Parents and students in Baltimore and the surrounding counties can now plan the 2026‑27 school year with confidence. The Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS), Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS), Baltimore County Public Schools (BCoPS) and Howard County Public Schools (HCPS) have all published their official calendars, first‑day start dates, holiday closures and back‑to‑school events.
Key dates for the 2026‑27 school year
Baltimore City Public Schools
First day of classes: Monday, August 24, 2026.
Labor Day holiday (school closed): Monday, September 7, 2026.
Back‑to‑School Family Learning Night: Monday, September 28, 5–7 p.m.
Anne Arundel County Public Schools
First day of classes: Monday, August 24, 2026.
Labor Day holiday: Monday, September 7, 2026.
Back‑to‑School Nights: Vary by school; dates are available on the district website.
Baltimore County Public Schools
First day of classes: Monday, August 31, 2026.
First full day of kindergarten (including transportation): Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
Labor Day holiday: Monday, September 7, 2026.
Back‑to‑School Nights: Vary by school; dates are posted online.
Howard County Public Schools
First day of classes: Monday, August 24, 2026.
Kindergarten half‑day gradual entrance: Tuesday, September 1 and Wednesday, September 2, 2026.
Kindergarten first full day: Thursday, September 3, 2026.
Pre‑kindergarten half‑day gradual entrance: Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
Labor Day holiday: Monday, September 7, 2026.
Back‑to‑School Nights: Vary by school; dates are listed on the district portal.
Resources for families
Each district has made downloadable handbooks and one‑page calendars available in both English and Spanish. These resources include transportation guidelines, student conduct codes and contact information for school administrators. Parents can access them through the respective district websites:
- BCPS 2026‑27 Student Handbook and bilingual calendar
- AACPS 2026‑27 Student Handbook and bilingual calendar
- BCoPS Student Code of Conduct and Transportation Handbook
- HCPS Parent‑Student Handbook and bilingual calendar
Why the information matters
Knowing the exact start dates and holiday closures helps families coordinate work schedules, childcare arrangements and religious observances. The back‑to‑school nights provide an opportunity for parents to meet teachers, learn about curriculum expectations and discover ways to support their children’s academic success.
School districts across Maryland have emphasized that the August start is typical for the region, contrasting with some parts of the country that begin classes later in September or even in July. This consistency allows families to plan summer activities, vacations and community events with confidence.
Looking ahead
Beyond the calendar, districts will continue to share updates on health protocols, extracurricular programs and any adjustments to transportation routes. Parents are encouraged to subscribe to district newsletters and follow official social‑media channels for real‑time information.
With the calendars now public, Baltimore-area families can focus on the excitement of a new school year, confident that the logistical details are in place to support a smooth transition for students, teachers and the broader community.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
