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Other Policies


Recruitment            back to top
Although the primary responsibility for recruitment lies with the Recruiter and the Director of Enrollment Management , it is the philosophy of Lanier Technical College that recruitment is a responsibility of all team members. To that end, all team members assist with recruitment activities in a variety of ways. These activities include but are not limited to the following: PROBE Fairs, Career Fairs and Expos, Area Festivals, School Visits, Campus Tours, Classroom/lab Visits, Adult Education Program Visits, and Business and Industry Visits.

Student Records            back to top
The Registrar and her staff maintain a permanent record on all students which includes admissions data, educational record, work ethics history, and termination status. In keeping with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (1974), they maintain the confidentiality of personal and academic records. Upon written request, they issue transcripts which detail academic history, transfer credit, and honors and awards. In conjunction with program advisors, the Registrar’s staff advises students on academic, transfer, and graduation issues.

Support Services            back to top
The Coordinator of Disability Services works to meet the particular needs of students with disabilities including the physically challenged and the learning challenged. The coordinator collaborates with faculty and staff to help them meet the needs of this student population both in and out of the classroom. Appropriate documentation of disability must be provided.

The Coordinator of Disability Services provides counseling and refers students to appropriate community agencies such as the Department of Family and Children Services, Health Department, Mental Health Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, Gateway House, and other community services. Students may also be referred to the free Tutoring Lab for academic assistance.

Accidents, Personal Illness or Injury            back to top
Any student who becomes seriously ill or who is injured on campus or at a college-related activity should notify his/her instructor immediately. In the event the instructor is not available, the student should notify the Office of Student Affairs. First aid supplies for minor injuries are available in many classrooms and laboratories and in the Office of Student Affairs. For serious illness or injury which prevents the student from transporting himself/herself to get medical attention, the instructor will call for an emergency vehicle (911) and then notify the Office of Student Affairs immediately. Members of the College Administration will aid in directing the emergency vehicle to the appropriate location and arrange for someone to remain with the ill or injured student so that the instructor does not have to leave his/her class unattended.

Accident Investigation            back to top
For every accident, an Accident Report should be completed by the student and instructor and forwarded immediately to the Vice President for Student Affairs who will forward copies of the report to the Safety Coordinator for review and referral to the Safety Committee.

Insurance            back to top
Student accident insurance covers the student during participation in official college activities on or off the campus during regular college hours when under the supervision of an instructor or organization advisor. The policy provides no payment of any kind for injury, death, or any loss caused by injuries sustained while operating or while a passenger in or on any two-or-three wheel motor vehicle. The student insurance policy covers only bodily injuries due to accidents and is not guaranteed to pay the full amount on any claim. Students who feel this coverage is not sufficient should contact their insurance agent for additional coverage.

 Liability Insurance            back to top
Some programs have a liability insurance fee that must be paid annually. These fees are not covered by traditional financial aid (PELL Grant, HOPE Grant, HOPE Scholarship, etc.). A student can complete an online authorization to deduct this fee from PELL or HOPE book awards. The fees range from $10.20 to $42.60 depending on the program.

Students in the following programs are assessed fees for liability/malpractice insurance. Students in the EMT (Basic, Intermediate, Parmedic) programs are also assessed fees for a background check. These fees are determined according to courses taken and the term that the fee is supposed to be charged. Charges are assessed based on the quarter that courses which require liability insurance or a background check are taken. Insurance fees are paid to Lanier Technical College. Background check fees are paid to the certifying agency.
  • Certified Nurse Assisting
  • Cosmetology
  • Cosmetic Esthetician
  • Dental Assisting
  • Dental Hygiene
  • Early Childhood Care and Education
  • EMT (Intermediate, Plus)
  • Firefighter/EMT
  • Medical Assisting
  • Medical Laboratory Technician
  • Paramedic Technology
  • Pharmacy Assistant
  • Phlebotomy Technician
  • Practical Nursing
  • Radiologic Technology
  • Surgical Technology

Student Insurance Claims            back to top
Students who require medical treatment for accidents/injuries that occur during their scheduled college hours must complete an Accident Report Form and return it to the Office of Student Affairs to file a claim with their student insurance. The forms may be obtained from their instructor or from the Office of Student Affairs. If possible, an Insurance Information for Accidental Injury Service Provider Form should be taken to the medical facility at the time of treatment. This form notifies the provider that an itemized statement is to be sent to the Office of Student Affairs. The Service Provider form may also be obtained from their instructor or the Office of Student Affairs. When an itemized statement from the medical facility is received by the Office of Student Affairs, a claim form is completed and mailed to the insurance company. It is the responsibility of the company to determine benefits to be paid.

