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Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities

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  1. POLICY

    The safety of students, faculty, staff, and the college community largely depends on the behavior and engagement of its students. Students enrolled at the college are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with Salt Lake Community College’s Values.

    All students are subject to college expectations while enrolled at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC). The college reserves the right to take disciplinary action against any student whose conduct, in the opinion of college representatives, is not in the best interests of the student, other students, or the college. Students engaged in the accountability process should expect to find their sanctions enforced at all SLCC campuses. In the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities (“Code”), the term student is used to refer to:

    1. All people taking SLCC courses, both full-time and part-time;
    2. All people not officially enrolled for a particular term but have a continuing relationship with SLCC or intend to enroll in the next term. This provision includes those persons enrolled in the spring and fall semesters who engage in misconduct during the summer; and/or
    3. All people attending SLCC courses or other courses on an SLCC campus.

    SLCC complies with all Federal laws, rules, regulations, and statutes, the State of Utah and appropriate local jurisdictions, the Utah Board of Higher Education, the SLCC board of trustees, and the president’s executive cabinet.

  2. DEFINITIONS
    1. Academic Integrity Violation: any activity that undermines the institution's academic integrity.
    2. Affirmative Consent: known, expressed, and freely given consent. Affirmative Consent cannot be obtained by force, which includes the use of physical violence, threats, intimidation, and/or coercion. (See Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy for additional information.)
    3. Aiding Cheating or Other Acts of Academic Dishonesty: providing material or information to another student with the knowledge that this material or information will be used to deceive faculty.
    4. Amnesty: allows students to report violations of the Code or seek help in emergencies without fear of facing disciplinary action for their own minor infractions. Amnesty is designed to encourage students to prioritize health and safety over concerns about punishment. This approach aims to foster a supportive environment where students feel safe to report serious issues or seek assistance without hesitation
    5. Cheating: unauthorized use of artificial intelligence, notes, study aids, or acquiring information from another student’s papers on an examination; obtaining a copy of an examination or questions from an exam before taking the exam; altering graded work with the intent to deceive another person to do one’s work and then submitting as one’s own name; allowing another to take an examination in one’s name; submitting identical or similar papers for credit in more than one course without obtaining prior permission from the instructors of all the courses involved.
    6. Data Misrepresentation: fabricating data; deliberately presenting in an assignment data that was not gathered following assigned guidelines or deliberately fabricated; or providing an inaccurate account of the method by which the data was gathered and generated.
    7. Copyright Infringement: conduct or activities that violate federal copyright laws, including, but not limited to, the piracy of written or electronic media, are not permitted.
    8. Cyberbullying: any conduct that subjects another person, whether physically, mentally, emotionally, or psychologically, to anything that may endanger, abuse, degrade, humiliate, or intimidate the person using electronic or digital media.
    9. Dishonesty: conduct including, but not limited to, false accusations of misconduct; forgery, alteration, or misuse of any college document, record, or identification; and giving to a college official information known to be false.
    10. Disorderly Conduct: obstructive or disruptive behavior or actions that interfere with teaching, research, administration, or other college or college-authorized activities.
    11. Endangerment: actions that put oneself or others in the college community or the academic process in danger or peril.
    12. Falsification of academic records or documents: altering any documents affecting academic records, forging signatures, or falsifying information on an official academic document such as a grade report, ID card, library card, or any other official college letter or communication.
    13. Falsification of Identity: communicating or acting under the guise, name, identification, email address, signature, or other indications of another person or group without proper authorization or authority.
    14. Falsification of Information: inaccurate or misleading information that is presented as if it is true.
    15. Harassment: any repeated acts of unwanted verbal, written, electronic, or nonverbal conduct, whether directly, indirectly, or through a third party, that are objectively offensive or severely pervasive. Such conduct limits, interferes, or denies a student’s educational benefits or opportunities.
    16. Hazing: any conduct that subjects another person, whether physically, mentally, emotionally, or psychologically, to anything that may endanger, abuse, degrade, humiliate, or intimidate the person as a condition of association with a group or organization, regardless of the person’s consent or lack of consent.
    17. Intimate Partner Violence: any act or threat of violence that occurs between individuals who are involved or have been involved in a sexual, dating, spousal, domestic, or other intimate relationship.
    18. Lewd or Indecent Conduct: sexually inappropriate or obscene behavior that is considered offensive by community standards.
    19. Obstruction: Intentionally hindering, blocking, or preventing access to college facilities, property, or programs.
    20. Physical Abuse: physical force or violence to restrict the freedom, action, or movement of another person or to endanger the health or safety of another person. Physical behavior that involves an expressed or implied threat to interfere with an individual’s personal safety.
    21. Plagiarism: presenting the ideas, representations, or words of another person or artificial intelligence within one's own work without customary and proper acknowledgment of authorship is considered plagiarism.
    22. Retaliation: any action or treatment intended to restrain, or does restrain, a person from making a complaint or participating in an investigation.
    23. Sexual Assault: any intentional sexual touching or penetration, however slight, with any object or body part, performed by a person upon another person, and that is without affirmative consent or by force or both.
    24. Sexual Exploitation: purposely or knowingly:
      1. causing the incapacitation of another person through alcohol, drugs, or any other means for the purpose of compromising that person’s ability to give affirmative consent to sexual activity;
      2. allowing third parties to observe private sexual activity from a hidden location or through electronic means (e.g., live streaming);
      3. watching private sexual activity without the consent of the participants or viewing another person’s intimate parts in a place where that person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy;
      4. recording or photographing private sexual activity or a person’s intimate parts without consent;
      5. disseminating or posting images of private sexual activity or a person’s intimate parts without consent;
      6. prostituting another person; or
      7. exposing another person to a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or virus without the other’s knowledge.
    25. Sexual Harassment: unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other intimidating verbal or written communications or physical conduct of a sexual nature that limit, interfere, or deny a student’s educational benefits or opportunities.
    26. Solicitation of Funds: individuals or organizations seeking to use campus facilities or scheduling activities to solicit funds must first obtain written approval from the appropriate college official.
    27. Stalking: engaging in two or more acts in which a person directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about another person, or interferes with another person’s property that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of others; or suffer substantial emotional distress.
    28. Threatening or Intimidating Behavior: actions or words intended to instill fear or apprehension in another person.
    29. Verbal Abuse: a form of harsh, insulting, or offensive communication used to intimidate or interfere with a person’s freedom, well-being, or personal safety.
    30. Violence: behavior intended to inflict harm, control, or intimidation on another person’s health, safety, and well-being
  3. Student Rights

