are colleges open on columbus day

Are Colleges Open on Columbus Day? A Look at Higher Education Schedules

Columbus Day, observed on the second Monday of October, often raises the question of whether colleges and universities remain open. The answer is usually: it depends. Many colleges and universities do not hold classes on Columbus Day, while others maintain their regular schedules.

Whether or not a college is open usually hinges on its specific academic calendar and institutional policies. Let’s explore this in more detail.

Columbus Day: Holiday or Day of Observance?

Columbus Day commemorates Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. However, the holiday has become increasingly controversial due to the historical impact of European colonization on indigenous populations. As a result, some institutions have opted to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples’ Day, while others treat it as a regular workday.

Understanding the evolving perspectives surrounding Columbus Day is crucial in understanding why institutions may or may not close.

Factors Determining College Closures

Several factors influence whether a college or university closes on Columbus Day:

• Academic Calendar: The most significant factor is the college’s academic calendar. Some colleges build Columbus Day into their schedule as a day off, while others prioritize maximizing instructional time.
• Institutional Policy: College administration decides whether to grant a holiday for Columbus Day. This decision can be influenced by faculty and student input, historical precedent, and the institution’s overall values.
• Collective Bargaining Agreements: If a college or university has unionized faculty or staff, collective bargaining agreements may stipulate whether Columbus Day is a paid holiday.
• Shift to Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Many institutions are moving away from recognizing Columbus Day and instead celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, often holding events or providing a day of reflection and education instead of a traditional day off. More information on this shift can be found on Wikipedia’s entry on Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

How to Determine if Your College is Open

The best way to determine if your college or university is open on Columbus Day is to consult the following resources:

• Academic Calendar: Check the official academic calendar, which is usually available on the college’s website or in the student handbook.
• College Website: Look for announcements or news articles regarding holiday closures on the college’s website.
• Email Notifications: Pay attention to email notifications from the college regarding schedule changes or holiday observances.
• Contact the Registrar’s Office: If you’re unsure, contact the registrar’s office directly for clarification.

FAQs About Colleges and Columbus Day

Is Columbus Day a federal holiday?

Yes, Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States.

Do all schools close on Columbus Day?

No, not all schools close. Many K-12 schools and colleges remain open.

Why do some colleges close on Columbus Day?

Colleges close for various reasons, including historical precedent, collective bargaining agreements, and to provide a break for students and staff.

What is Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a holiday that celebrates the history and cultures of Native American peoples.

Are banks and post offices open on Columbus Day?

Banks and post offices are typically closed on Columbus Day, as it is a federal holiday. However, some branches may have limited hours.

Summary

Whether or not a college or university is open on Columbus Day depends on a variety of factors, including its academic calendar, institutional policies, and recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. To find out if your college is open, consult the academic calendar, college website, or contact the registrar’s office.