Change of Name or Address            back to top
Students should inform the Office of Student Affairs of any change in name, address, phone number, or status. Change Forms are available in the Office of Student Affairs. If such changes are not reported, students may not receive grade transcripts, various announcements, etc.

General Catalog & Student Handbook           back to top
The General Catalog & Student Handbook contains detailed information on the college's services, policies, and regulations. It gives detailed information on programs and courses offered at Lanier Technical College. This information is available at new student orientation and is easily accessible on the college web site.

Photo ID            back to top
Photo ID cards are issued to students their first quarter at Lanier Tech each academic year. IDs are valid for one academic year. Retakes are done at announced times during the quarter. Student ID cards may be used to participate in student activities, to check out books at the library or media center, and to obtain discounts in some local businesses. Contact the Office of Student Affairs to obtain additional information on Photo IDs.

Visitors            back to top
Visitors are welcome at Lanier Technical College. On the Oakwood Campus, visitors should register in the main office in Building 100. On the Forsyth Campus, visitors should register in the Office of Student Affairs/Admissions Office in Building A. On the other campuses, visitors should register with the receptionist at the main entrance. Students are not to take friends or relatives to the classroom without approval from the Vice President of Academic Affairs or the Vice President for Student Affairs. One day's notice is considered appropriate. Children are not to be brought to class. Groups (high school classes, clubs, etc.) wishing to visit the campus may contact the Office of Admissions to make an appointment.

Vehicles on Campus            back to top
Driving and parking a vehicle on campus is a privilege and not a right. The cooperation of everyone operating vehicles on campus is essential to traffic control and safety. Vehicles may be left on campus overnight or over a weekend only with the permission of the Vice President of Administrative Services. Parking for Lanier Technical College students is permitted in any space excluding designated spaces listed below. Student vehicles parked in any of the areas listed below are considered in violation of parking policy and will be ticketed:

  • Staff, Faculty, and Administration
  • Visitors
  • Handicapped
  • Fire Lanes, Labs, and Shop Areas
  • Cosmetology Patrons (Oakwood Campus)
  • Outside of curbing and any other unpaved areas
  • Gainesville State College parking lots.
Parking for staff, faculty, administration, and visitors is clearly marked on/in designated spaces. Parking spaces for handicapped students are marked in blue, and handicapped signs are displayed. Students may enter the campus only from marked entrances and must follow arrows of traffic flow.

On the Oakwood Campus, the driveway around Building 100 is one-way traffic and is limited to loading, unloading, and official business only.

The parking area toward Gainesville State College is reserved for Cosmetology patrons only. Cosmetology patrons must display a valid cosmetology patron slip while parked in this area. Failure to comply with this policy may result in a parking ticket being issued. If a student receives a ticket, a hold will be placed on the student's account preventing registration, transcript requests, etc. Towing at the owner's expense may occur when parking regulations are violated. Students should display a parking hang-tag on the rear view mirror of their vehicles. Parking permits are issued during registration. Students who need an additional permit or who change vehicles during the quarter must contact Administrative Services. Each student is allowed two free parking permits. Any additional permits will cost $3 each.

Vehicular Accidents on Campus            back to top
Vehicular accidents on campus should be reported to the appropriate county Sheriff's Office or Police Department who will complete and file the necessary report. This report will be available to individuals involved in the accident. Anyone desiring a report must contact the appropriate county Sheriff's Office or Police Department.

Severe Weather            back to top
A Tornado Watch means that weather conditions are such that a tornado may develop. When a tornado watch is in effect for a Lanier Technical College location, appropriate contacts will be made to the affected locations providing updates regarding the weather to the appropriate staff at these facilities.

