Program policies outline what the program expects from the learner and what the learner can expect from the program. They are important because they ensure systematic application of various program practices. We reviewed LBS program policies (procedures, handbooks and guidelines) from nine colleges to see how attendance, progress and conduct were addressed. We also asked practitioners about specific retention supports or strategies that might uphold their policies.

Attendance

The policies submitted for review show that attendance is the key concern. It is closely linked with learner progress and goal achievement. The policies are also realistic. They recognize that adult learners are subject to overwhelming personal and family demands that will affect their attendance. The roles and responsibilities of learners are clearly laid out in college policies although they differ somewhat in number and detail, e.g., targets for attendance.

Roles and responsibilities include:

• understanding the definition of ‘excuse’ absences – illness, doctor’s appointments, court appearances, jury duty or bereavement leave (some colleges include child’s illness, school holidays, appointments with sponsors, but others do not)
• attendance of classes according to agreed upon schedule
• understanding of attendance targets – 80% or 90 % of classes or a specified number of days a month
• informing the office or designated person in advance of any anticipated absences by the end of the day of the excused absence
• providing appropriate documents for time missed – attendance slips and medical notes
• recording attendance – learners must accurately fill out attendance cards (in other situations, staff record daily attendance and turn it into the office at the end of the week)
• getting caught up for missed classes – updating notes, collecting materials and completing assignments