School year planning
Arkansas School Calendar
Arkansas schools typically start in mid-to-late August and wrap up late May to early June.
Districts set their own calendars, so use the dates below as a guide and confirm with your local school system.
When does school start?
mid-to-late August
When does school end?
late May to early June
Winter break
roughly two weeks from just before Christmas through New Year's Day
Spring break
one week in late March or early April
About the Arkansas school year
Arkansas requires 178 to 180 instructional days for students and 190 days for teachers (which includes professional development time). Most districts begin in the second or third week of August. State law provides a framework calendar, but individual districts set their own specific dates. Northwest Arkansas districts — including Springdale, the state's largest — have grown rapidly and reflect the region's diverse population. Occasional weather closures for ice storms may require makeup days.
Largest school districts in Arkansas
- Springdale School District
- Pulaski County Special School District
- Little Rock School District
- Fayetteville Public Schools
- Fort Smith Public 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 Arkansas?
Most Arkansas public schools begin in mid-to-late August, typically the second or third week of the month. Exact start dates are set by each local school district.
When is spring break in Arkansas?
Spring break in Arkansas public schools typically falls in late March or early April and lasts about one week. Some districts time it to align with Easter.
When does the school year end in Arkansas?
The school year in Arkansas generally concludes in late May or early June, depending on the district and any days added to make up weather-related closures.
How long is winter break in Arkansas schools?
Winter break in Arkansas is typically about two weeks, running from just before Christmas through New Year's Day, with students returning in early January.
Want to count down the days? Browse school countdowns or see school calendars for every state.
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