June 22, 2020
Revised policy on university excused absences for students
Dear Colleagues,
Faculty Senate and I recently approved a policy revision to University Handbook section F62 on university excused absences. This policy revision clarifies the broad range of activities that would be considered university excused absences for students. The policy identifies the following events and activities as university excused absences:
- Absences in which students are representing the university in some capacity (e.g., presenting at an academic conference, athletics, or musical performances).
- Military service.
- Court appearances.
- Disability accommodation.
- Pregnancy, childbirth or adoption.
- Religious observances.
- Weather.
- Special programming.
Overall, the K-State attendance policy establishes that: (1) students are expected to attend class meetings as scheduled; (2) instructors announce their attendance policy at the beginning of the course; (3) excuses for absence from class are handled between the student and instructor, except when other university offices are involved in the approval process; and (4) students are responsible for all missed learning and coursework stemming from any absence.
When a student provides reasonable advance written documentation of the need for a university excused absence, in accordance with the provisions of the policy, instructors shall provide the opportunity to either make up or excuse, at the instructor's discretion, any missed assignments, activities, and/or attendance-specific points that contribute to the course grade.
For other absences, instructors may use their discretion to excuse the absence and allow students to make up any graded work that was missed. While not required, students and faculty may consult with the Office of Student Life, department heads, or college offices for assistance with absences beyond the student's control.
For complete information about the revised policy, please see the University Handbook, Section F62. This policy goes into effect immediately.
Sincerely,
Chuck Taber
Provost and executive vice president