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Institutional Policies
A complete text of all institutional policies is available in the office of the Dean of Student Development and Services and is located on the TRCC website.
Affirmative Action Policy/Nondiscrimination Statement
The Community College System of Connecticut will not discriminate against any person on the grounds of race, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, marital status, mental retardation, sexual orientation, learning disability, or physical disability, including, but not limited to, blindness, or prior conviction of a crime, unless the provisions of sections 46a-60(b), 46a-80(b), or 46a-81(b) of the Connecticut General Statutes are controlling or there is a bona fide occupational qualification excluding persons in one of the above protected groups. With respect to the foregoing, discrimination on the basis of sex shall include sexual harassment as defined in section 46a-60(8) of the Connecticut General Statutes. Although it is recognized that there are bona fide occupational qualifications, which provide for exception from employment prohibitions, it is understood these exceptions are to be applied pursuant to section 46a-68-33 of the administrative regulations.
Further, the system will not discriminate against any person on the grounds of political beliefs or veteran status.
For more information, contact Dr. George Rezendes, Director of Institutional Research/Equal Employment Opportunity Officer, 574 New London Turnpike, Norwich, CT 06360, 860.892.5774, room C113a.
Racism and Acts of Intolerance Policy
The Community Colleges have long been committed to providing educational opportunities to all who seek and can benefit from them, as evidenced in the mission statements and policies concerning student rights, affirmative action, and equal opportunity. The Board and the Colleges recognize that an important part of providing opportunity is creating a welcoming environment in which all people are able to work and study together, regardless of their differentness. At the same time, colleges and universities have traditionally been at the cutting edge of protection of our most cherished freedoms, most notably freedom of speech and non-violent action, which protect even unpopular or divisive ideas and perspectives.
Such constitutionally-protected expression can contribute to an unwelcoming and even offensive social and educational environment for some individuals in the college community, particularly when it concerns race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or ethnicity, and the first amendment does not preclude colleges from taking affirmative steps to sensitize the college community to the effects of creating such a negative environment.
Therefore, the Community Colleges recognize that they have an obligation not only to punish proscribed actions, but also to provide programs which promote pluralism and diversity and encourage the college community to respect and appreciate the value and dignity of every person and his or her right to an atmosphere not only free of harassment, hostility, and violence but supportive of individual academic, personal, social, and professional growth.
Acts of racism or harassment directed against individuals or specific groups of individuals will not be tolerated and will be dealt with under the employee affirmative action grievance procedures and the student grievance and disciplinary procedures.
Each college will provide a comprehensive educational program designed to foster understanding of differentness and the value of cultural diversity. This will include plans to (1) promote pluralism, (2) educate the college community about appropriate and inappropriate behaviors to increase sensitivity and encourage acceptance, and (3) widely disseminate this policy statement to the entire college community.
People with Disabilities Policy
The Board of Trustees of Community-Technical Colleges and all of the colleges under its jurisdiction are committed to the goal of achieving equal educational opportunity and full participation for people with disabilities in the Community Colleges. To that end, this statement of policy is put forth to reaffirm our commitment to ensure that no qualified person be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity on a Community College Campus or in the Central Office of the Board of Trustees.
The Board recognizes that a physical or functional impairment is a disability only to the extent that it contributes to cutting the person off from some valued experience, activity, or role. Higher education is therefore especially important to people with disabilities, since it aims to increase every student’s access to valued experiences, activities, and roles. Improving access for students and employees means removing existing barriers that are physical, programmatic, and attitudinal; it also means taking care not to erect new barriers along the way. The efforts of the Community Colleges to accommodate people with disabilities should be measured against the goals of full participation and integration. Services and programs best promote full participation and integration of people with disabilities when they complement and support, but do not duplicate, the regular services and programs of the college. Achieving the goal of full participation and integration of people with disabilities requires cooperative efforts within and among institutions of higher education. The Board of Trustees will work with the board of governors to achieve a higher level of services and appropriate delivery methods at all Connecticut Community Colleges. This statement is intended to reaffirm the Board’s commitment to affirmative action and equal opportunity for all people and in no way to replace the equal opportunity policy statement.
AIDS and Other Communicable Diseases Policy
The Community College System reaffirms its commitment to provide a safe and healthy educational environment, safeguard the rights of individuals, and comply with state and federal anti-discrimination laws and regulations. Sound and compassionate legal, ethical, moral, and educational principles require that students and employees with AIDS, HIV infection, and other communicable diseases be accorded the same rights and assume the same responsibilities as all other members of the Community College community. It is recognized that the best method of allaying fears and promoting understanding is education: the dissemination of information based on fact and current scientific knowledge.
People with AIDS and other communicable diseases shall be accorded the same rights as all other students and employees. State and federal laws and regulations prohibit discrimination against and harassment of individuals solely because of disability. No individual shall be discriminated against in any college programs, services, or employment solely because of his or her status as AIDS or HIV-infected or having any other communicable disease.
