Back to school: Here’s a list of the 2024-25 start dates in Orange County

A Clinton Elementary School student is cheered on by teachers and staff as they arrive on campus. (Courtesy of Garden Grove Unified)
A Clinton Elementary School student is cheered on by teachers and staff as they arrive on campus. (Courtesy of Garden Grove Unified)

With backpacks packed and colorful writing supplies in tow, Orange County students are getting ready to return to another year of fun-filled learning in and out of the classroom. 

However, as the community prepares for a new school year, it should be noted that the first day of school isn’t the same for everyone.

School start dates actually vary quite a bit across the county — some students are already back at their desks while others have a few weeks remaining in their summer break.

While start dates may differ from district to charter school, each campus is required to provide 180 days of academic instruction. 

The Anaheim Elementary, Centralia, Cypress and Savanna school districts joined the Anaheim Union High School District in kicking off the county’s academic year last week. Near the end of the month, back-to-school season will come to a close when classes resume for the Huntington Beach Union High School District, along with the Fountain Valley, Ocean View and Westminster school districts.

The OCDE Newsroom, with help from department staff, has compiled a list of school start dates to help local families prepare for the big first day.

Check out the breakdown below for each OC school district and charter school that follows the traditional academic calendar. For year-round start dates, be sure to check your local school or district’s website.