    SLCC recognizes its responsibility to support and uphold all students’ fundamental freedoms and rights within educational settings, including experiences inside and outside the classroom. All students have the following rights:

    1. Rights in the Pursuit of Education
      Classrooms, laboratories, libraries, studios, and other spaces are the essential learning environments of the college, and the college’s faculty and staff should promote and encourage the freedom to learn in these environments. The following statements have been developed to support students’ rights in all learning environments within the college. Students shall have the right to:
      1. have reasonable access to faculty and staff, academic technology, classrooms, libraries, presentations, and other resources necessary for the learning process;
      2. have reasonable access to academic advising and clear expectations for degree and completion requirements;
      3. have decisions related to the pursuit of their education made clearly;
      4. learn in an environment that supports the freedom of self-expression and association;
      5. participate in an exchange of ideas, within their constitutional rights and the policy section of the Code, free from conduct that hinders either a faculty member’s ability to teach or the student’s ability to learn; and
      6. study, work, and interact in an environment of professionalism, mutual trust, and respect, free from romantic or sexual advances by college employees. All romantic or sexual relationships between employees and students are discouraged (see the Employee Conduct Policy). Such professional responsibility encompasses both instructional and non-instructional contexts.
    2. Right to Freedom from Discrimination: Diversity Statement
      1. SLCC works to prevent any form of exclusion from participation in, denial of benefits of, or subject any individual to discrimination, harassment, or prejudicial treatment based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, pregnancy or related condition, religion, protected veteran status, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
      2. For more information or if you believe you have been subject to discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity, please contact SLCC’s Title IX office:

        Cindy Cole
        4600 S Redwood Rd.
        Academic and Administration Building, Suite 201
        Salt Lake City, UT 84123
        801.957.4561
        titleIX@slcc.edu
      3. For more information on requesting accommodations for a disability, contact:
        Accessibility & Disability Services (ADS)
        (801) 957-4659
      4. If you believe you have been subject to discrimination, please go to the ADS grievances and complaints webpage.
        You may also file a complaint with :

        U.S. Department of Education–Denver Office
        Office of Civil Rights (OCR)
        Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building
        1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310
        Denver, CO 80204-3582

        Telephone: 303-844-5695
        Fax: 303-844-4303; TDD 800-877-8339
        Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov
        Website: www.ocrcas.ed.gov
    3. Right to Accommodation for Individuals with Disabilities
      1. Accessibility & Disability Services staff seek to ensure that all students who meet eligibility requirements, as defined by college policy, receive reasonable accommodations.
      2. Reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities will be made to ensure access to academic programs, services, and employment under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Americans with Disabilities Amendment Act, and based upon the college policies and procedures, such as the Student ADA Access and Reasonable Accommodations Policy.
    4. Right to Pregnancy Accommodations
      The college will not discriminate against or exclude any student from participating in any part of an educational program based on the student’s pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, or related recovery.
      1. To request pregnancy accommodations, contact Accessibility & Disability Services at 801-957-4659 or submit a Pregnancy Accommodation Request Form.
      2. If a student is unsatisfied with an accommodation request, they may submit a formal complaint with:

