California School Start Dates 2024-2025: A Comprehensive Guide
California’s 2024-2025 academic year generally commences on September 3, 2024, though district-specific dates vary; detailed PDF calendars are available online for precise scheduling.
Overview of the 2024-2025 School Calendar
The 2024-2025 California school year introduces a notable shift with the two-year calendar transition, aiming to conclude the first semester before the winter break—a change beginning this academic cycle. Most districts initiate instruction around September 3, 2024, but significant variations exist. Detailed PDF versions of district calendars, readily accessible on their websites and the California Department of Education portal, provide precise dates for holidays, breaks, and professional development days.
Veterans Day on November 11, 2024, marks a state-wide school closure, as does the Thanksgiving break from November 21-28, 2025. Winter break dates differ by district, necessitating consultation of individual calendars. The transition impacts high school schedules particularly, with the aim of improved student focus and academic performance. Accessing these PDF resources is crucial for parents and students to effectively plan the academic year.
Key Dates for the Academic Year
The 2024-2025 California academic year is anchored by several pivotal dates. The general first day of school is September 3, 2024, though individual district PDF calendars confirm specific start dates. November 11, 2024, is observed as Veterans Day, resulting in a state-wide school closure. Thanksgiving break spans November 21-28, 2025, offering an extended respite. Winter and Spring break dates are district-dependent, necessitating review of localized calendars.
The two-year calendar transition influences these dates, aiming for semester completion before winter break. Detailed PDF documents, available from districts and the California Department of Education, outline crucial dates like back-to-school nights, grading period endings, and professional development days. These resources are essential for families to navigate the academic schedule effectively and plan accordingly throughout the year.

Specific School District Start Dates
California districts exhibit varied start dates; PDF calendars from LAUSD, San Diego, and San Francisco reveal unique schedules for the 2024-2025 year.
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Start Date
The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) instructional school year for 2024-2025 officially begins on Monday, August 12, 2024, for students. However, it’s crucial to consult the complete LAUSD calendar, often available as a downloadable PDF document on their official website, for a comprehensive view of all key dates.
This PDF calendar details not only the first day but also professional development days for teachers preceding the student start date, as well as important milestones throughout the year. These include grading period endings, holidays, and scheduled breaks. The LAUSD calendar is meticulously planned to maximize instructional time while accommodating essential breaks for students and staff. Accessing the official PDF ensures parents and students have accurate information regarding the school year’s schedule, allowing for effective planning and preparation. The detailed calendar is a vital resource for the entire LAUSD community.
San Diego Unified School District Start Date
For the 2024-2025 academic year, the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) is scheduled to commence instruction on Monday, August 19, 2024. Families are strongly encouraged to download the official SDUSD calendar, typically provided as a PDF, from the district’s website to access a complete overview of important dates.
This comprehensive PDF document outlines crucial information beyond the initial start date, including professional development days for educators, holiday observances resulting in school closures, and the timing of grading periods. The SDUSD calendar is designed to balance instructional time with necessary breaks for both students and staff. Regularly checking the official PDF version ensures accurate planning for school-related events and commitments. The readily available calendar serves as a central resource for all members of the San Diego Unified School District community.
San Francisco Unified School District Start Date
The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) is set to begin the 2024-2025 academic year on Monday, August 19, 2024. Parents and students can find a detailed school year calendar, often available as a downloadable PDF, on the SFUSD website. This PDF resource provides a complete schedule of important dates throughout the year.
Beyond the initial start date, the calendar details crucial information such as professional development days, holidays leading to school closures, and key assessment periods. SFUSD’s calendar is structured to maximize learning opportunities while accommodating necessary breaks. Accessing the official PDF version ensures families have the most up-to-date information for planning. Regularly consulting the calendar helps families stay informed about school events and deadlines, fostering a successful academic year for all students within the district.
Long Beach Unified School District Start Date
The Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) will officially kick off the 2024-2025 school year on September 3, 2024. Families seeking a comprehensive overview of the academic timeline can readily access the LBUSD calendar, typically offered as a downloadable PDF document on the district’s official website. This PDF provides a detailed breakdown of all significant dates.
The LBUSD calendar outlines not only the first day of school but also crucial dates like holidays, breaks, and professional development days for staff. It’s a vital resource for parents and students to plan accordingly. The PDF format allows for easy printing and offline access. Staying informed through the official LBUSD calendar ensures families are prepared for the academic year, maximizing student success and minimizing disruptions due to unforeseen school closures or schedule changes.
Anaheim Union High School District Start Date
For the 2024-2025 academic year, students in the Anaheim Union High School District will return to classes on August 26, 2024. The district provides a detailed school calendar, conveniently available as a PDF download from their official website. This document is an essential resource for families planning for the year ahead, offering a clear overview of important dates and events.
The Anaheim Union High School District calendar PDF includes information on holidays, breaks – including Thanksgiving and winter recess – and key milestones like back-to-school nights and final exam schedules. Accessing this PDF ensures parents and students are well-informed about the academic timeline. Regularly checking the district website for updates to the calendar is recommended, as unforeseen circumstances can occasionally necessitate adjustments to the published dates.

Calendar Variations Across California
California districts exhibit diverse start dates, detailed in individual PDF calendars; some begin in August, while others commence in September 2024.
Early Start vs. Late Start Calendars
California school districts employ both early and late start calendars, impacting the academic timeline significantly. Early start calendars, often found in Southern California, may begin in August, allowing for a longer first semester concluding before Winter Break. Conversely, late start calendars, more prevalent in Northern California, typically commence after Labor Day, often in September.
These variations are detailed within each district’s published 2024-2025 PDF calendar. The two-year calendar transition aims to align the first semester with the break, influencing these choices. Factors like collective bargaining agreements and community preferences also contribute to the decision. Understanding these differences is crucial for families planning around school schedules, as specific dates vary widely across the state. Accessing the relevant district PDF is essential for accurate information.
Impact of the Two-Year Calendar Transition
California’s shift to a two-year calendar cycle, beginning with the 2024-2025 academic year, aims to better distribute instructional time and align the first semester with the Winter Break. This transition, detailed in district PDF calendars, allows for a more balanced academic experience, reducing student fatigue and improving retention.
Previously, some districts faced challenges with a truncated first semester. The new structure provides a more substantial period of instruction before the holiday recess. While the overall number of instructional days remains consistent, the timing is adjusted. Parents can find specific implementation details and the complete 2024-2025 schedule within their local school district’s downloadable PDF calendar, outlining key dates and adjustments resulting from this statewide initiative.
Differences Between Elementary, Middle, and High School Start Dates
While the statewide general start date for California schools in 2024-2025 is around September 3rd, variations exist between elementary, middle, and high schools, as detailed in individual district PDF calendars. Some districts stagger start dates to ease logistical challenges like transportation and facility usage.
Often, high schools may begin slightly later than elementary schools, allowing for scheduling flexibility with block periods and extracurricular activities. Middle schools frequently align with elementary schedules. Parents should consult their specific school’s PDF calendar, available on district websites, for precise dates. These calendars clearly outline the unique start and end times, as well as important events, for each school level within the district, ensuring a smooth transition for all students.

Important Dates & Holidays
Key dates include September 3, 2024, for the first day, November 11, 2024, for Veterans Day, and November 21-28, 2025, for Thanksgiving break.
First Day of School ⎯ September 3, 2024
California’s public schools are largely slated to begin the 2024-2025 academic year on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. However, it’s crucial to remember that this date serves as a general guideline, and significant variations exist across the state’s diverse school districts. Many districts publish detailed instructional school calendars, often available as PDF documents on their websites, outlining specific start dates, holidays, and important events.
The transition to a two-year calendar system impacts this date, aiming to conclude the fall semester before the winter break. Parents and students should consult their individual district’s calendar for confirmation. Accessing these PDF resources ensures accurate planning for the upcoming school year, avoiding any scheduling conflicts or missed important dates. Detailed information regarding specific district schedules is readily available online.
Veterans Day ⎯ November 11, 2024 (School Closure)
California public schools will observe Veterans Day on Monday, November 11, 2024, with a complete closure of all campuses and administrative offices. This day honors the men and women who have served in the United States armed forces, providing a day of remembrance and gratitude. School district calendars, often available as downloadable PDF files on district websites, clearly mark this as a non-instructional day.
Parents and students should refer to their specific district’s 2024-2025 school calendar – typically found in PDF format – to confirm this closure and plan accordingly. These calendars also detail other important holidays and breaks throughout the academic year. Ensuring access to the official district PDF provides accurate information regarding school schedules and operational status for Veterans Day and beyond.
Thanksgiving Break ⎯ November 21-28, 2025 (No School)
California schools will be closed for Thanksgiving Break from November 21st through November 28th, 2025, offering students and staff a full week to celebrate with family and friends. This extended break is a standard feature of most California school district calendars, readily accessible as PDF downloads from individual district websites.
Families planning travel or activities during this period should consult their district’s official 2024-2025 calendar – often a PDF document – to verify these dates and any related information. These calendars provide a comprehensive overview of the academic year, including holidays, professional development days, and important deadlines. Accessing the official PDF ensures accurate planning for the Thanksgiving holiday and the resumption of classes afterward.
Winter Break ⎯ Dates Vary by District
California’s Winter Break dates are not uniform statewide; they differ significantly between school districts. While most districts offer a break spanning approximately two weeks, the exact start and end dates are determined at the local level and are typically detailed in each district’s published 2024-2025 school calendar, often available as a downloadable PDF.
Parents and students should consult their specific district’s PDF calendar to confirm the precise dates for Winter Break. These calendars outline the last day of classes before the break and the return date following the holidays. Accessing the official PDF document ensures accurate planning for travel and holiday celebrations, avoiding any scheduling conflicts with the academic year. Districts publish these calendars to provide clarity and facilitate family arrangements.
Spring Break ⎯ Dates Vary by District
Similar to Winter Break, California school districts exhibit considerable variation in their Spring Break schedules for the 2024-2025 academic year. There isn’t a standardized statewide break; instead, each district independently sets its dates, which are usually outlined in their official school calendar, frequently available as a PDF document.
Families are strongly advised to review their local district’s PDF calendar to ascertain the specific dates for Spring Break. These calendars clearly indicate the commencement and conclusion of the break, aiding in travel planning and other arrangements. The PDF format ensures easy access and reliable information regarding the academic schedule. Checking the official source—the district’s PDF calendar—is crucial for accurate planning and avoiding disruptions to student attendance.

