2020-2021 student handbook

mstc.edu 888.575.6782 TTY: 711 college overview

CORE VALUES Mid-State Technical College is a MISSION principled organization that operates Mid-State Technical College transforms lives with high standards. As members through the power of teaching and learning. of the Mid-State community, VISION we work diligently to weave the Mid-State Technical College is the educational following core values into the fabric provider of first choice for its communities. of everything we do to positively impact those who seek our services.

Student Centeredness We value and respect each student as a unique EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS individual. We assist each student in identifying In addition to specific job-related training, Mid-State and realizing their educational goals and work has identified a set of employability skills that are hard to create an accessible and dynamic learning transferable and go beyond the content of a specific environment. Providing each student with a positive course. The College supports the following skills for all educational experience is of vital interest to each of us. graduates of Mid-State: • Behave Responsibly—Both Individually and Commitment Cooperatively Our actions reflect our dedication to the people we serve and to the College. The success of Mid- • Communicate Effectively State depends upon our skills and abilities to • Demonstrate Effective Cultural, Social, and Global communicate, promote, and support our educational Awareness offerings, and meet the needs of our students and other stakeholders. We invest the time and energy • Demonstrate Effective Critical and Creative Thinking necessary to fulfill the mission of the College and provide a healthy and safe environment. • Use Appropriate Technology

Accountability ACCREDITATION We understand and value our individual roles in Mid-State Technical College is accredited by the Higher the College. We take responsibility for processes, Learning Commission. Mid-State was first accredited by decisions, and outcomes within our scope of the Higher Learning Commission in 1979 and has been influence. We work hard to apply our expertise to continually accredited since that time. continuously improve our systems and strengthen You may contact our accreditor at the Higher Learning organizational performance. Commission, 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, Illinois 60604-1411 (Phone: 800.621.7440 / Respect 312.263.0456, Fax: 312.263.7462, Website: We appreciate individual differences and diverse https://www.hlcommission.org). opinions and work together to create a mutually supportive environment. We treat each person with Accreditation means that Mid-State has been found dignity and appreciate the individual contributions of all. to meet the Commission’s requirements and criteria and that there are reasonable grounds for believing Integrity that it will continue to do so. Accreditation provides Our actions and words signal the institutional integrity public certification of acceptable institutional quality of our college. We embrace honesty and base our and an opportunity and incentive for Mid-State to decision making on a combination of high ethical continuously improve. standards and practical considerations.

Exceptional Service We create and improve relationships through positive interactions with others. United by a common purpose, to support and improve learning, we collaborate to provide lifelong learning opportunities that enhance the well-being of individuals, businesses, and communities.

2 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook college overview

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, HARASSMENT, AND AFFIRMATIVE ACTION Mid-State Technical College is committed to complying with state and federal equal opportunity laws and regulations and does not discriminate in its services, employment programs, and/or its educational programs and activities. Discrimination and harassment by supervisors, co-workers, students, non-employees on the basis of race, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, or other protected class is prohibited by the College. This policy is intended to comply with all applicable state and federal laws, as well as express the College’s commitment to the principles of equal opportunity for all. The College will seek continuous compliance with the following laws: Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended; Equal Pay Act of 1963 as amended; Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 and 1975; Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; the Vocational Education Amendments of 1976; Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987; Civil Rights Act of 1991; Carl D. Perkins Vocational Career and Technical Education Act; Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 as amended; Wisconsin Fair Employment Law; Chapter 38.23 of the Wisconsin State Statutes; and the Office for Civil Rights Guidelines for the Elimination of Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Sex, and Handicap in Vocational Programs (34 CFR, Part 100, Appendix B). Inquiries regarding this equal opportunity/non-discrimination policy may be directed to: Karen Brzezinski, Equal Opportunity Officer Mid-State Technical College • 500 32nd Street North, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 • 715.422.5325 A copy of this policy is available online at https://www.mstc.edu/about-us/policies/administrative-policies or by contacting Human Resources.

academic support services

ADVISING THE LINK Academic advising at Mid-State Technical College We’re here to help! LiNK services are available at all is required for all students. It provides academic, Mid-State locations and can help you prepare for your enrollment, and career advising from application future. Each location offers day and evening hours. through graduation. It is a partnership—intentional Hours of operation vary by location. LiNK services and collaborative—between student and advisor that are tuition-free to individuals 18 and over. There are empowers you to meet your educational and career no admission requirements or tuition costs for LiNK goals. Your academic advisor will work with you to services. You decide when to begin, develop your own develop an academic plan with specific goals and attendance schedule, and work at your own pace to proactively support you in following it and staying on reach your goals. track to graduation. Pre-Program Preparation See your academic advisor for: If your goal is to enter a program at Mid-State, LiNK • Career and program planning instructors can help you develop your academic skills to • Class scheduling meet program and entrance requirements. • Program changes or additions • Enroll in preparatory classes to improve math, • Dropping a class communication, and reading skills. • Academic struggles • Improve study skills, time management, and Students who receive more individual academic test-taking skills. advising are more likely to graduate on time with less • Use free materials and resources in the LiNK labs. college debt. • Continue to receive assistance with coursework in the Your academic advisor is determined by your LiNK after you have enrolled in Mid-State courses. degree program. To schedule an appointment, call 888.575.6782. Visit https://www.mstc.edu/student- resources/academic-advising for more information.

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GED/HSED Preparation LIBRARY SERVICES LiNK instructors help you prepare for Students are encouraged to investigate and use the GED/HSED testing. many resources and services available in the Mid-State • Use free study materials and computer resources LiNK. Library services are available in the LiNK at each to prepare for the General Education Development campus location. Services include a book collection, (GED®) Certificate or High School Equivalency periodicals, online resources, and assistance from LiNK Diploma (HSED). staff. Library resources support all program areas and other community interests. • Get help from instructors who guide you through the testing process. TUTORING • Learn job-seeking skills. Mid-State offers several approaches to tutoring to ensure that students have options that fit their learning English Language Learner Classes needs. We offer tutor labs, peer tutoring, and small English language learner (ELL) classes help individuals tutor groups. Tutoring services are no cost to currently learn English and how to navigate in American society. registered students. To arrange tutoring, visit the LiNK • Develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. at your location. • Gain skills to enter the workforce. TESTING CENTER • Receive assistance in preparing for the US The Testing Center provides a number of services citizenship exam. on all campuses, including Accuplacer and General • Get help entering college or a program. Educational Development (GED®)/High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED) testing. Program Student Support Have a problem with a paper for class? Don’t Accuplacer is offered at each location. To schedule, stop understand the assignment? Need some additional help by any Mid-State location or call 888.575.6782. with math? The LiNK is here for you. GED/HSED testing is available at each campus for • Assistance with general academic tasks individuals who wish to earn a General Educational • Instruction in note-taking, summarizing, reference Development (GED) certificate or High School skills, and time management Equivalency Diploma (HSED). To learn more about GED • Help with résumés and job-seeking/employability skills and HSED options, visit the LiNK for the mandatory orientation session. Once orientation is complete, • Building basic computer skills testing is scheduled at http://ged.com.

CAREER AWARENESS AND ASSESSMENT Free preparation assistance for Accuplacer and GED/ Career Awareness is a tuition-free, non-credit class HSED testing is available in the LiNK at each location. that allows adults the chance to explore a wide variety Testing accommodation services are available on each of careers that match their personal and professional campus for eligible students with disabilities referred skills, interests, and values. This is an active and dynamic by Disability Services. In Wisconsin Rapids, eligible opportunity to participate in activities designed to help students referred for testing with accommodations may answer the questions: schedule appointments in the Testing Center by stopping • Who am I? in or calling 715.422.5443, or they may work with their • Where am I going? instructors to set up testing appointments outside of class. Testing accommodations at locations without a • How do I get there? Testing Center are coordinated by the instructor, student, Individual student results are matched with occupations and Disability Services on an individual basis. and labor market research to assist the student in Assistive technology services are available on each determining a career path that is right for them. Career campus for students with disabilities referred by Awareness is offered online continuously. To enroll, Disability Services. please contact the LiNK. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate unless special permission is obtained. Special accommodations can be made for students with disabilities.

4 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY percent of the class meetings program status after a period of The Mid-State Board, have occurred. The effective date three consecutive semesters of administration, faculty, and staff is the date the student initiates nonattendance. The student may believe that academic honesty the class drop in writing. Grades reapply at any time. Students and integrity are fundamental to and refunds are calculated based reapplying to the same program the mission of higher education. on the effective date of the class may need to take additional All students are expected to drop. coursework due to curriculum maintain and promote the highest • An equivalent section is defined changes. Special circumstances standards of personal honesty as a course offered for the same may apply. and professional integrity. These credit value, is subject to the standards apply to all examinations, same dollar amount of student Program Change/Limitation on assigned work, and projects. fees, and is at substantially the same point in the course Number of Active Programs Therefore, a student who is found Students may elect to change the curriculum at the time of the to have been dishonest, fraudulent, program in which they are currently drop/add. Section changes done or deceptive in the completion of admitted. To do so they must after the first week of a course work, is willing to help others to be meet with an academic advisor must be approved by a dean or so, or is found to have plagiarized to complete a Program Change associate dean and the instructor. (presented the work of others Form. The student must identify as his or her own) is subject to • One hundred percent of tuition programs they want to remain active disciplinary action up to and and fees must be paid. If the in and programs they are no longer including suspension. reduction in tuition/fees for the interested in. dropped course exceeds the admissions and fees for the added class, the Program changes can be submitted student is issued a refund. If at any time during a semester, but enrollment the added course exceeds the they are only processed for the next tuition/fees of the dropped class, available term. ACADEMIC PROGRESS the student is required to pay POLICY the additional amount owed at AGE REQUIREMENT FOR Academic progress standards are in the time of registration. If the ENROLLMENT place to help students stay on track student is enrolled in a payment Mid-State complies with all and get back on track to reach plan or is receiving financial education statutes and policies their goals. This policy applies to aid, adjustments are made regulated and promulgated by the all associate degree and technical accordingly. Department of Public Instruction. diploma program students. The • Students who do not attend Programs may possess age criteria policy can be found at https:// the first class period without for admission based on licensing/ www.mstc.edu/about-us/policies/ notifying the instructor or certification requirements. All academic-progress. academic dean of their reason students who seek to enroll at for non-attendance may be Mid-State are subject to the ADDING/DROPPING dropped from the class without course prerequisites and program COURSES prior notification. The vacancy admission requirements as outlined created by their drop may be in the program information guides. • Classes may be added through filled by other students seeking the first week of class meetings. to enroll in the class. Under Age 18 (Exceptions include summer Questions regarding under-age-18 and winterim sessions.) Classes attendance or home-schooled added after the first week require ADMISSION TO THE students should be directed to the instructor/dean approval. COLLEGE Student Services & Information • To drop a class, students must Mid-State maintains an open-door Center at any Mid-State location. contact their academic advisor admissions policy in alignment with and state in writing that they statutory requirements, Wisconsin • Public and private high school want to drop the course: Technical College System policies, students age 18 and older may https://www.mstc.edu/student- and licensing and accrediting attend Mid-State courses and resources/academic-advising. organizations. The College’s programs at any time during the day if they have met the • Classes dropped before 10 complete admissions policy can be applicable prerequisite or percent of the class meetings found at https://www.mstc.edu/ program admission requirements. have occurred will not appear on about-us/policies/admissions. Attendance during the school the student’s transcript. Re-Admission to Mid-State day for students enrolled in • A grade of “W” (withdrawal) is The College will inactivate public/private schools must be issued if the class is dropped a student’s enrollment and done with the written permission after 10 percent but before 90 mstc.edu / 888.575.6782 5 student handbook

