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Everyone loves a break from work. Whether it’s time to relax, look after yourself, or even travel, we’re always looking forward to the next bit of time off. That’s why, over 15 years ago, SAMRU’s elected representatives successfully advocated for MRU to implement a fall reading break.

As surprising as it may be to hear, the fall reading break is actually a Representation Executive Council initiative dating back to the late 2000s. Numerous REC VP Academics tirelessly advocated for an extended break mid-fall semester, so students could focus on their mental health and access the academic services they require to succeed. It started as a reading day conjoined with Remembrance Day (yes, you read that right—a single day) and eventually flourished into the four instructional days off we know and love today. You can read all about the history of fall reading break in our previous blog right here.

The mid-semester break has evolved considerably over the years, with changes to the number of days off, placement, and more to accommodate the ever-changing needs of students. While REC teams have been elected, served their terms, and moved on to other endeavors, SAMRU members have constantly made their suggestions regarding the fall break known.

This leads us to the current fall reading break. We’ve received many emails and in-person comments about the placement of the fall reading break and how students believe a change may be in order. That’s why REC wants to hear from you and how you think the break could be improved.

Keep scrolling through to see how you can make your voice heard on this topic!

So why change the fall reading break?

Over the past few years, students have been incredibly vocal about the current placement of the fall reading break, with some students in favour of the current week off in October while others believe a move to November is the way to go.

As they meet with Mount Royal University staff and faculty to discuss the upcoming academic year, REC is attempting to find a solution to address both sides of student concerns and needs. Some students have expressed that the placement of the October break prior to the first wave of midterms is helpful, while others say it comes too early in the semester and that they would prefer a November break. Additionally, many students have voiced concerns about the November break coming post-midterms and many of their grades being finalized.

Contact your elected representatives to give your feedback!

Student feedback matters above all else, and no matter what you have to say, we want to hear your thoughts. While REC and SAMRU understand that students have varying preferences regarding the timing and structure of the reading break, it is important to balance these preferences with other considerations – including academic requirements, institutional needs, and most importantly, student mental health and academic needs. REC will continue to gather feedback and work with MRU to make sure any changes truly benefit all students.

If you have specific questions or concerns about the possible alteration of fall reading break, don’t hesitate to email us at readingweek@samru.ca.

Remember, nothing is set in stone

Should a change be implemented to the fall reading break, it would not take place until at earliest the 2025-26 school year. These changes would likely be tested as a pilot project to determine whether the new schedule will stay or be reverted in upcoming academic calendars. Should a change to the fall reading break occur, you can find all the updates on SAMRU’s social media, as well as your calendar on MyMRU.

It is essential to note that both the feedback-gathering and decision-making processes are still in their infant stages. While REC has consulted faculty and staff about the break, no final decision has been made regarding the proposal to officially alter the break.

We will keep students up to date as more information and feedback are gathered to present to MRU over the coming months.

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For other representation-related inquiries, you can send your elected representatives an email at representation@samru.ca.

For general inquiries, you can contact us at info@samru.ca.