School Board Proposes New Calendar Recognizing Jewish and Muslim Holidays for 2026-2027

St. Louis Park Schools are set to enhance cultural inclusivity in their academic calendar following a recent School Board Business Meeting. The administration proposed a new calendar that recognizes significant Jewish and Muslim holidays, allowing for two non-instructional days and two instructional days dedicated to cultural education.

The plan aims to honor the diverse backgrounds of students and staff, fostering empathy and understanding among peers. The administration's recommendation includes observing Yom Kippur as a non-instructional day on October 2, while Rosh Hashanah will be integrated into the curriculum on September 23. Additionally, the calendar will recognize Eid al-Fitr on March 10 and Eid al-Adha on May 17, with corresponding adjustments to ensure students do not miss critical instructional time.

During the meeting, board members discussed the implications of the proposed calendar, including the potential impact on testing schedules and the importance of maximizing instructional days before assessments. The administration emphasized the need for community input, which was gathered from a small group that expressed support for observing one holiday from each faith.

The board is considering two calendar options for the 2026-2027 school year, with one option allowing for three observed holidays. However, concerns were raised about the timing of the school year, particularly regarding the start date in relation to Labor Day. Some board members advocated for starting school earlier to provide more instructional days before testing.

As the board continues to refine the calendar, they are committed to ongoing stakeholder engagement and will revisit the proposed changes in future meetings. The administration's efforts reflect a broader commitment to racial equity and cultural awareness within the St. Louis Park educational community, aiming to create a more inclusive environment for all students.