A Tornado Warning means that a tornado has formed and been sighted. A Tornado Warning issued by the National Weather Service will be communicated to students and faculty immediately upon notification of the situation. Students must proceed to designated hallway areas. Designated areas will be explained in student orientation. Students on clinical assignment should follow severe weather procedures for their assigned office or hospital. When the Tornado Warning has been canceled, students will be signaled to return to class.

Hazardous Weather: Any announcement of college closings due to inclement weather will be made over the local radio and TV stations. Every effort will be made to announce the college closing by 6:30 a.m. If day classes are canceled, evening classes are also canceled. This announcement will also be posted at www.laniertech.edu when possible.

Tobacco Free Environment            back to top
Lanier Technical College has created a tobacco-free environment in all of its buildings on all campuses. No smoking or tobacco use is permitted in any buildings or entrance ways into buildings. The research on health risks associated with tobacco use and the hazards of second-hand smoke led to this stance. Use of tobacco products is permitted in the following areas on the Dawson Campus:
  • Student Parking Lots
  • Outside the Student Center
Use of tobacco products is permitted in the following areas on the Forsyth Campus:
  • Student Parking Lots
  • Patio Area Outside the Student Center
  • Covered Area at the end of Building B
Use of tobacco products is permitted in the following areas on the Jackson County Campus:
  • Covered area in front of the building
Use of tobacco products is permitted in the following areas on the Oakwood Campus:
  • Picnic tables located between Building 100 and Building 200.
  • Picnic tables located in the grassed areas of Student Parking between Buildings 100 and Building 500.
  • Student automobiles in Student Parking areas.
  • Open area outside the Student Center in Building 300.
Use of tobacco products is permitted in the following areas on the Winder-Barrow Campus:
  • Student parking lots
  • Patio tables outside the back of the building.

These are the only areas where tobacco use will be permitted. Students violating this policy are subject to disciplinary action.

Please take pride in our campuses and assist us with keeping these areas free of litter and the remains of tobacco products. Receptacles will be provided in these areas for that purpose. Failure to keep these areas litter free may result in discontinuance of this privilege.

Emergency Procedures           back to top

The Safety and Emergency/Disaster plan is available to students by calling the Office of the Vice President of Administrative Services.

Emergency Evacuation: During emergencies, all individuals should proceed to their designated assembly areas and remain there until the all-clear signal is given. Under no circumstances are students to go to their automobiles or attempt to remove them from the parking lot. All traffic lanes must be clear for emergency vehicles and traffic. The primary and secondary routes for emergency evacuation in case of fire or bomb threat are posted in each department. Students should become familiar with exit routes during student orientation.

Fire drills will be held periodically to familiarize students with the fire alarm system and evacuation routes. Fire drills will be indicated by a non-interrupted blast of the fire alarm. When the fire alarm is sounded, all students, faculty, and staff must exit the building immediately by their primary means of egress. If the primary route is blocked by fire or explosion, the secondary egress route should be used. Students will be signaled to return to class by reactivating the fire alarm.

Business Hours            back to top
Normal business hours are from 7:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Friday. The Office of Student Affairs remains open until 7:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday when classes are in session. Hours are extended for the first week of class each quarter.

Student Responsibilities & Rights            back to top
The following responsibilities and rights are listed to support the concept that students should be responsible citizens and, as such, they are guaranteed certain rights. Students have a responsibility to attend college regularly, and a right to learn and develop those skills and knowledge needed to function in society. Students have a responsibility to use counseling services that are provided for them for their own educational and personal development, and a right to be accurately informed as to the nature of guidance services available to them.

Students have a responsibility to make the most of the educational experiences made available to them, and a right to an education which is appropriate to their needs. Students have a responsibility to become informed and to express their opinions in a suitable manner, and a right to form and express their own opinions without jeopardizing their relations with their instructor. Students have a responsibility to not discriminate against any other person because of race, age, sex, creed, national origin, or handicap. Students have a right to expect no discrimination because of race, sex, age, creed, national origin, or handicap. Students have a responsibility to maintain reasonable grades according to their ability, and a right to receive an academic grade that reflects their achievement.

