ÌÇÐÄvlog¾«Æ·

Religious Holy Day and Spiritual Observance Policy

Approver:
Academic Coordinating Committee
Policy Owner:
Vice-President, Academic
Policy Lead(s):
Vice-President, Academic
Effective date:
2014-03-15
Date of last approval:
2024-01-31
Status:
Approved

Policy Statement

ÌÇÐÄvlog¾«Æ· provides an inclusive working and learning environment. The College recognizes that religious holy days or recognized days of spiritual observances may, at times, conflict with academic requirements. This policy is intended to ensure that students who want to observe recognized religious holy days or days of spiritual observances are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities in the accommodation of students' religious or spiritual observances.

Scope

This policy applies to students in all programs and courses.

Definitions

ÌÇÐÄvlog¾«Æ· maintains a glossary of terms specific to the institution. The ones in use for this document are defined below.

Day of Spiritual Observance
A day specified for spiritual observance.
Holy Day
A day when a religious festival or holiday is observed.
Recognized Religious Holiday
Conestoga recognizes all religious holidays as defined by the College Employer Council

Policy

Students are permitted by Conestoga to be absent from class to observe a recognized religious holy day or day of spiritual observance. This reflects Conestoga’s commitment to being responsive to our increasing diversity and to enabling students’ spiritual development.

Any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in any examination, study, or work requirement on a particular day or days because of their religious or spiritual beliefs must be given the opportunity to make up the work that was missed or to do alternative work that is intrinsically no more difficult than the original exam or assignment. Upon written request and timely notice, students shall be provided reasonable accommodation.

Revision Log

2014-02-04Policy and Procedure Committee
2014-03-05Academic Coordinating Committee
2020-01-29Academic Forum
2020-02-07Academic Coordinating Committee
2024-01-24Academic Forum
2024-01-31Academic Coordinating Committee
Religious Holy Day and Spiritual Observance Policy