of the school principal and the Home-School Attendance • 10 – Associate degree level parent/legal guardian. Mid-State complies with all (e.g., 10809198) • Public and private high school education statutes and policies as Exception: catalog numbers with students ages 16–18 may attend regulated and promulgated by the the 3rd and 4th digit equal to 83 undergraduate day classes Department of Public Instruction. are developmental courses (e.g., with written consent from their Students under 18 years of age must 10835103) parent/guardian and high school also follow the age requirement • 30, 31, 32 – Technical diploma principal. Financial aid cannot be guidelines noted above. level (e.g., 30543300, 31509309, awarded to high school students • Home-schooled students are not 32404307) who have not graduated from eligible for federal financial aid high school. until completion of their high CREDIT FOR PRIOR Under Age 16 school degree. LEARNING With parental consent, public Questions regarding home- Mid-State’s Credit for Prior Learning or private high school students schooled students should be Policy provides an opportunity for under the age of 16 may attend directed to admissions at any Mid- students to receive credit for their postsecondary courses for State location. knowledge and skills gained from which they meet prerequisites. experience other than through Students under 16 years of age ATTENDANCE course offerings at Mid-State in are not allowed to enroll in certain Class attendance is considered order to accelerate the completion courses due to safety, certification, essential to the learning process. of their degree, diploma, or licensing, or policy requirements. Therefore, regular, punctual certificate. Credit for Prior Learning Hazardous areas include use of attendance is expected of all credits may include transfer of hoisting apparatus, logging, motor students. Students are responsible credits from regionally accredited, vehicle drivers and outside helpers, for discussing absences with their postsecondary institutions; credit usage of firearms, manufacturing instructors and, when permitted by by standardized examination; or processing, and classes involving instructors, responsible for making military occupational experiences/ hands-on applications for skill up class work that is missed. Any training; or other life experience development in areas identified as student deciding that he or she no and articulated high school credit. hazardous in DWD 270.14 (3) longer wishes to attend class must Mid-State has agreements with Student Learner. Consult a officially drop the class. Students many area high schools to grant Mid-State academic advisor or failing to drop a class remain advanced standing for select high college outreach coordinator for responsible for class costs and are school courses. information on courses for which the issued a failing grade. student under 16 may be eligible to Students are required to complete enroll. The following conditions must Students are expected to attend a minimum of 25 percent of be met for students under the age of the first class period or notify the the technical studies (associate 16 to enroll at Mid-State: class instructor. Students who do degree programs) or occupational- • The individual has the written not attend the first class period or specific studies (technical diploma permission of his/her parent provide appropriate notification programs) at Mid-State. The or guardian. A signed and may be administratively dropped remaining 75 percent of coursework dated letter from the parent or from the class. may be completed with the various guardian needs to accompany types of credit for prior learning. the registration form. CLASS CANCELLATION Credit toward a credential will • The individual will not be On occasion a class will be be awarded only for courses attending during the hours of the canceled. Students will be that fulfill a published Mid-State normal school day established contacted by the College to graduation requirement or that are under Wisconsin Compulsory consider placement into another an acceptable degree elective at Attendance laws. class. Mid-State reserves the Mid-State. right to cancel classes due to low enrollment. Mid-State cannot Age 14 and Under Students must meet the In addition to the stated guarantee the refund of books competencies of the specific course requirements within the “Under purchased through a third-party for which they request credit for Age 16” section above, a parent for canceled classes. prior learning. All students seeking or guardian of students age 14 or any form of credit for prior learning under must also enroll in and attend COURSE NUMBERING will begin the process with the the class as a regular student. SYSTEM Student Services & Information Exceptions include youth summer The first two digits of the course Center. Student Services will then camps and other courses specifically number identify the degree level of refer the request to the Student for youth. the coursework. Services assistant. After the

6 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

evaluation is completed, the student For specific scores related to Transcripts must include the will be notified in writing regarding Mid-State courses, go to https:// credits earned as well as an the result of the evaluation. If www.mstc.edu/admissions/credit-for- official description of the credits are granted, they will be prior-learning. courses(s) for which the credit is entered on the student’s permanent requested. transcript record. An appeal of the Credit for Life Experience (EX) Students initiate the process • The grade from the transferred final decision may be made through of applying for credit for life course will not show on the Mid- the Academic Appeals process. experience (military, occupational, State transcript. Courses that do Credit for Prior Learning or other life experience) with not meet program requirements Definitions the Credit for Prior Learning may be accepted by Mid-State for elective credit. Articulated Credit–Advanced coordinator. Students are then placement for courses taken in referred to the dean/associate • For credits earned at nationally high school (AC) dean for the evaluation of accredited institutions, please Through a cooperative program prior learning. Students must see guidelines for credit for life between area high schools and Mid- demonstrate proficiency in the experience. State, qualified students can receive course competencies by methods credit at Mid-State for selected high of evaluation that will be identified CREDIT HOURS school courses. Students must have by the dean/associate dean. A prior Classroom instruction includes completed specific requirements learning assessment fee is required. specifically planned learning in high school and have obtained a This fee is due from the student experiences based on identified 3.0 out of a 4.0 grade point average prior to determining the award objectives, direct instructor (GPA) in the articulated coursework of credit and is due regardless of involvement, and instructional to receive technical college credit. whether credit is awarded. For delivery through physical or For more information, contact the additional information about credit electronic learning environments. Mid-State Credit for Prior Learning for prior learning and credit for Instructor-to-student contact coordinator. life experience, go to https://www. including presentations, labs, mstc.edu/admissions/credit-for- demonstrations, and discussion Credit by Standardized prior-learning. is the equivalent of eighteen Examination (CE) Transfer of Credits from Regionally 50-minute periods (or 900 minutes) Mid-State staff will review test of instruction for each credit hour. results from the College-Level Accredited, Postsecondary Institutions (TR) Student outside effort is two hours Examination Program (CLEP), for each period of instruction, (or subject examinations, Advanced • Credit for courses may be 1,800 minutes) for each credit hour. Placement (AP) exams, and other accepted from regionally third-party administrators for accredited institutions of higher The unique environment in online/ possible credit toward completion education, provided the student hybrid classes combines the of a degree, diploma, or certificate. has received a letter grade of instructor-to-student contact with Credit toward a credential will “C” (2.0 on a 4.0 scale) recorded the outside effort, so for each credit be awarded only for courses on an official transcript and the hour of a class, you can expect to that fulfill a published Mid-State course credit and content are spend three hours of learning per graduation requirement or that are similar to the course content at week* in the online environment. an acceptable degree elective at Mid-State. 1 Credit = approximately Mid-State. College staff will use the • Students who plan to take 3 hours per week* guidelines published by the testing courses at another institution 2 Credits = approximately agencies to identify appropriate and transfer them to Mid-State 6 hours per week* test scores for credit recognition. toward program requirements 3 Credits = approximately Students must provide Mid-State are strongly encouraged to meet 9 hours per week* with an official, sealed transcript with their academic advisor to of test results from the testing review how the coursework from *These numbers are based on a agency for a review to occur. Credit the other college/university normal semester. Accelerated and awarded for successful performance would be applied to their Mid- summer courses will be adjusted will appear on a Mid-State State program. accordingly. transcript as “CE” for “Credit by • The student must provide an Examination.” This credit will not be official transcript in a sealed DISMISSAL/SUSPENSION part of a student’s GPA calculation. envelope or request that the If there is reasonable cause to The appropriate academic dean is credit-awarding school send believe a student has pursued responsible for the final decision on it electronically to the Credit a course of conduct requiring the recognition of credit. for Prior Learning coordinator. suspension or dismissal, the student may be suspended or dismissed

