Academic Records (Inspecting/Reviewing)
Students who wish to inspect or review their official academic records should submit a written request to the Registrar. For additional information on student record viewing and privacy see the Student Record Privacy - Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) section.
Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy
Policy Statement
The Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy covers situations such that, in the judgment of others, a student requires medical assistance because of drug or alcohol use. It is intended to encourage students to come forward without fear of disciplinary action being taken against the intoxicated student or those who seek to help them. This policy affirms that failure to call for medical assistance in an alcohol or drug-related emergency may constitute a violation of our community standards.
Policy Details
Terra State Community College is an institution committed to promoting the intellectual, physical and social development of all individuals. As such, Terra State Community College seeks to prevent the abuse of drugs and alcohol, which can adversely affect performance and threaten the health and safety of students, employees, their families, and the general public. TSCC complies with all federal, state, and local laws concerning the unlawful possession, use, and distribution of drugs and alcohol.
As a community, Terra State Community College encourages students to assist other students who may be in need, either on or off campus. The college recognizes disciplinary sanctions may serve as a barrier to students seeking medical/crisis assistance for themselves or others in alcohol and drug related emergencies. Whenever a student seeks medical or crisis assistance for another student who is in violation of school policy related to alcohol or drug-related violations, both parties may be exempt from disciplinary sanctions as they pertain to the safety of the individuals.
Procedures
Students contacting emergency personnel including Campus Safety and Security, in the following situations are covered under the Terra State Community College Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy.
- An individual student who voluntarily contacts emergency medical assistance for themselves related to alcohol or drug use.
- An individual student who voluntarily contacts emergency medical assistance on behalf of another person related to alcohol or drug use.
In all cases in which the Terra State Community College Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy applies, all students involved in an incident, including the person(s) who made the contact and the student(s) experiencing the emergency, will meet with the Dean of Student Success or his/her designee. At the meeting, the incident will be reviewed, and an appropriate response will be determined. This may include the following:
- Alcohol and Other Drugs (Assessment) & Mental Health Counseling
- Substance abuse education
- Participation in an education awareness group or class
- Educational assignment(s)
The student involved will not receive formal student conduct action, regardless of conduct history, provided the student completes all meetings and conditions. If a student fails to attend their scheduled meeting or fails to complete the required outcomes of the meeting, they will be in violation of the Student Conduct Policy for failure to comply. The student code of conduct can be found at https://terra.edu/codeofconduct.
The Terra State Community College Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy does not excuse or protect students who repeatedly violate the College’s Student Code of Conduct; abuse of the Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy is not condoned. The Office of Safety and Security and the residential life staff are expected to follow their processes and procedures for any situation whether or not the Terra State Community College Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy may be applicable.
The Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy does not apply to students experiencing alcohol or drug-related emergencies that are found by a College official.
When a student’s role is that of an alleged respondent in any alleged violation(s) of the Terra State Community College Code of Conduct concerning sexual misconduct, verbal or physical abuse or harassment, distribution of controlled substances, property damage, or an action that results in the student’s arrest, the situation does not fall under the Terra State Community College Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy.
Alcohol poisoning and drug overdose are severe and life-threatening medical emergencies. Students may encounter this type of emergency during their time at Terra State Community College. Sometimes students are afraid to seek emergency medical care when alcohol poisoning or drug overdose is suspected because they do not want to get themselves or others in trouble. In order to encourage students to seek emergency medical care, Terra State Community College has instituted the Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Use Violation Policy for Alcohol and Drug Emergencies.
Resources
- Student Code of Conduct
- TSCC BIT Team
- TSCC Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program
- TSCC Annual Security Report
Complaint Policies and Appeals
Policy Statement
A student may file a complaint related to an administrative process. An administrative process complaint is a grievance resulting from an incident or event at Terra State Community College related to a Board of Trustees policy, an administrative procedure, or an administrative regulation.
Policy Details
A student considering a complaint should always seek an explanation of the policy, procedure, or regulation from a College official. After being provided with an explanation, the student should seek a resolution to the matter. If the matter is not resolved informally, the student may proceed with a formal complaint using the following procedure:
- Obtain a Student Complaint Form available at the office of the Dean of Student Success, located in B105 or visit Student Complaint Form.
- Complete the Student Complaint Form and submit it in person or electronically to the Dean of Student Success.
- The Dean of Student Success, or designee, will contact the student within five business days of receiving the written complaint.
The Dean of Student Success or designee may indicate the need for an interview with the student or witnesses and may identify additional time needed for an investigation of the matter. A response to the complaint by the College will be provided in writing by the Dean of Student Success, or designee.
If the student is not satisfied with the College’s written response to the complaint, the student may compose a letter of appeal describing the initial complaint and explaining the reason for his/her dissatisfaction with the College’s written response. This letter should be addressed to the President and must be submitted within 10 business days after receiving the College’s written response. The President, or designee, will act on the appeal and render a final decision in writing to the student.
Non-Retaliation: Terra State Community College strictly adheres to and enforces a non-retaliation clause. Retaliation against an individual who has complained about sexual discrimination, harassment, and/or misconduct and retaliation against individuals for cooperating with an investigation of a sexual discrimination and/or harassment complaint is unlawful and will not be tolerated by the College. Any person who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination if they are an employee, and/or dismissal if they are a student.
Policy Statement
A student may file a complaint related to instruction. An instructional complaint is a grievance resulting from an incident or event at Terra State Community College related to lecture, laboratory, clinical, or similar class.
Policy Details
A student considering a complaint should always seek an explanation from the instructor. After being provided with an explanation, the student should seek a resolution to the matter. If the matter is not resolved informally, the student may proceed with a formal complaint using the following procedure:
- Obtain a Student Complaint Form available in Liberal Arts and Business Division Office A202 or Technology and Skilled Trades Division Office E107, or visit Instructional Student Complaint Form.
- Complete the Student Complaint Form and submit it in person or electronically to the Academic Dean in the Academic Division for the course related to the complaint.
- The Academic Dean, or designee, will contact the student within five business days of receiving the written complaint.
The Academic Dean or designee may indicate the need for an interview with the student or witnesses and may identify additional time needed for an investigation of the matter. A response to the complaint by the College will be provided in writing by the Academic Dean, or designee.
If the student is not satisfied with the College’s written response to the complaint, the student may compose a letter of appeal describing the initial complaint and explaining the reason for the dissatisfaction with the College’s written response. This letter should be addressed to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and must be submitted within 10 business days after receiving the College’s written response. The Vice President for Academic Affairs, or designee, will act on the appeal and render a final decision in writing to the student.
Non-Retaliation: Terra State Community College strictly adheres to and enforces a non-retaliation clause. Retaliation against an individual who has complained about sexual discrimination, harassment, and/or misconduct and retaliation against individuals for cooperating with an investigation of a sexual discrimination and/or harassment complaint is unlawful and will not be tolerated by the College. Any person who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination if they are an employee, and/or dismissal if they are a student.
Policy Statement
A member of the general public may file a complaint related to communication, personal interactions, policies and procedures, or facilities provided by Terra State Community College. An anonymous complaint will not be accepted.
Policy Details
Formal Complaint
A member of the general public considering a complaint is encouraged to seek an explanation from a College official. After being provided with an explanation, the individual may seek a resolution to the matter. If the matter is not resolved informally, the individual may proceed with a formal complaint using the following procedure:
- Obtain a General Public Complaint Form available from the Office of the President, Building B, Room 207 or at General Public Complaint Form.
- Complete the General Public Complaint Form and submit it in person or electronically to the Executive Assistant in the Office of the President who will then forward it to the appropriate member of the President’s Cabinet.
- A member of the President’s Cabinet, or designee, will contact the individual within five business days of receiving the complaint.
The member of the President’s Cabinet or designee may indicate the need for an interview with the individual or witnesses and may identify additional time needed for an investigation of the matter. A response to the complaint by the College will be provided in writing by a member of the President’s Cabinet or designee.
If the complainant is not satisfied with the College’s written response to the complaint, the individual may compose a letter of appeal describing the initial complaint and explaining the reason for their dissatisfaction with the College’s written response. This letter should be addressed to the College President and must be submitted within 10 business days after receiving the College’s written response. The College President, or designee, will act on the appeal and render a final decision in writing to the complainant.
Board of Trustees Public Commentary Request
The Board of Trustees gives high priority to participation by the general public. A person(s) desiring to speak to the assembled board must seek special permission from the chairperson. The permission must be in writing and sought at least one week in advance of a regular board meeting. The board will limit the time each person is allowed to speak. Written requests to speak should be submitted electronically or in-person to the Executive Assistant in the Office of the President.
Non-Retaliation
Terra State Community College strictly adheres to and enforces a non-retaliation clause. Retaliation against an individual who has complained about sexual discrimination, harassment, and/or misconduct and retaliation against individuals for cooperating with an investigation of a sexual discrimination and/or harassment complaint is unlawful and will not be tolerated by the College. Any person who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination if they are an employee, and/or dismissal if they are a student.
Students who wish to contest a grade should follow these steps within 90 days of receiving the grade or decision:
- Speak with the instructor involved and try to resolve the issue.
- If the issue cannot be settled satisfactorily with the instructor, meet with the dean in the appropriate academic division. The dean will initiate a review within five working days and render a judgment in a timely fashion.
- If, after the dean has reviewed the situation, the student wishes to have another level of review, the student may appeal to the Vice President for Academic Affairs. The Vice President for Academic Affairs will make a timely review of the situation with all involved parties. At the end of this review, the judgment of the Vice President for Academic Affairs, which will be provided in writing, is final and binding.
A student disagreeing with the application of transfer and/or articulated credit by the receiving institution must file his/her appeal in writing within ninety (90) days of receipt of the Statement of Transfer and Articulated Credit Applicability. The institution shall respond to the appeal within thirty (30) days of the receipt of the appeal. Appeals may be sent to recordsdept@terra.edu.
Computer Resources Acceptable Use Policy
Policy Statement
This policy provides specific requirements for the use of computing and network resources at Terra State Community College. All college computing resources are provided for the exclusive use of Terra students, staff, and other users authorized by the college and staff. College computing resources include all college-owned or managed hardware, software, network resources, data, information, email, and college assigned user accounts, and use of the college network via wired, wireless, or remote connections regardless of the ownership of the device connected to the network.
It is the responsibility of every computer user to know and understand this policy and conduct their activities accordingly. All users consent to this policy by logging onto, or utilizing any Terra State Community College computing resources. All users must read, acknowledge and accept an “acceptable use” statement if presented onscreen when accessing college computing resources.
Policy Details
All users covered by this policy must adhere to the following acceptable use guidelines:
- Utilize computing resources for purposes authorized by the college according to individual job descriptions or as directed by supervisors or the leadership of the college.
- Only access computing resources for which they have been granted authorized access.
- Only utilize college licensed and supported software for administrative, operational, and academic use.
- Use of any free or open-source software must be authorized and approved.
- If a college provided enterprise AI license is assigned to a user, then that user must use only that AI tool for all college-related purposes, and college information must not be uploaded into any other free, personally licensed, or other third-party AI tool or website.
- Users must ensure that any third-party AI tool utilized does not compromise institutional data security, violate FERPA or other applicable privacy laws, or conflict with existing acceptable use policies.
- Faculty and staff are responsible for verifying that tools used for instructional or administrative purposes have been reviewed and approved by the IT department.
- Students may only use third-party AI tools for coursework when explicitly permitted by course guidelines or faculty instructions.
- When using a free, personally licensed, or other third-party AI tool, refer to the third-party AI Tool Guidance document for more specifics on what is allowable.
- Be considerate of others when utilizing shared computing resources and refrain from overloading networks with excessive data, degrading services, or wasting printer paper and toner, disk space, or other shared resources.
- Only utilize legal versions of copyrighted software in accordance with vendor licensing requirements.
- Protect sensitive and confidential information in accordance with applicable Federal laws, including but not limited to FERPA, State, and Local laws.
- Protect all authentication and authorization mechanisms from unauthorized use, including, but not limited to, user ids, passwords, and digital signatures.
- Immediately update passwords when there is a suspected compromise of those credentials.
- Report any suspected or identified security incidents immediately to the Information Technology Help Desk at 419-559-2309.
- Report any theft or vandalism of college computing resources immediately to the Information Technology Help Desk.
- Ensure that any personal devices connected to the college network is running a supported and updated operating system, and is also running current and updated malware protection software.
- Be cognizant of phishing techniques and carefully examine all emails before responding to requests or opening attachments, particularly when the email is unexpected.
- When unsure of an email’s validity, contact the IT help desk for guidance.
- When an email is suspicious use the Spam Reporting tool with the email client to report the suspect email to the IT help desk.
- Report any issues with computing resources immediately to the IT help desk.
- In particular, users need to be aware of a slow, or otherwise poorly performing, computer and report it immediately as this could be a symptom of malware infecting the device.
- Be responsible for the content of their electronic communications, including but not limited to emails and instant messaging, and may be subject to personal liability as a result of that use.
The following activities and/or uses of computing resources are prohibited and will not be tolerated by the college in any form. This list of prohibited activities below is by no means exhaustive, but attempt to provide a framework for activities which fall into the category of unacceptable use.
Employees may be exempted from these restrictions during the course of their legitimate job responsibilities (e.g., systems administration staff may have a need to disable the network access of a host if that host is disrupting production services). Under no circumstances is an employee authorized to engage in any activity that is illegal under local, state, federal or international law while utilizing TSCC resources.
- Accessing, downloading, storing, transmitting, sharing or otherwise making use of violent, pornographic, obscene, lewd, or otherwise offensive materials of any kind over the network or internet.
- Engaging in any form of harassment or intimidation activity over the network or internet.
- Accessing, downloading, storing, transmitting, sharing or otherwise making use of “hate-group” or other materials of any kind that may cause discomfort to any racial or ethnic group.
