When Is MLK Day for Philadelphia Public Schools? (SDP 2025–2026)

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, January 19, 2026 for the School District of Philadelphia (SDP). Schools are closed for students and staff, and administrative offices are closed. 

• Date: Monday, January 19, 2026 

• Status: No school (students + staff). Administrative offices closed. 

Martin Luther King Day closure details (SDP 2026)

The School District of Philadelphia lists MLK Day on its academic calendar as a full closure:

	What SDP lists
Holiday	Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day
School open?	No (closed for students and staff)
Admin offices open?	No (administrative offices closed)

What this means for substitute teachers

You should not expect assignments that day

If SDP schools are closed to both students and staff, there generally aren’t day-to-day substitute shifts because the buildings aren’t running regular instruction. 

The days around MLK Day can be busier

In practice, the “edge days” around long weekends often have higher absence rates (travel, childcare gaps, mild illness, etc.). Even though MLK Day itself is closed, the Tuesday after can be a strong day for coverage.

When is MLK Day for SDP in 2026? Is there school in Philadelphia on Martin Luther King Day?

If you’re planning longer-term: SDP’s 2026–2027 academic calendar lists MLK Day as Monday, January 18, 2027, also with schools and administrative offices closed. 

Disclaimer

School calendars can change due to emergencies, weather, or district updates. Always confirm using the latest official School District of Philadelphia calendar.