Are Schools Out on Veterans Day?
Direct Answer: Yes, but it depends on the country and state
Veterans Day, which is celebrated on November 11th every year, is a federal holiday in the United States to honor and thank all military personnel who have served and sacrificed for their country. While many schools in the United States are closed on Veterans Day, it is not a universal rule. The answer to whether schools are out on Veterans Day depends on the country and state.
United States
In the United States, Veterans Day is a federal holiday, which means that all federal offices, including federal schools, are closed on this day. Additionally, many state and local schools also observe Veterans Day and are closed. According to the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), nearly 90% of elementary schools in the US close on Veterans Day, while around 75% of middle schools and 60% of high schools close.
Other Countries
In Canada, Remembrance Day is celebrated on November 11th, which is also a federal holiday. Canadian schools typically observe Remembrance Day and are closed, although some schools may choose to hold special ceremonies or events instead of closing entirely.
In the United Kingdom, Armistice Day is celebrated on November 11th, which is not a public holiday, but many schools and educational institutions may choose to close or hold special events.
State-by-State Comparison in the US
Here is a breakdown of the percentage of schools in each state that are closed on Veterans Day:
| State | Percentage of Schools Closed |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 87% |
| Arizona | 74% |
| California | 60% |
| Florida | 85% |
| Georgia | 83% |
| Illinois | 64% |
| Massachusetts | 75% |
| Michigan | 75% |
| New York | 65% |
| Ohio | 75% |
| Pennsylvania | 75% |
| Texas | 82% |
Why Schools are Closed on Veterans Day
There are several reasons why schools may choose to close on Veterans Day:
• Respect and commemoration: Closing schools on Veterans Day allows students and teachers to participate in ceremonies, parades, and other events to honor and pay respects to military personnel and veterans.
• Financial and logistical considerations: Many schools have limited resources, and closing on Veterans Day can help reduce costs associated with staffing, transportation, and utilities.
• Community engagement: Closing schools on Veterans Day can provide an opportunity for students to engage with their communities, attend Veterans Day events, and learn about the history and significance of the holiday.
Alternatives to Closing Schools
For schools that are not closed on Veterans Day, there are alternative ways to observe the holiday and engage with students:
• Special events and assemblies: Host special events, such as guest speakers, concerts, or ceremonies, to honor veterans and their sacrifices.
• In-class activities: Incorporate Veterans Day-themed activities into lesson plans, such as writing essays, creating artwork, or conducting research on the history of the holiday.
• Volunteer opportunities: Organize volunteer activities, such as collecting donations or participating in community clean-up events, to teach students about the importance of giving back to their communities.
Conclusion
While some schools in the United States are closed on Veterans Day, it is not a universal rule. The decision to close schools on this day depends on the country, state, and individual school district. Whether schools are closed or not, it is essential to take the time to honor and appreciate the sacrifices made by military personnel and veterans, and to educate students about the significance of this holiday.
