Academic Mediation: Appealing a Grade
Students may appeal course grades and other final evaluations on procedural grounds. That is, they may question whether the grade was awarded fairly, according to clear standards, and in a manner consistent with Earlham’s stated practices. A grade may not be appealed simply on grounds of disagreement with the instructor’s evaluation of the work. An appeal should begin with a conversation between student and instructor no more than a month after the grade has been issued. If this discussion does not lead to an agreement, the student should contact the Associate Divisional Dean from the relevant Academic Division of the College. The Associate Dean may advise the student on the merits of the case and shall, if requested by the student or instructor, mediate between the two. A meeting of all parties or separate meetings of the Associate Dean with each party may be arranged. If the Associate Dean has a conflict of interest or is otherwise unavailable, they may refer the case and mediation to another Associate Dean. If the faculty member who awarded the grade is no longer at the College, the Associate Dean will consult with the relevant department convener to review and work toward a resolution.
If this mediation does not lead to a result acceptable to the parties, either or both may request a hearing before an Academic Grievance Council (AGC). The Academic Dean for Student Success (or their designee) shall convene the AGC from the same pool of students and faculty eligible for Academic Conduct Council (ACC) hearings, comprising one faculty member and two students.
The AGC, convened by the Academic Dean for Student Success, reviews the evidence, listens and asks questions, and AGC members participate in reaching a consensus decision. If a member has a conflict of interest, they must step aside, and the Convenor will appoint a replacement from the appropriate pool. AGC hearings are closed to non-participants.
The AGC shall consider itself charged to act equitably and in the interest of both parties. When members are satisfied they have heard the evidence and responses to their questions, the AGC deliberates privately to determine if procedures were followed equitably in the case, and reports to both parties their determination. If a determination is made to recommend a grade change, the AGC should specify how the grade would be adjusted. By Earlham’s Faculty Handbook (Section D), faculty issue grades, “according to their own best judgment, consistent with the College’s and the department’s aims.”
If the AGC finds itself unable to reach a consensus, or if either party is unwilling to accept the recommendation, then they may appeal to the Provost (or designee) for a determination. Any appeal decision is final.
Requesting an Exception to an Academic Policy
Academic policies have been approved by the faculty and are applied consistently to all students. Students may petition Academic Affairs for special permission when they feel they’ve experienced exceptional circumstances that warrant an exception to Earlham’s academic policies. Students requesting special permission should fill out the petition form available on the Registrar's Office website. Academic Affairs will review all written requests within two weeks of receipt. Once a determination is made, the decision is final.