mstc.edu / 888.575.6782 7 student handbook

by the class instructor, dean of and state statutes. Fees may GRADING student support, campus dean, or vary annually and are subject to Grade Point Average school dean. The student will be change. Payment of fees is required Grade point averages (GPAs) informed of the specific charges to complete the admission and are figured on a 4.0 scale. When in writing without unreasonable registration process. Refer to calculating the GPA, the sum of delay. A student may be withdrawn https://www.mstc.edu/tuition/ all points awarded is divided by from a class or a program under tuition-and-fees for more the total credits attempted. Grade the following circumstances: information. point averages are calculated on disciplinary reasons, code of • Tuition: Per credit is subject to a cumulative basis as well as for conduct violation, past-due financial change annually and is charged the individual semester. Upon obligations, and failure or refusal to for all associate, technical, and graduation from an associate obtain professional help and/or to apprenticeship credits. Visit degree program or technical accept professional advice. https://www.mstc.edu/tuition/ diploma program, the program- tuition-and-fees for more specific GPA is indicated on the ELECTIVES information on tuition and fees. student’s official transcript. The Program electives may be fulfilled • Activity fee: Six percent per letter grading scale used at Mid- by successfully completing a credit. Charged each semester State is as follows: Mid-State associate degree- to help cover student activities, Grade GPA level course or through various such as student government, and A...... 4.00 credit for prior learning options. to help support various clubs and See Credit for Prior Learning for student activities. A-...... 3.67 additional information. Pre-college • Online fees: $10 per credit. B+...... 3.33 courses may not be used to satisfy Charged for classes delivered B...... 3.00 electives. Pre-college courses are online or in a hybrid model. those courses with an eight-digit B-...... 2.67 catalog number beginning with • Criminal History Record check: C+...... 2.33 For some programs, students 1083 (example: Intro to Writing C...... 2.00 10831103). need to pay for a criminal background check and provide C-...... 1.67 documentation of required health D+...... 1.33 ENROLLMENT STATUS work to Certified Background, a D...... 1.00 CLASSIFICATION private vendor. Fees may vary. • Full-time student: A student D-...... 0.67 • Material fee: Varies with each who is enrolled in 12 or more course and covers the cost of F...... 0.00 undergraduate semester credits. materials used by a student in No credits or grade points are • Part-time student: A student each course. awarded for the following grades: who is enrolled in less than 12 • Textbooks and supplies: undergraduate semester credits. AC...... Articulated Course Textbook costs vary by book. Advanced placement for courses taken in high school • Undeclared: A student who is not Visit the Mid-State Bookstore AU...... Audit Status admitted into a degree, diploma, website for up-to-date CE...... Credit by Examination or certificate program but is information about books and taking undergraduate classes. costs. Students are required to EX...... Life Experience Although a student is considered purchase their own textbooks IC...... Incomplete full-time by carrying 12 semester and supplies. In accordance IP...... In-Progress with the Higher Education credits, a semester course load of R...... Repeated Course 15–18 credits is typically needed Opportunity Act (HEOA), S...... Satisfactory (non-credit course) to complete a one-year program students have access to the cost within one year, or a two-year and, when applicable, the ISBN SP...... Satisfactory Progress program within two years. Students number for required textbooks TR...... Transfer Credit and supplemental materials. This may choose to extend the length U...... Unsatisfactory (non-credit course) of their program by taking a lighter information is available on the UP...... Unsatisfactory Progress course load. students’ online Class Schedule. • Student ID: The first student W...... Withdrawn from Class

FEES AND OTHER ID card is issued at no charge. Should a replacement ID card EXPENSES be required, there is a $5 fee Mid-State’s fee structure was for each additional card. IDs are established in accordance with the available in campus LiNKs. Wisconsin Technical College System

8 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

Audit Status (AU) Course catalog numbers for the (online classes). These students are Audit (AU) status means the student original and repeated courses must referred to as No Show students. attends class but does not receive match in order for a grade An attempt will be made to contact a grade for the class. Only during replacement to occur (exceptions: No Show students to determine the first 10 academic days for 16- some Microsoft Office and math if they will be attending classes. week courses (or within the first 10 courses). The student’s most recent Classes will be dropped with percent of the class) may a student course grade will appear on all tuition charges removed for change from credit-to-audit or transcripts. Previous enrollments in those students who will not be audit-to-credit status. Audit students the same course are listed with a attending or who were unable to are required to pay the same tuition grade of “R,” indicating repeat of be contacted. Students who have and fees as credit students and a course. received financial aid and failed to permanent record is maintained. attend classes have not established Students are required to process Withdrawal (W) eligibility to receive financial aid. The “W” grade will be applied to any change through the Student Therefore, No Show students must a dropped class according to the Services & Information Center. Audit repay in full any funds received. percent of class contact hours status is dependent upon instructor Besides complying with federal having met at the time the class is approval. Classes taken for audit financial aid regulation, the No Show dropped, as follows: are not applied toward enrollment Policy also helps prevent students status, graduation, and/or financial • 0–10 percent — No record of from accruing unwanted balances aid eligibility. the class will appear on the and possible collection activity as transcript. well as receiving final grades of “F” Incomplete (IC) on their permanent records. An incomplete grade may be • 11–89 percent — “W” grade awarded when a student is appears on transcript. SERVICE MEMBER PRIORITY unable to complete a course due • 90–100 percent — Grade of “F” REGISTRATION to extenuating circumstances. appears on transcript. Wisconsin Act AB201 Incomplete grades must be made See https://www.mstc.edu/ Priority registration allows eligible up before the end of the eighth registration-and-records. service members to register for week following the course end Mid-State classes one day ahead of date for 16-week courses. For less the official open registration date than 16-week courses, an IC must HOLD for any given semester. Eligible be made up within 50 percent of A hold is placed on a student’s service members are those who the course length. Failure to do account for any amount of tuition, have served, are serving, or are so will convert the IC grade to “F.” fees, library fines, bookstore on active duty under honorable Students are not allowed to register charges, financial aid repayment, or conditions in the US Armed Forces. for advance sequential courses any other outstanding balance due Service members do not need to be until incompletes are made up in Mid-State until such charges have using veteran benefits in order to preceding prerequisite. been satisfied. This status prevents the student from registering for be eligible for priority registration. In-Progress (IP) classes and prevents the release of, Priority registration is extended An in-progress grade is awarded and online access to, transcripts/ to service members only and not in cases where the end-date of the grades and diplomas/degrees. their spouses or dependents. To course follows the official end-date learn more about receiving service member priority registration, of the semester in which it was MAXIMUM CREDITS PER offered (e.g., independent study, visit https://www.mstc.edu/ flexible online learning courses). If the TERM registration-and-records/service- student fails to complete the class, Students may register for a member-priority-registration or call the IP grade is converted to “F.” maximum of 22 credits per term 888.575.6782. without permission from their Repeated Course (R) academic advisor. If students wish STUDENTS CALLED TO Students may retake a course to to register for more than 22 credits improve a grade. The most recent per term, they should contact their ACTIVE MILITARY grade a student has earned in a academic advisor. Students who are ordered or course is the grade that is used to inducted into active service in the calculate a student’s semester and Armed Forces of the United States, NO-SHOW POLICY or requested to work for the federal cumulative grade point averages. The No-Show Policy is instituted government during a national Students must request a grade during the first week of classes emergency, or a limited national replacement through the Office of each semester. Faculty identify emergency, shall be afforded one of the Registrar for the original grade students who are appearing on the options below: and a recalculation of their GPA. their class rosters but not attending (in-person classes) or participating in an academically related activity mstc.edu / 888.575.6782 9 student handbook

• The student may withdraw from if the application for refund life experience credit, military or college receiving a 100 percent is made after 10 percent but occupational experience credit, refund of tuition and fees upon before more than 20 percent or other credit for prior learning presentation of a document of the course’s potential class awarded may submit a formal demonstrating a call to active meetings of instruction have written appeal to the dean of the duty to the registrar. The refund been completed. area where the decision was issued. will not include books. No grades • No refund is to be made if the The written request must be made will be assigned to the classes. application for refund is made no later than 10 school days after Students choosing this option after 20 percent of the course’s receiving the decision and should may be readmitted to Mid-State potential class meetings of contain rationale for reconsideration at the start of the next term and instruction have been completed. of the decision. A meeting with will be placed in the first spot of the school dean and student will any programs with waiting lists. be held within five school days of WITHDRAWAL FROM receipt of the request. • The student may receive a grade COLLEGE of IC (Incomplete) which will Students wishing to withdraw from If the student and the division dean allow the student to complete the College must contact their are unable to reach an agreement, the coursework with instructional academic advisor to discuss all the student may appeal in writing support upon return from active implications (financial, personal, to the vice president of Academics military duty. There is no refund grading) of their decision. The within five school days after with this option. effective date of the withdrawal meeting with the dean. The student must contact the from college is determined by the An Ad Hoc Appeals Committee Financial Aid Office for advisement date that the student contacts convened by the vice president regarding the handling of financial their academic advisor. Grades and of Academics will meet with the aid processing and awards. refunds are calculated based on student. The vice president of the effective date of withdrawal Academics will inform the student from college. TUITION REFUND POLICY in writing of the decision of the Ad Refunds are issued per the official Hoc Appeals Committee within five refund schedule available at any appeals school days of the meeting. The Student Services & Information decision of the Ad Hoc Appeals Center. Refund amounts are APPEALS PROCESS Committee is the final decision, and determined by the Wisconsin Mid-State seeks to ensure fair no further appeals are available. and just treatment of students. Technical College System (WTCS) Final Grade Refund Policy and federal financial Opportunities are available to appeal academic and non-academic If a student believes that the final aid regulations. Refunds will be grade in a course is inaccurate issued to the student unless a decisions. Before an academic appeal is filed, the student is or unjustified, an appointment documented third-party sponsorship should be made with the instructor or contract exists. In such cases required to contact the instructor or other staff member directly to present the appeal in writing the refund will be returned to the and discuss the reason(s) for the sponsor or contracting party. involved with the decision to clarify the issue(s). Every effort to resolve appeal. Every effort to resolve the the issue(s) should be made at this issue should be made at this level. The refund policy can be found at The final grade appeal process https://www.mstc.edu/registration- level. Opportunities for appeal are detailed in the following policies must occur within 30 days of the and-records/payment-and-refund- issuance of the grade. policies. and procedures. • 100 percent of student fees shall Misconduct If the student and instructor are not be refunded if a student applies Students who wish to appeal a able to reach an agreement, the for a refund before the first decision pertaining to sanctions student may request in writing, no class meeting that the student is for classroom misconduct later than five school days after the scheduled to attend. (e.g., dismissal, suspension) meeting with the instructor, that the • 80 percent of all applicable may use the appeal process school dean arrange a meeting. The student fees are to be refunded outlined in the Student Code school dean, the instructor, and the if application for refund is made of Conduct. This process can student will meet within five school before or at the time 10 percent be found at https://www.mstc. days of this request to attempt of the course’s potential class edu/sites/default/files/2019-01/ to resolve the issue. The student meetings of instruction have StudentCodeofConduct_2.pdf. will receive written notice of the been completed. decision within five school days of Credit for Prior Learning Appeal the meeting. • 60 percent of all applicable Students not satisfied with the student fees are to be refunded decision regarding transfer credit,

