Pitt will introduce two changes to its grading policies amid the COVID-19 pandemic, in what student leaders are calling a “compromise” after many pushed for a continuation of policies introduced last spring to compensate for a more difficult academic environment.

A petition urging Pitt to adopt a more lenient grading policy amid the COVID-19 pandemic has gathered nearly 2,600 signatures in a week. Pitt spokesperson Kevin Zwick didn’t directly respond to questions about the proposed S/NC option.

Right now, we’re facing a worldwide pandemic, and in these circumstances, students should have the space to take care of themselves and do their school work without agonizing about their grades — especially with the abrupt shift to online classes.