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Dates to know for PCPS’ 2025/2026 school year

Whether you have students at Polk County Public Schools or you’re just planning around school breaks, keep these dates in mind.

July 31, 2025 • 
Connor Jacobson
A new lit sign for Southwest Middle School sits in front of its newly built, two-story administrative building. A US flag pole sits a few feet away from the sign.

The lights will soon go up at 120+ schools around Polk County.

Photo via Polk County Public Schools

It’s back-to-school season for Polk County Public Schools’ 117,000+ students. Whether you’re planning vacations or just trying to avoid school zone traffic, keep these important dates in mind this year. Pro tip: Private + charter schools use their own calendars.

Tuesday, Aug. 5 | K-8, middle, and high school orientation

Thursday, Aug. 7 | Elementary school orientation

Monday, Aug. 11 | First day of school

Monday, Nov. 24-Friday, Nov. 28 | Fall break

Monday, Dec. 22-Tuesday, Jan. 6 | Winter break

Monday, March 16-Friday, March 20 | Spring break

Friday, May 1-Thursday, May 28 | Graduation ceremonies

Thursday, May 28 | Last day of school

Bonus: Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday now lasts for all of August. That means no tax on certain clothing, shoes, school supplies, backpacks, learning aids, and personal computers. Score.

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