Table of Contents

Terms to Know...... 2 All About VC...... 3 Divisions & Programs...... 4 Admissions & Registration...... 5 Frequently Asked Questions...... 7 Student Services Offices...... 9 Student Resources...... 13 Campus Police...... 16

Student Code of Conduct

Part I: Students Rights & Responsibilities Disciplinary Action Process...... 18 Disciplinary Offenses...... 19 Sanctions...... 20 Rights of Students...... 22 Student Organizations...... 25

Part II: Student Rights & Responsibilities Regarding Academic Relationships Disposition of Cases Involving Alleged Violations of the Academic Rights of Students...... 28 Academic Offenses...... 29 Disposition of Cases of Alleged Offenses...... 29

Part III: Policies Computer Use Policies and Related Regulations ...... 32 Traffic Policy...... 39 Security Policy...... 40 Attendance Policy...... 40 Children on Campus Policy...... 42 Emergency Procedures Policy...... 42 Victoria College Victoria Student Handbook 1 Terms to Know Major: The specific subject area in which a student determines to devote most effort Academic Probation: A student who at- in college. Twenty-four to thirty semester tempts six or more hours in a semester and hours of work in a specific subject are usu- earns a grade point average (GPA) below ally required. Half or more of these courses 2.0 for that semester is placed on Academic usually are in the junior and senior year at a Probation. 4-year college or university. Admission: The process of filling out Minor: A student’s secondary subject forms, filing documents and taking tests choice. It usually consists of 18 or more prior to registering for classes. semester hours in a specific subject area. Assessment: A test used to determine a student’s skill levels in math, English and Placement Test: See Assessment reading. The results are used to ensure Pirate Portal: A secure, personalized that students are meeting basic skills before gateway where VC students can access enrolling in college level courses. important college information, check e-mail, Course: The organized subject mat- access Blackboard, register for courses, ter in which instruction is offered within a check grades, collaborate via Group Studio, given period of time and for which credit and more. toward graduation or certification usually is Semester: An academic term of study of awarded. 16 weeks, which is half of a 9-month school Course Prerequisite: The preliminary re- year. There are also two five-week summer quirement that must be met before a certain terms, 8-week fast track terms in both fall course can be taken. and spring and a 2-week interim session immediately after the spring semester. Credit: Measure of the quantity of work in Student: Any person taking any credit or a course, sometimes referred to as an hour. non-credit course(s) offered by the College. Curriculum: A group of required courses Transcript: An official copy of a student’s leading to a degree or certificate. Also academic record. refers to course offerings of a college as a whole. Transfer Course: Any course offered that is listed in the general academic course Elective: A subject or course which a stu- guide manual. dent may choose to take as distinguished from a required course. Transfer Institution: A college or univer- sity to which one may transfer for advanced Grade Point Average: The grade point education or training after attending a average (GPA) is determined by dividing community college. the total grade points earned by hours attempted. A course in which a grade of TSI: Texas Success Initiative; legislation W is earned will not be counted as hours requiring assessments in reading, math and attempted. writing before attending public colleges or universities Installment Plan: A method available to pay tuition and fees. Under the plan, one- Tuition and Fees: Charges levied for en- half of the tuition and fees must be paid rolling in classes and for the use of college at the time of registration. For the fall and facilities. See the college catalog and/or spring semesters, the balance is due in two semester schedule for additional payments. For summer, the balance is due information. in one payment. There is a $20 service fee Tutoring: Free services which provide ad- to use the installment plan. Any charges ditional academic assistance for all students incurred after the initial contract has been completed must be paid in full.

2 All About VC diversity among staff, students and our community, while cultivating a respectful, Mission collegial and accessible working and learn- The Victoria College is a public, open ad- ing environment. mission college. Our mission is to provide educational opportunities and services for We value student achievement and student our students and the communities we serve. success. The Victoria College will create To that end The Victoria College provides learning opportunities that challenge our the following: students and help them meet their educa- University Transfer – Academic courses tional goals. that apply to the baccalaureate degree and meet the educational needs of students Victoria College Centers planning to transfer to a university. Victoria College Gonzales Center is located at 424 E. Sarah DeWitt in Gonzales, Texas. Workforce Education – Career and This center was opened in collaboration technical courses and programs designed with the City of Gonzales and the Gonza- to satisfy local and regional employer les Development Corporation. It includes demands and meet individual workforce state-of-the-art classrooms and laborato- training needs. ries, interactive television, a computer lab, a tutoring center, a nursing lab and faculty Academic Foundations – Compensatory and staff offices. This center offers a variety education courses designed to prepare of credit and non-credit classes, including students effectively for success in college- vocational nursing, in classroom, ITV and level studies. online settings.

Continuing Education – Non-credit cours- Victoria College Calhoun Center is located es and programs that meet the immediate at 900 N. Virginia Street in Port Lavaca, Tex- technical and occupational skills needs of as. This center was opened in collaboration employers and the individual, and fulfill the with Calhoun County Independent School personal enrichment and cultural needs of District in an effort to provide workforce the individual and the community. training for employees and staff of the area plant facilities, as well as members of the Adult Education – Adult education, basic Calhoun County community. The center is skills, and English as a second language in- equipped with state-of-the-art classrooms, structional programs that meet the specific interactive television, science labs, a tutor- educational needs of our adult constituency. ing center, a computer lab, a buildings trade Counseling, Guidance and Student Sup- lab and faculty and staff offices. A variety port – Services and activities that support of credit and non-credit classes, includ- student success. ing adult education classes, are offered in classroom, ITV and online settings. Cultural and Intellectual Outreach – Educational activities and events that en- hance our community’s quality of life.

Values The Victoria College’s commitment to its Mission is guided by the following values: We value integrity. The Victoria College will foster an environment of respect, honesty, openness and fairness, and will promote responsible stewardship of resources and public trust.

We value respect for the unique charac- teristics and abilities of individuals. The Victoria College will welcome and promote

3 Divisions & Programs Non-Credit Continuing Education Programs & Courses Academic Divisions Sherri Pall, Business Operations Manager Division of Academic Foundations Business Institute...... 361-582-2528 361-582-2438 Commercial Truck Driving...... 361-582-2590 Division of Allied Health Computer Institute...... 361-582-2528 361-572-6497 Construction & Maintenance Institute...... 361-582-2528 Division of Arts, Humanities and Emergency Medical Services Social Sciences Professions...... 361-572-6417 361-582-2576 Language Institute...... 361-582-2528 Division of Science, Mathematics & Medical Field Courses...... 361-572-6446 Physical Education Motorcycle Safety...... 361-582-2528 361-573-3291, ext. 3252 Police Academy...... 361-572-6426 Real Estate Institute...... 361-582-2528 Division of Social & Behavioral Sciences 361-582-2530 Division of Career & Technical Education 361-572-6467

Courses ALLIED HEALTH CAREERS LeAnn Wagner, Dean Associate Degree Nursing Medical Lab Technology Physical Therapy Assistant Respiratory Care Vocational Nursing CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION Betsy Crane, Dean Business Management Computer Information Systems Electronics/Instrumentation Emergency Medical Services Firefighting Nuclear Power Technology Process Technology Professional Office Technology Web Page/Digital Multimedia

4 Current Students Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable ? If necessary Meet with counselor or advisor if unsure faculty Former VC Students Former Not Applicable ? If Applicable ? Call 572-6408 if unsure New Students New (prior college experience) Not Applicable ? If unsure New Students New (no prior college) Not Applicable - Registration Checklist Registration VC Application Complete Request high school VC transcripts/GED sent to Admissions Office college transcripts Have VC Admissions Of sent to to Bring a second copy fice. (Transfers advising session. than 12 hours with fewer an official also provide must high school transcript or GED) TSI status Determine Meet with a counselor or advisor Select classes Register when eligible deadline by Pay Admissions & Registration WEB! THE ON TIME – APPLY SAVE site at www. Web Visit our in the mail? Complete application online. an application to arrive for up an application? Can’t wait time to pick Don’t have Admissions. the link to Application for and follow victoriacollege.edu/enrollnow 5 Online Registration New Student Information A student may Web register if the following Sessions requirements are met: New Student Information Sessions are • Passing scores on file on all parts of designed to acquaint new students with an assessment test, if not exempt. the Victoria College campus and the • No holds on record (Admissions, various resources that can enhance both Library, Parking, Financial Aid, etc.). personal development and academic • A returning VC student or a transfer success. All incoming first-time-in-college student who has completed the ap- students(excluding dual credit students) plication process one week prior to are required to participate in an online or registration. face-to-face New Student Information Ses- • In good academic standing – not on sion prior to registration. For New Student scholastic probation. Information Session dates and times, visit www.victoriacollege.edu/newstudentinfor- If all the requirements are met: mationsession. • Acquire a User ID and password at https://helpdesk.victoriacollege.edu/ Victoria College maintains an “open door” bansam/ User ID and password are admissions policy under the authority of required to access the Pirate Portal the Texas Administrative Code Title 19 and and should be known only by the the Southern Association of Colleges and student. Schools. Admission to the college does • Register and make schedule changes, not guarantee admission to all programs of pay tuition and fees and check grades the College. Admission requirements for by utilizing the Pirate Portal from the specific allied health programs are listed in Victoria College homepage. Payments the college catalog. can also be made online or a fee state- ment can be printed to take to College Central if the student does not wish to pay online.

Payment of Tuition and Fees For all advisor-assisted registration, a fee statement will be generated by the advisor for the student to take to College Central for payment. Payment can also be made online. Grants, loans and scholarships will be posted directly into the student’s account to offset tuition and fees. If the aid posted is not enough to cover tuition and fees, it is the student’s responsibility to pay the remaining balance before the term begins.

6 Frequently Asked Questions A copy of the College College Central and on the Pirate Where do I get: Catalog Portal Home tab

A copy of the Class The Pirate Portal Home tab Schedule

A copy of my transcript College Central or by accessing the Pirate Portal Academic Services tab

Change College Central or the Bookstore

A student ID Card The VC/UHV Library, first floor circulation desk Contact faculty Instructors can be emailed through How do I: Blackboard on the Pirate Portal My Courses tab. To contact an instructor by telephone, call the switchboard at 361-573-3291.

Get my grades Visit www.victoriacollege.edu and access the Pirate Portal My Courses tab. Grade reports can also be re- quested at College Central or Admis- sions & Records

Find out about campus Log in to the Pirate Portal and visit events the Home tab

Post an upcoming event on Contact Marketing & Communications the website at 361-582-2416

File a complaint or concern Refer to page 22 of this handbook

If I miss classes because of Contact your instructors & make What should accident or illness arrangements to make up work. I do: Depending on the severity of the situation, dropping the course might be an option.

When I’m ready to graduate Complete an application for gradua- tion in College Central or Admissions & Records

If I lock my keys in my car Contact Campus Security by dialing or have a dead battery 3-911, 220-1391 or 582-2580. They will help you contact a locksmith, service station or wrecker service. Sell my books back to the The bookstore will purchase books Can I: bookstore on an as-needed basis for either half the purchase price or the current wholesale price.

7 What are Scholastic Probation and Enforced Withdrawal? Scholastic Probation Students enrolled with The Victoria College are expected to make a cumulative grade point average of 2.0. 1. A student who is enrolled for six or more semester hours (credit) and 2. Fails to make a 2.0 cumulative grade point average 3. Will be placed on scholastic probation. The cumulative grade point average will be determined by considering all courses taken except those courses in which grades of Q, W, S or SA or SB or SC, T, U or UD or UF were received. Students on scholastic probation may remove their probationary status by taking six or more semester credit hours and earning a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.0 or above. Students placed on scholastic probation will be required to enroll in EDUC 1300. Transfer Students Students transferring from another college/university to Victoria College will be admitted without regard to probation status from their former college or university.

