A Blueprint for Academic Excellence
The PGCPS 2024–2025 academic calendar serves as the vital framework for one of the nation’s largest and most diverse school districts. Designed to support the “Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” this year’s schedule balances rigorous instructional blocks with strategic professional development and well-earned breaks. From the first bells ringing in late August to the final celebrations in mid-June, the calendar provides a consistent rhythm that allows students to excel while ensuring families and staff have the clarity needed to plan for a successful year.
Understanding the PG County School Year

PG County schools operate on a traditional academic schedule, typically starting in late August and ending in mid-June. The structured calendar includes designated breaks, holidays, and professional development days to balance instruction and teacher training.
First Day of School: August 26, 2024
Last Day of School: June 13, 2025
The structured academic year ensures students receive consistent instruction while providing teachers time for curriculum planning and professional development.
Breaks and Holidays in PG County School Calendar 2024-2025
The school year includes several scheduled breaks and holidays observed by the district.
| Holiday/Break | Date(s) |
| Labor Day | September 2, 2024 (No School) |
| Yom Kippur | October 3, 2024 (No School) |
| Veterans Day | November 11, 2024 (No School) |
| Thanksgiving Break | November 28-29, 2024 |
| Winter Break | December 23, 2024 – January 1, 2025 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | January 20, 2025 (No School) |
| Spring Break | April 14-21, 2025 |
| Memorial Day | May 26, 2025 (No School) |
Teacher Workdays and Professional Development
| Professional Development Days | Date(s) |
| Teacher Preparation Days | August 19-23, 2024 |
| Mid-Year Teacher Workday | January 2, 2025 |
| End-of-Year Planning | June 16, 2025 |
Extracurricular and School Events
- Athletics: Football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, and other sports.
- Fine Arts: Music programs, band concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.
- STEM and Science Fairs: Hands-on learning experiences promoting innovation.
- Cultural and Community Events: Black History Month programs, Hispanic Heritage celebrations, and community service initiatives.
Emergency Closures and Makeup Days
| Event | Details |
| Emergency School Closures | Communicated through district announcements. |
| Makeup Days | Added as necessary for lost instructional time. |
Cultural Observances and Specialty Pathways
A unique strength of Prince George’s County is its commitment to inclusivity and specialized learning, which is reflected directly in the academic calendar:
Religious Diversity & Inclusion: PGCPS stands out for its inclusive holiday schedule. The 2024–2025 calendar officially recognizes a wide array of cultural and religious observances, including Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, Diwali, and Eid al-Fitr. These dates are marked with an asterisk to ensure no major school events or exams are scheduled, allowing students to honor their traditions without academic penalty.
Specialty Program Milestones: For families involved in the district’s STEM, Creative and Performing Arts (CPA), or Spanish/French Immersion programs, the calendar includes critical “audition” and “lottery” windows. These application periods typically open in the fall, making the October–December calendar months crucial for students looking to enter specialized academic pathways.
Orientation for Success: Before the official start on August 26, the district utilizes a Student Orientation Day (August 23). This provides a “soft start” for students transitioning to middle or high school, ensuring they can navigate their new campuses and schedules before the full student body returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the PG County school year?
August 26, 2024, to June 13, 2025.
When is winter break for PG County students?
Winter break on December 23, 2024, and ends on January 1, 2025.
Are there early release days in PG County schools?
Yes, some schools may have early release days for teacher planning. Contact your school for details.
Where can I find the official PG County school calendar?
The Prince George’s County Public Schools website provides the official calendar.
What happens if schools close due to inclement weather?
Makeup days may be scheduled to ensure students meet required instructional hours.
