Religious Observance Policy

At Ithaca College we uphold the diverse religious and spiritual traditions - each with their own set of beliefs, practices, and observances that are part of our community. To this end we make a reasonable effort to support students seeking an accommodation for religious observance.

Excerpt from the College's Attendance Policy: In accordance with New York State Education Law (Section 224-a), students who miss class due to their religious beliefs shall be excused from class or examinations on that day. The faculty member is responsible for providing the student with an equivalent opportunity to make up any examination, study, or work requirement that the student may have missed. Any such work is to be completed within a reasonable time frame, as determined by the faculty member.

A few suggestions:

  • Notify your course instructors at at the beginning of the semester with anticipated absences so that proper arrangements may be made to make up any missed work or examination. The student should consult their academic dean if an instructor is unable or unwilling to grant the request.
  • See sample email below to request an accommodation from your professor.
Sample Email to Professor for Classroom Religious Accommodation

Subject: Religious Accommodation for [Course Number]

Dear Professor [last name],

I am enrolled in your course [course number]. I identify as an observing [religious affiliation], and I am writing to request that you make accommodation for my religious observance this semester in accordance with the college's attendance policy. On [enter date or dates] we will be observing [name of holiday]. This observance coincides with [name of assignment] that is listed on the syllabus.

I would like to work with you to explore how I can meet the requirements of your course while still honoring my religious practice. One option that I would propose is [enter request]. I would also be open to any other suggestions that you might have.

If it would be easier, I would be happy to talk with you about this further in person or by phone.

Should you have any questions about the reasoning or observance of this [name of religious holiday], please feel free to contact Lauren Kelly Benson, Director of Religious and Spiritual Life, at lkbenson@ithaca.edu.

Thank you in advance for accommodating my request.

Sincerely,

[Name, phone number optional]