Each college shall provide information and educational programs and activities concerning AIDS and other communicable diseases for students and employees. Such information and programs shall rely on the most current knowledge about such diseases and shall focus on how such diseases are and are not transmitted, how they can be prevented, and the rights of persons with such diseases.
Each college president shall designate an individual responsible for coordination, delivery, and evaluation of the college AIDS education program. A committee representative of the college community should be involved in formulating educational and information activities.
Restrictions shall not be placed on admission, programs, services, or employment offered to an individual on the basis of a diagnosis of AIDS, HIV infection, or other communicable disease, except in individual cases when it has been medically determined that there is risk of infection or danger to others or in programs from which individuals with specific communicable diseases are excluded by law or regulation.
Colleges shall not require testing of students or employees for AIDS, HIV infection, or other communicable diseases for participation in employment, programs, or services of the college, except as required by law or regulation. Where possible, colleges shall maintain a listing of local referral sources for such testing and shall publish such listing with other educational information.
All student or employee information related to inquiries, testing, and disclosure of AIDS, HIV, or other infection status shall be treated confidentially as all other health records. All reasonable steps shall be taken to protect the identity of an individual with AIDS.
Students and employees involved in the direct delivery of health care services and those who might otherwise come in contact with blood and other body fluids (such as in science laboratories) shall at all times follow the guidelines regarding precautions to be taken in the handling of such fluids disseminated by the Department of Health Services (January 1987) or other approved guidelines.
Violations of any part of this policy shall be dealt with under the appropriate disciplinary procedures for students or employees.
This policy shall be published in all college catalogs and student handbooks and shall be made available to all employees.
Drugs and Alcohol in the Community Colleges Policy
The Board of Trustees of Community-Technical Colleges endorses the statement of the network of colleges and universities committed to the elimination of drug and alcohol abuse, which is based on the following premise:
American society is harmed in many ways by the abuse of alcohol and other drugs - decreased productivity, serious health problems, breakdown of the family structure, and strained social resources. Problems of illicit use and abuse of substances have a pervasive effect upon many segments of society - all socio-economic groups, all age levels, and even the unborn. Education and learning are especially impaired by alcohol abuse and illicit drug use.
The Board recognizes that education regarding alcohol and substance abuse is an appropriate and even necessary part of contemporary college life. Since the unauthorized use of controlled substances, in addition to the potential harmful effect it may have on students and employees, is contrary to state and federal law and regulation, it must be prohibited in any college activity, on or off the college campus.
Although the conditions of alcohol and drug dependency may be considered disabilities or handicaps under state and federal law and regulation and Board of Trustees policy, and employees and students will not be discriminated against because they have these disabilities, all students and employees are considered to be responsible for their actions and their conduct.
These provisions shall apply to all colleges under the jurisdiction of the Board:
1. No student or employee shall knowingly possess, use, distribute, transmit, sell, or be under the influence of any controlled substance on the college campus or off the college campus at a college-sponsored activity, function, or event. Use or possession of a drug authorized by a medical prescription from a registered physician shall not be a violation of this provision.
2. All colleges shall develop and enforce policies regarding the sale, distribution, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus, subject to state and federal law. Consistent with board policy, the consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus may only be authorized by written permission of the president for special events as appropriate.
3. All colleges shall provide educational programs on the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and referral for assistance for students and employees who seek it. Colleges are encouraged to establish campus-wide committees to assist in development of these programs in response to particular campus needs and identification of referral resources in their respective service planning regions.
Failure to comply with this policy will result in invocation of the appropriate disciplinary procedure and may result in separation from the college and referral to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.
Students are urged to seek information, advice, or confidential counseling regarding drugs and/or alcohol by contacting the counseling staff. Also, Three Rivers is prepared to refer students to appropriate professionals (medical, legal, psychiatric, etc.) according to the needs of the individual student. Contact will be held in complete confidence. A student who ignores opportunities for help and assistance and who willfully violates College policies and the law faces disciplinary action as outlined in the Policy Statement on Student Discipline.
The College’s full policies and programs on the Drug Free Workplace and Drug Prevention are published separately. Copies of these policies and programs are available to students through the Dean of Student Services.
Student Rights Policy
Section 1: Rights of Students
It is the policy of the Board of Trustees of Community-Technical Colleges that the educational offerings of the Community Colleges be available to students without regard to the individual’s race, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, marital status, mental retardation, sexual orientation, or physical disability, including, but not limited to, blindness, or prior conviction of a crime (unless the provisions of sections 46a-60(b), 46a-80(b), or 46a-81(b) of the Connecticut general statutes are controlling or there is a bona fide educational qualification excluding persons in one of the above protected groups). With respect to the foregoing, discrimination on the basis of sex shall include sexual harassment as defined in Section 46A-60(8) of the Connecticut General Statutes. Further, the system will not discriminate against any person on the grounds of political beliefs or veteran status.
