Student Code of Conduct

About the Student Code of Conduct

Embedded in the mission, vision, and core values of Community College of Philadelphia is the desire to create a caring environment that is intellectually and culturally dynamic and values integrity, academic excellence, diversity, commitment to teaching and learning, communication, and respect. Such an environment encourages all students to achieve greater insight, increased awareness, critical thinking skills, and self-fulfillment in preparation of becoming global citizens. Accomplishing these ideals requires a commitment from faculty, staff, and students to adhere to standards of behavior that assure a safe, healthy, and caring atmosphere. It is essential that each member of the College community participate freely in the pursuit of the ideals of the College's mission statement.

As responsible citizens, students are expected to demonstrate an awareness of the responsibilities of informed citizenship in a diverse and pluralistic society; self-management in the requirements that come with one's role as a student in the classroom and at the College; integrity in one's role as a student relative to other students, faculty, staff and administrators; and an effort to understand the perspective of others and to respond to others with well-founded thoughts.

The Student Code of Conduct supports the College's mission by outlining students' rights and responsibilities in addition to defining acceptable behaviors.

Student's Responsibilities

Preserve an Environment Conducive to Learning

The College has the inherent authority to maintain good order and discipline in the furtherance of its lawful mission. The Student Code of Conduct clearly and concisely identifies those behaviors that put students at risk of disciplinary action. The Code of Conduct also assures that students enjoy those protected behaviors inherent in their status as students and enumerated under Student Rights below. Students are held accountable to the College's Student Code of Conduct.

RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS.

The strength of the College lies in its diversity. Respect for the differences each student, faculty and staff person brings to the College is essential. Such differences include race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, background, beliefs, experiences, cultures, values, views, national origin, religion, and ability. Students come to campus with unique interests, and while they are on campus, as a result of their interactions in the formal classroom and in the co-curriculum of the campus, they continue to develop and expand their pursuits.

OBEY FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL LAWS AND THE POLICIES OF THE COLLEGE.

Teaching and learning require an atmosphere where dialogue, debate and the exchange of ideas can flourish unfettered. The sanctity of the classroom, academic freedom, and the student's freedom of expression all require a separate set of standards than those provided for by our society. Students must not only adhere to the rules of our society because they are the law, they must also adhere to those College policies which establish the College as a place where teaching and learning require a different set of standards. Cooperate with faculty, staff and administrators to further the mission of the College. Accessing the opportunities offered by the College is dependent upon students' ability to meet their responsibilities to provide accurate information, meet their financial obligations, and advocate for their needs. The freedom to teach and the freedom to learn are inseparable facets of the collegiate experience. Additionally, while enrolled in the College, students are expected to take an active voice in curricular and co-curricular interests, be active participants in the formulation of institutional policies, maintain the standards set for satisfactory academic progress, cultivate their life-long learning skills, and act in a manner on and off campus which reflects positively upon themselves, the College and our community.

STUDENT'S RIGHTS

On June 5, 1968, the Community College of Philadelphia Board of Trustees unanimously adopted a set of principles to guide the College in its development of policies and procedures relating to rights and responsibilities of students. Taken, in part, from the "Joint Statement on Rights and Freedoms of Students" developed, initially, by the American Association of University Professors, the Association of American Colleges, the United States National Student Association, the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, and the National Association of Women Deans and Counselors, the College put forth, in spirit and content, those basic tenets which protect the rights of students. They include:

FREEDOM OF ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION

The admissions policies of the College clearly state the characteristics and expectations of students which are considered relevant to success in the institution's programs. All facilities and services of the College are open to all enrolled students.

FREEDOM IN THE CLASSROOM

Students are responsible for learning the content of the courses in which they enroll, though they should be free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study and reserve judgment about matters of opinion.

Students are responsible for maintaining those standards of academic performance required by each course in which they are enrolled. Students should have protection against prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation.

Students' views, beliefs, and political associations which are acquired by faculty members in the course of their work as instructors, advisors and counselors should be considered confidential.

FREEDOM OF INQUIRY AND EXPRESSION

Students and their organizations are free to examine and discuss all questions and issues of interest and inquiry to them and to express their opinions publicly and privately. Such freedom does not permit student groups to disrupt the orderly processes of the educational environment. The actions of student groups should be clearly delineated from the activities and responsibilities of the College.

FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION

Students are free to form groups and organizations that appeal to the interests of a variety of students. Official student groups and organizations must be open for membership to all Community College of Philadelphia students in good standing. Official student organizations shall not deny membership or participation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other status protected under federal, state or local law unless otherwise permitted under applicable Federal law. Certain performance-based requirements may be imposed on a view-point neutral/belief-neutral and status-neutral basis. For example, honor societies may require a certain minimum G.P.A. or matriculation into an academic program and singing groups may require students to audition. Official College organizations must be sanctioned by the College by having met all of the requirements established by the Office of Student Life.

RIGHT TO DUE PROCESS

A student charged with misconduct must be informed of the nature of the charges in writing, be given copies of any documents related to the charges, and be given the opportunity to refute them. The College must not be arbitrary in its decisions to discipline students and must always provide the opportunity for students to appeal any disciplinary sanction. When disciplinary decisions are rendered, students must be provided with procedural guidelines for appeal. Whenever possible, except for reasons related to the mental or physical safety or wellbeing of the student or others on the campus, a student's status, including the right to attend classes, participate in College activities, or use College facilities, should not be altered pending disciplinary action.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

