Your Resource for Supporting Students
The Office of the Class Deans is dedicated to supporting faculty in their crucial role of guiding students through their academic and personal journeys. This page serves as a comprehensive resource for all faculty members, providing tools, tips, and information to enhance your partnership with our office.
Supporting Your Role as a Faculty Member
Collaborate with Us
Whether you are advising students or engaging with them in the classroom, your collaboration with the Class Deans is vital to their success. Here’s how you can partner with us:
Encourage Student Engagement: Help students take full advantage of the support available to them by encouraging them to meet with their Class Dean. Whether it's through including a note in your syllabus, mentioning it during class, or having one-on-one conversations with students, your encouragement can make a significant difference in getting students to connect with the resources and guidance offered by our office. If you are following up with a student, feel free to include the student’s Class Dean in the conversation. This helps ensure that the student receives comprehensive support.
Consult with Us: If you have concerns about a student, want to discuss how best to support their academic success, or need guidance on campus resources, Class Deans are here to assist you.
Engage in Academic Support:
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Know the Academic Policies and Deadlines: Familiarize yourself with the academic policies, important deadlines, and procedures at Wellesley. This knowledge ensures you can guide students effectively and provide accurate information.
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Understand the Available Support Services: Be aware of the various academic support services available to students, such as accommodations offered through Accessibility and Disability Resources, tutoring and academic success coaching offered through the Pforzheimer Learning and Teaching Center (PLTC), and other resources. The Registrar’s Office should be consulted regarding student records. By knowing what support exists, you can better refer students to the help they need.
Syllabus Blurb
We encourage faculty to include the following information in their course syllabi:
Office of the Class Deans: Your Class Dean is a key resource for you as you navigate your academic journey at Wellesley. Whether you’re seeking guidance on course selection, struggling with academic challenges, or simply not sure where to start, your Class Dean is here to help. The Office of the Class Deans is located in the Schneider Center on the second floor and is open Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm. You can find your Class Dean’s contact information in Workday and can make an appointment with them using their appointment calendar found on the Class Deans’ website.
Tips for Supporting Students
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Be Proactive: Reach out to students who may be struggling or who have been absent from class. Early intervention can make a significant difference. Submitting a Midterm Progress Report is a great way to communicate any concerns with a student, their advisor, and their Class Dean.
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Know the Resources: Familiarize yourself with the various academic and support services available on campus so you can make informed referrals.
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Encourage Independence: Support students in developing their problem-solving skills and taking ownership of their academic journey.
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Be Inclusive: Recognize and respect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of your students. Tailor your approach to meet their unique needs. Examples of this might be:
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If a student discloses a learning disability, direct them to the Office Accessibility and Disability Resources (ADR) to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations and support. You can also work with the student to ensure their accommodations are being met within the format of your class.
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If a student is struggling with a temporary illness (e.g., COVID, the flu), consider offering flexibility with deadlines or attendance, and guide them to academic support resources and Health Services.
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Responding to Immediate Concerns
Helpful Links for Faculty