When Does School Start? Full 2026-2027 SWLA Back-to-School Schedule

Lake Charles, Louisiana - Summer break is flying by, and before long, students across Southwest Louisiana will be heading back to the classroom. It feels like every year, kids go back to school earlier and earlier. We're taking a look at when each parish and school in Southwest Louisiana is set to start the 2026-2027 school year.

Unlike some states, Louisiana does not have one official first day of school. Instead, each local school board creates its own school calendar and decides when classes will begin and end.

State law requires public schools to provide at least 177 instructional days each school year. Schools also have to meet a minimum number of instructional minutes. This gives districts the flexibility to adjust their daily schedules while still meeting the state's education requirements.

READ MORE: Could Time Change Become A Thing of the Past? 

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First Day Of School Around Southwest Louisiana in 2026

When is the First Day of School in Cameron Parish?

In Cameron Parish, students will return to public schools for their first official day on August 3rd. Graduation dates will be set for each individual school within the parish and will be announced at a later time.

When is the First Day of School in Beauregard Parish?

In Beauregard Parish, students will return to public schools for their first official day on August 5th. Graduation dates will be set for each individual school within the parish and will be announced at a later time.

When is the First Day of School in Vernon Parish?

In Vernon Parish, students will return to public schools for their first official day on August 10th. Graduation dates will be set for each individual school within the parish and will be announced at a later time.

When is the First Day of School in Allen Parish?

In Allen Parish, students will return to public schools for their first official day on August 12th. Graduation dates will be set for each individual school within the parish and will be announced at a later time.

When is the First Day of School in Calcasieu Parish?

In Calcasieu Parish, students will return to public schools for their first official day on August 13th. Graduation dates will be set for each individual school within the parish and will be announced at a later time.

When is the First Day of School in Jefferson Davis Parish?

In Jeff Davis Parish, students will return to public schools for their first official day on August 14th. Graduation dates will be set for each individual school within the parish and will be announced at a later time.