Religious Observance
Students who are unable, because of their sincerely religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in an examination, class, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from the class, study, or work requirement and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up the examination, study, or work they may have missed consistent with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 151C, Section 2B. That law states:
Any student in an educational or vocational training institution, other than a religious or a denominational educational or vocational training institution, who is unable, because of his/her religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from any such examination or study or work requirement, and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up such examination, study, or work missed because of such absence on any particular day, provided, however, that such makeup examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school. No fees of any kind shall be charged by the institution for making available to the said student such opportunity. No adverse or prejudicial effect shall result to any student because of his/her availing himself of the provisions of the sections.
Questions about absences for religious observance should be directed to the professor.
Deadlines and Events
Students observing a holiday or event that may affect when they can submit assignments or participate in class should inform their professors in advance. This is particularly important if the observance involves evening commitments or work obligations that could make it difficult to meet deadlines. Professors must be able to provide some flexibility with due dates or class participation.
Observances
For some religious observances, students may not be able to do assignments, use technology, or even attend classes on certain days. If this is the case, students should talk to their professors as soon as possible. Students should work with their professors to find solutions that work for everyone, such as alternative assignments or different test arrangements.
Open Communication
Professors are here to help students. If a student is worried about balancing their observances with classes, exams, or other school commitments, they should not hesitate to talk to them directly. The sooner students communicate their concerns, the better professors can work with them.