Class Attendance
It is the responsibility of individual instructors to evaluate the importance of student class attendance in determination of course grades. Accordingly, each instructor prepares at the beginning of each semester a written statement setting forth a policy for consideration of unexcused absences, makeup examinations, and related matters, that will be in force for that semester. The statements are filed with the Provost and a statement of policy on attendance appropriate to each class is read at the first class meeting.
A faculty member may not change the time of a final examination, either for a class or for individuals. Such changes may be made only by the Provost.
Missed Class Time Due to Co-Curricular Events or Religious Observances
Classes missed due to participation in college-sponsored co-curricular events or college-recognized religious observances are considered excused absences provided appropriate procedures are followed. The student must notify the instructor at the earliest possible time before the absence and arrange to make up missed work as defined by the instructor’s syllabus. The co-curricular activity must be a performance, professional meeting, athletic contest, or College-approved field trip to be considered an excused absence. Field trip leaders should seek approval from their supervising Cabinet officer if students will be missing class The religious observance must appear on the College’s calendar of religious observances in order to be considered an excused absence. If it does not, an excused absence can be granted only if the student requests special permission from the Provost.
An excused absence allows the student to make up exams or quizzes given during the absence, or to reschedule oral presentations. It is the responsibility of the student to get notes from the class and to compensate as much as possible for the absence. It is also the student’s responsibility to work with the instructor in determining an appropriate time for make-up assignments. Students must recognize that many classroom and laboratory activities cannot be replicated and that absences may be detrimental to their performance.