Registration Policy 3.17
By wrkstudy1
January 17, 2019
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Registration for Academic Courses

To register means to complete the registration form and pay tuition and fees. This should be done before attending class unless special permission has been granted to the student. Special permission to attend a class without registering may be granted only by an appropriate authority and the Registrar is to be notified in advance in writing by the authorizing person.

Note: Students are not officially admitted to a class unless they are properly registered. Full tuition payment is due at the time of registration, unless prior arrangement to a commitment to pay plan is approved by the Business Office. Student must also complete an Application for Admission and participate in the placement evaluation (exception may be granted) before their first registration will be processed. The registration period for all courses shall be determined by the Registrar.

Classes beginning and/or ending at different times of semester

Classes that begin and/or end at different times throughout the semester will have different refund and withdrawal dates. These dates are available in the Registration and Records Office. Some students receiving federal financial aid will have refund adjustments determined by the government. This information is available in the Financial Aid Office.

Registration for Lifelong Learning, Business Customized Training Courses, and short Seminars

Students may register using a variety of methods designed for ease of registration and student convenience. Students may register by phone, by mail or in person.


July 1992, revised 9/14/05, reviewed 9/17/14

Placement Evaluation Policy 3.02
By wrkstudy1
January 17, 2019
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Most students need to take a course placement evaluation prior to enrollment. Besides the College’s test, other valid instruments may be used. Placement scores are essential for proper advising and course placement decisions. Glen Oaks Community College reserves the right to require special courses, when it is in the best interest of the student’s academic success. The course placement exam will help identify student strengths and weaknesses before beginning classes at the College.
PLACEMENT EVALUATION

 
A student is required to take the placement evaluation, unless:

  1. The student has documented a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.

    2. OR

  2. The student is enrolling only in a course for which he or she has met the prerequisite by transferring math credit taken within five years from another college.

    3. OR

  3. The student is enrolling only in a course for which he or she has met the prerequisite by transferring English credit taken within ten years from another college.

    4. OR

  4. The student is enrolling only in courses with no prerequisites.

    5. OR

  5. The student is taking courses from Continuing Education or the Center for Business Services.

    6. OR

  6. The student has received the minimum ACT or SAT1 scores listed below.
American College Testing (ACT) College Entrance Examination Board (SAT1)
English 19 or greater Verbal 450 or greater
Reading 19 or greater Mathematics 560 or greater
Mathematics 23 or greater    

Additional assessments may be required by the Academic Division offering the degree or certificate.

PLACEMENT EVALUATION
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Adopted by Board of Trustees May 8, 2002, revised 9/14/05, reviewed 9/17/14

Certificate/Degree Requirements Policy 3.31
By wrkstudy1
January 17, 2019
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Current requirements for graduation with an associate degree are as follows:

Degree RequirementsCertificate Requirements

  1. A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. (C); specific programs require a higher GPA
  2. A minimum of 60 credits for an associate degree in the required areas.
  3. A minimum of 15 credits must be earned at Glen Oaks Community College.

  1. A cumulative grade point average of at least a 2.0.
  2. Satisfy the credit requirements of the certificate.
  3. A minimum of 15 credits must be earned at Glen Oaks Community College.
Any substitution of certificate/degree requirements must be approved by the Dean of Academics & Extended Learning.


Adopted by Board of Trustees 1/13/93, reviewed 9/14/05, revised 9/17/14, revised credits 2017.
(Position titles updated 07/02, 9/17/14)

Catalog Affecting Credits and Graduation Policy 3.32
By wrkstudy1
January 17, 2019
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The date of the catalog by which credits are checked for graduation may not be more than four years earlier than the date of the issuance of the degree. A student may not be checked by a catalog dated earlier than the time of entrance. Students may not use a combination of catalogs to graduate, but must follow the degree requirements in one catalog. If a student’s work is interrupted by military service, an extension of time of not more than six years will be allowed equal to the period of interruption.

Second DegreesSecond Certificates

Second degrees will be awarded based on the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment in the new program and cannot be extended beyond four years. For a second associate degree, a student must complete a minimum of 15 additional credit hours beyond the first degree at Glen Oaks and achieve a 2.0 grade point average for the additional credits. It is required that these additional credits be planned and approved in writing through a counselor. The written approval of the additional 15 credits must be forwarded to the Registrar’s Office in order to be considered for the awarding of the degree.

Second or additional certificates will be evaluated based on the catalog in effect at the completion of the second certificate.


Adopted by Board of Trustees 1/13/93, revised 8/10/94, revised 9/14/05, reviewed 9/17/14

Attendance Policy 3.21
By wrkstudy1
January 17, 2019
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Regular attendance is encouraged in each course for which a student is enrolled.

Suggested procedure:

  1. Faculty keep records of student’s class attendance.
  2. When a student’s absence record equals that of the number of hours in a course, the faculty member should request that a formal notice be sent from the Dean of Academics & Extended Learning advising the student about this matter.
  3. If there is no change in the student’s behavior, and if the individual misses 15 percent or more of the class time in any given course, the faculty member teaching that course has the option of dropping the student from the class.

Note: See 3.21A for Nursing Student Attendance Policy


July 1992, revised 9/14/05, 9/17/14
(Position titles updated 07/02, 9/17/14)

Sex/Gender-Based Discrimination and Harassment Policy 3.95 (Title IX)
By wrkstudy1
January 17, 2019
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Introduction
Glen Oaks Community College (“Glen Oaks” or “the College”) believes that every student and staff member, regardless of their gender, is entitled to equal educational opportunity and a safe environment in which to learn and work. This means that all members of the college community have the right to be free from all forms of sex/gender discrimination, harassment and retaliation. The term “sexual harassment” in this Policy includes sexual violence, dating and domestic violence, stalking, and any other form of discrimination based upon sex that would violate Title IX of the Civil Rights Act.This Policy is intended to: define what qualifies as sexual discrimination, harassment and retaliation under Title IX; establish a mechanism for responding to complaints, including supportive measures that may be available to all involved parties; and outline the remedial efforts the College may take to end any sex discrimination, harassment or retaliation that has occurred, prevent its recurrence and address any continuing effects on an affected person.
Section 1: Scope and Jurisdiction of Policy

The College’s Sex/Gender-Based Discrimination and Harassment Policy prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex in all education programs and activities that Glen Oaks operates, as required by Title IX and consistent with the College’s own mission and values. For purposes of this Policy, the College’s “education programs and activities” include locations, events or circumstances over which Glen Oaks exercised substantial control over the person(s) accused of sexual harassment and the context in which the sexual harassment occurred; it also includes any building owned or controlled by Glen Oaks. This Policy also prohibits retaliation against a person who makes a good faith complaint of sex discrimination or harassment under this Policy. Alleged sexual harassment that occurred outside of the College’s education program or activity cannot be resolved through the grievance procedures described in this Policy, but may be addressed through the College’s Code of Conduct.All reports of sexual discrimination, harassment or retaliation will be handled by one of the College’s Title IX Coordinators:

Tonya Howden
Title IX Coordinator
Student Services, A53
62249 Shimmel Rd.
Centreville, MI 49032
thowden@glenoaks.edu
269-294-4230
Jamie Yesh
Title IX Coordinator
Student Services, A53
62249 Shimmel Rd.
Centreville, MI 49032
jyesh@glenoaks.edu
269-294-4229
Candy Bohacz
Title IX Coordinator
Student Services, A53
62249 Shimmel Rd.
Centreville, MI 49032
cbohacz@glenoaks.edu
269-294-4232