10 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

If the issue is still unresolved, the student account appeal is filed, the submit the incident report to the student may appeal in writing to the student should seek assistance from dean of Student Support or campus vice president of Academics within the Student Services & Information dean and forward a copy to his/her five school days of receipt of the Center regarding charges and dean/supervisor. decision. The written appeal should payments on their account. Students accused of conduct describe in detail the events leading The student account appeals violations are entitled to the up to the appeal. process must be initiated within 90 following protections: An Ad Hoc Appeals Committee days of the charge being posted • To be informed of the charge and consisting of the vice president of to the student’s account or within relevant evidence. Academics, an academic dean, and 90 days of the official semester • To respond to the charge. a faculty member will meet with start date, whichever is later. To file the student to attempt to resolve an appeal, the Student Account • To request that the dean of the issue. The vice president of Appeal Form (https://www.mstc. Student Support or campus dean Academics will inform the student edu/sites/default/files/2019-04/ resolve the case in an informal in writing of the decision within ten StudentAccountAppeals.pdf) must disciplinary meeting. school days of the meeting. The be completed by the student with • To be assured confidentiality decision of the Ad Hoc Appeals all supporting documentation in accordance with the federal Committee is the final decision, and attached and submitted: Family Education Rights and no further appeals are available. • In person Privacy Act. Financial Aid Appeal Any Mid-State Student Services The review process outlined in the If a student believes a financial & Information Center Student Code of Conduct will be aid action is inaccurate, he or • Mail followed. Once completed, the she may file a written appeal to Office of the Registrar outcome will be communicated in the Financial Aid manager. The Mid-State Technical College writing to both parties involved appeal should include detailed 500 32nd Street North within five school days. Any information on the inaccuracy or Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 disciplinary action will take effect extenuating circumstances along • Fax on the date of notification. with supporting documentation. 715.422.5561 Attention: Student Records For specific information on If a student and the Financial Aid the appeal process, please manager are unable to reach an The appeal will be reviewed by an consult the Student Code of agreement, the student may appeal Ad Hoc Student Account Appeals Conduct at https://www.mstc. in writing within five school days of Committee. Appeals are reviewed edu/sites/default/files/2019-01/ receiving notification to the dean biweekly. The student will receive StudentCodeofConduct_2.pdf. of Student Support. The dean of written notification within two Student Support will meet with weeks following the appeals Complaint Procedure-Mid-State the student and the Financial Aid meeting. Technical College (Mid-State) manager within five school days of Mid-State is committed to Student Conduct Appeal receipt of the appeal. The student providing a positive environment (non-academic) will be notified in writing of the and educational experience for Whenever possible, alleged decision within five school days of students. This environment includes misconduct issues should be the meeting. incorporating feedback from resolved informally through a students, employees, partners, and Graduation Requirements conference with the complainant the public into College operations. Students who wish to appeal a and the alleged student. The parties Mid-State uses feedback to make decision pertaining to graduation may ask a neutral party (e.g., continuous improvements. requirements may use the appeal campus dean, dean of Student Please use the following form to process outlined in the Credit for Support) to act as a mediator. submit a compliment, suggestion Prior Learning Appeal section. In the event that alleged or concern: https://www.mstc. misconduct cannot be resolved edu/form/student-complaint- Student Account Appeal informally, faculty/staff/ form. Completing this form with Students are responsible for administrator/student may initiate a concern will initiate the first charges and payments to action by filing an incident report. steps of the complaint procedures. their account. In extenuating Any faculty/staff/administrator/ Should you have a concern or circumstances a student may be student of the College community problem, please discuss it with eligible for a refund or a reduction may charge a student with alleged your instructor, counselor, advisor, in outstanding charges outside of acts of misconduct. The faculty/ or campus dean to attempt to the general tuition refund policy staff/administrator/student will resolve the matter. If this action determined by the Wisconsin Technical College System. Before a

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does not resolve the problem, a participates in the State accommodations should be requested formal complaint can be presented. Authorization Reciprocity a semester before they are to be put Typically, a formal complaint is a Agreement (SARA). As a member in place. However, Disability Services written allegation of an inequity. of SARA, any current or former will assist students at any time to An inequity may involve either the student of a distance education provide services in a timely manner. academic or the non-academic program offered by Mid-State may Students may use accommodations function of Mid-State. Students file a complaint with Wisconsin’s starting the date they are approved. who believe that they have cause Distance Learning Authorization Coursework and exams that have to make a formal complaint should Board (DLAB) for Mid-State occurred prior to approval are send a letter to: distance education activity considered completed and are not conducted across state lines under eligible for accommodations. Mid- Dean of Student Support specific and limited circumstances. State does not provide attendant care Mid-State Technical College For more information on the services. Students in need of personal 500 32nd Street North types of complaints handled by care are expected to make their own Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 DLAB, steps to be taken before arrangements for these needs. filing a complaint with DLAB, and Complaint Procedure-Wisconsin To be eligible for accommodations, the process to file a complaint Technical College System (WTCS) students are required to provide Students who attend a college with DLAB, see DLAB’s student documentation of a disability that that is part of the WTCS can file complaint process at http://www. substantially limits one or more complaints at the state level in heab.state.wi.us/dlab/students.html. major life activities, show a history of three categories defined by US such impairment, or be regarded as Department of Education: disability services having such an impairment. Reports • Complaints that allege violations from medical doctors, licensed It is the policy of Mid-State to of Wisconsin consumer psychologists, the Division of comply with Section 504 of the protection laws, including, but Vocational Rehabilitation, a licensed Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the not limited to, false advertising social service agency, or high school Americans with Disabilities Act exceptional education needs (EEN) • Complaints that allege violations (ADA). Individuals with disabilities staff are examples of acceptable of Wisconsin laws related to are provided with reasonable and documentation. When requested, the licensure of postsecondary effective accommodations, when Mid-State Disability Services works institutions requested, to afford equal access in collaboration with community • Complaints relating to the quality to educational opportunity at Mid- agencies in coordinating services for of education or other state or State. Services are provided to students with disabilities. accreditation requirements prospective and enrolled students who are otherwise qualified with A student who reasonably believes Students with questions about or without accommodations for that a violation has occurred in one availability of disability support admission and participation in or more of these categories may services or establishing eligibility for postsecondary education. file a written complaint. Complaints services should contact Disability Services at the campus the student must be signed by the student and To access reasonable and effective attends. Mid-State does not provide submitted on the official Student accommodations, students can self- testing to diagnose disability but Complaint Form. Complaints must identify their disability and directly can refer students to appropriate be filed within one year from the contact Disability Services for agencies for testing. If a student date of the alleged violation or the assistance. Personnel are available suspects they have a disability, last recorded date of attendance, on each campus and have offices staff will discuss procedures for whichever is later. The WTCS in Student Services. In addition to getting evaluated. Provisional will review complaints only after self-identification, an instructor can accommodations may be provided students attempt to resolve the make referrals to Disability Services pending evaluation results. matter through applicable college after a student has begun classes. appeals or complaint processes. Reasonable and effective Disability Services staff, the student, accommodations are individually The Student Complaint Form can and individual instructors together determined and based on be found at https://wtcsystem. determine what services and disability. Disability Services edu/about-us/governance/system- accommodations are needed and how works with students, faculty, office/educational-services/student- they are to be provided. Although and staff to provide adjustments complaints. students can self-refer or be referred and modifications within our at any time, adequate and reasonable educational environment that Complaint Procedure-Distance time is required to develop and provide students with disabilities Education Conducted Across provide appropriate accommodations, an equal access to education and State Lines which are provided at no cost Mid-State Technical College to the student. When possible,

12 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

the ability to participate. They are Types of Financial Aid Available at addition, effective July 1, 2013, not designed to give students with Mid-State the Department of Education is disabilities an unfair advantage over monitoring all new borrowers or other students. Accommodations Pell Grant first-time borrowers’ loan periods. Federal grant based on financial provide students with disabilities an If the borrower exceeds 150 need. Grants are a form of “gift aid” equal opportunity to demonstrate percent of the published length that are not paid back. Eligibility their abilities. of their academic program, the is based on a student’s Expected borrower becomes ineligible Please see Family Contribution (obtained Appeal Procedure: to receive additional Direct the Student Discrimination Policy. by completing the FAFSA) and Subsidized Loans and becomes A copy of this policy is available the student’s enrollment status. A responsible for accruing interest online at https://www.mstc. student can receive Pell Grants up during all periods as of the date edu/about-us/policies/student- to a 12-semester lifetime limit (or its the borrower exceeds the 150 discrimination. equivalent). percent limit. Wisconsin Grant • Federal Direct Unsubsidized financial aid State grant based on multiple Stafford Loan: This loan assists criteria including state of Wisconsin Financial aid is designed to students with their education residency, a student’s Expected supplement the resources of the if they are ineligible for a Family Contribution, availability student and/or family to help Subsidized Stafford Loan or of state funding, and the date of students achieve their educational in addition to the Subsidized FAFSA completion. Eligibility is and career goals. Every student in Loan. Conditions are the same limited to 10 semesters. an approved program is eligible with one exception: interest starts accruing immediately. to apply for financial aid. Student Supplemental Education The student has the choice to financial aid is based on financial Opportunity Grant (SEOG) need. This need is established by Federal need-based grant awarded pay the interest monthly while an analysis of the Free Application to students with the highest in college or it can be deferred for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). financial need. Funds are limited and added to the principal of the Students complete the FAFSA and awarded based on a random loan. A student must complete every year to determine eligibility. selection of students who have the FAFSA and be considered for completed a FAFSA file, are all types of financial aid prior to Financial aid is offered to students enrolled, are eligible for a Pell receiving a Federal Unsubsidized only after they have been accepted Grant, and have a zero Expected Loan. for admission into an eligible Family Contribution. Students are • All loans will have a 30-day delay program of study. Department randomly awarded until funds are in disbursement. Mid-State will of Education regulations require depleted. disburse all loans 30 days after courses funded by financial aid be the first day of the semester. This required toward graduation for that College Work-Study (CWS) practice ensures that students program of study. Part-time jobs provided on campus won’t have a loan to repay if they with faculty and staff or off campus don’t begin classes or if they Application for Financial Aid at community service sites, such as withdraw during the first 30 days To apply for federal aid, you must public libraries, Boys & Girls Clubs, of classes. complete a Free Application for and Head Start. Worksites are also Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). established through elementary • Double-Disbursement of You can apply online at https:// and secondary schools for tutors Loans: All student loans must studentaid.ed.gov/sa/fafsa. Paper in math and reading as part of the be paid to the student in two FAFSA applications are available America Reads program. Students disbursements, one each by calling 1.800.4FED.AID or by are paid biweekly. Job postings and semester. If a student is only printing a PDF copy at https:// information on how to apply can enrolled for one semester, or studentaid.ed.gov/sa/fafsa/filling- be found at https://www.mstc.edu/ has accepted a loan for one out#options. Students must have student-life/work-study. term, loans must be double a high school diploma, HSED, disbursed—half on the standard GED, or home school completion Student Loans disbursement date and half at to be eligible for federal and state • Federal Direct Subsidized Stafford the mid-point of the semester. financial aid. Loan: A student may borrow up Students must be enrolled to $3,500 for the first year and and attending at least six $4,500 for the second year if credits at the time of each loan working towards an associate disbursement. If tuition is still degree, depending on need. owed, it will be deferred until The federal government pays loan funds are disbursed as long the interest while the student as the student completes the is enrolled at least half-time. In Master Promissory Note and mstc.edu / 888.575.6782 13 student handbook

