Dear faculty colleagues,
As you’re likely aware, Hurricane Laura will soon make landfall on the Texas and Louisiana border. For many of our students who come from these areas, this event only exacerbates the considerable challenges driven by Covid-19.
Many of these students may already be in Austin but are worrying about their loved ones and friends back home. There are some students, however, who will now face increased adversity. Some students may be learning online and may be unable to leave their homes and among their concerns are falling behind in their classes. Some students with veteran or military status could be activated to directly support the recovery and rescue efforts.
We are asking that these students — who are able — submit a Class Absence Notification Request. Faculty will be notified of these submissions as they come in.
Some impacted students may not have cellular or internet access right now, and they will be unable to provide advance notice to professors or the university through the Class Absence Notification. I ask that you demonstrate compassion by being flexible and accommodating your students affected by Laura.
Academic Accommodations to Consider
Instructors have wide discretion to accommodate their students in extenuating circumstances, such as natural disasters. Accommodations you can consider to help your students might include:
- Remember to record your classes so students who cannot attend are able to catch up.
- Be flexible in your attendance policy through next week.
- Be flexible in your reading and class assignment deadlines through next week.
As the extent of the damage unfolds in the coming weeks and months, some students may need to return home to help their families clear flooded homes or move into shelters. Some students who planned to learn from home may need to relocate to temporary housing. The damage will be extensive and the recovery will take time, so please consider making accommodations as appropriate throughout the semester. I realize you have really already been doing this in many regards since March in response to Covid-19. Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do.
If you have questions, please contact your academic dean for more information and guidance.
The Behavior Concerns and COVID-19 Advice Line (BCCAL) and Counseling and Mental Health Center’s Counselors in Academic Residence (CARE) program are also helpful resources.
I want you to feel empowered to help your students in need. Thank you in advance for your continued support of our students on all fronts.
Sincerely,
Daniel Jaffe