Booker High School — School Calendar 2026-27

Banks, government offices, and schools may be closed.

Join us for our first Lunch and Learn session to discuss how to best prepare for parent-teacher conferences. During the session, participants will gain ideas for before, during, and after conferences. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

Menu #1

Menu #1

Review the testing notice for schedule and preparation information.

Menu #1

Menu #1

Menu #1

Menu #1

Check the spirit week notice for daily themes and participation guidelines.

Menu #1

Hardee Senior High School

Menu #1

Any student needing the EOC for ALG or GEO

IMG

Menu #1

Any student needing the EOC for USH or BIO

Venice Invitational

Review the event notice for time and location details.

Check the event details for ticket information and logistics.

Menu #1

LOCATION:School Board Chambers, Black Awning BuildingCONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

Manatee

Menu #1

Join us for our second Lunch and Learn session to discuss how to use picture books to build reading comprehension with your children. During the session, participants will learn tips to support their children in being life-long readers. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

Menu #1

Any 11 or 12 student needing a reading concordant score

Bayshore (Senior Night)

Tri Meet @ Lemon Bay

No School

Menu #1

Menu #1

Menu #1

Cardinal Mooney HS

THEATRE (Musical) – “Once Upon a One More Time” Thursday - Saturday, October 15th-17th 7pm, Sunday, October 18th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. A fairy tale where “happily ever after” is just the beginning. Princesses discover friendship, freedom, and their own voices in this high-energy, Britney Spears–powered musical comedy. Bursting with humor and heart, it’s a dazzling celebration of self-discovery and rewriting your own happily ever after.

THEATRE (Musical) – “Once Upon a One More Time” Thursday - Saturday, October 15th-17th 7pm, Sunday, October 18th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. A fairy tale where “happily ever after” is just the beginning. Princesses discover friendship, freedom, and their own voices in this high-energy, Britney Spears–powered musical comedy. Bursting with humor and heart, it’s a dazzling celebration of self-discovery and rewriting your own happily ever after.

ODA Thunder Invitational 2026

THEATRE (Musical) – “Once Upon a One More Time” Thursday - Saturday, October 15th-17th 7pm, Sunday, October 18th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. A fairy tale where “happily ever after” is just the beginning. Princesses discover friendship, freedom, and their own voices in this high-energy, Britney Spears–powered musical comedy. Bursting with humor and heart, it’s a dazzling celebration of self-discovery and rewriting your own happily ever after.

THEATRE (Musical) – “Once Upon a One More Time” Thursday - Saturday, October 15th-17th 7pm, Sunday, October 18th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. A fairy tale where “happily ever after” is just the beginning. Princesses discover friendship, freedom, and their own voices in this high-energy, Britney Spears–powered musical comedy. Bursting with humor and heart, it’s a dazzling celebration of self-discovery and rewriting your own happily ever after.

All Grade 10 Students

Meeting Open to Public.LOCATION:School Board Chambers, Black Awning BuildingCONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

LOCATION:School Board Chambers, Black Awning BuildingCONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

All students in Grades 9, 11, or 12 that has signed up

VPA MUSIC (Jazz concert) – “Roaring 20’s” October 24th, 7pm, VPA Center Mainstage, $5 Adults, Students, & Children. Step back in time to the roaring 20’s where the spirit of the Jazz Age comes alive! Featuring lively swing rhythms, smooth melodies, and classic tunes, our student musicians bring the energy, style, and sparkle of the 1920s to the stage for an unforgettable night of music.

Menu #2

Any Grade 11 or 12 student that needing a reading concordant score

2A District 7 Championships - Hardee Senior

Join Us! Learn, Explore, Plan for your child's future! Discover more possibilities! Two sessions offered: Tuesday, October 27, 2026, and Thursday, October 29, 2026.Zoom Webinar Link: https://sarasotacountyschools.zoom.us/j/85425375190Click to view flyer>> Gifted Parent Opportunity October 2026

Menu #2

Review the testing notice for schedule and preparation information.

