This message is being sent to all Foothill-De Anza District employees.
Dear Foothill-De Anza Community,
As we prepare for the start of the 2026 Fall Quarter, we want to acknowledge that
the first day of instruction coincides with Yom Kippur, one of the holiest days in
the Jewish faith. We recognize the significance of this observance for many members
of our community and are committed to ensuring that students and employees who choose
to observe Yom Kippur are supported and accommodated.
Over the past several weeks, members of our community have shared concerns regarding
this overlap. We appreciate those who took the time to raise these concerns and engage
in thoughtful dialogue. Their feedback has helped inform our efforts to ensure that
appropriate accommodations and support are in place.
The academic calendar for the Foothill-De Anza Community College District is developed
through a collaborative process that balances a variety of requirements, including
instructional schedules, state regulations, collective bargaining agreements, and
timelines established by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. Prior
to adopting the current calendar, alternative start-date options were reviewed; however,
those alternatives presented significant challenges related to instructional operations,
state compliance requirements, and approval timelines. As a result, the published
calendar will remain in place.
To support members of our community observing Yom Kippur, the district and both colleges
will implement the following measures:
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Students will be informed in advance that they will not be dropped from classes for non-attendance on the first day of instruction due to religious observance of Yom Kippur.
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Faculty will receive guidance regarding first-week attendance and drop procedures, along with information about accommodating students who are observing the holiday.
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Employees who wish to observe Yom Kippur may utilize appropriate leave in accordance with district procedures and work with their supervisors to arrange coverage as needed.
Foothill-De Anza is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful
environment that honors the diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and traditions of our community.
We will also continue to consider opportunities for future calendar planning that
further reflect the diversity of our community while balancing the operational, regulatory,
and contractual requirements that guide the academic calendar process.
We appreciate the understanding, partnership, and collaboration of our students and
employees as we work together to ensure a supportive beginning to the academic year
for all.
Sincerely,
Lee D. Lambert
Chancellor and CEO
12345 El Monte Road
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022-4599
650.949.6100
650.941.1638 (fax)
Executive Assistant: Carla Maitland
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