Required Adherence to Fall Break Assignments and Deadlines

October 5, 2026

Dear Pittsburgh-Based Faculty Members and Course Instructors:

As we approach the midpoint of the semester, I am writing to remind you that the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar designates October 12-16, 2026, as Fall Break.

Please review your syllabi to ensure that no assignments, projects or exams are scheduled during or immediately following Fall Break.

Giving students a true break from academic activity during the Fall and Spring break periods allows them the chance to rest and return recharged for the remainder of the semester. We expect our faculty to support this by refraining from scheduling exams or assignment deadlines between October 12 and 19. Exams scheduled for and assignments with deadlines on Tuesday, October 20, or later are considered to fall outside the period immediately following the break.

Should students bring to my attention instances where course schedules may not align with the intended spirit of the break, I will connect with the relevant faculty member, department head and dean to ensure the concern is appropriately addressed.

Thank you for your continued commitment to creating a supportive learning environment for our students.

Sincerely,

James H. Garrett Jr.
Provost and Chief Academic Officer