Los Angeles Unified School District
Board of Education
Karla Griego
Board Member, Board District 5
News Release
CONTACT Rosa Jimenez,
Phone: (213) 241-5555
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 11, 2025
LAUSD Recognizes and Celebrates the Month of Ramadan for our Muslim students and families
Los Angeles (March 11, 2025) - The Governing Board of the Los Angeles Unified School District passed a resolution today, sponsored by Board Member Karla Griego and co-sponsored by President Scott M. Schmerelson. The resolution was also co-sponsored by Board Members Kelly Gonez, Dr. Rocío Rivas, and Sherlett Hendy Newbill, and Student Board Member Anely Cortez Lopez, and unanimously approved by all board members.
The resolution celebrates and recognizes the month of Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar that holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide, emphasizing fasting, prayer and charity. The resolution acknowledges that this year Ramadan will begin on February 28, 2025 and end on March 28 or March 29, 2025, but that every year the LAUSD will send a bulletin to staff and to families every year prior to the beginning of Ramadan to clarify our commitment to those who choose to observe Ramadan.
The annual bulletin will remind students, staff, and families of the significance of Ramadan and provide guidance and include suggestions for how school can support students during this month including identifying and providing a comfortable space for Muslim students to go instead of the dedicated lunchroom and providing the fasting student athletes the option of lighter activities or allow for occasional breaks. The bulletin would also state that the district will support staff looking for opportunities to provide a brief lesson about Ramadan to promote inclusivity and understanding and working with educators and staff to offer necessary flexibility for Muslim students and families who request to be excused from school for the Eid al Fitr holiday.
“In a District that is as diverse as ours, it is important that we lead in demonstrating awareness, sensitivity and inclusion of all cultures, ethnicities and practices,” said Board Member Karla Griego. “For our Muslim students and families, Ramadan is a month-long observance that requires a commitment during the school day. By recognizing and supporting our Muslim students as they celebrate Ramadan, we are modeling what it is to be a welcoming and inclusive school district. BD 5 in particular, has a significant number of Muslim students who will be observing Ramadan. I am proud to ensure that through this resolution, every year moving forward, our District will ensure that there are protocols in place to support our students as they observe this special season for them.”
“As we recognize Ramadan, we celebrate the values of reflection, compassion, and community that this sacred month embodies,” said Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho. “Our schools are enriched by the diverse traditions and cultures of our students, families, and staff, and we honor those observing Ramadan with understanding and support. May this month bring peace, growth, and unity to all who celebrate.”
"When we support our Muslim students, employees, and families during Ramadan, we model respect, empathy, and understanding during this important time", said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. "We are proud to ensure that our schools are safe places for everyone."
“Ramadan Mubarak to our students, families, and staff,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “We are grateful for our Muslim communities and look forward to deepening the ways we support our Muslim students as they fast during the month of Ramadan – this year and in future years.”
“Board District 1 wishes Ramadan Mubarak to all who celebrate Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and community for Muslims in observance of the month when the Quran was revealed,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“Creating an inclusive environment where all students feel respected, supported, and valued is essential to their well-being and success", said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. "By embracing this resolution, LAUSD demonstrates leadership in fostering a community where diversity is honored and every student has the opportunity to thrive.”
“LAUSD’s diversity is our strength, and by supporting the needs of Muslim students to honor their faith and encouraging schools to include lessons on the cultural and religious practices of Ramadan, we foster a more inclusive and respectful learning environment for all students, staff, and families,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin.
"As we honor our students, staff and families who observe Ramadan, we affirm our commitment to creating safe, inclusive learning environments where every community member is respected, supported, and uplifted to thrive," said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
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