VISUAL ART – Print Party & Exhibition October 28th, 5:30-7pm. VPA Center Lobby, free admission. An Art Exhibition highlighting the works of the Visual Art Department with spooky intentions. Experience the Annual Print Party in this event as well, allowing guests to purchase a screen-printed shirt with a one-of-a-kind, student created design

Menu #2

Any student that previously signed up

Join Us! Learn, Explore, Plan for your child's future! Discover more possibilities! Two sessions offered: Tuesday, October 27, 2026, and Thursday, October 29, 2026.Zoom Webinar Link: https://sarasotacountyschools.zoom.us/j/85425375190Click to view flyer>> Gifted Parent Opportunity October 2026

PRODUCTION & DESIGN (Haunted House) – “Carnevil” Friday and Saturday October 30th & 31st, 5-9pm, Sunday November 1st, 1-5pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre, $10 General Admission. Step right up (if you dare!) to this chilling, immersive haunted house experience brought to life entirely by our talented Production & Design students. This live walk-through event twists the excitement of a carnival into a dark, eerie nightmare filled with haunting visuals, spine-tingling effects, and unforgettable scares.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN (Haunted House) – “Carnevil” Friday and Saturday October 30th & 31st, 5-9pm, Sunday November 1st, 1-5pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre, $10 General Admission. Step right up (if you dare!) to this chilling, immersive haunted house experience brought to life entirely by our talented Production & Design students. This live walk-through event twists the excitement of a carnival into a dark, eerie nightmare filled with haunting visuals, spine-tingling effects, and unforgettable scares.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN (Haunted House) – “Carnevil” Friday and Saturday October 30th & 31st, 5-9pm, Sunday November 1st, 1-5pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre, $10 General Admission. Step right up (if you dare!) to this chilling, immersive haunted house experience brought to life entirely by our talented Production & Design students. This live walk-through event twists the excitement of a carnival into a dark, eerie nightmare filled with haunting visuals, spine-tingling effects, and unforgettable scares.

Region 3 Championship

Menu #2

Menu #2

Join us for our third Lunch and Learn session to discuss career and technical education programming. During the session, participants will explore the variety of programming offered to Sarasota County Schools' families. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

Any Grade 11 or 12 student needing a reading concordant score

MUSIC (Classical Concert) – “A Musical Gathering” November 6th, 7pm. VPA Center Mainstage. $15 Adults $5 Students/Children. Gather with our classical ensembles for an evening of music, warmth, and community as we journey through the Fall season. Enjoy timeless works performed by our talented student musicians. Bring your loved ones, settle in, and savor an inspiring night of live classical music.

Menu #2

LOCATION:School Board Chambers, Black Awning BuildingCONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

Menu #2

Menu #2

MUSIC (Modern Band Concert) – “Grunge & Graffiti” November 13th, 7pm. VPA Center Mainstage. $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. Turn up the volume and step into a high-energy performance where raw sound meets bold artistic expression. Featuring gritty anthems, rebellious rhythms, and vibrant, street-inspired visuals, this show celebrates the edge, attitude, and creativity of student musicians ready to make their mark.

2A State Championship Ocala

Menu #2

LOCATION:Venice HS Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Building 5, Venice, FL 34285, USACONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

Menu #2

All Semester 1 US Gov. students

Menu #2

DANCE – “Namesake” Thursday & Friday, November 19th & 20th, 7pm. $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. VPA Center Mainstage. A dance concert honoring where and who we come from using movement to showcase the effect of legacy in our present and future. Experience new and innovative works from local choreographers that highlight the variety of types and textures that play a role in the legacy of the VPA Dance program.

DANCE – “Namesake” Thursday & Friday, November 19th & 20th, 7pm. $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. VPA Center Mainstage. A dance concert honoring where and who we come from using movement to showcase the effect of legacy in our present and future. Experience new and innovative works from local choreographers that highlight the variety of types and textures that play a role in the legacy of the VPA Dance program.

Banks, government offices, and schools may be closed.

Banks, government offices, and schools may be closed.

Banks, government offices, and schools may be closed.

Banks, government offices, and schools may be closed.

Banks, government offices, and schools may be closed.

Check the event notice for hours and location details.

Check the event notice for hours and location details.

Menu #2

December 1st: 9th gradeDecember 2nd: 10th gradeDecember 3rd: Makeups

All Grade 9 students

LOCATION:School Board Chambers, Black Awning BuildingCONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

All Grade 10 students

Saturday - Saturday*begins at subset Dec 4th

Grade 12 students needing a reading concordant score

LOCATION:School Board Chambers, Black Awning BuildingCONTACT:      Mrs. Kathy Tomkins, School Board OfficePhone: (941) 927-9000, Ext. 31147

Grade 11 students needing reading concordant score

Any student needing the EOC for ALG or GEO

THEATRE (Play) – “Little Women!” Thursday thru Saturday, December 10th-12th, 7pm. Sunday December 13th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $17 Adults, $7 Students/Children. During the Civil War, the four March sisters navigate the joys and heartbreaks of growing up. Kate Hamill’s fresh, fast-paced, and bold theatrical reimagining of a timeless classic brings new energy and humor to the beloved classic. Little Women celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the courage to forge your own path.

