Student Absences for Reasons of Faith or Conscience

Policy Number: 300-03

References: RCW 28B.137.010; RCW 49.60 – Washington's Law Against Discrimination

I. Purpose

Olympic College welcomes diversity of experiences, perspectives and beliefs, which enhances the teaching and learning environment. Consistent with these values and pursuant to RCW 28B.10.039, the College accommodates student absences for reasons of faith or conscience.

II. Policy

Olympic College students may request absences or other reasonable accommodations for reasons of faith or conscience or for organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or religious organization. To be eligible, a student must expect to be absent or endure a significant hardship during the course or program due to the observance of religious holidays.

Faculty will reasonably accommodate such requests. Students’ grades may not be adversely impacted by reasonable accommodations granted under this policy.

III. Definitions

1. “Reasonably Accommodate” means coordinating with the student on scheduling examinations or other activities necessary for completion of the program and includes rescheduling examinations or activities or offering different times for examinations or activities.

2. “Within the first two weeks” means the first fourteen (14) days starting with the first day of the course.

Student Absence Procedures and Process


  • Recommended by Cheryl Nuñez, Vice President for Equity and Inclusion August 29, 2017
  • Approved by Board of Trustees October 17, 2017
  • Update Recommended - Mary Garguile, Vice President for Instruction June 2019
  • Update submitted to President's Executive Team for Review August 6, 2019
  • Update approved by President August 6, 2019
  • Update submitted to Board of Trustees August 29, 2019
  • Update approved by Board of Trustees August 29, 2019