New York City's Department of Education has confirmed that all public schools will be closed for two days in the upcoming week. Students will have a break on Tuesday, September 23, and Wednesday, September 24, in observance of the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah.
The closure comes just a few weeks into the 2025-2026 academic year. Classes are scheduled to resume for all students on Thursday, September 25, following the two-day observance.
Key Takeaways
- Closure Dates: All NYC public schools will be closed on Tuesday, Sept. 23, and Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025.
- Reason for Closure: The schools are closing for the observance of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
- Classes Resume: Students and staff are expected to return to school on Thursday, Sept. 25.
- Next Holiday: The next scheduled day off for students is Thursday, October 2, for Yom Kippur.
Details of the September School Closure
The New York City school calendar marks a brief pause in classroom instruction for the city's vast student population. The scheduled break affects all public schools across the five boroughs, providing students and staff with a two-day recess early in the school year.
This closure aligns with the timing of Rosh Hashanah, a significant holiday in the Jewish faith. The observance officially begins at sundown on Monday, September 22, and concludes at nightfall on Wednesday, September 24.
According to the official Department of Education calendar, this is the first multi-day holiday break since the school year began. Families are advised to consult the official school calendar for planning purposes throughout the academic year.
NYC's Diverse School Calendar
New York City's public school system is one of the most diverse in the world. The school calendar reflects this diversity by observing holidays from various cultures and religions, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Diwali, and Lunar New Year, alongside federal holidays. This policy aims to accommodate the city's multicultural student body.
Understanding the Significance of Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, a two-day celebration that marks the beginning of the High Holy Days. The name translates from Hebrew to "head of the year." It is a period of both celebration and introspection.
The holiday is a time for prayer, family gatherings, and festive meals. It encourages reflection on the past year and looking forward to the new one with hope. Traditions often include attending services at a synagogue and hearing the sounding of the shofar, a ram's horn.
For many families, it is a deeply meaningful time dedicated to faith, community, and personal growth. The school closure allows students and staff who observe the holiday to participate fully in these traditions without academic conflict.
Did You Know?
The decision to close New York City public schools for Rosh Hashanah dates back to the 1960s. The policy was enacted to acknowledge the city's large Jewish population and ensure that students would not have to choose between their religious obligations and their education.
Upcoming Breaks in the School Calendar
Following the Rosh Hashanah closure, students will not have to wait long for their next day off. The school calendar indicates another holiday observance in the following week.
Schools will be closed again on Thursday, October 2, for Yom Kippur. Known as the Day of Atonement, it is considered the holiest day in Judaism and concludes the High Holy Days that begin with Rosh Hashanah.
Looking Ahead to Winter Recess
For those planning further into the semester, the calendar outlines several more days off before the extended winter break. Before winter recess begins on December 24, students and staff will have an additional six scheduled holidays. These dates typically include observances such as Election Day, Veterans Day, and the Thanksgiving break.
A detailed breakdown of upcoming school holidays before the new year includes:
- October 2: Yom Kippur
- November 4: Election Day (staff development day, no students)
- November 11: Veterans Day
- November 27-28: Thanksgiving Recess
The winter recess is scheduled to start on Wednesday, December 24, marking the final school break of the 2025 calendar year. It is crucial for parents and guardians to stay informed about these dates for childcare and travel arrangements. The complete and official 2025-2026 school calendar is available on the NYC Department of Education website.