Student-Parents at UIS – About

Many college students today are what used to be considered “nontraditional”: working adults who often have family care responsibilities. Research shows that 26 percent of undergraduate college students have children. To substantially improve the rates of postsecondary credential attainment, which is crucial to increasing access to good jobs, colleges must recognize the need for supports and tailor them to college students with children. Recent research shows that even though the number of students with children on campus has been steadily increasing, the number of campuses with child care supports has declined.

Supporting students with children is also a critical component of promoting racial and ethnic equity in education, as rates of parenthood vary substantially by race and ethnicity.

Student Parent Success Initiative focuses on supporting students with dependent children who are pursuing college. The project involves research, tool-building, technical assistance, public education, and networking with advocates, policymakers, and practitioners invested in the success of student parents in postsecondary education.

The Office of Dean of Students is available to provide resources to students who are parents.  Please contact us for further information.

FAQ

We understand that managing a class schedule and children can be challenging at times. Undoubtedly you have a number of questions. Let us try to address a few …

Can I bring my child to class?

There is no university policy regarding students bringing children to class. Since each instructor makes his/her own decisions about how to manage the classroom, asking the question at the start of the course is the best way to learn your professor’s preference.

What do I need to do if I need to miss class due to an emergency situation?

Individual instructors hold the authority when it comes to excusing absences and permitting make-up work. Each course’s syllabus should give you an idea as to how absences are handled; informing yourself at the start of the semester is important so that you will know what steps you need to take should an emergency arise. We recommend that you contact your professor as soon as you are aware of a situation that will cause you to miss class.