ARTICLE I: DEFINITIONS

  1. The term "student" includes all persons taking courses at the College, both full-time and part-time, and those who attend post-secondary educational institutions other than the Community College of Philadelphia. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term, but who have a continuing relationship with the College are also considered "students."
  2. The term "College" means Community College of Philadelphia.
  3. The term "faculty member" means any person hired by the College to conduct instructional activities. The term "faculty member" at Community College of Philadelphia shall include counselors and librarians.
  4. The term "College official" includes any person employed by or associated with the College in performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.
  5. The term "member of the College community" includes any person who is a student, faculty member, College official or any other person employed by or associated with the College. A person's status in a particular situation shall be determined by the President of the College.
  6. The term "College premises" includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the College (including adjacent streets and sidewalks).
  7. The term "organization" means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for College recognition/registration.
  8. The term "Judicial Body" means any person or persons authorized by the Vice President for Academic and Student Success to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and to recommend imposition of sanctions. A judicial body may consist of the Judicial Affairs Officer or a Judicial Hearing Committee.
  9. The term "Judicial Affairs Officer" means a College official authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Vice President for Academic and Student Success to impose sanctions upon students found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct. The Vice President for Academic and Student Success may authorize the Judicial Affairs Officer to serve simultaneously as a Judicial Affairs Officer and one of the members of a Judicial Hearing Committee. Nothing shall prevent the Vice President for Academic and Student Success from authorizing the same Judicial Affairs Officer to impose sanctions in all cases.
  10. The Judicial Affairs Officer is that person designated by the College President to be responsible for the administration of the Student Code of Conduct.
  11. The term "Judicial Hearing Committee" means a College committee which is authorized to hear judicial cases and recommend specific sanctions upon students found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct.
  12. The term "mediation" refers to a form of voluntary intervention in which conflicting parties elect to use a neutral third party or mediator to help find a solution to their dispute.
  13. The phrase "Informal Disciplinary Procedures" refers to allowing students who allegedly commit minor infractions of the Student Code of Conduct to be subject to less formal procedures in the hearing and adjudicating of their cases.
  14. The term "Formal hearing" means a student will be afforded a formal forum to present his/her case. The formal hearing may include testimonies of witnesses and the right to cross examination of witnesses present during the hearing.
  15. The term "Student Appeals Committee" means any person or persons authorized by the President to consider an appeal from a judicial body's determination that a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct or from the sanctions imposed by the Judicial Affairs Officer or the Judicial Hearing Committee.
  16. The term "shall" is used in the imperative sense (required).
  17. The term "may" is used in the permissive sense (option).
  18. The term "policy" is defined as the written regulations of the College as found in, but not limited to, the Student Code of Conduct, Student Handbook, and College Catalog.
  19. The term "school day" shall refer to any day that classes are in session with the exception of weekends and holidays. Weekends and holidays are not considered in calculating response time for notification of sanctions and appeals.
  20. The term "Complainant" refers to any person who initiates a report leading to charges.

ARTICLE II: JUDICIAL AUTHORITY

  1. The Judicial Affairs Officer, subject to the approval of the Vice President for Academic and Student Success, shall develop procedures for conducting of hearings. Such procedures shall be consistent with provisions of the Student Code of Conduct.
  2. The Judicial Hearing Committee shall be selected from a pool of twelve members. The pool shall have equal representation (four persons each) from faculty, administrators and students. The Faculty and Staff Federation shall recommend faculty representatives. The Vice President for Academic and Student Success shall recommend administrators. The Student Government Association shall recommend student representatives. All members recommended to serve on the Judicial Hearing Committee are subject to final approval of the College President. Four chairpersons of the committees shall be appointed from the pool of twelve by the President of the College and shall serve, case by case, on a rotating basis as one of three members of each hearing committee.
  3. The Judicial Hearing Committee shall hear cases at the discretion of the Judicial Affairs Officer. The chair of the Judicial Hearing Committee shall select two other members from the Judicial Hearing Committee pool for the purpose of hearing cases. There shall be three committee members present (one person from each constituent group of faculty, administration, and students) in order to conduct a hearing. As with the chairperson, the other two committee members shall participate, case by case, on a rotating basis.
  4. Sanctions recommended by a judicial body are subject to the normal appeals process.
  5. Students are expected to abide by College rules and regulations both inside and outside the classroom. Whenever appropriate, minor violations committed in the general College environment may be dealt with through an informal disciplinary process at the discretion of the Judicial Affairs Officer.
  6. The pool shall be initially selected on a staggered one, two, and three year term and thereafter shall be appointed for a three year term. Alternates shall be selected to replace persons who rotate off or otherwise leave the pool.

ARTICLE III: PROSCRIBED CONDUCT

Jurisdiction of the College

Generally, College jurisdiction and discipline shall be limited to conduct which occurs on College premises or which adversely affects the College community and/or the pursuit of its objectives.

Conduct

Rules and Regulations Any student found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct including, but not limited to, the following is subject to the disciplinary sanctions outlined in Article IV:

Abuse of the College's Judicial System

Abuse of the College's Judicial System is prohibited. Abuse includes, but is not limited to, the following:

  1. Failing to obey the summons of a judicial body or College official.
  2. Falsifying, distorting, or misrepresenting information before a judicial body.
  3. Disrupting or interfering with the orderly conduct of a judicial proceeding.
  4. Instituting a judicial proceeding knowingly without cause.
  5. Attempting to discourage an individual's proper participation in, or use of, the judicial system.
  6. Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a judicial body prior to, and/or during the course of, the judicial proceeding.
  7. Harassing (verbally or physically) and/or intimidating a member of a judicial body prior to, during, and/or after a judicial proceeding.
  8. Failing to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Student Code.
  9. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the judicial system.
AIDING AND ABETTING

Aiding and abetting in the violation of College rules is prohibited. Anyone who aids or abets in the violation of College rules or who encourages the violation of rules may be considered just as responsible as the actual violator or offender and may be subject to the same sanctions as the actual offender.

ALCOHOL

The possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of alcohol while on College property, while participating in any College-sponsored activities or while conducting College business off-campus is prohibited except as expressly permitted by the law and College regulations. Public intoxication is also prohibited.

ARSON

Purposely attempting to set fire or burn any College building, furnishings, equipment or personal property is prohibited.

ASSEMBLY

Free and open assembly is permitted subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. For the purposes of this code, assembly is defined as an individual or group organizing for the purpose of communication. Use of College space should be requested through established facility reservation procedures. Student groups and organizations should request such use through the Student Life Center. Failure to adhere to the College's procedure regarding Assembly is prohibited.

BOMB / BOMB THREAT

Placing an explosive device or intentional imitation of such a device or threatening the placement of explosive devices on any College property, including surrounding areas, is prohibited.

CONTRACTS

Students are prohibited from entering into a contract with an outside agency using the name of the College. Contracts entered into in violation of this rule shall be the personal responsibility of the student.

DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY

Intentionally destroying or damaging College property or property of others on College premises or at College-sponsored activities is prohibited.

DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT

Discrimination or disparate treatment based on protected statuses or characteristics including race, color, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, religion, age, ancestry, disability, genetic information, military status, or veteran status is prohibited. No student shall engage in discrimination/harassment of another student, faculty, or staff member based on any protected status or characteristics. Retaliation against a person for reporting or objecting to discrimination or harassment is a violation of this policy, whether or not discrimination or harassment occurred.

DISHONESTY

Acts of dishonesty are prohibited. Dishonesty refers to, but is not limited to, fabrication, obtaining an unfair advantage, furnishing false information to any College official, faculty member or office, unauthorized access to computerized systems, and tampering with the election of any College-recognized student organization.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT

Disorderly conduct is prohibited. Disorderly conduct includes behavior that is disruptive, lewd, or indecent; involves a breach of the peace; or aids, abets, or procures another person to breach the peace on College premises or at functions participated in or sponsored by the College. Disorderly conduct includes:

  1. College activities, on or off-campus, in all locations.
  2. Authorized non-College activities, occurring on College property.
DOMESTIC AND DATING VIOLENCE

Domestic and Dating Violence include sexual and/or physical abuse or threat of such abuse or other violence committed by someone who is a current or former spouse, current or former intimate or romantic partner, or someone who shares a child in common, or as otherwise defined under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

FAILURE TO COMPLY

Failing to comply with directions of College officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties and/or failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested is prohibited.

