I am a Herzing nursing student of color who juggles working and motherhood. Along with the many others in similar shoes, I can attest to feeling personally attacked by the recent changes in the grading syllabus. These alterations were strategically imposed behind closed doors and sprung on us last minute, diminishing our ability to react and fight against them in time. All term we're not taught how to take Hesi exams were given absolutely no resources, yet the very last exam all of sudden Herzing wants us to take a Hesi exam and make it account for 45% of our grade. This is an attempt profit off students who have already committed to Herzing, they are setting us up for failure. Overall, high-stakes testing can undermine holistic education, equity, and student well-being.

It is clear to us, the students, that Herzing University is insensibly raising the academic bar. And, they have done so in a manner that disproportionately affects those of us who are parents, those of us who work to make ends meet, and especially those of us who are students of color. By replacing one high stakes test with another, they are capitalizing off of our struggles, not supporting our academic success.

The new policies, under the guise of progress, have only created a system severely lacking in transparency and accountability. They directly oppose the values that Herzing University, claims to uphold.

This is why we're demanding an immediate cessation of these unsuitable changes. We are calling for a restoration of a fair, equitable grading system that truly supports our success, not exploits it.

Join us as we press for a revision of policies that seeks to foster an inclusive, supportive learning environment that truly values diversity, and not just in words but actions. Sign this petition to advocate for a grading scheme that reflects our collective strength in diversity, the demands of personal circumstances, and the commitment to the success of all students regardless of their backgrounds.