Entrance Loan Counseling and is must progress toward their degree/ Documentation may be required. enrolled and attending classes. diploma by meeting the following Students will also be required to • Private-Alternative Loans standards: meet with their academic advisor for Education: All loans for • GPA: Cumulative 2.0 or higher. to develop an Academic Success Plan. This plan must ensure that education must be calculated • Pace: Must complete 67 percent the student will be able to meet as a resource towards meeting of all classes attempted. the standards within a specific time the student cost of attendance Attempted credits must include frame. Students must follow this according to federal regulations. withdrawals (W), incompletes plan and successfully complete Students are encouraged to (IC), in-progress (IP), repetitions all courses to remain eligible for apply for federal and state (R), and transfer credits (TR). financial aid. grants and the federal loan Due to the cumulative nature program prior to considering of these requirements, it is very Financial Aid Emergency Financial private-alternative loans due important that students take Situations to the repayment provisions adding and dropping of classes If the student has an emergency and interest rates offered. under careful consideration. situation that could jeopardize Private education loans must • Maximum Timeframe: his or her education at Mid-State, be processed directly with Successfully complete the the student should contact the a lender of choice. The Mid- program before attempting more Financial Aid Office to discuss State Financial Aid Lenders than 150 percent of the credits resource options. administrative policy outlines the required for graduation. Example: financial aid lender policy and Financial Aid Enrollment Changes A program that requires 68 code of conduct on lenders. This The Financial Aid Office will verify credits for graduation. 68 credits is available at https://www.mstc. enrollment as of the financial aid x 150% = 102. Students are not edu/sites/default/files/2019-01/ recalculation date, which is the eligible for aid at the point when FinancialAidLenders.pdf. 14th calendar day of the semester. they cannot complete their Eligibility must be determined on • PLUS Loans (Parent Loan for program within 102 credits. the student’s enrollment level (full- Undergraduate Students): A loan time, half-time, three-quarter-time, parents of “dependent” students Financial Aid Warning/Suspension or less-than-half-time); therefore, may apply for to assist their son If students do not meet the above changes in enrollment may affect or daughter with educational standards, they will be placed how much money the student expenses. Detailed information on financial aid warning for one receives. is available at https://www.mstc. semester to allow them to get edu/paying-for-college/financial- back in good standing. During that If a class is refunded at 100 percent, aid/loans. warning semester, students are financial aid must be recalculated,

eligible for financial aid but must and a repayment may be required. Scholarships meet the standards at the end of If the Financial Aid Office is notified Various scholarship opportunities the term or face suspension. If there that the student does not attend through the Mid-State Foundation are extenuating circumstances, classes they registered for (no- are available online at https:// students have the right to submit a show), the student is not eligible to www.mstc.edu/scholarships as Petition for Reinstatement for one receive financial aid and is required they become available throughout semester. Students are strongly to repay 100 percent of any the year. For further information, encouraged to utilize the services financial aid received. It is important contact the Foundation & provided by Mid-State, such as the to notify the Financial Aid Office Alumni Office at 715.422.5322 or LiNK, tutoring, and counseling. any time a student decides to [email protected]. Appeal Process change enrollment to determine For information on other financial Students who believe their what impact that may have on resources, visit https://www.mstc. circumstances merit reconsideration financial aid eligibility. edu/paying-for-college. may appeal their suspension Financial Aid Enrollment Financial Aid Continued Assistance by submitting a Petition for Definitions Reinstatement of Financial Aid. Federal regulations require that • Full-time = 12 or more This form can be found at https:// schools monitor the academic undergraduate credits progress of students. It includes all www.mstc.edu/paying-for-college/ • Three-quarter-time = 9 to 11 periods of enrollment, even if the financial-aid/financial-aid-forms. A undergraduate credits student did not receive financial aid. petition cannot be based on need Students can receive aid only for for aid or lack of knowledge of the • Half-time = 6 to 8 undergraduate classes that are required for their warning status. An appeal must be credits program. based on an unusual situation or • Less-than-half-time = 5 or less condition (e.g., illness, injury, death undergraduate credits To continue to receive financial of a family member) that prevented assistance for each term, a student the student from being successful.

14 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

Disbursement of Aid the end of the term, return of Title Shared Programs/Consortium To receive disbursements of IV repayment calculations must be Agreements financial aid after the start of applied. As a result, students may Shared programs are technical classes, federal regulations require owe a repayment of a portion of college programs that may be that students must be attending their financial aid. The College will delivered at multiple locations classes and making satisfactory consider only amounts received based on an agreement between academic progress. Financial during the semester or payment districts. The “home” college aid will be applied to student period. Students are encouraged to disburses the aid to the student; accounts after the recalculation discuss withdrawal with Financial therefore, Mid-State has no way to date of each semester. (Estimated Aid staff to determine how they will defer the student’s tuition until the disbursement dates are posted be impacted. Federal funds included aid is received. It is the student’s at https://www.mstc.edu/paying- in this policy are Direct Stafford responsibility to pay the visiting for-college/financial-aid/financial- Loan (unsubsidized and subsidized), college. Students must apply for aid-disbursement-dates.) Tuition PLUS Loans, Pell Grant, and SEOG. financial aid at the college granting can be deferred until financial aid Students are billed by Mid-State for the degree/diploma. The “home” is released. Financial aid will be any repayment that is due. college submits a list of students applied to outstanding tuition, fees, in the shared program that are Students are not able to receive and book charges. Any remaining attending Mid-State. We identify further financial aid at this or any funds will be refunded to the the number of credits the student is other institution until the repayment student by check or direct deposit. attending at Mid-State so their aid is made in full. Academic transcripts E-refunds can be set up on the can be based on the total credits will be held, and a student will student center under e-account at both colleges. At the end of the not be able to register for the management. For information term, Mid-State will verify grades next semester. It is important that on book charges, go to https:// received at the “home” college for repayment is made at the Student www.mstc.edu/sites/default/ satisfactory progress standards. Services & Information Center as files/2019-04/BookChargeProcess. promptly as possible. A student Consortium agreements are used pdf. is not eligible to receive federal for students who are enrolled at Financial Aid Reevaluation Income financial aid at any college until more than one college and are not If a student or family member has a repayment is made. in a shared program. It may also be significant change in income caused used for students who are accepted by unemployment, death, divorce, Financial Aid Remedial Education in a program at one college but are Students enrolled in remedial separation, etc., he/she should not enrolled in any courses at that courses must be accepted into contact the Financial Aid Office to college. Students can legally only an academic program of study determine whether their eligibility get paid from one college for the in order to receive financial aid. may be reviewed. same semester. It is the student’s Undergraduate-level college prep responsibility to pay the secondary courses are eligible for financial aid Financial Aid Refunds & college. Contact the Financial Aid as prerequisites to core program Repayments Office for more information. Return of Federal Funds: Federal courses. A maximum of 30 credits law states that if a student receives in remedial education and college Summer Term Financial Aid federal financial aid and withdraws, prep is fundable by financial aid Financial aid eligibility for summer quits attending, or drops out of while enrolled at Mid-State. term will be based upon the all of his or her classes before FAFSA for the new award year. Students must meet all other completing at least 60 percent of Complete the 2020–2021 FAFSA to eligibility requirements for state the semester, the student will have determine summer 2020 eligibility. and federal student financial to return a portion of the federal aid Complete the 2021–2022 FAFSA to aid. Examples include program that was received. Withdrawal date determine summer 2021 eligibility. enrollment, need, satisfactory is defined as the date on which the Disbursements for summer term will academic progress, and citizenship. student officially notifies the school not be made until July, so students Remedial courses are calculated of withdrawal from the courses, need to make sure to budget for in the satisfactory progress the last date of class attendance personal expenses accordingly. requirements. or academically related activity, Financial Aid - Transferring or the midpoint of the semester Financial Aid Repeating Course Colleges Mid-Year if the student leaves without Any course in which a grade of “D” If a student plans to transfer to officially withdrawing. Students who or better grade was received may another college and wants to receive all “F” grades at the end have the repeated course count receive financial aid through that of the semester will be subject to toward financial aid eligibility once. college, the student must notify the review for return of federal funds. If courses are offered as modules and the student withdraws before

