Tempe Elementary operates a modified year-round calendar, starting in late July. They have a two-week Fall Break in late September/early October. Note that students get an extra day off after Winter Break (Jan 4) and Spring Break (Mar 22) because those are Teacher Planning Days. Also, there is a unique "Spring Holiday" on March 26. Early release happens every Friday.

Thanksgiving break runs from November 25–27, 2026. Classes resume on November 30. It’s a perfect, quick breather before the final weeks of the first semester. Since the weather is finally cooling down, take the kids hiking at the nearby Papago Park to burn off that turkey dinner. Or head to the Phoenix Zoo, which is just a short drive away. It’s a quiet long weekend to recharge before the busy holiday season hits.

Winter Break is a generous two weeks off, from December 21, 2026, through January 1, 2027. Students get an extra day off on January 4 for a Teacher Planning Day, returning January 5. The desert weather is cool and sunny. Take the kids to walk around the Tempe Town Lake and enjoy the holiday lights. Or check out the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade in early December. It’s a great time to decompress and enjoy the community.

Spring Break is a full two weeks off, from March 8–19, 2027. Students get an extra day off on March 22 for a Teacher Planning Day. The weather in March is absolutely perfect—usually in the 70s and 80s. It’s the ideal time 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 Tempe Diablo Stadium.

Fall Break is a major feature of the Tempe calendar, offering two full weeks off from September 28 through October 9, 2026. This is much earlier than traditional districts! The brutal summer heat has finally broken, making it perfect for outdoor day trips. Head to the Arizona State Fair, which usually runs in October. Or visit the nearby pumpkin patches. It’s a well-deserved rest after the intense first quarter.

Summer break kicks off early on May 27, 2027, and runs through late July. Because of the intense Arizona heat, summer survival means water. Hit the Kiwanis Park Wave Pool or the splash pads at Tempe Beach Park. If it's too hot, look for summer movie camps at Harkins Theatres or take the kids to the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix. It's long enough for summer camps, vacations, and plenty of pool time.