Can I miss school for my religious holiday?

Usually, yes. Most schools excuse absences for religious holidays, and many states require it. You’ll likely need a note from a parent ahead of time, and you’ll still need to make up the work. Tell your teachers early, especially if there’s a test. Missing a day for Eid or Yom Kippur isn’t skipping. It’s showing up somewhere else.

1 · MindWhat people believe, and how they know

The rules depend on your state and your school district. Most treat a religious holiday as an excused absence, the same as being sick. Some large districts, like New York City’s, now close school for Eid, Lunar New Year and Diwali, along with Christmas.

Your school handbook is the place to check. Look for words like “religious observance” or “excused absences.” Teachers usually have to let you make up tests and homework.

2 · HeartWhat it feels like

It can feel weird to explain your holiday to a teacher, or to be the only kid who’s out. You might worry about falling behind, or about people asking questions.

Your holiday matters. Being with your family for it is part of growing up, too.

Somewhere today, a kid is missing a math test to stand next to their grandmother at prayer. We think both of those count as an education.Neighbor Radio

3 · HandsHow to be a good neighbor

Ask a parent to write a note or email the school a week or more ahead. Tell each teacher yourself, too: “I’ll be out on Tuesday for Yom Kippur. Can I make up the quiz?” Ask a friend to save you notes. And if a classmate is out for their holiday, save notes for them.

This weekLook at your school calendar for this year. Find one holiday on it that isn’t yours, and ask a classmate who celebrates it what they do.

Four questions to take with you

From Jesus' story of the Good Samaritan, about the stranger who stopped to help. We call it the Samaritan Test.

1. Did they see? Or look right past?
2. Did they stop? Even when it was inconvenient?
3. Did it cost them? Time, money, comfort, reputation?
4. Did they treat the person like a person? Not like a label?

Try it on: when a classmate is out for a holiday you don’t know, do you notice, or do you ask?

Quick questions

What if my teacher says no?

Ask a school counselor or the principal, and have a parent call. Most schools have a clear rule that protects you.

What if my holiday isn’t on the school calendar?

You can still ask. Schools excuse lots of holidays that aren’t printed on the calendar.

Do I have to explain my religion?

No. “It’s a religious holiday for my family” is enough. You can share more if you want.