FALSE ALARMS OR FALSELY REPORTED FIRE ALARMS

Setting, reporting or causing a false fire alarm is prohibited.

FIRE-PROTECTION EQUIPMENT

Tampering with or possessing College fire-protection equipment, including fire extinguishers, hoses, exit lights, smoke detectors, and alarm systems is prohibited.

FORGERY

Forging, altering, or misusing any College document, record, or instrument of identification is prohibited.

FRAUD

Acts of fraud are prohibited. Fraud is intentionally using deceit, trickery, or some dishonest means for profit or to gain some unfair or dishonest advantage. Fraud includes, but is not limited to:

  1. Falsifying timesheets to improperly receive compensation or credit for hours not worked.
  2. Using, possessing, manufacturing, or distributing an access device, such as a credit/debit card or declining balance card, to obtain or attempt to obtain property or services with knowledge that the access device is counterfeit, altered or incomplete; the access device was issued to another person who has not authorized its use; the access device has been revoked or cancelled; or for any other reason the use of the access device is unauthorized by the issuer or the device holder.
GAMBLING

Gambling or holding a raffle or lottery on the campus or at any College function without proper College and other necessary approval is prohibited.

HAZING

Hazing, defined as any act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or which destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a College-sponsored group or organization is prohibited.

ILLEGAL DRUGS AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE

The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs and substances, illegal or unauthorized prescription drugs, or drug paraphernalia is prohibited on College premises. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs are not prohibited when taken in standard dosage and/or according to a physician's prescription. In addition to College sanctions, students may be subject to federal and state laws that specify fines or imprisonment for conviction of drug-related offenses. Where appropriate or necessary, the College will fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

OBSTRUCTION OF PEDESTRIAN OR VEHICULAR TRAFFIC

Obstructing the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on College premises or at College-sponsored or supervised functions is prohibited.

OBSTRUCTION OF TEACHING

Disrupting or obstructing class is prohibited. Classroom disruptions are defined as behaviors that continue after a warning and which a reasonable faculty member would view as being likely to substantially or repeatedly interfere with the conduct of a class. Examples may include, but are not limited to: unauthorized use of cell phones, pagers, portable CDs, electronic games, and all other electronic devices in the classroom; persistent speaking without being recognized; talking with classmates while the faculty member (or another student who has the floor) is talking; entering class late; leaving class early; or leaving and returning to class while class is in session without permission.

PHYSICAL/VERBAL ABUSE

Physically abusing, assaulting, or verbally abusing any person is prohibited.

POSTING POLICY

Failure to follow the College's Posting Policy is prohibited. All postings must conform to all applicable College policies. Specifically, postings must adhere to the College's Statement of Mission and Affirmative Action Statement. To that end, both "Public" and "College" corkboards will be provided throughout the College.

  1. Posting of flyers, leaflets, promotional materials, etc., is prohibited in College Buildings except at designated corkboards and kiosks.
  2. Postings that advertise goods or services, events, sales or activities not sponsored by the College may only be posted on the corkboard or kiosk identified as a "Public Board."
  3. Postings that advertise College events or activities and postings that are intended to make students and/or faculty and staff aware of College-related issues are to be posted on the corkboard or kiosk identified as a "College Board." All postings on the "College Boards" must include sponsoring College office or department name and contact information, e.g., phone, email, web address.
  4. No more than one event notice or posting is permitted per location. Multiple copies of the same flyer are not permitted at a single location.
  5. All postings on the "Public Boards" will be removed on the 15th and 30th of each month.
  6. All postings on "College Boards" will be removed on the 30th of each month.
  7. The size of postings on the "Public Board" cannot exceed 8-1/2" x 11" inches unless prior approval is received from the Office of Student Life.
  8. The size of postings on the "College Board" cannot exceed 22" x 28" inches.
  9. Postings in non-authorized areas of College Buildings will be taken down immediately. Disciplinary and/or legal actions may be pursued against individuals in violation of this policy.
RETALIATION

Retaliation against any individual for filing a complaint in good faith, or for assisting in the investigation of such complaint is prohibited

SEXUAL ASSAULT

Sexual assault includes any of the following:

  1. Any intentional, unconsented touching, or threat or attempt thereof, of:
    1. an intimate bodily part of another person, such as a sexual organ, buttocks or breast
    2. any bodily part of another person with a sexual organ; or
    3. any part of another person's body with the intent of accomplishing a sexual act;
  2. disrobing of another person without the other's consent or purposeful exposure of one's genitals to another without the other's consent; or
  3. forcing or attempting to force, another person to engage in sexual activity of any kind without their consent. Consent in sexual activity is defined in Pennsylvania in accordance with its plain and common meaning. Consent means words or actions that show a knowing and voluntary agreement to engage in mutually agreed sexual activity. Consent must be ongoing through sexual activity and can be revoked at any time. Assent (an affirmative statement or action) shall not constitute consent if it is given by a person who is unable to make a reasonable judgment concerning the nature or harmfulness of the activity because of their intoxication, unconsciousness, youth, mental deficiency or incapacity, or if the assent is the product of threat or coercion. Consent to prior sexual activities does not constitute consent to future acts.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment is prohibited. Unwelcome verbal or physical conduct based on sex or gender that which is severe or pervasive enough to a reasonable person that it substantially interferes with a student's academic (or work) performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment is considered sexual harassment. This form of harassment may include acts of intimidation, aggression or hostility based on sex or sex-stereotyping, even if the acts do not involve conduct of a sexual nature.

SMOKING

Smoking is prohibited in any building including classrooms, gymnasium, restrooms, laboratories, or other internal spaces on campus.

SOLICITATION

No individual or company may solicit or sell on campus for personal gain. Use of campus property to solicit donations, make sales, or recruit is restricted to the College, College-recognized organizations, departments, and College-sponsored programs and activities. Prior approval must be obtained from the office under whose jurisdiction the organization or the department operates. Failure to follow these rules is prohibited.

STALKING

Stalking means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or the safety of others; or suffer severe emotional distress; or as "stalking" is otherwise defined by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. One engages in an impermissible course of conduct if one engages in two or more acts that include, but are not limited to acts in which the stalker directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, or device or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates about a person in a way prohibited as described above, or interferes with a person's property.

TECHNOLOGY

Abuse of the College's technology is prohibited. Violations consist of theft and/or other abuse of computer time, including but not limited to:

  1. Unauthorized entry into a file to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.
  2. Unauthorized transfer of a file.
  3. Unauthorized use of another individual's identification and/or password.
  4. Use of computing facilities to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member, or College official.
  5. Use of computing facilities to send obscene, abusive, or threatening messages.
  6. Use of College computers to visit lewd and indecent web sites except for educational purposes.
  7. Use of computing facilities to interfere with normal operation of the College computing system.
THEFT AND/OR POSSESSION OF STOLEN PROPERTY

Attempted or actual theft of and/or damage to property of the College or property of a member of the College community or removing or using College property for personal, political, or social purposes without authorization or permission is prohibited.

