New York, NY —

Muslim students and families are urging the city schools to recognize two religious holidays. They say Muslims are a growing population and that their most sacred days - at the conclusion of Ramadan and the Haaj - merit a day off, just like Christmas and Yom Kippur.

REPORTER: Bronx International High School junior Abdo Aldaliem says he's tired of having to choose between spending time with his family and going to school.

ALDALIEM: Every time I take off these holidays I've been marked absent in the school and I don't want that to happen because I want to keep a clean record.

REPORTER: The Department of Education says it has no plans to add any more holidays. It says students who take off for a religious holiday that is not recognized are given excused absences, as well as accommodations if they miss important lessons or exams.