- Disseminate defamatory, discriminatory, vilifying, sexist, racist, abusive, rude, annoying, insulting, threatening, obscene or otherwise inappropriate messages or media.
- Engage in activities that cause an invasion of privacy.
- Engage in acts of terrorism, cybercrime, extortion, or identity theft.
- Illegal duplication or transmission of copyrighted or otherwise protected software.
- Knowingly download or install any software which have not been approved by the Information Technology Department.
- Destruction or theft of computer hardware, software, files or data.
- Attempting to gain access or use another person’s system, files, or data without permission.
- Sharing or otherwise revealing your log in credentials or other authentication and authorization means to any other individual.
- Attempting to circumvent or subvert any system or network security measures, or assisting others in such actions.
- Executing any form of network monitoring to intercept data unless as part of the employee’s normal job or duties.
- Engaging in any activity that is intended to harm systems or stored information including creating or propagating malware, disruption of services, inflicting damage to files, port scanning, or any other unauthorized modifications to college data and systems.
- Using the college’s systems for any commercial purposes not authorized by the college.
- Violation of any applicable laws, regulations or college policies and procedures governing the use of IT resources.
- Using the college’s computing resources to transmit commercial or personal solicitations or advertisements unrelated to college business.
- Sending unsolicited email messages, including the sending of “junk mail” or other advertising material to individuals who did not specifically request such material (email spam).
- Creating or forwarding “chain letters” or “pyramid” schemes of any type
- Storing sensitive or confidential data, including but not limited to student’s personally identifiable information (PII) data, on flash drives or other portable or external media unless specifically authorized by the Information Technology Department.
- Unauthorized use, or forging, of email header information.
- Storing of personal data or information on college computing resources.
- Transmitting sensitive or confidential information without making reasonable accommodations to ensure the security of the information.
- Entering any sensitive personal data or information, nor any information that will trace directly back to an individual student or staff member, into any free, personally licensed, or other third-party AI tool.
- Upload any official internal college documents containing confidential or sensitive information into any free, personally licensed, or other third-party AI tool.
All users of college computing resources are responsible for practicing basic cyber security safety practices. It is up to each user to safeguard the personal information of themselves and others. All faculty, staff, and students are required to utilize and comply with specific security controls including, but not limited to multi-factor authentication, and any future security protocols instituted by the college to assist in the protection of college assets, data, and information.
Terra State Community College reserves the right to audit users, networks, systems, and connected devices on a periodic basis to ensure compliance with this policy. By using any college computing resource, all users accept that activities may be monitored, logged, and reviewed by college-approved personnel, or may be discovered in legal proceedings.
Any user’s account that is suspected to be compromised will be immediately locked down by the IT department until remediation actions can be taken to secure the compromised account.
Violations of this policy may result in, but not limited to, immediate restriction or forfeiture of computer access privileges, disciplinary action, which may include suspension of privileges, restriction of access, or more severe penalties up to and including suspension or expulsion (students), or termination of employment (staff). Where illegal activities or theft of college property (physical or intellectual) are suspected, the college may report such activities to the applicable authorities.
All user accounts are the property of Terra State Community College and are subject to termination upon a student’s graduation or withdrawal, or an employee’s resignation or termination. The college is under no obligation to allow a departed user access to their closed account to retrieve personal files or email communications, nor is the College responsible for the loss of any user’s personal files.
The Information Technology department will monitor and revise this Acceptable Use Policy document on an as-needed basis to keep up with the changing needs of the technology in use at the College.
Procedures
Any violations of this policy are to be reported to the Chief Information Officer, or emailed to abuse@terra.edu.
Information Technology personnel will immediately disable access to any user account that is suspected of being compromised until remediation actions can be taken.
Any use of software that is free, open source, or otherwise not directly purchased or licensed by Terra State Community College must first be approved by a supervisor at the staff department or academic dean level or higher. That supervisor must then request and obtain approval from the Information Technology department before the software can be put in use.
Resources
Documentation
Electronic Communications Privacy Act - https://it.ojp.gov/PrivacyLiberty/authorities/statutes/1285
Computer Fraud and Abuse Act - https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/cioprod/documents/ComputerFraud-AbuseAct.pdf
Free AI Tool Guidance document - https://www.terra.edu/about_us/institutional_policies/_uploadedfiles/free_ai_tool_guidance.pdf
Definitions
| Term |
Definition |
| Spam |
Unauthorized and/or unsolicited electronic mass mailings |
| Internet |
A worldwide system of computer networks |
| Personally Identifiable Information (PII) |
Any data element that can be used to unequivocally identify a person such as, but not limited to, Social Security Number, Driver’s License Number, face, credit card number, digital identity. |
| Phishing |
A fraudulent practice of sending messages purporting to be from reputable companies for the purpose of misleading individuals into revealing personal or financial information or login credentials. |
| Network |
Two or more computers linked together to share resources, exchange files or data, or to allow electronic communication. |
| Email Header |
An area of an email that contains important information such as sender and receiver details, subject, date, return path, and reply-to field. The header will also contain technical details such as who sent the message, software used, message ID, and email servers that the message has passed through. |
| College Licensed and Supported Software |
Software that is licensed, provided, or centrally maintained by the college’s IT department for official academic, administrative, or operational purposes. This includes desktop or cloud-based applications installed on college-owned devices or accessed through college-issued accounts (e.g., learning management systems, productivity tools, or academic software). The software is maintained and supported by the college’s IT department, which offers installation assistance, troubleshooting, updates, and technical support. All use must comply with software licensing agreements, college policies, and applicable laws, and may be subject to monitoring and support by the IT department. |
Drugs and Alcohol Policy
All Terra State Community College students must abide by this statement: the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in or at Terra State Community College. Terra State Community College ,college grounds, and the Terra Village Landings will remain a drug free campus.
Policy Statement
Terra State Community College (TSCC) Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Policies and Procedures documents and describes the requirements of the 1989 amendments to the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) as articulated in the Education Department General Administrative Guidelines (EDGAR) Part 86. Part 86 pertains to drug and alcohol prevention.
The unlawful possession, manufacture, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by all students and employees is prohibited on school premises or as part of any of its activities.
Policy Details
This Act and the U.S. Department of Education’s supporting regulations require that institutions of higher learning adopt and implement programs. The regulations in the Drug and Alcohol Prevention Program (DAAPP) contain specific recommendations for the content of a written notification and specify the items that the annual notification to students and employees must comprise. As a requirement of these regulations, Terra State Community College is to disseminate and ensure receipt of this policy/information to all students, staff, and faculty on an annual basis. This process is formally conducted by the Director of Campus Safety & Security emailing the DAAPP to all students, staff & faculty each spring, summer and fall semesters. Questions concerning this policy and/or alcohol and other drug programs, interventions and policies may be directed to the Director of Campus Safety & Security at (419) 559-2253.
The President of the College has overall responsibility for the implementation and administration of this policy and has delegated its overall management to the Director of Campus Safety & Security. In addition, the President or his/her designee will generate a review of the institution’s alcohol and other drug policy and program as required by law. Terra State Community College is a community of learning with our mission to offer quality, professional, focused, learning-centered, undergraduate degree programs and life-long learning opportunities to prepare traditional college and adult students for successful careers and for productive and satisfying lives of excellence, leadership, and service.
The College represents a new kind of institution in America, the professional College, where the career objectives of traditional college age students and adult students are optimized through professionally focused undergraduate and certificate programs that have a broad general educational foundation.
All Terra State Community College Students must abide by this statment: the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of a controlled subjstance is prohibited in or at Terra State Community College and the Terra Village Landings .
Terra State Community College receives federal funding and must comply with federal law, the possession, use, cultivation, manufacture, or distribution of marijuana is prohibited on college property and at college sponsored activities, Terra Village Landings, main campus buildings and all campus parking lots regardless of Ohio law permitting limited personal use.
Resources
Health Risks and Understanding Drug Use
People use drugs for a variety of reasons, including to satisfy curiosity, to relieve stress, to cope with difficult problems and situations and to manage depression and low self-esteem. Drug use that begins casually or as experimentation can progress to problem use or even addiction, but a person doesn’t have to be addicted to drugs to have a drug problem. The key to preventing and treating drug abuse is to also treat the underlying reasons for use.
Drug abuse education is important. A thorough alcohol/drug education program includes three areas:
- Early detection-Understanding the signs and symptoms of drug use.
- Intervention-Helping someone who may have a problem with drugs.
- Referral-Knowing where to get help or to send someone for help.
Health Risks of Alcohol and Other Drugs
Alcohol is the most abused drug in society as well as on college campuses. Alcohol is directly involved in many injuries, assaults and the majority of deaths in people under age 25.
Other commonly abused illegal drugs include marijuana, cocaine, stimulants, hallucinogens, depressants, narcotics, steroids and inhalants. Legal drugs such as caffeine, nicotine, over-the-counter and prescription drugs also have wide use and associated risks.
Health risks of using alcohol or other drugs include both physical and psychological effects. The health consequences depend on the frequency, duration and intensity of use. For all drugs, there is a risk of overdose. Overdose can result in coma, convulsions, psychosis or death. In addition, combinations of certain drugs, such as alcohol and barbiturates, can be lethal. Finally, the purity and strength of doses of illegal drugs are uncertain.
From the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (www.niaaa.nih.gov):
Alcohol’s Effects on the Body
Brain:
Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, and can affect the way the brain looks and works. These disruptions can change mood and behavior, and make it harder to think clearly and move with coordination.
Heart:
Drinking a lot over a long time or too much on a single occasion can damage the heart, causing problems including: Cardiomyopathy - Stretching and drooping of heart muscle, Arrhythmias - Irregular heart beat, Stroke, High blood pressure
Liver:
Heavy drinking takes a toll on the liver, and can lead to a variety of problems and liver inflammations including: Steatosis, or fatty liver, Alcoholic hepatitis, Fibrosis, Cirrhosis
Pancreas:
Alcohol causes the pancreas to produce toxic substances that can eventually lead to pancreatitis, a dangerous inflammation and swelling of the blood vessels in the pancreas that prevents proper digestion.
Cancer:
Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of developing certain cancers, including cancers of the: Mouth, Esophagus, Throat, Liver, Breast
Immune System:
Drinking too much can weaken your immune system, making your body a much easier target for disease. Chronic drinkers are more liable to contract diseases like pneumonia and tuberculosis than people who do not drink too much. Drinking a lot on a single occasion slows your body’s ability to ward off infections - even up to 24 hours after getting drunk.
Retrieved: November 25, 2024 from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body
Continued use of substances can lead to tolerance (requiring more and more of a drug to get the same effect), dependence (physical or psychological need) or withdrawal (painful, difficult and dangerous symptoms when stopping the use of drugs). Long-term chronic use of drugs can lead to malnutrition, organic damage to the body, and psychological problems. The risk of AIDS and other diseases increases if drugs are injected. The consumption of alcohol or drugs by pregnant women may cause abnormalities, such as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (the third leading cause of birth defects) in babies.
For a full description of health risks associated with alcohol and drugs, National Institute on Drug Abuse. www.drugabuse.gov
Risk Factors for Drug and/or Alcohol Use
A number of factors put people at risk for drug abuse. Several of the higher risk factors are:
- Family history of alcoholism or drug abuse
- Inadequate interpersonal skills
- Favorable attitudes toward drug use
- Friends who use drugs
- Low self-esteem or self-worth
- College student between 18-25 years old
- Academic failure
- Depression
- Poor coping skills
Self-Assessments:
Alcohol: Am I using it, or is it using me?
- Do you drink to make yourself feel better if you’re having a hard time at work or at home?
- Has your drinking increased in the last two years, year, six months?
- Are you annoyed or defensive if anyone mentions your drinking?
- Have you ever tried to limit your drinking by drinking only at a certain time of day or on certain days of the week?
- Do you start drinking sooner, and stop drinking later, than most of your friends?
- Have you had a morning drink in the past year?
- Has your drinking ever caused you problems at home or at work?
- Do you ever feel guilty or regretful about how you’ve behaved when you’re drinking?
- Have you ever had a memory lapse after an evening of drinking?
- Do you secretly worry that drinking is damaging your life?
If you answered “yes” to two or more questions, there is a good chance that you may be heading for a dangerous drinking problem if you don’t already have one. Only you know the truth about your own drinking.
Are you experiencing co-dependency (a family illness)?
- Do you lose sleep because of a problem user?
- Does your attitude change toward the problem user (alternating between love and hate)?
- Do you mark, hide, dilute and/or empty bottles of liquor or other substances?
- Do you think that everything would be OK if only the problem user would stop or control the use?
- Do you feel alone, fearful, anxious, angry and frustrated most of the time?
- Are you beginning to dislike yourself and wonder about your sanity?
- Do you feel responsible and guilty about the chemical problem?
- Have you taken over many chores and duties that you would normally expect the problem user to assume or that were formerly his or hers?
- Do you feel utterly defeated, that nothing you can say or do will influence the problem user?
- Do you believe that he or she cannot get better?
If you answered “yes” to any three of these questions, chemical dependency exists in the family and is producing negative changes in you.
Free Online Self-Assessment
Drug and Alcohol-Related Campus Sanctions
Terra State Community College reserves the right to warn, reprimand, suspend or dismiss any student or employee who violates the college conduct and discipline policy or the law. The college’s response will depend on the severity of the offense, number of previous offenses and extenuating circumstances. For students, all college judicial and appeals procedures will be followed except in rare cases when the possibility of imminent danger exists. For employees, due process will be followed.
The student may additionally be referred to an alcohol/drug counseling or treatment facility..
If a student is convicted of a criminal drug violation, the student must notify the college. Law requires the college, within 30 days of such notification, to:
- Take appropriate action against such student, up to and including dismissal; or
- Require such student to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purpose by a federal, state or local health, law enforcement or other appropriate agency.