THREATENING BEHAVIOR/HARASSMENT/BULLYING

Threatening, intimidating, harassing, bullying, coercing and/or engaging in other conduct which is threatening or endangering to the health or safety of any person is prohibited.

TRASH

No student shall deposit, dump, litter, or otherwise dispose of any refuse on College property, except in duly designated refuse depositories.

UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY

Unauthorized entry to or use of College premises or unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of keys to any College premises is prohibited.

VANDALISM

All acts of vandalism are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated on College property.

VIOLATION OF COLLEGE RULES AND REGULATIONS

Violating published College policies, rules or regulations is prohibited. Students are expected to promptly report conduct or activity which poses a danger to the community or its members.

VIOLATION OF FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL LAW

Violating federal, state, or local law on College premises or at College-sponsored or supervised activities is prohibited. All students are subject to the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the City of Philadelphia. Any violations while on campus or on College-sponsored activities will result in disciplinary procedures, which may include the involvement of local authorities.

WEAPONS/DANGEROUS CHEMICALS

Possession of firearms, explosives, knives, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals on College premises or College-sponsored or supervised activities is prohibited. However, authorization may be granted or denied by the College.

Conduct - Academic Integrity

Academic integrity emphasizes fairness and honesty in academic study and communication and is a shared commitment and responsibility of students, faculty, and administrators.

The faculty and staff of Community College of Philadelphia are dedicated to helping students learn about academic integrity and to develop their abilities to engage in academic study fairly and honestly. These abilities include respecting others’ work through correct citations, learning to quote, paraphrase, and summarize accurately and appropriately, and taking responsibility for doing your own work rather than cheating on a test or assignment or deceiving a professor to get more time on an assignment. For academic support, students are encouraged to use the Learning Lab and Library Services to their advantage. These services are free and very helpful resources. Please visit the Virtual Student Resource Center website for more information.

Rights and Responsibilities
Faculty
  1. It is the responsibility of faculty to know and execute College policies regarding academic integrity in a fair, timely, and diligent manner.
  2. It is the responsibility of faculty to inform students of class expectations and assessment guidelines in a timely manner and to include these expectations and assessment guidelines on their class syllabi.
  3. It is the right and responsibility of faculty to participate in a fair and equitable process concerning any allegations of violations of academic integrity.
  4. It is the responsibility of faculty to include a link to the academic integrity policy and a statement clarifying the application of academic integrity criteria to the course in the syllabi. Faculty should help students understand the importance of academic honesty in the learning process relevant to course content. Faculty are encouraged to review the policy at the beginning of the course and reiterate the policy throughout assignments within the course.
Students
  1. The student has the responsibility to familiarize themselves with and comply with College and class policies on academic integrity, and to seek clarification if needed.
  2. The student has the right to be informed of any alleged violations and possible sanctions concerning academic integrity and to receive due process (fair treatment) concerning those allegations.
  3. The student has the right to appeal a grade at any point during the semester.
Violations of Academic Integrity

Violations of academic integrity can include, but are not limited to, cheating and plagiarism. Cheating is an intentional effort to deceive or gain an unfair advantage in completing academic work. Plagiarism is the act of using the work of another person and passing it off as your own. Any violation may lead to disciplinary action. Here are common examples of academic integrity violations, including but not limited to:

  1. copying original ideas, images, words or design elements and using them without proper citation or permission of the author.
  2. unauthorized collaboration on an assignment.
  3. deceiving the instructor to get more time for an assignment or examination.
  4. using unauthorized electronic devices or software during an examination.
  5. allowing other students to copy exam responses or homework assignment answers so that they can pass it off as their own work.
  6. stealing an exam and selling it to fellow students.
  7. substantial and deliberate plagiarism on a project or paper.
  8. having a substitute take an exam.
  9. self-plagiarism (the presentation of your own previously published work as original; like plagiarism, self-plagiarism is unethical; learn more here).
Reporting

When a faculty member believes that a student is deliberately violating the academic integrity policy, it is their responsibility to do the following:

  1. document evidence of suspected wrongdoing and keep records of relevant communications with the student.
  2. contact the student concerning the suspected violation. Remind student about the consequences of violations with the student as outlined in the course syllabus. Allow the student time to respond.
  3. seek to resolve the matter informally with the student (if appropriate). Faculty may choose to notify their department head and/or the Dean of Students or their designee about any academic integrity violation, with no sanctions requested.
  4. if there is no informal resolution, submit documented evidence to the Dean of Students office (via the Behavioral Reporting Form). Severe academic integrity violations should always be submitted. Examples of severe violations include stealing an exam, extensive and deliberate plagiarism or repeated acts of plagiarism, or unauthorized use of a device during a test or exam.
  5. inform the student that the alleged violation has been reported to the College.

Other than College expulsion, disciplinary sanctions shall not be made part of the student’s permanent academic record, but shall become part of the confidential disciplinary record. Cases involving the imposition of sanctions other than College suspension or expulsion shall be expunged from the student’s confidential disciplinary record five (5) years from graduation or last date of attendance. The sanctions above may also be imposed upon student groups or organizations. In addition, student groups or organizations may be deactivated and lose all privileges for academic integrity violations, including College recognition for a specified period of time and/or have their charter revoked.

Judicial Procedures

The judicial process for issues involving academic integrity follows the standard judicial process detailed in Article IV of the Student Code of Conduct.

Academic Penalties/Disciplinary Sanctions

Academic penalties and disciplinary sanctions are progressive. In other words, students who violate the Student Code of Conduct on separate occasions are subject to more severe sanctions with each repeated offense, whether or not the violations are similar in nature. Any one or more of the following academic penalties or disciplinary sanctions may be imposed upon any student found to have committed an academic integrity violation (*sanctions ii-vi may be imposed by the Dean of Students or their designee):

  1. Academic Sanctions – the faculty member may impose an academic penalty as articulated in the class syllabus. These penalties may vary based on the number or severity of the violation(s). Examples of these penalties include, but are not limited to, receiving no credit for an assignment or failing the class.
  2. Warning – Judicial Affairs may issue a verbal or written warning to the student that they are violating or have violated institutional regulations.
  3. Probation – Probation lasts for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student is found to be violating any institutional regulation(s) during the probationary period.
  4. Discretionary Sanctions – Work assignments, service to the College or other related discretionary assignments (such assignments must have the prior approval of the Dean of Students or their designee).
  5. College Suspension – Separation of the student from the College for a designated period of time, after which the student may apply for readmission to the College. The College will then decide on the conditions for readmission.
  6. College Expulsion – Permanent separation of the student from the College. Expulsion requires the approval of the College President.
Appeals Procedures

The appeals procedure for issues involving academic integrity follows the standard appeals process detailed in Article IV of the Student Code of Conduct.

