100 signatures reached
To: Stony Brook University Administrators/Undergraduate Student Government
Petition to make the Course Retake Policy Retroactive - Stony Brook University

The new course retake policy will go into effect this summer leaving many not benefiting. Making the new course retake policy retroactive means the previous grade will not be calculated in the GPA, boosting many GPAs significantly, even for previous semesters. Implementing a retroactive course retake policy will significantly benefit numerous students by providing them with a valuable opportunity to improve their GPAs. Many students have struggled academically in certain courses due to circumstances beyond their control, such as personal hardships, health issues, or unforeseen challenges during the semester. Allowing the policy to apply retroactively ensures that these students are not permanently penalized for past struggles and can demonstrate their true academic potential by retaking courses they previously underperformed in. This approach not only fosters a more supportive and equitable academic environment but also empowers students to rebuild their confidence and achieve their educational goals. By giving students a second chance to succeed, the retroactive policy aligns with the broader mission of promoting growth, resilience, and academic excellence.
Why is this important?
Students should sign this petition because it represents a crucial opportunity to advocate for a fair and compassionate academic system that prioritizes student success and well-being. Many of us have faced challenges during our academic journeys—whether it be personal struggles, mental health issues, family responsibilities, or even the unprecedented disruptions caused by global events like the pandemic—that have negatively impacted our performance in certain courses. These circumstances are often beyond our control, yet they can leave a lasting mark on our GPAs, affecting scholarships, graduate school admissions, and job prospects. By signing this petition, you are supporting a retroactive course retake policy that would allow students to revisit and improve their grades in courses where they previously underperformed. This policy is not about erasing accountability but about providing a second chance to demonstrate our true potential and dedication to learning. It’s about creating a more equitable academic environment where students are not permanently defined by their past struggles but are instead given the tools to grow and succeed. Your signature can help bring about meaningful change, ensuring that future and current students have the opportunity to recover from setbacks and achieve their academic goals. Together, we can show our institution that we value resilience, growth, and fairness in education—so please, take a moment to sign and share this petition to make a difference for yourself and your peers.
PLEASE SIGN AND SHARE WITH PEERS!!!
PLEASE SIGN AND SHARE WITH PEERS!!!