mstc.edu / 888.575.6782 15 student handbook

Mid-State Financial Aid Office so deduction from the total length of evidence or documentation) to funds can be canceled for the next the program. All students receiving receive further federal veterans term if necessary. Financial Aid staff veterans benefits must have benefits. Students may be asked can also discuss the steps a student transcripts and other documents to submit an educational plan needs to complete for transferring showing credit for previous training approved by his or her student financial aid eligibility. reviewed through Student Services success counselor as a condition of by the end of the first semester or the appeal. term. Failure to do so will result in VETERANS BENEFITS Students will not be certified for no further certification for veterans Financial assistance is available to federal veterans benefits for any benefits until those transcripts have qualified veterans, National Guard future enrollment period unless been provided. members, and reservists. Benefits the requirements for satisfactory are also available to widows and progress have been met or a Spouse/Dependent Benefits dependents of deceased or service- formal appeal has been approved. Qualifying spouses and children connected disabled veterans. In If the student fails to come off of eligible Wisconsin veterans addition, WI GI Bill and Veterans probation, the USDVA will be receive a waiver of 100 percent Tuition Reimbursement are available notified of suspension, which may of the program fees (tuition) for Wisconsin veterans. Further result in repayment to the Veterans and material fees at a Wisconsin information is available from the Administration. County Veterans Service Office or Technical College System college. the Mid-State Financial Aid Office. To be eligible, the spouse or child Withdrawal and Last Date of Forms and procedures are available of the eligible veteran must be a Attendance at https://www.mstc.edu/veterans/ Wisconsin resident. Spouses are If a student receiving veterans veterans-benefits. only eligible for a set time period following the death or disability (30 benefits officially withdraws from Service Member Priority percent or greater) of the veteran, a class or classes, he/she must Registration Wisconsin Act AB201 and children must be 18–26 years inform the Mid-State Veterans Priority registration allows eligible old. There are some limitations to Certification Office. If a student is service members to register for the total number of credits and receiving veterans benefits and fails Mid-State classes one day ahead of semesters covered. All veteran to officially withdraw or walks away the official open registration date eligibility determinations are made from a class or classes, the Mid- for any given semester. Eligible by the Wisconsin Department State Veterans Certification Office service members are those who of Veterans Affairs. For more is required to inform the USDVA have served, are serving, or are information, contact your local of the last date of attendance. on active duty under honorable County Veterans Service Officer. The Veterans Administration may conditions in the US Armed Forces. require repayment of benefits Service members do not need to be Satisfactory Progress for classes due to withdrawal or using veteran benefits in order to Students applying for federal nonattendance. be eligible for priority registration. veterans benefits must be accepted Summer School – Continuous Priority registration is extended in a VA-approved academic Payment to service members only and not program of study and progressing Veterans enrolling in summer school their spouses or dependents. To toward graduation. All courses courses should be aware that the learn more about receiving service taken must be related to that VA will consider start and end dates member priority registration, program of study and cannot be of each course to determine benefit visit https://www.mstc.edu/ certified for payment if not required calculation. Break or interval pay registration-and-records/service- for graduation. is no longer payable under any VA member-priority-registration or call All students receiving veterans education benefit program unless 888.575.6782. benefits must maintain a minimal under an executive order of the cumulative grade point average of President or due to an emergency, Credit for Previous Training 2.0. If students do not meet these such as a natural disaster or All students who are requesting standards, they will be placed on strike. This means that when your veterans’ benefits when enrolling probation for one term. At the semester ends (e.g., December 15), at Mid-State will be given credit end of that semester, students your housing allowance is paid for for previous training, where must meet satisfactory progress the first 15 days of December only appropriate. The total length of the standards or will be required to and begins again when your next training program will be reduced write a letter of appeal to the VA semester begins (e.g., January 10) proportionately. The student and Certifying Office demonstrating and is paid for the remaining days the United States Department of mitigating circumstances (defined of January. If you need to request Veterans Affairs (USDVA) will be by the VA as unanticipated and summer certification, be sure to advised in writing of the credit given unavoidable events beyond a notify your campus veterans/ to the student and the appropriate student’s control with supporting financial aid supervisor.

16 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

Wisconsin GI Bill Tuition ACTIVE SHOOTER closing information. Cancellation Remission Veterans Active shooter incidents are of day classes is generally aired by Under the Wisconsin GI Bill, tragic, unpredictable events with 6:00 a.m.; evening classes by 2:00 eligible Wisconsin veterans who devastating consequences. Ninety- p.m. Students are asked to use the entered active military duty as a eight percent of active shooter following radio stations as prima- Wisconsin resident receive 100 incidents have been carried out ry sources of information: WDLB percent remission of the program by a single attacker; attacks 1450 AM, WHTQ 96.7, WAXX 104.5, fees (tuition) and material fees at a may be completely random. WSPT 97.9, WIFC 95.5, WIZD 94.7, Wisconsin Technical College System Most incidents are over before WSAU 99.9, WYTE 106.5, WFHR college. The Wisconsin GI Bill sets emergency personnel arrive. If 1320 AM, WGLX 103.3, and WDKM no income limits, ending periods you see something suspicious, talk 106.1. Closures are also announced following military service during about it with someone. You must on television channels WSAW TV7 which the benefit must be used, or not be passive, but act quickly and (CBS) and WAOW TV9 (ABC). limits on the level of study. There decisively; use your best judgment. College/campus closings are are, however, some limitations to Follow the advice given below. posted on Mid-State’s website and the total number of credits and Facebook page. • Evacuate – Evacuate the facility semesters covered. If a veteran if it is safe to do so; leave behind is receiving Chapter 33 Post-911 your belongings, visualize your LOST AND FOUND benefits, waiver amounts may be escape route before beginning Lost and found items may be affected. Wisconsin GI Bill Funded to move, and do not use the claimed at the Student Services & students must maintain a minimum elevator. Call 911 from a safe Information Center at the appropri- cumulative GPA of 2.0 to remain location; do not assume someone ate Mid-State location. To claim an eligible. else has called 911. Provide item, a student will need to provide factual information and exact proper identification and, when general college location. appropriate, description of the item. Items unclaimed after one month of • Hide – If evacuating is not information being logged at lost and found will possible, hide in a secure area For more information, please refer be donated to a local charity. to the Student Planner available at (preferably a designated shelter the Student Services & Information location), lock the door, blockade Center at each location. the door with heavy furniture, graduation cover all windows, turn off all EARLY RELEASE FOR ACCIDENTS AND lights, silence any electronic devices, lie on the floor, and EMPLOYMENT EMERGENCIES remain silent. Student Early Release is a In the event that a student should • Take action – If neither procedure whereby a potential experience an injury on Mid-State evacuating the facility nor graduate of one of Mid-State’s property, it is important that the sheltering is possible, attempt programs may be permitted to injury be reported promptly to a to disrupt and/or incapacitate terminate his/her attendance at Mid-State supervisor. A First Report the active shooter by throwing Mid-State for employment, subject of Injury Form will be completed by objects; using physical, to the following conditions: the supervisor at this time. aggressive force; and yelling. • Early release will be granted There may be no other option. only if the employer requires EMERGENCY PROCEDURES the potential graduate to begin The College has created an • Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so. employment immediately. Emergency Reference Guide Students will be given early • Respond appropriately when law available to students and employees release only for full-time enforcement arrives on scene – to provide basic instructions on employment related to their Follow instructions, remain calm, how to respond to a variety of training received at Mid-State. emergency situations. Situations keep hands empty and visible addressed in the Emergency at all times, and avoid making • Early release, if granted, cannot Reference Guide include bloodborne sudden or alarming movements. exceed two weeks prior to the pathogen exposure, bomb threat, last day of the semester. Such chemical spill/hazardous material, time will not be counted as INCLEMENT WEATHER absences. For additional policy fire/explosion, severe weather/ In cases of the most severe weather information and procedures tornado, and suicide/violence conditions, Mid-State will close its for receiving the early release, threat. The Emergency Reference facilities. Students are alerted of please contact the dean of your Guide is located on the wall of each closings through Rave, the College’s school or the registrar. classroom. Please familiarize yourself automated messaging system. Lis- with the location of the Emergency ten to area radio stations for college Reference Guide in each classroom. mstc.edu / 888.575.6782 17 student handbook

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT 1. Applied and accepted into the after the close of the semester FOLLOW-UP program from which the student in which they have completed all In the six months following intends to graduate. graduation requirements. graduation from Mid-State, an 2. Satisfactorily complete all employment survey is mailed curriculum requirements based RETRAINING GUARANTEE to each graduate to complete on the catalog year admitted Mid-State guarantees up to six free and return to the College for the into program or later. Deans credits of additional instruction to graduate follow-up study. Phone may, upon request, apply credit graduates of programs of at least calls are placed to graduates for prior learning and/or course one year in length who do not who do not return the surveys substitutions towards program obtain or maintain employment in in an effort to obtain the most requirements. their program or related area within information possible. The graduate 3. Earn a program GPA of 2.0. six months after graduation. The success information can be found following two scenarios apply to the 4. Technical diploma students at https://www.mstc.edu/about-us/ retraining guarantee: must complete a minimum of grad-wage-and-job. 25 percent of their program’s 1. To be eligible, graduates must occupational-specific courses certify, in writing, to the vice GRADUATING WITH at Mid-State. Associate degree president of Academics: HONORS students must complete a • They have not secured Honor lists include students minimum of 25 percent of their employment in the occupational graduating from associate degree program’s technical studies field in which they received the and technical diploma programs courses at Mid-State. degree or diploma. who have earned high academic 5. Students enrolled in some • They have actively pursued levels as outlined below. Students programs may have specific employment in their occupational graduating with honors are graduation requirements. Please field. recognized with honor cords see the appropriate dean, • They have not refused based on program GPA through associate dean, or advisor for employment in their occupational the semester preceding the final additional information. field or in a related field. semester. Students should petition to • They have actively sought the Description: graduate by completing and assistance of the district Career • Graduation with Distinction submitting a Graduation Application Services office. Gold Cord 3.75–4.00 GPA Form available at any Mid-State - or - • Graduation with High Honors Student Services & Information 2. Within 90 days after their initial Silver Cord 3.50–3.74 GPA Center, or by submitting an employment, the graduate’s • Graduation with Honors application via MyMSTC student employer certifies to the vice Bronze Cord 3.25–3.49 GPA online services. Petitioning to president of Academics that the graduate will invoke an evaluation The registrar’s office determines graduate lacks entry-level job to determine graduation eligibility. program GPA for all Mid-State skills and specifies in writing graduates. A final program GPA will Commencement exercises are held the specific areas in which the be determined and noted on the in December and May. If you are graduate’s skills are deficient. official transcript once all grades scheduled to complete coursework Per Section 38.24 (4), Wisconsin for the final semester have been by the end of the summer session, Statute submitted. you may participate in the May The graduate is responsible for all commencement ceremony. If Honor cords are available at expenses other than tuition (e.g., your coursework goes beyond campus bookstores. textbooks, supplies, and incidental the official summer session, you fees). The courses must be within may participate in the December GRADUATION POLICY the same occupational program commencement ceremony. Mid-State is authorized by the that the graduate’s degree or Students with a substantiated Wisconsin Technical College diploma was received. The credits Code of Conduct violation are System to grant associate degrees, must be courses offered by Mid- not permitted to participate in technical diplomas, certificates, and State and be currently scheduled commencement. apprenticeships. The confer date for the general public. Once a is determined by the completion Students must fulfill all financial graduate accepts a position in their of all graduation requirements. To obligations to Mid-State prior to program or related area, they are no be eligible for a credential from receiving their certificate, degree, longer eligible for this guarantee. Mid-State, a student must fulfill the or diploma. Diplomas are mailed to following requirements: the student’s home address on file approximately six to eight weeks