Enforced Withdrawal Students who are on scholastic probation, take six or more semester credit hours, but earn below a 2.0 cumulative G.P.A. for their next semester/term of enrollment will be placed on enforced withdrawal. Students placed on enforced withdrawal: • Will not be permitted to return to Victoria College until one long semester (fall or spring) has elapsed. • Have the right to appeal for readmission through the Director of Counseling Service

Enforced Withdrawal Appeal Process Step 1: Student submits letter of appeal to the Director of Counseling no later than 2 class days prior to registration. The following must be provided: • Current mailing address • Current telephone number • Social Security number Step 2: Director of Counseling Services reviews appeal Appeal Denied – No further right of appeal Appeal Considered – Director of Counseling interviews student Step 3: Appeal Denied – No further action Readmission Granted – Student signs Agreement of Understanding for Academic Suspension Appeal

8 Student Services Offices Admissions & Records (361) 582-6408 available Monday through Thursday from Admissions & Records is responsible for 8:00 am until 6:00 pm and on Friday from providing the following services: 8:00 am until 4:00 pm. Summer hours vary. • Admissions Information Check the website for up to date informa- • Student Status Changes tion. Counselors can also be contacted at • Credit by Exam [email protected]. • Tech Prep Credit • Verification of Enrollment Additional Services: • Residency Determination Career & Transfer Center • Grades For students who are searching for a voca- • Graduation Information tion, major or specific area of interest or are Hours of operation are Monday through interested in transferring to another com- Thursday from 8:00 am until 4:30 and from munity college or university, a visit to the 8:00 am until 4:00 pm on Friday. Summer Career & Transfer Center is recommended. hours vary. Check the website for up-to- The Center provides information regard- date information. ing off-campus employment opportunities, career fairs and transfer requirements. College Central (361) 582-2569 The Center will assist students: Located in the Administration Building • who are undecided across from the Academic Advising and • who have not identified an area of Counseling Services Office, College Central interest is a one-stop location for: • who are considering a change of major • Admissions Information • who are interested in transferring to a • Testing Information university or other community college • Financial Aid Information Call 361-572-6405 or visit www.victoriacol- • General Information lege.edu/careerservices for more • Fee Payment information. • Transcript Requests Hours of operation are Monday through Disability Services Thursday from 7:30 am until 6:00 pm and Disability support services are arranged on from 7:30 am until 4:00 pm on Friday. an individual case-by-case basis for quali- Summer hours vary. Check the website for fied students with learning, physical or other up-to-date information. disabilities. Services may include: • priority registration Advising and Counseling Services • note-taking assistance (361) 572-6405 • special parking provisions Students are encouraged to become • adapted testing acquainted with the advising staff and to • reader services take advantage of educational, career • information and referrals and personal counseling services. These • special equipment & equipment services are available to all students, both adaptation. on-campus and off-campus, upon request. Prospective students who may qualify This department is responsible for providing should contact Dolores Solis at 361-582- information regarding: 2400 at least one month prior to registra- • Tutoring tion. Supporting documentation may be • Assessment tests required. A Disability Support Services Stu- • Academic Advising dent Handbook is available in the Advising • Orientation and Counseling Services Office. Students • Recruiting with disabilities, who feel that their rights • Support services for special have been violated, have the right to file a populations grievance. The procedure for doing so is The Advising and Counseling Services Of- outlined in the Disability Support Services fice is located in the Administration Building, Student Handbook and on page 24 of this Suite 105. Counselors and advisors are handbook.

9 Financial Aid Services (361) 572-6415 IMPORTANT: If sufficient financial aid Students who need help paying for college (Pell, SEOG, TPEG, Scholarships) has are encouraged to visit the Financial Aid Of- been awarded to pay all fees, awards will fice. The Financial Aid staff will make every automatically be used to pay those fees on effort to assist students in obtaining the the date they are due. necessary funds to attend college. A vari- In addition to processing applications for ety of federal and state funds are available federal and state grants, the Financial Aid to qualifying students. Steps for obtaining Office offers assistance and information for financial aid include: the following programs: • Completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid online at www. Childcare Assistance fafsa.ed.org and a Student Informa- Limited childcare assistance is available tion Sheet available in the Financial through a federal grant and is restricted Aid Office or on the Pirate Portal to students enrolled in occupational or Student Services tab in the Financial technical programs of study. The Financial Aid Information channel. If selected for Aid Office can provide more information re- verification, additional documentation garding the Childcare Assistance Program. is required. Applications are available from Financial • Submitting a high school transcript or Aid or the Financial Aid Information channel GED passing grades to the Admis- on the Student Services tab of the Pirate sions & Records office. Portal. Students are encouraged to submit • Receiving financial aid award letter. applications as early as possible. • Logging in to the Pirate Portal and ac- Federal Work-Study cepting the Financial Aid Award in the The Victoria College is participating in the Financial Aid Award channel on the Federal Work-Study program during the Student Services tab. 2010-2011 school year. For students to Scholarships and grants can be used for participate in the program, they must be tuition, fees, book & supplies. Loan funds eligible to receive Federal Financial Aid. are not available for initial payment of tuition For more information and/or an application, and fees. contact the Financial Aid Office or the Hu- Important things to remember: man Resources Office. Apply Early - Students relying on financial aid for payment must have an award letter Scholarships prior to the last payment date. A wide variety of scholarships are available from The Victoria College, from the com- Avoid Out-of-Pocket Expenses - Students munity and from civic organizations. The without an award letter from the Financial criterion for receiving scholarships varies Aid Office must be prepared to pay from according to the standards set by scholar- personal funds. ship donors and by the Victoria College Money for Books - Students wishing to Scholarship Committee. Institutional schol- use financial aid for Bookstore charges may arships are awarded for various programs do so after they have completed registration of study and for academic merit. The schol- and paid for all their charges or have set up arship application is available on the Pirate a payment plan at College Central. Portal Student Services tab in the Financial Aid Information channel. Apply early. Withdrawing from Classes - Students who withdraw completely from all classes may be responsible for the repayment of some or all the financial aid they received. Any nonrefundable tuition and fees originally paid for with financial aid may also be owed. Students should consult with a Financial Aid counselor prior to withdrawing from classes.

10 Student Loans K.E.Y. Center – Student Support Applications for both the Stafford subsidized Services (361) 582-2414 loan and unsubsidized loans are processed K.E.Y. stands for Knowledge, Exploration, by the Financial Aid Office. Applications and You — these will be the “keys” that can be obtained by contacting Financial Aid unlock great opportunities for a Victoria or the Financial Aid Information channel College student’s education and life. A on the Student Services tab of the Pirate Federal TRiO Program, the mission of the Portal. Student loans cannot be used for K.E.Y. Center is to promote participation initial payment of tuition and fees. in postsecondary education by providing Students receiving direct subsidized or an academically enriching and supportive unsubsidized loans must complete exit loan environment that encourages intellectual counseling upon: growth and social development for qualified • Successful completion of academic individuals. The K.E.Y. Center-Student Sup- program port Services program is funded by the U.S. • Transferring to another college or Department of Education to serve 160 Vic- university toria College students and retain, motivate, • Complete withdrawal from program and graduate low-income, first generation • Course load drops below six hours and/or students with disabilities. A hold will be placed on the academic re- cord of any student who does not complete The services provided by the K.E.Y. Center the exit loan counseling. Future credit and include: non-credit registrations and official requests • Academic Advising and Degree will be denied until all obligations are met. Planning • Career Counseling and Exploration The Financial Aid Office is located in the through job shadowing, career plan- Administration Building. The hours are ning, and other resources from 8:00 am until 4:30 pm Monday through • Computer and Study Lounge desig- Thursday and from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm nated for K.E.Y. Center members on Friday. Financial Aid counselors are • Financial Aid Assistance to help guide available in the evenings, by appointment students through steps to secure only. Summer hours may vary. Check grants and scholarships the website for current information. The • Financial literacy programs to em- Financial Aid Office can be contacted at power students with information on 361-572-6415 or by email at money management [email protected]. • Mentoring Program to pair a student NOTE: A Federal Refund Policy will ap- with a VC faculty, staff or student to ply to all students receiving Federal Title help establish a solid support system IV funding who withdraw from the College • Resources and equipment for suc- before 60% of the period of enrollment has cessful study habits. been completed. The law requires that, • Transfer Assistance for students who when a student withdraws during a period plan to continue their education be- of enrollment, the amount of financial aid yond The Victoria College earned up to that point is determined by • Tutoring Program designated for K.E.Y. a specific formula. A student’s withdrawal Center members and includes indi- date is the date the student began the vidual and group assistance institution’s withdrawal process or officially Further information is available by visiting notified the institution of intent to withdraw, the website at www.victoriacollege.edu/ or the student’s last date of attendance. keycenter. Based on the withdrawal date, if the student received less assistance than the amount earned, he or she will receive those ad- ditional funds. If the student received more assistance than was earned, the excess funds must be returned.

11 Student Activities & Student Center Tutoring Centers (361) 572-6473 (361) 572-6440 • Main Tutoring and Study Center in Campus student activities are designed CEC 100 with the Reading room next to give students the opportunity for self- door in CEC 102 expression, to provide recreation and to • Reading/Writing center in JH 101 increase interest in academic courses. • Math Tutoring Center in JH 203 Opportunities for entertainment include: • Science Tutoring Center in HSC 121C • Big screen television • Gonzales Center • Pool tables • Calhoun Center • tennis courts Free tutoring services to all VC students • Horseshoe and washer pits are available at the 6 Tutoring Centers, • A sand volleyball court and schedules are posted on the Tutor- Inside the Student Center, students will find ing Center Web site. The Web site can be the Campus Bookstore, The Cove which accessed on the Academic Services tab of includes a Subway, a dining area, meeting the Pirate Portal. rooms, a computer lab and the Student Tutors in English, computer sciences, math, Government Office. and social & behavioral sciences are avail-

able in the Tutoring and Study Center. The The Student Activities Office is the central Reading Room provides a quiet area for location for information concerning campus those needing a place to study and read organizations. All students are invited away from the distractions of a busy tutor- to visit the Student Activities Office and ing room, and it also has books available pick up a current list of campus organiza- for checkout. Along with the tutors, other tions. Club information is also available learning aids and handouts are available to on the Pirate Portal Student Services tab help in the explanation of assignments. in the Student Life channel. All registered students in good standing may join student For questions, contact the Tutoring Center organizations. Specific membership and of- at 361-572-6473 or by email at fice holder requirements are determined by [email protected] constitution and by-laws of the group. Cop- Students who wish to work as tutors are ies of each organization’s constitution are encouraged to apply early each semester. maintained in the Student Activities Office. Tutors must maintain a 3.0 GPA, have an instructor’s recommendation and participate Testing Center (361) 582-2589 in CRLA training each semester to ensure In addition to placement tests, the Testing the quality of services offered. Further Center administers DANTES, ACT, GED, information is available on the Tutoring SAT, CLEP and ASE exams, as well as cor- Services Web site. respondence exams. The current test dates are posted at www.victoriacollege.edu/test- ing. For information concerning registration for a test, please contact the Testing Center by email at testingcenter@victoriacollege. edu or call 361-582-2403. For specific information regarding testing requirements, please call 361-582-2589.

12 Student Resources

Insurance Student Employment The College has no insurance to cover The Victoria College offers student as- student injuries. Students are encouraged sistant work positions to students who to obtain their own insurance. Information do not qualify for the Federal Work-Study regarding student insurance, and ap- Program. Students must be enrolled in at plication forms, can be obtained from the least 6 credit hours during a long semester, Counseling Office, College Central, Student 3 credit hours during the summer semes- Activities Office or the Vice President of ters, and maintain a 2.0 GPA to be eligible Student Services Office. to work on campus. For more information about requirements and job openings or to Internet Access and E-Mail Service obtain an application, contact the Human Internet access and e-mail are available to Resources Office. all Victoria College students from a variety of locations around campus. Access is also Student Identification Cards available from home for students who have Students can obtain a photo ID card by tak- Internet access. These services will enable ing a tuition receipt to the VC/UH-V Library. students to communicate with faculty mem- An ID card is required to check out books bers via e-mail, access the Victoria College from the library or to access online library Library and use the Internet as a research resources. ID cards must be re-validated tool. All students are issued a personal each semester. e-mail address which they must activate. Detailed procedures for activating e-mail addresses and accessing Internet services are available from the lab attendants in the various computer labs on campus, in the Tutoring Center or from the Helpdesk located in the Technology Center. The Col- lege strongly encourages students to take advantage of these services and to become proficient Internet users. For more informa- tion, call 361-582-2505 or email helpdesk@ victoriacollege.edu

Student Computer Labs The Victoria College provides computers for student use which include Internet access, e-mail and a wide selection of applications. Labs are located in the Technology Center, Student Center, Academic Building, John- son Hall, the Continuing Education Center and the Health Science Center. Wireless network access is available in the Academic Building, Johnson Hall, the Continuing Education Center, the Student Center, the Technology Center, the Language Building, Sports Center, Administration Building and the Health Science Center. Students can obtain an e-mail address and information concerning student computer support by contacting [email protected] or calling 361-582-2509.

