Your teacher may have a specific process within the classroom for students to follow when they have had an absence or need to improve their grades. Start with those processes first.

If there is not already a process in place, here are some methods for advocating for yourself if you have been absent or need to improve your grade.

IF you missed school...

Note:

  • You were missed, but instruction continued while you were gone.
  • You are responsible for missed work.

Advocate for yourself:

  • Ask your peers about missed work (during a transition or lunch time- not during current instruction).
  • Send an email to your teacher about missed work: (feel free to use this structure!)

Hello ________________________ (teacher's name),

I was not in class on _________ (date) and was wondering what I can do to make up my work. Are there items that you can send me or somewhere you can direct me to have access to those assignments? If not, is there a time that we can meet so that I can make up my work?

Thank you.

______________________________________ (your name)

IF you are worried about your grade...

  • Check PowerSchool for any comments made about grades. If there are some, use that feedback to determine how to move forward.
  • If there are missed assignments, see "IF you missed school..." section above.
  • Send an email to your teacher:

Hello _____________________________ (teacher's name),

I have noticed that my grade is ______. I am wondering what I can do to improve my grade.

Thank you.

______________________________________ (your name)

Credit: Adapted from the work of Amber Scott via Teacher2Teacher