Texas Tech University

 

[Date changed–posted 2/3/23 (last revised 5/4/16)]
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Operating Policy and Procedure

OP 34.19: Student Absence for Observance of Religious Holy Day

DATE: February 3, 2023

PURPOSE: The purpose of this Operating Policy/Procedure (OP) is to ensure understanding and a standardized approach to handling student absence for observance of a religious holy day.

REVIEW: This OP will be reviewed in April of even-numbered years by the Vice Provost for Academic Innovation and Student Success with substantive revisions presented to the Provost and Senior Vice President.

POLICY/PROCEDURE

1.  “Religious holy day” means a holy day observed by a religion whose places of worship are exempt from property taxation under Texas Tax Code § 11.20.

2.  A student who intends to observe a religious holy day should make that intention known in writing to the instructor prior to the absence. A student who is absent from classes for the observance of a religious holy day shall be allowed to take an examination or complete an assignment scheduled for that day within a reasonable time after the absence.

3.  A student who is excused under section 2 may not be penalized for the absence; however, the instructor may respond appropriately if the student fails to complete the assignment satisfactorily.

Operating Policies & Procedures