18 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

TRANSCRIPT REQUESTS transaction with Mid-State as and student data forms may be Academic records are kept on “customers.” Customer information subject to Open Records Law. This permanent file by the registrar’s that must be safeguarded is “any means that while information is not office. To request an official record containing nonpublic actively shared, in some cases the transcript, please visit https://www. personal information about a College may be compelled by law mstc.edu/registration-and-records/ customer, whether in paper, to release directory information transcript-request. electronic, or other form.” It regarding students. The College includes financial information, collects student Social Security Unofficial transcripts are also academic and employment numbers to provide student available to students and graduates. information, and other private financial aid and to provide data There is no charge for unofficial paper and electronic records. to the State of Wisconsin for state copies of student transcripts. purposes. Mid-State is also required Sharing of Customer Information to share student information, In accordance with the Family Mid-State will only collect personal including Social Security numbers, Educational Rights and Privacy Act information which is knowingly with the State of Wisconsin and (FERPA), Mid-State does not fax and voluntarily provided by the United States Government transcripts. customers, such as sending emails; for purposes of receiving aid for completing forms; registering programs and funding for the for classes, events, or other privacy College or for the purposes of programs; responding to surveys; federal student aid. Sharing of this or ordering merchandise. If NOTICE OF FINANCIAL information is permitted under state personal information is provided PRIVACY RIGHTS and federal statute. Mid-State will to Mid-State, the College will use Mid-State is committed to ensuring also share directory information this information to respond to the privacy and accuracy of all regarding students with educational the customer’s needs. Mid-State confidential information. As part partners for purposes of promoting may also contact customers to of the College’s commitment to educational programs. maintaining the privacy of students, provide information about College Mid-State has developed this activities, programs, membership, Opt Out From Sharing of privacy statement. The statement and development opportunities Information has two purposes: and special events that may be Mid-State does, upon explicit of interest. Mid-State only shares request of users, share directory 1. To educate users about privacy information with other parties information with other parties to issues. when one or more of the following provide services or information to 2. To inform users about specific conditions apply: students. Consistent with FERPA, privacy policies and guidelines • Mid-State requested your the College does not release employed at Mid-State. Mid- consent to share the information. personal student information other State complies with the Family than public directory information • Mid-State needs to share Educational Rights and Privacy to other parties unless an explicit personal information to provide Act (FERPA), which prohibits written authorization is submitted the service or product requested the release of education records requesting the institution to do so. by the customer. other than public directory Students who wish to have their information, without student • Mid-State needs to send information removed from the permission. For additional details information to companies who campus directory should visit their on FERPA, visit https://www2. work on behalf of the College to local Student Services & Information ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ provide a service or product to Center or contact 888.575.6782. ferpa/index.html. Mid-State customers. Privacy Provisions complies with the Gramm- • Mid-State is responding to Mid-State is in compliance with Leach-Bliley Act (GLB) of 1999, subpoenas, court orders, or any FERPA. Directory information (e.g., which requires institutions of other legal process. higher education that disburse name, address, enrollment at the federal aid to maintain student • Mid-State finds it necessary to College, degree information), the (customer) privacy through protect and defend the legal list of which is published annually FERPA and to maintain rights and/or property of Mid- in the Student Handbook and on safeguards for protecting private State. the College website at https:// financial information of students Mid-State does not actively www.mstc.edu/about-us/policies/ (customers). share personal information about student-records-and-privacy, is students gathered through web considered public (unless a student For purposes of FERPA and GLB, has requested otherwise in writing). Mid-State considers students, servers or via forms. Because Mid- State is a public institution, some All non-directory information is employees, alumni, or any other restricted or confidential, what third party engaged in a financial information collected from MyMSTC

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GLB calls “non-public.” Under Changes to This Privacy Statement sexual harassment, and equal FERPA, restricted information (e.g., This document was last updated opportunity as well as student academic or financial records) October 2018. We will occasionally privacy information, campus is released outside the College update this privacy statement. security information, and crime only with the student’s written When we do, we will also revise the statistics for the previous three consent. Designated school officials, “last updated” date. years. This report is an excellent including faculty, key employees, tool to learn what is necessary and outside service vendors have PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES to protect yourself, assist your access to restricted, “non-public” (CONSENT OF) friends, and join us in efforts to information on a need-to-know make a difference in our campus Registration as a student and basis only. In compliance with GLB communities. attendance at or participation in and long-standing good practice, classes and other campus and To view the Student & Employee the College extends FERPA privacy Mid-State activities constitutes Right to Know Report online, go to protections to all customers of the an agreement by the student to https://www.mstc.edu/about-us/ College. The Office of the Registrar Mid-State’s use and distribution policies/right-to-know. will provide guidance in complying (both now and in the future) of with all FERPA privacy regulations. the student’s image or voice in Paper copies of the report Each department is responsible photographs, videotapes, electronic are provided upon request. for securing customer information reproductions, or audiotapes of Please contact the College at in accordance with all privacy such classes and other campus 888.575.6782. Individuals who guidelines. and Mid-State activities. Students are hearing impaired can use the Wisconsin Relay Service number 711. Security Provisions who wish to opt out of this consent With respect to the safeguarding should address this in writing provisions of the GLB Act, Mid- to the director of Marketing & STUDENT HEALTH State GLB Information Security Communications. CARE RECORDS Plan herein is designed to (CONFIDENTIALITY) ensure the security, integrity, SOLOMON AMENDMENT In accordance with Wisconsin and confidentiality of non-public The Solomon Amendment, a federal State Statute 146.82, all student customer information, protecting law, mandates that institutions health care records shall remain it against anticipated threats, and receiving certain federal agency confidential, released only to the guarding it against unauthorized funding must fulfill military persons designated in the statute, access or use. Covered under the recruitment requests for access provided that informed consent of plan are administrative, technical, to campus and for lists containing the student is obtained prior to the and physical safeguards used student recruiting information. release of information. Exceptions to in the collection, distribution, Recruiters may receive recruiting the above reside within Wisconsin processing, protection, storage, information for either the Statutes 48.981, 48.90, 146.995, use, transmission, handling, or immediately previous, current, or 69.14, 979.01, 146.025, 143.04, 143.07, disposal of non-public customer future term for all students age 17 and 143.12, which require mandatory information. The plan covers and older who are/were registered reporting of specific circumstances actions by both employees of for at least one credit hour in the to public authorities regardless of the College and vendors that the requested semester/term. Mid-State whether the individual involved has College partners with to provide complies with the regulations of the consented to the release of such services to students. Mid-State Solomon Amendment. information. does its best to ensure that the Upon review by, or if shared with a personal information retained STUDENT & EMPLOYEE about individuals is accurate. Every Mid-State educational professional, faculty member, staff member, and RIGHT TO KNOW REPORT medical and counseling records Mid-State Technical College is student has the ability to check become part of the student’s committed to maintaining an personal information such as his educational records, and will environment that supports student or her name, address, and phone be treated in accordance with learning and achievement. number through MyMSTC and to FERPA (Family Educational Rights update it at any Student Services The Student & Employee Right to and Privacy Act) and HIPAA & Information Center. Mid-State Know Report complies with various (Health Insurance Portability and has deployed extensive security state and federal laws requiring that Accountability Act) recordkeeping measures to protect against the certain information be provided to requirements. loss, misuse, or alteration of the all students and employees annually information under College control. to promote a safer environment. It includes information from policies concerning alcohol and drugs,

20 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

STUDENT RECORDS AND employees, auditors, and outside 3. Request a hearing in writing if PRIVACY RIGHTS service vendors, who require the outcome of the challenge is The Family Educational Rights non-directory information to unsatisfactory. and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 perform a task or assignment. 4. Submit an explanatory statement protects the privacy of educational • Courts or legal officers on the for inclusion in the educational records, establishes the rights of basis of a subpoena. record if the outcome of the students to inspect and review their • Properly authorized educational hearing is unsatisfactory. educational records, and provides authorities for the purpose of 5. Prevent disclosure with certain guidelines for the correction of research, provided that the exceptions of personally inaccurate or misleading data information is not given in identifiable information. through informal and formal personally identifiable format. 6. Secure a copy of the institutional hearings. Visit https://www2.ed.gov/ • State and local officials to policy. Copies of the policy can policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index. whom disclosure is required by be obtained from the registrar. html for more information. state statute adopted prior to 7. File complaints regarding alleged Education Records November 19, 1974. violations of FERPA with the Education Records are defined as • Other colleges, should a Mid- Family Policy and Compliance “records, files, communications, State student seek to enroll in Office. and other materials in any recorded another college or university to medium that relate directly to complete a course or degree. Directory Information a student and are maintained In complying with FERPA by Mid-State.” These records Mid-State may disclose personally guidelines, Mid-State will release include, but are not limited to, identifiable information from an the following directory information academic records, financial records, education record to appropriate without the consent of the student: disabilities information, counseling parties, including parents of an • Student’s name documentation, and instructional eligible student, in connection with • Date of birth progress. Health records that are an emergency if knowledge of the shared with counselors or staff information is necessary to protect • Student status of Mid-State for instructional or the health or safety of the student • Address or other individuals. counseling purposes are classified • Email address as student records by FERPA. Mid-State maintains a record of • Telephone number all releases of student records. A Release of Non-Directory • Program(s) of study Information student may request to view a copy Records are not released to parents of what was shared by contacting • Dates of enrollment without written consent of the the registrar at 715.422.5502. • Degree(s) and award(s) received student. Parents should arrange Right to Review and Inspect (including honors) with their children for sharing Education Records • Past and present sports and of information. Non-directory Students have the right to the student activities information is not released to following: • Educational institutions attended anyone without written permission from the student, except for the 1. Inspect and review information • Student photographs contained in educational records. following agencies that can receive The College does not release or sell All requests to review educational this data without the student’s directory information to any outside records must be made in writing permission as provided by the entity for commercial, marketing, or to the registrar. Students are Privacy Act: solicitation purposes. Students have provided this opportunity for • Agencies providing financial the right to inform Mid-State that review within 45 days from the assistance to the student, such as any or all of the above information date of receipt of the request. employers, Division of Vocational should not be released without their Students may be provided with Rehabilitation, and the Veterans prior consent. Students who wish to copies of their education records Administration. do this must complete the Request with appropriate written consent to Prevent Disclosure of Directory • The Wisconsin Technical College should they be unable to come to Information form revoking any or Board as part of the process of the appropriate campus location all of the public information listed. securing state funds. for review of their records. Official Revocation remains in effect until the • Mid-State designated school copies of student records may student notifies Mid-State in writing officials who have a legitimate not be removed from Mid-State. of a change. Forms are also available educational need for the 2. Challenge the contents of their at https://www.mstc.edu/registration- information. Designated school educational record in writing to and-records or any Student Services officials are defined as faculty, the student records manager. & Information Center.

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Request for Nondisclosure of CLUBS AND potential students, families, and directory information does not ORGANIZATIONS community partners. apply to registered sex offenders Mid-State supports both • Assist with new student whose information has been extracurricular (non-program- orientations. provided to Mid-State under related) and co-curricular • Present information about the Wetterling Act, including (program-related) clubs. These Mid-State to various groups. information made available by the organizations provide opportunities • Serve as a mentor and/or Wisconsin sex offender registry and to learn more about your chosen resource to current students. community notification program. professional field, experience • Other duties as assigned. cultural enrichment, and develop teamwork, leadership, and time WISCONSIN STUDENT student activities management skills. For a listing of GOVERNMENT (WSG) At each campus, Mid-State offers active clubs and information about WSG’s purpose is to bring many activities and events for how to join, visit student issues and concerns students, including free food https://www.mstc.edu/student-life/ to the forefront and limelight and giveaways, speakers, Career clubs-and-organizations. with a united voice. Mid-State Services workshops, and more. representatives join representatives Events are advertised in a variety of GERMAN EXCHANGE from other technical colleges ways, such as Mid-State’s website PROGRAM to work together as a team (https://www.mstc.edu/calendar/ The German Exchange Program on all relevant issues. WSG is all), Facebook (https://www. is on hold for the 2020–2021 a nonpartisan, not-for-profit facebook.com/groups/mstclife), academic year and will resume for organization dedicated to student email, and touchscreen the 2021–2022 academic year. Be promoting political awareness monitors. Students may also a part of the Mid-State and Max- and stimulating discussion and participate in UW-Stevens Point Eyth Schule International Student action among students. To find out activities at the university student Exchange! A group of six students more, visit https://www.mstc.edu/ rate, such as athletic events, plays, are selected for participation in an student-life. intramural sports, and clubs. Visit educational and cultural exchange https://www.mstc.edu/student-life/ in Dreieich, Germany, near the city student code student-id for more details. of Frankfurt. Selected students stay with German host families/students. of conduct STUDENT LEADERSHIP For more information and to apply, Mid-State believes that all members visit https://www.mstc.edu/student- of the College community have BOARD (SLB) the responsibility to contribute to Mid-State’s Student Leadership life/german-exchange. a positive learning environment. Board is comprised of campus Every student has the right to be representatives from each campus STUDENT AMBASSADOR educated under the conditions and represents the interests Mid-State will hire ten school of respect, dignity, and safety. of all students by promoting and three campus ambassadors Students are expected to conduct student/faculty understanding to represent the district per themselves in a manner that does and participating in community academic year. In this position, not interfere with the educational affairs that concern, involve, or each ambassador will be among a process, endanger the safety or affect our students. Additionally, group of students who positively welfare of others, or represent a SLB makes decisions on the represent Mid-State while violation of established statutes, expenditures of student activity learning valuable leadership and ordinances, or public laws. fees. Above all, SLB encourages communication skills. Ambassadors students to become involved will serve as a resource for both Standards of conduct are enforced in their educational and social current and potential students on all Mid-State property, any activities. SLB is “learning through as well as community members facility used by the College involvement.” Student Leadership through involvement with various for educational purposes, and Board meets monthly. To learn departments throughout the year. at College-sponsored events. more about Student Leadership Ambassadors will receive $10 per The following student conduct Board, visit https://www.mstc.edu/ hour up to 50 hours per semester. regulations are intended to student-life. Duties and Responsibilities: give students general notice of • Attend ambassador training prohibited conduct. However, they and meetings. • Assist with recruitment, student life, and outreach events. • Provide campus tours to

22 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook student handbook

are not meant to define misconduct or not criminal or civil sanctions single class together from multiple in every circumstance. Standards are pursued. Apparent or alleged campuses. High-definition video violations include (but are not violation of local ordinances and high-quality presentation limited to) the following: and federal or state law on viewing make the connection 1. Noncompliance with all Mid- College premises or at College- between multiple classrooms State policies including, but not sponsored or supervised activities almost seamless. limited to, those found at https:// will be forwarded to local law www.mstc.edu/about-us/policies. enforcement authorities. The Computer Conferencing current Student Code of Conduct Computer conferencing, used by 2. Noncompliance with civil and can be found at https://www.mstc. Mid-State to conduct computer lab criminal laws. edu/sites/default/files/2019-01/ computer conferencing courses 3. All forms of dishonesty, including StudentCodeofConduct_2.pdf. across campuses, connects users knowingly furnishing false on individual computers to an information to Mid-State, or the instructor in a separate classroom. alteration or use of Mid-State technology Blackboard Collaborate is a high- documents or instruments of COMPUTERS AND definition video conferencing and identification with intent to INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY collaboration tool on individual defraud. computers. The instructor will In an effort to prepare graduates provide students with information 4. Conduct which disrupts the for today’s workplace, Mid-State about using Blackboard Collaborate normal operations of Mid-State integrates computers and other at the beginning of the course. and/or classroom instruction. technology into many of its Students will need a computer 5. Conduct which is disorderly, courses. Students should expect headset with a microphone for lewd, or indecent, including to use a computer for a variety of Blackboard Collaborate courses. physical abuse, verbal abuse, tasks in classes and for homework threats, intimidation, harassment, assignments, including, but not Online Learning sexual offenses, coercion, and/ limited to, word processing, In an online course, 100 percent or any conduct that threatens or presentation, and web-based of the learning is completed away endangers any person. instruction as well as to receive from campus. Online courses allow important College communications 6. Theft of, or damage to, Mid-State students to work on coursework via College-assigned email. or personal property. at any time during a given week 7. Failure to comply with a rather than a set time of meeting reasonable request or directive Course Delivery Options with the instructor. Online courses of a Mid-State staff member. Flexible, distance learning are very structured and provide options improve accessibility and 8. Use, possession, or distribution interaction with other students affordability to courses offered as of illegal drugs or alcohol. and set deadlines for coursework they can better fit busy schedules completion. 9. Possession of firearms, and reduce costs for travel and time explosives, dangerous articles, away from work. Hybrid Learning and/or incendiary devices. Hybrid courses offer the best of 10. Abuse or misuse of computers Distance Learning takes place both worlds. In a hybrid course, per Network Policies. any time a student is learning students will have face-to-face outside of the immediate proximity meeting time with their instructor Incident reports should be of the instructor. At Mid-State, completed and filed with the dean and classmates as well as time distance learning includes online, learning in the online environment. of Student Support or campus hybrid, TelePresence, computer deans. Students found in violation Fifty percent or more of your class conferencing, and independent time will be online. Hybrid classes of the Student Code of Conduct study courses. may be subject to disciplinary are designed to provide students with a little more scheduling sanctions. Sanctions may include, Blackboard is used by most but are not limited to, verbal and/ flexibility and maximize your time distance education courses. Many with the instructor. or written warning, probation, face-to-face courses at Mid-State suspension, expulsion, restitution, also use Blackboard to provide a Blended Learning or other discipline deemed single place for the students to go appropriate. Blended courses offer flexibility in for content, resources, turning in learning. In a blended course, you The appeal process (academic assignments, and more. will have face-to-face meeting time and non-academic) is outlined with your instructor and classmates in the Student Code of Conduct. TelePresence as well as time learning in the online Sanctions may be imposed for TelePresence is a real-time environment. Less than 50 percent violations of these rules whether interactive experience joining a of the classroom hours will be online.

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EMAIL ONLINE SERVICES-MYMSTC All students are granted an email Student online services are available address through Microsoft Office to all enrolled students at Mid-State. 365. Students will retain their Students can access the following email address for 180 days after services via MyMSTC: the end date of the last semester • Accept/decline/review financial the student was enrolled in. aid awards. Important information regarding • Search/add/drop classes. registration, billing, financial aid, • Verify enrollment. grades, and scheduling information • View grades. are distributed to students via • Request official transcripts their Mid-State email account. It • Pay by check or credit card. is the student’s responsibility to • Enroll in a payment plan open and read their email regularly. • Review holds. Mid-State email is the College’s • View student class schedules. primary means of communicating • View transfer credit summary. with students. Instructors may • Apply to graduate. utilize the College-assigned email Admitted students can gain initial system to mail student academic access to MyMSTC by navigating to progress information that is private. https://myportal.mywilm.com/psc/ It is the student’s responsibility to MSTC/EMPLOYEE/EMPL/c/NUI_ ensure that their email and network FRAMEWORK.PT_LANDINGPAGE. account password is not shared GBL?? and selecting with other persons. Need to Create a Password. Passwords Please go to https://www.mstc.edu/ should be kept confidential and not technology/email-assistance for shared with other persons for any instructions on accessing your email reason. Parents are not issued login account. Problems or questions information for their children. may be directed to the Help Desk at 877.469.6782. TECHNOLOGY COMPUTER NETWORK AND PUBLIC HELP DESK SERVICES WIRELESS ACCESS Students who have questions All users of Mid-State information about accessing Mid-State online technology resources are required services can contact the Help Desk to abide by the acceptable use at 877.469.6782. All student online agreement terms and agree to services and Mid-State Help Desk all terms in the Network Policies services are available 24 hours a day, found at https://www.mstc.edu/ seven days a week, including holidays. technology/network-policies. These Additional information regarding terms govern the access to and technology at Mid-State can be use of the information technology found at https://www.mstc.edu/ applications, services, and resources technology. of Mid-State and the information they generate. This access is considered a necessary privilege in order to perform authorized functions. Users shall not knowingly permit use of their entrusted access control mechanism for any purposes other than those required to perform authorized functions. The College reserves the right to, without notice, limit or restrict access and to inspect, remove, or otherwise alter any data, file, or system resource that may undermine the authorized use of any Mid-State IT resources. Violations of the Acceptable Use Policy are subject to disciplinary action.

24 Mid-State Technical College 2020-2021 Student Handbook ADAMS CAMPUS MARSHFIELD CAMPUS 401 North Main 2600 West 5th Street Adams, WI 53910 Marshfield, WI 54449

STEVENS POINT CAMPUS WISCONSIN RAPIDS CAMPUS 1001 Centerpoint Drive 500 32nd Street North Stevens Point, WI 54481 Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

mstc.edu 888.575.6782 • TTY: 711

Mid-State does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its program, activity, or employment. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Vice President – Human Resources; 500 32nd Street North, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494; 715.422.5325 • [email protected]. 8/2020