Richard P. Peralta Local
Schools Closed Across Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon as Two-Week Winter Break Begins Dec. 22

Mississauga, Ont. — Students and families across Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon are preparing for a much-anticipated pause in the school year as elementary and secondary schools under the Peel District School Board and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board close for the annual two-week winter break, beginning Monday, December 22.

The last day of classes for students in both boards is Friday, December 19, marking the official start of the holiday season for thousands of families across the Region of Peel. Schools will remain closed through Friday, January 2, 2026, with students returning to class on Monday, January 5.

The winter break includes major holidays such as Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, offering students and educators an opportunity to rest, travel, and spend time with family before the second half of the academic year begins.

A Welcome Pause for Students and Educators

The two-week winter break is one of the longest scheduled breaks in the Ontario school calendar and is widely viewed as an important reset point for students and staff alike. After nearly four months of continuous instruction since September, educators say the break supports student well-being, mental health, and academic focus.

Parents across Peel have also welcomed the break, especially those balancing work schedules and holiday planning. Many families use the time to travel, participate in cultural celebrations, or simply unwind at home.

School boards encourage families to review official calendars and board communications to ensure they are aware of all key dates and expectations for the remainder of the school year.

Peel District School Board: Key Dates to Know

The Peel District School Board (PDSB), which serves tens of thousands of students across the region, has released its full list of PA days, holidays, and exam periods for the 2025–26 school year.

PA Days (No Classes for Students)

  • Monday, January 19 — Elementary students only

  • Thursday, January 29 — Secondary students only

  • Friday, February 13 — All students

  • Friday, May 15 — All students

  • Monday, June 8 — Elementary students only

  • Wednesday, June 24 — Secondary students only

  • Thursday, June 25 — Secondary students only

School Holidays

  • Winter Break: Monday, Dec. 22 to Friday, Jan. 2, 2026

  • Family Day: Monday, Feb. 16

  • March Break: Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20

  • Good Friday: Friday, April 3

  • Easter Monday: Monday, April 6

  • Victoria Day: Monday, May 18

Secondary School Exam Periods

  • Semester 1 Exams: Thursday, Jan. 22 to Wednesday, Jan. 28

  • Semester 2 Exams: Wednesday, June 17 to Tuesday, June 23

Other Important Dates

  • Friday, Jan. 30: First day of Semester 2

  • Tuesday, June 16: Last day of classes before exams (secondary)

  • Thursday, June 26: Official last day of the school year

Parents are advised to check school newsletters and board updates, particularly during exam periods, as schedules may vary by school.

Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board Calendar

The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) follows a similar schedule, with slight variations for PA days and end-of-year dates.

PA Days

  • Monday, January 19 — Elementary students only

  • Thursday, January 29 — Secondary students only

  • Friday, February 13 — All students

  • Friday, April 10 — St. Sofia Catholic School only

  • Friday, May 15 — All students

  • Monday, June 8 — Elementary students only

  • Thursday, June 25 — Secondary students only

  • Friday, June 26 — Secondary students only

School Holidays

  • Winter Break: Monday, Dec. 22 to Friday, Jan. 2, 2026

  • Family Day: Monday, Feb. 16

  • March Break: Monday, March 16 to Friday, March 20

  • Good Friday: Friday, April 3

  • Easter Monday: Monday, April 6

  • Victoria Day: Monday, May 18

Exam Periods

  • Semester 1 Exams: Wednesday, Jan. 21 to Wednesday, Jan. 28

  • Semester 2 Exams: Wednesday, June 17 to Wednesday, June 24

Notable Dates

  • Friday, Jan. 30: First day of Semester 2

  • Tuesday, June 16: Last day of classes before exams

  • Friday, June 26: Last day of school for elementary students

Planning Ahead: What Families Should Know

School boards recommend families plan childcare, travel, and activities early, especially for the days immediately before and after the winter break. While schools are closed, many community centres, libraries, and recreational facilities continue to offer holiday programming.

Parents should also be aware that school offices may operate on reduced hours during the holiday period, and responses to administrative inquiries may be delayed.

Things to Do During the Winter Break in Peel Region

For families staying local, Peel offers a wide range of activities throughout the winter break:

Libraries and Community Programs

Public libraries in Mississauga, Brampton, and Caledon typically host winter reading challenges, craft sessions, and family-friendly workshops. Most branches close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, but reopen with modified hours on other dates.

Arts and Culture

  • Visit the Art Gallery of Mississauga

  • Explore exhibits at the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives (PAMA)

  • Attend seasonal performances or cultural events hosted by local organizations

Shopping and Seasonal Events

Major shopping centres such as Square One, Bramalea City Centre, and Dixie Outlet Mall often feature holiday displays, family activities, and Boxing Week sales running through late December.

Outdoor Winter Fun

Weather permitting, families can enjoy:

  • Ice skating at Chinguacousy Park

  • Tobogganing at Erindale Park

  • Winter hiking at Claireville Conservation Area

Municipal websites provide updates on outdoor facility conditions and safety advisories.

Looking Ahead to the Second Half of the School Year

As students return in early January, schools will quickly shift focus to Semester 1 exams, academic assessments, and preparation for the remainder of the school year. Educators encourage students to maintain healthy routines during the break, including reading, light review, and rest.

The winter break also serves as a reminder for families to stay informed about upcoming PA days, holidays, and exam schedules to avoid disruptions later in the year.

Final Reminder for Families

  • Last day of classes: Friday, Dec. 19

  • Winter break: Dec. 22 to Jan. 2

  • Back to school: Monday, Jan. 5, 2026

Parents and guardians are encouraged to regularly check their school board’s official website and communications for updates, especially in the event of weather-related closures or schedule changes.