Higley uses a modified year-round calendar, starting very early in late July. They have a generous two-week Fall Break in October and a two-week Spring Break in March. Note that Wednesday early releases happen frequently for Professional Development (PD) for elementary and middle schools.

Thanksgiving break runs from November 26–27, 2026 (with Nov 25 also off). It’s a perfect mid-semester breather before the big winter push. Since students return on November 30, keep it low-key. The weather in late November is gorgeous in Arizona. Take the kids hiking at the nearby San Tan Mountain Regional Park to burn off that turkey dinner, or visit the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch for some easy, free bird-watching. It’s a quick reset before the busy holiday season begins.

Winter Break is a generous two weeks off, running December 21, 2026, through January 1, 2027. School resumes on January 5 (with a staff day on Jan 4). The desert weather is cool and sunny, making it prime time for outdoor fun. Take the kids to the Phoenix Zoo or walk around the Heritage District in downtown Gilbert for holiday lights. It’s the perfect time to decompress after first-semester exams and enjoy the festive community atmosphere.

Spring Break is a full two weeks (March 8–19, 2027), aligning perfectly with Arizona’s beautiful spring weather. It’s a major recharge point before the final push to May. With temps in the 70s and 80s, families flock to local parks. It’s also the ideal window for a road trip to San Diego or the Grand Canyon. If you\'re staying in town, it’s prime time for Cactus League spring training baseball at nearby stadiums.

Fall Break is the crown jewel of the Higley calendar—a full two weeks off from October 5–16, 2026. (Note: Oct 19 is a Staff PD day, so kids get an extra Monday off). The brutal summer heat has finally broken, making it perfect for outdoor day trips. Local pumpkin patches like Mother Nature\'s Farm are in full swing. It’s a fantastic, well-deserved rest after the intense first quarter of the school year.

Summer break kicks off on May 26, 2027, and runs through late July. While shorter than traditional districts, it’s still a solid two-month window. Because of the intense Arizona heat, summer survival means water. Hit the Mesquite Aquatic Center or the massive splash pad at Gilbert Regional Park. Many families use this time to escape to cooler climates like California or the mountains. It\'s long enough for summer camps, vacations, and plenty of pool time.