Drug and Alcohol-Related State and Federal Laws
Ohio Controlled Substance Laws
Ohio law prohibits the unlawful manufacture, cultivation, distribution, trafficking, sale, possession, or use of controlled substances, including but not limited to cocaine, heroin, amphetamines, and marijuana. Ohio law also prohibits knowingly or recklessly furnishing controlled substances to a minor and administering controlled substances to any person by force, threat, or deception with the intent to cause serious physical harm or where serious physical harm results. These offenses are classified as felonies under Ohio law.
Ohio law further prohibits knowingly obtaining, possessing, or using controlled substances without lawful authorization and permitting drug abuse on one’s premises or in one’s vehicle. Depending on the substance involved, the amount, and the circumstances, these offenses may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.
Ohio law also prohibits the unlawful possession or use of drug paraphernalia and the sale or furnishing of drug paraphernalia to juveniles. Paraphernalia offenses are generally classified as misdemeanors.
Criminal Penalties under Ohio Law
- Minor misdemeanor offenses may result in a fine of up to $150.
- Misdemeanor offenses may result in imprisonment for up to six months and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Felony offenses may result in significant prison terms and fines. Prison terms and fines vary by felony degree and offense, with maximum prison terms ranging up to 25 years for the most serious offenses under Ohio law.
Ohio Alcohol Laws
Ohio law prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing, attempting to purchase, possessing, or consuming beer or intoxicating liquor, or from furnishing false information or identification in order to obtain alcohol. These offenses are misdemeanors and may result in criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, and additional sanctions such as driver’s license suspension.
Ohio law also prohibits the possession of beer or intoxicating liquor that was not lawfully purchased. Courts may impose additional penalties for unlawful alcohol sales, including ordering that premises where alcohol is unlawfully sold not be occupied for up to one year or requiring the owner or occupant to post a surety bond ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
Federal Controlled Substances Law
Under the federal Controlled Substances Act, the possession, use, manufacture, distribution, or trafficking of controlled substances is illegal. Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, regardless of state laws permitting its use.
Federal penalties for controlled substance violations vary by substance, quantity, and prior convictions, and may include:
- Imprisonment
- Criminal fines
- Forfeiture of property and vehicles used in the offense
- Denial of federal benefits, including student financial aid
- Ineligibility to receive or possess firearms
- Civil penalties
Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) Compliance
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act requires institutions receiving federal funding to maintain policies prohibiting the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and controlled substances.
Because Terra State Community College receives federal funding and must comply with federal law, the possession, use, cultivation, manufacture, distribution, or sale of marijuana is prohibited on college property and at college-sponsored activities, on and in all main campus buildings, parking lots, and the Terra Village Landings, regardless of Ohio state law or voter initiatives.
This prohibition applies to all forms of marijuana, including recreational and medical marijuana.
Campus Resources
Community Resources
24/7 CRISIS HOTLINE: 1-800-826-1306
24/7 CRISIS TEXT LINE: Text HOME to 741741
VETERANS CRISIS LINE 1-800-273-8255 press 1
| Resource / Provider |
Services Offered |
Phone / Contact / Link |
|
Mental Health & Recovery Services Board (Seneca, Ottawa, Sandusky & Wyandot)
|
Community planning, referral support, recovery coordination
|
Main: 419‑448‑0640, Hope Line: 567‑867‑4673 (mhsosw.org)
|
|
Firelands Counseling & Recovery Services - Tiffin
|
Outpatient mental health & substance use treatment, crisis linkage
|
419‑448‑9440 (wyandothelps.org)
|
|
Firelands Hope Line
|
Support line for alcohol/substance concerns
|
567‑867‑4673 (mhsosw.org)
|
|
Connections Recovery Services
|
Mobile crisis intervention, addiction support
|
419‑552‑1254 (samhsa.gov)
|
|
Wyandot Counseling Associates
|
Outpatient counseling & substance abuse assessment
|
419‑294‑1212 (wyandothelps.org)
|
|
Christian Counseling Center
|
Mental health counseling
|
419‑447‑8111 (terra.edu)
|
|
Community Health Services
|
Behavioral health counseling & services
|
419‑334‑3869 (terra.edu)
|
|
Corporate Anointing Ministries (CAM)
|
Recovery housing (male & female)
|
419‑333‑0733 (terra.edu)
|
|
Family & Children First Council - Sandusky
|
Family support services
|
419‑307‑1541 (terra.edu)
|
|
Family & Children First Council - Seneca
|
Family support services
|
419‑447‑2927 (terra.edu)
|
|
Family & Children First Council - Wyandot
|
Family support services
|
419‑294‑6438 (terra.edu)
|
|
Great Lakes Recovery Center - Fremont
|
Recovery support services
|
567‑280‑4351 ext.1504 (terra.edu)
|
|
Harbor Behavioral Health - Upper Sandusky
|
Mental health & substance use support
|
419‑731‑0720 (terra.edu)
|
|
Lotus Recovery House - Tiffin
|
Women’s recovery housing
|
419‑934‑3540 (wyandothelps.org)
|
|
Phoenix Recovery House - Tiffin
|
Men’s recovery housing
|
419‑934‑3540 (wyandothelps.org)
|
|
Al‑Anon Family Groups
|
Support for family & friends affected by alcohol/drug use
|
800‑344‑2666 (wyandothelps.org)
|
|
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) - NW Ohio
|
Peer support for alcohol recovery
|
area55aa.org (samhsa.gov)
|
|
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) - Ohio Region
|
Peer support for drug addiction recovery
|
bmlt.naohio.org (samhsa.gov)
|
|
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
|
24/7 confidential crisis support (mental health & substance use)
|
Call/Text: 988 (samhsa.gov)
|
|
SAMHSA National Helpline
|
24/7 confidential treatment referral for mental health & substance use
|
1‑800‑662‑HELP (4357) (samhsa.gov)
|
|
FindTreatment.gov (SAMHSA Treatment Locator)
|
Searchable directory for treatment providers by location
|
findtreatment.gov (samhsa.gov)
|
|
OhioMHAS / DBH (Ohio Department of Behavioral Health)
|
State behavioral health resources & certified provider lists
|
ohio.gov/DBH
|
|
SMART Recovery
|
Science-based peer recovery support groups
|
smartrecovery.org
|
|
Celebrate Recovery
|
Faith-based recovery support program
|
Local church listings (mhsosw.org)
|
|
Marijuana Anonymous
|
Support for marijuana addiction
|
1‑800‑766‑6779 (ap-schools.org)
|
|
Crisis Text Line
|
24/7 text support for emotional distress & crisis
|
Text HOME to 741741 (dam.assets.ohio.gov)
|
|
Ohio CareLine
|
Emotional support helpline for Ohio residents
|
1‑800‑720‑9616 (dam.assets.ohio.gov)
|
|
Disaster Distress Helpline
|
24/7 support for disaster-related stress
|
1‑800‑985‑5990 (samhsa.gov)
|
|
MAR‑Anon / Nar‑Anon
|
Support for families affected by addiction
|
1‑800‑477‑6291 (ap-schools.org)
|
Treatment and Recovery Support Resources Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties
For specific service information, please call Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Seneca, Sandusky and Wyandot Counties: 419-448-0640
Equal Education Opportunity Policy
Notice Against Discrimination
Terra State Community College is committed to providing equal educational opportunity. Discrimination in any form will not be tolerated within the Terra State Community College community. All members of the faculty, staff, administration, student body, volunteers, and visitors to the campus have the right to pursue their careers or studies free from discrimination. The above-mentioned groups are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others. This policy has been developed to reaffirm these principles and to provide recourse for those individuals whose rights have been violated. This policy has dual purposes. It serves as a measure for the college to determine, after the fact, if behaviors have violated policy. It also provides general guidelines for the expectations the college has for non-discriminatory behavior. Separate policies have been developed to specifically address sexual and disability discrimination.
Filing a Complaint
A person who believes they have been subject to discriminatory treatment is encouraged to report these offenses to the Title IX Coordinator, a Deputy Coordinator, or to their direct supervisor. Any person who receives a complaint of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, is expected to report the incident promptly.
Non-Retaliation
Terra State Community College strictly adheres to and enforces a non-retaliation clause. Retaliation against an individual who has reported discriminatory treatment and retaliation against individuals for cooperating with an investigation is unlawful and will not be tolerated by the College. Any person who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination if they are an employee, and or dismissal if they are a student.
The following individual(s) have been appointed by the President to handle inquiries regarding this policy:
TBD, Title IX Coordinator
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: TBD
Phone: TBD
Email: TBD
Tim Shaal, Dean of Student Success
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: Academic Service Center B105
Phone: 419.559.2416
Email: tshaal01@terra.edu
Kelli Gilbert, Director of Human Resources
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: Human Resources B208
Phone: 419.559.2165
Email: kgilber02@terra.edu
To view established grievance procedures for this policy please visit www.terra.edu.
Notice of Non-Discrimination
Terra State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, age, gender identity, genetic information, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status, or special disabled or Vietnam-era veteran status in provision of educational programs and services or employment opportunities and benefits pursuant to the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Age Discrimination Act of 1976, the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, and Chapter 4112 of the Ohio Revised Code.
Service and Emotional Support Animals Policy
Policy Statement
Terra State Community College (TSCC) is committed to providing equal access to programs, services and physical facilities to those members of the community with disabilities. The College acknowledges that some members of the community with disabilities may require the use of service or assistance animals while at TSCC. Guidelines concerning the appropriate use of, and protocols associated with, service or assistance animals are outlined below.
Policy Details
TSCC reserves the right to amend these guidelines as needed, with or without prior notice. Members of the TSCC community who are students and require the use of a service or assistance animal should contact the TSCC Dean of Student Success at academicservicecenter@terra.edu. Members of the TSCC community who are faculty and staff and require the use of a service or assistance animal should contact the TSCC Human Resources Director at HR@terra.edu.
- Service Animals are generally allowed to accompany their handlers in residences and any public spaces where their handlers are permitted. Visiting therapy animals may be allowed in specified areas of the College with advanced approval.
- All animals are the responsibility of their handlers and should be under their control (in proximity to the handler and responsive to commands, in harness, leashed or in a carrier). An animal’s behavior is considered the handler’s behavior; the animal will be held to the same basic standard of conduct as their handlers. If animals are disruptive to college business or community behavioral expectations for educational, medical and residential environments handlers may be asked to correct the animal’s behavior or remove it from the environment.
- Service animals are generally allowed to accompany their handlers anywhere their handlers are permitted on campus (exceptions may exist in areas requiring protective equipment or clothing for access).
- Individuals living in a campus residence and utilizing a service or assistance animal are asked to work with residence life administrators to arrange appropriate housing. A brief statement indicating including the following must be submitted to: The Office of Disability Services, (419)-559-2139
- That you are a person with a disability and will be using a service or assistance animal;
- The primary service tasks the animal performs;
- The documentation to prove that the service or assistance animal has had an appropriate medical exam and vaccinations. Documentation must include a vaccination certificate or letter identifying your animal and indicating a clean bill of health and up-to-date vaccinations from your veterinary health provider.
- All service or assistance animals must be pre-approved by The Office of Disability Services, (419)-559-2139.
- If an employee plans to bring a service animal to work, please contact the Human Resources.
- For assistance planning for a service or assistance animal on campus, or if you have a concern about your treatment and access when accompanied by our service or assistance animal, contact Disability Services, (419) 559-2342 or the Dean of Student Success.
- Service Animals in Training are not recognized by federal law (ADA, Rehabilitation Act, and Fair Housing Act) but are recognized by Ohio Revised Code 955.43. Service animals in training must have a liability insurance policy provided by the nonprofit agency sponsoring the training. Typically puppy rearing (under six months old) focused on socialization and general obedience training is not considered service animal training.
- Emotional Support Animals can be a reasonable accommodation to No Pet Policies. In the residential setting an approved emotional support animal is allowed, when under the control of its handler, in the handler’s room or common spaces within the residence. Emotional support animals approved for the residential setting are not permitted in other buildings.
- Requesting Approval - To request approval for an emotional support animal as an accommodation you must provide a short letter from an appropriate medical provider or mental health professional. The letter must be sent directly from the provider to the Disability Services.
- Appropriate medical provider or mental health professional is someone who:
- Is a licensed medical or mental healthcare professional in the State of Ohio, the individual’s home state, or those immediate surrounding areas, who has an established clinical relationship with and personal knowledge of the individual’s mental health disability and their related treatment needs.
- The individual must have a record of an established therapeutic relationship with the requested animal.
- Letters from a medical or mental health provider must include the following:
- Identification the medical or mental healthcare provider, including name and qualifications.
- Identification of the student and stating the student has a disability;
- Identifies the animal (i.e. a Standard Poodle);
- Affirms that having the animal described alleviates identified impacts of your disability or serves a defined role in treatment;
- Affirms having the animal in residence is necessary to effectively benefit from TSCC’s residential program.
- Letters must be accompanied by documentation to prove that the service or assistance animal has had an appropriate medical exam and vaccinations. Documentation must include a vaccination certificate or letter identifying your animal and indicating a clean bill of health and up-to-date vaccinations from your veterinary health provider.
- Students must schedule an appointment directly with The Office of Disability Services, (419) 559 -2139, to establish reasonable accommodations.
- Employees can schedule an appointment directly Human Resources.
- Denial of a request for an Emotional Support Animal may be based on insufficient documentation of disability or the need for an emotional support animal as an accommodation; concerns about diagnosis; or demonstrated behavioral concerns. Letters purchased from the Internet for a set price rarely provide the information necessary to support an ESA request. Certificates, identification cards, vests, and/or tags do not lawfully designate an animal as an ESA and will not be accepted as appropriate documentation.
