DeKalb has a very unique schedule. They have a dedicated February Break (Feb 16-19) in addition to Spring Break in April. Also, note the "Inclement Weather Days" built into the calendar (Nov 23-24 and April 5-6). If school is cancelled for snow/ice, these days are already designated as make-up days. Finally, the last day of school (May 27) and May 28 (Post-Planning) are separate.

Thanksgiving break runs from November 23–27, 2026. Classes resume on November 30. This is a full week off! Note that Nov 23 and 24 are designated "Inclement Weather Days"—if the district has to cancel school for snow earlier in the year, these days might be taken away. If not, enjoy the break! Take the kids to the Atlanta History Center or just enjoy a quiet long weekend at home before the December rush.

Winter Break is a two-week stretch from December 21, 2026, through January 1, 2027. Students return on January 5 (since Jan 4 is a Pre-Planning Day). The weather is cold, making it perfect for indoor fun. Bundle up and check out the holiday lights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden or the Georgia Aquarium. It’s a magical time in the city, giving kids ample time to decompress after first-semester exams and enjoy the community.

Spring Break runs from April 5 through April 9, 2027. Students return on April 12. Note that April 5 and 6 are also designated "Inclement Weather Days." The weather in early April is usually beautiful, with spring flowers blooming. It’s the ideal time for a road trip or exploring local parks like Stone Mountain Park. If you're staying in town, check out the Atlanta Dogwood Festival, which usually happens in April.

Fall Break is a full week off from October 5–9, 2026. However, note that October 5 is a Teacher Virtual Workday, so students are off. The weather in early October is crisp and cool, making it perfect for outdoor day trips. Head to a local apple orchard in North Georgia or visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden for their Scarecrows in the Garden exhibit. It’s a well-deserved rest after the intense first quarter of the school year.

Summer break kicks off on May 28, 2027, and runs through early August. Because of the summer heat, survival means water. Hit the local pools or check out the water parks at Six Flags Over Georgia. If it's too hot, look for summer camps at the Fernbank Museum or the Children's Museum of Atlanta. It's long enough for summer camps, vacations, and plenty of pool time before the new school year begins in August.

DeKalb schools are closed on Monday, January 18, 2027, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It creates a nice three-day weekend for families. Since DeKalb is right next to Atlanta, it’s a great time to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Many families use this mini-break to volunteer in the community or discuss the importance of the holiday with their kids. Classes resume on Tuesday, January 19.