Complaints under this Policy may be made to any of the Title IX Coordinators. The Title IX Coordinator in the Student Services Office will take the lead role in administering this Policy, but may involve the Title IX Coordinator(s) in the Administrative Office on complaints that involve employees or if the involvement of a different Title IX Coordinator is otherwise appropriate. In the event an incident involves alleged misconduct by a Title IX Coordinator, reports should be made to another Title IX Coordinator or the President of the College.Individuals experiencing harassment or discrimination also have the right to file a formal complaint with government authorities:

Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-1100
Customer Service Hotline #: (800) 421-3481
TDD#: (877) 521-2172
Email: OCR@ed.gov
Web: http://www.ed.gov/ocr
U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division
Educational Opportunities Section, PHB
Washington, D.C. 20530
Telephone: (202) 514-4092 or
1-877-292-3804 (toll-free)
Section 2: Definitions
Advisor:
A person chosen by a party or appointed by the institution to accompany the party to meetings related to the grievance process, to advise the party on that process, and to conduct cross-examination for that party at the hearing as needed. This person may be, but need not be, an attorney.
Complainant:
The individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sexual discrimination or harassment.
Formal Complaint:
A document filed by a complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging sexual harassment against a respondent and requesting that the College investigate the allegation of sexual harassment.
Respondent:
The individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that would constitute sexual harassment or discrimination.
Sex Discrimination:
Unequal treatment based on sex with respect to an individual’s access to or participation in the College’s education programs or activities, as prohibited by Title IX.
Sexual Harassment:
“Sexual harassment” is conduct on the basis of sex where at least one of the following occurs:

  • An employee of the College makes providing an aid, benefit or service of the College conditional upon an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct;
  • There is unwelcome conduct on the basis of sex that a reasonable person would deem so severe, pervasive and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the College’s education program or activity; or
  • An individual is subjected to “sexual assault,” as defined by the Clery Act, which is classified as a forcible or non-forcible sex offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. That is further defined as:
    • Sex Offenses, Forcible: Any sexual act directed against another person without the consent of the Complainant, including instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent.
      • Forcible Rape: Penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the Complainant.
      • Forcible Sodomy:Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person forcibly, and/or against that person’s will (non-consensually), or not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent because of age or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
      • Sexual Assault with an Object: The use of an object or instrument to penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of another person, forcibly, and/or against that person’s will (non-consensually) or not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent because of age or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
      • Forcible Fondling: The touching of the private body parts of another person (buttocks, groin, breasts) for the purpose of sexual gratification, forcibly and/or against that person’s will (non-consensually) or not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent because of age or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
    • Sex Offenses, Non-forcible:
      • Incest: Non-forcible sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by Michigan law. Statutory Rape is Non-forcible sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent of Michigan.
  • An individual is subjected to “dating violence,” defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(10) as:
    • Violence on the basis of sex committed by a person who is in or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the Complainant.
    • The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the Complainant’s statement and with consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
    • For the purposes of this definition—
      • Dating violence includes, but is not limited to emotional, psychological, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse.
      • Dating violence does not include acts covered under the definition of domestic violence.
  • An individual is subjected to “domestic violence,” defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8) as:
    • Violence on the basis of sex committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the Complainant, by a person with whom the Complainant shares a child in common, or by a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the Complainant as a spouse or intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the Complainant under the domestic or family violence laws of Michigan, or by any other person against an adult or youth Complainant who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of Michigan.
    • To categorize an incident as Domestic Violence, the relationship between the Respondent and the Complainant must be more than just two people living together as roommates. The people cohabitating must be current or former spouses or have an intimate relationship.
  • An individual is subjected to “stalking,” defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(30) as:
    • Engaging in a course of conduct on the basis of sex directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety, or the safety of others; or suffer substantial emotional distress.
    • For the purposes of this definition:
      • Course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the Respondent directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property.
      • Reasonable person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and with similar identities to the complainant.
      • Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may but does not necessarily require medical or other professional treatment or counseling
Consent:
Clear, knowing and voluntary agreement. Silence, in and of itself, cannot be interpreted as consent. Consent can be given by words or actions, as long as those words or actions create mutually understandable, clear permission regarding willingness to engage in (and the conditions of) sexual activity.

  • Consent to any one form of sexual activity cannot automatically imply consent to any other forms of sexual activity.
  • Previous relationships or prior consent cannot imply consent to future sexual acts.
  • In order to give effective consent, one must be of legal age and have the mental/physical capacity to consent. A person may be unable to consent due to consumption of drugs or alcohol.
Gender Identity:
Gender identity is the gender of which a person identifies which may not correspond with the gender assigned at birth.
Sexual orientation:
Sexual identity in relation to the gender to which a person is attracted.

*This policy is applicable regardless of the sexual orientation and/or gender identity of the individual engaging in sexual activity.

Supportive measures:
Supportive measures are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available and without fee or charge to the complainant or respondent. Supportive measures may be provided before or after a formal complaint has been filed or where no formal complaint has been filed. They are designed to restore or preserve equal access to the College’s education program or activity without unreasonably burdening the other party and include measures designed to protect the safety of the parties or campus environment or to deter sexual harassment. Examples of supportive measures may include counseling, extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments, modifications of work or class schedules, campus escort services, mutual restrictions on contact between parties, changes in work or housing locations, leaves of absence, increased security and monitoring of certain areas of campus and other similar measures. These measures will be kept confidential, to the extent maintaining that confidentiality does not impair the College’s ability to provide the supportive measures.
Retaliation:
The act of intimidating, threatening, coercing or discriminating against any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX, or because the individual made a report or complaint, testified, assisted or participated (or refused to participate) in any manner in an investigation, proceeding or hearing related to Title IX or this Policy. Intimidation, threats, coercion or discrimination – including making charges against an individual for code of conduct violations that do not involve sex discrimination or sexual harassment, but arise out of the same facts or circumstances as a report of complaint of sex discrimination or a report or formal complaint of sexual harassment for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX – constitutes retaliation.

The exercise of rights protected under the First Amendment does not constitute retaliation. Nor is it retaliation to charge an individual with a Code of Conduct violation if the College finds that the individual made a materially false statement in bad faith in the course of a grievance proceeding under this Policy, provided that a determination regarding responsibility, standing alone, is not sufficient to conclude that any party made a materially false statement in bad faith. Retaliation will not be tolerated and may result in severe sanctions, including discipline, suspension, expulsion, termination of employment or revocation of tenure, or an additional charge.

Section 3: Reporting Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, or Retaliation
All college employees (faculty, staff, administrators) are expected to immediately report actual or suspected harassment, discrimination or retaliation to a Title IX Coordinator, though there are some limited exceptions. In order to make informed choices, it is important to be aware of confidentiality and mandatory reporting requirements when consulting campus resources. On campus, licensed counselors can maintain confidentiality – meaning they are not required to report actual or suspected harassment discrimination or retaliation to appropriate university officials – thereby offering options and advice without any obligation to inform an outside agency or individual unless a victim has requested information to be shared. Other resources exist for a victim to report crimes and policy violations and these resources will take action when an incident is reported to them. The following are two reporting options:

Confidential Reporting Options
If a reporting party would like the details of an incident be kept confidential, they should speak with a licensed counselor, members of the clergy and chaplains, or off-campus rape crisis resources. The college recommends contacting Domestic and Sexual Abuse Services at 1-800-828-2023 (crisis line). Those who are able to maintain confidentiality will do so except in extreme cases of immediate threat or danger or in the abuse of a minor.

If you are unsure of someone’s duties and ability to maintain your privacy, ask them before you talk to them. They will be able to inform you of their duties, and help you make decisions about who can best assist you.

Personally identifiable information will be shared in the event that the incident reveals a need to protect you or other members of the community. If personally identifiable information is shared, it will only be shared as necessary with as few people as possible, and all efforts will be made to protect your privacy.

