Emergency Absence
If a student needs to leave the college for a short period of time, but intends to return and complete the semester's work, the student should apply for an emergency absence. An emergency absence cannot extend beyond two weeks or the end of the semester.
Emergency absences may be granted for personal and family emergencies as well as for health reasons. Examples of circumstances in which such an absence may be appropriate include: hospitalization, death in the family, life-threatening illness or injury, or recovery from an accident or surgery. A student requesting an emergency absence may be asked to provide documentation of the illness or emergency situation.
Students are expected to speak directly with their instructors about the implications of such an absence with regard to their courses. The instructor of each course will determine whether it is possible for the student to resume and complete the course after returning from an emergency absence. An emergency absence does not exempt students from course requirements, including any requirements regarding class attendance and participation.
How to Request an Emergency Absence
Students who wish to request an emergency absence should contact the Student Life Office to schedule a meeting with a dean. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the student’s situation, relevant support resources, and if an emergency absence is approved, the intended use of time while away. The student and dean will work together to determine an appropriate length of absence and a plan for the student’s return at the conclusion of their emergency absence.
A student may also receive an endorsement for an emergency absence from the program director for Sexual Health, Advocacy & Relationship Education (SHARE) or from the Health & Counseling Center. In these situations the student will not need to further disclose the nature of their emergency, but must still discuss the logistics of their absence and complete the necessary paperwork with a dean in Student Life.
In extenuating circumstances when a student is unable to communicate directly with the college due to an extreme emergency, the Student Life Office may notify the student’s instructors and on-campus employers of the student’s absence until the student is able to resume communication.
If a student is not approved for an emergency absence, the dean will review with the student all other options for resolution and support resources relevant to their situation or circumstances. Students who need to miss class due to non-emergency circumstances are encouraged to speak directly with their instructors.
Communication to Faculty
If a student’s request for an emergency absence is approved, the Student Life Office will notify the student’s instructors, faculty adviser and, if relevant, on-campus employer that the student is approved for an emergency absence for a specified length of time.
Students should be aware that the role of the Student Life Office in communicating with faculty is informational only. It is each professor's discretion to excuse absences or class work, even with an absence notification from the Student Life Office. It is the responsibility of the student to be in touch with faculty to discuss and agree upon a reasonable plan to address any academic issues that may arise from the student's absence.
Please see Emergency Absence FAQs for more information.
Returning from an Emergency Absence
The student is expected to return to class from their emergency absence by the date agreed upon with the dean in Student Life. The Student Life Office will contact the student one business day before their stated return to confirm their return.
If a student needs more than two weeks away from classes, the student may meet with a dean or their faculty adviser to discuss academic options or interventions. A student may also request a leave or medical leave of absence.
Questions?
Read the Emergency Absence FAQs. If you have questions please contact the Student Life Office at student-life@reed.edu or 503-517-7396.