Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations

The Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations applies to all College Credit Division students. As appropriate, it also applies to Adult Education and Continuing Education students.

1.0 Application

1.1 Kankakee Community College students are responsible for knowing and abiding by the Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations.

1.2 The current code of Campus Affairs and Regulations does not apply retroactively to situations/conditions which occurred when a previous edition was in force.

2.0 Admissions

2.1 High school graduates and non-graduates whose class has graduated are eligible for admission. Admission to the college will be consistent with Section 103-17 of the Illinois Public Community College Act.

2.2 Students are not required to submit official transcripts to confirm high school graduation, home school graduation or General Education Development (GED) certificate completion to be eligible for regular admission into most degree and certificate programs.

2.3 Admission to KCC does not guarantee enrollment in specific courses or programs. Students requesting admission to specific courses or programs must meet the criteria for those programs and courses.

Students requesting admission to transfer programs should have qualifications similar to those established by state universities for comparable programs. Students accepted on a provisional basis with deficiencies as defined by Public Act 86-0954 may be admitted to transfer programs by completing the number of transfer-level semester hours specified in the admission requirements for baccalaureate-transfer programs with a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or better. Students must submit assessment scores as proof of qualification and for academic advisement and placement. Transfer students exempted from assessment requirements will meet the admissions records obligation. