Students in New York City’s public and Catholic schools will benefit from a long weekend as schools will be closed on Monday, October 13. This break allows students to observe Columbus Day, Italian Heritage Day, and Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
The closure aligns with the New York City Department of Education’s academic calendar, which designates this day off in recognition of both Italian Heritage and Indigenous Peoples. Meanwhile, Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of New York also recognize Columbus Day as a holiday.
Understanding the Significance of the Holiday
Columbus Day commemorates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ journey to America in 1492, while also honoring the history and cultures of Native Americans and other indigenous groups. The dual recognition reflects a growing awareness of the diverse narratives that shape American history.
According to the Department of Education, the public school calendar includes numerous scheduled breaks throughout the academic year. These include time off for religious observances, winter and spring recesses, and various federal holidays. Catholic schools follow a similar schedule, accounting for both federal holidays and significant religious dates.
Students will return to their classrooms on Tuesday, October 14. Families can look forward to additional scheduled days off in the near future. Public schools will observe Diwali on October 20 and Election Day on November 5. Both public and Catholic schools will close for Veterans Day on November 11 and for Thanksgiving recess on November 27-28.
Impact on Families and Students
These breaks provide important opportunities for families to spend time together and engage in cultural traditions. As discussions around the significance of these holidays continue to evolve, schools are increasingly recognizing the importance of inclusive observance. This year’s extended weekend allows families to reflect on their heritage and the histories that shape their communities.
As the academic year progresses, families are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming breaks and events through school communications. This ensures that students and parents can plan accordingly and make the most of these important days off.