- Approved Requests will be communicated by the Office of Disability Services, who will inform the Director of Residence Life of each request and other information for establishing Emotional Support Animal accommodation.
- Removal of an Approved Assistance Animal
- The Office of Residence Life, in consultation with Disability Services, may remove an assistance animal if:
- The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others;
- The animal causes substantial damage to the property of others (including university property);
- The animal’s presence requires or results in a fundamental alteration of a program;
- The handler consistently fails to comply with this policy; or
- The animal or its presence creates an unmanageable disturbance or interference with the university community. Any removal of an assistance animal may be appealed through the student conduct appeal procedure.
- Visiting Therapy Animals: Visiting Therapy Animals may be allowed access to specific facilities with permission from the program/office occupying the facilities. You can arrange assistance with this process by contacting the Dean of Student Success. If you have questions or concerns related to these policies, please contact The Office Disability Services, (419) 559-2139.
- Definitions:
- Service Animal: As defined by the ADA (http://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm) a service animal is a dog that has been trained to perform an active task that mitigates or partially mitigates the impact of the handler’s disability.
- Assistance Animals: Under Housing and Urban Development’s Rules (Fair Housing Act - http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/huddoc?id=servanimals_ntcfheo2013-01.pdf) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act) Assistance animals include animals, other than dogs, that provide active support like a Service Animal as well as animals that provide passive support that alleviates or at least partially mitigates an impact of a person’s disability allowing them to benefit from OSU’s programs and services. Animals providing these passive services are referred to as Emotional Support Animals (ESAs).
- Emotional Support Animals: Assistance animals that provide passive support that partially ameliorates the impact of a disability are referred to as Emotional Support Animals (ESAs). Use of an ESA on campus is a potentially reasonable accommodation. Like all accommodations the university may ask that you document the need for the accommodation by an appropriate professional as providing passive support that alleviates one or more impacts of a person’s disability, serves a defined role in the person’s treatment, and is necessary for participation in particular programs.
- Visiting Therapy Animals: Animals in the company of their handlers that have been trained to make wellness, stress reduction or therapeutic short term visits and are made available to members of the university community on a transient basis in specific locations.
- Pets: All other privately owned animals.
- Handler: An individual with a disability who utilizes a service or assistance animal or the owner of a Visiting Therapy Animal.
Resources
- Terra State Disability Services
Building B, Room 105
419.559.2139
https://www.terra.edu/disabilityservices
- Fremont Municipal Code | Animals - https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/Fremont/#!/Fremont06/Fremont06.html
- Fremont Municipal Code | Licensing & Vacination - https://www.codepublishing.com/CA/Fremont/#!/Fremont06/Fremont0620.html#6.20
Services for Students with Disabilities and Disability Discrimination Policy
Policy Statement
Terra State Community College (TSCC) is committed to creating an environment supportive for the success of all students, faculty, staff, and constituents. As such, TSCC provides services to assist all members of the community with their academic pursuits. TSCC also provides methods and processes to address discrimination. This policy provides guidance for implementing reasonable accommodations for students and members of the public while maintaining essential academic standards and requirements. It also establishes expectations for nondiscriminatory behavior and serves as a framework for evaluating whether conduct or actions may violate disability non-discrimination policies.
Policy Details
- Definitions
- A Person with a Disability - Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the term “disability” means:
- Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities;
- Has a record of such an impairment; or
- Is regarded as having such an impairment.
- Complainant - The individual who reports or files an allegation of a violation of College policy.
- Disability Discrimination - Encompasses many forms of prohibited conduct, including but not limited to, improper denial of requested accommodations; failure to implement approved accommodations; harassment or unnecessary different treatment on the basis of disability; and exclusion from participation in a College program or activity due to lack of physical accessibility, digital accessibility, or effective communication with members of the public as defined in Title II of the ADA.
- Documentation - Information obtained from appropriate sources that establishes the presence of a disability and supports the review and determination of accommodation requests, in accordance with the College’s Documentation Standards.
- Examples of Disabilities - Disabilities may include, but are not limited to, physical, sensory, psychological, neurological, cognitive, or learning disabilities, as well as chronic health conditions that substantially limit one or more major life activities.
- Temporary Impairments - A temporary impairment is an impairment with an actual or expected duration of 6 months or less. A temporary impairment does not constitute a disability unless its severity is such that it results in a substantial limitation of one or more major life activities for an extended period of time.
- Examples of Reasonable Accommodations - Reasonable accommodations may include, but are not limited to:
- Alternative formats of course materials (e.g., enlarged text, digital text, audio format)
- Note-taking assistance or access to lecture materials
- Extended time on exams or assignments
- Testing in a reduced-distraction environment
- Alternative seating arrangements in classrooms or labs
- Access to assistive technology or recorded course content
- Other accommodations determined to be reasonable and appropriate by the College
- Fundamental Alteration - A change to a course, program, service, or activity that would modify its essential requirements, objectives, or nature. An accommodation is not considered reasonable if it would fundamentally alter the academic standards, program outcomes, or essential elements of the course or program.
- Interactive Process - A collaborative discussion between the student, the Office of Disability Services, and, when appropriate, faculty or academic program staff, to identify reasonable accommodations. This process involves reviewing documentation, discussing the impact of the disability on academic participation, exploring potential accommodations, and determining solutions that provide equal access without fundamentally altering the course, program, or essential requirements.
- Reasonable Accommodations - An approved change or support that provides a qualified student with a disability an equal opportunity to access and participate in courses, programs, services, or activities offered by the College. Such accommodations must be effective while preserving the essential elements of the academic experience and must not create an undue financial or administrative burden for the College. Reasonable accommodations are distinct from flexibilities granted by a faculty member in response to medically documented short-term illness that is not related to a disability.
- Respondent - The individual alleged to have violated College policy.
- Retaliation - Retaliation is any adverse action taken against an individual because they reported discrimination, requested an accommodation, participated in an investigation, or exercised rights under College policy or applicable law.
- Technical Standards - The fundamental abilities and competencies required for successful completion of a specific academic program, including expectations within classroom, laboratory, clinical, and fieldwork settings. Students are required to consistently meet these standards throughout their enrollment, either independently or with approved reasonable accommodations.
- Scope
- Employees seeking reasonable accommodations are referred to Human Resources.
- Persons who are not students or employees (for example, community members, parents, visitors) but who are nevertheless qualified persons with disabilities pursuant to the Section 504 implementing regulation at 34 C.F.R. § 104.3(l)(4) may avail of this policy, in order to avoid discrimination prohibited by law.
- The grievance procedure described in this policy fulfills the College’s obligation under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, implemented at 34 C.F.R. § 104.7(b), and is available to address any complaints alleging action prohibited by the disability-discrimination laws (Section 504, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Chapter 4112 of the Ohio Revised Code).
- Allegations of misconduct brought under other College policies (for example, the Student Code of Conduct) that involve disability discrimination, including harassment, must also be processed under this policy in addition to other applicable College policies.
- Roles and Responsibilities for Reasonable Accommodations
- Student Responsibilities - Students (including dual enrolled students on Section 504 plans or IEPs) and non-employees seeking accommodations are responsible for initiating and participating in the process to ensure access. Responsibilities include:
- Requesting accommodations through the Office of Disability Services in a timely manner
- Completing all required intake materials and participating in the registration process
- Meeting with Disability Services staff to discuss disability-related barriers and accommodation needs
- Providing appropriate documentation from a qualified professional in accordance with Documentation Standards (see below).
- Engaging in the interactive process, as needed, to determine reasonable and effective accommodations
- For students:
- Delivering the official Letter of Accommodation to faculty in a timely manner each term accommodations are requested
- Communicating with faculty, when appropriate, to support the implementation of approved accommodations
- Distinguishing between requests for implementation of an approved disability-related accommodation vs. requests for flexibility, such as a deadline extension, due to short-term illness that is not related disability-related.
- Notifying Disability Services promptly of any issues, concerns, or changes related to approved accommodations
- Disability Services Responsibilities - The Office of Disability Services is responsible for coordinating accommodations and ensuring compliance with applicable laws. Responsibilities include:
- Meeting with students and non-employees to review disability-related needs and accommodation requests
- Evaluating submitted documentation and requesting additional information, if necessary
- Facilitating an interactive process with the student/non-employee and, when appropriate, relevant college personnel to determine reasonable accommodations
- Making determinations regarding accommodations by issuing a Verified Individual Services & Accommodations (VISA) for any approved accommodations and by issuing written notice of any denial of a requested accommodations
- Providing clear guidance on the implementation of approved accommodations
- Issuing official Letters of Accommodation and the Communication Plan Template for students to share with faculty
- Providing annual training and ongoing support and consultation to students and the College community regarding accommodations, physical and digital accessibility, and disability discrimination, including harassment
- Faculty Responsibilities - Faculty play a key role in implementing approved accommodations and supporting access in the classroom. Responsibilities include:
- Implementing approved accommodations in accordance with the official Letter of Accommodation issued by Disability Services
- Consulting with students, as appropriate, to determine effective methods for implementing accommodations within the course structure
- Referring students who request accommodations (that have not yet been approved) to the Office of Disability Services
- Communicating with Disability Services regarding questions, concerns, or implementation challenges, including situations where faculty receive requests for accommodations before approval from the Office of Disability Services
- This collaborative process is grounded in the interactive model required under the ADA and Section 504 and is intended to ensure equal access while maintaining the integrity of academic programs.
- Accommodation Requests - Reasonable accommodations are determined on an individualized basis through a collaborative and interactive process involving the Office of Disability Services, the student, and, when appropriate, the academic program. All requests for accommodations must be supported by current and appropriate documentation from a qualified professional (see Documentation Standards). This documentation helps Disability Services confirm the presence of a disability, understand its impact on the student’s academic experience, and make informed decisions regarding effective and reasonable accommodations. The steps for requesting and implementing accommodations are as follows:
- Request Accommodations
- Notify the Office of Disability Services (ODS) of your need for accommodations.
- Complete the Request for Services & Accommodations Form
- Complete one or all of the Disability Verification Form, ESA Verification Form, or Housing Accommodation Verification Form.
- Provide current supporting documentation, per the Documentation Standards, from a qualified professional describing your disability, its impact, and recommended accommodations.
- Initial Review
- ODS reviews your request to confirm eligibility.
- If eligible, ODS begins an interactive process to discuss accommodations.
- If not eligible, ODS will refer you to other resources.
- Interactive Process
- Meet with ODS to review your needs and potential accommodations.
- ODS considers professional recommendations submitted by those seeking accommodations, but ODS has final authority to approve or deny accommodations.
- Accommodations must be reasonable, provide equal access, and comply with program technical standards.
- Determination & Notification
- Approved: You receive a Verified Individual Services & Accommodations (VISA) Form, which lists granted accommodations. You sign the VISA to give Disability Services staff permission to share confidential information regarding your accommodations with necessary College personnel. For students, ODS also provides an official Letter of Accommodation to share with faculty and a Communication Plan Form to help facilitate and document the conversation with faculty.
- Denied: You receive a letter explaining the decision and may consult with ODS.
- Implementation & Ongoing Support
- Meet with faculty to discuss which accommodations you will utilize in class, and how you will communicate about utilizing the stated accommodations. Document this conversation utilizing the Communication Plan.
- Faculty implement accommodations as outlined in your Letter of Accommodation.
- Contact ODS promptly if issues arise or if your needs change.
- Key Points/Notes:
- Documentation (for example, from a student’s healthcare provider) alone does not guarantee accommodations.
- Each accommodation is determined on a case-by-case basis.
- You must meet program technical standards with or without accommodations.
- Documentation Standards - A combination of the following will be requested and considered when evaluating requests for services and accommodations. Documentation must be provided by a qualified, licensed, or certified physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist.
- Acceptable Documentation
- Application for Services and Accommodations
- Disability Verification Form
- Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Verification Form
- Housing Accommodation Verification Form
- Medical Records and/or Reports
- Psycho-educational/Neuro-psychological reports
- School Records (IEP or 504 Plans).
- Note that the Section 504 and IDEA obligations of K-12 public school districts to provide a free and appropriate public education without regard to cost do not apply to postsecondary institutions such as the College.
- Letters of accommodation from previous higher education institutions
- Documentation must include
- Diagnosis Details: Name of your disability, date diagnosed, and date of your most recent evaluation.
- Symptoms: Description of how your condition affects you and meets diagnostic criteria.
- Assessment Information: Tests or evaluations used to determine your disability (include the full report).
- Current Treatment: Medications, dosage, and frequency, if relevant.
- Impact on Learning or other Major Life Activities: How your disability affects your ability to participate in classes, college housing, or other college activities.
- Accommodation Recommendations: Suggestions for accommodations based on your needs, including a brief explanation of previous accommodations or why accommodations are needed now.
- Documentation Age - All documentation submitted to the Office of Disability Services must accurately reflect a student’s current functional limitations to support the determination of accommodations. Students may also be asked to provide updated evaluations if their condition has changed significantly or if existing documentation is outdated or does not clearly describe current needs.
- Medical and general disabilities: Documentation should generally be no more than three years old.
- Psychological disabilities: Because these conditions can change over time, documentation should be no more than one year old. If the condition has not been stable for a full year, more recent documentation (within the past six months) may be required.
- Timeframe For Requesting Accommodations - Students should submit accommodation requests as soon as they are admitted or become aware of the need for support. Early requests help ensure that reasonable arrangements can be made in a timely manner. All requests must include current and complete documentation. Once a complete request is received, the review process generally takes at least 10 business days, and finalizing accommodations may take up to four weeks.
Students should be aware that accommodations cannot be applied retroactively, and late requests may limit the College’s ability to provide accommodations promptly.