Violation of Law and College Discipline

  1. If a student is charged only with an off-campus violation of federal, state, or local laws, but not with any other violation of this Code, disciplinary action may be taken and sanctions imposed for misconduct which demonstrates flagrant disregard for the College community.
  2. College disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with violation of a law which is also a violation of this Student Code, for example, if both violations result from the same factual situation, without regard to the pendency of civil litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this Student Code may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus.
  3. When a student is charged by federal, state or local authorities with a violation of law, the College will not request or agree to special consideration for that individual because of his or her status as a student. If the alleged offense is also the subject of a proceeding before a judicial body under the Student Code, however, the College may advise off-campus authorities of the existence of the Student Code and of how such matters will be handled internally within the College community. The College will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other agencies in the enforcement of criminal law on campus and in the conditions imposed by the criminal courts for the rehabilitation of student violators. Individual students and faculty members, acting in their personal capacities, remain free to interact with governmental representatives as they deem appropriate.

ARTICLE IV: JUDICIAL POLICIES

Charges and Hearings

  1. Students are expected to abide by College rules and regulations both inside and outside the classroom. The College believes that a strong system of disciplinary procedures that includes both formal and informal approaches will facilitate reporting, and resolution of, complaints.
  2. Any member of the College community may file charges for misconduct against any student. Charges should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within 24 hours of the occurrence. Unless warranted by exceptional circumstances, the submission of charges shall not exceed 30 days after occurrence.
  3. The Judicial Affairs Officer may conduct an investigation to determine whether the charges have merit and/or whether they can be disposed of administratively by mutual consent of the parties involved through an informal disciplinary procedure. Such disposition shall be final and there shall be no subsequent proceedings. If the charges cannot be disposed of by mutual consent, the Judicial Affairs Officer may later submit the case to the Judicial Hearing Committee for a formal hearing.  
  4. In the event of a major incident, the Office of Security should be contacted immediately. Security shall investigate the incident to determine the best course of action. Security shall submit an incident report as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within 24 hours of notice of the occurrence.
  5. All charges shall be presented to the accused student in writing. A time shall be set for a hearing, normally, not less than five (5) or more than fifteen (15) school weekdays after the student has been notified. The time limits for the scheduling of hearings may be extended at the discretion of the Judicial Affairs Officer. A student may request to waive the minimum time limit of five (5) school weekdays in order to have a hearing sooner, but must do so in writing.

Informal Disciplinary Procedures

  1. Informal disciplinary procedures are appropriate when all parties involved voluntarily agree to engage in a conciliation and mediation process.  
  2. Informal procedures shall include resolution of the incident, including appropriate sanctions. 
  3. When a resolution is reached that is satisfactory to all concerned parties (Complainant, the charged student, and Judicial Affairs Officer), the disciplinary process shall be terminated. However, if a case cannot be resolved satisfactorily through the informal disciplinary procedures, it shall be forwarded to the Judicial Hearing Committee for a formal hearing.
  4. Whenever appropriate, minor violations committed on College property or during off campus college-sanctioned events shall be dealt with through an informal disciplinary process.
  5. Depending on the incident, the Judicial Affairs Officer may either meet with the Complainant and the charged student to resolve the issue or refer the student to a member of the Community College of Philadelphia counseling staff for mediation.

Formal Hearings

  1. Formal hearings shall be conducted by the Judicial Hearing Committee according to the following guidelines:
    1. In hearings involving more than one accused student, the Chairperson of the Judicial Hearing Committee, at his or her discretion, may permit the hearings concerning each student to be conducted separately.    
    2. The accused student, the Complainant, and any other College witnesses will be informed of the date and time of the hearing through College email. Hearings shall be conducted in private. The Complainant, the accused students, and their advisors, if any, shall be allowed to attend the Hearing (excluding any deliberations). The Complainant and the accused have the right to be assisted by any advisor they choose, including designated advisors from the College. The advisor may be an attorney; in such cases, the individuals engaging such advice are responsible for any expenses that they incur. Whenever the Complainant and/or the accused decide to have representation at the hearing, he/she must inform the Judicial Affairs Officer at least seventy-two (72) hours prior to the scheduled hearing. The Complainant and/or the accused is responsible for presenting his/her own case and, therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any hearing before a judicial body. If the advisor attempts to directly participate in the hearing, the advisor shall be directed to leave. If he/she refuses, the hearing shall be discontinued and adjudication left to the discretion of the Judicial Hearing Committee, as applicable. (In the event an alleged victim of sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking, is not also the Complainant in the case, the victim will be afforded the same procedural rights as a Complainant).    
    3. The Complainant and the accused shall have the privilege of presenting witnesses and engaging in reasonable examination by directing questions to the Chairperson at the judicial hearing. Members of the Judicial Hearing Committee may also engage in the questioning of the parties and witnesses and may also consider evidence from other witnesses and interested parties.
    4. The accused student will not be compelled to answer questions, and no inference may be drawn from the accused student's failure to answer questions. No person will be compelled to answer questions that could incriminate themselves.
    5. Pertinent records, exhibits and written statements may be accepted as evidence for consideration by the Judicial Hearing Committee at the discretion of the Chairperson.
    6. All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the Chairperson of the Judicial Hearing Committee.
    7. The Judicial Hearing Committee may accommodate concerns for the personal safety, well-being, and/or fears of confrontation of the accused student, Complainant, alleged victim, or other witnesses during the hearing by providing separate facilities, permitting participation by telephone, video conferencing or other means.
    8. After the hearing, the Judicial Hearing Committee shall determine whether the student has violated each section of the Student Code which the student is charged with violating.
    9. The Judicial Hearing Committee's determination shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the accused student violated the Student Code.
  2. Except in the case of a student charged with failing to obey the summons of the Judicial Affairs Officer or College official, no student may be found to have violated the Student Code solely because the student failed to appear before a judicial body. In all cases, the evidence in support of the charges shall be presented and considered.

