Schools and colleges in the United States have two observances in the same week this month. American Education Week and International Education Week both run November 16-20, 2026. The first honors the people who work in public schools. The second promotes study abroad and educational exchange.
American Education Week: The Daily Schedule
It always falls in the week before Thanksgiving. Each weekday has its own focus, so schools can give families, support staff and substitutes their own day.
| Date | Day’s focus |
|---|---|
| Monday, November 16 | Kickoff Day |
| Tuesday, November 17 | Parents Day (also called Family Day) |
| Wednesday, November 18 | Education Support Professionals Day |
| Thursday, November 19 | Educator for a Day |
| Friday, November 20 | Substitute Educators Day |
On Monday, schools across the country open the week with kickoff events. The Wednesday is for education support professionals, the staff who keep schools running and students safe, healthy and ready to learn. Substitute Educators Day is observed on Friday of the week.
Where American Education Week Came From
The National Education Association and the American Legion launched the observance together in 1921. More national groups have joined since then. The current cosponsors include the National PTA, the American Federation of Teachers, the National School Boards Association, the Council of Chief State School Officers, and the national associations for elementary and secondary school principals.
The California Teachers Association suggests opening the week with an explanation of the observance in the Monday morning announcements, then marking each day’s theme as it comes. It also suggests asking the local newspaper for an editorial about public schools during the week.
International Education Week: Exchange and Study Abroad
The U.S. departments of State and Education jointly run International Education Week to highlight the value of studying and exchanging ideas across borders. It started in 2000, and more than 100 countries now take part.
Colleges carry most of the week. Campus international offices usually run cultural events, study-abroad information sessions and programs for international students. Stony Brook University’s Office of Global Affairs, for one, has planned a set of programs for faculty, staff and students.
What to Do This Month
- Put November 16-20 on the school or campus calendar for both observances.
- Plan a Wednesday, November 18, event for support staff such as bus drivers, cafeteria workers and office staff.
- Set aside Friday, November 20, to thank substitute teachers.
- Invite families in on Tuesday, November 17, with classroom visits or an open house.
- For colleges, put study-abroad and exchange events on the November 16-20 calendar.
FAQ
– Who organizes American Education Week?
The National Education Association started it in 1921 together with the American Legion. Today it also has cosponsors that include the U.S. Department of Education and the National PTA.
– Is International Education Week only for colleges?
No. The State and Education departments started it together to celebrate international education and exchange worldwide, and more than 100 countries now mark it. Universities hold many of the events, but any school can take part.