Expectations for Eid al-Fitr in HCPSS Schools and Offices

March 29th, 2025

The school system values the diverse religious and cultural community we have in Howard County. We are sad that we had to make an adjustment to the calendar and use March 31 as a make-up day for inclement weather, resulting in complications for our Muslim community. We apologize that our communications about the changes related to March 31, and specifically related to Eid al-Fitr, have been incomplete and lacking empathy. We ask for our Muslim community’s grace as we continue to strive to give our students and staff the opportunity to honor and celebrate their culture and religion with families.

While HCPSS schools will be open for students this Monday, March 31, it is important that our Muslim neighbors can celebrate Eid al-Fitr without concern of having an unexcused absence and missing important instruction at school. For that reason, several expectations are in place for March 31, including:

• All student absences for religious purposes are considered lawful absences and are excused.
• Tests and quizzes will not be given on that date, and no graded assignments will be due.
• Students will be excused from any scheduled extracurricular activities.

While students do not need to fill out the request for religious observation form for March 31, a parent/guardian should submit a note to the school clarifying their student was absent to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

We will continue to strive for schools and offices that value the cultures and religions of all students, staff and families.