Students in Mexico will enjoy a long weekend as classes will be suspended on March 28, 2025, due to the regular meeting of the Consejo Técnico Escolar (CTE) according to the Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP). This meeting is a vital part of the education calendar, as teachers convene every last Friday of the month to discuss educational strategies and needs, ensuring that they are aligning their efforts to support student development.
March's last Friday will mark a notable pause in the school schedule, giving students of preschool, primary, and secondary levels a welcome break before the Semana Santa (Holy Week) vacation begins a few weeks later. "El calendario escolar de la SEP señala que el periodo vacacional de Semana Santa comenzará a partir del próximo día lunes 14 de abril y se prolongarán hasta el día martes 24 del mismo mes," reported the SEP, confirming the two-week break during this culturally significant period.
Students will see their last day of classes before the Semana Santa vacation on April 11, 2025, before enjoying a full two weeks away from school. Classes will resume on April 28, providing an extended period for families to unwind and engage in various activities, culturally or personally significant during this time.
The CTE plays an important role in the Mexican educational system, as it seeks to create a collaborative environment among teachers and school staff. "El consejo está formado por personal docente y técnico-docente de cada escuela," which emphasizes that such gatherings prioritize the academic and personal growth of students. The meetings help in planning responses to specific student needs, evaluating methodologies, and discussing necessary adjustments throughout the education cycle.
This historic meeting procedure not only strengthens educational practices but also aligns with the cultural significance of breaks like Semana Santa in Mexico. Historically, these vacations have roots that connect back to the country’s predominant Catholic practices. Although there is no clear record of when these breaks became standard, it is known that they were adapted from the liturgical calendar after Mexico gained independence in the 19th century.
As the years progressed, and after legislative changes separating church from state, maintaining this cultural practice has remained a priority for the SEP, which recognizes the importance of these breaks for the social and cultural fabric of Mexican society. Significant days during Semana Santa include activities starting from Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday) on April 13 leading up to Domingo de Resurrección (Easter Sunday) on April 20.
In addition to the elementary and secondary school schedule, the SEP has also announced additional holidays throughout the year, including May 1 for Labor Day, May 5 for the Battle of Puebla, and May 15 for Teacher's Day. Families need to be aware of these dates, as they can plan holidays or family outings around them, which enhance community bonds among families.
The school year of 2024-2025 will conclude on July 16, 2025, marking effectively the end of the educational calendar for that year. During this academic year, students across basic education, which includes public and private institutions, will experience a total of 190 scheduled class days. Students in teacher training institutions will have slightly more, totaling 195 days of activities.
In line with health initiatives, the SEP will also introduce "Vive Saludable, Vive Feliz", a new strategy launched in early March aimed at promoting healthier eating habits in schools, and eradicating junk food from public school menus starting March 29, signifying a comprehensive approach to student health. Public schools will conduct census activities regarding health metrics such as weight and vision, in partnership with health authorities to ensure that children remain healthy.
As we approach the rest of the school year, the anticipation of these breaks and the planning for quality educational practices particularly through the CTE meetings serves as a reminder of the importance of balance in education, well-being, and community engagement. With these institutional breaks not just allowing respite from academic rigor, they also provide families with cherished time together, perfectly nestled within the rich traditions of Mexican culture.