- Digital Accessibility - This policy requires the College to comply with the U.S. Department of Justice’s April 24, 2024 Rule on digital accessibility under Title II of the ADA. Accordingly, as defined in 28 C.F.R. § 35.104, the web content and mobile apps that the College provides or makes available, directly or through contractual, licensing, or other arrangements, must conform to the WCAG 2.1 Level AA technical standard.
- Examples of content covered by this policy:
- All terra.edu webpages, including internal webpages not open to the public.
- All social media content posted by the College.
- Course-related web content. Any digital materials (including but not limited to pdf, word processing, spreadsheet, or presentation files) used for instruction must comply with this policy when posted to Canvas, posted to a College website, or otherwise distributed to students. Third-party web content that faculty link to or otherwise use in teaching, if required for coursework, must comply with this policy.
- Exceptions.
- Archived content. Archived content, as defined by the Rule, need not comply. Archived content must satisfy the following criteria:
- Was created before April 24, 2026
- Is retained exclusively for reference, research, or recordkeeping
- Is not altered or updated after the date of archiving.
- Is organized and stored in a dedicated area or areas clearly identified as being archived.
- Fundamental alteration/undue burden. Conformity with WCAG 2.1 AA is not required if the College can demonstrate that compliance with this standard would result in a fundamental alteration in the nature of a service, program, or activity or in undue financial and administrative burdens. This decision must be made only by the President of the College or the President’s designee and must be accompanied by a written statement of reasons.
- Examples of compliant content. The following are examples of steps that must be taken to comply with this policy.
- Pre-recorded video, including any video used for teaching, must have synchronized captions.
- Live-streamed video must have real-time captions.
- Informative images must have equivalent alt-text embedded so that screen readers can convey the information to people with vision disabilities.
- Web content must be navigable by keyboard, without a mouse.
- Text must be selectable and searchable. A scanned image-only document does not suffice.
- Documents, such as pdfs or Word or Google documents, must be built with heading styles/tags in order to facilitate navigation by a screen reader.
- Procurement. All College procurement of digital products/services must comply with this policy. The College expects vendors to provide Voluntary Product Accessibility Templates with respect to WCAG 2.1 AA, as well as testing evidence that provides proof that the products/services comply with this policy. The College also expects vendors to timely remediate any accessibility barriers at no additional cost. Procurement contracts must include remedies to protect the College if vendors fail to remediate.
- Direct Threat/Involuntary Withdrawal - Under 28 C.F.R. § 35.139, the College may remove, restrict, or impose conditions on the participation of an individual with a disability in a College program or activity, when that individual with a disability poses a direct threat. Direct threat means a significant risk to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level through reasonable modifications or auxiliary aids.
Any direct threat determination must be based on an individualized, objective assessment using current medical knowledge or the best available evidence. The assessment must consider:
- the nature, duration, and severity of the risk
- the probability that the potential injury will actually occur, and
- whether reasonable modifications of policies practices or procedures, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services, can sufficiently mitigate the risk.
Decisions to remove, restrict, or impose conditions on participation may be made only by the Section 504 coordinator and must be documented in writing. Individuals subject to such decisions may appeal to the President of the College through the College’s Section 504 Grievance Procedure.
- Services Not Covered by Disability Services - The Office of Disability Services provides accommodations for students with documented disabilities under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) , Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Chapter 4112 of the Ohio Revised Code. Certain services or supports are not considered disability accommodations and are therefore not provided through the Disability Services Office. These include:
- English as a Second Language (ESL) Support - Language learning services are academic supports and are not disability accommodations.
- Medical Devices Personal to the Student - Items such as glasses, hearing aids, or other personal medical devices must be provided and maintained by the student.
- Personal Transportation - Transportation to or from campus is the responsibility of the student. Accessibility accommodations may be provided for college-owned transportation systems as required by ADA/504.
- Personal Tutoring - Tutoring or academic coaching is not automatically provided through disability services unless required as a documented accommodation for a disability.
- Religion or Religious Observance - Accommodations for religious practices are not covered under ADA/504. Please refer to the Religious Accommodations Policy.
- Pregnancy Accommodations Unrelated to Disability - Pregnancy alone is not a disability under ADA/504; complications resulting from pregnancy may be disabilities. Students seeking support for pregnancy are referred to the College’s Title IX policy XX and the Title IX coordinator listed there. They may also reach out to the Academic Service Center.
- Services for Students Without a Disability - The Disability Services Office provides accommodations only to students with a documented disability.
- Notice of Non-Discrimination, Harassment & Non-Retaliation
- Notice of Non-Discrimination - Terra State Community College’s notice of non-discrimination is available on the College’s website.
- Harassment - Harassing conduct that is severe, persistent, or pervasive that creates a hostile environment on the basis of disability is a form of discrimination prohibited under this policy. If the College receives notice from anyone of an alleged hostile environment on the basis of disability, regardless of whether a complaint has been filed under this policy, the College shall investigate the issue.
- Non-Retaliation - Terra State Community College strictly prohibits retaliation. Neither the College nor any other person may retaliate against any individual. Under this policy, retaliation consists of adverse action taken against an individual who opposed unlawful disability discrimination or who participated in an investigation addressing unlawful disability discrimination. Any person who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination if they are an employee, and or dismissal if they are a student.
- Grievance Procedure
- Appealing Accommodation DecisionsIf a request for an accommodation is denied by the Office of Disability Services, or if the student/non-employee believes the approved accommodation does not fully cover the student’s/non-employee’s needs, the student/non-employee is afforded the right to appeal the decision through the College’s Grievance Procedure. The right to appeal does not replace the interactive process, which imposes obligations on both the College and the student/non-employee seeking accommodations.
- A student must submit a written Accommodations Appeal to the Dean of Student Success/Section 504 Coordinator, using the online form, within five business days of the denial.
- The Dean of Student Success/Section 504 Coordinator may request additional supporting information, an interview, or other documentation as part of the appeal review.
- The Dean of Student Success/Section 504 Coordinator will respond to the appeal within five business days with a decision.
- Appeals should address:
- Procedural error by the Disability Services staff
- Violation of policy by the Disability Services staff
- Eligibility for services criteria
- Appropriateness of accommodations
- Reasonableness of accommodations
- Mitigating circumstances
- General Guidelines
- Terra State Community College encourages anyone who experiences discrimination, harassment, or retaliation to report the incident as soon as possible after the incident(s) so it can be effectively investigated. All reports will be promptly reviewed and investigated, and appropriate action will be taken as expeditiously as possible. The College will make reasonable efforts to protect the rights of both the complainant and the respondent. Privacy will be maintained for the complainant, the respondent, and any witnesses, consistent with the College’s legal obligations to investigate, take action, and comply with discovery or disclosure requirements.
- The College reserves the right to investigate and resolve complaints of discrimination even if the complainant does not wish to pursue the matter or even if the alleged injured person is someone other than the complainant. Parties will be informed of the investigation’s status at reasonable intervals until a final resolution is reached.
- Anonymous complaints will be accepted; however, the College’s ability to obtain additional information and fully investigate may be limited.
- When a complaint is received, the College will take appropriate interim corrective action promptly. Investigations will be conducted in a manner such that maintains confidentiality to the extent practicable. Individuals meeting with investigators will be informed the of the College’s this policy and complaint process.
- Upon completion of an investigation, the College will inform the complainant and the respondent of the outcome, to the extent appropriate. If discrimination or harassment is confirmed, the College will act promptly to eliminate the conduct, redress its effects, prevent recurrence, and, where appropriate, impose disciplinary action consistent with due process
- Intentionally making a false complaint is a violation of this policy, constitutes misconduct subject to disciplinary action, and in rare cases, may be considered a criminal offense if knowingly false.
- In addition to the College process, individuals may file a complaint at any time with the following government agencies:
- U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS - https://www.ed.gov/about/ed-offices/ocr
- OHIO CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION - https://civ.ohio.gov/
- Investigation Process
- Filing a Complaint - A complainant may submit a written complaint using the Disability Services Grievance Form to the Dean of Student Success/504 Coordinator, describing the alleged disability discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Upon receipt, the Dean will promptly review the complaint and may implement interim measures to protect all parties while the investigation is ongoing. Complaints should address the following:
- A detailed description of the issue including significant dates
- Any supporting documentation as necessary
- The resolution requested
- Investigator - The following individual has been appointed by the President to address complaints under this policy’s Grievance Procedure:
- Mr. Tim Shaal, Dean of Student Success and Section 504 Coordinator
- Terra State Community College
- 2830 Napoleon Road
- Fremont, OH 43420
- Office Location: Building B, Room 105
- Phone: (419) 559-2416
- Email: tshaal@terra.edu
- Investigation Process - Investigations may include interviews with the complainant, respondent, witnesses, and the collection of relevant documentation or evidence. Both parties may provide witnesses and other supporting information.
- Interim Measures - At any time during the investigation, the College may provide interim protections or interim remedies for the complainant, respondent, or witnesses. Measures may include separating the parties, limiting contact, suspensions, or temporary changes to housing or work assignments. Failure to comply with interim measures may be treated as a separate policy violation.
- Resolution for Students - If the investigation substantiates a complaint involving a student respondent, the matter will proceed through the Student Conduct Committee or the hearing process outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
- Resolution for Employees - If the investigation substantiates a complaint involving an employee, the College’s Corrective Action Policy will apply.
- Timeline - The College strives to complete investigations within 60 days of receiving the written complaint. Complex cases may require additional time, and parties will be notified of any delays.
- Non-Participation - Complainants, respondents, witnesses, or other parties involved in a disability-related grievance are expected to participate in the investigation as needed to ensure a fair and thorough review. If a party chooses not to participate, the College may still review the complaint using available information, and notification of the outcome will be provided to the complainant and respondent. Non-participation may limit the College’s ability to fully evaluate the situation and could affect the outcome. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to support participation when needed.
- Special Provisions
- Attempted Violations - Attempts to engage in prohibited conduct are treated as though the conduct occurred.
- College as Complainant - The College reserves the right to initiate a complaint pursuant to the Grievance Procedure and to pursue conduct proceedings without a complaint from the alleged injured person when necessary to protect the campus community.
- Third-Party Violations - Discriminatory conduct by third parties (e.g., visiting speakers, athletes, or vendors) may create a hostile environment. The College is responsible for taking prompt and effective action to prevent further incidents, even when the College does not have direct disciplinary authority over the third party. Appropriate steps may include:
- Requesting corrective action from the third party or their organization
- Limiting the third party’s participation in College programs
- Providing alternative arrangements for students, employees, or visitors affected by the conduct
Third-party individuals who experience discrimination are entitled to utilize the college’s Grievance Procedure.
- Records Retention - The Office of Disability Services (ODS) maintains records related to student accommodations, supporting documentation, appeals, grievances, and investigations in compliance with FERPA, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and applicable Ohio law, including guidance from the Inter-University Council (IUC) Records Retention Manual. All records are treated as confidential and are accessed only by College personnel directly involved in providing accommodations, reviewing requests, or conducting investigations. These records are retained for a minimum of seven (7) years from the student’s last date of enrollment or the resolution of any related appeal, grievance, or investigation, whichever is later, and may be kept longer if required by law or institutional need. Records are retained to support accommodations, ensure compliance with federal and state disability and education laws, and maintain institutional accountability. At the end of the retention period, records are destroyed securely to preserve confidentiality.
- Confidentiality - All documentation provided by students to the Office of Disability Services (ODS) to request accommodations, or to the 504 Coordinator as part of a grievance/investigation will be maintained securely and treated as confidential in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Family Educational Rights and Privacies Act (FERPA). Access to this information is limited to college personnel who are directly involved in reviewing the request, implementing approved accommodations, or following up on a complaint. Anyone who receives accommodation-related documentation is required to maintain its confidentiality and may not discuss or share it with individuals not directly involved in the accommodation process.
- Reporting Requirements - All College employees, except licensed mental health professionals in the Counseling Center, are required to report incidents of disability discrimination, consistent with federal law and College policy, to the Section 504 coordinator. Students seeking fully confidential guidance may consult the College Counseling Center, where conversations are private and do not constitute official notice to the College.
- Handling of Information - All accommodation requests, complaints, and related investigations are handled discreetly. Information is shared only as necessary to conduct a thorough and fair review. While the identity of an alleged injured person may be disclosed to the respondent, the identity of the complainant is presumptively not disclosed to the respondent. All parties are expected to maintain confidentiality to the greatest extent possible, in alignment with privacy protections under FERPA and disability law.
- Balancing Privacy and Investigation - The College strives to protect the privacy of all individuals consistent with federal law, including ADA, Section 504, FERPA, and College policy. Confidentiality is maintained whenever possible; however, disclosure may be necessary to:
- Conduct a complete investigation of a complaint
- Ensure a safe and nondiscriminatory learning and working environment
- Protect the due process rights of the respondent
All records of accommodation requests and related actions will remain confidential, except where disclosure is required or permitted by law, including compliance with ADA, Section 504, FERPA or other applicable federal and state regulations.
Resources
Terra State Disability Services
Building B, Room 105
419.559.2139
https://www.terra.edu/disabilityservices
TERRA STATE DISABILITY SERVICES ACCOMMODATION APPEAL / GRIEVANCE FORM
https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?TerraStateCC&layout_id=8
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, OFFICE FOR CIVIL RIGHTS
https://www.ed.gov/about/ed-offices/ocr
OHIO CIVIL RIGHTS COMMISSION
https://civ.ohio.gov/
U.S. ACCESS BOARD
https://www.access-board.gov/
Sexual Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policy
Notice of Non-Sex Discrimination
Sex discrimination violates an individual’s fundamental rights and personal dignity. Terra State considers sex discrimination, to include, but not be limited to: sexual harassment, sexual assault, gender-based harassment, intimate partner violence, and stalking by employees, students, or third parties. To ensure compliance with Title IX and other federal and state civil rights laws, the College has developed policies and procedures that prohibit sex discrimination.