Any Student needing the EOC for USH or BIO

THEATRE (Play) – “Little Women!” Thursday thru Saturday, December 10th-12th, 7pm. Sunday December 13th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $17 Adults, $7 Students/Children. During the Civil War, the four March sisters navigate the joys and heartbreaks of growing up. Kate Hamill’s fresh, fast-paced, and bold theatrical reimagining of a timeless classic brings new energy and humor to the beloved classic. Little Women celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the courage to forge your own path.

THEATRE (Play) – “Little Women!” Thursday thru Saturday, December 10th-12th, 7pm. Sunday December 13th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $17 Adults, $7 Students/Children. During the Civil War, the four March sisters navigate the joys and heartbreaks of growing up. Kate Hamill’s fresh, fast-paced, and bold theatrical reimagining of a timeless classic brings new energy and humor to the beloved classic. Little Women celebrates sisterhood, resilience, and the courage to forge your own path.

No School - Students / 186 Staff

Join us for our fourth Lunch and Learn session to discuss how to develop math thinking to support strong algebraic understanding. During the session, participants will explore ways to support foundational skills and beginning algebra concepts at the elementary level. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

MUSIC – “Death by Chocolate: Sweet Resolutions” January 15th & 16th 7pm. VPA Center Theatre Lobby & Mainstage, $15 General Admission. Start the new year on a sweet note! Enjoy a pre-show celebration in the theatre lobby featuring our small ensembles, solo performances and lots of sweet treats.  Then, gather in the theatre to enjoy our large ensembles as you look ahead to a brand-new year filled with limitless possibilities!

MUSIC – “Death by Chocolate: Sweet Resolutions” January 15th & 16th 7pm. VPA Center Theatre Lobby & Mainstage, $15 General Admission. Start the new year on a sweet note! Enjoy a pre-show celebration in the theatre lobby featuring our small ensembles, solo performances and lots of sweet treats.  Then, gather in the theatre to enjoy our large ensembles as you look ahead to a brand-new year filled with limitless possibilities!

FILM & ANIMATION (Sound Stage Event) – “All Access” January 29th 7pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre, $5 General Admission. Ever wanted to see how a movie is made? Step behind the scenes and onto the screen for an immersive event, becoming a part of the action as audience participants during a live film shoot. See through the director’s lens and see the production process of a feature film in the making.

Check the school calendar for observance details and any schedule changes.

Join us for our fifth Lunch and Learn session to discuss the many opportunities Sarasota County has to offer families. During the session, explore free and low cost activities for students and families. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

VISUAL ART (Exhibition) – “Dimensions of Space”February 10th, 5:30-7pm. VPA Center Lobby, free admission. Our level 2 Visual Arts students present dynamic three-dimensional work exploring form, structure, and perspective.

Check the announcement for recognition details and timing.

THEATRE – “Theatrefest: Green Rooms & Solo Plays” February 18th-20th, 7pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre. $5 General Admission. A theatrical celebration highlighting the progress of our VPA Theatre students in a format called Greenrooms. Our Level 3 students spend a semester writing expressive and personal 10-minute solo plays, that they will present for the first time to the public in our Studio Theatre.

THEATRE – “Theatrefest: Green Rooms & Solo Plays” February 18th-20th, 7pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre. $5 General Admission. A theatrical celebration highlighting the progress of our VPA Theatre students in a format called Greenrooms. Our Level 3 students spend a semester writing expressive and personal 10-minute solo plays, that they will present for the first time to the public in our Studio Theatre.

THEATRE – “Theatrefest: Green Rooms & Solo Plays” February 18th-20th, 7pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre. $5 General Admission. A theatrical celebration highlighting the progress of our VPA Theatre students in a format called Greenrooms. Our Level 3 students spend a semester writing expressive and personal 10-minute solo plays, that they will present for the first time to the public in our Studio Theatre.

DANCE (Student Choreography Showcase) February 26th, 6:30pm. VPA Center Studio Theatre, Free. A celebration of movement, creativity, and growth, featuring original student choreography that showcases bold ideas, fresh voices, and the spirit of exploration

Join us for our sixth Lunch and Learn session to discuss how to implement mindfulness with your children. During the session, participants will gain learn and practice three types of mindfulness that are easy to begin with children. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

VISUAL ARTS (Gallery Show) – “Organized Chaos” March 10th, 5;30-7pm. An exhibition dedicated to the often messy yet always profound process of making art. Featuring works of all levels of the VPA Visual Arts Department, the gallery walls will be filled with expression and skill of talented and creative student artists.

