Speaking from the point of view of someone who has done all the grading for a professor for 5 years, I've become kinda like David. I don't enjoy giving them an F (at least not yet--maybe that's what a few more years will do to me). But there's this sense of satisfaction that comes with finally putting their grade to rest. They got what they deserved. They didn't earn an A or even a D. They earned an F. That's that. I did what I could by sending regular grade reminders. When I taught, I'd ask them about their assignments, encourage them to turn in their papers, remind them of the late penalties, offer tutoring.

Ultimately, it's their choice. They got the grade for which they worked.

That's why I love policies. I used to jokingly refer to myself as "The Law" and I called my boss "Grace" cuz I stuck to the policies and if there were any exceptions to be had, they could be gotten only by pleading with him. LOL It was the theology department. What can I say? Anyway, policies are great things. They give me something to fall back on. "Hey, the syllabus says this. So there!"

I can't stand those students who think they can get away with anything and everything. Those are the ones who end up waking up (hopefully) to a nice strong dose of reality. Maybe the F will be enough to get them there.

As Red Green says, "Hang in there. We're pulling for ya."

TugOfWar

PS: Not that I have a heart of stone--don't want you to get that idea. I'm a big softie. I've just learned to be tough and stand by the rules/policies. That's what they're there for. I do know when to offer grace--but only when absolutely necessary.