CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. (WHKY) — Summer vacation is officially over for thousands of students across Catawba County.

Monday, August 24 marks the first day of the 2026–2027 school year for Catawba County Schools. Students are returning to classrooms across the district after teachers and staff spent the past several days preparing buildings, meeting families and getting ready for the new academic year.

The district has been reminding parents to check school schedules, transportation information and other back-to-school details through individual schools and ParentSquare.

School buses will also be back on the roads throughout the county, meaning drivers should expect heavier morning and afternoon traffic around schools and residential areas. Motorists are reminded to slow down in school zones and stop for school buses when their red lights are flashing and stop arms are extended.

The new school year runs through Friday, May 21, 2027. The district calendar includes a three-hour early dismissal on December 18 and another early dismissal on the final day of classes.

Catawba County Schools serves communities across the county, including Newton, Conover, Maiden, Sherrills Ford and the surrounding area.