School Board approves 2026-2027 academic calendar with community input

The Sioux Falls School District 49-5 has officially adopted the school calendar for the 2026-2027 academic year, a decision made during the recent school board meeting on April 14, 2025. This calendar, which reflects community input and established guidelines, aims to provide a structured and predictable schedule for students and families.

The new calendar begins with a two-day week followed by two four-day weeks, allowing for a four-day weekend over Labor Day. This approach, established nearly a decade ago, has become a staple of the district's scheduling process. The calendar committee, composed of around 30 members including parents, teachers, and school board representatives, unanimously approved the calendar with a vote of 25-0, highlighting the collaborative effort behind its creation.

Key dates in the 2026-2027 calendar include the first day of school on August 27, 2026, and the last day on May 26, 2027. Notably, there will be no school on Native American Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, honoring these significant observances. Additionally, a compensatory day for teacher conferences has been scheduled for April 19, 2027, ensuring that educators have adequate time for professional development.

The school board emphasized the importance of community engagement in the calendar planning process, noting that feedback from various stakeholders helps shape a schedule that meets the needs of families. The finalized calendar will be posted on the district's website shortly, allowing families to plan ahead for the upcoming school year.

As the district moves forward, the adoption of this calendar not only reflects a commitment to educational consistency but also addresses the community's desire for transparency and involvement in school planning. The board's decision marks a significant step in fostering a supportive educational environment for students and families in Sioux Falls.