Students are entitled to an atmosphere conducive to learning and to impartial treatment in all aspects of the teacher-student relationship. The student should not be forced by the authority inherent in the instructional role to make particular personal choices as to political action or his or her own part in society. Evaluation of students and the award of credit must be based on academic performance professionally judged and not on matters irrelevant to that performance, whether personality, race, religion, degree of political activism, or personal beliefs. Students are free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study, but they are responsible for learning the content of the course of study as defined by official college publications.
Community College students are both citizens and members of the academic community. As citizens they enjoy the same freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and right of petition that other citizens enjoy, and as members of the academic community they are subject to the obligations which accrue to them by virtue of this membership.
Section 2: Student Grievance Procedure
1. Definition: A grievance is an allegation by a student that, as to him or her, an agent of the college has violated board or college policies relating to students other than assignment of grades or other academic evaluation (see Section 3).
2. How to file a grievance: A grievance is to be submitted in writing to the dean of students or such other college official as the president may designate (hereinafter, the dean of students), within thirty days of the date the grievant knew or reasonably should have known of the alleged violation. The written grievance shall specify the right claimed to have been violated and state briefly the underlying facts.
3. Procedure for grievance resolution: The dean of students shall investigate the grievance and, within thirty days from the time the grievance was submitted recommend to the president a disposition of the grievance, except as provided hereinafter:
a. In the course of each investigation, the dean of students shall consult with the dean responsible for the area of college operations in which the grievance arose.
b. In the case of a grievance alleging discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, marital status, mental retardation or physical disability, prior conviction of a crime, political beliefs, veteran status, or sexual preference, the dean of students shall consult with the college’s affirmative action person during the course of the investigation.
c. In the case of a grievance against a dean, the grievance shall be filed with the president. The president may accept or reject the recommendation, or direct such further investigation as he or she deems appropriate. The president shall notify the student of the final disposition of the grievance within fifteen days of receiving the recommendation, except for good cause or as provided in number 4.
4. Advisory Committee: The president may establish an advisory committee of students and staff which may be charged with the responsibility of making recommendations at either the level of the deans or the president. The president may appoint and remove members of the committee. If an advisory committee is appointed, the president shall establish a reasonable time frame within which the committee must make recommendations.
Section 3: Review of Academic Standing
A student may seek review of the assignment of a grade or other decision affecting academic status in accordance with the following procedure:
1. The grade or academic decision affecting academic status should be discussed informally with the instructor/official responsible for the decision within fifteen calendar days of the student’s awareness of the decision.
2. If the matter is not satisfactorily adjusted within ten calendar days of this appeal or the instructor is not available, the student may refer the matter to the academic dean by filing a written appeal. The appeal must be filed with the academic dean within thirty calendar days of the student’s awareness of the decision, which is being appealed.
Upon receipt of such appeal, the dean shall meet with the instructor, if he or she is available, to determine that step 1 has taken place or is not possible and to receive relevant information from the instructor responsible for the decision. The dean may then refer the matter to the academic supervisor for informal consideration prior to step 3.
3. The academic dean or other designated official(s) shall afford review as provided below. The president may designate an official or an academic appeals committee to provide review at this step in lieu of the academic dean.
4. The student shall be afforded the right to present a statement of appeal and relevant information in support of it. It is the student’s responsibility to show that the decision in question is arbitrary (i.e., without a reasonable basis) or was made for improper reasons in violation of section 1 of this policy. The student is entitled to a written response within thirty days of the completion of his or her presentation. A decision to change the grade or modify the decision, which has been appealed, is advisory to and subject to the approval of the president.
5. The foregoing decision may be appealed to the president by filing a statement of appeal within ten calendar days of the date of the decision. Review by the president shall be on the basis of the written record unless he or she decides that fairness requires broader review. The decision of the president shall be final.
The president, for good cause shown, may modify the time frames provided herein.
Student Discipline Policy
Section 1: Student Conduct Philosophy
Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students and the general well-being of society. This Policy is intended to ensure that members of the College community are able to pursue their goals in an atmosphere free from unreasonable interference or threat of interference.
This Policy is also intended to foster the development of important values, including accountability, responsibility, fairness, respect for self and others, appreciation of personal freedoms and a recognition of the importance of physical safety in the College community. Compliance with the Policy provides an opportunity to develop and practice skills in leadership, group process, decision making and ethical and moral reasoning. Students who demonstrate these values and possess these skills are more likely to find success and fulfillment in their academic, professional, family and personal endeavors.
This Policy sets forth a number of expectations for student conduct and prescribes procedures for enforcement. Since students are assumed to be at various stages of moral and social development, sanctions imposed should attempt to assist students in their growth and development, wherever possible. However, the paramount consideration must always be to protect members of the College community and the educational process from harm.
Section 2: Application of the Student Conduct Policy
This Policy applies to student conduct on campus and on other property or facilities owned, controlled or used by the College. It also applies to student conduct on premises not owned, controlled or used by the College if the off-campus conduct impairs College-related activities or affairs of another member of the College community or creates a risk of harm to any member or members of the College community.
Conduct on or off College premises that is prohibited by federal, state or local law, codes and ordinances is also covered. Students who engage in behavior prohibited by law may be subject to civil or criminal sanctions as well as to the sanctions of this Policy.