Notice Against Sexual Misconduct
Sexual misconduct in any form will not be tolerated within the Terra State Community College community. All members of the faculty, staff, administration, student body, volunteers, and visitors to campus have the right to be free from discrimination on the basis of sex. All members of the above mentioned groups are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others. Terra State Community College’s sexual misconduct policy has been developed to reaffirm these principles and to provide recourse for those individuals whose rights have been violated. This policy has dual purposes. It serves as a measure for the College to determine, after the fact, if behaviors have violated policy. It also provides general guidelines for the expectations the College has for sexual communication, sexual responsibility, and sexual respect.
Filing A Complaint:
Individuals who have experienced sex discrimination are encouraged to report these offenses to campus safety, to the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators, or to their direct supervisor. Individuals who wish to make a complaint do not have to provide a statement to Campus Safety. Any person who receives a complaint of sexual discrimination, harassment, or retaliation is expected to report the incident promptly.
Non-Retaliation
Terra State Community College strictly adheres to and enforces a non-retaliation clause. Retaliation against an individual who has complained about sexual discrimination, harassment and/or misconduct and retaliation against individuals for cooperating with an investigation of a sexual discrimination and/or harassment complaint is unlawful and will not be tolerated by the College. Any person who violates this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination if they are an employee, and/or dismissal if they are a student.
The following individual(s) have been appointed by the President to handle inquiries regarding this policy:
TBD, Director of Diversity and Inclusion and Title IX Coordinator
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: Roy Klay Hall A201H
Phone: 419.334.5900
Email:
Tim Shaal, Dean of Student Success
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: Academic Service Center B105
Phone: 419.559.2416
Email: tshaal01@terra.edu
Kelli Miller, Director of Human Resources
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: Human Resources B208
Phone: 419.559.2165
Email: vblack01@terra.edu
Campus Safety and Security
Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Road
Fremont, OH 43420
Office Location: E104
Phone: 419.559.2253
To view established grievance procedures for this policy please visit www.terra.edu.
Policy Statement
Terra State Community College is committed to maintaining a healthy, smoke-free, and vape-free environment for the College community and the public. Smoking, inhaling, or vaping any substance by any method is prohibited, including but not limited to tobacco products, e-cigarettes and vaping devices (disposable vapes, vape pens, mods, JUUL-type devices, and similar), aromatic smoking products such as clove or herbal cigarettes, aerosol devices, or any other similar device. Marijuana use or possession is strictly prohibited on college property, regardless of state law, in compliance with federal guidelines under the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA). This policy applies to all Terra State Community College employees, students, vendors, and visitors, and smoking or vaping is prohibited in all College buildings, immediate surrounding property, and the Terra Village Landings, except in designated outdoor smoking areas.
Policy Details
The areas designated for smoking or vaping on Terra State Community College Campus will be the following:
- The smoking huts located in the quadrangle outside of building A, D, and E
- The parking lots
- Truck Driving/ Motorcycle pad
Terra State Community College will adhere to the State of Ohio Smoking Laws. Violations will not be tolerated. Employees that violate these laws are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Students who violate these laws are subject to the student code of conduct violations. In accordance with federal law, marijuana in any form is strictly prohibited on all Terra State Community College grounds and Terra housing. State of Ohio Smoking Laws can be found at Ohio Smoking Laws . Terra State Community College Student Code of Conduct can be found at Student Code of Conduct.
To support the mission and vision of Terra State Community College, we will implement restorative justice practices that allow students to experience taking personal responsibility for harm caused to an individual and/or community. These practices empower harmed parties to confront the actions that have occurred, and the individuals who acted as the offender. This will provide a way for college community members to take ownership of problems, further demonstrating a culture of responsibility and accountability.
In accordance with the Code of Student Conduct, restorative justice:
Provides an opportunity for interaction between the Respondent and any harmed party or Complaining Witness, but also may involve the community in the decision-making process. Community participants may be anyone in the community concerned about the behavior. The goal is to provide everyone a voice in the process and bring understanding to all parties. Restorative conferences also facilitate collaboration in addressing any underlying problems that led to the incident, and deciding what is to be done.
Participation in a restorative conference is voluntary. All parties must willingly agree to attend. The Respondent must have previously accepted responsibility for the behavior in question in order for a restorative conference to occur. The Dean of Student Success or his/her designee provides annual training for restorative justice conference facilitators. Restorative justice may or may not result in additional restorative actions, depending on the outcome of the session.
ARTICLE A: DEFINITIONS
- The term “COLLEGE” means Terra State Community College.
- The term “STUDENT” includes all persons taking courses at the College both full-time and part-time, pursuing undergraduate, or non-credit studies and those who attend post- secondary educational institutions other than Terra State Community College. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the College are considered “students.”
- The term “RECOGNIZED STUDENT ORGANIZATION” means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for College recognition.
- The term “STUDENT GROUP” means a number of persons who are associated with the College and each other, but who have not registered, or are not required to register as a student organization (e.g., athletic teams, spirit groups, military organizations, honor societies, musical or theatrical ensembles, bands, or clubs).
- The term “FACULTY MEMBER” means any person hired by the College to conduct classroom or teaching activities or who is otherwise considered by the College to be a member of its faculty.
- The term “COLLEGE OFFICIAL” includes any person employed by the College performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.
- The term “MEMBER OF THE COLLEGE COMMUNITY” includes any person who is a student, faculty member, College official or any other person employed by the College. A person’s status in a particular situation shall be determined by the Dean of Student Success.
- 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.
- The term “SERIOUS PHYSICAL HARM” Includes, but is not limited to, any harm that involves disfigurement; protracted loss of use of or impairment of the function of a bodily part, organ, or mental faculty; substantial risk of death or emergency hospitalization; and/or unconsciousness.
- The term “SHALL” is used in the imperative sense.
- The term “MAY” is used in the permissive sense.
- The term “STUDENT DISCIPLINE COMMITTEE” means any person or persons authorized by the Dean of Student Success to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code and to recommend sanctions that may be imposed when a violation has been committed.
- The term “STUDENT CONDUCT OFFICER” means a College official authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Dean of Student Success to impose sanctions upon a student who has violated the Student Code. The Dean of Student Success may authorize a Student Conduct Officer to serve simultaneously as a Student Conduct Officer, the sole member, or one of the members of the Student Discipline Committee. The Dean of Student Success may authorize the same Student Conduct Officer to impose sanctions in all cases.
- The term “DISCIPLINE APPEALS COMMITTEE” means any persons authorized by the Dean of Student Success to consider an appeal from a Student Discipline Committee’s determination as to whether a student violated the Student Code.
- The term “POLICY” is defined as the written regulations of the College as found in, but not limited to, the College catalog, student handbook, College web pages and computer use policy.
- “LEVEL I” infractions of the Student Code are those for which the sanctions may be a warning, disciplinary probation, special restriction, loss of privileges, fines, restitution, imposed reassignment of course section, or assignments of discretionary sanctions. Level I violations will generally be heard by a Student Conduct Officer.
- “LEVEL II” infractions of the Student Code are those for which the sanctions may be, in addition to those listed in Level I, suspension, expulsion from the College, revocation, or withholding of a degree. Level II violations will generally be heard by the Student Discipline Committee.
- The term “HAZING” As defined by Ohio Revised Code, Section 2903.31 is Any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student or other organization or any act to continue or reinstate membership in or affiliation with any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person, including coercing another to consume alcohol or a drug of abuse, as defined in section 3719.011 of the Revised Code.
- The term “CHEATING” includes, but is not limited to (1) use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes or examinations; (2) dependence upon the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments; or (3) the acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the College faculty or staff.
- The term “PLAGIARISM” includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgment. Examples include: the submission of an assignment purporting to be the student’s original work which has been wholly or partly created by another person; the presentation as one’s own, another person’s ideas, organization, or wording without acknowledgment of sources; knowingly permitting one’s own work to be submitted by another student as if it were the student’s own; and the use of material from the Internet, videos, encyclopedias, books, magazines, student papers, and copyrighted material without indicating where the material was found. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials. This includes the unauthorized or improper use of Artificial Intelligence in the submission of coursework, unless explicitly approved by the course instructor.
- The term “SEXUAL HARASSMENT” is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature that is unwelcome and which, because of its severity and/ or persistence, interferes significantly with an individual’s or a group’s work or education, or adversely affects an individual or group’s living conditions.
- The term “SEXUAL EXPLOITATION” is defined as taking non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being exploited, such as prostituting another student, non-consensual video or audio-taping of sexual activity, going beyond boundaries of consent, voyeurism, or knowingly transmitting an STI or HIV to another student.
- The term “NON-CONSENSUAL INTIMATE TOUCHING” is defined as one person engaging in the intimate touching of another person, against such other person’s consent, or after such other person has withdrawn their consent, except that such intimate touching does not include oral, anal, or vaginal penetration or the fondling or manipulation thereof. This includes non-consensual kissing, or stroking, or fondling of a non-sexual body part, in an intimate way.
- The term “NON-CONSENSUAL SEXUAL CONTACT” is defined as the intentional touching, manipulation or fondling either of the victim by the perpetrator or when the victim is forced to touch directly or through clothing another person’s groin, genitals, breasts, thighs or buttocks or when a person is compelled to touch the above-named parts of their own bodies for the sexual gratification of another, against another person’s consent or after such other person has withdrawn their consent.
- The term ”NON-CONSENSUAL SEXUAL INTERCOURSE” is defined as any form of sexual intercourse with a person, without his or her consent, or after consent is withdrawn. This includes non-consensual anal, oral, or vaginal penetration, whether by a finger, tongue, penis, or an inanimate object, as well as compelling an unwilling person to perform any of the above-named acts.
- The term “INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE” (domestic violence and dating violence) is defined as violence by a current or former spouse, cohabitant, significant other, person similarly situated under domestic or family violence law, or anyone else protected under domestic or family violence law.
- The term “STALKING” is defined as the repeated following of or communicating with another person with the intent to kill, injure, harass, or intimidate in a manner causing that person to be under emotional duress and/or in reasonable fear of death or injury to his/herself.
- The term ”VOYEURISM” is defined as invading the privacy of another to videotape, film, photograph, or otherwise record the other person in a state of nudity and/or in a manner where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy.
- The term “REPORTING PARTY” means any person who submits a charge alleging a violation of this Student Code. When a person believes that they has been a victim of another student’s misconduct, the student who believes they has been a victim will have the same rights under this Student Code as are provided to the Responding Part, even if another member of the College community submitted the charge itself.
- The term “RESPONDING PARTY” means any student accused of violating this Student Code.
- The term “DISCIPLINARY HOLD” means a hold placed on a student’s academic record, which prevents registration (dropping and adding courses).
ARTICLE B: STUDENT CODE AUTHORITY
- The Dean of Student Success is that person designated by the College President to be responsible for the administration of the Student Code. The Dean of Student Success or designee shall develop procedures for the administration of the student conduct system and rules for the conduct of conferences, which are not inconsistent with provisions of the Student Code.
- The Dean of Student Success shall determine the composition of the Student Discipline Committee and Discipline Appeals Committee and determine which Student Discipline Committee, Student Conduct Officer, and Discipline Appeals Committee shall be authorized to hear each case.
- Decisions made by the Student Discipline Committee and/or a Student Conduct Officer designated by the Dean of Student Success, shall be final, pending the normal appeal process.
- A Student Discipline Committee may be designated as arbiter of disputes within the student community in cases, which do not involve a violation of the Student Code. All parties must agree to arbitration, and to be bound by the decision with no right of appeal.
ARTICLE C: JURISDICTION OF THE TERRA STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENT CODE
The Terra State Community College Student Code shall apply to conduct that occurs on College premises, at College-sponsored activities, and to off-campus conduct that adversely affects the College community and/or the pursuit of its objectives. Each student shall be responsible for his/her conduct and conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual awarding of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment (and even if their conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded). The Student Code shall apply to a student’s conduct even if the student withdraws from school while a disciplinary matter is pending. The Code also applies to conduct of students that occurs in the following contexts:
- Online or via telephone or electronic means (online classes, texting, internet, social media, etc.);
- At academic course requirement sites (internships, clinicals, field trips, experiential learning activities, etc.);
- At College-sponsored events (sporting events, travel on behalf of the College, community service trips, etc.);
- While utilizing the College’s computing or network services.
The Student Code of Conduct applies to guests of community members, whose student hosts may be held accountable for the misconduct of their guests. Visitors and guests of Terra State Community College are also protected by the Student Code of Conduct and may initiate a grievance.
The Dean of Student Success or designee shall decide whether the Student Code shall be applied to conduct occurring off campus, on a case-by-case basis, in his/her sole discretion. The Student Code of Conduct may be applied off campus when it is determined that the conduct has a substantial effect on the Terra State community. A substantial effect includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- An allegation, arrest, charge or conviction of a criminal offense as defined by Ohio law;
- Any situation where the student presents a danger or threat to the health and safety of self or others;
- Any situation that significantly impinges upon the rights, property, or achievements of self or others, or significantly breaches the peace and/or causes social disorder; and/or
- Any situation that is detrimental to the educational interests of Terra State Community College.
ARTICLE D: PROHIBITED CONDUCT
Any student found to have committed the following misconduct is subject to the disciplinary sanctions outlined in Article I:
- Violation of Published College Policies - Violation of any College policy, rule, or regulation published in hard copy, posted on campus or available electronically on the College’s website.
- Violation of Federal, State, or Local Law - Violation of federal, state, or local law on or off College premises or at College-sponsored or supervised activities.
- Actions that Endanger - Actions that endanger the student, the College or local community, or the academic process, or cause harm to others.