Resources for Finding Specific School Calendars
Locate detailed 2024-2025 school calendars in PDF format via the California Department of Education website or individual district websites for precise dates.
California Department of Education Website
The California Department of Education (CDE) website serves as a central repository for statewide educational information, including links to individual school district websites. While the CDE doesn’t publish a single, comprehensive 2024-2025 school calendar in PDF format covering all districts, it provides resources to easily navigate to each district’s specific calendar.
Users can typically find district websites listed alphabetically or through a search function on the CDE site. These district websites are where the official PDF versions of the school calendars are published, detailing important dates like the first day of school, holidays, breaks, and professional development days. The CDE website also offers guidance on the two-year calendar transition impacting semester end dates, allowing for winter break before semester completion. Regularly checking the CDE and your local district’s website is recommended for the most up-to-date information.
Individual School District Websites
For the most accurate and detailed 2024-2025 school calendar information, including downloadable PDF versions, individual school district websites are the primary source. Districts like Los Angeles Unified (LAUSD), San Diego Unified, and San Francisco Unified publish comprehensive calendars outlining specific start dates, holidays, and grading period endings.
These PDF calendars often include details about teacher professional development days, back-to-school nights, and other important events. Variations exist between districts, so consulting your specific district’s website is crucial. The transition to a two-year calendar impacts semester timing, with many districts aiming to conclude the first semester before winter break. Regularly visiting your district’s website ensures you have the latest updates and a clear understanding of the academic schedule;
Online School Calendar Aggregators
Several online school calendar aggregators compile 2024-2025 school start dates for various California districts, often providing downloadable PDF versions. These platforms can be helpful for a quick overview, but always verify information with the official district website. While convenient, aggregated calendars may not always reflect the most up-to-date changes or district-specific nuances.
These resources often categorize calendars by county or district, simplifying the search process. Remember that the two-year calendar transition influences semester and quarter timings, so ensure the aggregator’s data is current. Utilizing these tools alongside official district PDFs provides a comprehensive understanding of the academic year, including holidays and important dates. Cross-referencing is key for accuracy.