Sanctions

  1. Any one or more of the following sanctions may be imposed upon any student found to have violated the Student Code:
    1. Warning – A notice in writing to the student that the student is violating or has violated institutional regulations.
    2. Probation – A written reprimand for violation of specified regulations. Probation lasts for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student is found to be violating any institutional regulation(s) during the probationary period.
    3. Loss of Privileges – Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time.
    4. Restitution – Compensation for loss, damage or injury. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement.
    5. Discretionary Sanctions – Work assignments, service to the College or other related discretionary assignments (Such assignments must have the prior approval of the Judicial Affairs Officer).
    6. Academic sanctions assigned by faculty.
    7. College Suspension – Separation of the student from the College for a designated period of time, after which the student may apply for readmission to the College. Conditions for readmission may be specified.
    8. College Expulsion – Permanent separation of the student from the College. Expulsion requires the approval of the College President.
  2. More than one of the sanctions listed above may be imposed for any single violation.
  3. Progressive Discipline – Students who violate the Student Code of Conduct on separate occasions are subject to more severe sanctions with each repeated offense, whether or not the violations may be similar in nature.
  4. Other than College expulsion, disciplinary sanctions shall not be made part of the student's permanent academic record, but shall become part of the confidential disciplinary record. Cases involving the imposition of sanctions other than College suspension or expulsion shall be expunged from the student's confidential disciplinary record five (5) years from graduation or last date of attendance
  5. The following sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations:
    1. Those sanctions listed above in Section 4a.) i. through v.
    2. Deactivation and loss of all privileges, including College recognition, for a specified period of time.
  6. In each case in which a Judicial Hearing Committee determines that a student has violated the Student Code, the sanction(s) shall be determined and imposed by the Judicial Affairs Officer.
  7. In cases in which persons other than, or in addition to, the Judicial Affairs Officer have been authorized to serve as the judicial body, the recommendation of all members of the judicial body shall be considered by the Judicial Affairs Officer in determining and imposing sanctions. However, the Judicial Affairs Officer is not limited to imposing the sanctions recommended by the judicial body.
  8. Following the hearing, the Judicial Affairs Officer shall advise the accused in writing of his or her determination and of the sanction(s) imposed, if any, within five (5) school weekdays. At the same time, the student shall be informed of his/her right to appeal and provided with: (1) Appeals Form A; (2) written information about the appeals procedures; (3) and the names and College locations and telephone numbers of the Student Appeals Advisors.
  9. Where the conduct involved a charge of a crime of violence, as defined by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ("FERPA"), the Judicial Affairs Officer will also provide written notice to the accuser of the final outcome and any sanctions (after any appeals). (Crimes of Violence include arson, assault offenses, burglary, criminal homicide, destruction/damage/vandalism of property, kidnapping/abduction, and sexual offenses.)
  10. Where the conduct matter involved a charge of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, the alleged victim will be notified in writing at the same time as the accused student of: (a) the outcome of any disciplinary proceedings arising from the accusation(s) and the rationale for the decision; (b) the procedures to appeal the outcome, if so desired; any changes to the outcome prior to the outcome becoming final; and the final determination and sanction, if any, following any appeal or when the appeal period elapses.
  11. Complainants who are College Officials, including Faculty, and are determined to have a legitimate educational interest in learning the final outcome of a disciplinary matter may be advised of the final outcome. A legitimate educational interest arises where the College Official has a need to know information in order to fulfill his/her/their professional responsibilities.

Interim Suspension

In certain circumstances, the Vice President for Academic and Student Success, or a designee, may impose a College suspension prior to the hearing before a Judicial Hearing Committee.

  1. Interim suspension may be imposed only:
    1. to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the College community or preservation of College property;
    2. to ensure the student's own physical or emotional safety and well-being; or  
    3. if the student poses a definite threat of disruption of or interference with the normal operations of the College.
  2. During the interim suspension, students shall be denied access to the campus (including classes) and/or all other College activities or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible as the Vice President for Academic and Student Success or the Judicial Affairs Officer may determine to be appropriate.

Informal Procedures for Handling Disruptive Behavior and Obstruction of Teaching in the Classroom

Any behavior that threatens or disrupts the normal academic process must be discouraged and stopped. Interference with faculty of the College in the performance of their duties must be regarded as unacceptable and a disregard for the rights of other students in the class. When such behavior occurs in the classroom, it will be managed promptly following these procedures:

  1. The student shall be asked and given an opportunity by the instructor to stop the specific disruptive behavior immediately. This may include asking the responsible student to step outside the classroom for a brief, private conversation to explain that such disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
  2. If the disruptive behavior persists, the instructor may ask the responsible student to leave class for that class period. When necessary, the College's security personnel will be called to escort the student out of the classroom. Faculty may also consult with the respective Department Head for assistance in managing the behavior.
  3. If upon return to the subsequent class session the student continues to exhibit disruptive behavior, the instructor may for a second time ask the responsible student to leave the class. When necessary, the College's security personnel will be called to escort the student out of the classroom.
  4. Following a second removal from class, the instructor shall immediately complete a Behavioral Reporting Form, which will be forwarded to the Judicial Affairs Officer. In the report, the instructor may request an interim period of removal from class.
  5. When the nature or severity of an incident makes it inappropriate to allow a student to return to a classroom, as determined by the Judicial Affairs Officer, the student may be subject to an interim period of removal from class pending the outcome of formal hearing.

Disciplinary Records

All records of disciplinary action shall remain confidential and separate from academic records. Such records shall be maintained in the Office of the Dean of Students and shall not be available to unauthorized persons on campus or to any person off campus, without the student's expressed written permission. Exceptions shall be made only under the conditions specified in the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, by the Clery Act, Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act, under a court order or subpoena, or as otherwise required by law. All records of case decisions shall be maintained by the Office of the Dean of Students for five (5) years from graduation or last date of attendance.