Students have a responsibility to discuss grievances informally with persons involved before invoking formal grievance action, and a right to a standard procedure for resolution of grievances. Students have a responsibility to publish and post information that does not disrupt the orderly operation of the college as determined by the President, and a right to know the criteria that will be applied in selection of information or materials they wish to post or include in their publications. Students have a responsibility to respect the persons and property of others, and a right to expect that their person and property will not be violated by others while on campus. Students have a responsibility to know and observe the institution rules and laws that govern their conduct, and a right to have clear understanding of the rules of student conduct made available to them. Students have a right to privacy of person, as well as freedom from unreasonable search and seizure of property. That individual right, however, is balanced by the college's responsibility to protect the health, safety and welfare of all its students.

Parents, guardians or eligible students have the responsibility of informing the college of information that will aid in making educational decisions to benefit the student, releasing information that will aid in making educational decisions to benefit the student, and meeting their financial obligations to the college. Parents, guardians or eligible students have the right to inspect, review, and challenge information contained in records directly relating to the student; the right to be protected by legal provisions which prohibit the release of personally identifiable information to other than legally authorized persons; and a right of access to cumulative records.

Acceptable Computer Use Policy            back to top
Administrative, Library, and Computer Laboratory Workstations

  1. No software is to be added to any computer, PC, or network server owned or leased by the College. Do not load personal software or download software from the Internet onto computers. Exceptions are permitted on computer laboratory workstations ONLY in those computer labs specifically designed for or equipped with removable hard drives for this purpose and ONLY as directed by the instructor for the specific course requiring such modifications. Arrangements for modifications necessary to accommodate special needs students may be made through the Office of Disability Services.
  2. Do not reconfigure screen settings, software, or hardware. Exceptions are permitted on computer laboratory workstations ONLY in those computer labs specifically designed for or equipped with removable hard drives for this purpose and ONLY as directed by the instructor for the specific course requiring such modifications. Arrangements for modifications necessary to accommodate special needs students may be made through the Office of Disability Services.
  3. Computer laboratory workstations that have CD writers installed are to be used for saving students' files/data only. Any other usage of the CD writers including reproduction of audio or software disks is subject to disciplinary action.
  4. Do not use workstations for activities that use excessive bandwidth such as chat rooms, realtime chats, e-mail chain letters, automated bulk mailing, music, or streaming video.
  5. Computer laboratory workstations may be used only as directed by the instructor.
  6. Library/Media Center workstations may be used freely for research and educational purposes and for recreational web browsing; however, students must relinquish use of workstations if others are waiting to use them for class work.
Students who violate acceptable computer use policies will receive a warning; however, continued failure to comply will result in loss of these privileges and may result in dismissal from college.
  • Software includes, but is not limited to, any storage media (CD's, diskettes, tapes, etc.) and any Internet access, whether or not files are downloaded.
Code of Conduct            back to top
It is important for all students to be aware of conduct that will lead to disciplinary action by Lanier Technical College. In order to clarify the types of conduct which shall be considered to affect adversely the college's educational function or to interfere with the rights of others to pursue their education, to conduct their college's duties and responsibilities or to participate in college activities, the Board of Directors adopts the following Code of Conduct for students:

Scope            back to top
The College may take disciplinary action for a violation of the Code of Conduct when the offense occurs on College premises or at College-sponsored events, or when an offense which occurs off campus is such that in the judgment of the Vice President for Student Affairs, failure to take disciplinary action is likely to interfere with the educational process or the orderly operation of the College, or endanger the health, safety or welfare of the College community.

