Parent calls for recognition of Islamic holidays at P.S. 8 Shirlee Solomon in NY

In an open letter addressed to the co-presidents of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at P.S. 8 Shirlee Solomon School in Staten Island, NY, Ibrahim Kurtulus has called for greater recognition of Islamic holidays within the school community.

Kurtulus, a committed parent at the school, highlighted the importance of inclusivity and cultural diversity, urging the PTA to reflect these values in its communications and celebrations.

Kurtulus began the letter with warm wishes for a successful school year, expressing his gratitude for the dedication of PTA co-presidents Roxanne Rosciano and Caitlin Shelse.

“Your unwavering commitment as volunteer co-presidents of the PS 8 PTA is truly commendable, and your efforts are deeply appreciated by the entire school community,” he wrote, acknowledging their hard work in providing memorable experiences for children at the school.

He also praised the “Welcome Back to School” letter, describing it as a “wonderful way to begin the new academic year” and appreciated the warm sentiments extended to families.

However, he raised concerns regarding the recognition of Islamic holidays, referencing a previous letter he sent to the PTA in March 2024.

“As a father of a child who has attended PS 8 under the remarkable leadership of Mrs. Lisa Esposito, I have had the privilege of witnessing the school’s consistent efforts to promote inclusivity and celebrate cultural diversity,” Kurtulus stated.

He noted that the school has historically recognized various religious holidays, including Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter, prominently displaying them on a digital board outside the school.

Kurtulus expressed his appreciation for the inclusion of Islamic holidays, such as Ramazan and Eid al-Adha, under Mrs. Esposito’s leadership.

“This gesture has been deeply appreciated, and it reflects the diversity of our school community,” he remarked. Despite these positive actions from the school, he pointed out a concerning disparity in the PTA’s social media representation of these holidays.

“For the past 11.5 years, the PTA has consistently acknowledged various religious holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Rosh Hashanah, yet there has been a noticeable absence of recognition for Islamic holidays like Ramazan and Eid al-Adha,” he noted.

Kurtulus expressed his disappointment that the significant holidays of the American Muslim community have not received equal acknowledgment.

He reiterated his previous communication with the PTA, stating, “As a parent who has been a part of the PS 8 community since my elder daughter, Selin, first attended the school—where she was warmly welcomed by Mrs. Esposito—it has been disheartening to see that the American Muslim community’s significant holidays have not received the same acknowledgment on the PTA’s social media or other channels.”

As the new academic year begins, Kurtulus hopes the PTA will take proactive steps to honor Islamic holidays in a manner consistent with their recognition of other traditions.

“My request serves as a gentle reminder to ensure that every child and family feels valued and celebrated as part of the PS 8 community,” he urged.

He concluded his letter by commending Mrs. Esposito for her leadership and continued efforts to include the American Muslim community in school celebrations. “I sincerely hope the PTA will take similar steps this year and beyond,” he stated, advocating for fairness and inclusivity across all traditions.

Kurtulus expressed his appreciation for the PTA’s dedication to the school and offered prayers for strength and health for the leadership team. “Your hard work ensures that PS 8 remains a vibrant and supportive environment, and I am confident the PTA will continue to make every child feel seen, valued, and celebrated,” he concluded.