School closures on Columbus Day vary by district

Columbus Day is here, and many of us are wondering: will schools be closed? It's a federal holiday, but local policies can vary widely. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening this year.

Federal and Local Observances

The recent shift in observance from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples' Day has added a layer of complexity to school closures. Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples' Day are celebrated on the same day, October 12th, 2026. However, Columbus Day being a federal holiday doesn't necessarily mean it's a school holiday.

Many schools fall into a gray area as some observe Columbus Day as a day off, while others do not. Some school districts celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day as a day of recognition and education, rather than a day off. Parents should check their local school calendars to ensure they are aware of the status of their child’s school on this day.

State-by-State Variations

School closure policies on Columbus Day vary by state and even by district. In states where Indigenous Peoples' Day is officially recognized, schools may be closed or may have altered schedules. For instance, schools in places like New York and San Francisco have traditionally observed the holiday.

In other states, the decision is left up to individual districts. Some districts might opt to close schools on Columbus Day, while others might not. Parents are advised to check with their local school districts to confirm whether schools will be closed on Columbus Day this year.

Parental Precautions

Given the recent controversy and confusion, parents are encouraged to exercise caution. School districts might close for Columbus Day or might remain open. The lack of uniform policy can lead to unexpected childcare needs and scheduling conflicts.

Here’s the thing: Some parents might be surprised to find their kids still have school today. For example, in some areas, schools are open as usual, while in others, they observe Indigenous Peoples' Day as a teacher workday instead of a holiday, meaning students stay home while teachers engage in professional development.

“Columbus Day falls on a Monday this year, so parents should check their local calendars to avoid unexpected childcare costs or scheduling conflicts.”

So, if you’re planning your day and wondering if the kids will be home or at school, make sure to double-check your district's policies before making plans.