Mexico to Review School Year Cut After Public Outcry

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the government will revisit a decision to shorten the academic year, a move that sparked a wave of criticism from parents, education experts, and local authorities. The plan had been linked to the country's hosting of 2026 World Cup matches.

Education Minister Mario Delgado had previously declared that the school year would end on June 5, roughly 40 days earlier than usual. He cited high summer temperatures as the justification for the change. Under the original calendar, the academic year was scheduled to conclude on July 15, followed by a six-week summer break lasting until the end of August.

Mexico is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada. The tournament is set to kick off on June 11 with a match in Mexico City between the Mexican national team and South Africa.

Sheinbaum stated that education officials will hold meetings with government bodies and parents to explore possible alternatives. “The idea is to maintain the six-week summer vacation as is customary, and perhaps some students will start school earlier while others follow the previous schedule,” she said.

“The goal is to reach a consensus decision, and now we must listen to everyone,” the president added.

Two Mexican states have already rejected the plan to shorten the school year.