While Good Friday, which takes place this year on March 21, is not considered an official holiday, students who are absent from schools in the William S. Hart Union High School District will not be penalized for missing school that day.

Teachers have been asked not to scheduled any major exams for that Friday and will allow absent students to make up any work that they miss that day.

"We understand that some students will be absent for religious reasons," said Hart district spokeswoman Pat Willett. However, since most Good Friday services start in the afternoon or evening, students are encouraged to attend school that morning if possible, she added.

Parents who plan to keep their child home from school that day should call the school's attendance office that morning to let school officials know, just like with any other absence.