Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: James Wilgar
20345271
Pols 261

Good afternoon Dr. Jenn Stephenson. My name is Thatcher Wilgar and I am a second-year political science student. I am writing to petition my grade in Pols 261 for credit standing with Professor Wayne Cox last semester.

I thoroughly enjoyed this class and went into the exam feeling well-prepared and confident. With this being said I feel that my final grade does not accurately represent my knowledge and abilities in this class. I have been working on submitting my individual education plan and did not have access to it while writing this exam. This most definitely affected my ability to perform on this written exam. In my IEP I am entitled to technology, an alternate space, and extra time. I was unable to access these for my exam in Pols 261. These accommodations help me a lot when it comes to written work, where I am unable to have access to technology. My IEP helps me the most when it comes to essay exams like the one in 261. I struggle with organizing my ideas and I have test anxiety. The accommodations in my IEP allow me to ensure I can have access to a computer to assist with the organization of ideas, an alternate learning environment, and extra time to assist with test anxiety. During the exam, I experienced struggles with finishing on time, severe stress, and difficulty organizing my thoughts and ideas. These aspects led to me severely underperforming and not doing anywhere close to my best work. I had attempted to apply for accommodations before exams but struggled with my application. I have now submitted my Ventus request with the support of friends and family. I do recognize that it is my responsibility to ensure I am advocating for myself regarding my IEP. However, I do want to point out I had difficulties doing so earlier in the semester. I believe I am a smart hard-working student who has had one bad test bring down both my GPA and my self-belief. Having access to my IEP now moving forward will assist in benefiting my future learning. I am looking forward to taking advantage of my IEP moving forward and coming out as a better all-around student.

In light of these circumstances, I am requesting an academic petition, appealing for credit standing in Pols 261. This would provide me with an adjustment regarding my GPA that would show my true abilities as a student when provided with technology, time, and space as a learner. I am more than willing to provide any further documentation other than my IEP which should be attached. As well as discussing the matter in person if needed. I thoroughly thank you for your time and attention to this matter, and I am confident with your support I can get back on track.

Thank you for your time and understanding of the circumstances. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Enjoy your weekend!

James Thatcher Bennett Wilgar