Hinds County School District 2026–2027 academic calendar with new Wellness Days initiative
The Hinds County School District has released its 2026–2027 academic calendar, introducing a new Wellness Days initiative aimed at supporting student wellbeing alongside academic achievement. District leaders say the calendar reflects a continued commitment to balancing strong instructional outcomes with the mental, emotional, and physical needs of students, staff, and families.
Students will begin the school year on July 30, 2026, and the year will conclude on May 27, 2027, with a 60 percent day. The calendar remains structured into four nine-week instructional periods, each consisting of 45 days, to allow for consistent progress monitoring and instructional planning. The first nine weeks will run from July 30 through October 2, followed by the second nine weeks from October 12 through December 18. The third nine weeks is scheduled for January 5 through March 19, and the fourth nine weeks will take place from March 22 through May 27.
District benchmark and nine weeks assessments will be administered during designated testing windows throughout the year. Those dates include, September 28 through October 2, December 14 through 18, March 1 through 5, and May 19 through 25. District officials say the assessments will provide data to guide instruction and support student growth ahead of state testing. A key addition to the upcoming calendar is the implementation of Wellness Days, which are built in breaks designed to help students reset and return to class ready to learn. The scheduled Wellness Days are September 4, January 15, February 12, and April 16 and 19. District officials noted that these days may also serve as make up days in the event of inclement weather.
According to the district, the initiative is intended to address growing concerns around student stress and academic fatigue. By incorporating intentional breaks throughout the year, leaders aim to reduce test related anxiety, prevent burnout, and improve student focus and retention. The district also noted that the additional time off may support students’ mental and emotional health while providing families with opportunities to spend time together. Several extended breaks are also included in the calendar to assist with family planning. Fall Break is scheduled for October 5 through 9, Thanksgiving Break for November 23 through 27, Winter Holidays from December 21 through January 1, and Spring Break from March 8 through 12.
Parent engagement opportunities are scheduled for July 29, October 21, and January 27. Schools will also be closed in observance of federal holidays, including Labor Day on September 7, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 18, and Presidents’ Day on February 15. District officials encourage families and staff to review the full academic calendar and plan accordingly for the upcoming school year. For more information, visit https://www.hinds.k12.ms.us/article/2788617.