Matters Subject to Disciplinary Actions            back to top
Appropriate disciplinary procedures and sanctions shall be applied to any student, acting individually or in concert with others, who commits, or attempts to commit, any of the following acts of misconduct:

  1. Action(s) or conduct which hinders, obstructs or otherwise interferes with the learning process. This includes but is not limited to the use of cell phones, pagers and radios, etc. in classrooms, labs, library/media center, and clinical settings. Use of these devices in the settings listed above will not be permitted.
  2. Actions which have great potential for physically harming the person or property of others, including that of the College, or which actually result in physical harm, or which cause reasonable apprehension of physical harm.
  3. Any type of sexual assault including rape.
  4. Making false representations to the College, including forgery and unauthorized alteration of documents, unauthorized use of any College document or instrument of identification.
  5. Academic dishonesty, including, but not limited to, dishonesty in quizzes, tests, or assignments; claiming credit for work not done or done by others; hindering the academic work of other students; misrepresenting academic or professional qualifications within or without the College; and nondisclosure or misrepresentation in filling out applications or other College records.
  6. Substantially interfering with the freedom of expression, movement or activity of others.
  7. Excessive absences or excessive tardiness.
  8. Violation of any probationary terms.
  9. Failure to meet any financial obligations to the College.
  10. Use of profanity, whether verbal, written, or electronic, is prohibited on campus and at college sponsored activities.
  11. Reckless driving on campus.
  12. Initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning or threat of fire, explosion or other emergency. Misusing or damaging fire safety equipment on College premises.
  13. Theft of property or of services; possession of property that is known to be stolen. Persons will be prosecuted.
  14. Failure to comply with the lawful directions of College officials, including campus security officers and other law enforcement officials, acting in performance of their duties.
  15. Willfully refusing or failing to leave the property of or any building or other facility owned, operated, or controlled by the College when requested to do so by a lawful custodian of the building, facility or property if the student is committing, threatens to commit or incites others to commit any act which would disrupt, impair, interfere with or obstruct the lawful mission, processes, procedures or functions of the College.
  16. Unauthorized presence in or use of College premises, facilities, or property, in violation of posted signs, when closed, or after normal operating hours. This includes entering other departments without prior approval of instructor.
  17. Illegal use, possession, or distribution of any controlled substance, illegal drug, or alcohol, on college premises or at college sponsored events.
  18. Use or possession of fireworks on College premises or at College sponsored events.
  19. Use, possession, or storage of any weapon (which includes, but is not limited to, firearms, ammunition, bombs, explosives, incendiary devices, knives, or other dangerous weapons, substances, or materials) on College premises or at College-sponsored activities, unless expressly authorized in writing by the President.
  20. Misusing College computing resources by intentionally making or receiving, accessing, altering, using, providing or in any way tampering with files, disks, programs, passwords or hardware belonging to other computer users without their permission.
  21. Receiving or transmitting offensive material through College computers.
  22. Violation of published or posted College regulations or policies, including but not limited to regulations prohibiting discriminatory activity, safety regulations, parking regulations, and regulations on designated areas for smoking, eating and drinking.
  23. Aid to others in committing or inciting others to commit any act mentioned above.
  24. Action(s) or conduct which hinders, obstructs or otherwise interferes with the implementation or enforcement of the Code of Conduct including failure to appear before any of the College's disciplinary authorities and to testify as a witness when reasonably notified to do so by an appropriate College officer.
  25. Any other acts or omissions which affect adversely College functions or College-sponsored activities, interfere with the rights of others to the pursuit of their education, or other- wise disrupts the learning process or is inconsistent with the educational objectives of the College.
  26. Violating the terms of any disciplinary sanction imposed in accordance with this Code.
1 The term "student" includes both full-time and part-time students pursuing credit or non-credit studies.
2 All references to College officers, by title, in this Code shall also include the designee(s) of that officer.


Rights of Students in Disciplinary Matters            back to top
Students' rights under the state and federal constitutions are specifically acknowledged and affirmed, including the rights of freedom of speech, freedom of association, freedom of religion, and due process. The provisions of this Code of Conduct shall be construed so as not to infringe upon these rights, as those rights are defined by law.


Disciplinary Policy and Procedure

I. POLICY:
The administration reserves the right to maintain a safe and orderly educational environment for students and staff. Therefore, when, in the judgment of college officials, a student's conduct disrupts or threatens to disrupt the college community, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken to restore and protect the atmosphere of collegiality and mutual respect on campus. This procedure is intended to provide an orderly protocol for handling student disciplinary cases in accordance with the principles of due process and justice.