13 Veteran’s Benefits Eligible veterans may assign unused hours • Victoria College is approved by the of exemption to a child under certain condi- Texas Workforce Commission pro- tions. To be eligible, the child must: grams under Title 38 of the US Code. • Be a Texas resident • Veterans are admitted to VC and enroll • Be the biological child, stepchild, ad- in classes on the same basis as other opted child or claimed as a dependent students. in the current or previous tax year • Contact a VA Certifying Official at least • Be 25 years or younger on the first day 6 weeks prior to registration. of the semester or term for which the Certifying Officials are located in exemption is claimed – unless granted College Central, Counseling Services an extension due to a qualifying illness and Admissions & Records. or debilitating condition • VA funding is paid directly to The • Make satisfactory academic progress Victoria College based on coursework. in a degree, certificate or continuing Vouchers are issued for bookstore education program charges. If a child to whom hours have been del- • Degree plan must be approved by egated fails to use all of the assigned hours, the VA – verify with the VA Advisor in a veteran may re-assign the unused hours Advising and Counseling Services. that are available to another dependent Tuition Assistance Programs for Army child. Veteran’s spouses are not eligible to National Guard receive a transfer of unused hours. Information regarding Federal Tuition Veteran’s Work-Study Assistance can be obtained at www. Eligible veterans can apply for Veteran’s virtualarmy.com or by contacting the Edu- Work-study by contacting the Admissions & cation Services Office at 512-782-5512/ Records Office and completing an applica- DSN: 954/5515. Email inquiries should tion. Positions are limited and an interview be sent to [email protected]. is required. mil For information regarding State Tuition Reimbursement, contact the helpdesk via email at [email protected]. State tuition pays in-state tuition plus mandatory fees only and will not pay for online classes. State Tuition Reimbursement is subject to the availability of funds. Hazlewood Act Students interested in using Hazlewood benefits must contact the Financial Aid Office at The Victoria College at least six weeks prior to registration. • Complete a new application each semester. • A tuition waiver is provided - it must be used at the time of registration. It will not be retroactively applied. • The following documents are required to apply for the Hazlewood Act: o Hazlewood application o Copy of the DD-214 o A letter of denial from the VA regarding other educational benefits availability. Students should contact the VA at 800-827- 1000 to obtain a Hazlewood letter.

14 VC/UHV Library Located on the west side of the campus, the library offers an extensive selection of publications in both print and electronic format. Publications include newspapers, periodicals, Texas and U.S. documents and children’s books. The library has a reference desk and an online library catalog and participates in the Interlibrary Loan pro- gram. The media library has audio/visual materials, a textbook collection and public access computers & databases. Comput- ers for accessing the online catalog and electronic resources are available on the first floor. Student study space is available and student clubs and organizations can reserve the third floor conference rooms for meetings or group study. Library Hours: Fall and Spring Semesters Monday – Thursday 7:45 am – 10:00 pm Friday 7:45 am – 5:00 pm Saturday & Sunday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm Summer Semesters Monday – Thursday 7:45 am – 8:00 pm Friday 7:45 am – 5:00 pm Saturday Closed Sunday 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm A schedule of hours during non-class time is posted at the library entrance. Additional information regarding library services and resources is available at http:// vcuhvlibrary.uhv.edu

15 Campus Police

The Victoria College is concerned about the • Engrave or inscribe your driver’s safety and welfare of all campus members license number on all valuables that and guests and is committed to providing you bring to campus. Record all serial a safe and secure environment. Security numbers and complete descriptions measures are employed to ensure that all of property and keep a list in a safe persons on campus enjoy their time at the place. Victoria College free from any threats to • Never leave books or other items unat- their safety and well-being. The College tended. employs state licensed police officers • Watch for suspicious persons and vested with all the powers, privileges and activity. Take note of physical descrip- immunities of peace officers. The Victoria tions involving suspicious persons and College Police have the authority to enforce vehicles. Notify Campus Police/Secu- all applicable local, state and federal laws rity for an investigative follow-up. as well as College rules and regulations • Employees who leave their office unat- in all counties in which property is owned, tended should always lock the door. leased, rented or otherwise under the • Do not loan College keys to anyone. control of the College. The College also • When classrooms or offices are vacat- employs uniformed Campus Security ed for the day, turn off the lights, close Officers who take an active role in park- and lock the door prior to departure. ing enforcement, building access control, • Get acquainted with fellow students escort service and enforcement of College and co-workers. Be aware of persons rules and regulations. Security Officers do who do not belong in designated not have the authority to execute an arrest. areas. However, they do have direct communica- • If criminal incidents or offenses are tion with Campus Police. discovered, contact Campus Police/ Security. Crime/Emergency Reporting • Notify Campus Police if unattended Campus Police can be contacted by calling packages or backpacks are observed 361-582-2406 or 361-220-1391. Campus in an area for an unusually long period Police can be contacted at 361-582-2580. of time. 3-911 can be called from all on-campus • Students and employees can request telephones to reach an on-duty officer. If Campus Security to escort them to contact with Campus Police is unsuc- their vehicles at any time. cessful, please contact City Emergency Services by calling 911. This will bring local Security of and Access to Facilities police, EMS or Fire Department personnel Students, faculty and staff have access to on campus to provide immediate assis- academic, recreational and administrative tance. Callers should identify the nature facilities. The general public has access to and location of the crime or emergency, as recreational and meeting facilities, as well well as other applicable information. as to administrative offices during regular business hours. Evening access is limited Questions or suggestions can be directed to to buildings in which evening classes are Campus Police [email protected]. held, meeting facilities which have been Crime Prevention Suggestions scheduled in advance and recreational All campus employees and students must facilities in the Student Center. Campus remember that they have the primary re- Security Officers maintain the security of sponsibility for their own safety and security the buildings by securing locks and report- and are encouraged to develop habits ing any defective locking mechanisms to which will help to safeguard both personal the Maintenance Department. Campus and college property. Security Officers also make note of and • Always lock your vehicle and place all report defective lighting equipment. valuables, such as cameras, stereos, computers, etc., in the trunk or out of sight.

16 Campus Law Enforcement Publications The Victoria College, go to www.victoriacol- Clery Act Report – Federal law requires all lege.edu/sexoffenders and click on the link colleges and universities to disclose infor- to the Texas Sex Offender Database. mation regarding crime on and around their For additional information regarding regis- respective campuses. The Department of tered sex offenders on campus, contact the Police and Campus Security, in accordance Police and Campus Safety Office. Please with the Clery Act, compiles and publishes see the Convicted Sex Offender Policy, Part an annual security report. Statistics for the III, Article IX, of the Code of Conduct for report are obtained from the Victoria Col- more information. lege Police Department, the Victoria Police Public Crime Log – The Victoria Col- Department, Hallettsville Police Depart- lege maintains a Public Crime Log which ment, Cuero Police Department, Gonzales contains a record of all criminal incidents Police Department and the Port Lavaca reported to Campus Police. The log may Police Department. A copy of the report also contain references to reports of other can be viewed at www.victoriacollege. non-criminal safety or risk related incidents. edu/images/files/police or a copy can be The Crime Log contains the nature, date, obtained in the Police and Campus Safety time and general location of each crime, as Office, Academic Building, Suite 210, during well as its disposition, if known. Incidents normal business hours. are required to be added to the log within Campus Security & Crime Statistics two business days of occurrence, but cer- Brochure – Annually, The Police and tain information may be withheld to protect Campus Safety Office publishes the Victoria victim privacy or to ensure the integrity of College Campus Security & Crime Statistics ongoing investigations. The Victoria Col- Brochure for distribution to faculty and lege Crime Log is available for review in staff. The report is also provided to incom- the Campus Police & Safety Office during ing freshmen at New Student Information normal business hours. Sessions. A copy of the report can be Timely Warning Notice and Access to obtained in the Admissions & Records Of- Information fice, College Central, the Office of the Vice The Victoria College must provide timely President of Student Services, the Police warnings to the campus community regard- and Campus Safety Office and in many of ing crimes that pose an ongoing threat the literature stands throughout campus. to students and employees. When there The report is also published online at www. is knowledge of an ongoing threat, or if victoriacollege.edu/campuspolicesecurity. a trend of serious or illegal incidents is Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Ace recorded by Campus Police personnel, a (CSCPA) crime alert bulletin will be issued. CSCPA is a federal law that requires col- leges and universities to issue a state- Gang Free Zones ment providing the campus community Texas Education Code with information regarding registered sex In accordance with Texas Education Code offenders. Law enforcement agencies are Section 51.973, when criminal acts*as required to inform colleges and universi- listed in Texas Penal Code 71.02, are ties when registered sex offenders indicate committed by gang member(s) on or within they plan to attend classes, live, work or 1000 feet of the property owned, rented or volunteer their services on a college or uni- leased by The Victoria College, the resulting versity campus. The law also requires that prescribed punishment will automatically be registered sex offenders personally contact enhanced to the next level for individuals 17 and notify campus police authorities of their years of age or older. impending presence. The Victoria College *Texas Penal Code: www.statutes.legis. prepares and retains an Institute of Higher state.tx.us/Docs/PE/htm/PE.71.htm#71.02 Education Sex Offender Notification for all registered sex offenders that notifies the Victoria College Police Department of their intent to attend classes. To determine what registered sex offenders have registered for 17 Code of Conduct The rules, procedures, rights, responsibilities and policies set forth in this document are designed to ensure that students have an environment that is conducive to learning and to protect student rights as well as the rights of the College. By this publication of the rules governing student conduct, Victoria College recognizes that students have the right to know the circumstances and manner in which this disciplinary power will be exercised and advises students that disciplinary rules will be enforced. PART I – STUDENTS’ RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARTICLE I 1.21 Disciplinary Action Process THE VICTORIA COLLEGE Step 1: VP investigates alleged viola- DISCIPLINE SYSTEM tion of disciplinary rules and determines if a violation was 1.1 Authority of the President of committed Victoria College The Board of Trustees delegates the Step 2: No Violation– No further action responsibility for student discipline to the Violation Committed– VP President of the College. notifies student of allegation and evidence and solicits 1.2 The Role of the Vice President of student’s response. Student Student Services Regarding Disciplinary is allowed 30 calendar days in Actions which to respond. The Vice President of Student Services is Step 3: VP makes determination: the administrator designated by the Presi- No Violation Committed – dent of the College to be responsible for No further action the administration of the Student Code of Violation Committed – VP Conduct. The Vice President of Student invokes appropriate sanction Services shall investigate each student complaint regarding denial of rights as set forth in Article II, with the exception of al- Step 4: Student may appeal, in writing, leged violations of Freedom from Discrimi- to the Disciplinary Committee nation and Freedom from Retaliation and within 10 days Reprisal, to determine whether it contains merit. If the Vice President decides the 1.3 College Policy Regarding Students student complaint has merit, the Vice and Local Authorities President shall attempt to settle the case to The minimum standards of individual the Vice President’s satisfaction and to the conduct required by penal statutes are both satisfaction of the student. The Vice Presi- expected and required of every student dent’s decision, regarding both merit and attending the College. Further, while the in- disposition of the complaint, shall be final. stitution does not desire to act as a policing authority for the activities of the student off College property, and while it cannot serve as a sentencing authority for a student’s violations of federal, state or local law, the College may take appropriate action where necessary as provided under 1.2 or 1.4 of the Code of Student Conduct. a. The College will not undertake to act as a collection agency for landlords, retail stores, magazine and book companies, etc.

