The question “Is there school today?” is one many parents and students across the United States are asking this morning. As of Tuesday, November 11, 2025, most public schools nationwide are closed in observance of Veterans Day, a federal holiday honoring U.S. military veterans. However, there are some exceptions depending on school district calendars, private institutions, and local decisions.
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Why Most Schools Are Closed Today
Veterans Day is a federal holiday, which means government offices, post offices, and most public institutions — including schools — are closed. Many school districts plan this day off months in advance, incorporating it into their official academic calendars.
The purpose of the closure is to allow students and families to recognize and honor the service of America’s veterans. Many schools that are closed today will hold Veterans Day programs or assemblies earlier in the week to help students learn about the holiday’s significance.
However, not all schools follow the same schedule. While public schools are mostly closed, some private and charter schools remain open depending on their unique academic calendars.
School Closures by Region
Since education systems operate under local control, whether there is school today varies slightly from state to state. Here’s a general overview:
- Northeast (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts):
Most schools are closed. Major city districts like New York City and Boston observe Veterans Day as a non-instructional day. - Midwest (Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin):
Nearly all public schools are closed. However, some charter schools and small private academies may hold classes. - South (Texas, Florida, Georgia, Alabama):
Veterans Day is recognized across the South, with most public schools closed. A few independent schools may remain open but often with early dismissals. - West (California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada):
School closures are widespread, particularly in California. Many districts use the day for teacher workshops or to give students a break during mid-semester. - Mountain States (Colorado, Utah, Arizona):
Some districts close, while others may opt for an early release schedule or online learning day.
In short: while there are exceptions, the majority of public schools in all 50 states do not have classes today.
Private Schools and Charter Schools
Private and charter schools often operate on customized academic calendars that don’t always align with public school systems. Some of these institutions remain open today, especially if they observe alternate holidays throughout the year.
If your child attends a private or charter school, it’s best to check directly with the school’s communication system — such as parent portals, emails, or automated alerts — to confirm their status for today.
Many private schools that are open use the day to teach lessons about patriotism, civic responsibility, and U.S. history, integrating Veterans Day into their educational plans rather than observing it as a full closure.
Colleges and Universities
When it comes to higher education, the situation is more mixed.
Many public universities (such as state universities) are closed today in observance of Veterans Day. However, some private colleges and technical schools continue operations, sometimes holding optional classes or study sessions.
Campus offices, libraries, and dining halls may have limited hours even if classes are canceled. Students are encouraged to check their institution’s website or student portal for detailed schedules.
What About Virtual Learning and After-School Activities?
In districts that have adopted hybrid or flexible learning schedules, some online sessions might still take place today. However, participation is usually optional or tied to independent study.
Extracurricular activities such as sports practices, tutoring programs, or music rehearsals are often canceled or rescheduled to allow students and staff to observe the holiday. Parents should check local school announcements or district social media for updates.
How to Check If Your Local School Is Open Today
If you’re unsure whether your child’s school is open today, here are a few quick ways to find out:
- Check your school district’s official website – Most post closure alerts on the homepage.
- Look for text or email notifications – Many schools send out morning alerts through automated systems.
- Follow local news channels – They typically list public school closures during morning broadcasts.
- Call the school office or district hotline – A recorded message will often confirm if schools are open or closed.
- Review the academic calendar – Each district releases a yearly schedule outlining all holidays and breaks.
Why Veterans Day Is Observed as a School Holiday
Veterans Day is more than just a day off. It’s a time set aside to honor and thank those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Many school systems use the week leading up to November 11 to host events such as:
- Student essays and art contests about veterans
- Guest visits from local veterans to speak about their service
- Flag-raising ceremonies and patriotic assemblies
By observing the day as a holiday, schools give students an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of service, sacrifice, and national pride.
Schools Open Today: The Exceptions
While most schools are closed, a few exceptions exist. Some states and districts that use a year-round school calendar or balanced schedule may hold classes today to adjust for longer winter or spring breaks later in the year.
Additionally:
- Charter networks with flexible academic programs sometimes operate on federal holidays.
- Private academies may hold “patriotic programming days” instead of closing.
- Daycare centers and preschools often stay open even when public schools are closed, though hours may be limited.
If your child attends one of these institutions, check directly with administrators before assuming closure.
Public Services Impacting Students
Since Veterans Day is a federal holiday, the following are closed or limited today:
- U.S. Post Offices
- Most banks
- Federal and state offices
- DMV branches
- Some public transportation services (operating on holiday schedules)
While schools are closed, parents should note these service changes, especially when planning errands or childcare around the day.
Looking Ahead: When Schools Reopen
For most districts, schools will reopen on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, with regular schedules resuming. Students can expect normal classes, transportation, and activities.
Districts that held classes today may offer a compensatory day off later in the academic year, depending on local scheduling needs.
Final Word: Double-Check Before You Go
If you’re wondering, “Is there school today?”, the short answer for most Americans is no — schools are closed in observance of Veterans Day.
Still, because each district controls its own calendar, it’s best to verify through official school communications or trusted local news outlets before sending your child to class.
Whether your school is open or closed, take a moment today to honor the veterans whose service allows all of us the freedom to learn, work, and live in peace. Share how your district is observing the day in the comments below and stay informed for tomorrow’s updates.