        Cindy Cole
        Title IX Coordinator
        4600 S Redwood Rd.
        Academic and Administration Building, Suite 201
        Salt Lake City, UT 84123
        801.957.4561
        titleIX@slcc.edu
      3. Students may request an accommodation, file a complaint, and appeal an accommodation decision for a pregnancy-related condition using the procedures in the Student Pregnancy Accommodation Department Rule.
    5. Right to Religious Accommodations
      Faculty and staff will be mindful of students’ religious beliefs and practices. SLCC will make religious accommodations upon appropriate prior notice (see Religious Accommodation Request Form).
    6. Right to Freedom from Harassment
      1. SLCC is committed to maintaining a place of work and study free from abuse, intimidation, harassment, and retaliation, where everyone is treated with respect, dignity, and courtesy. Conduct that disrupts, interferes with the safety of others, adversely affects, or otherwise interferes with the lawful functions of the college or the rights of an individual to pursue an education at the college, may be subject to college sanctions.
      2. Parties will not be subject to sanctions under this Code if they engaged in unlawful or prohibited use of alcohol or drugs when the alleged violation occurred.
      3. Amnesty applies only to the personal use of alcohol or drugs and does not extend to other potential violations of the Code or other college policies. For example, if the respondent provided alcohol or drugs to the complainant as a means of facilitating the alleged violation, the respondent may face additional disciplinary action.
    7. Right to Access Records
      1. SLCC maintains an educational record for each student who is or has been enrolled at the college.
      2. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, as amended, the following student rights are covered by the act and given to all students at the college:
        1. The right to inspect and review information in the student’s educational records.
        2. The right to challenge the contents of the student’s educational records.
        3. The right to a hearing if the outcome of the challenge is unsatisfactory.
        4. The right to submit an explanatory statement for inclusion in the educational record if the hearing outcome is unsatisfactory.
        5. The right to prevent disclosure, with certain exceptions, of personally identifiable information.
        6. The right to secure a copy of the institutional policy.
        7. The right to file complaints with the Department of Education concerning alleged failures by SLCC to comply with the act’s provisions. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

          Family Policy Compliance Office
          U.S. Department of Education
          400 Maryland Avenue, SW
          Washington, DC 20202-8520
      3. For questions related to student records, contact the Office of the Registrar and Student Records.
    8. Student Right to Know
      1. The 1990 Federal Student Right to Know Act requires colleges and universities to report the persistence and graduation rates of full-time technical certificate and degree-seeking students to prospective and current students.
      2. The graduation rate is based upon program completion within 150 percent of the time usually required for a full-time student. For technical certificate students, this is the number of full-time students graduating in three semesters.
      3. For associate degree students, this is the number of students graduating in six semesters. Information regarding SLCC’s compliance with the 1990 Federal Student Right to Know Act may be found on the college’s website.
    9. Right to Freedom of Association, Expression, Advocacy, and Publication
      1. Students are free to form, join, and participate in groups or organizations that promote student interests, including but not limited to groups or organizations organized for intellectual, religious, social, economic, political, recreational, or cultural purposes.
      2. Following state and federal constitutions and college policies, the college recognizes the rights of all students to engage in discussion, to express thoughts and opinions, and to assemble, speak, write, publish, or invite speakers on any subject without college interference or fear of college disciplinary action.
      3. Students may engage in peaceful and orderly protests and demonstrations in traditional public forums, specifically outdoor areas of the college campus, that do not substantially disrupt the functions of the college. Such protests and demonstrations are subject to appropriate regulation concerning time, place, and manner so long as the restrictions:
        1. are narrowly tailored to serve a significant institutional interest;
        2. are based on published, content-neutral, and viewpoint-neutral criteria;
        3. leave alternative channels for communication;
        4. do not restrict spontaneous and contemporaneous assembling in outdoor areas of the college campus; or
        5. do not restrict a person from freely engaging in lawful, noncommercial expressive activity in outdoor areas of the college campus.
      4. Demonstrations are a legitimate mode of expression, whether politically motivated or directed against the college administration, and will not be prohibited.
      5. Demonstrators, however, do not have the right to deprive others of the opportunity to speak or be heard, take hostages, physically obstruct the movement of others, permanently occupy land, erect structures or shelters, camp in college facilities and on all college properties, or otherwise disrupt educational or institutional processes in a way that interferes with the safety or freedom of others.
      6. Students may be subject to disciplinary action when their actions cause, or are likely to cause, disruption or interfere with the college’s regular and essential operations as outlined in the Code.
      7. Students who have questions about protests, demonstrations, or any other form of expression should contact the dean of students office for more information.
      8. Students who publish in student publications with college support and approval have the right to be free of college censorship. Student editors and managers may be suspended or removed from their positions only for proper cause and by appropriate proceedings conducted by the organization responsible for appointing such editors and managers.
      9. SLCC requires a student group or organization to register and be approved by the college. Student groups and organizations must comply with all federal, state, and local laws and college policies.
      10. A student, student group, or organization may be authorized to use college facilities for extracurricular activities, subject to the procedures established by the college.
      11. SLCC students shall be free, individually and collectively, to express their views on institutional policy and procedures, which shall include examining and discussing issues of interest to them and expressing opinions publicly and privately. They shall be free to invite and to hear persons of their choosing and to support causes by orderly means that do not substantially disrupt the regular and essential operations of the college
    10. Rights of Students as College Employees
      1. College policies and procedures govern a student’s rights and responsibilities as an employee of the college.
      2. A student employee who violates the Code will be held accountable through the dean of students office, which will consult with People and Workplace Culture.
      3. The student employee’s supervisor will navigate other matters.
  4. Student Responsibilities

    Just as students have fundamental freedoms and rights within an educational setting, students also have responsibilities. SLCC expects students to be responsible for the following:

    1. Uphold and follow this Code, relevant expectations of respective schools, professional programs, or professional societies, and all rules applicable to conduct in-class environments, including distance education courses, programs, college-sponsored activities, off-campus clinicals, field, internships, athletics, in-service experiences, activities utilizing college technology, or other college approved activities. It is the responsibility of the student to inquire with their academic department regarding any additional responsibilities that may apply to them.
    2. Obey all applicable college policies and procedures and all local, state, and federal laws.
    3. Respect the learning environment, which includes, but is not limited to, attending class, completing class assignments, and coming to class prepared.
    4. Use college property and facilities to support their education while being mindful of the rights of others to use college property and facilities.
    5. Maintain and regularly monitor their college accounts, including e-mail and student finance (Bursar) accounts, and ensure financial obligations are met.
    6. Uphold and maintain academic and professional honesty and integrity.
    7. Be responsible for their behavior and respect the rights and dignity of others both within and outside the college community.
    1. Rights in the Pursuit of Education
      Classrooms, laboratories, libraries, studios, and other spaces are the essential learning environments of the college, and the college’s faculty and staff should promote and encourage the freedom to learn in these environments. The following statements have been developed to support students’ rights in all learning environments within the college. Students shall have the right to:
      1. have reasonable access to faculty and staff, academic technology, classrooms, libraries, presentations, and other resources necessary for the learning process;
      2. have reasonable access to academic advising and clear expectations for degree and completion requirements;
      3. have decisions related to the pursuit of their education made clearly;
      4. learn in an environment that supports the freedom of self-expression and association;
      5. participate in an exchange of ideas, within their constitutional rights and the policy section of the Code, free from conduct that hinders either a faculty member’s ability to teach or the student’s ability to learn; and
      6. study, work, and interact in an environment of professionalism, mutual trust, and respect, free from romantic or sexual advances by college employees. All romantic or sexual relationships between employees and students are discouraged (see the Employee Conduct Policy). Such professional responsibility encompasses both instructional and non-instructional contexts.
    2. Academic Integrity & Professional Behavior
      1. SLCC recognizes academic integrity as a fundamental principle of higher learning. The credibility of the college’s educational programs rests upon the foundation of student learning and integrity. Academic integrity is expected of all students. Faculty and the college may sanction a student for actions inconsistent with expectations of academic integrity.
      2. The college views any act of academic dishonesty as a serious offense requiring sanctions, including failure for the exam or specific course work, course failure, removal from an academic program, suspension, or expulsion from the college. An act of academic dishonesty may lead to a formal process outside the college.
      3. Students unsure of what constitutes academic dishonesty should consult with their instructors. Claims of ignorance will not necessarily excuse the offense. Violations of academic integrity or professional behavior include, but are not limited to, the following acts:
        1. Cheating or Aiding Cheating;
        2. Data Misrepresentation; or
        3. Plagiarism.
    3. Unprofessional or Inappropriate Behavior within a Clinical, Field, or Internship Experience.
      Conduct that is lewd, indecent, obscene, inappropriate, or non-compliant with professional or accreditation standards; or a violation of clinical or other affiliated site expectations or guidelines; or a violation of federal or state laws.
    4. Personal Misconduct Involving Computers/Technology
      1. SLCC network access is provided to students for academic work. Files on the SLCC network, such as Bruinmail, Canvas, and OneDrive, are not private and are subject to review for compliance with the Acceptable Use of College Computing Resources Policy.
      2. Unauthorized Use of Computers and Technology: Theft or other abuse of computer facilities and resources, including:
        1. unauthorized entry into a file, to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose;
        2. unauthorized transfer of a file;
        3. use of another individual’s identification or password;
        4. use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member, or college official;
        5. use of computing facilities and resources to send obscene or abusive messages;
        6. use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with the normal operation of the college’s computing system;
        7. use of computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright laws; or
        8. any violation of the college’s computer use policy.
        9. The current OIT Guidelines on the use of AI at SLCC support the computer use policy.
      3. Password Protection: Students are strongly encouraged to safeguard passwords and passcodes that grant access to college resources, databases, email, and other systems. Sharing passwords and passcodes that lead to academic dishonesty is grounds for disciplinary action.
    5. Personal Misconduct
