Duval County students head back to class on Monday, Aug. 10, marking the start of the 2026-27 school year for the district's roughly 129,000 students. Teachers report earlier, with employee planning and in-service days running Aug. 3-7, according to Duval County Public Schools.
This year's calendar drops early-release days in favor of full instructional days, with staff completing required professional development on designated employee in-service dates instead. The district is also expanding its walk-through weapons detection system to roughly 30 more elementary schools this year, building on technology already in place at middle and high schools.
Sales Tax Holiday Runs a Full Month — and Lines Up With the First Bell
Florida's Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday runs July 20 through Aug. 20, giving families the entire run-up to the first day of school, plus a buffer afterward, to shop tax-free. The dates were moved this year by the Legislature specifically to better align with when school actually starts, according to the Florida Department of Revenue.
During the holiday, the following are exempt from state and local sales tax:
- Clothing, footwear and accessories priced at $100 or less per item
- School supplies priced at $50 or less per item
- Learning aids and jigsaw puzzles priced at $30 or less
- Personal computers and accessories priced at $1,500 or less, for noncommercial home or personal use
The holiday doesn't apply to purchases made inside a theme park, entertainment complex, public lodging establishment or airport. Full item lists are available through the Florida Department of Revenue's website.
The Bottom Line for Beaches Families
School starts in less than three weeks. Now is the time to check off items on the back to school list. Most items are tax free, stores will be rolling out their sales, and events throughout the community will help you prepare.
Parents who need to register a child or update immunization records should do so as soon as possible. Applications for free and reduced meal assistance open on the district website the first week of August, in both English and Spanish.
Get more information at Duval County Public School's Back to School Guide.
