The Banner reported on the backlash after Montgomery County and Prince George’s County Public Schools scheduled March 20 — Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan — as a makeup day for snow closures.
The district offered excused absences for students celebrating the holiday, but county council members, including Will Jawando, argued this was insufficient.
“Muslim students and families should not be forced to choose between their faith and education, any more than we would ask that of families observing Christmas, Yom Kippur or any other religious holiday.”
— Will Jawando, as quoted in The Banner
School officials cited state requirements to operate 180 instructional days annually, while state lawmakers are developing legislation to provide greater scheduling flexibility for weather-related closures. Howard County faced similar controversy last year and subsequently apologized for the decision.