Faculty Handbook 2020-2021

SUNY College of Optometry

Faculty Handbook 2020-21

Any excused absence will be granted at the discretion of the IOR, service chief or, in the case for students at external rotations, by the external site supervisor, with approval by the director of externships, and may be denied if it coincides with a written test, quiz, or practical assessment, or if the student’s course performance is unsatisfactory. Any change in class or testing schedule to accommodate an excused absence is at the discretion of the IOR. The IOR must notify the Office of Academic Affairs when students are taking exams at times other than when originally scheduled. If a large percentage of the class seeks permission to attend an activity at the same time, the instructor may elect to reschedule or hold class at his or her discretion. Students are responsible for making up any examinations or assessments that may be missed during their absence. Notes on student leave requests : • While it is recognized that there are many legitimate reasons for requesting leave, including several excellent extracurricular professional opportunities, students must also recognize that meeting requirements for completion of the professional degree program is their highest priority. • Some considerations for granting leave will be the reason for leave, the number of leave requests the student has requested, and the student’s academic standing in the program. Accordingly, students should consider their priorities and anticipate their reasons for requesting leave well in advance, e.g. not requesting leave if a student will be participating in residency interviews. • With regard to mission trips, the college supports volunteerism and encourages community engagement. While it will make every effort to accommodate a request for mission trips, the college’s priority is the student’s successful completion of the professional degree program. • Service chiefs may require the intern to obtain coverage in the clinic to lessen the impact on patient care in the UEC. • Switches for clinic leave are limited to two per quarter/semester (one initiated by the intern and one at the request of another intern). • Students are encouraged to consider and plan all activities involving leave at the beginning of each academic year. The department chairs are available for guidance, and to answer any questions. • The number of students requesting leave for a particular activity may also be a factor. If a large number of students are requesting the same days out (for example to attend a professional meeting), then the number of leave requests that are approved may be capped. N.B. Extracurricular activities= Any activities such as but not limited to mission trips, scientific conferences, organized optometric advocacy trips, optometry meetings, residency interviews, and other professional activities. *** Students may appeal a decision relating to this policy in writing to the dean.

49