California State Preschool (CSPS) Calendar
The CSPS 2024-2025 year begins with staff development on August 16, 2024, and student instruction commences on August 19, 2024; PDF details available.
CSPS Staff Professional Development Day ౼ August 16, 2024
California State Preschools (CSPS) prioritize dedicated time for educator preparation before students arrive. August 16, 2024, is specifically designated as a Staff Professional Development Day across the state’s CSPS programs. This crucial day allows teachers and staff to engage in training, collaborative planning, and review of curriculum updates, ensuring a high-quality learning environment.
The focus often includes early childhood development best practices, implementation of new educational guidelines, and strategies for supporting diverse learners. Detailed information regarding specific training topics and schedules can be found within individual CSPS program PDF calendars, often accessible on district websites. This preparatory day is fundamental to a successful start to the 2024-2025 academic year, benefiting both educators and the young children they serve. Accessing the complete CSPS calendar in PDF format provides a comprehensive overview of all important dates.
First Day of School for CSPS ⎯ August 19, 2024
Marking the official launch of the 2024-2025 academic year for young learners, August 19, 2024, signifies the First Day of School for California State Preschools (CSPS). This date welcomes children back to a nurturing and stimulating educational setting, following the preparatory professional development day for staff. Parents and guardians should consult their specific CSPS program’s calendar, often available as a downloadable PDF, for detailed schedules and any program-specific instructions.
The first day typically involves a gentle introduction to the classroom, opportunities for socialization, and engaging activities designed to ease the transition for students. Detailed information, including arrival procedures and required materials, is usually outlined in the CSPS program’s PDF calendar. Accessing this PDF ensures families are well-prepared for a smooth and positive start to the school year, fostering a strong foundation for early learning.

California Virtual Academies Calendar
California Virtual Academies’ 2024-2025 schedule details quarter starts, including November 11, 2025, and Thanksgiving break; PDF versions are readily accessible.
Start of Quarter 2 ⎯ November 11, 2025
November 11, 2025, marks the commencement of Quarter 2 for California Virtual Academies, coinciding with Veterans Day, a designated school closure. This date signifies a pivotal shift in the academic schedule, transitioning students into the second phase of learning for the 2024-2025 academic year. Detailed school calendars, often available as PDF documents on district websites, provide a comprehensive overview of all key dates, including holidays and breaks.
Parents and students can access these calendars to effectively plan for academic milestones and ensure timely completion of coursework. The alignment of Quarter 2’s start with a national holiday underscores the importance of recognizing and honoring veterans while maintaining a structured educational timeline. Accessing the official PDF calendar is crucial for accurate date confirmation.
Thanksgiving Break (No School) ⎯ November 21-28, 2025
California schools, including California Virtual Academies, will observe Thanksgiving Break from November 21st to 28th, 2025, with no school sessions scheduled during this period. This extended break provides students and families with valuable time for rest, reflection, and celebration. Detailed school calendars, frequently distributed as PDF files on individual district websites, clearly outline these non-instructional days.
It’s essential to consult these official calendars for precise dates and any potential variations across different school districts. Planning ahead using the PDF calendar allows families to make necessary arrangements for childcare or travel. The Thanksgiving break represents a significant pause in the academic year, fostering a sense of community and gratitude before the final push towards the winter holidays.

Understanding Semester and Quarter Systems
California schools utilize semester or quarter systems; PDF calendars detail specific start and end dates for each, impacting academic scheduling throughout 2024-2025.
Fall Semester Start and End Dates
The fall semester in California generally kicks off in late August or early September 2024, with precise dates differing significantly between individual school districts. Many districts, including Los Angeles Unified, begin around September 3rd, though some may initiate classes slightly earlier. Detailed PDF versions of school calendars, readily available on district websites and the California Department of Education portal, provide exact commencement dates.
The semester’s conclusion typically falls in mid-December for a winter break, though this also varies. The transition to a two-year calendar aims to conclude the fall semester before winter break, starting in 2024-2025. These PDF resources are crucial for parents and students to accurately plan for holidays and academic deadlines. Accessing these official calendars ensures alignment with specific school schedules.
Spring Semester Start and End Dates
The spring semester in California typically resumes in early to mid-January 2025, following the winter break. Exact start dates are, as with the fall semester, determined at the district level and are best confirmed through official school calendars. These calendars, often available as downloadable PDF documents on district websites, outline specific dates for each school within the system.
The spring semester generally extends through late May or early June, culminating in final exams and graduation ceremonies. The two-year calendar transition impacts these dates, potentially shifting the end of the semester slightly. Parents and students should consult the detailed PDF calendars for precise end-of-semester dates and important milestones. Accessing these resources ensures accurate planning for academic closures and events.
Quarter System Breakdown
For California schools operating on a quarter system, the academic year is divided into four distinct terms. The first quarter typically begins alongside the general school start date in September 2024, with subsequent quarters following roughly nine to ten-week intervals. Detailed PDF calendars, accessible via district websites, provide precise quarter start and end dates.
The second quarter often concludes before the winter break, aligning with the two-year calendar transition. The third quarter commences in January 2025, and the final quarter extends into May or June. These PDF resources are crucial for tracking assignment deadlines, exam schedules, and school events. Students and parents should regularly consult these calendars for accurate information regarding the quarter system’s specific timelines within their respective districts.