Port St. Lucie residents will not have regular school sessions for students on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, because St. Lucie County public schools will serve as voting precincts for the 2026 general election. The decision, reported by WPBF, aligns with a broader South Florida plan that designates certain school facilities as polling locations to accommodate eligible voters.

According to WPBF, the voting hours on election day run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. across the state. By closing schools to students, the county aims to provide ample space for voters while maintaining safety and order within the school campuses.

The WPBF list of South Florida districts shows a mixed approach: Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Monroe counties will hold a regular school day, while Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Broward, and Miami‑Dade counties will keep schools closed for students. The closure in St. Lucie County means that parents and guardians will need to arrange alternative childcare or supervision for school‑age children on election day.

County officials have emphasized that the use of school buildings as polling sites is a long‑standing practice intended to make voting more accessible, especially for families living near schools. The move is expected to reduce travel time for many voters, allowing them to cast ballots before or after typical work hours without needing to travel far from their neighborhoods.

What’s next: Voters in Port St. Lucie should verify their polling location ahead of time, as schools serving as precincts will post signage and staff on election day. Parents are encouraged to plan childcare arrangements early, and community organizations may offer temporary supervision options. The county will provide updates through its official website and local news outlets as the election approaches.

Sources: wpbf.com