18 b. The College cannot accept remand of College property students charged or convicted of viola- k. Lewd, indecent or obscene behavior tions of federal, state or local law for the on College property purpose of imposing disciplinary sanc- l. The threat or commission of physical tion. For off-campus violations of the violence against any person present on law, the College authority shall not be College property used merely to duplicate the function of the general laws but will be asserted m. The commission of acts which con- only when the College’s interests as an stitute a violation of local, state or federal educational community are affected. law on College property n. Unauthorized entry or use of College 1.4 Disciplinary Offenses facilities or any violation of College rules The actions listed and defined below are regarding the use of College property punishable disciplinary offenses and ap- plicable to situations that occur on College o. Failure to comply with directions of property or at College sponsored activities. College officials acting in the perfor- mance of their duties a. Interference, coercion, disruption or reckless behavior which impedes, p. The threat or commission of physical impairs or disrupts the College mission, violence against any College employee processes or functions or which endan- for the purpose of influencing the em- gers others or interferes with the rights ployee’s official actions of others. q. Stealing any item of tangible or b. Use, possession or distribution on intangible public or private property on College property or illegal drugs or College property alcohol r. Possessing a firearm, ammunition, c. Falsifying, altering or forging any illegal knife (including switchblade or official College records or documents, butterfly knives), club, explosive or a employing official College documents chemical dispensing device on College or records for purposes of misrepresen- property tation, or causing any official College documents or records to be falsified by s. Lifting, taking or acquiring possession means of any misrepresentation of, without permission, any academic material (tests, information, research d. Hazing in any form papers, notes, books, periodicals, etc.) from a member of the College commu- e. Passing a worthless check to the nity (including the theft of instructors’ or College or to a member of the College other students’ books and/or material for community acting in an official capacity resale to the Bookstore) f. Possessing stolen property on College t. Bribing any College employee property u. Unauthorized access to or misuse of g. Defacing, disfiguring, damaging or College computers, computing programs destroying public or private property on or service and/or failure to comply with College property Victoria College Computer Use Policies h. Giving false testimony or other and Regulations evidence at any official hearing of the v. Violation of conditions imposed in College or giving false information to any connection with one or more of the sanc- faculty or staff members acting in the tions enumerated in this section performance of their duties w. An attempt to violate subsections c, i. Harassing anyone present on College g, o, r, t, u or v property, including through e-mail, and including sexual or racial harassment x. Any action determined by the College to be detrimental to, or inconsistent with, j. Abusive, drunken, violent or exces- the College’s educational mission sively noisy behavior or expression on 19 1.5 Sanctions Suspension Forced withdrawal Possible sanctions for violation of disciplin- from the College for ary rules are as follows: a specified period of Sanction Definition time, including exclu- sion from classes, Warning Student verbally termination of student cautioned that con- status and all related tinuance or repetition privileges and ac- of specified conduct tivities, and exclusion may be cause for from the campus if other disciplinary ac- set forth in the notice tion. This sanction is of suspension. not subject to appeal. If a student, while on Reprimand A written warning suspension, violates of continuance or the Code of Student repetition of specified Conduct while conduct. A repri- on campus, or in mand becomes part relation to College- of student’s disciplin- sponsored activity ary record and is not as determined after subject to appeal. the opportunity for a hearing, the student Probation Exclusion from par- shall be subject to ticipation in privileges further disciplinary or extracurricular Col- action in the form of lege activities. Can dismissal. also include compli- Students may appeal ance with special a sanction of suspen- conditions, such as sion to the Disciplin- counseling. ary Committee within If a student, while on 10 days. probation, violates any of the terms of Dismissal Exclusion from the the probation, or campus and termina- violates the Student tion of student status Code of Conduct for an indefinite pe- while on campus or riod. The conditions in relation to College- of reconsideration for sponsored activities, readmission will be the student shall be specified at the time subject to further of the dismissal. disciplinary actions in A student who is dis- the form of suspen- missed for an offense sion or dismissal. cited in 1.4, Disciplin- Probation is not ary Offenses, can subject to appeal. only be readmitted to the College with the approval of the Vice President of Student Services. A sanction of dismissal can be appealed to the Dis- ciplinary Committee within 10 days.

20 1.6 The Discipline Committee Monetary When personal or a. There shall be a Discipline Commit- Reimbursement public property has tee with appellate jurisdiction over the been stolen, defaced, decisions in cases involving alleged disfigured, dam- violations by students of the College aged or destroyed, disciplinary offenses defined in section disciplinary action 1.4 if the decision imposed by the Vice will include an ap- President of Student Services comprises propriate monetary suspension or dismissal. reimbursement for compensatory dam- b. The Discipline Committee shall ages, in addition to have the authority to determine the any other sanctions issue of guilt in those cases appealed which might be to it (limited to cases of suspension imposed. This sanc- and dismissal). The Committee shall tion is not subject to convene promptly after receiving the appeal. written evidence and hear evidence and argument from the College’s representa- State of Condition in which tive and from the student or the student’s Emergency a clear and present representative. The student shall have danger exists with re- the opportunity to question witnesses or gard to the safety of other evidence. After receiving evidence persons or property and argument, the committee shall or when conditions render its decision promptly. are such as to justify a reasonable belief c. The Discipline Committee shall be that disruption is comprised of five faculty members; five likely to occur. additional members shall serve as alter- The President of the nates. The Chair of the Committee shall College, or the Presi- convene meetings of the Committee at dent’s designee, may such times and places as necessary to impose upon any carry out its duties. The Vice President person such tempo- of Student Services will furnish the Com- rary sanctions or take mittee members with pertinent informa- any other actions tion. All Committee members must be as are considered present to hear a case. In the event necessary to protect the full Committee cannot be convened members of the Col- within five days, the alternate members lege community or its will serve to ensure a timely hearing. property or to prevent disruption of the Col- d. Any member of the Discipline Com- lege. This sanction is mittee is obligated to withdraw from par- not subject to appeal. ticipation in a hearing when the member feels unable to hear the case fairly and objectively and to decide its outcome impartially on the basis of the evidence. Such a member will be replaced by an alternate

1.7 Appeals a. A student who is suspended or dis- missed by the Discipline Committee may appeal, in writing, to the President, within 10 days. The President shall uphold or reject the Discipline Committee’s deci- sion and so notify the Committee and the student, within 10 days.

21 b. A student who has been recom- 2.2 Right of Privacy mended for suspension or dismissal by 2.21 Person and Property the Discipline Committee may remain in A student shall be free from searches school, pending the outcome of his/her and seizures of possessions while on appeal, only upon the approval of the College property unless said search Vice President of Student Services. and seizure is conducted in accordance with state and federal laws. In cases of c. In cases of alleged discrimination or imminent danger or when there are harassment, a student whose complaint reasonable grounds upon which to be- has been found not to have merit may ap- lieve it is necessary to conduct a search peal, in writing, directly to the President immediately in order to protect life or who shall uphold or reject the appeal property, searches may be conducted and notify the student within 10 days. A in the presence of the Vice President of student, whose appeal was denied by the Student Services or another member of President, may appeal, in writing, to the the Vice President’s staff acting as the Board of Trustees in sufficient time for the Vice President’s authorized matter to be included on the agenda of representative. the next regular Board meeting following the President’s decision. The decision of 2.22 Disciplinary Records the Board shall be final. Disciplinary records and information maintained by the Vice President of Student Services are treated in a confi- ARTICLE II dential manner. Students have the right RIGHTS OF STUDENTS to view their disciplinary records; such records and the information contained 2.1 Right of Admission and Access therein will not be released except with 2.11 Admission Policy the written authorization of the student. The Victoria College is an open-admis- However, the Vice President of Student sion institution. An applicant for admis- Services may disclose the student’s sion shall not be discriminated against disciplinary record without the student’s because of race, color, creed, religion, consent if legal compulsion or the age, sex, marital status, beliefs, nation- safety of people or property is involved, al origin, disabling condition, Veteran’s or if the information is required by status or limited English proficiency. authorized College personnel for official Complete admission information can be use. In these circumstances, only the found in the Victoria College catalog. information pertinent to the inquiry may be revealed. The Vice President may 2.12 Financial Aid also act without the student’s consent An applicant for, or a recipient of, finan- to have a statement of suspension cial aid (including grants, loans, Work- or dismissal entered on the student’s Study, college employment, childcare academic record for the time that this assistance and scholarships) shall not disciplinary sanction would prohibit the be discriminated against on the basis of student from registering. Written notice race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, of this statement shall be sent to the marital status, beliefs, national origin, student. disabling condition, Veteran’s status or limited English proficiency. 2.23 Counseling Records A student’s test data and record in 2.13 Use of Facilities and Services Counseling Services shall be kept The Victoria College may delineate the confidential, except for use by College purpose for which students may use personnel in writing to have it revealed certain facilities and shall make them to a designated person or institution. available on a fair and equitable basis. Without such release, no information However, the College may restrict its will be revealed individual or to society, facilities and services when their use and such information will be limited to would interfere with normal College that which is directly pertinent to the operations. reduction of that danger. Test data will 22 be reported, in the aggregate, for the volved, or make a concerted effort to do purpose of institutional research, plan- so, and forward to them a copy of the ning and evaluation and for required subpoena by certified mail addressed federal and state reports. to their last known address. 2.24 Permanent Education Records 2.26 Directory Information Permanent education records of both The College will release the follow- credit and non-credit courses are main- ing items of directory information (as tained in the Admissions and Records defined by the Family Education Rights office. and Privacy Act) without the written The permanent record contains the consent of the student: following: • Name • Student’s name • Address • Social Security number • Telephone number • Address • Date of birth • Telephone number • Major • Gender • Dates of attendance • Date of birth • Degrees awarded • Mode of Admission • Full-time/part-time status • Placement test scores • Enrollment & withdrawal verifications • Academic work undertaken • Student classification • Grades and grade points earned • Most recent previous institution • Scholastic standing attended • Degrees and/or certificates awarded The College reserves the right, under Student records are strictly confidential. the Family Education Rights and Records are released only to individual Privacy Act, to publish this information students to whom they belong, to other and routinely furnishes it to loan agen- colleges and universities at the request cies, insurance companies, prospec- of the student or to legal entities under tive employers, family members, etc. a court-ordered subpoena. Student Students are responsible for informing records are accessible to counselors, the Admissions and Records Office in administrative staff and faculty for the writing if the above information is not to purpose of academic advising. It is the be released. policy of the Registrar to release 2.27 Nonacademic Information students’ telephone numbers upon re- Information about a student’s, or stu- quest, unless specifically instructed not dent organization’s, political or social to do so. The numbers are released to views or beliefs which faculty, staff or accommodate frequent requests by fac- administrators acquire in the course ulty and students; telephone numbers of their work, is to be kept confidential. are rarely requested from off-campus Students may waive the protection of individuals. Students who do not wish this right by granting express permis- to have their telephone numbers or sion to the relevant faculty, staff or address released under any circum- administrator. stances, may instruct the Registrar to flag their records accordingly. 2.28 Student Demographic & Education Data & Social Security Number 2.25 Subpoenaed Information Student demographic data and If presented with a subpoena to information about education, training produce information about specific stu- and employment will be organized by dents and/or campus organizations, the Social Security number. The College recipient shall immediately notify the will routinely compile reports based on Vice President of Student Services and student data for use in program plan- forward to that office a copy of the sub- ning and evaluation, and will furnish poena. The Vice President of Student required reports to the federal and state Services shall immediately notify the governments, all of which will be based student(s) or student organization(s) in- on aggregate data. No student will be 23 identified in any report by individual 2.5 Right of Student Access to Meetings Social Security number. Students have of Registered Student Organizations a right to request, in writing, that the The College affirms the right of all stu- information they are required to provide dents to attend meetings of registered to Victoria College be withheld from student organizations Exceptions to the statistical analysis described above the foregoing right include: Requests for Exemption from Statistical a. deliberations of election boards and analysis may be obtained from the Ad- selection committees. missions and Records Office and from b. discussions of hearings which might the Director of Institutional Research lead to the appointment, discipline or and Planning. dismissal of an individual employee, 2.29 Electronic Privacy members or student without restricting All technology related services are that employee’s, member’s or student’s treated confidentially. The College will right to a public hearing if requested. not disclose personal information to Meeting shall be defined as any gather- third parties unless required by law or ing of a quorum of the members, re- College policy. The College employs gardless of where the meeting is held, numerous measures to protect the se- whether a regular or special meeting, curity of electronic resources and user including any informational or casual accounts but does not guarantee such gathering held in anticipation of or in security. The College employs software conjunction with a regular or special programs which monitor network traffic, meeting. identify potential unauthorized access 2.6 Right of Peaceful Assembly and detect computer viruses and/or The Victoria College honors the right software that might damage College of free discussion and expression, computers or the network. Information peaceful picketing and demonstrations, obtained by the College is used only for and the right to petition and assemble the purpose of maintaining security and peacefully as long as no violation of performance of College networks and Section 1.4 occurs. computer systems. Personal informa- tion will not be released without student 2.7 Right to File a Grievance Based consent unless required by law or Col- Upon Denial of any Rights Outlined lege Policy. in the Victoria College Code of Stu- dent Conduct 2.3 Rights of the Accused Students who feel that their rights, as A student accused of a disciplinary outlined in any of the above-cited Sec- violation shall have the right to present tions, have been violated, have the right the student’s case to the Vice President to file a grievance in accordance with of Student Services and the right to the following procedure: appeal a sanction of suspension or • File a Student Complaint with the dismissal to the Discipline Committee Vice President of Student Services and the President. within 30 calendar days of the occur- rence of a violation. 2.4 Right of Free Expression • The Vice President of Student Ser- A student has the right to freedom of vices will investigate the complaint and expression, which includes the right take appropriate action. to picket or demonstrate for a cause, subject to the following conditions: • The student must act in an orderly and peaceful manner • The student must not, in any way, interfere with the proper functioning of the College • The student must not violate any item cited in Section 1.4, Disciplinary Offenses. 24 ARTICLE III tion of the required application form THE COLLEGE AS SUPERVISOR and compliance with the rules and additional criteria the Vice President OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS may set forth. Such criteria shall be 3.1 Supervision of Student established and published by the Vice Organizations President and made uniform for all The overall supervision of all student similar types of organizations. organizations shall be the responsibility a. Potential faculty advisors will be of the Vice President of Student Ser- invited to meet with the Student Life vices. The Director of Student Activities Committee to review the general shall have responsibility for the day-to- guidelines and expectations of the day supervision of Student Government College. and shall work closely with all faculty advisors to provide support for student b. All College clubs are required to organizations. Faculty advisors shall establish a constitution and bylaws have day-to-day responsibility for su- within a 30-day time period after pervision of their clubs or organizations. registration has been completed. Examples of existing club constitutions 3.2 Types of Organizations, Membership, will be provided for the benefit of new Registration and Advisors clubs and their advisors.

