Resources for Parents of FIS Students
Parents can be important partners in their student’s success. However, it is important for parents to support the Freshman Intensive Studies (FIS) program’s philosophy of encouraging students to be self-advocating, active learners. At times, this means fighting the urge to resolve the problem for the student. Rather, parents should view themselves as “coaches,” as they guide their students in making good choices.
Parents of FIS students should be advised that the FIS staff is unable to give out specific information regarding their student over the phone. However, we will meet with parents in person with the student present. All meetings will be coordinated through the student, as the FIS staff is always mindful of the student’s responsibility in the process.
The following contains information and resources to help parents understand the FIS experience, their role in the educational process, and how to ease their own transition into the FDU experience.
FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)–for information regarding students’ and parents’ rights to access of information.
Important FIS Timetables
Parents should be aware of the following processes that occur during the FIS year:
- Fall Midterm Grade Reporting–In mid-October, students will receive a printed grade report from the Director of FIS. The grade report is also available via Self-Service. If students fall below a 1.80 average, they will be placed on “FIS Academic Performance Warning” and need to cease participation in athletics for the remainder of the semester.
- Mid-Year Academic Review–In January, Becton College of Liberal Arts and Education reviews the academic records of all students. Freshmen whose term GPA is below a 1.80 will be placed on College Academic Performance Warning, as well as FIS Academic Performance Warning. Students placed on Warning will receive a letter informing them of any university sanctions that have been imposed. Keep in mind that FIS students are not dismissed from the university in mid-year.
- Spring Mid-Semester Grade Reporting–In mid-March, students will again receive a printed grade report, as well as having access to the report via Self-Service. Students below a 1.80 GPA will be placed on Academic Performance Warning with the same stipulations in place from the Fall.
- End of Year Academic Review–In May, the College again reviews all academic records. Students earning below the required university GPA for the semester will be informed of university sanctions for the following semester.