Ramadan is a month-long holiday for Muslims that serves as a time of self-reflection and strengthening their relationship with God. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the dates of Ramadan are dictated by the lunar cycle, beginning and ending with a crescent moon. This religious holiday involves fasting, praying and being around loved ones.

A commemoration of Muhammad’s first revelation, Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Observant Muslim students and staff will fast from dawn to sunset each day (typically 15 hours) and partake in evening prayer services. This time of fasting is also a time for reflection, self-improvement, increased religious devotion, and charitable actions. As a result of extensive fasting and evening prayer services, Muslim students may find it challenging to partake in strenuous physical activities (including physical education class) or school-related events involving meals (including lunch).

The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a three-day celebration that will begin on Thursday, March 19. Eid al-Fitr is an important Islamic holiday that involves waking up early and praying either at an outdoor prayer ground or a mosque. Many Muslims dress in their finest clothes and decorate their houses with lights and ornaments. Special foods are prepared, and friends or relatives are invited to share in the feast. Gifts and cards are exchanged and children receive presents. 

D39 recognizes that students who observe Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr will have limited time and energy to study and do homework during this time and may require accommodations.