STUDENT APPEALS PROCEDURE

  1. Student Appeals Committee
    In the interest of due process for students, the College has established and maintains a Student Appeals Committee and an appeals process.
    1. The Student Appeals Committee shall be composed of four students appointed by the recognized Student Government Association or such office or committee as represents the interest of all Community College of Philadelphia students; four faculty members shall be appointed by the Faculty and Staff Federation; and four administrators shall be appointed by the President of the College.
    2. In appointing representatives to the Appeals Committee, the three appointing bodies named above will consider College-wide balance. The intention is to have a Committee dedicated to the fair administration of the appeals process, and able to grasp collectively a full range of academic and disciplinary appeals issues. The principle of balance may place members on the Committee from a range of disciplines and fields of study.
    3. The three appointing bodies are encouraged to appoint alternates, as well as members, to the Appeals Committee and draw upon the pool of active alternates in appointing new members. Active alternates are those who have gained perspective and experience by attending hearings and meetings of the Committee.
    4. Terms of office for Student Appeals Committee members will be as follows: members will serve four-semester terms, staggered so that the term of one of the four delegated members will end each semester and, except in the case of reappointments, a new member will begin each term.
  2. Appeals Advisors
    In consultation with the Division Deans, Appeals Advisors will be assigned to assist students with the appeals process. Student Appeals Advisors will lend orientation and assistance to students wishing to make use of the College appeals process. It will be the work of an Appeals Advisor to help the student evaluate his or her case, inform the student about preparing his or her supporting materials, and act as an advisor, but not an advocate, during any hearings held for the student. The student may be accompanied to a hearing by a Student Appeals Advisor or another consultant of his/her choice. Appeals Advisors are not permitted to participate in appeals hearings.
  3. Appeals Hearings
    1. Appeals hearings will generally be held with at least five (5) school weekdays' advance notice to the parties concerned.
    2. Appeals Committee members will be given time to read written appeals materials before hearing the student and other witnesses.
    3. All documents generated in earlier stages of an appeal will be made available to the Committee.
    4. Hearings will be informal, without sworn testimony or active participation of advisor, legal counsel or other consultant, but with full opportunity for the student and others concerned in the case to present relevant arguments and information.
    5. The Appeals Committee may schedule more than one hearing date and time if it is presented with new evidence for which the student appellant, legal counsel, or the concerned faculty members or administrators may need time to prepare an appropriate response. If necessary, Committee deliberations may be continued on another day.
    6. Administrative support will be given to the Student Appeals Committee as needed, for correspondence, copying, and controlled distribution of documents and maintenance of records.
  4. Appeals Procedure for Disciplinary Matters
    1. When a student has been informed of a disciplinary decision in his/her case, the student may abide by the decision or, within five (5) school weekdays, complete and submit Appeals Form A to the Student Appeals Committee, through the Office of the Dean of Students. Appeals Form A encompasses the student's appeal and the rationale for the appeal, including an attached narrative which describes in detail the circumstances that led to the disciplinary action. In filing Form A, the student also makes a commitment to attend the interview or other hearings that shall be held on the appeal. In circumstances of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking, the alleged victim has the same right to appeal the Judicial Hearing Officer's decision or respond to the accused student's appeal. An accused student will have five days to respond to the alleged victim's appeal in such cases.
    2. In cases involving a reprimand or probation, the Student Appeals Committee will arrange and hold a hearing not later than ten (10) school weekdays after receiving the student's (or alleged victim's) written appeal. When the College's disciplinary action involves suspension or expulsion, the Student Appeals Committee will arrange and hold a hearing for the student not later than five (5) school weekdays after receiving the student's written appeal, with the following exceptions:
      1.   i. If the Vice President for Academic and Student Success chooses to allow a suspended student to attend classes pending the outcome of an appeal, the hearing will be held within ten (10) school weekdays after the Student Appeals Committee receives the student's written appeal.
      2. ii. If the student intends to submit additional supportive documentation so extensive that Student Appeals Committee members cannot fairly evaluate it during a hearing, the student may expect a hearing to be scheduled as much as three (3) school weekdays later than the day such documentation is received by the Committee.
    3. The Student Appeals Committee, in conducting a hearing, will consider all information submitted by the student appellant, the College, the Complainant, and the relevant witnesses, and will inform the student and the Judicial Affairs Officer of its decision promptly and informally, as well as in writing within five (5) school weekdays. Where the conduct involved a charge of sexual assault, sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, the alleged victim will be notified at the same time as the accused student and provide the rational for its decision.
    4. If the student disputes the decision of the Student Appeals Committee, the student may, within ten (10) school weekdays after a decision has been rendered, petition the President of the College or his designee for a review of that decision. Where the conduct involved a charge of sexual assault, sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, the alleged victim may, within ten (10) school weekdays after a decision has been rendered, petition the President of the College or his designee for a review of the decision. The other party may respond to the other's appeal within five (5) school weekdays. The decision of the President shall be final.
    5. Where the conduct involved a charge of a crime of violence, as defined by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ("FERPA"), the President or his designee will also provide written notice to the accuser of the final decision and any sanctions.
    6. Where the conduct matter involved a charge of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, the alleged victim will be notified in writing at the same time as the accused student of the final determination and any sanctions (and the rationale for the decision).
    7. Complainants who are College Officials, including Faculty, and are determined to have a legitimate educational interest in learning the final outcome of a disciplinary matter may be advised of the final outcome. A legitimate educational interest arises where the College Official has a need to know information in order to fulfill his/her/their professional responsibilities.
  5. Grade Appeals Procedures 
    Purpose: In the interest of due process, the College provides an appeal process for a student who believes that a recorded final course grade does not accurately reflect his/her/their academic performance in a course. This policy is applicable to credit bearing offerings. Grades can be appealed in instances where a student believes that an inaccurate final grade has been issued such as arbitrary grade issuance, inconsistent grading practice, or mechanical error. The office of the Dean of Students shall officiate the process for grade appeals. For issues of academic dishonesty, please refer to the College’s Student Code of Conduct.

    1. Student Appeals Comittee: The College has established and maintains the following Student Appeals Committee and appeals process.
      1. The Student Appeals Committee shall be composed of a diverse pool of four students appointed by the recognized Student Government Association or such office or committee as represents the interest of all Community College of Philadelphia students; four faculty members shall be appointed by the Faculty and Staff Federation; and four administrators shall be appointed by the President of the College. A hearing committee will consist of one member from each of the representing groups listed above. The committee will receive training from the Division of Academic and Student Success.
      2. In appointing representatives to the Appeals Committee, the three appointing bodies named above will consider College-wide balance. The intention is to have a Committee dedicated to the fair administration of the appeals process and able to grasp collectively a full range of academic and disciplinary appeals issues. Every attempt will be made to have the appropriate representation on each appeal committee to ensure equity.
      3. The three appointing bodies are encouraged to appoint alternates, as well as members, to the Appeals Committee and draw upon the pool of active alternates in appointing new members. Active alternates are those who have gained perspective and experience by attending hearings and meetings of the Committee.
      4. Terms of office for Student Appeals Committee members will be as follows: members will serve four semester terms, staggered so that the term of one of the four delegated members will end each semester and, except in the case of reappointments (in the case of a vacancy), a new member will begin each term.  
    1. Appeals Advisor: In order to assist students with the appeals process a team of advisors will be identified by a committee of academic and student deans. The Appeals Advisors will receive the appropriate training and guidelines for appeal petitions. In consultation with the Dean of Students, Appeals Advisors will be assigned to assist students with the appeals process. The names of available Appeal Advisors will be made available to the student once they request an appeal packet from the Office of the Dean of Students. It will be the work of an Appeals Advisor to assist the student, evaluate their case, guide the student in preparing their supporting materials, and act as a facilitator, but not as an advocate, during any hearings. The student may be accompanied to a hearing by a Student Appeals Advisor or another consultant of their choice. The Appeals Advisor or guest is not permitted to participate in appeals hearings. 

Policy (82-A, Memorandum 4) 

As the initiator of the process, the burden of proof is on the student to demonstrate the grade is inaccurate. It is incumbent upon the student, while attempting to resolve the issue, to strictly adhere to the established appeal procedure. 

