John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
The Faculty Senate voted to adjust the start dates of certain academic years that conflict with the onset of Yom Kippur or Rosh Hashanah.
The resolution, approved by the Faculty Senate, will now see the academic year begin on Tuesday instead of the traditional Monday start date for academic years 2026-27, 2036-37, and 2050-51 to avoid classes beginning on Yom Kippur or Rosh Hashanah.
Kate Maher, chair of the Committee on Undergraduate Standards and Policies, highlighted the compromise made to balance the observance of holidays with minimizing impacts on the academic calendar, stating, "This last piece is really important because it reflects a compromise that was made between honoring the observance of the holidays and minimizing the impacts to the academic calendar."
Speaking on the considerations made during the decision-making process, David K. Stevenson, chair of the Committee of Graduate Studies, explained, "We considered really carefully these different options...because of the infrequency of these conflicts which we mapped out, this was the most reasonable solution."
Acknowledging concerns about the impact on instruction time, Brian Conrad, a professor of mathematics, expressed worries about the potential effects on STEM courses, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong foundation for students.
Deborah Hensler, a Jewish faculty member, emphasized the symbolic significance of accommodating religious observances within the academic calendar, stating, "There is a symbolic effect of this when you're in a community and the community chooses to take [the first day of the academic calendar for instruction] ... and it is the most important day of your religion."
President Richard Saller addressed the broader campus climate, noting the university's efforts to plan for the management of activities during Admit Weekend amidst national protests, ensuring the safety of the campus and continuity of academic operations.
The adjustments to the academic calendar were made with careful consideration of various factors, including the impact on different courses and religious observances, reflecting the university's commitment to inclusivity and accommodation of diverse religious practices.
Alerts Sign-up