3.21 Types of Organizations 3.24 Fundraising and Fiscal Affairs a. Student Government Association 3.241 All student organization fundrais- b. Honor Societies ing activities must be approved by the c. Specialty or Discipline-Related faculty advisor(s) of the organization, by Clubs the Director of Student Activities and by the Vice President of Student Services. 3.22 Membership Such activities must be conducted in a. Membership in student organiza- compliance with all College policies tions shall be limited to students of the and regulations and the funds used in College. Organizations which admit accordance with generally accepted members who are not Victoria College principals of ethical use of public funds. students will be ineligible for College Funds may be used to support com- funds. munity services, charities and service b. Student organizations may involve projects deemed worthwhile by student students from other educational institu- organizations and College officials. tions to attend meetings as guests, with Funds may also be used to support the approval of the advisor. However, student travel and expenses associ- no Victoria College funds shall be ated with official club or organizational expended for the substantial benefit of obligations, as well as for limited social such guests. activities for the clubs, as deemed appropriate by the College advisor and 3.23 Registration in compliance with College policies Stu- dent organizations that wish to conduct 3.231 Any student organization which wish- fundraising activities should follow the es to use Victoria College’s name, facili- following procedures: ties or property, or to solicit thereon, must complete the student organization • Complete the Victoria College registration form available in the Office Student Organization Fundraising of the Director of Student Activities. Activity Permission Request Form and obtain the appropriate signatures. 3.232 The registration of any student orga- These forms may be obtained from the nization is at the discretion of the Vice Student Activities Office, club advisors President of Student Services and or downloaded from the Important review by the Student Life Committee Information channel on the Student and is dependent upon the comple- Services tab in the Pirate Portal 25 • Submit the approved form to the 3.3 Disciplinary Offenses of Student Director of Student Activities who will Organizations keep the original and return one copy to The actions listed below are punishable the club advisor(s). disciplinary offenses when committed by members of student organizations: A club whose fundraising activities re- • Knowingly electing, appointing or quest is denied, may appeal as outlined retaining as an officer or committee in Section 3.5. chairperson any student who is on aca-

demic probation, financially delinquent 3.25 Advisors to the College or under any disciplinary 3.251 Each student organization must sanction which prohibits the student have at least one faculty advisor who from holding office. will serve at his/her own request. The • Organizing, sponsoring, imple- Director of Student Activities will be the menting or conducting programs or advisor for Student Government. Advi- activities which are disorderly, which sors must be interested in the purposes are violations of College regulations or of the organization and be willing to law, or which contain lewd, indecent or assume the responsibilities cited below: obscene conduct or expression. • Give guidance and counsel to the of- ficers and members in carrying out the • Incurring financial obligations on purposes of the organization. behalf of the College. • Meet with the members of the organi- • Disciplinary offenses defined in zation at their regular meetings. Section 1.4 of the Student Code of Conduct. • Assume overall responsibility for day- to-day supervision and activities of the 3.4 Sanctions organization. The Vice President of Student Ser- • Ensure that activities of the organiza- vices may impose sanctions up to and tion adhere to all College policies and including refusal or cancellation of procedures. registration of a club or organization. In addition, students who commit offenses • Ensure the organization members otherwise punishable as outlined in adhere to all College policies and pro- this document will be held accountable cedures when engaged in organization and will be subject to the disciplinary and College related activities, whether procedures cited herein. on campus or off campus. • Ensure that organization mem- 3.5 Right of Appeal bers who do not comply with College Within 30 days of receipt of notice that policies who engage in organizational the Vice President of Student Services activity are subject to College disciplin- has refused or canceled the registration ary procedures as outlined in Article I of an organization, or has refused to of the Victoria College Code of Student authorize or has canceled a fundraising Conduct. event, the officers of the organization shall be given the right to appeal in writing to the College President. The President’s decision will be final.

26 ARTICLE IV STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL DELINQUENCY 4.1 Student Responsibility The College expects students to be financially responsible and not be delinquent in financial obligations to the College 4.11 Unmet Financial Obligations • Checks: A student who passes a worthless check to the College will be notified and given an opportunity to resolve the matter. If the obligation is not met by the date stipulated in the notification let- ter, the student will be withdrawn from classes and the check will be turned over to the District Attorney’s office. The student may be subject to disciplin- ary procedures as specified in Article I, Section 1.4e. Such violations will be subject to investigation by the Vice President of Student Services and sub- ject to sanctions as outlined in Article I, Section 1.5. In addition, the student may lose the privilege of paying by check for any College expense. • Installment Payments: A student who fails to make installment payments by the due dates specified on the installment contract will be assigned a $25.00 late fee for each missed pay- ment date. A delinquent account may be referred to a collection agency, in which event the student will be respon- sible for attorney’s fees, court costs and any other associated fees. A hold will be placed on the records on any student who is delinquent in their financial obligations to the College. Future credit and non-credit registration and official transcript requests will be denied until all obligations are met.

27 PART II – STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES REGARDING ACADEMIC RELATIONSHIPS ARTICLE V academic advising and determination STUDENT RIGHTS of financial aid eligibility. The release of student records for off-campus use, 5.1 Information About Course Content such as the release of transcripts, may Students have the right to be informed occur only with the student’s knowledge in reasonable detail, in writing, at the and consent, where required by law or first or second class meeting with the subpoenae duces tecum. assigned instructor about the general nature of the course and to expect the DISPOSITION OF CASES INVOLVING course to correspond generally to its ALLEGED VIOLATIONS OF THE official description. ACADEMIC RIGHTS OF STUDENTS 6.1 Academic Appeal Process 5.2 Information About Course Grading The student must go to the instructor Criteria or staff members where the alleged Students have the right to be informed, problem originated. An attempt will be in writing, at the first or second class made to resolve the matter fairly and meeting with the assigned instructor informally at this level. The conference about the criteria to be used in evaluat- must take place within 10 instructional ing student performance and to expect weekdays of the incident which gener- the criteria to be followed. If factors, ated the complaint. such as absences or late work, will be considered in determining grades, stu- If the student is not satisfied with the dents should be so informed in writing outcome of the informal conference, he/ at the first or second class meeting. she may fill out the Instructional Com- plaint/Appeal Form. This form must be 5.3 Contrary Opinion submitted to the appropriate Dean as Students have the right to express soon as possible and no later than ten dissenting views with the information days after the first class day of the next or views presented in the classroom semester. Students shall specify which without being penalized. of the five rights have been violated. A copy of the form available at www.victo- 5.4 Academic Evaluation riacollege.edu/studenthandbook. Students have the right to receive Responsibility of Student grades based upon a fair and just evaluation of performance as measured Step 1: Within 10 days, student by the standards announced by the must attempt to resolve instructor at the first or second class the matter with the in- meeting. Grades determined by any- structor or staff member. thing other than the instructor’s good- If resolved, no further faith judgment based on such stan- action is needed. dards are improper. Among irrelevant Step 2: Matter Unresolved considerations are race, color, religion, Student files Instructional age, sex, disabling condition, parental Complaint/Appeal Form, status, marital status, national origin, no later than 10 days political affiliation or activities outside after the first class day of the classroom which are unrelated to the next semester, with course work. the appropriate Dean. Students must specify 5.5 Academic Records which of the 5 academic Students have the right to confidential rights have been violated. academic records. Such records are released only for use by College per- sonnel for required purposes such as 28 • Forced withdrawal from the course in Step 3: Dean attempts to resolve which the offense occurred. matter with student and faculty or staff member. • Forced withdrawal from the program Matter Resolved – of the division in which the offense No further action occurred. Matter Unresolved – • Suspension: forced withdrawal from Dean refers matter to the College for a specified period of the Vice President of time. Instruction Step 4: Vice President of Instruc- • Dismissal: permanent forced with- tion reviews appeal. drawal from the College. Final Decision DISPOSITION FOR CASES OF ALLEGED ACADEMIC OFFENSES 6.2 Student Rights During the Appeals 8.1 Responsibilities of the Instructor Process Within seven working days of finding a Students shall have the right of class student guilty of cheating or plagiarism, attendance and participation during an instructor may choose to do one or the consideration of any appeal only more of the following: when approved by the Vice President of • Assign any grade to the paper or Instruction. examination involved and so notify the student in writing. ACADEMIC OFFENSES 7.1 Plagiarism • Assign any grade for the course in All academic work, written or otherwise, which the offending paper of examina- submitted by a student to an instructor tion was submitted and so notify the or other academic supervisor, is expect- student in writing. ed to be the result of the student’s own thought, research or self-expression. In • Recommend that the student be cases in which students feel uncertain dropped from the course in which the about a question of plagiarism, they offense occurred. Such a recommen- are obliged to consult the instructor on dation shall be made to the Division the matter prior to submitting any work. Dean. If agreement occurs, the Dean When students submit work purported shall so recommend to the Vice Presi- to be their own, but which in any way dent of Instruction and send copies to borrows ideas, organization, wording the instructor and the student. or anything else from another source • Recommend that the student be without appropriate acknowledgment, dropped from a program of a division. they are guilty of plagiarism. Such a recommendation shall be made 7.2 Cheating to the Division Dean and to the Division Cheating includes, but is not limited to, Dean of the student’s program, if dif- students wrongfully giving, taking or ferent. If agreement occurs, the Deans presenting any information or material shall so recommend to the Vice Presi- with the intent of aiding themselves or dent of Instruction and send copies to others with any academic work. the instructor and the student. • Recommend suspension or dismissal 7.3 Sanctions for Academic Offenses from the College. Such a recommen- The following sanctions may be given to dation shall be made to the Division students who are found guilty of com- Dean. If agreement occurs, the Dean mitting an academic offense: shall so recommend to the Vice Presi- • Any grade on the paper or examina- dent of Instruction and send copies to tion in which the offense occurs. the instructor and the student. • Any grade for the course in which the offending paper or examination was submitted. 29 8.2 Responsibility of the Vice President 8.4 Student Appeals Committee for of Instruction Academic Matters The Vice President of Instruction shall Responsibilities consider recommendations for dropping Upon receipt of the student appeal, the the student from the class or program Chair of the Student Appeals Commit- of a division or suspension or dismissal tee for Academic Matters shall invite of the student from the College. The the instructor, Division Dean and Vice Vice President shall notify the student President of Instruction to file a state- of the charge and the evidence against ment with the Committee. The com- the student and solicit the student’s mittee will then convene, review the response. The Vice President shall appeal and any statements and then render a decision and report in writing decide by majority vote whether to hear the decision to the Dean of the instruc- the case or not. The Committee must tor’s Division, the instructor and the hear all cases in which a student has student. If the Vice President concurs appealed suspension or dismissal. on a recommendation of suspension If the Committee hears the case be- or expulsion from the College, the Vice cause of some question about the fact President shall take the necessary of the student’s guilt, it shall convene action. promptly after receiving the completed Instructional Complaint/Appeal Form. 8.3 Rights of the Student The student may appeal either the fact In the case of dropping the student of guilt or the severity of the sanction if from a course or program, if the Com- the sanction is suspension or dismissal mittee hears the case because of an by following the following process: appeal of the severity of the sanction, it shall recommend an appropriate sanc- Reduction in Within 30 days, tion to the Vice President of Instruction. Grade student must com- plete the Instruc- When the Committee hears a case tional Complaint/ in which the instructor and the Vice Appeal Form and President have recommended suspen- file it with the sion or expulsion, it may concur with Division Dean in the instructor and the Vice President which the offense and recommend that the sanction be occurred. imposed. If the Committee does not agree that such sanction be imposed, it Withdrawal Within 10 calendar shall return its decision and its recom- from Course, days of notifica- mendation of appropriate sanction to Suspension tion of forced the Vice President, who shall consult or Dismissal withdrawal from with the Division Dean and the faculty the course or divi- member as to the appropriate sanction. sion, the student must complete the Composition Instructional Com- The Appeals Committee shall consist plaint/Appeal Form of six members: two full-time students and file it with the elected by the Student Government Division Dean in Association and four full-time faculty which the offense members, elected at large. The Chair occurred. of the Committee must be a faculty member and will be appointed by the The student shall have the right of class Committee. In addition, there shall be attendance and participation during two student alternates and two faculty the consideration of any appeal only alternates who shall be selected on the when approved by the Vice President of same basis as the regular members. Instruction.