Formal reporting options
Reporting parties are encouraged to file a formal complaint of sex/gender-based harassment, discrimination or retaliation at www.glenoaks.edu by clicking on the Report a Concern tab on the home page. This report submits to the College’s Title IX Coordinator, who will review the allegations made and determine if they fall within the scope of this Policy or would constitute some other Code of Conduct violation. Reporting parties may also contact a Title IX Coordinator (as described above), or another school administrator, with whom the reporting party feels comfortable to make a complaint. Students and employees have the right to have incidents of sexual harassment, discrimination or retaliation investigated and properly resolved through a grievance process. Information will be shared as necessary with the Complainant, Respondent, and appropriate college administrators who play a role in the grievance process.

If a victim wishes to remain anonymous, does not wish for an investigation to take place, or does not want a formal resolution to be pursued, the victim may make such a request to the Title IX Coordinator, who will evaluate that request in light of the duty to ensure the safety of the campus and comply with federal law. In cases indicating pattern, predation, threat, weapons and/or violence, the College will likely be unable to honor a request that no investigation take place, but will maintain confidentiality to the extent possible. In cases where the victim requests confidentiality and the circumstances allow the College to honor that request, the College will offer supportive measures, but will not otherwise pursue formal action. A complainant/reporting party has the right, and can expect, to have reports taken seriously by the College, and when formally reported, to have those incidents investigated and properly resolved through these procedures.

Section 4: College Reporting Obligations
Federal Statistical Reporting Obligations
Certain campus officials have a duty to report sexual misconduct for federal statistical reporting purposes (Clery Act). All personally identifiable information is kept confidential, but statistical information must be passed along to campus law enforcement regarding the type of incident and its general location for publication in the annual Campus Security Report. This report helps to provide the community with a clear picture of the extent and nature of campus crime, to ensure greater community safety. Mandated federal reporters include: student/conduct affairs, campus law enforcement, local police, coaches, student activities staff, human resources staff, academic advisors, advisors to student organizations and any other official with significant responsibility for student and campus activities. The information to be shared includes the date, the location of the incident using Clery location categories and the Clery crime category. This reporting protects the identity of the victim and may be done anonymously.

Federal Timely Warning Reporting Obligations
Victims of sexual misconduct should also be aware that college administrators must issue immediate timely warnings for incidents reported to them that pose a substantial threat of bodily harm or danger to any member of the campus community. The College will make every effort to ensure that a victim’s name and other identifying information is not disclosed, while still providing enough information for community members to make safety decisions in light of the danger. The reporters for timely warning purposes are exactly the same as detailed in the above paragraph.

Section 5: Grievance Process for Sex Discrimination
Any student or staff member who believes that they have been subjected to (or witnessed) sex discrimination in any program or activity of the College should report that concern at www.glenoaks.edu by clicking on the Report a Concern tab on the home page. This report goes to the College’s Title IX Coordinator, who will review the allegations made and determine if they fall within the scope of this Policy or would constitute some other Code of Conduct violation. Reporting parties may also contact a Title IX Coordinator (as described above) in person, my mail, by email or by using the contact information for the Title IX Coordinator described above. If the concern involves a Title IX Coordinator and you do not feel comfortable reporting to one of the other Title IX Coordinators, a report may be made to the President of the College.

Within five (5) business days of receiving a complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether any supportive measures are necessary, work on implementing those supportive measures, and initiate an investigation. The investigation, which will be conducted by the Title IX Coordinator or his/her designee, will include interviews of witnesses deemed necessary by the investigator as well as review of relevant evidence. Absent unusual circumstances (e.g., unavailability of witnesses), the investigation will be completed within 60 business days. At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will prepare a report that summarizes the factual evidence gathered and makes a determination of whether there is sufficient evidence to conclude– by a preponderance of evidence (i.e. “more likely than not”) – that sex discrimination occurred in one of the College’s programs or activities.

If the Title IX Coordinator did not act as the investigator, the investigator will provide a copy of the Report to the Title IX Coordinator and the parties. Within five (5) business days of receiving the report, the Title IX Coordinator (if not the investigator) will adopt, modify or reject the investigator’s conclusions and provide notice to the parties of that decision. The Title IX Coordinator will also determine what remedial actions (if any) may be necessary to end any sex discrimination that occurred, prevent its recurrence and redress any continuing effects of the discrimination.

Both parties will have the right to file a written appeal of the Title IX Coordinator’s decision to the President of the College. An appeal must be submitted, in writing, to the Title IX Coordinator within five (5) business days after the date of the Title IX Coordinator’s report or notification. The decision of the President is final.

Retaliation against a person for making a good faith complaint of sex discrimination is strictly prohibited. Any complainant who believes that he/she has been retaliated against for making a complaint of sex discrimination under this Policy should notify the Title IX Coordinator and that complaint will be handled according to the grievance procedures provided in this Section.

Section 6: Grievance Process for Sexual Harassment

A formal complaint of sexual harassment may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator in person, by mail, by email or by using the contact information for the Title IX Coordinator described above, but the College strongly encourages submission of reports through the Report a Concern option at www.glenoaks.edu. The Title IX Coordinator reserves the right to file a formal complaint should the complainant decline to file a formal complaint. The Title IX Coordinators are the school officials charged with authority to institute corrective measures for violation of this Policy, but all College employees are obligated to report incidents of sexual harassment of which they become aware, unless they have a recognized confidentiality privilege, such as serving as a licensed counselor for the College. Further, students and guests who have observed or been made aware of sexual harassment are encouraged to report such incidents.

The formal complaint should clearly and concisely describe the conduct that the complainant believes constitutes sexual harassment; the identities of the parties involved in the incident, if known; the date and location of the incident, if known; and the desired remedy sought. The formal complaint should contain the name and contact information for the complainant if available. Any supporting documentation and evidence should be referenced within the body of the formal complaint. Additionally, the complainant should submit any supporting materials as quickly as is practicable.

Part I: Actions upon Receipt of a Formal ComplaintPart II: Formal Investigation Process and Protections Part III: Investigation Meeting DetailsPart IV: Investigation Summary Report Part V: Informal ResolutionPart VI: HearingPart VII: SanctioningPart VIII: Appeal and Final Outcome
Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will:

  1. Initiate the investigation process by reviewing the allegations contained in the formal complaint. The formal complaint will be dismissed for lack for jurisdiction if the conduct alleged (1) would not constitute sexual harassment, as defined by Title IX regulations and described in this Policy, even if proved; (2) did not occur in the College’s education program or activity; or (3) did not occur against a person in the United States. The Title IX Coordinator will, however, consider whether the alleged conduct may violate the College’s Code of Conduct, and if it may, refer the complaint for handling under the Code of Conduct.
  2. Review if any immediate steps need to be taken for the safety of any student or other individual arising from the report of sexual harassment. If emergency removal is necessary due to an immediate threat to physical health or safety, the Title IX Coordinator will provide respondent(s) with notice of the decision to remove respondent(s) from campus and the opportunity to challenge the decision immediately following the removal.
  3. Provide a Notice of Allegation to the parties of:
    1. The College’s grievance process, including the informal resolution process;
    2. The sexual harassment allegations, including the identities of the parties involved, if known; the conduct alleged to be sexual harassment; and the date and location of the incident, if known. If, during the course of the investigation, the College decides to investigate additional allegations that were not included in this initial notice, the College will provide notice of those additional allegations to the parties.
    3. The fact that the respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination of responsibility will be made at the conclusion of the grievance process;
    4. The parties’ right to have an advisor of their choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney and who will be permitted to inspect and review evidence obtained as part of the investigation that is directly related to the allegations made in the formal complaint;
    5. The provisions in the College’s Code of Conduct that prohibits making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process.
  4. Provide supportive measures, as needed, to both the complainant and respondent.
  5. Assign an investigator to the case
    1. The investigator may be one or more individuals. If there is more than one investigator, they shall be present at all meetings. The assigned investigator(s) will have received all requisite training and will be free of bias and conflict of interest.
  6. Monitor the investigation’s progression and completion.
Within five (5) business days of the College’s receipt of a formal complaint, the investigator will initiate an investigation. The investigator will ensure that the burden of proof and gathering of evidence rests on the College, not the parties, understanding that the College cannot access, consider, disclose or otherwise use a party’s treatment records without that party’s voluntary, written consent.

