NYC Schools Closed Monday, Jan. 19, 2026: Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy
NEW YORK — Students across all five boroughs are enjoying an extended weekend as New York City public and Catholic schools remain closed today, Monday, January 19, 2026. The city-wide closure is in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday that serves as both a solemn remembrance of the slain civil rights leader and a “Day of Service” for millions of Americans.
While the absence of classes offers a reprieve for the city’s nearly one million students, the day is far from a simple vacation. From the corridors of Harlem to the community centers of Staten Island, New York is marking the occasion with a flurry of civic engagement, educational forums, and volunteerism.
Why the Doors are Locked Today
The closure is a mandatory fixture of the NYC Department of Education (NYCPS) and Archdiocese of New York academic calendars. Dr. King’s birthday, originally January 15, is celebrated on the third Monday of January each year.
In a city as diverse as New York, the holiday carries significant weight. Dr. King had deep ties to the city, often using its pulpits and podiums to address the nation. Today’s closure allows educators and families to participate in events that reflect on his non-violent struggle for racial and economic justice.
A “Day On,” Not a Day Off
New York City has leaned heavily into the federal designation of MLK Day as a National Day of Service. Instead of just staying home, thousands of students and teachers are participating in community-led initiatives.
- Volunteerism: Organizations like New York Cares and NYC Service have reported record sign-ups for 2026. Projects today include painting community centers in the Bronx, sorting food donations at city pantries, and “clean-up” events in local parks.
- The 40th Annual Brooklyn Tribute: At the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), the city’s largest public tribute is underway. The event features keynote speakers, musical performances, and film screenings designed to connect Dr. King’s 1960s activism with modern-day social justice movements.
- National Action Network (NAN): In Harlem, Rev. Al Sharpton is hosting the annual King Day Public Policy Forum, where local leaders discuss equity in NYC’s education and housing sectors.
The Road Ahead: Regents and Mid-Winter Recess
For high school students, today’s break is the “calm before the storm.” Starting tomorrow, Tuesday, January 20, the NYC Department of Education will begin the administration of the January Regents Exams. These high-stakes tests will run through Friday, January 23, marking a critical period for students aiming for mid-year graduation or credit recovery.
Following the Regents period, students can look forward to:
- Professional Development Day (Jan 26): High schools and 6-12 schools will be closed for students.
- Mid-Winter Recess (Feb 16-20): A week-long break for public school students, though Catholic schools typically remain in session during this period.
A Message from City Leadership
In a morning briefing, city officials emphasized that the closure of schools is an investment in the city’s character. “We close our classrooms today so that the entire city can become a classroom,” said a representative for the Chancellor. “By serving our neighbors, our students learn the most important lesson Dr. King taught: that everyone can be great because everyone can serve.”
NYC School Calendar Quick Reference: Winter 2026
| Date | Event | School Status |
| Jan 19 | MLK Jr. Day | Closed |
| Jan 20-23 | Regents Exams | Open (Testing Schedule) |
| Jan 26 | Professional Development | Closed (High Schools Only) |
| Jan 27 | Spring Semester Begins | Open |
| Feb 16-20 | Mid-Winter Recess | Closed (Public Schools Only) |
As the sun sets on this day of service, the city prepares to pivot back to the classroom. But for today, the focus remains on the “Beloved Community” that Dr. King envisioned—a vision being worked toward in every corner of New York.
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