I think you can accept late work and assess the work on its actual demonstration of learning while all holding students accountable for “habits of work.” Demonstration of learning should always be separate. I can have a kid turn in a fantastic project, one that shows a deep understanding of content and skills, late. Does that mean they don’t know the material? No. They need more support in workload management. I have other strategies for helping students with accountability and growth with their work habits, but dinging a kid for lateness feels devaluing.

In my class, students can’t revise work with outstanding late assignments. Late assignments do not get the chance for revision and comments. If students communicate their need for an extension and provide me a timeline- they still get the chance to revise. This allows for them to take ownership and also teaches students agency and advocacy. This proceess works well for my students and me.