Each of the parties will have an equal opportunity to present evidence and witnesses, including fact and expert witnesses. The investigator will not restrict the ability of either party to discuss the allegations under investigation or their ability to gather and present relevant evidence.

The investigator will conduct interviews (and follow-up interviews, as needed) with the parties and relevant witnesses. Prior to any investigative interview or other meeting where a party is invited or expected to attend, the investigator will provide advance, written notice of the date, time, location, participants and purpose of the meeting, with sufficient time for the party to prepare to participate.

Absent unusual circumstances (e.g, school closure, unavailability of witnesses, delay caused by criminal investigation), the investigation will be completed within 60 business days. Any time the general timeframe for resolution outlined in this Policy will be delayed, the College will provide written notice to the parties of the delay, the cause of the delay, and the anticipated time needed as a result of the delay.

  1. Each meeting will be held privately and closed to the public. At no time during the investigation will the respondent and the complainant be in the same room.
  2. These meetings are entirely administrative in nature and are not considered legal proceedings.
  3. The parties will be allowed an advisor of their choice to be present during all administrative meetings and hearings.
    1. The complainant and respondent must select an advisor of their choice, which, at their own expense, may include an attorney.
      1. If either party does not have an advisor, the College will provide one at the request of the student at no cost to the involved party.
      2. All advisors provided by the college are employees who are trained to serve in this function. The college will not provide legal counsel for the student.
      3. If an involved party is a minor, a parent/guardian, as well as an advisor, may attend all meetings.
    2. During investigative meetings, the advisor may only speak with their party in a way that does not disrupt the meeting. At no time will they be allowed to speak on behalf of the party unless deemed necessary or appropriate by the Investigator.
At the conclusion of the formal investigation, the investigator will complete an investigation summary report. Prior to completion of the report, the investigator will send each party and his/her advisor (by electronic format or hard copy) a copy of the evidence obtained during the investigation that directly relates to the allegations in the formal complaint, regardless of the source of that evidence or whether the investigator intends to rely upon it. The parties will be given at least 10 days to submit a written response, which the investigator will consider when completing the investigation report.

The investigation summary report, which will fairly summarize the evidence, will be provided to the complainant, respondent, and advisors at least 10 days prior to the live hearing. Both parties will have the opportunity to review that report and respond in writing.

At least 10 days after the investigation summary report was distributed to the parties, the investigator will submit the report (as well as the parties’ responses to the report, if any) to the Hearing Chair.

As part of the College’s formal grievance procedure, at any time after a formal complaint has been filed, the parties may agree to participate in an informal resolution process. Through that informal resolution process, the College would be authorized to facilitate a mediation or other informal resolution between the parties that would not involve a full investigation and adjudication. Informal resolution is only permitted where the College:

  1. Provides a written Notice of Informal Resolution to the parties of (1) the allegations of the formal complaint, (2) the requirements of the informal process (including that a party may withdraw from the informal process at any time, but once the parties have agreed to a resolution, the parties may be precluded from resuming the formal complaint process – i.e., the full investigation and adjudication – based on the same allegations); and (3) any consequences that would result from participation in the informal resolution process, including that records may be maintained or shared;
  2. Obtains both parties’ voluntary, written consent to the informal resolution process;

Informal resolution may not be used to resolve complaints alleging that an employee sexually harassed a student. In cases where informal resolution is permitted, it will be strictly voluntary, and will not be required of any party as a condition of enrollment or continued enrollment; employment or continued employment or any other right.

For formal complaints, unless resolved through the informal resolution process, a live hearing will be conducted by a Decision-maker (or Decision-making Panel) before a determination of responsibility is made. The hearing may be conducted by a sole Decision-Maker or by a Decision-making panel, at the Title IX Coordinator’s discretion. If there is a Panel, the Title IX Coordinator will select a Hearing Officer who will serve as the Chair of the Decision-making Panel. The Hearing Officer will manage the hearing and make evidentiary rulings.

At the live hearing, each party’s advisor will have the opportunity to ask the party questions relevant to the allegations of the formal complaint. Questions about a complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant, unless those questions or evidence: (1) are offered to prove that someone other than the respondent committed the conduct alleged by complainant; or (2) concern specific incidents of complainant’s prior sexual behavior with respect to respondent and are offered to prove consent. Cross examination of parties and witnesses will be conducted directly, orally and in real time, but a party or witness will not be required to answer any such question until the Hearing Officer has considered the question and deemed it relevant. If a question is deemed irrelevant, the Hearing Officer will explain why. A party may not directly cross-examine another party or witness.

Although the hearing will be conducted in a live setting and in real time, at the request of a party, the parties will be located in separate rooms with technology enabling the Decision-maker(s) and parties to simultaneously observe (through sight and sound) the witness answering questions. The College may also, in its discretion, conduct the live hearing virtually, with technology enabling participants to simultaneously see and hear each other. All live hearings – whether conducted with participants in the same geographic location or virtually – will be recorded audiovisually or transcribed. That recording or transcript will be available to parties for inspection and review.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the Decision Maker (or Panel) will deliberate and determine if the respondent is responsible for the alleged violation, using the preponderance of evidence (“more likely than not”) standard. In making this determination, the Decision-maker (or Panel) may consider statements made by parties and witnesses during the investigation, electronic exchanges between parties leading up to the alleged sexual harassment, and relevant statements about the alleged sexual harassment, regardless of whether the parties or witnesses submit to cross examination at the live hearing. The Decision-maker (or Panel) may also consider police reports, Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner documents, medical reports, and other documents even if those documents contain statements of a party or witness who is not cross-examined at the live hearing. The Decision-maker (or Panel) will not, however, make an inference about responsibility based solely on a party’s or witness’s absence or refusal to testify at the hearing. In other words, the Decision-maker (or Panel) will not assume that a respondent sexually harassed the complainant solely because the respondent refused to testify at the hearing; nor will the Decision-maker (or Panel) assume that the respondent did not sexually harass the complainant solely because the complainant refused to be cross-examined.

After reaching a determination of responsibility, the Decision Maker (or Panel) will simultaneously issue to both parties a written determination that:

  1. Identifies the allegations potentially constituting sexual harassment under this Policy;
  2. Describes the procedural steps taken by the College throughout the grievance process;
  3. Provides findings of fact supporting the determination;
  4. Provides conclusions regarding the application of the College’s policy to the facts;
  5. States the determination as to each allegation as well as the rationale for that determination; and
  6. Explains the College’s appeal procedures and bases for appeal.
Once the determination of responsibility is made, if party has been found responsible for violating this Policy, the Title IX Coordinator will implement appropriate remedies to end the harassment, prevent its recurrence and redress the effects of the harassment experienced by the complainant.

Violations of this policy may result in sanctions and corrective actions, which can include, but are not limited to:

  • Verbal warning
  • Written warning
  • Advisory letter
  • Monitoring
  • Disciplinary hold on academic and/or financial records
  • Performance improvement/management process
  • Required counseling or therapy
  • Required training or education
  • Campus access restrictions
  • No trespass order issued by security (with respect to campus locations)
  • No contact directive (with respect to an individual)
  • Loss of privileges
  • Loss of oversight, teaching or supervisory responsibility
  • Probation
  • Demotion
  • Loss of pay increase
  • Transfer (employment)
  • Revocation of offer (employment or admissions)
  • Disciplinary suspension
  • Suspension with pay
  • Suspension without pay
  • Exclusion
  • Expulsion
  • Degree revocation
  • Termination of employment
  • Revocation of tenure
  • Termination of contract (for contractors)

The College may assign other sanctions as appropriate in each particular situation. Sanctions and corrective actions will be imposed in accordance with relevant policies and/or procedures and other requirements set forth in the applicable Staff/Faculty Handbooks, Student Handbook, collective bargaining agreements, other policies or handbooks that may be developed over time, or contracts.