      The college may sanction a student for the following acts of personal misconduct that occur on any campus or in connection with college-sponsored events, activities, or programs, regardless of location or context.
      1. Aiding/Participating in a Riot.
      2. Arson.
      3. Committing College Funds: Committing college funding, including student clubs or organizations, without written approval will result in the student being responsible for the money owed, the student being removed from the club or organization, and disciplinary action being taken. No student shall enter into a contract with an outside agency using the college's name. Contracts entered into in violation of this rule shall be the student's personal responsibility.
      4. Copyright Infringement.
      5. Damage to Property
      6. Dishonesty.
      7. Disorderly Conduct.
      8. Endangerment.
      9. Explosive Devices: Unauthorized possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or sale of illegal fireworks, incendiary devices, or other dangerous explosives.
      10. Failure to Comply: Refusal to follow the directions of authorized college officials (staff, faculty, administrators) in the performance of their duties, including failure to identify oneself when requested to do so; failure to comply with the terms of a disciplinary sanction; refusal to vacate a college facility when directed to do so.
      11. Falsification of Academic Records or Documents.
      12. Falsification of Identity.
      13. Falsification of Information.
      14. Fire/Safety Equipment: Unauthorized setting of fires on college property; unauthorized use of or interference with fire equipment and emergency personnel.
      15. Gambling and Betting: Unlawful gambling and betting, in any form, at the college or any college-sponsored event is prohibited.
      16. Harassment.
      17. Lewd or Indecent Conduct.
      18. Interference with Dissemination of Information.
      19. Intimate Partner Violence.
      20. Littering: Intentional littering, including, but not limited to, unapproved distribution of materials, handouts, flyers, etc., is prohibited.
      21. Minors on Campus: Minors are not permitted in classrooms at any time unless enrolled in the course or approved on a case-by-case basis by the course faculty member or administrative staff.
      22. Obstruction.
      23. Parking: Students are expected to comply with parking regulations. Parking spaces for persons with disabilities and visitors’ areas are reserved for those purposes. Vehicles improperly parked in those areas may be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense.
      24. Physical Abuse.
      25. Possession of Weapons: Possession of any weapon, potential, or facsimile of a weapon on any college property contrary to law or college policy.
      26. Possession/Distribution/Consumption of Alcohol: Unauthorized possession, use, or supplying alcoholic beverages to others contrary to law or college policy. SLCC prohibits:
        1. Public intoxication, use, or possession of alcoholic beverages on college property and at college events or activities;
        2. Providing or possessing alcohol contrary to law.
      27. Student organizations that serve or permit possession of alcoholic beverages at student organization functions, on or off campus, may be disciplined if violations of alcoholic beverage laws or college regulations occur. Individual students who plan, sponsor, or direct such functions also may be subject to sanctions.
      28. Possession/Distribution/Use of Illegal Drugs or Controlled Substances: Unauthorized possession, manufacture, sale, distribution, or use of illegal drugs, any controlled substance, or drug paraphernalia. This may also include being under the influence of illegal drugs or unauthorized controlled substances. Medical Cannabis is considered a controlled substance and is not permitted on campus (see college policy).
      29. Recording of Hearings, Meetings, and Academic Instruction: Audio-recording communications, including lectures or other academic events, are prohibited unless the appropriate faculty member or college administrator receives prior permission. A student with a disability may seek a reasonable accommodation from Accessibility & Disability Services to allow audio recordings. Designated administrative meetings and student hearings may be audio recorded so long as the recording device is in plain view and those in attendance are aware the communication is being audio recorded. This section does not apply to monitoring or recordings pursuant to court orders or other legitimate law enforcement activities).
      30. Retaliation.
      31. Sale/Distribution of Firearms/Controlled Substances: Sale of any firearms or controlled substance from college property or using college facilities, including computer accounts and telephones.
      32. Sexual Assault.
      33. Sexual Exploitation.
      34. Sexual Harassment.
      35. Sexual Misconduct.
      36. Smoking/E-Cigarettes: Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited within 25 feet of any entrance or ventilation access of any building on any college site except where federal laws apply and greater distances are posted.
      37. Solicitation of Funds.
      38. Stalking/Hazing/Cyber-Bullying.
      39. Theft.
      40. Threatening or Intimidating Behavior.
      41. Travel Policies and Procedures: All student travel, whether as a class or club activity, must be approved by appropriate college officials. Each student participating in travel must follow college policy.
      42. Unauthorized use of College Facilities.
      43. Unauthorized use of College Property.
      44. Unauthorized use of College Resources.
      45. Verbal Abuse.
      46. Violation of State or Federal Criminal Law.
      47. Violence.
  5. Student Accountability Procedures

