Creating supportive classroom policies

When students were asked what made their academic lives harder, they overwhelmingly pointed to rigid policies around late work and attendance. These strict rules were especially challenging for students with marginalized identities, who often read syllabus sections on late work and absences before the semester started to decide whether a class would be manageable or if the instructor seemed approachable. Students with caregiving responsibilities, ADHD, or anxiety described feeling punished for asking for flexibility. One parent shared, "I always worry about the point in the semester where I stop being seen as a student and start being seen as a problem" when requesting accommodations to care for a sick child. Strict limits on absences and requirements like doctor's notes create additional stress and sometimes lead students to attend class while sick. Policies like automatic zeros for late work or expecting personal explanations in order to grant flexibility also discouraged students from reaching out. The belief that rigid policies prepare students for the workforce is often inaccurate, as many professional environments value the ability to communicate and ask for help when needed. Students consistently expressed appreciation for clarity, compassion, and flexibility. Faculty can also benefit from policies that help all students re-engage without requiring them to justify or prove their struggles. 

Alternate suggestions for late work policies

Instructors have different philosophies on late work, which can be class—or discipline-specific. Here, we offer six different late work policies informed by best practices, research, and student voice. Feel free to adopt or adapt them.  

1. “Life happens” automatic extension policy

Everyone gets one no-questions-asked extension—no email required. I call it the “Life Happens” extension. You can submit any one assignment up to 5 calendar days late without penalty. Just include a note on the Blackboard assignment upload that you're using your Life Happens extension. After that, if something else comes up, please reach out. We will work something out together. 

2. “Five-Day flex window” policy

Nothing is considered late if it’s turned in within 5 days of the original due date. There is no need to email or explain—just submit the work. After the 5-day window, I ask that you check in with me to discuss options. My goal is to help you stay on track while recognizing that deadlines can feel overwhelming when life is chaotic. 

3. “Let’s talk” developmental support policy

If you’re struggling to meet a deadline, please email me before the due date (or as soon as possible). I will respond with understanding, and we’ll make a plan together. My priority is your learning—not penalizing you for needing extra time. We’ll also discuss how to avoid issues with other deadlines and how I can help you build a strategy that works for your schedule and needs. 

4. “Late work with reflection” policy

You may turn in any major assignment up to 7 days late with no penalty if you include a brief reflection (1 paragraph) on what got in the way and how you plan to move forward. This reflection isn’t graded—it’s a tool to help you notice patterns and advocate for your needs. I’m happy to respond with encouragement or resources if you’d like. 

5. “No deadlines, just milestones” policy

This course uses suggested due dates, not fixed deadlines. You are encouraged to submit your work by these target dates to help you stay on track and avoid stress later in the semester. Why do I do this? Because I believe learning happens best when students aren’t paralyzed by fear or shame about falling behind. I also know that life doesn’t follow a syllabus. That said, I strongly recommend you don’t wait until the last weeks of the semester to complete all your work. I will offer feedback in the order that work is received, and late submissions may not receive the same level of response. If you’re falling behind or need help pacing yourself, I’m here to support you. Just reach out. 

6. “Lowest score dropped” policy

I understand that sometimes life gets in the way, whether it’s a rough week, an unexpected event, or just not having the capacity to complete everything. To support your well-being and reduce stress, I will drop your lowest assignment score at the end of the semester. This means that if you miss one assignment or turn in something that doesn’t go as planned, it won’t hurt your overall grade.  You don’t need to explain or email me. This drop is built in for everyone. I still encourage you to complete as much as possible, both for your learning and to stay on track, but know that this safety net is here if you need it. 

Overall approach or philosophy of assignments

Students often don’t understand why faculty assign assignments or have due dates. Consider adding something like the statement below before the assignment descriptions, and be sure to explain it in class.  

These assignments are designed to support your learning and development throughout the course. I am here to help you succeed and encourage you to engage with the material in a way that fosters growth and understanding. Please refer to the course policies on due dates and extensions, as I aim to be flexible and supportive. I understand that life can present challenges, and our goal is to provide you with the resources and accommodations needed to complete your work without added stress.  

Possible student script asking for extensions

Many student panelists shared that they often didn’t know how to ask for assignment extensions because of fear or lack of knowledge. Consider sharing the following templates with students:  

Dear Professor [Last Name], 

I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to ask if it might be possible to have a short extension on the [assignment name], which is due on [original due date]. I've been navigating some unexpected challenges this week and want to make sure I can submit work that reflects my best effort. 

Would it be okay to turn it in by [proposed new due date]? I understand deadlines are important, and I appreciate your time and consideration of this request. Please let me know if this would be possible or if there’s an alternative you'd prefer. 

Thank you again, 

[Your Full Name] 

[Course Name and Section, if applicable]

Alternate suggestions for classroom attendance policies

Like policies on late or missing assignments, instructors have different philosophies on attending class. Here, we offer five different late work policies informed by best practices, research, and student voice. Feel free to adopt or adapt them.  

1. “Presence matters, but life happens” policy

I believe that showing up to class—physically, mentally, emotionally—matters. Class time is where we build understanding together, and your presence helps the whole group learn. What happens in our time together can’t be replaced by textbooks, recordings, or notes. That said, I understand that life, health, and obligations can sometimes make attendance hard. If you miss class, you do not need to provide a doctor’s note. Just check the course site and/or contact a classmate for notes. You’re always welcome to email me if you’d like help getting reoriented; I can help get you back on track. 

2. “Catch-Up conversation” policy

Missing a class doesn’t mean you’re behind forever. If you miss a session, you can schedule a brief 10-minute “catch-up conversation” with me during office hours or via email. We’ll review key takeaways, so you’re not wondering what you missed. You don’t need to explain why you were gone—just let me know you’d like to reconnect. What matters most is showing that you’re invested in rejoining the learning community. 

3. “No punishment, just participation” policy

I don’t track attendance with a grading penalty. Instead, I evaluate participation through your engagement over time—in class, online, or through assignments. That means if you miss class, you’re not “losing points. " However, I encourage you to find another way to engage. I might ask you to respond to a class prompt via email or contribute to a shared document if you’ve missed a key discussion. These aren’t punishments; they’re bridges back into the learning flow. 

4. “Come when you can—engage how you can” policy

There is no penalty for missing class, and attendance is not graded. Students have complex lives—jobs, caregiving, health concerns, transportation issues, and more. Your presence is always welcome and expected, never required.  That said, I deeply value your presence. When you’re in class, your voice contributes to a richer learning experience for everyone. Even one comment, question, or shared story can spark important insights. I hope you’ll attend when you can, and when you can’t, I encourage you to stay connected through other means (e.g., email, discussion boards, office hours, checking in). Whether you’re here every day or not, you're part of this course. Let’s work together in the ways that work best for you. 

5. “Three no-questions-asked misses” policy

You may miss up to three classes, no explanation required. After that, I ask that we have a quick check-in to see how I can support you. This isn’t punitive; it’s about ensuring you have what you need to succeed and aren’t feeling isolated from the class. You’re still part of the learning community even when you're not physically present. I’ll help you find meaningful ways to reconnect. You’ll always find the day’s materials and assignments posted online if you miss class. You’re also encouraged to attend office hours, email me, or post in our discussion board to stay connected to the conversation.