In addition, the College may take steps to remediate the effects of a violation on victims and others. Following an investigation, the College may extend interim protective measures and accommodations, and/or take other measures to eliminate any hostile environment caused by the sexual harassment or misconduct, prevent the recurrence of any sexual harassment or misconduct, and remedy the effects of the sexual harassment or misconduct on the complainant and the College community. Such measures may include, but are not limited to, the interim measures and accommodations referenced in this policy, as well as counseling, training, and other preventative measures.

If either party disagrees with the determination of responsibility, the party or their advisor may file an appeal within 5 business days of the date stated on the Determination Letter.

Appeals are [only] permitted for the following reasons:

  1. Procedural irregularity that affected the outcome;
  2. New evidence, which was not reasonably available prior to the determination being made and which could affect the outcome, has become available;
  3. The Title IX Coordinator, investigator(s) or decision-maker(s) had a conflict of interest or bias that affected the outcome.

The appeal should be titled “Appeal” and directed to the Title IX Coordinator, who will assign the appeal to an individual or Panel (not the Investigator, Title IX Coordinator or Decision-maker/Panel) who has received requisite training and is without conflict of interest or bias (“the Appellate Officer”).

Once an appeal has been filed, each party will have the opportunity to submit a written statement in support of (or challenging) the outcome. That statement should be provided to the Title IX Coordinator within ten (10) days of the Determination Letter. The letter will then be forwarded to the Appellate Officer. The Appellate Officer will issue a written decision – simultaneously to both parties – describing the result of the appeal and rationale for the decision within ten (10) business days of the date the parties’ written statements were due.

The determination of responsibility will be considered final when: (1) neither party files a written appeal with the Title IX Coordinator within the timeline for appeal required in this Part; or (2) the individual or Panel designated to decide the appeal has issued a written decision, whichever occurs last.

Section 7: Additional Policy Provisions
Attempted violations
In most circumstances, the College will treat attempts to commit any of the violations listed in this policy as violations of the policy.
College’s Right to Sign a Formal Complaint
As necessary, the Title IX Coordinator reserves the right to sign a formal complaint without a formal complaint by the person alleging that respondent violated this Policy.
False Reports
Glen Oaks Community College will not tolerate intentional false reporting of incidents. It is a violation of this Policy, the Student Code of Conduct and employee handbook to make an intentionally false report of any policy violation, and it may also violate state criminal statutes and civil defamation laws.
Encouraging Reporting for Complainant, Respondents, and Witnesses
The college community encourages the open, honest and accurate reporting of violations of college policies, and understands that complainants, respondents or witnesses are sometimes hesitant to report to college officials or participate in grievance processes because they fear that they themselves may be charged with policy violations, such as underage drinking, that occurred at the time of the incident. To promote open, honest and accurate reporting, it is the College’s policy not to impose disciplinary penalties on complainants, respondents, and witnesses for minor policy violations related to the incident. While violations cannot be completely overlooked, the college will provide educational rather than punitive responses in such cases.
Right to Privacy
This Policy will be implemented consistent with students’ rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”), but to the extent any requirement of FERPA would conflict with a student’s constitutional rights or rights under Title IX, the College will adhere to the constitution and/or Title IX.

Approved by Board of Trustees: 8/13/20, updated 8/27/21

Transgender Policy 3.75
By wrkstudy1
January 10, 2019
760 Views
Policies

Glen Oaks Community College is committed to a College culture that respects and values all students and employees and fosters understanding of gender identity within the College community. All students and employees will adhere to procedures established in connection with this policy to ensure a safe working and learning environment, free of discrimination and harassment.

Jurisdiction of the Policy
All questions or concerns regarding the College’s Transgender Policy will be handled by the Assistant Dean of Students (for students, community members, and visitors) and the Director of Human Resources (for College employees):

 
 
 
 
Tonya Howden
Asst. Dean of Students
thowden@glenoaks.edu
269-294-4230
 
 
 
 
Jamie Yesh
Director of Human Resources
jyesh@glenoaks.edu
269-294-4229
 
 
 
 
Definitions
A. Sex:B. Gender Identity:C. Gender Expression:D. Sexual Orientation:E. Transgender:F. Transitioning:
The classification of people as male or female as assigned at birth.
One’s internal, deeply held sense of one’s gender that may nor may not conform to that typically associated with the sex they were assigned at birth. For some people, their gender identity does not fit neatly into one of the two choices.
External manifestations of gender, expressed through one’s name, pronouns, clothing, haircut, behavior, voice, or body characteristics.

An individual’s enduring physical, romantic and/or emotional attraction to another person. Gender identity and sexual orientation are not the same. Transgender people may be heterosexual, lesbian, gay, or bisexual. For example, a person who transitions from male to female and is attracted solely to men would identify as a heterosexual woman.
An umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or gender expression differs from what is typically associated with the sex they were assigned at birth. People under the transgender umbrella may describe themselves using one or more of a wide variety of terms – including transgender.
Transitioning refers to processes undertaken by some transgender people to align their gender expression with their gender identity. Aspects of transitioning may include social processes (e.g., telling others, changes in appearance, using a preferred name and/or different pronouns), medical processes (e.g., hormone therapies, gender confirmation surgery), and/or legal processes (e.g., obtaining a court-ordered name change and/or change in legal sex designation).
Procedures
A. Campus Records:B. Restrooms:C. Privacy:D. Names/Pronouns:E. GO-Zone and E-mail Addresses:F. Athletics and Physical Education:G. Locker Room Accessibility:H. Gender Segregation in Other Areas:
At the request of the student, the College will engage in reasonable and good faith efforts to use a preferred name and/or gender on internal College records such as class rosters and class schedules. The College is not permitted to use a preferred name and/or gender on the following records: enrollment verifications, transcripts, diplomas, financial aid documents, Visa documents, W-2 forms, and third party reports. There may be some situations where it may be necessary to clarify that a preferred name is different from a legal name. Examples of this include official interactions with police/law enforcement, security, and verification of medical records.
All students, faculty, staff, and visitors have the right to use the restroom that coincides with their gender identity.
College personnel shall not disclose information that may reveal a student’s transgender status.
Under the Family Education Right to Privacy Act (FERPA), only those College employees with a legitimate educational need may have access to a student’s records or the information contained within those records.
When requested by the student or employee, College staff should engage in reasonable and good faith efforts to address students and employees by their preferred names and pronouns that correspond to their gender identity, regardless of whether there has been a legal name change. Consistent with these guidelines, College personnel should make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of the student’s transgender status. Students who need to change their names or pronouns under this policy should submit a Change of Status form to the Records and Registration Office. College employees who need to change their names/pronouns under this policy should submit their requests to Human Resources.
Students and employees may request an ID card be issued in the name that reflects an individual’s gender identity that is consistently asserted at College. Once a student has submitted the Change of Status Form to the Records and Registration Office and the name change is approved, the student may obtain a new student ID card. Should students need to change a College-issued e-mail address to include the name that reflects the individual’s gender identity consistently asserted at College, they should contact the Records and Registration Office, who will complete an IT work order to change the information appropriately. Records and Registration staff will notify the student of the new login information after IT has completed the request. College employees who wish to request a change of their College-issued email under this policy should submit their requests to Human Resources.
Transgender students shall have the same opportunities to participate in physical education as all other students. Students may participate in physical education and athletics in accordance with the student’s gender identity that is consistently asserted at College. Participation in competitive athletic activities will be resolved on a case-by-case basis by the Title IX Coordinator and the Director of Athletics.
GOCC aims to support transgender students and employees while ensuring the safety of all. The use of restrooms and locker rooms by transgender students, employees and members of the community requires colleges to consider numerous factors, including, but not limited to: the transgender individual’s preference; protecting privacy; maximizing social integration; minimizing stigmatization; ensuring equal opportunity to participate; the student’s age; and protecting the safety of all persons. A transgender student or employee who expresses a need or desire for increased privacy will be provided with reasonable alternative arrangements, which may include the use of a private area, a separate changing schedule, or a single stall restroom. A transgender person may not be required to use a locker room or restroom that conflicts with the individual’s gender identity consistently asserted at the College.
In any other circumstance where students are separated by gender in College activities (i.e. overnight field trips), students will be permitted to participate in accordance with their gender identity consistently asserted at College. Activities that may involve the need for accommodations to address student privacy concerns will be addressed on a case-by-case basis considering the factors set forth above.
Bullying, Harassment, and Discrimination
Discrimination, bullying, and harassment on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression is prohibited. It is the responsibility of the College and all staff to ensure that all students, including transgender and gender nonconforming students, have safe school environments. The scope of this responsibility includes ensuring that any incident of discrimination, harassment, or bullying is given immediate attention, including investigating the incident, taking appropriate action, and providing students and staff with appropriate resources and supports. Enforcement of anti-bullying policies should focus on education and prevention rather than exclusionary discipline.
Complaints alleging discrimination or harassment based on a student’s actual or perceived gender identity or expression are to be taken seriously and handled in the same manner as other discrimination, bullying, or harassment complaints.

