Muslim bill vetoed by board

May 27, 2009 - The topic of having two Muslim holidays, Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, taken off the school calendar  was brought before the Region 16 Board of Education.

   The meeting started with an opportunity to speak. Subjects pertaining to the topic were discussed not-the-least being the fear of "playing favorites" or appearing to favor one religion over another. The Jewish community spoke up and admonished the board for not considering  the most sacred Jewish holiday, Yom Kippur, an acceptable day off from school.

     In past years athletic contests, picture days, and big tests have been scheduled on Yom Kippur causing a conundrum for the Jewish student--do I choose my sports and those commitments I have, or choose my religious beliefs?

   The Board agreed to consider and look into making scheduling restrictions for high holy days, therefore making it so that tests and sports games cannot be scheduled on holidays for any religion. But that  concession may be harder than it sounds. Sports tournaments are often made a year in advance, and scheduling for school pictures is reserved early as well.

   The board considered the Muslim holiday bill but ultimately vetoed the it.       

    One board member said, about the policy, “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.”

  They then congratulated the Student Council for all the hard work they put into this, and they appreciated the interest.

   Though the Muslim holiday bill was not granted the board's approval, the Student Council is still very proud of their work.