Review the academic calendar for grading period dates and report card timing.

MUSIC (Modern Band Concert) – “Live & Loud!” March 11th, 7pm. VPA Center Mainstage. $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. Get ready to turn up the volume as our Modern Band students take the stage with high-energy performances of rock, pop, and everything in between. It’s a night of electrifying music, bold talent, and unforgettable live sound.

No School Students / 186 Staff

School closed for spring break. Check camp and childcare plans.

No School

No School

DANCE & JAZZ COLLABORATION – “Playing the Fool” April 1st-3rd, 7pm. VPA Center Main Stage. $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. A first of its kind on our stage, this concert features the fusion of live music and movement in a collaborative encounter. Bouncing between the comedic foolery and the deceptive idiom, Playing the Fool explores all sides of the human experience as dance and jazz intertwine to tell new stories.

DANCE & JAZZ COLLABORATION – “Playing the Fool” April 1st-3rd, 7pm. VPA Center Main Stage. $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. A first of its kind on our stage, this concert features the fusion of live music and movement in a collaborative encounter. Bouncing between the comedic foolery and the deceptive idiom, Playing the Fool explores all sides of the human experience as dance and jazz intertwine to tell new stories.

Join us for our seventh Lunch and Learn session to discuss practical ways to support financial understanding with your children. During the session, participants will learn key concepts ways to teach them in each age group. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

Return to Booker High School approx 2:00 am - 3:00 am

No School

THEATER (Musical) – “A Chorus Line Teen Edition” April 22nd-24th, 7pm, Sunday, April 25th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. In a fiercely competitive Broadway audition, a group of dancers fights for a coveted spot in the chorus, revealing the powerful and deeply personal journeys that brought them there.

THEATER (Musical) – “A Chorus Line Teen Edition” April 22nd-24th, 7pm, Sunday, April 25th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. In a fiercely competitive Broadway audition, a group of dancers fights for a coveted spot in the chorus, revealing the powerful and deeply personal journeys that brought them there.

THEATER (Musical) – “A Chorus Line Teen Edition” April 22nd-24th, 7pm, Sunday, April 25th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. In a fiercely competitive Broadway audition, a group of dancers fights for a coveted spot in the chorus, revealing the powerful and deeply personal journeys that brought them there.

THEATER (Musical) – “A Chorus Line Teen Edition” April 22nd-24th, 7pm, Sunday, April 25th, 2pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $22 Adults, $12 Students/Children. In a fiercely competitive Broadway audition, a group of dancers fights for a coveted spot in the chorus, revealing the powerful and deeply personal journeys that brought them there.

Check the official notice for observance details and any schedule changes.

MUSIC (CLASSICAL Concert) – “Press Play” April 30th, 7pm. VPA Center Mainstage, $15 Adults, $5 Students/Children. Our classical ensembles bring the worlds of television and video games to life with all of the unforgettable themes, cinematic masterpieces, and nostalgic classics that you will surely recognize and enjoy! So, grab your controller, and Press Play!

Check the recognition notice for observance details and activities.

Join us for our final Lunch and Learn session of the 2026-2027 school year. We will discuss how to use summer chores as a way to teach independence to children. During the session, participants will explore how chores support independence and discuss chores appropriate to each age group. To register for this and other Lunch and Learn sessions, please visit: 2026-2027 Virtual Lunch and Learn Registration – Fill out form

Check the event notice for ceremony details and honoree information.

Review the event notice for department assignment and details.

Review the event notice for department assignment and details.

Review the event notice for department assignment and details.

Review the event notice for department assignment and details.

FILM & ANIMATION (Showcase) – “Sight & Sound” May 18th, 7pm. Lakewood Ranch Cinemas $10 General Admission. Experience original live action and animated films celebrating storytelling through captivating visuals, creative sound design, and the artistry of student filmmakers.

VPA ALL DEPARTMENTS - Silver Cord Ceremony VPA Center Mainstage. May 19th, 6:30pm. A celebration of our graduating Visual & Performing Arts seniors who have poured their hearts into their artistry. Through countless rehearsals, performances, exhibitions, and creative risks, these students have shaped our stages, studios, and school community. The silver cord represents their talent, dedication, and the unforgettable mark they leave behind as they take their next step beyond high school.