Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a significant federal holiday in the United States. It’s a day dedicated to honoring the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Many people expect schools and businesses to be closed on this important day, similar to other federal holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. However, it might be surprising to find out that schools are sometimes open on Veterans Day. This leads to the question: Why Is There School On Veterans Day Today?
Canton Middle School in Baltimore, Maryland, showcasing typical school architecture and grounds, taken in May 2002.
The answer isn’t straightforward and often depends on local decisions. While Veterans Day is a federal holiday, the decision to close schools often falls to the local school districts and boards of education. In Maryland, for example, as highlighted by the Maryland State Archives, local boards of education have the authority to determine the specific dates for holiday observances in their public schools. This means that even if the federal and state governments recognize Veterans Day as a holiday, individual school systems can decide whether or not to close schools.
Several factors can influence a school district’s decision to remain open on Veterans Day. One key consideration is the number of instructional days required in a school year. School districts carefully plan their calendars to meet these requirements, and closing for every federal holiday might shorten the instructional time. In some cases, schools might choose to stay open on Veterans Day but incorporate observances and educational activities within the school day to honor veterans. These activities can range from special assemblies, classroom discussions about the meaning of Veterans Day, to inviting veterans to speak to students.
Another reason schools might be open is the distinction between federal and state holidays. While Veterans Day is a federal holiday, its observance by state and local entities, including schools, can vary. The Maryland Manual Online clarifies that if federal and State holiday observances fall on different days, the local education board decides the observed date for public schools. This flexibility allows for localized decisions that might prioritize instructional time or community needs.
For specific information regarding school closures on Veterans Day, it’s always best to consult the local school district’s calendar. These calendars are usually available on the school district’s website and provide the most accurate information for parents and students wondering about school schedules on Veterans Day and other holidays throughout the year. Understanding the local control over school calendars helps clarify why, despite being a significant holiday, schools might still be in session on Veterans Day.
