During Black History Month, we're highlighting the stories of individuals who have often been left out of traditional historical records, like Lewis Howard Latimer, who was a draftsman, patent expert, and inventor. He is best known for his contributions to the design of the incandescent lightbulb that helped make electric lighting more commercially viable, including right here in New York City.
Opportunities for Students (February 2026)
Don't let the calendar fool you; February's a big month for City students who are seeking paid learning and earning opportunities this year! See what opportunities are available for City students this month, including free workshops, contests, scholarships, and this year's Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), and register/apply for them today!
Spend Your Midwinter Recess at NYC Public Libraries
Midwinter Recess runs from February 16–20 this year, and there’s lots to do for kids and teens at New York City’s public libraries, from reading challenges to extra support for teens applying for financial aid for college, and more!
Make Your Voice Heard in the 2026 NYC School Survey
Let us know what you think about NYC's public schools by completing the 2026 NYC School Survey! Learn more about this year's Survey, and submit your answers by April 1, 2026!
The Month Ahead (February 2026)
See what's happening at NYC Public Schools in February 2026, including celebrating Black History Month and Respect for All Week, and mid-winter recess right in the middle of this busy and short month.
The Time to Apply to 3-K and Pre-K for Fall 2026 is Now!
From January 14, 2026 until February 27, 2026, NYC families with children born in 2023 can apply to 3-K programs and children born in 2022 can apply to pre-k programs for the 2026–27 school year. Learn more about this year's admissions processes, including tools that you can use to discover and select programs, and submit your application!
Prepare for Remote Learning
In the event that weather conditions or other emergencies require the temporary closure of public school buildings, students will participate in remote learning at home. Make sure your family is ready with these tips and answers to frequently asked questions.
Every School Day Matters
Attendance matters! Learn how missing just two days of school every month can have a negative effect on your child's education, and see what solutions and resources are available to help your child stay in school every day, all year round!
The 2026 Milano–Cortina Olympics kick off on February 6, and we’re celebrating with a collection of winter sports stories for students of all ages. From the ice rink to the ski slopes, these books will put you in the Olympic Spirit as you cheer on your favorite athletes!
Early Readers (3-K–Grade 2)
- Lucy Tries Luge, by Lisa Bowes; illustrated by James Hearne
- Marvelous Mabel, by Crystal Hubbard; illustrated by Alleanna Harris
- When the Moon Comes, by Paul Harbridge; illustrated by Matt James
Elementary (Grades 3–5)
- Breaking the Ice, by Angie Bullaro; illustrated by C.F. Payne
- The Comeback, by E.L. Shen
- The Longest Shot, by Chad Soon and George Chiang; illustrated by Amy Qi
Middle School (Grades 6–8)
- Bea Mullins Takes a Shot, by Emily Deibert
- Lake Placid Miracle, by Blake Hoena
- Ski Soldier, by Louise Borden
Upper Grades (Grades 9–12)
- Dreamer, by Akim Aliu; written with Greg Anderson Elysee; illustrated by Karen de la Vega
- Spinning, by Tillie Walden
- Thrill Seekers, by Ann McCallum
You can find these books and many more great reads on Sora, our Citywide Digital Library, which provides free access to thousands of digital e-books and audiobooks for our students. You can also find even more recommendations in the "Celebrate the 2026 Winter Olympics" Collection on Sora!
Missed our previous book recommendations?
Check them out in the "What We're Reading" Archive!
SPOTLIGHT ON OUR SCHOOLS
In this edition of the Spotlight, we're looking back on Kamar H. Samuels' first days as Chancellor of NYC Public Schools!
Following his appointment by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Chancellor Samuels officially began his new role on January 1, 2026, and immediately began reaching out to educators and district leaders to present his vision for City public schools. The new Chancellor also spent his first full week visiting classrooms, speaking directly with parents, and meeting some of the City's most promising scholars.
Welcome aboard, Chancellor Samuels!
Get Ready for More Learning and Less Scrolling
Beginning this September, NYC Public Schools will be implementing its new Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy across all K–12 City public schools, including charter programs, in accordance with New York State law. Learn more about this "cell phone ban," and start getting ready for distraction-free schools this fall!
Ready to Read: Literacy Resources for Families
NYC Reads is reshaping the way that we teach our students to read, but the learning doesn't have to stop at the classroom door! Whether it's a family book club or a phonics-based 20 questions game, you can bring the "science of reading" home by using any of our helpful resources that will help your children continue to develop their literacy skills, like:
- Reading Games
- Phonics, Vocabulary, and Storytelling Practice
- And more!
Stay Informed with a NYC Schools Account (NYCSA)
With a NYCSA, you can:
- Access your child's school information on the go
- See your student’s grades, test scores and more
- Complete important forms
- Take classes in Parent University
- Get technology support through SupportHub