Additionally, where a court of law has found a student to have violated the law, a College has the right to impose the sanctions of this Policy even though the conduct does not impair the College-related activities of another member of the College community and does not create a risk of harm to the College community. The decision to exercise this right will be in the sole discretion of the President or his/her designee.
For purposes of the Policy on Student Conduct, a "student" is any person who has registered for at least one (1) course, credit or non-credit, at the College. Student status continues in effect for two (2) calendar years after the conclusion of the last course in which the student was registered, unless the student has formally withdrawn from the College, graduated or been expelled.
Section 3: Expectations for Student Conduct
Consistent with the Student Conduct Philosophy set forth in Section 1 of this Policy, students are expected to:
1. Demonstrate respect for the College community by acting in accordance with published Board policies and College rules and regulations.
2. Demonstrate academic integrity by not engaging in conduct that has as its intent or effect the false representation of a student’s academic performance, including but not limited to: cheating on an examination, collaborating with others in work to be presented, contrary to the stated rules of the course, plagiarizing, including the submission of others’ ideas or papers (whether purchased, borrowed or otherwise obtained) as one’s own, stealing or having unauthorized access to examination or course materials, falsifying records or laboratory or other data, submitting, if contrary to the rules of a course, work previously presented in another course, and knowingly assisting another student in any of the above, including an arrangement whereby any work, classroom performance, examination, or other activity is submitted or performed by a person other than the student under whose name the work is submitted or performed.
3. Demonstrate respect for the property of the College and of others by not damaging or destroying or attempting to damage or destroy such property, and by not possessing or attempting to possess such property without authorization, including unauthorized entry to or use of College premises.
4. Demonstrate respect for others by: refraining from conduct that constitutes a danger to the personal health or safety of one’s self or other members of the College community and guests or licensees of the College, including intentionally causing or attempting to cause injury; refraining from conduct that obstructs or seriously impairs or attempts to obstruct or seriously impair College-sponsored or College-authorized activities; and refraining from harassment, which is defined as conduct that is abusive or which substantially interferes with a person’s pursuit of his or her customary or usual affairs.
5. Demonstrate respect for others by refraining from sexual misconduct (see the Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence Statement).
6. Be truthful in all matters and not knowingly make false statements to any employee or agent of the Board or the College with regard to a College- related matter, nor forge, alter or otherwise misuse any document or record.
7. Comply with the directions of College staff members acting within the scope of their employment responsibilities.
8. Contribute to a safe and healthy learning and working environment by refraining from the unauthorized possession or use of weapons or dangerous instruments as defined by law and pursuant to Board Policy, and by refraining from possessing or using other objects in a manner that causes harm, threatens or endangers oneself or others.
9. Respect oneself and others in the community by refraining from knowingly possessing, using, transferring, selling or being under the influence of any controlled substance, as defined by law, or possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages unless specifically authorized, pursuant to Board Policy. Use or possession of a drug authorized by prescription from a licensed medical practitioner is not covered by this statement.
10.Refrain from any unauthorized use of electronic or other devices to make an audio or video record of any person while on College premises without his/her prior knowledge or without his/her expressed consent.
11. Demonstrate good citizenship by not engaging in conduct prohibited by federal, state or other laws.
12. Conduct oneself in a civil and respectful manner, both within and outside the College.
Students who are found to have violated any of the above-stated expectations by any means, such as electronic, computer, telephone, internet, text, electronic storage devices or any other means of any kind whatsoever wherever it may occur or whether or not on campus may be sanctioned.
Students may be sanctioned for behavior that is not in accordance with the above-stated expectations.
Section 4: Sanctions
The prior conduct record of a student shall be considered in determining the appropriate sanction for a student who has been found to have violated any part of Section 3 of this Policy. Sanctions shall be progressive in nature; that is, more serious sanctions may be imposed if warranted by the prior conduct record of the student.
A "sanction" may be any action affecting the status of an individual as a student taken by the College in response to a violation of this Policy, including but not limited to the following:
1. "Expulsion" is a permanent separation from the College that involves denial of all student privileges, including entrance to College premises.
2. "Suspension" is a temporary separation from the College that involves denial of all student privileges, including entrance to college premises for the duration of the suspension, and may include conditions for reinstatement.
3. "Removal of College privileges" involves restrictions on student access to certain locations, functions and/or activities but does not preclude the student from continuing to pursue his/her academic program.
4. "Probation" is a status that indicates either (a) serious misconduct not warranting expulsion, suspension or removal of College privileges, or (b) repetition of misconduct after a warning has been imposed.
5. A "Warning" is a written notice to the student indicating that he or she has engaged in conduct that is in violation of Section 3 of this Policy and that any repetition of such conduct or other conduct that violates this Policy is likely to result in more serious sanctions
6. "Community restitution" requires a student to perform a number of hours of service on the campus or in the community at large.
