Newark, Maryland — February 17, 2026 — The Worcester County Board of Education adopted the 2026-2027 school system calendar at its meeting today.
The calendar, which can be viewed here and below, includes some important highlights for families to take note of:
First Day of School is August 31, 2026
A pre-Labor Day start was not a decision entered into lightly given our coastal community. Thorough discussions were had with State and local officials to ensure the school system had support to move forward in light of the late date of Labor Day this year.
Schools and Offices will be closed September 4 and 7 in observance of the Labor Day holiday weekend
Winter Break is from Monday, December 21, 2026 through Friday, January 1, 2027
Tentative Last Day of School is June 11, 2027
The calendar also pilots the use of staggered openings for conducting professional development. These days are as follows:
October 7: Elementary and High Schools are closed for students, all other schools open
January 13: Cedar Chapel Special School, Berlin Intermediate School and all middle schools closed for students, all other schools open
February 10: Elementary and High Schools are closed for students, all other schools open
March 10: Cedar Chapel Special School, Berlin Intermediate School and all middle schools closed for students, all other schools open
This pilot is designed to provide necessary PD for teachers and staff in a manner that is both conducive for professional learning but also addresses the operational challenges of early dismissals.
To view the presentation and the Board's discussion of the calendar, please view the meeting livestream below. (The below video should begin at time marker 3:16:00, which is the calendar agenda item.)