School year planning
New Jersey School Calendar
New Jersey schools typically start in the first week of September, typically just after Labor Day and wrap up mid-to-late 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?
the first week of September, typically just after Labor Day
When does school end?
mid-to-late June
Winter break
roughly two weeks from just before Christmas through early January
Spring break
one week around Easter or in mid-April
About the New Jersey school year
New Jersey requires a minimum of 180 school days and does not set a mandatory start date, though essentially all districts begin in the first week of September after Labor Day. The state's urban districts — Newark, Jersey City, Elizabeth, and Paterson — often observe additional religious and cultural holidays (including Eid al-Fitr, Diwali, and Yom Kippur) that suburban districts may not. Newark is by far the largest district by enrollment. New Jersey also mandates a statewide Professional Development Day each October.
Largest school districts in New Jersey
- Newark Public Schools
- Elizabeth Public Schools
- Jersey City Public Schools
- Paterson Public Schools
- Trenton Public Schools
Count down to the first day of school
Add an Outside countdown widget to your iPhone home screen and get reminders for the first day, last day, and every school break.
Get the Free Countdown AppFrequently Asked Questions
When does school start in New Jersey?
Most New Jersey public schools begin in the first week of September, the day after or the week following Labor Day. The exact date is set by each local district.
When is spring break in New Jersey?
Spring break is typically one week around the Easter holiday in late March or mid-April, though some districts schedule it independently of the Easter calendar.
When does the school year end in New Jersey?
Most New Jersey public schools conclude in mid-to-late June, reflecting the 180-day requirement and the potential for weather-related closures extending the calendar.
How long is winter break in New Jersey schools?
Winter break is generally about two weeks, covering the period from just before Christmas through the first few days of January.
Want to count down the days? Browse school countdowns or see school calendars for every state.
Home Screen Widgets
Beautiful countdown widgets that sit right on your home screen.
Lock Screen Widgets
See your countdown without even unlocking your phone.
Live Activities
Real-time countdown updates on your Dynamic Island.