Section 5: Procedures
The following procedures shall govern the enforcement of this Policy:
1. Information that a student may have violated this Policy should be submitted to the Dean of Students or other designee of the President (hereinafter referred to as "the Dean"), normally within thirty (30) days of the date of a possible violation or within thirty (30) days of the date that the facts constituting a possible violation were known.
2. Upon receipt of information relating to a possible violation, the Dean may immediately place restrictions on or suspend a student on an interim basis if, in the judgment of the Dean, the continued presence of the student at the College or continued participation in the full range of college activities poses a danger to persons or property or constitutes an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process.
"Interim restrictions" are limitations on the student’s participation in certain College functions and activities, access to certain locations on campus or access to certain persons, that do not prevent the student from continuing to pursue his/her academic program. A student upon whom the Dean has placed interim restrictions shall be afforded written reasons for the restrictions, as well as the time period during which the interim restrictions shall apply. The decision of the Dean regarding interim restrictions shall be final.
"Interim suspension" is the temporary separation of the student from the College that involves the denial of all privileges, including entrance to College premises. Prior to imposing an interim suspension, the Dean shall make a good faith effort to meet with the student. At this meeting, the Dean shall inform the student of the information received and provide the student an opportunity to present other information for the Dean’s consideration. Based upon the information available at that time, the Dean shall determine whether the student’s continued presence on campus poses a danger to persons or property or constitutes an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process. A student suspended on an interim basis by the Dean shall be provided written reasons for the suspension and shall be entitled to an administrative conference or a hearing as soon as possible, normally within ten (10) business days from the date the interim suspension was imposed. The decision of the Dean regarding an interim suspension shall be final.
3. Following the imposition of interim restrictions or interim suspension, if any, the Dean shall promptly investigate the information received by meeting with individuals who may have knowledge of the matter, including the accused student, and by reviewing all relevant documents. If upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is insufficient reason to believe the student has committed a violation of any part of Section 3 of this Policy, the Dean shall dismiss the matter and shall so inform the student in writing.
4. If, upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is reason to believe the student has committed a violation of any part of Section 3 of this Policy and, after considering both the possible violation and the prior conduct record of the student, that a sanction of less than suspension or expulsion is appropriate, the Dean shall schedule an administrative conference with the student. The student shall be given reasonable notice of the time and place of the conference. At the administrative conference, the student shall have the opportunity to present information for the Dean’s consideration. At the conclusion of the administrative conference, the Dean shall determine whether it is more likely than not that the student has violated the Policy and, if so, impose a sanction less than suspension or expulsion. The Dean shall provide the student with a written explanation for the determination. The decision of the Dean shall be final.
5. If, upon the conclusion of the Dean’s investigation, the Dean determines that there is reason to believe the student has committed a violation of any part of Section 3 of this Policy and, after considering both the violation and the prior conduct record of the student, that a sanction of suspension or expulsion is appropriate, the Dean shall provide the student with reasonable written notice of a meeting and shall inform the student that his/her failure to attend the meeting or to respond to the notice may result in the imposition of the maximum permissible sanction. At the meeting, the Dean shall provide the student with a written statement that shall include the following:
a concise statement of the alleged facts
the provision(s) of Section 3 that appear to have been violated
the maximum permissible sanction and
a statement that the student may resolve the matter by mutual agreement with the Dean, or may request a hearing by notifying the Dean in a writing, which must be received by 5 p.m. on the following business day.
6. If the student requests a hearing, he/she is entitled to the following:
to be heard, within five (5) business days, or as soon as reasonably possible, by an impartial party or panel whose members shall be appointed by the Dean
if the Dean appoints an impartial panel, to have a student on the panel, if requested by the student
to appear in person and to have a nonlawyer advisor. However, if there is pending at the time of the hearing a criminal matter pertaining to the same incident that is the subject of the hearing, a lawyer may be present for the sole purpose of observing the proceedings and advising the student concerning the effect of the proceedings on the pending criminal matter
to hear and to question the information presented
to present information, to present witnesses and to make a statement in his or her behalf
to receive a written decision following the hearing.
(See Section 6 for additional procedures regarding sexual misconduct.)
7. As used herein, the term "impartial" shall mean that the individual was not a party to the incident under consideration and has no personal interest in the outcome of the proceedings. Prior to the commencement of the hearing, the student who is subject to the hearing may challenge the appointment of an impartial party or panel member on the ground that the person(s) is (are) not impartial. The challenge shall be made in writing to the Dean and shall contain the reasons for the assertion that the person(s) is (are) not impartial. The decision of the Dean shall be final.
8. The written decision of the impartial party or panel shall specify whether, based on the information presented, it is more likely than not that the student committed the violation(s) reported and shall state the sanction to be imposed, if any. The written decision shall be provided to the student.
9. Sanctions imposed by an impartial party or panel are effective immediately. The President may, for good cause, suspend imposition of the sanctions imposed by the impartial party or panel to allow the student time to prepare a written request for review. If a written request is received, the President may continue to suspend imposition of the sanctions until he has reviewed and acted on the student’s request.