II. APPLICABILITY:
This procedure is applicable to all technical colleges associated with the Technical College System of Georgia.


III. DEFINITIONS:
  1. The term "Technical College System of Georgia" is synonymous with the term "Department of Technical and Adult Education."
  2. The term Technical College means any college within the Technical College System of Georgia).
  3. The term "Student" includes all persons taking courses at the Technical College, both full-time and part-time. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the Technical College are considered "students."
  4. The term "Faculty Member" means any person hired by the Technical College to conduct teaching service, or research activities.
  5. The term "Technical College Official" includes any person employed by the Technical College, performing assigned administrative responsibilities.
  6. The term "Member of the Technical College Community" includes any person who is a student, faculty member, Technical College official or any other person employed by the Technical College.
  7. The term "Technical College premises" includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the Technical College (including adjacent streets and sidewalks).
  8. The term "Student Organization" means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for Technical College recognition.
  9. The term "Judicial Body" means any person or persons authorized by the President of a Technical College to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code or other regulations and to recommend imposition of sanctions.
  10. The term "Judicial Advisor" means a Technical College Official authorized on a case-by-case basis by the President to impose sanctions upon students found to have violated the Student Code. The President may authorize a Judicial Advisor to serve simultaneously as a Judicial Advisor and the sole member or one of the members of a Judicial Body. Nothing shall prevent the President from authorizing the same Judicial Advisor to impose sanctions in all cases. Unless otherwise noted, the "Judicial Advisor" of the Technical College is the Vice President for Student Affairs.
  11. The term "Appellate Board" means any person or persons designated by the President to consider an appeal from a Judicial Body's determination that a student has violated the Student Code, other regulations, or from the sanctions imposed by the Judicial Advisor. The President may serve as the Appellate Board.
  12. The term "shall" is used in the imperative sense.
  13. The term "may" is used in the permissive sense.
  14. The term "policy" is defined as the written regulations of the Technical College as found in, but not limited to, the Student Code of Conduct, Students Handbook(s), Residence Hall Handbook(s), Technical College Catalog(s), the Technical College Policy Manual, and the Policy Manual approved by the State Board for the Technical College System of Georgia.
  15. The term "cheating" includes, but is not limited to: (1) use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, or examinations: (2) dependence upon the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments; or (3) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the Technical College faculty or staff.
  16. The term "plagiarism" includes, but is not limited to, the use by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials.
  17. The term "System" means the Technical College System of Georgia.
  18. The term "business days" means, for disciplinary purposes, weekdays that the college administrative offices are open.
  19. The term "Continuing Relationship" means any person who has been enrolled as a student and may enroll in the future as a student at the Technical College.
  20. The term "Academic Misconduct" means any incident involving as any act which improperly affects the evaluation of a student's academic performance or achievement (i.e. cheating, plagiarism, etc).

IV. ATTACHMENTS:
A. Student Code of Conduct Complaint Form
B. Disciplinary Sanction Appeal Form
C. Preliminary Investigation Conference Notification and Acknowledgement Form

*Forms are located on the Lanier Technical College website (www.laniertech.edu) in the Student Affairs section under Student Code of Conduct.

V. PROCEDURE:
A. Filing a Complaint

1. Any member of the Technical College Community may file a complaint with the Vice President for Student Affairs against any student for a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The individual(s) initiating the action must complete a Student Code of Conduct Complaint Form, and forward it directly to the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee.

2. Investigation and Decision

a. Within five business days after the complaint is filed, the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee shall complete a preliminary investigation of the incident, and schedule a meeting with the student against whom the complaint was filed in order to discuss the incident and the charges. In the event that additional time is necessary, the student will be notified. After discussing the complaint with the student, the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee shall determine whether the student committed the alleged conduct, and whether the alleged conduct constitutes a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. If the student fails to attend the meeting, the Vice President for Student Affairs will make a determination based on his investigation. The student, by failing to appear waives all rights to appeal this decision.

b. In the event that a complaint alleges violations of the Student Code of Conduct by more than one student, each student's disciplinary proceeding, as well as any appeals relating to that proceeding, shall be conducted individually.

c. If the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee determines that the student committed a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, he/she shall impose one or more disciplinary sanctions consistent with those described below. If the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee determines that the alleged conduct did not occur, or that the conduct was not a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, he/she shall not impose any disciplinary sanctions on the student and the investigation shall be closed.

