Navigating classes during the holidays can be challenging for Jewish college students, particularly if your school does not have formal accommodations in place. Clear and proactive communication with your professors is key to observing the holidays while staying on track academically. This guide offers step-by-step guidance, email templates, and best practices to help you communicate confidently, manage your coursework, and maintain positive relationships with your professors.
The email template below provides a starting point you can personalize, along with key elements to always include in your message. Use it as a guide to make sure your email is professional, concise, and sets you up for a positive response
Dear [Professor/Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing to let you know that I will be absent from class on [insert date(s)] in observance of the Jewish holiday(s) of [insert name of holiday].
I am committed to keeping up with the course material and will make sure to review notes and assignments from the day(s) I miss. If there are particular steps you recommend to stay on track or any materials you would like me to review, I would greatly appreciate your guidance. Please also let me know if there will be any time-sensitive assignments or assessments, not included in the syllabus, that you are planning for those dates so I can plan accordingly.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Best,
[Your name]
e.g., “Absence for Jewish Holidays,” “Upcoming Absence from Class,” “Absence Notification”
Address your professor respectfully (e.g., Dear Professor [Last Name]).
Specify the exact holiday dates you will be out.
State that it is for observance of Jewish holidays — e.g. “Passover”. (No need to over-explain).
Mention that you’ll review notes, complete assignments, and stay on track.
Ask if there are materials, discussions, or assessments you should be aware of and whether you should submit work early or after.
Frame your request as proactive, showing you want to stay engaged.
Thank them for their understanding and flexibility.
If you haven’t heard back from your professor, a good rule of thumb is to follow up one week or 3-5 school days after your initial email was sent.
Dear [Professor/Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up regarding my email from [date] about my upcoming absence on [insert date(s)] in observance of the Jewish holiday(s) of [insert holiday name].
I am committed to keeping up with class material and completing all assignments. If there are specific steps you recommend for staying on track or any time-sensitive work I should be aware of, I would greatly appreciate your guidance.
Thank you again for your time and understanding.
Best,
[Your Name]