    SLCC accountability procedures will be used to determine responsibility for violations of the Code and the appropriate consequences for policy violations.

    1. The college’s accountability procedures are separate from formal legal proceedings.
    2. The procedures for imposing sanctions are designed to provide students with due process, procedural fairness, and developmental growth opportunities, to ensure equal protection for all students, and to provide for the imposition of similar sanctions for similar acts of misconduct.
    3. At the same time, the procedures reflect the need to be concerned about the individual student involved in a particular case. The procedures provide that the imposition of sanctions must also be based upon a consideration of all circumstances in a particular case, including a student’s prior record of misconduct, if any.
    4. For the purposes of the Code, business days are based upon the college’s academic calendar and exclude weekends, holidays, and official college break periods and closures.
    5. Business days will be counted during active academic terms. Calendar days between academic terms will not be counted due to limited faculty/staff/student availability during break periods.
    6. The timelines established within this code outline the maximum timeframes for each step.
    7. The college’s ability to proceed with substantive determinations and actions in a particular case shall not be impaired by minor deviations from these procedures that do not have the effect of preventing a student from responding fully to a charge of misconduct.
    8. The procedures are intended to be used to determine whether violations of the Code occurred, impose sanctions, or provide supportive measures.
    1. General Principles
      1. The college intends that proceedings under the Code not only resolve misconduct charges but also have educational benefit for the students involved.
      2. Every effort will be made to ensure that students are encouraged to speak for themselves throughout the process of addressing alleged code violations.
      3. Students may have an advisor, including an attorney at their own expense, to accompany them at any or all stages of the process.
      4. Students with disabilities substantially affecting communication or students who cannot effectively communicate in the English language may seek a reasonable accommodation from the office of the dean of students to allow an interpreter or advisor to interpret or translate the proceedings.
      5. Coursework performed while misconduct proceedings are underway shall be considered conditional. Conditional work may be affected or eliminated based on a final finding of misconduct or sanction imposed.
      6. This may result in loss of course credit, a delay in the awarding of a degree, or revocation of a degree that was awarded before a final decision in the misconduct proceedings.
      7. If either academic or personal misconduct is discovered that may impact degree conferral or graduation, the vice president for Student Affairs may elect to withhold posting of the degree pending completion of misconduct proceedings.
      8. After a degree has been conferred, if the college determines that an academic integrity sanction is warranted, the college may revoke the degree.
      9. Before degree conferral, if the college determines that an academic integrity sanction is warranted, the dean of students office shall conduct an investigation to determine a recommendation on degree conferral to the provost for Academic Affairs.
      10. Faculty may remove a student from an on-campus or off-campus activity or program, as outlined in the Faculty Prerogatives in Maintaining A Safe, Supportive, And Effective Learning Environment Policy.
      11. A student may be removed summarily based on the terms of any agreement between the college and a third party regarding student placement or academic experience. When a student is dismissed from a clinical program or other third-party placement based on the terms of an agreement with that third party, the student may not grieve the dismissal under the Code.
      12. Removal from an academic activity or program becomes part of the student’s disciplinary record only after a final determination that the student engaged in academic or personal misconduct under these procedures.
      13. Any deadline set out in these procedures may be extended by the relevant authority only for good reason shown.
    2. Addressing Academic Integrity Accountability:
      1. The academic integrity accountability procedures address two key issues:
        1. whether a student breached an academic integrity responsibility, and if so,
        2. what sanctions are appropriate.
      2. Academic Integrity Accountability Procedures: The procedures for handling students who are suspected of violations of academic integrity are as follows:
        1. Step One: Inform Student of Allegations
          1. A faculty member who suspects a student of academic dishonesty must inform the student in writing of the alleged violation within ten calendar days after the discovery of the violation.
          2. The faculty member shall offer to meet with the student to discuss the violation and provide evidence of the allegations.
          3. The faculty member may inform and/or request assistance from their department chair/associate dean.
          4. In cases where the student claims the alleged dishonesty is a result of a disability, the faculty member will involve the Accessibility & Disability Services advisor or director in any subsequent deliberative due process.
        2. Step Two: Conduct Investigation/Possible Sanction(s)
          1. Within five business days after informing the student of the alleged violation, the faculty member may investigate to further substantiate the allegation(s), including meeting with the student to discuss the violation/provide evidence of the alleged misconduct.
          2. If the student chooses not to meet with the faculty member and/or the student cannot be reached, a decision will be rendered in the student’s absence.
          3. Following the investigation, if there is sufficient merit to the allegation(s), the faculty may impose sanction(s) for academic dishonesty. The faculty member will notify the student of the sanction(s).
        3. Step Three: Decision and Appeal Process
          1. Within ten calendar days after the imposition of a decision and possible sanction(s) by the faculty member, the student may submit a written appeal to the appropriate academic dean.
          2. The dean will review the findings from the decision made by the faculty member and render their decision.
          3. The dean will notify the student, in writing, of their decision to uphold, modify, or dismiss the decision and possible sanction(s) imposed by the faculty member.
          4. The dean's decision is final and may not be appealed.
          5. The dean of students office will be notified upon any finding of academic integrity violations and sanctioning for purposes of documenting and monitoring a student’s compliance with any imposed sanction(s).
          6. In cases where academic dishonesty has been repeated by a student or is of an especially serious nature, the dean of students may recommend the imposition of additional sanctions, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion from the college.
    3. Sanctions for Academic Integrity Violations
      After finding a student responsible for acts of academic integrity violations, possible sanctions include, but are not limited to:
      1. verbal warning and reprimand;
      2. restriction of privileges, such as access to lab facilities, library facilities, or testing centers;
      3. failure of the exam, quiz, project, or other assessment;
      4. failure for the course;
      5. withdrawal from the course; or
      6. withdrawal from the academic program.
    4. Addressing Personal Responsibility Violations
      1. Disciplinary proceedings for acts of personal responsibility violations, excluding alleged Title IX violations (see the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy), are governed by the following procedures:
        1. Disciplinary proceedings for an act of personal responsibility violation that is committed simultaneously with an act of academic integrity violation are governed by the following procedures unless the dean of students and the faculty member involved agree otherwise.
        2. Any person may make a report that a student has committed an act of personal misconduct to the dean of students office.
        3. The dean of students may designate representatives to conduct fact-finding investigations, serve as conduct hearing officers, and recommend sanctions.
        4. After reviewing a report, the dean of students has the discretion to decide whether disciplinary proceedings should be instituted.
        5. A student has the right to view their disciplinary file with proper notice to the dean of students.
      2. Personal Misconduct Procedures:
        1. Step One: Inform Student of Allegations
          1. Within five business days of the reported allegation, the dean of students will provide written notice to the parties.
          2. The notice will include a description of the alleged act(s), the student’s right to contest the allegation, the time and place of the alleged act(s) if known, and a summary of the information upon which the alleged misconduct is based.
          3. The student has the right to an advisor at their own expense throughout the student accountability process.
          4. The student is entitled to a presumption of innocence. A preponderance of the evidence will establish responsibility for all alleged misconduct.
          5. The respondent will be informed of the name(s) of the complainant(s) and any witnesses, except in the case of sexual harassment, sexual assault, sexual violence, or a perceived or direct threat.
        2. Step Two: Investigation, Judicial Conference, and Sanctions
          1. Students must meet with the dean of students within the time-frame indicated in the written notice.
          2. An investigation will be conducted to determine if the allegations are of merit.
          3. The student will be given an opportunity to present their case during the meeting with the dean of students.
          4. If the student chooses not to meet with the dean of students and/or the student cannot be reached, a decision will be rendered in the student’s absence, and the student forfeits their right to any appeal.
          5. The student will be notified in writing of the findings, the sanction(s), and their rights to request an appeal.
          6. If the student is facing suspension of ten calendar days or more or expulsion, the following procedures also apply:
            1. A dean of students designee will conduct the investigation.
            2. The parties will have access to any material evidence in the institution’s possession, unless the material is subject to legal privilege, at least eight (8) days before the hearing.
            3. During the hearing, the parties may give opening and closing statements, examine and cross-examine witnesses, introduce relevant evidence, and have support, guidance, or advice from an advisor at the student’s expense.
            4. The dean of students will set deadlines, outline procedures, and inform the parties of their rights and responsibilities during the hearing.
        3. Step Three: Appeal Process
          1. If the student rejects the findings and/or sanction(s) of the dean of students, they may request an appeal to the Student Standards Committee.
          2. The student must submit a written request for an appeal to the office of the dean of students within ten business days of receiving notification of the findings and sanction(s).
          3. A request for an appeal must clearly state the grounds for which they are appealing the decision of the dean of students. Grounds for appeal are as follows:
            1. If due process was not appropriately administered in accordance with this policy;
            2. New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of the determination became available; or
            3. The dean of students had a conflict of interest or bias that affected the outcome.
          4. The chair of the Student Standards Committee, or designee, may either deny or grant the request for the appeal within ten business days. They must consult with the Office of General Counsel while making their determination. The decision to deny or grant the appeal will be provided to the student in writing by the chair of the Student Standards Committee.
      3. The Student Standards Committee shall be comprised of a chair and 10 other members including four faculty members, four staff members, and up to two students appointed by the vice president for Student Affairs.
        1. If the chair of the Student Standards Committee grants the request for appeal, a team of three committee members will convene to review all information provided and conduct a hearing to determine the validity of the claim for appeal.
        2. The Student Standards Committee shall act as an impartial hearing board and shall schedule the appeal hearing within ten business days of the decision to grant a hearing. Delays, if needed, will be communicated to all parties.
        3. During the appeal hearing, the student shall have the right to present any relevant evidence and witnesses.
        4. Unless prohibited by reasonable circumstances, each party shall provide to the committee copies of the documents and other evidence they intend to submit and a list of witnesses they would like to call during the appeal hearing to the Student Standards Committee Chair no later than five business days before the hearing.
        5. Neither the rules of civil procedure nor the formal rules of evidence govern these hearings.
        6. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Student Standards Committee chair will submit the committee’s findings and recommendation to the vice president for Student Affairs.
        7. Within five business days after receiving the recommendation from the Student Standards Committee, the vice president for Student Affairs shall dismiss, modify, or uphold the recommendation of the Committee and may consult with the Office of General Counsel in rendering a decision. The decision will be provided to the student in writing.
        8. The decision of the vice president for Student Affairs is final and may not be appealed.
    5. Sanctions for Personal Accountability Violations
      Sanctions: The dean of students is authorized to impose any one or a combination of the following sanctions after finding a student accountable for acts of personal misconduct. Student disciplinary record retention guidelines are indicated below.
      1. Written Warning. A student may be given a written warning stating that they will receive additional sanctions if they violate the Code. A written warning will remain a part of a student’s disciplinary record until graduation.
      2. Reflective Activity. A student may be required to complete a reflective activity, such as writing a letter of apology or other written activity, demonstrating the student’s learning and increased understanding of the college’s expectations regarding behavior.
      3. Administrative Withdrawal. A student may be administratively withdrawn from any or all courses during the semester in which the violation of college policy occurred. A withdrawal will remain on the student’s transcript permanently and on the student’s disciplinary record until graduation.
      4. Disciplinary Probation. A student may be placed on disciplinary probation with a written warning that states the period of time, any other conditions, and notification that further violations of the Code may result in additional disciplinary sanctions, including suspension or expulsion from the college. As a condition of probation, the student may be required to participate in a specific program, such as a counseling program or an alcohol education program, or to provide a specific service, such as repairing or restoring any property damaged or taken by the student. A record of any disciplinary probation will remain a part of a student’s disciplinary record for five years after a student graduates.
