Back to School in Manatee and Sarasota Counties: 2026–2027 Academic Calendars

Izzy Pollack
Aug 6
3 min read

The backpacks are packed, the school supplies are labeled, and the slower rhythm of summer is about to be replaced by alarm clocks, car lines, homework and after-school activities.

School starts on Monday, August 10, 2026, for students in both Manatee County and Sarasota County, which means families across Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, Nokomis and surrounding communities are officially heading back to school together.

To make planning a little easier, I’ve included the official 2026–2027 academic calendars for Manatee County and Sarasota County with this post. Save them somewhere easy to find—you’ll want them when planning holidays, appointments, travel and those very necessary long weekends.

2026–2027 school calendar at a glance

Manatee County Schools

First day for students: Monday, August 10, 2026
Thanksgiving break: November 23–27, 2026
Winter break: December 21, 2026–January 5, 2027; students return January 6
Spring break: March 15–19, 2027
Last day for students: Thursday, May 27, 2027

Sarasota County Schools

First day for students: Monday, August 10, 2026
Thanksgiving break: November 23–27, 2026
Winter break: December 21, 2026–January 4, 2027; students return January 5
Spring break: March 15–19, 2027
Last day for students: Wednesday, May 26, 2027

Please remember that calendars may be updated and hurricane make-up days can affect the schedule. Always confirm dates with your child’s school or district before making travel plans.

My family’s experience with Florida public schools

When families consider moving to Florida, schools are almost always one of their biggest questions. And I understand why—not just as a Lakewood Ranch Realtor, but as a mom.

Our experience with public schools in Florida has been genuinely wonderful. My children have had access to strong academic programs, teachers who care, opportunities that help them discover what they love and school communities where they have felt supported. I’ve also appreciated the clear expectations around kindness, behavior and bullying, along with the nurturing environment I have personally seen.

To me, that is what childhood here can look like: a quality education, meaningful opportunities and a supportive school community—while still getting to grow up with sunshine, outdoor adventures, sports, dance, friendships and the Florida lifestyle families move here to enjoy.

No school or district is one-size-fits-all, and every family should review programs, boundaries, transportation and the individual needs of their child. But as a parent, I can honestly say that Florida public schools have been a very positive part of our family’s life.

Great neighborhoods start with strong school communities

I’ve always believed that schools are where great neighborhoods begin.

A school is more than a building children enter every morning. It is where families meet, friendships form, teachers shape futures and a true sense of community grows. School plays, science nights, sports, clubs, fundraisers and volunteer events bring people together in a way few other places can.

That sense of connection reaches far beyond the campus. When families, educators and local businesses show up for a school, they help build a stronger community around it—and that is exactly the kind of community I want to live, work and raise my children in.

This year marks my fifth year as a proud Platinum Sponsor of Robert E. Willis Elementary School. Supporting Willis has never been about simply placing my name on a banner. It is about investing in the teachers, students and families who make our corner of Lakewood Ranch feel like home.

I’m incredibly proud to continue that partnership for another school year.

New school year, fresh start

To every student walking into a new classroom, every parent managing the morning rush, and every teacher preparing to welcome a new group of children: here’s to a safe, happy and successful 2026–2027 school year.

And if you are considering a move to Lakewood Ranch, Manatee County or Sarasota County, I’m always happy to help you understand the communities, school-boundary resources and housing options available—so you can make the decision that fits your family best.