30 All members of the Student Appeals Committee for Academic Matters and/ or their alternates shall be expected to meet within 48 hours after notice from the Chair.

31 PART III – COLLEGE POLICIES AFFECTING STUDENTS ARTICLE VI 9.24 Since electronic learning is based VICTORIA COLLEGE upon the integrity and authenticity of information, it shall be each computer COMPUTER USE POLICIES AND user’s personal responsibility to be RELATED REGULATIONS aware of the potential for, and possible effects of, manipulating electronic 9.1 Computer Use Rights information; to understand the fungible nature of electronic information; and 9.11 A computer user’s access to comput- to verify the integrity and authenticity, ing and information resources shall and assure the security of information not be denied or removed without just compiled or used. cause. 9.25 Each computer user, as a member of 9.12 The right to access includes the the electronic community of learners, right to appropriate training and tools is responsible to all other users in that required to effect access, within the community to respect and value the constraints of the resources available rights of privacy for all; to recognize at the College. and respect the diversity of the popula- tion and opinion in the community; to 9.13 All computer users shall have the behave ethically; and to comply with right to be informed about personal legal restrictions regarding the use of information that is being and has been information resources. collected about them and have the right to review and correct that information. 9.26 Each user, as a member of the Personal information about a user shall electronic community of learners, is not be used for other than the express responsible to the community as a purpose of its collection. whole to understand what information technology resources are available, 9.14 The constitutional concept of freedom to recognize that the members of the of speech applies to computer users. community share them and to refrain 9.15 All computer users have owner- from acts that waste resources or ship rights over their own intellectual prevent others from using them. works. 9.3 Victoria College Rights 9.2 Computer Users’ Responsibilities to Abide by Victoria College Computer 9.31 Victoria College has the right to Use Policies and Related restrict computer access exclusively to Regulations faculty, staff and students who agree to abide by Victoria College Computer 9.21 It shall be each computer user’s re- Use Policies and all related regulations, sponsibility to abide by Victoria College which are subject to change without Computer Use Policies and all related notice. regulations. 9.32 Victoria College has the right to ac- 9.22 It shall be each computer user’s per- cess all information stored on College sonal responsibility to actively pursue computers. needed resources, to recognize when information is needed and to be able 9.33 Victoria College has ownership rights to find, evaluate and effectively use over the intellectual works it creates. information. 9.34 Victoria College has the authority to 9.23 It shall be each computer user’s allocate resources in accordance with personal responsibility to recognize its institutional mission. and honor the intellectual property of others. 9.35 Victoria College has the authority to restrict Internet access provided through the College’s equipment.

32 9.36 Victoria College has the right to fully 9.51 The student is the only person who enforce all disciplinary procedures, may use resources (User ID and as outlined in Part I, against students Passwords) that have been assigned who violate Victoria College Computer to him/her. Use Policies and/or related regulations. 9.52 Students are not to share passwords Victoria College reserves the right to with others. If a student suspects that report computer law violations to law someone may have discovered their enforcement officials. password, it is the responsibility of the student to change the password 9.4 Victoria College Responsibilities immediately. Students are encouraged 9.41 Victoria College has the responsibil- to select a password that is uncommon ity to provide all computer users with and are urged to change passwords legally acquired computer resources frequently. If others gain access to (hardware, software, networks, da- students’ accounts, it will be assumed tabases, etc.) in all instances where that it is done with permission from the access to, or use of, the resources is student. an integral part of active participation in 9.53 Students will be held responsible for the electronic community. all activity for the resources assigned to them and for destructive or illegal 9.42 Victoria College has the responsibility activities conducted on their account. to develop, implement and maintain security procedures to insure the integ- 9.54 Students are not to transmit computer rity of individual and institutional files. viruses to College computers. The College shall not be responsible 9.55 Students are not to modify any for loss of data or interference with files College-owned computer hardware resulting from its efforts to maintain or software or to load any software on the privacy and security of the College College-owned computer equipment. computer facilities. The only exception to these rules is for 9.43 Victoria College has the responsibility classes that specifically require such to treat electronically stored information activities and, if required, are to be as confidential. The institution shall conducted only with the express prior treat all personal files as confidential, knowledge and permission of the class examining or disclosing the contents instructor. only when authorized by the owner of 9.56 Students cannot be paid, or otherwise the information, approved by the appro- commercially profit, from the use of any priate institutional official, or required College-provided computing resource by local, state or federal law and/or or from any output produced using it. regulation. Students may not: 9.44 Victoria College has the responsibility • Post chain letters from which they to train and support faculty, staff and hope to profit. students to effectively use information • Run a business on College-owned technology. Training includes skills computers. to use the resources, to be aware of the existence of data repositories 9.57 Students are not to use any College- and techniques for using them and to provided resources to do something understand the ethical and legal uses illegal, threatening or deliberately of the resources. destructive; not even as a joke. Victoria College vigorously enforces its com- 9.5 Regulations Governing Student puter use regulations. Use of Victoria College Computing • ignorance is no excuse. Refer to Resources http://www.utexas.edu/policies/com- Students are required to agree to abide putercrimes.html for information about by the following rules and regulations computer crimes and the law. governing computing resources at Victoria College: 33 • Students will not be exempt from the ARTICLE VII law because they are “just a student” or STUDENT ROLE AND RESPON- they were “playing around.” SIBILITY IN INSTITUTIONAL • Students who are also employed by DECISION-MAKING the College may be disciplined both as a student and as an employee. 10.1 Statement of Student Role and Responsibility in Institutional 9.58 Students should be civil and not send Decision-Making rude or harassing email. If someone The Student Government is the official asks that email not be sent to him/her, liaison between the student body and students should comply immediately. the College administration and serves Failure to do so could result in a com- as the mechanism for student input into plaint being filed. institutional decision making. The Stu- dent Government comprises represen- 9.59 Students who feel they are being tatives and officers elected at-large and harassed through email, should file a representatives elected from official complaint the same as for in-person campus organizations. harassment. It is the responsibility of the Student Government to represent the en- 9.60 Students should use resources appro- tire student body, to give thoughtful priately. Messages should only be sent consideration to student concerns, to recipients who are affected by the to present recommendations to the information contained within. Examples Administrative Council for consideration of inappropriate use of resources and to communicate decisions affecting include: students to the entire student body. • Sending a message at random to Recommendations may be presented a large number of news-groups or for Administrative Council consideration recipients at the request of a simple majority of the Student Government. Recom- • Attempting to inconvenience some- mendations shall be in written form and one by sending them a large number of shall be presented to the Administrative messages Council through the Vice President of Student Services. 9.61 Students should always be careful of The Administrative Council shall copyright infringement, even if the work consider all recommendations and does not contain a copyright notice. inform the Student Government of its decision(s). The Administrative Council 9.62 Students should never try to cir- may confer with members of the cumvent log-in procedures on any Student Government prior to making a computer system or otherwise gain decision. The Administrative Council access where they are not allowed. may, from time to time, request that the The College tracks all computer usage Student Government consider various and evidence of any of these infrac- matters deemed by the Council to tions is documented in the College’s require review by the student body. computer security system. Offenses will be investigated by the Vice Presi- dent of Student Services. Possible sanctions include Warning, Reprimand, Probation, Suspension, Dismissal and Monetary Reimbursement. Offenses may also result in criminal charges.

