Jewish Holidays Affect Academic Schedule

By Rachel Hyman ‘27
At GOA, a Jewish holiday also signifies a day off for prayer and celebration or reflection. However, broken school schedules can affect our ability to learn and progress. 

According to a study of 700,000 students in Oregon, academics decreased as a four-day school week was adopted. Drops in test scores also accompanied these changes.
    In October of 2024, GOA had a total of nine days off, and one early dismissal. This diminished class time is welcomed by many for the sake of the holidays, but also can be frustrating to some who are trying to catch up academically.
On the other hand, days off can lessen students' stress surrounding academics. Having a “pause” in the school week can be instrumental in decreasing anxieties surrounding school work and improving mental health.
    Sophomore Leo Milch said, “I like having days off from school to celebrate the holidays, but it’s difficult to get work done over the breaks.” 
Other students, however, believe that days off do not interfere with the workload.
Sophomore Avi  Kutten says, ” I don’t think that our academics are affected by our holiday breaks because the school gives us multiple opportunities to do our homework without having to use the holidays as study time.”