School year planning
Alabama School Calendar
Alabama schools typically start in early to mid-August and wrap up mid-to-late May.
Districts set their own calendars, so use the dates below as a guide and confirm with your local school system.
When does school start?
early to mid-August
When does school end?
mid-to-late May
Winter break
roughly the last two weeks of December into early January
Spring break
one week in mid-to-late March
About the Alabama school year
Alabama districts set their own calendars but most begin in the first or second week of August, among the earlier starts in the South. The state requires 180 instructional days. Mobile County is the largest district by enrollment, followed by Jefferson County and Huntsville City. Weather makeup days are occasionally needed for severe storms or tornadoes, which can push the end date slightly later.
Largest school districts in Alabama
- Mobile County Schools
- Jefferson County Schools
- Huntsville City Schools
- Birmingham City Schools
- Tuscaloosa City Schools
Count down to the first day of school
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Get the Free Countdown AppFrequently Asked Questions
When does school start in Alabama?
Most Alabama public schools begin in early to mid-August, typically within the first two weeks of the month. Exact dates vary by district, so families should check with their local school system.
When is spring break in Alabama?
Spring break in Alabama public schools typically falls in mid-to-late March and lasts about one week, though specific dates differ by district.
When does the school year end in Alabama?
Most Alabama school districts wrap up the academic year in late May, generally in the final week of the month, depending on any makeup days needed for weather closures.
How long is winter break in Alabama schools?
Winter break in Alabama is typically about two weeks, spanning from just before Christmas through New Year's Day, with students returning to school in early January.
Want to count down the days? Browse school countdowns or see school calendars for every state.
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