SCCPSS Requests Feedback on Proposed Academic Calendars

The academic calendar is a vital component of the educational framework in any school district, and Savannah-Chatham Public Schools is no exception. The development of this calendar is a complex process that involves several factors while aiming to balance valuable instructional time with necessary breaks for students and staff.  With input from our school community, the District strives to create a schedule that meets our educational standards while accommodating the diverse needs of the community. 

The calendar development process considers the framework from the previously adopted 2025-2026 Academic Calendar.  While the success of any academic schedule hinges on the satisfaction and support of all involved parties, the calendar is subject to certain influential factors and considers scheduling components that are unique to our area including periodic breaks aligned to the observance of federal holidays and major community events.

Balancing Instructional Time with Breaks

One of the primary objectives in developing the academic calendar is to strike a balance between instructional time and breaks. This balance is crucial for maintaining student engagement and ensuring teachers have adequate time for education our students, planning, and professional development. 

Importance of State Assessment Windows 

State assessment windows significantly influence the academic calendar. These periods are essential for evaluating student progress and ensuring that educational standards are met. The District prioritizes scheduling to allow proper instructional time leading up to assessments to ensure the best possible preparation.  Dr. Laura May, Executive Director of Accountability and Assessment, explains "State assessments are a critical part of our educational system. We work hard to ensure that the calendar allows for thorough preparation and minimizes disruptions in teaching and learning so our students can perform their best.  It's not just about the administration of the assessment themselves but about the learning that happens in preparation. Our calendar reflects the need for dedicated instructional time leading up to these assessments." 

Creating a Well-Rounded Academic Schedule 

The academic calendar must also accommodate various factors including holidays and staff planning days in support of both academic excellence and the well-being of students and staff. 

Professional Development and Teacher Workdays 

Adequate time for professional development is essential for teachers to enhance their skills and stay updated with educational trends. By strategically scheduling staff planning days, educators have the opportunity to grow professionally, which ultimately benefits students. 

Multiple Components 

The proposed calendars include 180 instructional days, 10 staff planning days, 5 pre-planning days, 2 post-planning days, one Remote-Learning Day per semester, an extended October fall break (4-day weekend) for students and school staff, one-week Thanksgiving break, two-week winter break, one-week spring break, and accounts for St. Patrick’s Day and Veteran’s Day.  Major breaks are scheduled at the conclusion of winter assessments and in advance of spring assessments.  Both calendars end school for students and post planning for teachers prior to the long Memorial Day weekend. 

Feedback 

The development of the academic calendar for Savannah-Chatham Public Schools is a process that aims to balance instructional time with breaks for students and staff.  By prioritizing state assessment windows with a balance that provides for holidays and teacher workdays, students receive a quality education that prepares them for success. Through collaboration and feedback from all stakeholders, the district creates a well-rounded academic schedule that supports both educational standards and the well-being of its community.  We invite you to fill out the survey for each of the proposed calendars below.

Preview the 26-27 Draft Calendar (PDF - 484 KB) | Provide feedback on the SY 26-27 Calendar

Preview the 27-28 Draft Calendar  (PDF - 484 KB) | Provide feedback on the SY 27-28 Calendar