Is there school today NYC? As of Wednesday, February 25, 2026, New York City Public Schools are open for regular in-person instruction. The New York City Department of Education calendar for the 2025–2026 academic year lists February 25 as a standard instructional day, and no citywide closure or delay has been announced as of this morning.
Families across the five boroughs often search this question early in the day, especially during winter months. Today, however, NYC public schools are operating on their normal schedule.
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NYC Public Schools Status for February 25, 2026
New York City Public Schools, the largest school district in the United States, serve approximately 915,000 students across more than 1,800 schools. As of this date:
- Schools are open
- In-person instruction is scheduled as normal
- Yellow bus transportation is running on regular routes
- School breakfast and lunch programs are operating as usual
No emergency weather closure, delayed start, or remote learning shift has been issued citywide.
Why Families Search “Is There School Today NYC”
Search traffic for this question spikes during:
- Snowstorms
- Severe cold advisories
- Major rain or flooding
- Transit disruptions
- Public health alerts
- School holidays
Late February often brings winter weather concerns, so it’s common for parents and guardians to check early in the morning.
Despite seasonal weather patterns, no closure notice has been released for today.
NYC DOE 2025–2026 Calendar Overview
The official 2025–2026 NYC Public Schools calendar confirms that February 25, 2026, is not a scheduled holiday or recess day.
Here are key February dates from the calendar:
| Date | Status |
|---|---|
| February 16–20, 2026 | Midwinter Recess (Schools Closed) |
| February 23, 2026 | Schools Reopen |
| February 25, 2026 | Regular Instructional Day |
Students returned to classrooms on Monday, February 23, following Midwinter Recess. Today falls within a normal school week.
How NYC Decides School Closures
The Mayor of New York City makes the final decision regarding systemwide school closures. The Department of Education works closely with city agencies to assess conditions.
Officials evaluate:
- Snow accumulation forecasts
- Road safety conditions
- Public transit reliability
- School building safety
- Power outages
- Emergency alerts
New York City rarely closes schools due to snow compared to nearby suburban districts. The city’s reliance on public transportation and its dense infrastructure often allow schools to remain open during moderate winter weather.
What Happens If Schools Close?
If the city announces a closure, families receive notifications through multiple channels:
- NYC Public Schools website updates
- Official social media accounts
- Text and email alerts via NYC Schools Account
- Local television and radio broadcasts
- 311 information line
On closure days, after-school programs and PSAL activities are typically canceled as well.
However, none of those alerts have been issued for today.
Weather Conditions on February 25, 2026
As of this morning, no severe weather emergency has triggered a school shutdown. Winter conditions remain typical for late February in New York City.
Historically, NYC schools remain open unless snowfall creates unsafe travel conditions or city agencies declare an emergency.
Today’s operations remain unaffected.
NYC Public Schools at a Glance
New York City Public Schools include:
- Elementary schools
- Middle schools
- High schools
- District 75 programs
- Charter schools (operate independently but often follow similar closure patterns)
The system serves students in:
- Manhattan
- Brooklyn
- Queens
- The Bronx
- Staten Island
All boroughs are following the regular academic schedule today.
Transportation and School Services Today
School buses are running on standard morning and afternoon routes. Public transit remains available for students who rely on subways and buses.
Additional services operating normally include:
- Breakfast programs
- Lunch programs
- Special education services
- School-based health centers
- Counseling and guidance services
Attendance policies remain in effect for the day.
Attendance Expectations
Because schools are open, students are expected to attend unless they have an excused absence.
Valid reasons for excused absences include:
- Illness
- Medical appointments
- Religious observances
- Family emergencies
Parents should follow standard reporting procedures if a student cannot attend.
Midwinter Recess Has Ended
Many families ask, “Is there school today NYC?” shortly after holiday breaks. Midwinter Recess ran from February 16 through February 20 this year.
Classes resumed on Monday, February 23.
Today marks the third instructional day since students returned from the break.
Remote Learning Policy
New York City no longer automatically shifts to remote learning for minor weather events. Full-day closures remain the primary response when severe conditions occur.
At this time:
- No remote instruction has been announced
- No hybrid schedule has been activated
- No emergency policy changes have been issued
Students should report to school in person.
Safety Measures in Place
School buildings follow standard safety procedures during winter months. Custodial teams monitor entrances, clear snow or ice if needed, and maintain safe access to facilities.
City agencies coordinate to keep sidewalks and bus routes accessible.
Parents are encouraged to:
- Dress children appropriately for cold weather
- Allow extra commute time if needed
- Monitor official NYC Public Schools communication channels
What to Monitor Throughout the Day
While schools are open this morning, weather or emergency situations can evolve. Families should stay aware of:
- Updated city alerts
- Transit changes
- School-specific messages from principals
As of now, no midday closure or early dismissal has been announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are NYC public schools open today?
Yes. As of February 25, 2026, schools are open for regular instruction.
Is there a delayed start?
No delayed start has been announced.
Are after-school programs running?
Yes. After-school activities remain scheduled unless individual schools issue separate notices.
Is today a holiday?
No. February 25 is not a holiday on the 2025–2026 academic calendar.
Why NYC Rarely Closes Schools
New York City operates differently than many districts across the country. The city’s public transit system allows students and staff to commute even when snow falls.
School closures typically occur only during:
- Major snowstorms
- Declared states of emergency
- Widespread power outages
- Extreme safety risks
None of those conditions apply today.
Final Confirmation
To directly answer the question many families are asking: Yes, there is school today in NYC.
All city public schools remain open on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Instruction continues under the regular academic calendar.
If you found this update helpful, share it with other NYC families and check back for the latest school status updates anytime conditions change.
