Trying to learn while the world is hard

<aside> ⏳ I recognize that we are all living through a world where crises are happening every day. All have far reaching and very personal implications. This class is designed to be collaborative, where learning happens because of the perspectives, experiences, and knowledge that we all bring.

Compassion and flexibility will help us all get through this course together. I’ll check-in with you all periodically, and am open to hearing how you are doing and what might help you get through the course in a way that feels satisfactory to you and supports your well-being. If you tell me you’re struggling, I won’t judge you or think any less of you. I hope you extend me and your fellow classmates the same consideration.

</aside>


Policies

Resources

The Writing Center

I encourage you to use Normandale’s Writing Center as you create and rewrite your assignments. The Writing Center is physically located in the central hallway between College Services and Fine Arts buildings, and support is available online. All good writers revise their work. Writing tutors can help you at any stage of writing.

Access and Accommodations

It is my goal to facilitate a learning experience that is as accessible as possible. If you anticipate any issues related to the format, materials, or requirements of this course, please meet with me outside of class so we can explore potential options.

In particular, if you have a disability, are pregnant, are a new parent, or have religious obligations, please know that I am eager to work with you on accommodations that can be made to facilitate your learning and participation in the class.

Disability Services

Normandale Community College is committed to providing equal access for students with disabilities through the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD). If you experience educational barriers because of a disability, please make an appointment for an intake/interview to discuss these needs and to implement appropriate accommodations for your Normandale courses. Appointments are available by calling the OSD staff at 952-358-8625, emailing [email protected], or stopping by the L2751 office. This syllabus is available in alternate formats upon request.

For students who are pregnant, parenting, or breastfeeding:

Normandale Community College does not discriminate against any student based on pregnancy or related conditions. Pregnant or parenting students who anticipate class absences or have lab or course concerns should meet with the Title IX Coordinator to develop a plan, which may require consultation with a medical provider. Please contact the Title IX Coordinator, Debbie Tillman (L2755), at 952-358-8623 or [email protected] to schedule an appointment for assistance. The Pregnant and Parenting FAQ is available online.

Accommodation of Religious Observances:

Normandale Community College strongly supports the diversity of the beliefs and religions represented by our student body. The College will provide reasonable flexibility when religious observances occasionally conflict with academic obligations such as class attendance, activities, assignments, examinations and other course requirements. Students must inform instructors of such conflicts in advance and in a timely manner. Students remain responsible for all class work and other academic obligations missed as a result of their absence.

Mental Health Services

As a student, you may experience mental health issues that interfere with functioning and daily activities. Free appointments for mental health assessment and therapy are available. At your appointment, you may wish to address concerns such as depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, substance use issues, eating disorders, body image, bipolar disorder, PTSD and ADHD. Appointments are with Normandale’s Licensed Mental Health Providers. Call 952-358-8261 to make an appointment with a licensed professional.

In addition, you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, feeling sad or stressed, difficulty concentrating, and a lack of motivation. These problems may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce your ability to participate in daily activities. Normandale Counselors are available to meet, free of charge, to discuss your concerns. Call 952/358-8261 to make an appointment with one of our Faculty Counselors.