Academic Calendar changes

Are there any thoughts on what to do about the sudden change in the academic calendar? I know that my syllabus was built around the 19th of December being the last day of classes, and I suspect I'm not alone in that. Now I have students complaining because I expect them to turn in work on the 19th - if there's no class, they can leave town a whole weekend early. Also, I'm not sure that 24 hours is a realistic time frame for grading - I'm not giving a final exam, but I am collecting final papers and take home tests on the 19th - I'm not sure I have time to grade everything by the 20th...

That IS a problem. I don't think that it was thought through before the change was made and I remember that it changed between the 19th and 16th a couple of times. It doesn't make for great confidence in those who "lead" us. I was able to adjust, but I can see how many would not be able to especially since we lost so many days this semester. My students are confused about it. Some classes are requiring them to come in on the 19th, some are not.
Does anyone know what prompted the change?
Can we (should we) make it known to administration what a mess they caused?

Moderator Ralph responding.

I have read your concerns. As a fellow adjunct -- I believe i understand the problem.

I will discuss the matter with our Curriculum Committee representatives and the Chair of that Committee. Additionally, I will bring the matter to the Adjunct Conference Staff Committee. I will do this within the next seven days; and will give you the feedback at that time.

In regard to grading papers and submitting on a specific date; I will also check into this and get back to you ASAP.

Ralph