Procedure (82-A, Memorandum 4) 

The following procedures must be completed within the published guidelines and timeframes or the appeal will not be reviewed (by the Dean of Students or the Dean of the corresponding division). In order to support an effective resolution, the student should clearly outline how the appeal meets the aforementioned conditions of a grade appeal as well as the intended outcome being sought. Use of the Grade Appeal Form is required.  
Instructions: The following process must be completed within the published guidelines and timeframe. Use of the Grade Appeal Form is required.  
Step 1: Student and Instructor hold a preliminary meeting. 
The student may initiate an appeal of a final course grade or instructor withdrawal no later than one (1) semester (not counting summer sessions) beyond the completion of the course for which a disputed grade was given. The student should complete the Step One section of the Grade Appeal Form and send via official College email and must include an attachment(s) with supportive materials to the course faculty. Supportive materials should include course syllabus, copies of written exchanges and any other additional pertinent materials (graded documents, feedback, etc.). The faculty member must provide the student with the appropriate documents (or allow to review) for their case. The student-course faculty meeting must occur within 10 business* days (or an agreed upon timeframe not to exceed 15 business days) of the initial email contact and can occur through a face-to-face, video conference, or phone exchange. 
Step 2: Student, Faculty and Department Chairperson 
If unable to resolve the matter with the course faculty or if the course faculty does not reply within 10 business* days, and no later than the 13th day the student must forward the initial email submitted to the course faculty including attachments to the Department Chairperson who oversees the course discipline. The student will then schedule a meeting with the Department Chairperson as soon as possible or within an agreed upon time frame not to exceed 15 business days. The chairperson will hear the student’s complaint; investigate the claims and attempt to resolve the matter with the instructor. If unable to resolve the matter at the departmental level, the chairperson will forward the student’s materials to include a rationale for the denial of the appeal to the Division Dean. 
Step 3: Division Dean receives complaint 
The Division Dean will schedule a meeting in an attempt to resolve the matter. The Division Dean will hear the complaint, will seek information from the instructor and department chair, and may arrange a conference with the all parties if necessary. The Division Dean will send a concluding letter to the student outlining their decision, with copies to concerned parties. This step must be completed within fifteen (15) business weekdays. If the appeal remains unresolved, the divisional dean will complete Section Three of the Grade Appeal Form and email it along with the supportive materials from both the student and course faculty to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will then appoint a chairperson of the Student Appeals Committee within 10 business* days of receiving the materials. 
Step 4: The Dean of Students will convene the Student Appeals Committee to hear the grade appeal. 
    1. Through the Office of the Dean of Students, grade appeal hearings will be scheduled once a month or as needed. An alternative date will be identified in instances of campus closure. If agreed upon by all parties, a meeting can be held via remote conferencing medium (such as GoToMeeting or Zoom). Adhering to the established schedule is critical to resolving appeals in a timely fashion. 
    2. The Committee will be comprised of a full-time faculty member, a student and an administrator taken from the trained pool from each representative body. The chairperson of the committee will be appointed by the committee membership. 
    3. Five (5) business* days prior to the meeting, the Dean of Students will electronically distribute to all involved parties the completed Grade Appeal Form including corresponding attachments including any submitted by both the faculty member and student for review prior to the hearing. 
    4. At the hearing, the student and course faculty will, at separate times, have an opportunity to further present their positions and address questions posed by Committee members. The student is permitted to bring one guest to the hearing that will serve in the capacity of supporter. The student may confer with the supporter but the guest may not speak. The department chair or their representative may attend the proceedings. All materials presented and discussion at the hearing and among the Committee is to be kept confidential as per FERPA guidelines. At the request of the chairperson, the student or course faculty may be asked to provide additional supporting documentation or evidence during or after the hearing. 
    5. The Committee will have 2 business* days from the conclusion of the hearing to discuss and make a written recommendation to the Vice President for Academic and Student Success for final disposition. The recommendation must include an evidenced-based rationale and be signed by voting Committee members. Electronic and hard copy documents produced in association with the appeal process must be turned over to the Chairperson. 
    6. The Vice President for Academic and Student Success will review evidence and take the Committee’s recommendation under advisement. Within 5 business* days of receipt of the recommendation, the Vice President for Academic and Student Success will render to the student in writing, with copies to all parties involved in the hearing, the grade appeal decision, which is final. 

If the final decision results in changes to the student’s academic record, the Office of the Student Records and Registration must be notified within 5 business* days. Changes to the student’s record should be made within 5 business* days and official notification must be forwarded by email, certified letter, and/or transcript to the student’s CCP email and mailing address. 

A permanent record of the proceedings including a hard copy of the final written decision of the Vice President for Academic and Student Success is kept in a confidential file in the Office of Academic and Student Success. 

*Business day is defined as a day of College operation with classes in session excluding weekends. Based on extenuating circumstances, the timeline can be modified by the Dean of Students. 

Article V: Confidential Complaint Procedure

The purpose of the following procedure is to resolve as fairly, and as quickly as possible, any matter in which a student claims that his/her academic rights in the classroom have been violated or that they have not been treated properly. (Students whose claims might more appropriately be pursued with the Title IX/DEI Officer or other agencies will be so advised.) 
    1. The student who wishes to lodge a complaint under this procedure should do so in order to ensure that if the complaint is valid, a practical remedy will be available. In any case, such complaints may be lodged no later than one (1) semester beyond the completion of the course in which the student alleges a violation of his/her academic rights or other issue of complaint has occurred. 
    2. As a first step, the student must seek to discuss the case with the instructor/staff member to resolve the dispute. 
    3. If the student is not able to resolve the matter with the instructor/staff member, the student may complete the Confidential Complaint Form, which will be addressed by the Department Head. Within ten (10) business days of receiving the student’s Confidential Complaint Form, the Department Head will hear the student’s complaint, investigate the claims, attempt to resolve the matter with the instructor/staff member, and Complaint Resolution Form that will be sent to the student with copies to the instructor/staff member and Division Dean/Director. 
    4. If the matter remains unresolved and the student wishes to further the complaint, he/she must write to the Division Dean/Director within ten (10) business days of the previous decision. The Division Dean/Director will reply in writing to hear the complaint; will seek information from the instructor/staff member, and Department Head; may arrange a conference with the student, the Department Head and the instructor/staff member; and will attempt to resolve the matter. The Division Dean/Director will send a concluding letter to the student, with copies to concerned parties. This should be completed within fifteen (15) business days of the student’s request to the Division Dean/Director. 
    5. If the matter remains unresolved and the student wishes to further the complaint, then, at the student’s written request within ten (10) business days of the previous decision, the matter will be forwarded to the Vice President for Academic and Student Success or the Vice President of the area of complaint. In attempting to resolve the matter, the respective Vice President may request the presence of the involved parties and seek information from them about the claim, evidence and proposed solutions generated in previous steps of the process. The Vice President will report his/her resolution of the matter to the student in writing, with copies to concerned parties. This step should be completed within fifteen (15) business days of the student’s request to the Vice President. 
    6. The decision of the Vice President shall be final unless the student appeals. The student may, within ten (10) business days after the decision has been rendered, petition the President for a review of that decision. The ruling of the President shall be final.