More than 1 million students enrolled in more than 5,000 public elementary and high schools across Costa Rica return to classrooms Monday as the second half of the 2026 school year begins.

Students are returning after the official two-week midyear break, which began July 6 under the academic calendar established by the Ministry of Public Education (MEP).

The annual vacation is traditionally one of the country's busiest periods for domestic travel, with many Costa Rican families taking advantage of the break to visit beaches, mountains and other rural destinations. July is considered one of the peak months for domestic tourism.

Although public schools are closed for classes during the break, education officials said nearly 250 public schools in socially vulnerable communities remained open to provide cafeteria services. Those schools were expected to serve lunch to approximately 17,000 students from low-income families throughout the vacation.

The school meal program is part of the ministry's ongoing effort to support children living in poverty by improving their well-being, academic performance and long-term school attendance.

The ministry has published the official 2026 school calendar online, outlining key dates and education-related activities for the year. Authorities said the school year will conclude on Dec. 9, 2026.

While Costa Rica's public schools follow the national academic calendar, some private schools operate on a U.S.-based schedule. Those institutions began classes in September 2025 and completed the academic year in June 2026.

Their academic calendar typically includes a spring break around Easter, a summer vacation from June through August, and a winter holiday break spanning Christmas and New Year's.

The MEP oversees Costa Rica's public education system and implements policies and programs to ensure access to free basic public education nationwide.

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