      5. Restitution. A student may be required to pay the cost for the replacement or repair of any property damaged by the student. If the student fails to pay the cost or make the repairs, the student may be subjected to additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion. A record of any restitution that a student is required to pay will remain a part of a student’s disciplinary record until graduation.
      6. Participation in a specific program. A student may be required to participate in a specific program at their own expense, such as student support case management, a counseling program, a program designed to stimulate good citizenship within the college community, an alcohol education program, anger management, or any other activity which would foster civic engagement. If the student fails to participate in the program as directed, the student may be subjected to additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion. The student must provide the college with verification of program completion and evidence of personal well-being. Program completion must be verified by a certified agency or appropriately licensed health care provider or mental health counselor. A record of participation in any specific program that a student is required to complete will remain a part of a student’s disciplinary record until graduation.
      7. Provision of a specific service. A student may be required to provide a specific service, such as repairing or restoring any property damaged or taken by the student. If the student fails to provide the service as directed, the student may be subjected to additional sanctions, including suspension or expulsion. Completion of a specific service will remain a part of a student’s disciplinary record until graduation.
      8. Suspension. A student may be prohibited from participating in all aspects of college life for a specified period of time (some portion of which may be deferred at the discretion of the dean of students). When a student is suspended from the college, the suspension applies to all college campuses. The dean of students is required to notify the Office of the Registrar and Academic Records to indicate the suspension on all copies of the student’s academic transcript. When the suspension term ends, the Registrar will remove the notation from the student’s transcript. A record of the term of suspension will remain a permanent part of the student’s disciplinary record.
      9. Expulsion. A student may be dismissed from the college permanently. When a student is expelled from the college, the expulsion applies to all college campuses. The dean of students is required to notify the Office of the Registrar and Academic Records to permanently indicate the expulsion on all copies of the student’s academic transcript. The student may not, after that, petition for readmission to the college. A record of expulsion will remain a permanent part of the student’s disciplinary record.
      10. Deferred Sanction. Sanctions of expulsion and suspension from the college may be deferred for a period of time, not to exceed one year, with the condition that lesser sanction(s) be completed and/or no further violations are committed within that period of time. If the deferred sanction is imposed, the following apply:
        1. If the lesser sanction(s) is/are completed in the time period assigned, the deferred sanction will not be implemented.
        2. If the lesser sanction(s) cannot be completed in the time period assigned due to medical, academic, or personal reasons, the student may apply, in writing, to the dean of students for an extension of that time period. The written request, with supporting documentation, must be submitted at least three business days before the end of the time period. The student must show they have completed a significant portion of their lesser sanction(s). The dean of students will deliver a decision about the extension to the student within ten business days after receipt of the request.
        3. If the lesser sanctions are not completed in the time period, no extension has been granted, or the student is found responsible for a new violation, the deferred sanction will automatically go into effect, and the student will have no further opportunity to appeal the deferred sanction.
        4. Deferred suspensions that are put into effect will begin in the semester in which the lesser sanction deadline was not met or in which a new violation occurred.
        5. A suspended student risks losing all tuition and fees for the semester in which the suspension is implemented. They will be graded according to the coursework submitted before the suspension.
        6. A record of a deferred sanction will remain a part of a student’s disciplinary record for five years after the student graduates (or permanently if the suspension has been implemented).
  6. Temporary Action
    1. Individual Student
      1. A student may be temporarily suspended and excluded from college property and programs pending an investigation by the dean of students or designee.
      2. The dean of students, in consultation with the vice president for Student Affairs, may impose temporary suspension before the hearing procedures established in the Code if the dean of students and vice president for Student Affairs determine that the student’s continued presence on the campus constitutes a serious threat of harm to any other person at the college or to the property of the college or the property of other persons on the college campus.
      3. A student who is temporarily suspended and excluded from the college shall be required to leave the property immediately and shall be notified that they will be treated as a trespasser if they return to the college without prior approval from the dean of students office. Within 24 hours after the student is temporarily suspended, a written notice with the conditions of their temporary suspension will be sent to the student by electronic and certified mail. The student will also be informed of their rights to due process and other rights within the Code.
    2. Misconduct by Student Organization or Athletic Team
      1. A complaint that a student organization or athletic team has violated the Code may be filed against the organization as a whole, the athletic team, or against individual members.
      2. The dean of students will initiate accountability proceedings against the organization or athletic team.
      3. Complaints against individuals are handled in accordance with the Code.
  7. Miscellaneous
    1. Advisors
      1. Complainants, respondents, and anyone providing testimony is entitled, at their expense, to be accompanied by an advisor, including an attorney.
      2. The student’s advisor may actively advise their student during accountability proceedings as indicated in the Code.
      3. The student must provide written notice to the dean of students at least 72 hours before the accountability proceedings if they will have an advisor present.
    2. Student Appeal of a Grade
      1. When a student believes the final grade they received in a course is inaccurate, they should first address the issue with their instructor.
      2. This process must be initiated within 30 calendar days of receiving the grade. The instructor and the student should make every effort to resolve the issue. Most, if not all, misunderstandings are expected to be resolved at this level.
      3. If the grade or status issue is not resolved with the faculty member, the student meets with the appropriate chair or associate dean. If the grade status issue is not resolved, then the student may appeal, in writing, to the appropriate academic dean.
      4. The academic dean will review the appeal and render a decision based on the student’s written appeal. The decision of the academic dean is final and may not be appealed.

Date of last executive cabinet review: April 8, 2025

The originator of this policy & procedure is the dean of students. Questions regarding this policy may be directed to the originator by calling 801-957-4776.