Extra Curricular Activities Policy

CSB/SJU Joint Policy on Extra-Curricular Activities and Academic Responsibilities

The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University (CSB/SJU) recognize that a wide range of experiences contributes to the liberal education of a student and encourage students to seek extra-curricular activities that will enrich their college experience. At the same time, the two institutions uphold the primacy of the academic program. There is no necessary conflict between these two objectives.

When extra-curricular events are scheduled that conflict with academic programs, CSB/SJU  expects the persons in charge of the extra-curricular event to remind the students of the priority of their academic responsibilities, students to make prior arrangements with the instructors, and faculty to make reasonable accommodations whenever possible

The specific elements of this policy follow.

Student Responsibilities:

1. Students are expected to complete all their academic responsibilities – to attend required classes and laboratories, complete class and laboratory assignments and meet all scheduled examinations.
2. Students who choose not to attend classes or other required academic exercises must realize the potentially serious consequences of their choice. For example, faculty members who include class participation in their evaluation of students’ performance would be justified in lowering their evaluation of those students who miss class.
3. Students should be aware that it may not be possible for instructors to schedule make-up exams or make-up assignments. In this matter the instructor’s decision prevails.

Institutional Philosophy and Responsibilities:

1. CSB/SJU expects those faculty and/or staff members administering extra-curricular activities to develop an awareness of the critical dates of the academic calendar and avoid scheduling activities during examination periods and other special events whenever possible.  If scheduled extra-curricular activities cause more than occasional conflicts with academic programs, then steps should be initiated to review the future of this extra-curricular activity. As part of the ongoing review of this policy, unresolved conflicts should be communicated to the designated CAPS Liaison for Extra-Curricular Activities.
2. In order to accommodate extra-curricular activities, the institutions encourage faculty members to avoid scheduling single-section classes in the 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. time period. In addition, faculty should refrain from rescheduling entire classes or laboratories without compelling academic reasons.