- Acts of dishonesty - Any act of dishonesty including but not limited to the following:
- Academic Dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic dishonesty.
- Furnishing false information to any College official, faculty member, or office.
- Forgery, alteration, or misuse of any College document, record, or instrument of identification.
- Helping or attempting to help another student commit an act of dishonesty.
- Any form of academically unethical behavior involving misuse of College computers.
- Tampering with the election of any College recognized student organization.
- Using any materials such as electronic devices, study aids, or artificial intelligence (AI) tools for any academic exercise without the instructor’s permission.
- Disruptive Behavior - Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, other College activities, including its public-service functions on or off campus, or other authorized non-college activities, when the act occurs on college premises.
- Harm to Others - Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, bullying, harassment, coercion, stalking and/ or other conduct that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work, academic performance, or creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive working or educational environment. This includes the utilization of technology as a vehicle to exhibit the above-mentioned behaviors.
- Sexual Misconduct - Acts of sexual misconduct, including but not limited to the following: sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, non-consensual intimate touching, non-consensual sexual contact, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, voyeurism, and non-consensual sexual intercourse.
- Theft - Attempted or actual theft of property of the College, property of a member of the College community, or other personal or public property.
- Hazing - Hazing, is defined by Ohio Revised Code, Section 2903.31 is Any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student or other organization or any act to continue or reinstate membership in or affiliation with any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person, including coercing another to consume alcohol or a drug of abuse, as defined in section 3719.011 of the Revised Code. Acts of hazing include but are not limited to:
- Purposefully, knowingly, recklessly, or negligently hazing any person.
- Involvement in the planning of hazing and/or being present during hazing.
- Failing to intervene to prevent or stop hazing if the individual has prior knowledge of a planned hazing activity.
- Failing to assist or seek assistance if the individual knows or reasonably should know that another is in danger from effects of hazing.
- Knowingly making a false accusation of hazing.
- Failing to report any information about suspected Prohibited Conduct if required to do so in Section 4 Mandatory Reporters and Reporting Requirements of the college Hazing policy.
- Failing to cooperate in an investigation of hazing, as defined as noncompliance with the Conduct Process as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.
- Retaliating against or taking adverse action toward any reporting party and/or person participating in a hazing investigation or disciplinary proceeding.
- Failure to Comply - Failure to comply with directions or reasonable requests of college officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties and/or failure to identify oneself when requested to do so.
- Unauthorized Entry & Trespassing - Unauthorized possession, duplication, use of keys to any College premises, or unauthorized entry to or use of College premises.
- Controlled Substances - Distribution of marijuana, heroin, narcotics, or other controlled substances except as expressly permitted by law; use or possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia.
- Alcohol - Use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, except as permitted by the law and College regulations, or public intoxication. Alcoholic beverages may not, in any circumstances, be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person under the age of 21.
- Weapons - Illegal or unauthorized possession of firearms, explosives, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals on College premises, or any object by its intended or actual use may be used to threaten or harm people, or damage or destroy property.
- Parking & Traffic - Students may park without a permit, in any of Terra State’s non-restricted parking areas. Parking on the bike path, sidewalks, fire lanes, or outside or across the boundaries of marked parking spaces is strictly prohibited. Handicapped, visitor parking, and other restricted parking areas (fire lanes) are clearly marked and require a permit for parking. Students parking in any College lot overnight must notify the Campus Safety and Security Office. Failure to abide by the College parking policies may result in towing, ticketing, or additional fees. Vehicles must, at all times, observe and adhere to all state law, posted traffic signs, speed limits, and pedestrian crosswalks.
- Obstruction of Traffic - Obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on college premises or at College- sponsored or supervised functions.
- Disorderly Conduct - Conduct which is disorderly, lewd, or indecent breach of peace, inducing panic, aiding, abetting, or procuring another person to breach the peace on College premises or social media platforms, functions sponsored by, or participated in by the College or members of the academic community. This includes but is not limited to public urination and streaking.
- Theft or Abuse of Computer Facilities and Resources - Theft or other abuse of computer time, including but not limited to:
- Unauthorized entry into a file, to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.
- Unauthorized transfer of a file.
- Unauthorized use of another individual’s identification and password.
- Use of computing facilities to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member, or college official.
- Use of computing facilities to send obscene or abusive messages.
- Use of computing facilities to interfere with normal operation of the college computing system.
- Any violation of the computing Acceptable Use Policy.
- Tampering with Telecommunication Services - Tampering with any telecommunication service, including but not limited to: telephone, cable television, and/or voice mail; providing unauthorized service to another room or suite by any means through unauthorized installation of wiring jacks or extensions.
- Electronic Recording
- Classroom Recording - Faculty have the right to control the classroom environment and to permit or deny permission to do electronic video or audio recording at their discretion. Students who have an accommodation letter from disability services must be granted permission to record. Unless otherwise expressly permitted by the instructor, permission to record a class applies exclusively to the student who received permission from the instructor. The recording may not be accessed or utilized by any other individual. No replication of the recording may be made without the instructor’s expressed permission.
- Unauthorized Recording or Monitoring - Using electronic or other means to watch or monitor, and/or to make a video, audio, or photographic record of any person in a location where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without the person’s prior knowledge or permission in each instance when such a recording is likely to cause injury, distress, or damage to reputation. The storing, sharing, and/or distributing of such unauthorized records by any means is also prohibited.
- Interference with College Activities - Participation in a campus demonstration which disrupts the normal operations of the College and infringes on the rights of other members of the College community to the extent that participation in such a demonstration is not protected by applicable law; leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/ or normal activities within any campus building or area; intentional obstruction which unreasonably interferes with freedom of movement, either pedestrian or vehicular on campus.
- Destruction of Property - Attempted or actual destruction, defacing, tampering with, materially altering or otherwise damaging property not one’s own; and/or creating a condition that endangers or threatens property not one’s own.
- Fire Safety - Unauthorized use, alteration or in any way tampering with fire equipment, safety devices, or safety equipment, and or starting a fire.
- Smoking/Tobacco Violations - Terra State Community College prohibits smoking or inhaling any substance, by any method, including, but not limited to, tobacco products, e-cigarettes, vaping devices and aromatic smoking products, such as clove cigarettes, herbal cigarettes, aerosol devices or any other similar device(s). Tobacco use is prohibited in all defined locations/areas at all times. Smoking is prohibited in any Terra State Community College building or immediate surrounding property with the exception of designated outdoor smoking area.
- Animals/Pets - No animals or pets are allowed inside any campus building at any time. Exceptions apply for registered service animals, who have been approved as an accommodation by The Office of Disability Services, and are accompanied by their handler.
- Shared Responsibility for Infractions
- Any action or inaction that contributes to a violation of College policies, including, but not limited to, planning, causing, facilitating, or aiding the violation, whether present during the violation or not.
- Students, recognized student organizations, and student groups may be held responsible for the conduct of their guests while on College premises, at College-sponsored or supervised activities, and at functions sponsored by any recognized student organization or group.
- Abuse of the Student Conduct System - including but not limited to:
- Failure to obey the summons of a Student Discipline Committee, Discipline Appeals Committee, Student Conduct Officer, or College official to appear for a meeting or conference as part of the Student Conduct System.
- Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before a Student Discipline Committee, or Student Conduct Officer.
- Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a proceeding.
- Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the Student Conduct System.
- Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a Student Discipline Committee or Discipline Appeals Committee prior to, and/or during, and/or after a student conduct proceeding.
- Harassment (verbal or physical), and/or intimidation of a member of a student conduct body prior to, during, and/or after a student conduct proceeding.
- Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Student Code.
- Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the Student Conduct System.
ARTICLE E: VIOLATION OF LAW AND COLLEGE CONDUCT
- College disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with conduct that potentially violates both the criminal law and this Student Code (that is, if both possible violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal 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 at the discretion of the Dean of Student Success. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under this Student Code shall not be subject to change because criminal charges arising out of the same facts that gave rise to violation of College rules or regulations were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant.
- 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 being processed under the Student Code, the College may advise off-campus authorities of the existence of the Student Code and of how much matters are typically handled within the College community. The College will cooperate with law enforcement or other agencies in the enforcement of criminal law on campus and in the conditions imposed by criminal courts for the rehabilitation of student violators (provided that the conditions do not conflict with applicable law). Individual students and other members of the College community, acting in their personal capacities, remain free to interact with governmental representatives as they deem appropriate.
- If a student is charged 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 by the College and sanctions imposed for grave misconduct which demonstrates flagrant disregard for the College Community. In such cases, no sanction may be imposed unless the student has been found guilty in a court of law or has declined to contest such charges, although not actually admitting guilt (e.g., “no contest” or “nolo contendere”).
ARTICLE F: STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT PROCESS
All suspected violations of the Code will be reviewed in accordance with the procedures outlined below.
- Disciplinary Correspondence - All disciplinary correspondence will be sent to the student’s official Terra State Community College e-mail address and/or current mailing address as listed with the Office of Student Records. The College reserves the right to use other reasonable means to notify students.
- Filing Complaints - Any member of the College community may file charges against any student for misconduct. Charges shall be prepared in writing and directed to the Dean of Student Success or designee. Any charge should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within forty-eight hours. The Dean of Student Success will designate himself/herself or a Student Conduct Officer to investigate the complaint. In cases of academic dishonesty and plagiarism, the Student Conduct Officer designated may be an academic official such as an academic dean. While action on a complaint of violating a College rule or regulation is pending, the status of the student shall not be altered except for reasons outlined in Section J.
- Presumption of Non-Violation - Any student charged with a violation under this Code shall be presumed not responsible until it is proven that, more likely than not, the violation of the rule or regulation occurred.
- Preliminary Investigation - When the Dean of Student Success or designee receives information, a student has allegedly violated College rules, regulations, local, state, or federal law, they shall investigate the alleged violation and determine whether further action is necessary. After completing a preliminary investigation, the Dean of Student Success or designee may:
- Find no basis for the complaint and dismiss the allegation as unfounded, or
- Contact the student for a discussion and either:
- Dismiss the allegation.
- Identify if the alleged violation(s) is equated to a Level I infraction and assign the case to a Student Conduct Officer to conduct a Student Conduct Meeting with the student(s).
- Identify if the alleged violation(s) is equated to a Level II infraction and schedule a conference with the Student Discipline Committee.
- Summoning a Student for a Student Conduct Meeting
ARTICLE G: STUDENT CONDUCT MEETING (INFORMAL RESOLUTION)
A Student Conduct Meeting is a meeting between the student(s) involved in an alleged violation of the Code and a Student Conduct Hearing Officer and may include sanctions. In some cases, the meeting may resolve the matter.
- The Student Conduct Officer shall provide the student with:
- Written notice of the charge(s) and an outline of rights.
- Review of all available information, documents, exhibits, and a list of witnesses that may testify against the student.
- Following receipt of the notice of charges, a student:
- May elect not to contest the charges and to accept responsibility for them. If this election is made, the student must sign a waiver of the right to a conference, and must accept the sanction imposed by the Student Conduct Officer. The decision to waive a conference and accept the sanction is final and not appealable.
- May contest the charges and elect to proceed to a conduct conference. The conference shall be scheduled not less than five (5) and no more than 20 calendar days from the student conduct meeting.
- If a respondent, with notice, does not appear to a scheduled meeting and/or does not respond to the request for a meeting after two notifications, the information in support of charges shall be presented and/or considered even if the respondent is not present.
- Upon resolution, the Student Conduct Administrator will present the alleged policy violation determination and sanction(s) (if applicable) to the respondent in writing.
- The student maintains their right to appeal such an outcome to the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning.
ARTICLE H: STUDENT CONDUCT CONFERENCE (FORMAL RESOLUTION)
A Student Conduct Conference provides the forum where parties to an allegation are afforded the opportunity to present information for review by a Student Discipline Committee presided over by the chair of the Committee and moderated by the Dean of Student Success. The Dean of Student Success is an ex-officio member of the committee. A time shall be set for a Student Discipline Committee conference, not less than five (5) nor more than 20 business days after the student (complainant, respondent, or both) has been notified. The maximum time limit for scheduling of conferences may be extended at the discretion of the Dean of Student Success or designee.
Conferences shall be conducted by the Student Discipline Committee according to the following guidelines, except as provided by Article K below:
- In cases in which the Student Discipline Committee has been authorized by the Dean of Student Success to conduct a conference, the recommendations of the members of the Student Discipline Committee shall be considered in an advisory capacity by the Dean of Student Success in determining and imposing sanctions.
- Composition: The Student Discipline Committee is composed of six members, including two faculty appointed by the Dean of Student Success or designee, one staff member and one administrator appointed by the Manager of Human Resources or designee, and two students appointed by the Terra State Student Government.
- Term of service: Members shall serve for one academic year and may continue to serve at the discretion of the Dean of Student Success.
- Student eligibility: All students, full-time or part-time, shall be eligible for recommendation to the Student Discipline Committee provided they have maintained a 2.50 cumulative grade point average, are not currently on disciplinary probation, and have not been suspended from the College.
- Training: All members of the Student Discipline Committee, upon receiving notice of appointment, shall be given all necessary information about their responsibilities and the means for carrying them out.
- Three members from the Student Discipline Committee will be chosen by the Dean of Student Success to hear a proceeding. The conference panel should consist of a faculty member, administrator or staff, and a student.
- Conferences normally shall be conducted in private.
- The Reporting Party and their advisors, the Responding Party and their advisors, if any, shall be allowed to attend the entire portion of the Student Discipline Committee conference at which information is received (excluding deliberations). Admission of any other person to the conference shall be at the discretion of the Student Discipline Committee and/or the Dean of Student Success, or designee.
- In the case of Student Discipline Committee conferences involving more than one student as the Responding Party, the Dean of Student Success or designee, at his/ her discretion may permit the Student Discipline Committee conference concerning each student to be conducted either separately or jointly.