Approved by Board of Trustees: 2/9/2017.

Service Animal Policy 3.80
By wrkstudy1
January 9, 2019
1183 Views
Policies
I. PurposeII. Policy StatementIII. DefinitionsIV. Reasonable Modifications - Miniature HorseV. Service Animal Use on CampusVI. Student HousingVII. Service Dogs in TrainingVIII. General RequirementsIX. Clarifying Animal StatusX. Conflicting DisabilitiesXI. Removal of Service AnimalsXII. Restricted AreasXIII. Interacting with Service AnimalsXIV. Emergency SituationsXV. Policy Exceptions

Glen Oaks Community College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities and fulfilling obligations under State and Federal law. This policy governs the use of service animals on campus by persons with disabilities.

Persons with disabilities may be accompanied by working service animals on the campus of Glen Oaks Community College consistent with the provisions of this policy.

Disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such impairment, or being regarded as having such an impairment.

Service animal: The College recognizes “Service Animals” as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA). Pursuant to that law, a service animal is defined as any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.

Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals for the purposes of this definition. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the handler’s disability. The crime deterrent effects of an animal’s presence and the provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the purposes of this definition.

Glen Oaks Community College shall make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures to permit the use of a miniature horse by an individual with a disability if the miniature horse has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of the individual with a disability. Other requirements which apply to service animals shall also apply to miniature horses.

Assessment factors

In determining whether reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures can be made to allow a miniature horse into a specific facility, Glen Oaks Community College shall consider:

  • The type, size, and weight of the miniature horse and whether the facility can accommodate these features;
  • Whether the handler has sufficient control of the miniature horse;
  • Whether the miniature horse is housebroken; and
  • Whether the miniature horse’s presence in a specific facility compromises legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation.

Visitors: Visitors with service animals may access all public facilities, with the exception of areas where service animals are specifically prohibited due to safety or health restrictions, where the service animal may be in danger, or where the service animal’s use may compromise the integrity of research.

Employees: Employees with a disability who wish to utilize a service animal as a reasonable accommodation in a College office or other areas of campus buildings not open to the general public must register with the Human Resources Office at least 30 days before the animal is needed.

Students: Students with a disability who wish to utilize a service animal in a classroom are encouraged but not required to register with the Support Services for Students with Disabilities Office (SSSD), located in Student Services. Students are encouraged to register with the SSSD Office for access to resources, information, and advocacy around a range of disability-related dynamics, including service animals. Registration is encouraged for students who wish to use a dog as a service animal and is required for students who wish to use a miniature horse in College facilities.

For use of a service animal by a resident or potential resident in College housing, see the Student Housing Handbook at https://www.glenoaks.edu/student-housing/student-housing-handbook/.

  1. Service dogs in training are permitted on campus in all public facilities on the same basis as working service animals provided that the dog is being led or accompanied by a trainer for the purpose of training the dog, and the trainer has documentation confirming the trainer is affiliated with a recognized or certified service dog training organization.
  2. Only adult dogs (twelve months of age or older) are considered service dogs in training under College policy. “Puppies in training” are not permitted in College buildings, except with written permission from the Assistant Dean of Students.
  3. Service dogs in training are not permitted in classrooms, offices, or other areas of campus buildings not open to the general public, except with written permission from the Assistant Dean of Students.
  4. A student or employee with a disability who wishes to utilize a service dog in training in College housing, classrooms, offices, or other areas of campus buildings not open to the general public must register with the SSSD Office and seek approval through the reasonable accommodation process.

Service animals on campus must comply with all state and local licensure and vaccination requirements. The animal must be on a leash at all times, if appropriate for that animal.

The care and supervision of a service animal is the responsibility of the individual who uses the animal’s service. The individual must maintain control of the animal at all times. The individual using the animal’s service is responsible for ensuring the cleanup of all animal waste and for any damage caused by the animal. College officials and staff may designate animal toileting areas.

The College may place other reasonable conditions or restrictions on the animals depending on the nature and characteristics of the animal.

Service animals are permitted in all public facilities on campus in accordance with this Policy. College employees should not question an individual about an accompanying service animal if the individual’s disability is readily apparent and the function of the accompanying animal is clear.

In the unusual circumstance when an inquiry must be made to determine whether an animal is a service animal, a College employee may only ask two questions:

  1. Whether the animal is required because of a disability
  2. What work or task the animal is trained to perform

College employees shall not ask any questions about the individual’s disability.

Although a service animal may sometimes be identified by an identification card, harness, cape, or backpack, such identifiers are not required and should not be requested or demanded for any service animal on campus.

Individuals with medical issues impacted by animals (e.g., respiratory conditions, allergies or psychological conditions) should contact the SSSD Office in Student Services for assistance.

A service animal may be removed from College facilities or grounds if it is disruptive (e.g., barking, wandering, displaying aggressive behavior) and the behavior is outside the duties of the service animal. Ill, unhygienic, and/or unsanitary service animals are not permitted in public campus areas. The individual responsible for such an animal may be required to remove the animal.

The College may prohibit the use of service animals in certain locations due to health or safety restrictions, where service animals may be in danger, or where their use may compromise the integrity of research. Restricted locations may include, but are not limited to: laboratories and/or classrooms with demonstration/research animals.

Exceptions to restricted areas may be granted on a case-by-case basis by contacting the SSSD Office in Student Services. In making its decision, the SSSD Office will consult with the appropriate department and/or laboratory representative regarding the nature of the restricted area.

Service animals work and perform tasks and are not pets. Accordingly, members of the College community should adhere to the following best practices when interacting with service animals:

  • Allow a service animal to accompany its owner at all times and in all places on campus that are open to the general population.
  • Do not touch or feed a service animal unless invited to do so;
  • Do not deliberately distract or startle a service animal, and,
  • Do not separate or attempt to separate a service animal from the individual using the animal’s service.
  • Do not inquire for details about a person’s disabilities. The nature of a person’s disability is a private matter.

