Back To School: Pinole, Hercules 2021-22 School Calendar

PINOLE AND HERCULES, CA — Back-to-school planning has already begun in Pinole and Hercules, with calendars available to help parents prepare for the first day in the West Contra Costa Unified School District.

The first day of school for students in Pinole and Hercules is Monday, Aug. 16.

Heading into the upcoming school year, some dates are subject to change as the coronavirus pandemic nears its year-and-a-half point. A mix of in-person, virtual and hybrid learning is still possible in Pinole and Hercules, though Gov. Gavin Newsom recently reaffirmed his desire to see students back in the classroom so they can receive the social and emotional benefits that come with full-time, in-person learning.

Newsom urged residents — including teachers — to sign up for a COVID-19 vaccine if they have not done so already. The decisions of Californians who have balked at inoculation could affect businesses and in-person learning, he said.

More: CA To Require Vaccines Or Testing For Health Care, State Workers

The Golden State will require masks indoors in K-12 schools, child care facilities and other settings with children. Face coverings will be provided to students who do not bring them.

Like last year, these policies could change at any time or following guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The California Department of Public Health said this month that it will assess COVID-19-related safety rules at schools on an ongoing basis and will determine by Nov. 1 whether mask requirements or guidelines should be updated.

Here is a list of dates to know for the 2021-2022 school year:

West Contra Costa Unified School District

First Day of School: Monday, Aug. 16 (Minimum Day)

Thanksgiving Holiday: Nov. 22-26

Winter Recess: Dec. 20-31

Spring Recess: April 4-8

Last Day of School: Wednesday, June 8