B. Disciplinary Sanctions

1. After a determination that a student has violated the Student Code of conduct, the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee may impose one or more of the following sanctions:

a. Restitution - A student who has committed an offense against property may be required to reimburse the Technical College or other owner for damage to or misappropriation of such property. Any such payment in restitution shall be limited to the actual cost of repair or replacement.

b. Reprimand - A written reprimand may be given any student. Such a reprimand does not restrict the student in any way, but it signifies to the student that he/she is in effect being given another chance to conduct himself/herself as a proper member of the Technical College community, and that any further violation may result in more serious sanctions.

d. Restriction - A restriction upon a student's privileges for a period of time may be imposed. This restriction may include but is not limited to denial of the right to represent the Technical College in any way, denial of use of facilities, alteration or revocation of parking privileges, or restrictions from participating in extracurricular activities.

e. Disciplinary Probation - Continued enrollment of a student on probation may be conditioned upon adherence to specified terms. Any student placed on probation will be notified of the terms and length of probation in writing. Any conduct determined after due process to be in violation of these terms while on probation may result in the imposition of more serious disciplinary sanctions, as specified by the terms of probation.

f. Failing or lowered grade - In cases of academic misconduct, the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee will make a recommendation to the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his/her designee who may authorize the instructor to award a failing or lowered grade in the course, a loss of credit on the assignment or examination, and may impose other additional sanctions including suspension or dismissal from the Technical College. Reference policy V.H. Academic standards, evaluations and appeals.

g. Disciplinary Suspension - If a student is suspended, he/she is separated from the Technical College for a stated period of time. Conditions of reinstatement, if any, must be stated in the notice of suspension.

h. Disciplinary Expulsion -Removal and exclusion from the Technical College, Technical College controlled facilities, programs, events, and activities. A record of the reason for the student's dismissal is maintained by the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee. Students who have been dismissed from the Technical College for any reason may apply in writing for reinstatement twelve (12) months following the expulsion. If approval for reinstatement is granted, students will be placed on disciplinary probation for a specified term. The probationary status may be removed at the end of the specified term at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee.

j. Interim Disciplinary Suspension - As a general rule, the status of a student accused of violations of the Student Code of Conduct should not be altered until a final determination is made regarding the charges against him/her. However, interim suspension may be imposed upon a finding by the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee that the continued presence of the accused student on campus constitutes imminent threat to the safety and well-being of the accused student or any other member of the Technical College community or its guests, or that the continued presence of the student on campus creates a risk of substantial disruption of classroom or other Technical College-related activities.

2. Violation of Federal, State, or Local Law

a. If a student is convicted or pleads Nolo Contendere to an off-campus violation of federal, state, or local law, but not with any other violation of the Student Code of Conduct, disciplinary action may be taken and sanctions imposed for misconduct that is detrimental to the Technical College's vital interests and stated mission and purpose.
b. Disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with violation of a law that is also a violation of the Student Code of Conduct if both violations result from the same factual situation, without regard to criminal arrest and/or prosecution. Proceedings under this Student Code of Conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following criminal proceedings.
c. When a student is charged by federal, state, or local authorities with a violation of law, the Technical College will not request or agree to special consideration for that individual because of his/her status as a student. The Technical College will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other agencies in the enforcement of criminal law on campus and in the conditions imposed by criminal courts for the rehabilitation of student violators. Individual students, acting in their personal capacities, remain free to interact with governmental representatives as they deem appropriate.

