Class Attendance
Students are expected to attend classes and are expected to arrive on time. Instructors will specify their policy in the course syllabus. Daily records of student attendance are kept at the discretion of the individual instructor. However, enrollment in a course carries with it an implied, mutual agreement between instructor and student: both agree to come to class prepared and to be active participants in the teaching-learning process. Thus, penalties for student absences or tardiness will also be at the discretion of the individual instructor. Moreover, if excessive absence or tardiness does occur, responsibility for an explanation rests with the individual student. The instructor is not obligated to grant requests for make-up or supplementary work regardless of the reason for the absence or tardiness. Therefore, students should know the individual instructor's policy on attendance at the beginning of the course.
Lesley University Student Health Services does not provide students with routine "sick notes" for brief absences from class due to illness or fatigue.
In the event of an anticipated absence of one week or longer, or in the unusual case of a communicable disease which necessitates class absence for public health issues, Student Health Services will notify the Director of Academic Advising. The Director will notify the student's professors and faculty advisor of the absence. If written documentation is required to complete this process, the Student Health Service may provide that to the student upon return to classes.
Required Examinations
Midterm and final examinations or other evaluation activities are required in most non-studio courses. Absences from examinations are excused only in cases of severe illness, death in the immediate family, or occasions of equal exigency and make-up exams or work are granted at the discretion of the individual faculty member.
Religious Observance
Students who are unable, because of their religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from any such examination, study, or work requirement. As a result of absence due to religious observance, students shall have the opportunity to make up the examination, study, or work requirement they may have missed, provided that such make-up examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon Lesley University. The University will not charge any fee for providing students the opportunity to make up examinations or work. No adverse or prejudicial effects shall result to students who avail themselves of the provisions of this policy.
For additional information, contact the Office of Student Life and Academic Development at 617.349.8530.
Cancellation of Classes
Classes generally will not be cancelled because of inclement weather. If cancellation does occur, announcements will be made on the Lesley website, local radio and TV stations. Students may also call the University switchboard for cancellation news.
In the event of class cancellation by a faculty member, a notice will be posted on the classroom door or email will be sent out to students as soon as notification is received. If an instructor is delayed for class and a Class Cancellation Sign is not posted on the classroom door, students are requested to wait 1/2 hour before leaving the classroom.
Classes held at off campus locations will follow closure policies of the specific facility in which classes are scheduled. Details will be available from off campus location coordinators.