This calendar of Jewish holidays has been prepared by the JCRC of Greater Washington as an aid for planning and scheduling events (tests, examinations, assemblies, conferences, athletic events, tournaments, open houses, registrations, etc.) in an attempt to minimize conflicts that involve the absence of Jewish students and personnel. Click on the image below see more and for a printable version.
For more in-depth Jewish calendars, visit Hebcal.
Tips for schools to accommodate students religious needs:
- Students must be given excused absences to meet religious obligations, and reasonable accommodations must be made for students to make up missed work.
- Recognizing and accommodating religious and cultural observances when planning class schedules and major school events sends an inclusive message to staff, faculty, parents, and their children, and allows schools to respectfully honor the cultural and religious diversity of the entire school community.
- Jewish holy days fall on different dates from year to year within the Gregorian calendar. Traditional celebration of Jewish holy days calls for abstaining from work, school and other everyday activities while participating in religious observances. Jewish holidays begin at sunset on the evening preceding the holiday.
- Schools should avoid scheduling tests or having major assignments due on the day immediately following one of the major religious holidays. Due to religious practice and family demands, many students are unable to dedicate schoolwork/study time during the religious holiday. Missing school for religious holidays should not result in students feeling excluded, stigmatized or academically disadvantaged.
If you need support advocating for yourself or your student, please reach out to Sara Winkelman, Director of Education Programs and Services.
We are pleased to share the interfaith calendar created by our colleagues at the Interfaith Council of Greater Washington. We hope this is helpful in being an ally to other religious minorities.