Flex Plans a Purdue Strategy

Over the past several years, Purdue University has refined its approach to flexible academic accommodations, particularly regarding attendance and assignment deadlines, to better balance accessibility with academic integrity. Initially, the “flex plan” model aimed to standardize accommodations for students with chronic conditions, but feedback from faculty, students, and disability professionals revealed the need for greater clarity, individualized assessment, and collaboration. Through this evolution, Purdue has developed enhanced guidelines that emphasize proactive communication, transparent expectations, and faculty engagement in the interactive process. The university has also clarified when attendance and deadline adjustments are appropriate versus when alternative accommodations, such as reduced course loads, are more effective. This presentation will highlight key lessons learned, including the importance of aligning accommodations with course learning objectives, training faculty to navigate flexibility, and maintaining equity among students. By sharing Purdue’s journey, we aim to provide practical strategies and considerations for institutions striving to create meaningful, consistent, and educationally sound flexibility policies.