A handler/animal team may become stressed during emergency situations involving smoke, fire, sirens, or injury, and exhibit protective behavior. Be aware that service animals may try to communicate the need for help. In emergency situations make every effort to avoid separating the handler from the animal.

Individuals wishing to request a modification or exception to this policy as a reasonable accommodation should contact the SSSD Office in Student Services.

Approved by the Board of Trustees 6/15/2017

Freedom of Expression Policy 3.44A
By wrkstudy1
January 9, 2019
1127 Views
Policies
I. Purpose of policyII. ScopeIII. Expressive Activity DefinedIV. Expressive Activity for Enrolled Students and Registered Student GroupsV. Expressive Activity by College VisitorsVI. RulesVII. Enforcement

The purpose of the policy is to promote the free exchange of ideas and the safe and efficient operation of the College by:

  • Fostering free speech, assembly, and other expressive activities at publicly accessible outdoor areas of any College campus, regardless of the viewpoint being expressed;
  • Maintaining an appropriate educational and work environment for all persons present on College property; and
  • Protecting and maintaining the security of College property, students, employees and visitors.

In developing and administering this policy, the College recognizes the freedoms guaranteed by the United States and Michigan constitutions, including freedom of speech and assembly. The College also recognizes the need to preserve and protect its property, students, guests and employees, and to ensure the effective operation of educational, business and related activities of the College.

Expressive activities on the College’s campus may be subject to reasonable regulation with regard to the time, place and manner of the activities. College employees will not consider the content or viewpoint of expressive activities when enforcing this policy, including by restricting students’ expression based on concerns about other person(s)’ negative reaction to the expression. No policy can address every possible activity or situation that may occur on College property, and the College reserves the right to address such situations as circumstances warrant.

Expressive activities carried out under this policy will not be considered to be speech made by, on behalf of, or endorsed by the College.

This policy applies on all of the College Campus.

“Expressive Activity” is defined as the carrying or displaying of signs or placards, leafleting, campaigning, marches, rallies, parades, demonstrations, protests, assemblies, speeches, circulation of petitions, and/or any public demonstration on College grounds.

A. General Access

Registered students and student groups may use, without prior notification or permission, any publicly accessible outdoor area of the College campus except parking lots, and driveways. Federal, state and local laws will be enforced, as applicable. The use of walkways or other common areas may not block the free passage of others nor impede the regular operation of the College.

Use of the publicly accessible outdoor area may include speaking, non-verbal expression, distributing literature, displaying signage and circulating petitions. There is no limit to the number of times a month a person or group may access these areas, provided that access is limited to hours when the College is open to the public.

During work and class hours, or if the area is currently in use for an official College event, amplification will be restricted if it interferes with College operations or noise ordinances are violated.

B. Large Groups
Except in the circumstances described below, any person or group whose use of an outdoor area for demonstration, protest or distribution or literature is expected or reasonably likely to have more than fifty (50) people in attendance shall notify the Dean of Finance & Administration and the Dean of Students, or their designee at least two (2) business days before the day of the activity. The notification shall be submitted at least two (2) business days before the day of activity. Notification shall include information as to the specific location requested to be used for the event and the estimated expected number of persons, and the name and contact information of at least one person who can be contacted regarding logistics of the event, which should include at least one person who will be personally present.

C. Reserved Space

In addition to the general right of access to outdoor areas of campus described above, any registered student or student organization may seek to reserve the use of specific indoor areas by contacting the President’s Office. Requests by a registered student or student organization to reserve such area or space shall be made at least 5 business days before the event. A request will be granted unless it would conflict or interfere with a previously scheduled event or activity or violate College policy.

A student or student organization that has reserved a specific area or space under this policy will have priority over any other persons seeking to use the area or space during the scheduled time period. Any decision denying a request will be promptly communicated (within 48 hours of receiving the request) in writing to the requester and will set forth the basis for the denial.

The content of the anticipated speech or other expressive activity will not form the basis for a denial.

A. Requests to Engage in Expressive Activity

Members of the public who are not registered students or student organizations must receive a permit before engaging in Expressive Activity on any College campus. Requests to schedule Expressive Activity on the College grounds shall be made to the Dean of Finance & Administrative Services, and Dean of Students or their designee (hereinafter, Dean’s). Requests may be submitted in person at the Dean of Student’s Office.

B. Process

Requests must be made in writing to the Dean of Finance & Administration and Dean of Students during regular business hours at least 48 hours prior to any Expressive Activity on a form supplied by the College. Each request shall be in writing and shall contain the following information:

  1. Name/address/telephone number(s) of contact person(s).
  2. Name/address/telephone number(s) of back-up contact person(s).
  3. Date and hours requested for the expressive activity and duration of the expressive activity.
  4. Area requested for use.
  5. Number of anticipated participants.
  6. Structures to be used in the expressive activity.
C. Appeal

If a person or organization is aggrieved by a decision of the Dean of Finance & Administration or Dean of Students, an appeal may be taken to the President within three College business days of that decision. The appeal shall be in writing, stating the basis therefore, and the relief sought. The President shall promptly announce their decision.

Use of College grounds is subject to the following:

A. Time Frame

In order to maintain the security, safety and aesthetic appearance of the College and College grounds, and to provide for regular maintenance, improvements or alterations,
Expressive Activity on the College grounds may occur only between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. and shall at no time block any entrance or exit of the buildings, or impede free access to the buildings or parking lots by its students, faculty, employees, occupants or the public.

B. Interference with College Business

No activity shall substantially impede or interfere with College business, the educational process, or public access to College grounds.

C. Alteration of Grounds & Clean Up

To provide for regular maintenance, improvements or alterations of the College grounds and in order to maintain the security, safety and aesthetic appearance of the College and College grounds, equipment, signs, banners or structures of any kind that are placed on the College grounds shall be free standing and shall not be affixed to any building, tree, monument, fixture or other College structure. The equipment, signs, banners or structures shall be entirely removed at the conclusion of the expressive activity, or no later than 8:00 p.m. on any day of any Expressive Activity. Structures (whether for shelter or for any other purpose) must be pre-approved by the Vice President, Student Services.

D. Affixing Signs, Banner, and Structures

Due to the presence of underground utility, electrical and drainage lines, signs, banners or other objects shall not be driven into the ground; nor shall they be supported in or by any tree, monument or other structure affixed to the College grounds. Signs, banners or objects supported by freestanding devices may not be left unattended, i.e., an individual must be stationed within six feet of a freestanding sign or banner at all times to prevent damage to the property and injury to individuals.

E. Defacing or Damaging College Grounds/Property

Defacing or damaging the College grounds, including but not limited to trees, shrubbery, flowers, lawns, sidewalks, parking lots, fences, lighting fixtures, light wells, fire hydrants, benches, statues, monuments, plaques, and such subterranean features as are necessary for the maintenance and operation of the College (such as lawn sprinkler systems, sewer and water mains, electrical conduit, etc.), or any other feature is not allowed. Likewise, defacing or damaging the exterior walls and surfaces of the buildings, including the entrances, porches and staircases, is not allowed.

F. Current College Structures

Stepping or climbing upon statues, monuments, fences, lighting fixtures, light wells, trees, or parts of the College building not intended for such purposes is not allowed.

G. Limitations for Signage

No sign located within 50 feet of a roadway, entrance or exit shall be larger than 3′ x 3′, and no sign shall block the sight lines of drivers entering or exiting the College grounds or traveling on a public roadway around the College.

H. Vehicles

Vehicles are not allowed on the College grounds, except in areas designated for vehicular use.

I. Camping/Sleeping Overnight

Camping or sleeping overnight on the College grounds is not allowed.

J. Drugs and Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages or any other controlled substance shall not be possessed, dispensed, or consumed on the College grounds.

K. Distribution of Literature

Individuals distributing literature shall remove all discarded items from the general area(s) of distribution at the conclusion of their activity.

