Broward County middle school students could see their school days extended by 10 minutes next year to accommodate a new holiday recognizing Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.
While the proposal has not yet been formally approved, the Broward School Board has expressed general support for the change, with a final decision expected on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
The additional 10 minutes per day, increasing the middle school day from 6 hours and 30 minutes to 6 hours and 40 minutes, would make up for the day off granted to celebrate Diwali, a significant holiday observed by over a billion people worldwide, including approximately 50,000 Broward County residents.
Elementary and high school schedules will remain unchanged, with elementary students attending school for six hours and high schoolers for seven hours daily.
The proposed calendar would also ensure that schools conclude the first semester before winter break while maintaining a full week off for Thanksgiving. If approved, the 2025–26 school year would begin on August 11, the earliest start allowed under state law, and end on June 3, 2026.
The initiative to recognize Diwali follows a petition launched by the Coalition of Hindus of North America, advocating for the holiday’s inclusion in Broward County’s academic calendar. “Diwali is one of the most popular, sacred, and ancient festivals celebrated by over 1 billion people,” the coalition stated. “Declaring Diwali as a school holiday would provide an opportunity for families, especially those from low-income backgrounds, to partake fully in the festivities without conflicting demands from work or school. It also demonstrates Broward County’s commitment to honoring the diverse practices and beliefs of its residents.”
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India and among Hindu communities worldwide. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The proposal aligns with Broward’s emphasis on celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity.