10. A written request for review of the decision of the impartial party or panel must be received by the President within three (3) calendar days after the student is notified of the decision and must clearly identify the grounds for review. The review by the President is limited to the record of the hearing, the written request and any supporting documentation submitted with the request by the student. The decision of the impartial party or the panel shall be upheld unless the President finds that (a) violation of the procedures set forth herein significantly prejudiced the student; and/or (b) the information presented to the impartial party or panel was not substantial enough to justify the decision; and/or (c) the sanction(s) imposed was (were) disproportionate to the seriousness of the violation.
11. Decisions under this procedure shall be made only by the college officials indicated.
Section 6: Additional Hearing Procedures for Sexual Misconduct Cases
In any hearing conducted pursuant to Section 5, paragraph 6 of this Policy and involving allegations of sexual misconduct, the accuser and the accused student shall each have the right to:
be accompanied by a support person during the hearing (see Section 5, paragraph 6c of this policy regarding limited right to have a lawyer present.); and
receive a written report from the Dean indicating the determination of the impartial party or panel and the sanction(s) imposed on the accused student, if any.
Section 7: Miscellaneous
The written decision resulting from an administrative conference or a hearing under this Policy shall become part of the student’s educational record and shall be subject to the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). While student educational records are generally protected from disclosure by FERPA, there are a number of exceptions to this rule. Students should be aware that a record concerning his/her behavior while a student at the College may be shared with other colleges or universities to which the student may subsequently wish to transfer or be admitted. Similarly, prospective employers may require a student to provide access to his/her College records as part of the employment application process. A record of having been sanctioned for conduct that violates Section 3 of the Policy may disqualify a student for admission to another college or university, and may interfere with his/her selection for employment.
Any question concerning the interpretation or application of this Policy on Student Conduct should be referred to the President or his/her designee.
Section 8: Publication of Student Conduct Policy
This Policy shall be published in College catalogs and student handbooks and should be distributed in other ways that are likely to ensure student awareness of the Policy.
Section 9: Policy Review
Five years following adoption of this Policy, and as often thereafter as the Chancellor shall deem appropriate, the Chancellor shall designate a committee to review the Policy on Student Conduct, as necessary.
Sexual Misconduct and Relationship Violence Statement
To insure that each member of the Connecticut Community College community has the opportunity to participate fully in the process of learning and understanding, the Connecticut Community Colleges strive to maintain a safe and welcoming environment free from acts of sexual misconduct and relationship violence. It is the intent of the Colleges to provide safety, privacy and support to victims of sexual misconduct and relationship violence.
Sexual Misconduct is defined as: Non-consensual sexual intercourse, which includes any sexual intercourse (anal, oral, or vaginal), however slight, with any body part or object, by a man or a woman, without effective consent.
Non-consensual sexual contact, which includes sexual touching, however slight, with any object, by a man or a woman, without effective consent.
Sexual exploitation, which includes non-consensual, unjust or abusive sexual advantage taken by a student of another, for his or her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage any one other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute non-consensual sexual intercourse, non-consensual sexual contact or sexual harassment. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to: prostitution, videotaping consensual sex without a partner’s consent, peeping tommery and knowingly transmitting sexually transmitted infections without a partner’s knowledge.
Definition of Consent
Consent must be informed, freely and actively given, involving an understandable exchange of affirmative words or actions, which indicates a willingness to participate in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. It is the responsibility of the initiator to obtain clear and affirmative responses at each stage of sexual involvement. The lack of a negative response is not consent. Consent may not be given by a minor or by any individual who is incapacitated, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, by drugs and/or alcohol. Past consent of sexual activities does not imply ongoing future consent.
Stalking is defined as: Any behaviors or activities occurring on more than one (1) occasion that collectively instill fear in the victim and/or threaten her/his safety, mental health and/or physical health. Such behaviors or activities may include, but are not limited to, whether on or off campus, non-consensual communications (face to face, telephone, e-mail, etc.), threatening or obscene gestures, surveillance or being present outside the victim’s classroom or workplace.
Relationship Violence is defined as: Physical abuse, which can include but is not limited to, slapping, pulling hair or punching.
Threat of abuse, which can include but is not limited to, threatening to hit, harm or use a weapon on another (whether victim or acquaintance, friend or family member of the victim) or other forms of verbal threat.
Emotional abuse, which can include but is not limited to, damage to one’s property, driving recklessly to scare someone, name calling, threatening to hurt one’s pets and humiliating another person.
Sexual harassment, which can include any unwelcome sexual advance or request for sexual favors, or any conduct of a sexual nature when submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education; submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for academic decisions affecting the individual; or such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment. Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to:
sexual flirtation, touching, advances or propositions
verbal abuse of a sexual nature
pressure to engage in sexual activity
graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or appearance
use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual
display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or photographs
sexual jokes
stereotypic comments based upon gender
threats, demands or suggestions that retention of one’s educational status is contingent upon toleration of or acquiescence in sexual advances.
The definitions contained in this statement are in addition to any applicable provisions of state law.
