Policies

Class attendance

Work in class is an essential component of the course, and regular attendance is required. (See the course grading rubric in this syllabus for how class attendance contributes to your final course grade.) Excused absences do not count against your course grade. If you know of scheduled conflicts with class meeting times, please speak with Prof. Smith as soon as possible to make arrangements ahead of time for how best to make up work for an excused absence.

If you are sick or have symptoms of a possible communicable disease such as COVID, on the other, please do not come to class. You should get in touch with Prof. Smith by email as soon as possible to make arrangements for following up on an unplanned excused absence.

Masking and testing

In August, 2023, COVID infections are again on the rise. It is impossible to foresee how the spread of infections will develop this semester, and we continue to teach and learn in ways we did not anticipate. We will monitor the spread of the virus and re-evaluate our masking practices periodically throughout the semester.

Because even a “mild” case can have serious consequences for at-risk populations, as the semester begins, medical-grade or better masks are required in class and in drop-in hours until further notice.

Masking is equally uncomfortable for us all, but feeling unsafe creates a poor learning environment so please do your part. Please continue to proactively monitor, test, and isolate at the onset of COVID-19 symptoms and close contact with any individuals with known infections. We will continue to closely monitor viral surges and current College recommendations in regards to COVID-19 and any other infectious diseases that might emerge as we move through the semester.

Diversity and Inclusivity

The study of the ancient Mediterranean world belongs to all of us: if you have chosen to study Greek mythology, then you belong here. The diversity that our student body brings to this class is a resource, a strength and a shared benefit for all of us.

In developing this course, our aim has been to make the course materials and our interactions with each other respectful of diversity of all kinds: gender identity, sexuality, disability, age, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, race, nationality, religion, and culture. If you have suggestions about how to improve the effectiveness of the course for you personally, or for other students or student groups, please share them.

Accommodations for disabilities

Any student who feels the need for accommodation based on the impact of a disability should contact the Office of Disability Services to discuss support services available. The office can be reached by calling 508 793-3693 or by visiting Hogan Campus Center, room 215A.

If you are already registered with Disability Services, please let me know as soon as possible, so that I can take account of this in planning for tests or other course activities.

Academic integrity

You should be familiar with the College’s policy on Academic Integrity posted at https://catalog.holycross.edu/requirements-policies/academic-policies/#academicintegritytext