3/31/20 - Update on Grading Approach for This Semester

Dear Southwestern Students

The Southwestern faculty met for three hours on both Friday, March 20 and Friday, March 27 to discuss how grading will be handled this semester in light of the COVID-19 crisis.  Although we have made substantial progress, we need one more meeting to complete our deliberations.  That meeting will occur this week.  Thus, we will let you know of the faculty’s decision regarding grading by the end of this week (i.e., by no later than 5 pm on Friday, April 3).

As you all know, this is an extremely important decision for the school, one that needs to be thoroughly examined from a number of different angles.  Thus, in addition to making sure we had given students sufficient time and notice to provide their own input, the faculty is proceeding methodically and cautiously in its own deliberations to ensure the decision reached is the soundest one possible.  Of course, carefully considering the interests and views of all Southwestern students is our primary focus. 

We know that not having a decision yet regarding grading must be somewhat stressful for you.  Please know that the Southwestern faculty and administration are doing their very best to reach the best decision for the school as quickly as possible.

We hope that you are well and staying healthy and safe.

All the best,

Dean Susan and Vice Dean Dov