LA CROSSE, Wis., (December 6, 2024) – We are making important updates to the 2025-2026 school calendar and start times. We are thankful for the feedback from our families and staff through surveys and committees that have guided these changes.
School Calendar Changes
- District Calendar: Most schools will start on Thursday, August 21, 2025, and end on Friday, May 29, 2026.
- Northside Elementary and Coulee Montessori: These schools will follow a slightly different schedule, with a fall break and a later end date of Friday, June 5, 2026.
Feedback from families and staff showed a strong preference for starting and ending the school year earlier. Aligning our calendar with local private schools allows us to meet state-mandated transportation requirements while reducing costs and reinvesting resources into our classrooms.
Start Time Changes
- Elementary Schools: 7:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
- Middle and High Schools: 8:25 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Research shows these times better meet students’ developmental needs. Older students benefit from later start times, improving academic success and mental health. For younger students, earlier start times have been shown to have neutral to positive effects.
Northside and Coulee Montessori Transition
Northside Elementary and Coulee Montessori will shift from their current year-round model to the traditional district calendar at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. This decision is based on a program evaluation that found challenges in meeting achievement, attendance, and enrollment goals. Summer school and Boys and Girls Club programs will remain available to support families during this transition.
Next Steps
We understand these changes may require adjustments and are here to help. Updated school calendars and additional details are available on our website: La Crosse School District Calendars. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns.
Thank you for your understanding and partnership as we work together to support our students and staff.
###
