Except in unusual circumstances, all classes must meet on the days and at the times assigned. Illness of the instructor is usually the only reason for a last-minute cancellation.
Faculty absences from class meetings due to illness are to be reported to the school office. Each school is responsible for informing students that classes are cancelled due to faculty illnesses.
Faculty members who know in advance that they cannot meet a class because of University responsibilities should schedule an appropriate alternate classroom activity (e.g., guest lectures, films, or proctored examinations).
Faculty members are encouraged to attend professional meetings in their areas of expertise, and directors may authorize absences for up to three class meetings per semester for professional purposes. Advance authorization is required for any classroom absences.
Rescheduling a class meeting is difficult. When arranging a make-up class, be sensitive to the work and family responsibilities of your students. Students cannot be required to attend a make-up meeting.
When an instructor cannot meet a class for any reason, students are to be notified either prior to or at the beginning of a scheduled class.
The geographical region is sometimes subject to inclement weather. With respect to weather-related incidents, faculty members are encouraged to take responsibility for their own safety when the college administration decides not to cancel scheduled activities.
Please see the inclement weather statement below for guidance on how to include Behrend procedure in teaching policies.
Inclement Weather Guidance
When extreme weather suggests we may have to cancel or delay classes and even office operations as well, news and updates will be communicated via:
- A text message to your cell phone if you have previously subscribed to receive such messages. If you have not yet signed up to receive PSU text message alerts, please go to PUSAlert to register and manage alerts.
- An email message to your Penn State email address and an announcement on the college’s website at behrend.psu.edu (if electrical service is intact).
- A message recorded at the college’s main telephone number at 814-898-6000.
In delay or cancellation decisions, we make every effort to balance the need for on-campus service with a concern for the well-being of campus community members. When the college decides not to cancel scheduled activities, you should rely on your own judgment about travel during inclement weather.
Communication Plan (instructor can choose the method but must cover the bolded part).
Sample:
I will use CANVAS as soon as reasonably possible to communicate with you any changes, including exam procedures, assignment deadlines, submission procedures, and any other necessary instructions.
June 30, 1979
Revised March 1, 2007
Revised June 20, 2017
Revised December 4, 2024