The Indian/South Asian/Hindu population accounts for a good percentage of the overall student body of the Syosset School District.  It is difficult to get exact statistics, but working within the district, I would venture to say that at least 10-15%, if not more of the students in some schools, are of Indian decent.   

With the changing demographics, the district needs to embrace the diversity and recognize Diwali as a formal holiday as part of it's school calendar of days off.  Currently,  students have the option of taking the day off and making up missed work.  However, many parents, who stress education as top priority,  hesitate to keep their children at home to celebrate and will leave the revelry for the weekend. 

Diwali is a well known holiday and the Syosset Board should take the lead in embracing and recognizing the culturals of it's student body.  Let Syosset SD be the first on Long Island to move in this direction.  

PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION AND SEND TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS   CHANGE DOESN'T JUST HAPPEN....YOU HAVE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.....SO LET'S DO IT.....   This is more about being recognized as being a part of the fabric of America, then just getting a day off.