3. Conditions of Disciplinary Suspension and Expulsion

a. A student who has been suspended or expelled from the Technical College shall be denied all privileges afforded a student and shall be required to vacate Technical College premises at a time determined by the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee.
b. In addition, after vacating the Technical College Premises, a suspended or expelled student may not enter upon the Technical College premises at any time, for any purpose, in the absence of written permission from the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee. A suspended or expelled student must contact the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee for permission to enter the Technical College premises for a limited, specified purpose.
c. If the student seeks to submit a signed Disciplinary Sanction Appeal Form, the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee must accept the Form by mail or fax if he/she refuses the student's request to enter the Technical College premises for that specified purpose.
d. A scheduled appeal hearing before the Judicial Body shall be understood as expressed permission from the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee for a student to enter the Technical College premises for the duration of that hearing.

C. Appeals Procedure

1. A student who attended the preliminary hearing with the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee and wishes to appeal the disciplinary decision must file a written notice of appeal through the President's Office for review by the Judicial Body within five business days of notification of the decision.

2. The student will then have the right to appear in a hearing before a Judicial Body assigned by the President or his/her designee within 10 business days to present evidence and/or testimony. The student has the right to be assisted by any advisor he/she chooses, at his/her own expense. The student is responsible for presenting his/her own case and, therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any hearing before a Judicial Body. The Committee will consist of two faculty members, one staff member and two students. There shall be a single verbatim record, such as a tape recording, of all hearings before the Judicial Body. The record shall be the property of the Technical College. The Chairperson of the Judicial Body shall notify the President and the Vice President for Student Affairs in writing of the Judicial Body's decision. The Technical College President or his/her designee will notify the student in writing of the Committee's decision and the opportunity to appeal directly to the President.

3. In the event that the student chooses to contest the decision of the Student Judicial Committee, he/she has the right to appeal the decision to the President of the College within five business days of notification of the Committee's decision. The appeal to the President shall be in writing. The President shall only consider evidence currently in the record, new facts not brought up in earlier stages of the appeal shall not be considered. The President shall deliver his/her decision to the student within 10 business days. The decision of the President shall be final and binding.

D. Document Retention
The Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee shall retain a copy of all documents concerning complaints, investigations, administrative actions, and communications in relation to any incident that resulted in a disciplinary investigation of any kind against a student. The Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee will also retain records of any disciplinary appeals filed by the affected student, as well as the resulting record of appeal and decision submitted by the Student Judicial Committee. A record of the final decision must also be retained, in the event that the decision is appealed to the President. All records specified in this section shall be retained for a period of five years.

Procedure: Summary of Student Notification Requirements           back to top

Student Notification Deadline
Voter Registration, 20 U.S.C§1094(a)(23)(A) Institution must request forms from the state‘s voter registration deadline.
Drug Free Schools & Communities, Act, 20 U.S.C. §1011(i); 34 C.F.R. Annual written notice.
Financial Aid, Programs, and Athletics Information, 20 U.S.C. §86.1 et seq Annual notice
Financial Assistance Information Upon request must be made available to all students and to prospective students before they enroll or enter into any financial obligation with the institution.
Institutional Information, 34 C.F.R. §668.43 Upon request; must be made available to all current students and to all prospective students before they enroll or enter into a financial obligation with the institution.
Completion/Graduation Rate Information, 34. C.F.R. §668.45 Annually by July 1; must be made
available upon request, to all students, and to all prospective students before they enroll or enter into any financial obligation with the institution.
Annual Security Report, 34 C.F.R. §668.46 Annually to students by September 1. Submit to Secretary of Education per electronic reporting procedure established by Secretary.
Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. §1232g; 34C.F.R.§99.1 et seq. Annual notice

Student Notification Requirements            back to top

I. VOTER REGISTRATION, 20 U.S.C. §1094(a)(23)(A).
The 1998 Higher Education Act requires all post-secondary institutions to make a good-faith effort to distribute voter registration forms to each degree or certificate-seeking student that attends classes on campus, and to make such forms widely available to students. (The law does not apply in states with no voter registration requirement or where voters can register at the time of voting). The institution must request forms from the state 120 days prior to the deadline for registering to vote in the state. In Georgia, the deadline for registering is usually the fifth prior to the date of the primary or election. The law applies to all general and special elections for federal office (i.e. President, Vice President, Senator, and Representative to the U.S. Congress, see 2 U.S.C §431(3)) and includes elections for Governor