I agree. Formal policies prevent a lot of issues. For example, if a student comes to you privately and asks to be able to do something for extra credit, being the kind hearted teachers that we are, it is tempting to offer extra chances. But if those chances are not offered to all equally, and it becomes rumored that a teacher 'plays favorites' it can create a lot of unrest, and even accusations of prejudice or bigotry. Its about finding that 'comfort zone' of flexibility. I once had a situation involving a severe illness, that really required a lot of time extensions and retest scheduling. In that instance, I had nothing written to support a decision to provide the student a chance. I had to learn to have criteria that meet the litmus test for flexibility, and to communicate with the class that I have the ability to make an exception, but I won't use it without professional documentation.