Confidentiality
While the College will treat reports of sexual misconduct and relationship violence seriously and with sensitivity for all concerned, the College can not assure complete confidentiality in all instances with respect to such information, particularly when that information pertains to an offense or an alleged offender that may affect the safety of others on campus or is mandated to be reported.
Time for Reporting
Normally reports must be received by the Dean of Students or other designee of the President within thirty (30) days of the date of a possible violation or within thirty (30) days of the date the facts constituting a possible violation were known. However, the College recognizes that the decision to file a report of sexual misconduct or relationship violence is difficult and may take some time. Because memories may fade and witnesses may become inaccessible, the sooner information is gathered, the greater is the ability of the College to effectively investigate and resolve the matter fairly to all parties concerned.
Sexual Harassment Policy
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination which is illegal under state and federal law and is also prohibited by the Board of Trustees’ Nondiscrimination Policy. The Board’s policy recognizes that sexual harassment undermines the integrity of employer-employee and student-faculty-staff relationships and interferes with the right of all members of the College community to work and learn in an environment free from harassment. Such conduct will not be tolerated.
Sexual harassment may be described as:
Any unwelcome sexual advance or request for sexual favors, or any conduct of a sexual nature when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or education, (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment or academic decisions affecting the individual, or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect or substantially interfering with an individual’s academic or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive employment or educational environment.
Sexual harassment may be verbal, visual or physical. It may be overt or implicit and may, but need not, have tangible adverse effects on the victim’s employment or learning experience.
Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment include but are not limited to: (a) sexual flirtation, touching, advances or propositions; (b) verbal abuse of a sexual nature; (c) pressure to engage in sexual activity; (d) graphic or suggestive comments about an individual’s dress or appearance; (e) use of sexually degrading words to describe an individual; (f) display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures or photographs; (g) sexual jokes; (h) stereotypic comments based upon gender; and (i) threats, demands or suggestions that retention of one’s employment or educational status is contingent upon toleration of or acquiescence in sexual advances.
The perpetrator of sexual harassment, like the victim of such conduct, may be a man or a woman. Sexual harassment may involve individuals of the same or opposite sex and, in the College environment, may involve an employee and a student, an employee and another employee or a student and another student. Harassment in any of these relationships is a violation of the Board’s policy.
Because of the power relationship between faculty and student, and between supervisor and subordinate employee, freedom of choice may be compromised in such relationships. Accordingly, this policy holds that where a faculty member or professional staff member has responsibility for a student through teaching, advising, supervision or other obligation, romantic or sexual liaisons between such persons shall be deemed a violation of this policy. Romantic or sexual liaisons between supervisors and subordinate employees, while not prohibited are strongly discouraged.
It should be noted, additionally, that retaliation against a person for complaining or being associated in any way with the resolution of a complaint of sexual harassment also violates Board policy.
What to Do If You Are the Victim of Sexual Harassment
When an employee or student feels that he or she has been the victim of sexual harassment, he or she should report such incident(s) to a College official.
• Employees may report incidents of sexual harassment to the Dean of the area of the College in which the individual is involved, the College Affirmative Action Officer, or any other college official who has been designated by the president as a recipient of such complaints.
• Students may report incidents of sexual harassment to the Dean of Students or to such other College official as the president may have designated. Nothing shall prevent students from speaking to a college counselor about their concerns. However, such communication is not a substitute for filing a complaint of sexual harassment with an appropriate college designee.
• A claim that an employee of a third party contractor has engaged in sexual harassment on College premises or in connection with the performance of the third party contract should be reported immediately either to the president or to another appropriate College official as set forth in this document. The president will ensure that appropriate follow-up action is taken.
Depending on the nature of the complaint and the desires of the complainant, the College official to whom the complaint has been made may attempt to resolve the complaint informally.
Any informal resolution of a complaint must be approved by the College President. No person shall be forced to pursue informal avenues of resolution before filing a formal complaint of sexual harassment.
If informal resolution is not possible or appropriate, a written complaint should be filed in accordance with the existing Affirmative Action Grievance Procedure for Employees (see Board Policy 2.1.3) or Student Grievance Procedure for students (see Board Policy 5.2.2).
• For employees, a written complaint should be filed within fifteen (15) calendar days of the alleged harassment. This time frame may be extended by up to fifteen (15) additional calendar days, if efforts at informal resolution have been made.
• For students, a written complaint should be filed within thirty (30) days of the date the grievant knew or should have known of the alleged harassment. However, a delay in filing a formal complaint will not be a reason for refusing to investigate such complaints. Although the ability to investigate may be compromised by delay, a written complaint will be treated in the manner prescribed by this policy, if filed within 180 days of the date the student knew or should have known of the alleged harassment.
When a formal complaint of sexual harassment is received, the College will investigate it. The rights of all persons involved in the investigation shall be respected and every effort will be made to protect the confidentiality of both the alleged victim and the alleged harasser. Toward this end, only persons with a need to know shall be made privy to the complaint. However, complete anonymity cannot be assured, given the College’s obligation under law to investigate and take appropriate action in all cases of sexual harassment.
