Dear District Leadership,

As the Jewish High Holidays quickly approach, thank you for your continued partnership in ensuring that all students are supported in practicing their faith without academic penalty.

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Sunday, September 22 and concludes the evening of Tuesday, September 24. Yom Kippur begins the evening of Tuesday, October 1 and ends at sundown on Wednesday, October 2. Many Jewish students will be out of school on these days in observance of the holidays.

We respectfully request the following:

• No new work, tests, or major assignments be scheduled on Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur so students do not have to choose between school and their religious observance

• Students who miss school for the holidays be marked as out for a “religious observation day” and not simply counted as absent

Because students observing these holidays are not permitted to study or complete homework during the time of observance, we also ask that this be taken into account when scheduling due dates for homework, tests, or projects in the days immediately following the holidays.

ADL will encourage families to notify teachers and school staff early if there is a conflict. We know this heads up can help prevent confusion, missed assignments, or grade issues, especially since some accommodations are left to individual school discretion.

Please ensure that this letter and the information included are shared with principals, teachers, and counselors across the district to support consistent awareness and implementation.

Your support in sharing this guidance is deeply appreciated and goes a long way in making Jewish students and families feel seen, respected, and supported.

Thank you again for your commitment to inclusivity.

Warmly,

 

Randi Sonenshein
Senior Regional Director, Texas and Oklahoma