It is the policy of Teachers College to respect its members’ observance of their major religious holidays. Where academic scheduling conflicts prove unavoidable, students will not be penalized for absences due to religious reasons, and course instructors will work with students on alternative means for satisfying academic requirements. If students and instructors cannot reach a suitable arrangement, they should consult the appropriate Program Director or Department Chair. If necessary, students or instructors may take the matter to the Office of the Provost for additional appeal.
Some of the major holidays occurring during the academic year are: Good Friday, Id al Adha, Id al Fitr, Passover (first two and last two days), Rosh Hashanah, Shemini Atzeret, Shavuoth, Simchat Torah, Succoth (first two days) and Yom Kippur.
Jewish and Islamic holy days begin at sundown of the preceding day.
The Office of the Provost and Dean of the College requests that faculty members who will miss classes for religious observances notify their Department Chair in advance. They should also announce missed class sessions on their syllabi. In such cases, faculty members may either make arrangements for another course instructor to cover the missed class or schedule a makeup session at a time convenient to students.
Responsible Office: Provost
Last Updated March 25, 2016
Last Edited September 2023