34 ARTICLE VIII DISPOSITION FOR CASES OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT & COMPLAINTS OF DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT DISCRIMINATION POLICY 11.2 Complaint Procedure 11.1 Freedom from Discrimination and Students who feel they have been Harassment discriminated against based on one All students have the right to a learn- or more of the above-cited factors are ing environment free from discrimina- entitled to file a complaint as outlined in tion and harassment based on sex, the following procedure: race, color, national origin, age, • Contact Mary Smith, Affirmative religion, disabling condition, Veteran’s Action Officer, in the Administration status or limited English proficiency. Building, Suite 100. 11.12 Sexual Harassment • Each complaint will be investigated Sexual harassment is a type of sexual as promptly and thoroughly as possible. discrimination prohibited by Title VII of • If the investigation indicates that dis- the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title IX crimination has occurred, prompt and of the Education Amendments of 1972 appropriate action will be taken to end and is, therefore, prohibited at The the discrimination. Victoria College. By definition, sexual harassment • In the case of allegations of discrimi- involves the unwelcome introduction of nation involving disabling conditions, sexual activities or comments into the the monitor for College compliance with workplace or classroom. Unwelcome the Americans with Disabilities Act will sexual advances and other verbal or participate in all proceedings. physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: Complaints by Students against Students • submission to the conduct becomes • If the complaint is found to have a term or condition of employment or merit, the Affirmative Action Officer academic achievement. will have the authority to recommend • submission to, or rejection of, the or impose sanctions as described in conduct is used as a basis for employ- Section 1.5. ment or academic decisions regarding • If the complaint is found not to have the individual, or merit, the Affirmative Action Officer • the conduct unreasonably interferes may dismiss the case. with the individual’s work performance • Either party may appeal the findings or creates an intimidating, hostile or of the Affirmative Action Officer to the offensive working or academic environ- Discipline Committee. ment. Victims of sexual harassment can include students and employees of Complaints by Students Against Staff or both sexes. Faculty Members 11.13 Harassment • If the complaint is found to have mer- Harassment is defined as extreme or it, appropriate disciplinary action will be outrageous acts or communications recommended by College authorities. that are intended to harass, intimidate • The accused may appeal this finding or humiliate students or employees on by following the procedures outlined account of sex, age, religion, disabling in the College Grievance Policies for condition, Veteran’s status, race, color Faculty and Staff, located in the faculty or national origin and that cause them and staff handbook. The handbook to suffer severe emotional distress or can be viewed by visiting the website at impede the learning process. Harass- http://www.victoriacollege.edu/employ- ment is expressly prohibited and any eehandbook student or employee who engages in such conduct is subject to disciplinary action. 35 Freedom from Retaliation or Reprisal ARTICLE X All students have the right to make good EQUAL OPPORTUNITY POLICY faith complaints of discrimination or harass- 12.1 Equal Opportunity Policy ment without fear of retaliation or reprisal. Victoria College does not discriminate Any student, who feels that they are being against any person in employment, subjected to any form of retaliation or repri- promotion or educational opportunity sal because of their complaint, is entitled because of race, color, creed, religion, to file a complaint with the Affirmative -Ac age, sex, marital status, beliefs, tion Officer as outlined above. While The national origin, disabling condition, Victoria College is committed to providing a veteran’s status or limited English pro- learning environment free from discrimina- ficiency. The College subscribes to the tion or harassment, the College recognizes provisions of Title IX of the Educational that false accusations may harm the party Amendment with respect to equal op- accused. Accordingly, any person who portunities for men and women in its knowingly makes a false complaint of dis- educational program and encourages crimination or harassment, will be subject to students to investigate non-traditional disciplinary action. careers. ARTICLE IX ARTICLE XI CONVICTED SEX OFFENDER POLICY ON DRUG AND ALCO- POLICY HOL ABUSE The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure 13.1 Policy on Drug and Alcohol Abuse Article 62.153 requires each person who is The Drug-Free Schools and Communi- required to register as a sex offender, and ties Act of 1986 (amended in 1989) who intends to attend classes at the Victoria requires the adoption and implementa- College to register with the College’s Police tion of a program to prevent illicit use Department at least seven (7) days prior to of drugs and the abuse of alcohol by reporting to any College location. students and employees. Victoria Col- In addition, College policy also requires that lege is committed to maintaining a safe, any person who is required to register as healthy, lawful and productive working a sex offender or who otherwise has any and educational environment for all restrictions that would prohibit the person employees and students. Studies have from being in proximity to individuals under shown that substance abuse increases the age of 18 must, prior to registering for potential for accidents, absenteeism, any class, meet with the College’s Vice tardiness, unsatisfactory performance, President of Student Services to discuss all inefficiency, poor morale and damage applicable limitations. A person seeking to to the College’s reputation. It is the be enrolled as a student must first be ap- intent of Victoria College to provide an proved by the Student Services Department environment conducive to study and before completing the registration process. work through upgrading the mental The College reserves the right to remove and physical health of the total College from any class any such person who fails community. to meet with the Vice President of Student 13.12 Definition and Prohibition Services prior to registering for class. An “illegal drug” is any drug or con- Persons covered by this policy must meet trolled substance which is: with the Vice President of Student Services • Not legally obtainable or prior to each time the person registers for classes at the College (e.g., once per • Is legally obtainable but was not semester). legally obtained The term “illegal drug” includes all illegal drugs, dangerous drugs and controlled substances defined and listed in Articles 4476-15 (Texas Controlled Substances Act) Vernon’s Texas Civil Statutes. The College 36 prohibits the unlawful manufacture, records provided the College by an sale, distribution, dispensation, posses- employee or student concerning a sion, use or consumption of controlled personal diagnosis or treatment will be substances, inhalants and/or alcohol in kept confidential. the workplace or educational environ- 13.16 Condition of Employment and ment. An individual need not be legally Enrollment intoxicated to be considered “under the As a condition of employment and/ influence” of a controlled substance or or enrollment with the College, or as alcohol. a condition of receiving or continuing 13.13 Education to receive a federal grant or any other The Victoria College will include the form of financial assistance, each per- subject of illegal drug and alcohol son affected shall abide by the terms abuse in New Student Orientation and of the requirements and prohibitions in employee training programs. The set out in this policy and shall notify comprehensive information may be in the College President, in writing, of the form of pamphlets, in-house news- any criminal drug statute conviction for letters, speakers, audio-visuals, etc. a violation occurring in the workplace The Victoria College avails itself of the or educational environment no later opportunity for educational programs than five (5) days after such conviction. through several local agencies. Within thirty (30) days of receiving no- tice from an employee, grant recipient, 13.14 Scope or otherwise receiving actual notice of This policy applies to all students and a conviction for criminal drug statute employees of The Victoria College, as violation occurring in the workplace or well as College visitors, contractors educational environment, the College and all other persons occupying space shall either: in and around office buildings, facilities or grounds over which it has custody Take appropriate action against the and control including, but not limited to, employee or student to and possibly rentals and leasing of auditorium and including termination or require the classroom spaces. employee or student to participate sat- isfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or 13.15 Information Services rehabilitation program. The Victoria College recognizes that

alcoholism and drug dependency are 13.17 Notification “illnesses” and will provide information Each employee, to include full-time and to any employee or student seeking part-time, and all students, shall be assistance when behavioral problems given a copy, or provided access to a begin to affect an employee’s work or web version, of the college’s policy on a student’s academic performance and drugs and alcohol. these appear to be the result of drug or alcohol abuse. The individual may 13.18 Biennial Review be referred to Counseling Services The College will review this policy’s for information on drug and alcohol effectiveness and implement changes dependency and/or to local community that are needed to enforce such poli- professionals and service agencies. cies. Employees may be allowed to use accumulated leave for the purpose of treatment or rehabilitation. Benefits eligible employees may contact the Human Resources Department for information on the behavioral health coverage that is included in the em- ployee health plan. The employee or student shall be responsible for any cost and/or fees incurred for profes- sional services. Information or medical 37 ARTICLE XII 14.14 Philosophy POLICY ON COMMUNICABLE The College’s decisions concerning a person who has a communicable dis- DISEASE, INCLUDING AIDS ease shall be based upon current and 14.1 Policy on Communicable Disease, well-informed medical judgment which Including AIDS includes the nature of the disease, 14.11 Purpose risk of transmission to others, symp- The 71st Texas Legislature determined toms and special circumstances of the that workplace guidelines are neces- person and balancing identifiable risks sary to assure that the rights and and available alternatives to respond to privileges of individuals infected with a student or employee with a communi- the Human Immunodeficiency Virus cable disease. (HIV) are protected. The Board of Victoria College acknowledges the seri- 14.15 Nondiscrimination ous threat to our community and nation Students: No student will be posed by the AIDS epidemic. This required to cease policy and other procedures developed attending Victoria by the College shall emphasize educat- College or participat- ing employees and students concern- ing in the College ing AIDS and managing each case functions solely on of AIDS individually with sensitivity, the basis of diagnosis flexibility and concern for the individual of a communicable as well as for employees and students. disease. If a review In addition, this policy defines and ad- of the facts demon- dresses other communicable diseases strates that a student which from time to time arise in the col- is unable to perform lege among students and employees. as required or pres- 14.12 Scope ents health risk to This policy and related administrative himself/herself or the procedures apply to all employees and College community, students of the College. a decision shall be made regarding the 14.13 Definition student’s attendance In this policy and its procedures, com- at the College. municable disease means an illness due to an infectious agent or its toxic Employees: An employee who has products that arises through transmis- a communicable dis- sion of that agent or its products from a ease will be treated in reservoir to a susceptible host and as the same manner as further defined in the Communicable other employees who Disease Prevention and Control Act, have other illnesses Article 4419b-1 V.A.T.S. Communicable or injuries. If it is diseases include, but are not limited to, determined that an mumps, rubella, influenza, mononucle- employee is unable osis, chicken pox, viral hepatitis-A, viral to perform assigned hepatitis-B, human immunodeficiency duties, or a signifi- virus (HIV infection), AIDS, AIDS- cant portion thereof, Related Complex, sexually transmitted or poses a threat to diseases and infectious meningitis. the health or safety In this policy and procedures, HIV of himself/herself or infection includes AIDS, AIDS-Related others, a decision Complex and a positive test for the shall be made regard- antibody to human immunodeficiency ing the employee’s virus. presence at work and employment status.

38 14.16 Reasonable Accommodation ARTICLE XIII The College shall offer reasonable TOBACCO USE POLICY accommodation to both students and 15.1 Tobacco Use Policy employees who are infected with a The Tobacco Use Policy is currently communicable disease. Generally, under revision. Please check the Web reasonable accommodation will not site for current information. require expenditure of additional funds. 14.17 Confidentiality ARTICLE XIV Based on the Federal Privacy Act, the TRAFFIC POLICY Texas Commission on Human Rights 16.1 Parking Policy Act and the Texas Communicable Dis- Parking is provided free to Victoria ease Prevention and Control Act, any College students and visitors. Victoria medical documentation or information College faculty and staff will be issued provided by an HIV-infected student or employee parking decals. State issued employee to personnel and/or supervi- parking permits are required to park in sors must be considered confidential handicapped parking spaces. Student and private information. As such, em- decals are not required. ployers are forbidden by law to disclose this information without the student or 16.11 Employee Decals employee’s knowledge and consent, All vehicles parked on campus by staff except as provided by law. and faculty must be registered with (Communicable Disease Prevention VC College Central. Vehicles are not and Control Act, Section 9.03, as considered registered until decals are amended by SB 959). properly displayed. The decal must be located at one of the following 14.18 Education locations: The College shall develop and maintain • Back window on driver’s side a comprehensive educational program, • Back bumper on driver’s side speakers, pamphlets, in-house news- • Affixed on a clear plastic rearview letters and audio-visuals regarding HIV mirror hanger. Hangers are sold in the infection for students and employees. Victoria College bookstore. The program shall address current medical opinions concerning the nature 16.12 Parking Violations and Fees of HIV infection and its symptoms, Parking in Faculty/Staff $25 methods of transmission, types of Reserved Space behavior which increases the risk of transmission of the disease, preventa- Parking in Handicapped $50 tive measures for avoiding infection Space and, most importantly, responsible and Parking in Fire Lane $50 humane treatment of persons infected with the disease. Parking in Visitor’s Space $25 All students receive an educational Parking on Median $25 pamphlet about the methods of trans- mission and prevention of HIV infection Parking on Grass $25 at freshman orientation. Additional Blocking Traffic Lane $25 copies may be obtained in Counseling Services. Other (Miscellaneous various violations not listed The curricula of Nursing and other Al- lied Health programs, as well as social work degree programs, will include information about the methods of trans- mission and prevention. Also, the cur- ricula of these same programs will give attention to the physical, emotional and psychological stress associated with care of patients with terminal illnesses. 39 16.13 Payment of Vehicle Violation Tickets ARTICLE XV All Victoria College vehicle violation SECURITY POLICY tickets must be paid at VC College 1.71 Security Policy Central during regular office hours or mailed to: 17.11 Victoria College employs licensed The Victoria College peace officers and non-licensed securi- College Central – Parking ty officers to enforce penal statutes and 2200 East Red River laws, to assist students and to enforce Victoria, TX 77901 College regulations. Campus police of- ficers have full authority of state police 16.14 Failure to Pay Vehicle Violation officers as granted by Texas Education Tickets Code, Chapter 51. Police and security A hold will be placed on the records personnel have the authority to enforce of any student with unpaid parking all traffic policies and to assist the Vice violations. Future registration and/or President of Student Services and transcript requests will be denied until other officers of the College with the the violation(s) is paid. investigation of alleged violations of College policy cited in Article I. 16.15 Appeals of Vehicle Violations Vehicle violation appeals may be made 17.12 Victoria College Campus Police by completing an appeal form. Appeal and Security personnel make every forms are located at College Central attempt to safeguard students and and in the Student Activities Office. A their property on the College campus. Vehicle Violation Appeals Committee Students should not leave valuables in will review the appeal and determine their vehicles, in the Sports Center or the outcome. No appeal will be con- anywhere out of their control. sidered until the ticket is paid. If the The College is not responsible for violation is overturned by the Appeals theft of student property. Although Committee, the fine payment will be police and security officers may assist refunded to the student. persons in need of help, students must 16.16 Student Notification of Vehicle remember that they have the primary Regulations responsibility for their own safety and Students are notified in writing of security. vehicle regulations at the time of regis- tration and are responsible for adhering ARTICLE XVI to these regulations. Failure to have ATTENDANCE POLICY knowledge of the regulations will not be 18.1 Attendance Policy considered a valid appeal for a vehicle violation. 18.11 The College encourages all students to attend class. Faculty members are Excessive vehicle violations, regardless of not obligated to provide opportuni- paid status, will result in disciplinary action ties for students to make up missed under the authority of the College Discipline assignments and tests as a result of a System, Article I. student’s absence from class. 18.12 If a student stops attending class, it is the student’s responsibility to with- draw from the class. If a student does not attend class and does not withdraw from the class, the student will receive a grade of F in the class.

