Calendars Decide More Than Dates

Most people think a calendar is just a neutral tool for tracking school days, holidays, and deadlines. But calendars actually reflect decisions about whose traditions and rhythms matter most. Around the world, different communities celebrate important days at different times, meaning not all holidays fall on the same date each year. This can make it hard for schools to decide which days to officially recognize.

Each school year, some celebrations or cultural traditions are not included in the official calendar, which can affect families and students. Educators and school leaders make choices about which holidays to include and which to leave out, often based on historical or logistical reasons. These decisions influence attendance, family participation, and whether students feel their traditions are respected. Understanding how calendars are built helps students consider fairness and inclusivity in community planning.

Your Task:
Imagine you are part of a student advisory group helping your school review its academic calendar. Some students and families have asked the school to better recognize a celebration or holiday that isn’t currently on the official calendar, like the Lunar New Year.

Step 1: Do a quick Google search of your city’s demographics, like nationalities, religion and any other information that can help you understand your community better. Next, choose a specific community and research cultural celebrations they honor that are not currently recognized as official holidays.
Hint: You can find out which holidays are widely recognized by looking at calendars on your phone and computer.

Step 2. Choose a celebration that you think should be recognized as a school holiday.

Step 3. Write a 30-60 second speech where you recommend the proposed holiday to the advisory group, providing enough information about how you’ve arrived at your decision and how this will impact your school.

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