All complaints of sexual harassment shall be taken seriously. It is expected that complaints will be made in good faith, however. Frivolous or vexatious complaints can cause irremediable damage to the reputation of an accused person, even though he or she is subsequently vindicated. Therefore, any person who files a false complaint of sexual harassment, shall himself or herself be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, if an employee, or expulsion, if a student.
In addition to invoking the available grievance procedure, an employee who believes he or she has been sexually harassed, may file a complaint with the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities, 21 Grand Street, Hartford, CT 06106 and/or with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, One Congress Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, within 180 days of the date when the harassment occurred.
A student who believes he or she has been sexually harassed may, in addition to the available grievance procedure, file a complaint with the federal Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education (Region 1), John W. McCormack Post Office and Courthouse, Room 222, Post Office Square, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
Publication of Sexual Harassment Policy
This document shall be distributed to all members of the College community. Notice of the Board’s policy against sexual harassment also shall be given to any independent contractor with whom a College has a business relationship, as a mandatory part of that contract.
Campus Security Policies and Crime Statistics
In compliance with State of Connecticut Campus Safety Act, P.A. 90-259 and Public Law 101-542, Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act, Three Rivers Community College hereby publishes the following summary of institutional security policies and uniform crime reporting procedures. This information is intended to raise the awareness of all members of the College community to campus safety issues in hopes that this awareness will foster continued attention to and improved security for all college students and staff.
Uniform Campus Crime Report
Annually, each institution of higher education within the State is required to prepare a Uniform Campus Crime Report (UCCR), which is consistent with the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting System (UCR). The report is to reflect the crime statistics on the property of the institution for the preceding calendar year and covers crimes such as rape, assault, burglary, larceny, and arson.
Distribution of Crime Statistics and Security Reports
These crime statistics and security reports are published in the student handbook. Copies of the student handbook are distributed annually to all students and employees. Prospective students and prospective employees will be advised of the availability of this information, a description of its contents, and information on how to obtain a copy. Information will be provided as requested.
Copies of the crime report will also be on file in the library, in the office of each Dean, and on the College web site.
The College is also required to monitor and report on any liquor law violations, drug abuse violations, and weapons violations occurring on campus. Copies of these crime statistic reports are available upon request in the office of each Dean and in the library.
Weapons on College Campuses Policy
The use or possession of weapons (as defined in Section 53-206 of the Connecticut General Statutes) is prohibited on campus or at college activities except as authorized by Board or college policies. Colleges are hereby authorized to develop policies, which allow for specific exemptions to the extent permitted by law.
Smoking Policy
Smoking is permitted on the Three Rivers campus only in specifically designated locations, which change from time to time. Smokers may refer to the college web site for information about current locations or refer to sign-age posted at the college.
Since the success of this program is largely dependent on the support of the entire college community, everyone, including smokers and non-smokers are asked to comply or assist with the following new rules:
Do not smoke or use tobacco products in front of the main campus or within 100 feet of any entrances or windows (unless in a specifically designated smoking area).
To the fullest extent possible try to extinguish smoking materials before leaving your vehicle.
Only light up and use tobacco products within the designated areas, not en-route to these locations.
Dispose of used tobacco products only in the trash receptacles provided, not on the ground.
If violations are noted, please remind students, staff or visitors involved about these new rules and about the location of authorized smoking areas.
Please report any habitual or flagrant violations to any of the Three Rivers’ management staff.
Disturbances on Campus Policy
In the interest of assisting in the preservation of academic freedom, including the important characteristics of access to sources of knowledge, freedom to reach unpressured conclusions, and respect for freedom of movement, and the performance of responsibilities relating to this, the Board of Trustees of Community-Technical Colleges sets forth the following policies to guide faculty, students, and administrators in cases of disruptions on campuses of the public community colleges of Connecticut.
1. College staff, faculty, and students shall be free to exercise their rights as professional staff, students, and citizens of the United States or as foreign nationals protected by the laws of the United States respecting those professionals and humane courtesies which contribute to the success of the academic community.
2. The president, staff, faculty, and students should work to maintain study and research of ideas and facts of humanity and the universe, lawful free assembly, access to sources of knowledge, and the freedom of staff to perform teaching and administrative functions.
3. The Board of Trustees believes that activities as listed below and those akin to them might result in the need to take disciplinary action to maintain the right and opportunities for all segments of the campus community to learn and to teach and to administer:
a. occupying and preventing authorized use of facilities
b. damaging, removing, or destroying college property
c. preventing instruction, research, or other authorized activity by disorderly conduct and/or interfering with access to facilities
d. physically detaining or removing any person engaged in lawful and/or normal college functions
e. failing to comply with directives from college officials or law enforcement personnel issued in the performance of their duties.
Policies List
Additional College Policies Published in Other Sections of this Catalog
Please click on policy to view.
Academic Standards of Progress Policy
Academic Warning, Probation and Suspension Policy
Acceptance of Transfer Credit at Community Colleges Policy
Repayment Policy for all Federal Aid Recipients
Updated: 4/28/2010
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