Dear Father Tyson,

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak across the United states, Holy Cross College has opted to cancel all in person instruction for the remainder of the spring semester. 

Given the rigor of the courses taken by students, it is impossible for academic performance to be on par with previous semesters due lack of access to face to face instruction, tutoring, and student help options that are strictly found on campus. Every class should therefore be taken on a pass fail basis to ensure that student’s GPAs are not affected by the virus aftermath. The pass fail system will also ensure that student mental health is made a top priority in a time when concerns about the virus are already causing stress levels to rise. Online classes with strict grading will raise student stress levels.

During these difficult times it is extremely surprising that Holy Cross College has decided not to follow in the foot steps of the University of Notre Dame and Saint Marys College, in the implementation of pass/fail. While in the past Holy Cross College has always followed in their footsteps it is extremely disappointing for us students that we are not being given this option that most academic communities are providing for their students.

Finally, a pass fail system for the spring semester will ensure parity among the Holy Cross community as some students may be tempted to act against the rules of academic honesty when learning from home. 

Please sign this petition to support student well being, academic parity, and learning efficiency for the spring semester at Holy Cross College