40 18.14 Policy Regarding Absences for ARTICLE XVII Military Service FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND • Pursuant to Section 51.9111 of the Texas Education Code, students who ASSEMBLY POLICY are called to active military service and The Victoria College honors the rights are unable to attend classes or other of free discussion and expression, required activities (i.e. examinations) peaceful picketing and demonstrations, because of such active service, will be and the right to petition and assemble excused for the absences or failure to peacefully, as long as no violation of engage in the required activities. How- the Code of Student Conduct Section ever, the maximum period for which a 1.4 occurs. student may be excused shall be no Students planning such assemblies more than 25% (twenty-five percent) on the College campus must seek of the total number of class meetings approval one week (7 days) in advance or the contact-hour equivalent (not from the Student Activities and Student including the final examination period) Center Director. Picketing is not permit- for the specific course or courses in ted inside campus buildings. Sufficient which the student is currently enrolled notice is necessary to allow the Direc- at the beginning of the period of active tor to identify a place and time, and to military service. coordinate the assembly, if necessary, • A student will not be excused from with the Campus Police. Information classes or required activities under this detailing the planned activities must policy unless the student notifies the be provided to the Student Center Victoria College and his instructor of and Student Activities Director prior the active duty and provides a copy of to approval of the assembly. Victoria the orders. The coursework completed College retains the right to establish by a student prior to being called to reasonable time, place and manner active duty will be retained. regulations and the right to exclude activities that violate reasonable cam- • Upon return from active military ser- pus rules or substantially interfere with vice, students excused from absences the opportunity of students to obtain and activities under this policy will be an education. The sponsoring student given a copy of the course syllabus or organization or group assumes all other instructional plan and shall be responsibility for compliance with local, provided a reasonable time to complete state and federal laws and with College an assignment or take an examination. policies. Due to prior scheduled book- The time to complete an assignment or ings, there are no guarantees on space take an examination will be determined and time availability. by the student’s instructor. However, the period of time provided should be Any request for an exception to, or at least a period twice the duration of modification of, this policy shall be their leave (i.e. on leave of one week, directed to the office of the Vice Presi- student will be given two weeks to dent of Student Services. complete the assignment). A student who is excused will not be penalized for the absence as long as the required coursework is completed in the reason- able time determined by the instructor. • Students who feel that this policy has been violated should immediately contact the division dean for the course or courses in which they are enrolled. Alleged violations will be resolved in accordance with Part II of the Victoria College Code of Student Conduct.

41 ARTICLE XVIII ARTICLE XIX POSTING POLICY CHILDREN ON CAMPUS POLICY Students, student organizations, 19.1 Children on Campus Policy faculty and staff requesting posting of 19.11 Unsupervised children are not per- information (i.e. announcements, flyers, mitted on The Victoria College campus. posters, etc.) must obtain permission Parents may not bring their children from the Student Activities and Student to class, tutoring, the Testing Center Center Director located in the Student and/or study areas. Children may not Center. Information will not be posted be left unattended while parents are without prior approval by the Market- in class. Children are welcome to ac- ing and Communications Department. company their parents to campus while Permissible postings will be stamped the parents conduct College business, with an expiration date in the desig- such as admission or financial aid nated locations by Student Center staff. related matters. However, parents are The earliest they will be posted is 14 always responsible to ensure that their days prior to the event. children are supervised. The following areas are specifically designated for posting and advertising purposes: ARTICLE XX • Bulletin Boards EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Academic Building, Administration POLICY Building, Allied Health, Continuing Education, Fine Arts, Health Science 20.1 Emergency Procedures Policy Center, Johnson Hall, Language Build- These safety and security policies and ing, Sports Center, Student Center, procedures have been established in Technology Center, VC/UHV Library an attempt to protect lives and property and William Wood Building during times of emergencies. These • Public Bulletin Board policies and procedures are to be designated location for non-college followed in the event of an emergency related postings, located in the Student situation. Center Potential emergency situations include: Posting Guidelines: • fire • Postings must be placed only in ap- • bomb threat proved areas by Student Center staff. • armed individual on campus • severe weather alert • Postings may not be attached to any • injury or illness vehicle parked on campus. All college employees and students are • Improperly posted signs will be re- vital to the success of an emergency moved and discarded without notice. plan. The policies and procedures • A maximum of one sign per an- have been distributed to all college nouncement/event/topic, etc. per employees and students in an effort designated location. to stress the importance of campus- wide participation in following the steps • Translations must accompany signs involved in any given emergency. written in languages other than English. Campus Police are responsible for pro- • Material must not be obscene, libel- viding security for all buildings on The ous or directed to incite or produce Victoria College campus, to patrol park- imminent lawless action or is likely to ing areas and to provide assistance invite or produce such action. to anyone on campus in need of help. Although police and security officers will strive to assist persons in need of help, employees and students must remember that they have the primary responsibility for their own safety and 42 security. Victoria College employees The decision to close will be commu- and students are advised to call 911 in nicated to the local and surrounding the event of a major emergency. This counties’ television and radio stations will bring campus police, EMS, fire as follows: department official and local police as Victoria KAVU needed. Local police provide support Texas Radio for Campus Police and Security per- KXTN sonnel. The caller should specify the KVIC 95 nature of the emergency, the location KPLV and other information that may be ap- KAMG plicable. The caller should then notify KIXS Campus Security of the situation by K107 calling 361-220-1391, as well as one of KHMC Radio the Vice Presidents. KVLT K-Lite

Radio Severe Weather KZ105 An emergency decision to dismiss classes or close the campus will be Bay City KVLG made by the President when weather KBUK or other conditions pose a potentially Corpus Christi KVRT Public serious threat to the health or safety of Radio the College’s students and employees. The President will make the decision LaGrange KOIX after consultation with appropriate Gonzales KCTI College personnel and representatives of public health or safety agencies. In Sequin KWED most situations, the College will close if Victoria Independent School District Fire and the University of Houston-Victoria In the event of a fire, the following close. The decision to close the cam- steps should be taken: pus means that all scheduled classes • Notify the fire department by dialing and activities (both day and night) are 911 or, if using a campus phone, dial cancelled. 9-911. • Notify Campus Police, the President or one of the Vice Presidents. • Use the fire alarm in the room, if available. • Be available to advise the fire depart- ment of the type of, and location of, the fire. • Follow the exit signs posted in each classroom for best possible routes for leaving the building.

Bomb Threat In the event that a bomb threat is received, the College will be evacuated immediately using the best possible routes for leaving the buildings. Stu- dents and employees should take all personal belongings, such as coats and backpacks.

43 Armed Individual on Campus Location of First Aid Kits Anyone having positive knowledge that First Aid kits containing Band-Aids, an armed person is present on campus large and small bandages, tape, gloves should immediately call 911 to alert and a one-way valve equipped CPR police of the situation. Be prepared to mask and CPR instruction card are provide the following information: available at the following locations: • Location of the armed person Administration Building • How the person is armed, i.e. rifle, College Central pistol, bomb, knife Academic Building • Purpose, if known, of the armed Room 107 & Room 210 person Allied Health Building • A complete description of the Entire Building individual Calhoun County Center • Whether or not any shots have been Main Office fired Fine Arts Building • Your name and where you can be Room 114 located if police need additional infor- Health Sciences Center mation Biology & Chemistry Labs After notifying the police, notify Cam- Gonzales Center pus Police, the President and one of Biology & Chemistry Labs the Vice Presidents. Johnson Hall Injury or Illness Room 100 General guidelines: • Students who sustain injuries or Language Building experience illness are encouraged to Suite 100 contact their personal physician for Library follow-up care. 1st floor Circulation Desk • If a student witnesses an acci- Maintenance Building dent, they should contact a College Work Area employee immediately who, in turn, will contact security or one of the Vice Sports Center Presidents to assist in implementing Gym Storage Area the appropriate procedures. Student Center • Students are asked not to provide Room 120A transportation for injured or ill persons. However, if students choose to do so, Technology Center they do so at their own risk and liability. Room 107 • Contact Student Services to make Wood Vocational Building arrangements for a family member to Room 119 be notified to transport them for medi- cal attention. • Students should not hesitate to call EMS in the event of a serious illness or accident.

44 Eye Wash Equipment ARTICLE XXI Locations for eye wash equipment are: IMMUNIZATION POLICY Allied Health 21.1 Immunization Policy Rooms 120 & 121 21.11 The Board of the Texas Department Calhoun County Center of Health and Victoria College strongly Wet Lab – Room 17 recommend that College students receive adequate immunization prior Gonzales Center to admission for diphtheria, rubeola, Biology & Chemistry Labs rubella, mumps and tetanus. Health Sciences Center 21.12 Students enrolled in Allied Health Biology & Chemistry Labs programs are required by state law to Wood Vocational Building be immunized against these diseases. PTEC & Welding Labs

Safety Showers Safety showers are located in the fol- lowing places: Allied Health Rooms 120 & 121 Calhoun County Center Wet Lab – Room 17 Gonzales Center Biology & Chemistry Labs Health Sciences Center Biology & Chemistry Labs Wood Vocational Building PTEC Lab

45 ARTICLE XXII of Instruction with a copy of the driver’s TRAVEL POLICY license and a proof of liability insurance 22.1 Travel Policy prior to transporting any students. A driver of a commercial motor vehicle 22.11 Personal Liability Insurance must have a commercial driver’s Requirement license. The Victoria College recognizes that employees and students occasionally c. The driver may not transport stu- use personal vehicles while engaged in dents unless he or she has an accept- College-related activities on campus able driving record. and in the local area. All persons who use their vehicles while conducting 22.22 Other Drivers for College-Related College business or while traveling to Activities any college-sponsored activity or any A driver who is transporting one or registered student organization activity more students to an activity or event shall, prior to engaging in the above that is located more than 25 miles described activities: from campus and that is organized or • carry appropriate automobile sponsored either by the College or by insurance. a student organization registered at the institution must comply with the follow- • provide the Vice President of Ser- ing requirements: vices or the Vice President of Instruc- a. The driver must hold a valid driver’s tion with a copy of their driver’s license license for the vehicle to be driven and and proof of liability insurance. must provide the Vice President of Student Services or the Vice President The College does not provide insur- of Instruction with a copy of the driver’s ance for student use of personal au- license and a proof of liability insurance tomobiles. All drivers and passengers prior to transporting any students. A must abide by the safety standards driver of a commercial motor vehicle listed below must have a commercial driver’s license. 22.12 Reimbursement for Costs of Using Personal Vehicles Mileage costs re- b. The driver may not transport stu- lated to any significant use of personal dents unless he or she has an accept- vehicles to conduct College-related able driving record. business may be reimbursed upon approval of appropriate divisions or 22.23 Students as Passengers in Motor departments. Vehicles Involved in College-Related Activities 22.2 Student Travel a. Purchase of Personal Injury and Personal Effects Insurance 22.21 Students as Drivers for College- Where rental vehicles are used to Related Activities transport students, the personal injury A driver who is transporting one or and personal effects insurance must be more students of The Victoria College purchased as a part of the vehicle to an activity or event that is located rental agreement regardless of the more than 25 miles from campus and mode of transportation. For student that is organized or sponsored either drivers or rental vehicles, all of the by the College or by a student organi- above requirements related to student zation, must comply with the following drivers apply. requirements: a. The student driver must be currently b. Student Consent and Release Form employed by the Victoria College. Each student who travels by motor ve- hicle (or any form of transportation) to b. The driver must hold a valid driver’s participate in a College-related activity, license for the vehicle to be driven and including, but not limited to, academi- must provide the Vice President of cally related field trips or courses, com- Student Services or the Vice President petitions or contests, or non-academic 46 activities, must execute a copy of the Consent and Release Form. c. Student Passenger Responsibilities Student passengers are responsible for their own safety. Student passengers should arrange transportation that is consistent with their personal expecta- tions regarding safety. At any point during their transport, either to or from a College-related activity or registered student organization activity, student passengers should exercise their own personal judgment regarding the safety of their transport before riding in any vehicle.

22.24 Safety Standards for All Drivers a. All drivers who are transporting one or more enrolled students, either to or from any College-related activ- ity, including any registered student organization activity, shall ensure that the number of passengers does not exceed the designated capacity of the vehicle and that each passenger is secured by a safety belt. In addition, all relevant laws will be adhered to during the duration of the trip. b. Drivers of one or more students presently enrolled at the Victoria College who are traveling to or from a College-related activity, including a registered student organization activity, that is located more than 25 miles from the Victoria College campus, shall not drive fatigued or under the influence of any medication or other substance that would impair the driver’s ability to drive safely. c. All drivers are encouraged to read the tips for safe driving, which can be obtained from the Director of Student Activities or the Vice President of Stu- dent Services at the Victoria College.

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