- The Reporting Party and the Responding Party have the right to be assisted by any advisor they choose, at their own expense. The advisor may be an attorney. Reporting Party and the Responding Party are responsible for presenting his or her own information, and therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly in any conferences before the Student Discipline Committee. A student should select an advisor whose schedule allows attendance at the scheduled date and time for the Student Discipline Committee because delays will not normally be allowed due to the scheduling conflicts of an advisor.
- The Reporting Party, Responding Party, and the Student Discipline Committee may arrange for witnesses to present information to the Student Discipline Committee. The College will try to arrange the attendance of possible witnesses who are members of the College community, if reasonably possible, and who are identified by the Reporting Party and/or Responding Party at least two (2) business days prior to the Student Discipline Committee conference. Witnesses will provide information to and answer questions from the Student Discipline Committee. Questions may be suggested by the Reporting Party and/or Responding Party to be answered by each other or by other witnesses, with such questions directed to the chairperson, rather than to the witnesses directly. This method is used to preserve the educational tone of the conference and to avoid creation of an adversarial environment. Questions of whether potential information will be received shall be resolved at the discretion of the chairperson of the Student Discipline Committee, in consultation with the Dean of Student Success or designee.
- Pertinent records, exhibits, and written statements (including Student Impact Statements) may be accepted as information for consideration by the Student Discipline Committee, at the discretion of the Dean of Student Success.
- All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the Dean of Student Success.
- After the portion of the Student Discipline Committee conference concludes in which all pertinent information has been received, the Student Discipline Committee shall determine by majority vote whether it was more likely than not that the accused student violated each section of the Student Code that the student is charged with violating.
- The Student Discipline 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.
- Formal rules of process, procedure, and/or technical rules of evidence, such as are applied in criminal or civil court, are not used in Student Code proceedings.
- There shall be a single verbatim record, such as a transcription or tape recording, of all conferences before a Student Discipline Committee (not including deliberations). Deliberations shall not be recorded. Transcriptions and/or tapes made during Student Discipline Committee conferences shall be the property of the College. These materials are confidential. They are made available in case of appeal and, upon request, to the Discipline Appeals Committee deliberating the appeal.
- If the Responding Party, with notices, does not appear before a Student Discipline Committee conference, the information in support of the charges shall be presented and considered even if the Responding Party is not present. If the Responding Party fails to attend the conference, it shall be deemed that they deny all allegations. When appropriate, a sanction will be determined and both the Responding Party and Reporting Party will be notified in writing.
- The Student Discipline Committee may accommodate concerns for the personal safety, well-being, and/or fears of confrontation of the complainant, accused student, or other witness during the conference by providing separate facilities, by using a visual screen, and/or by permitting participation by telephone, videophone, audio tape, written statement, or other means, where and as determined in the sole judgment of the Dean of Student Success to be appropriate.
ARTICLE I: SANCTIONS
- The following sanctions may be imposed upon any student found to have violated the Student Code:
- WARNING - a notice in writing to the student that the student is violating or has violated institutional regulations.
- PROBATION - a written reprimand for violation of specified regulations. Probation is for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanction if the student is found to be violating any institutional regulation(s) during the probationary period.
- COLLEGE SUSPENSION-separation of the student from the College for a definite period of time, after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may be specified.
- COLLEGE EXPULSION- permanent separation of the student from the College. A notation shall be added to the student’s transcript by the college Registrar.
- LOSS OF PRIVILEGES - denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time.
- LOSS OF ACADEMIC CREDIT - forfeiture or reduction in the grade assigned for an assignment, project, quiz, test, or course due to academic dishonesty.
- FINES - previously established and published fines may be imposed.
- RESTITUTION - compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement.
- DISCRETIONARY SANCTIONS - work assignments, service to the College, or other related discretionary assignments (such assignment must have the prior approval of the Student Conduct Officer.)
- REVOCATION OF ADMISSION AND/ OR DEGREE - Admission to or a degree awarded from the College may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of College standards in obtaining the degree, or for other serious violations committed by a student prior to graduation.
- WITHHOLDING DEGREE - The College may withhold awarding a degree otherwise earned until the completion of the process set forth in this Student Code of Conduct, including the completion of all sanctions imposed, if any.
- Multiple Sanctions - More than one of the sanctions listed above may be imposed for any single violation.
- Academic Dishonesty Sanctions - Sanctions imposed for acts of academic dishonesty typically will follow a three-step progression. The sanctions for the first offense will include loss of academic credit for the assignment or loss of academic credit for the course and a warning. The sanctions for the second offense will include loss of academic credit for the assignment or loss of academic credit for the course and probation status for the duration of the student’s enrollment at the College. The sanction for the third offense is college expulsion. The instructor of record for the course in which the academic dishonesty took place may recommend to the conference officer whether a loss of academic credit for the assignment or course should be sanctioned. The Dean of Student Success or designee maintains records of Code of Conduct offenses.
- Parental Notification - Terra State Community Colleges reserves the right to notify parents or guardians of any conduct situation when alcohol and or narcotic/substance/ inhalant abuse or violations are suspected. The College may contact parents/guardians of dependents or non-dependent students who are under the age of 21. Terra State may also contact parents/guardians to inform them of situations in which there is an imminent health and/or safety risk.
- Conduct Records - Other than College suspension, expulsion, or revocation or withholding of a degree, disciplinary sanctions shall not be made part of the student’s permanent academic record, but shall become part of the student’s disciplinary record. Upon graduation, the student’s disciplinary record may be expunged of disciplinary actions other than College suspension or College expulsion, upon application to the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning. Cases involving the imposition of sanctions other than College suspension, expulsion, revocation, or withholding of a degree shall be expunged from the student’s disciplinary record three (3) years after the student completes all requirements for graduation.
- Education Records - In situations where both the Responding Party and Reporting Party are both students (or student group[s] or recognized student organization[s]), the records of the process and the sanctions imposed, if any, shall be considered to be the education records of both the Reporting and Responding Parties because the educational career and chances of success in the academic community of each may be impacted.
- Loss of Privileges or Recognition - The following sanctions, in addition to those listed above, may be imposed upon groups or student organizations: community service, including service to the College, loss of selected rights and privileges for a specified period of time, and/or deactivation/ loss of all privileges, including College recognition, for a specified period of time.
- Disciplinary Hold - A Disciplinary Hold may be placed on a student’s account, preventing registration, and shall not be removed, without permission of the Dean of Student Success, until a case is resolved and/or sanctions have been completed.
- Sanctioning - In each case in which a Student Conduct Officer determines a student has violated the Student Code, the recommendation of the Student Conduct Officer shall be considered by the Dean of Student Success or designee in determining and imposing sanctions. In cases in which the Student Discipline Committee has been authorized to determine a student has violated the Student Code, the recommendation of all members of the Student Discipline Committee shall be considered by the Dean of Student Success in determining and imposing sanctions. The Dean of Student Success is not limited to sanctions recommended by members of the Student Discipline Committee.
- Notice of Outcome - Following the Student Discipline Committee conference, the Dean of Student Success shall simultaneously advise the Responding Party and Reporting Party (including groups and organizations) in writing of the determination and/or the sanction(s) imposed, if any, and how to appeal. A copy of the notification will be retained in the Responding Party’s disciplinary record. Cases involving suspension, expulsion, revocation, or withholding of a degree will also be filed in the student’s academic record.
ARTICLE J: APPEALS
- Right to Appeal - A decision reached by a Student Conduct Hearing Officer or the Student Discipline Committee or a sanction imposed may be appealed by the accused student(s) or complainant(s) to the Discipline Appeals Committee within ten (10) school days of the decision. Such appeals shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning.
- The Discipline Appeals Committee is composed of three members:
- the president of the Terra Faculty Association;
- an administrator appointed by the College President; and
- the president of the Terra State Student Government or designee.
- Grounds for Appeal - Except as required to explain the basis of new evidence, an appeal shall be limited to review of the verbatim records and supporting documents of the conduct process for one or more of the following purposes:
- To determine whether the Student Conduct Meeting or the Student Conduct Conference was conducted fairly in light of the charges and evidence presented, and in conformity with prescribed procedures, giving the Reporting Party a reasonable opportunity to prepare and present evidence that the Student Code was violated, and giving the Responding Party a reasonable opportunity to prepare and to present a rebuttal of these allegations.
- To determine whether the decision reached regarding the Responding Party was based on substantial evidence, that is, whether the facts in the case were sufficient to establish that it was more likely than not that a violation of the Student Code occurred.
- To determine whether the sanction(s) imposed were appropriate for the violation of the Student Code, which the student was found to have committed.
- To consider new evidence, sufficient to alter a decision or other relevant facts because such evidence and/ or facts were not known and could not have been known to the person appealing at the time of the original conference.
- If the Discipline Appeals Committee upholds an appeal, the matter may be returned to the original Student Conduct Hearing Officer or the Student Discipline Committee for reopening of the Student Discipline Committee conference to allow reconsideration of the original determination and/or sanction(s).
- In cases involving appeals by students accused of violating the Student Code, the Discipline Appeals Committee may, upon review of the case, reduce but not increase the sanctions imposed by the Student Conduct Hearing Officer or the Student Discipline Committee.
- In cases involving appeals by persons other than student(s) accused of violating the Student Code, the Discipline Appeals Committee may, upon review of the case, reduce or increase the sanctions imposed by the Student Conduct Hearing Officer or the Student Discipline Committee.
- Following the appeal, the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning shall simultaneously advise the Reporting Party, Responding Party, Groups, and/or Organizations in writing.
ARTICLE K: INTERIM AND SUPPORTIVE MEASURES
When evidence exists that the ongoing presence of a person on the college premises may pose a threat to any person or may substantially impede the functions of the College, the Dean of Student Success may impose interim measures for a period of time pending action taken under the Student Code of Conduct. Interim measures may include but are not limited to suspension, separation from a class or classes, restriction from participating in athletic practices and competitions, restriction from participating in student organizations, restriction of access to College programs, services, or facilities; or barring the student from campus.
- For interim measures related to Title IX allegations, please refer to “Number 8, Emergency Removals” of the College’s Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Policy.
- A student will be notified of an interim measure by phone and/or in writing and the measure will take effect immediately. The interim measure will remain in effect until all student conduct proceedings have been completed. Every effort will be made to schedule the student conduct hearing as soon as possible.
- The interim measure does not replace the regular student conduct process, which shall proceed on the normal schedule, up to and through a student conduct hearing board.
- Interim Suspension - In certain circumstances, the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee may impose a College suspension prior to a student conduct meeting or a conduct conference before the Student Discipline Committee. Interim suspension is an action requiring a student immediately leave the campus and College property
- Interim suspension may be imposed only: a) to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the College community or preservation of College property; b) to ensure the student’s own physical or emotional safety and well-being; or c) if the student poses an ongoing threat of disruption of or interference with the normal operations of the College.
- During the interim suspension, the student 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 Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee may determine to be appropriate.
- An interim suspension may not be appealed.
- Voluntary Withdraw Agreement - In certain cases where a student’s behavior and continued enrollment may adversely affect his or her well-being or the College, the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee may work collaboratively with the student and his/her family to agree to discontinue the student’s attendance at Terra State for a specified period of time and agree to conditions for re-admittance to the College. In such instances, the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee and the student will sign a written withdrawal agreement.
- Temporary Restriction from Personal Contact - The Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee may temporarily restrict a student from any personal, verbal, written, telephone, electronic, and third- party contact with another person pending an investigation and/or conference whenever the contact could constitute a danger to the person or to the safety of the person or property, or the seriousness of the allegations warrants such action. Any student so restricted may obtain an explanation of the basis for such restriction upon request.
- General Restrictions - In certain cases where a student’s continued presence or involvement may adversely affect his or her well-being or the College or whenever the contact could constitute a danger to the person or to the safety of the person or property, or the seriousness of the allegations warrants such action, the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee may restrict the student involvement or presence in certain activities, events, or services. This may include separation from a class or classes, restriction from participating in athletic practices and competitions, restriction from participating in student organizations, restriction of access to College programs, services, or facilities; or barring the student from campus
- Withdrawal Prior to Student Conduct Proceedings - The student who withdraws or fails to return to the College while disciplinary action is pending will be ineligible for readmission until the outstanding matter is resolved. A Disciplinary Hold, preventing registration, may be placed on a student’s account pending the resolution of the conduct matter. The College reserves the right to formally restrict individual(s) from the campus grounds while such action is pending.
- Supportive Measures - The Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning or designee may temporarily take Supportive Measures which are individualized plans to assist those who report incidents of gender-based or sexual harassment or sexual assault to continue their education at Terra State. For interim measures related to Title IX allegations, please refer to Number 8 “Emergency Removals” of the College’s Title IX/Sexual Misconduct Procedures and Guidelines. This may include changes for either/both the Reporting Party and Responding Party. Supportive measures may include but are not limited to:
- Any other actions deemed appropriate by the Title IX Coordinator
- Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of campus
- Class schedule modifications, withdrawals, or leaves of absence
- Timely warnings
- Academic support, extensions, or other course or program-related adjustments
- Implementing contact limitations between parties
- Providing campus security escorts
- Safety planning
- Altering work agreements for employees or student-employees
- Education to the community or community subgroup(s)
- Student financial aid assistance
- Visa and immigration assistance
- Referral to community-based service providers
- Referral to the Employee Assistance Program
- Referral to counseling services, mental, and/or other health services
ARTICLE L: INTERPRETATION AND REVIEW
- Any question of interpretation regarding the Student Code shall be referred to the Dean of Student Success for final determination.
- The Student Code will be reviewed every three years under the direction of the Senior Vice President for Innovation and Strategic Planning.
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