L. Firearms/Weapons

Firearms, or other weapons are not allowed on campus.

M. Compliance

All persons must comply with all College policies, Campus Rules and Regulations, and local, state and federal ordinances and statutes.

N. Prohibited spaces

Expressive Activity inside College buildings is prohibited.

O. Solicitation

Distribution/solicitation by placing any material on vehicles in the parking lots or garages is prohibited. Leaving trash, litter, materials or pollutants in any area is prohibited.

The College reserves the right to stop any activity that substantially interferes with or disrupts the normal activities of the College; interferes with the educational process; or violates any of the conditions covering expressive activity under this policy. Any person who violates this policy may be subject to an order to leave College property. Employees in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline, up to and including termination. Students in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline under the applicable Code of Conduct.

Adopted by Board of Trustees 1/11/2018.

Policy On Campus Unrest, Dissent, and Protest Policy 3.44
By wrkstudy1
January 9, 2019
1321 Views
Policies

Glen Oaks Community College is categorically committed to the concept of individual and group freedom – so long as freedom of thought and/or action does not infringe upon or abuse the freedoms, rights and privileges of other individuals or groups. It is within the context of this commitment that the following statement is issued.

Campus violence already threatens some colleges and universities in a way that could cripple their freedom for many years. Even so we must be mindful of the dangers in laying out inflexible guidelines about unacceptable conduct or in specifying the precise moment when a hazard to the institution is such that civil authority must be called upon.

If one central theme or thread can be extracted from the fabric of campus and student unrest, it would reveal problems occur when communication breaks down or is lacking. Students should not only be given substantial autonomy, but also participate in matters of general educational policy, especially in curricular affairs. Since increased participation contributes to effective decision making, students should serve in a variety of roles on committees. Effective student representation will not only improve the quality of decisions, but also ensure their acceptability to the student body.

Every attempt must be made to establish effective communications so that policy questions, grievances and/or disciplinary problems can be aired by the college community. To this end, violations and/or violators of individual or group freedom will be referred to the President to hear, weigh, evaluate, and recommend as is necessary by the evidence at hand in solving the problem and attaining the objective.

Students must know that they cannot be shielded from the consequences of their behavior, especially when it violates the laws of society at large. They must recognize and respect the rights of other students as they seek rights and privileges for themselves. Threats, violence, coercive disruption of classes and events, and similar acts that tread on the rights of others are intolerable.

Mindful of the concerns of the general public as well as the state legislature the following information, entitled Act #26 of the Public Acts of 1970 of the State of Michigan, is reproduced herein.

ACT #26 OF THE PUBLIC ACTS OF 1970

AN ACT to provide penalties for certain conduct at public institutions of higher education.

The People of the State of Michigan enact:

Sec. 1

A person is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $500.00, or by incarceration in the county jail for not more than 30 days, or both:

  1. When the chief administrative officer of a publicly owned and operated institution of higher education, or his designee, notifies the person that he is such officer or designee and the person is in violation of the properly promulgated rules of the institution; and
  2. When the person is in fact in violation of such rules; and
  3. When, thereafter, such officer or designee directs the person to vacate the premises, building or other structure of the institution; and
  4. When the person thereafter willfully remains in or on such premises, building or other structure; and
  5. When, in so remaining therein or thereon, the person constitutes (1) a clear and substantial risk of physical harm or injury to other persons or of damage to or destruction of the property of the institution, or (2) an unreasonable prevention or disruption of the customary and lawful functions of the institution, by occupying space necessary therefore or by use of force or by threat of force.
Sec. 2
A person is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than $200.00 and not more than $1,000.00 or by incarceration in the county jail for not more than 90 days, or both, who enters on the premises, building or other structure of a publicly owned and operated institution of higher education, with the intention to, and therein or thereon does in fact, constitute (a) a clear and substantial risk of physical harm or injury to other persons or of damage to or destruction of the property of the institution, or (b) an unreasonable prevention or disruption of the customary and lawful function of the institution, by occupying space necessary therefore or by use of force or by threat of force.
Sec. 3
This act shall take effect August 1, 1970.

This act is ordered to take immediate effect.

The following act or acts could or might necessitate invoking the trespass law but not be necessarily limited to it:

Destruction of or willful damage to institutional property, grounds or facilities:

Where responsibility can be ascertained, resultant action should evolve through “due process” with local and/or state agencies. Restitution if and when practicable will be considered. Suspension and/or dismissal action may be instituted by proper authority.

Disruption of or undue distractive influences within an organized classroom situation:

Any person or persons when in the opinion of the instructor are not contributing to or are distracting from the educational atmosphere of the class or logical pursuit thereof shall be removed and/or denied access thereto with resultant notification to the Dean of the College and the Dean of Student Services.

Barricading or causing to prevent free access to or egress from any area of the campus including but not exclusive of classrooms, office areas, corridors, stairways, library areas, student center, maintenance and service areas, and roadways:

After ample opportunity and notification by proper authority has been afforded to and no response and/or action resulted there from, physical apprehension and eviction by proper authority shall be affected. Length of time interval from notification to desist from, to notification of proper authority not to exceed three (3) minutes duration. Suspension and/or dismissal action may be instituted by proper authority.

Disruptive action prior to, during or subsequent to an address, performance, event or ceremony:

Any person who interferes with access to or egress from a performance of an address, ceremony, athletic event, or any college sanctioned activity and/or interferes with the continuity of an address, performance or event shall be considered to be preventing or disrupting the customary and lawful function of the institution. Suspension and/or dismissal action may be instituted by proper authority.

Readmission to a class or function after having been removed or suspended there from:

Any student has the absolute right to attend a class in which he is duly enrolled unless he/she has abrogated that right. Final permission for readmission rests with the instructor and/or designated responsible person involved acting in conjunction with the Dean handling the incident. Offenders in this regard should be handled in the same manner as a disruptive or distractive influence.

The right of student dissent or protest within the confines of a building or on the grounds of Glen Oaks Community College:

The right of peaceful dissent and protest should be and will be honored as long as it does not interfere in the rights of others to pursue an education, access to normal working stations, or bring discredit upon the institution and the customary and lawful functions of the institution.

The possession, use of, or causing to bring firearms, dangerous weapons, or explosive agents within the confines of a building or onto the grounds of Glen Oaks Community College is expressly prohibited:*

Any person or persons who are in violation of the above shall, through due process, be subject to suspension and/or dismissal action and will necessitate immediate notification of violation and of proper legal authority of said violation.

Violations of Act #26 of the Public Acts of 1970; The Employees Trespass Law or any of the above rules and regulations of Glen Oaks Community College will result in immediate

suspension of said employee and if substantiated through due process by duly constituted legal authority will be grounds for termination of said employment. Student violations will result in suspension and if substantiated, possible expulsion in the future from college classes and events.

*See Resolution and Policy Amendment 3.32.

In the event that it is necessary to inform certain individuals they are in violation of Act #26 of 1970, the following format is to be used:

“My name is                                    and I am the designee of the President of Glen Oaks Community College and I am also the agent of the owner of the property upon which you are now standing. I hereby notify you, and each one of you individually, that all persons in this group are in violation of the properly promulgated rules of Glen Oaks Community College, specifically that. Any right that you have to use these premises is hereby suspended, whether you are a student or not, and acting on behalf of Glen Oaks Community College and on behalf of the owner of this property, I hereby instruct each and every one of you, whether or not you are a student, to immediately vacate and depart from this property. If you fail to do so, you will immediately be arrested and prosecuted for violating the laws of the State of Michigan relative to trespassing and to conduct upon the property of institutions of higher education.”

⇓ See ACT #26 OF THE PUBLIC ACTS OF 1970
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Adopted by Board of Trustees 11/18/70, revised 9/14/05, 9/17/14

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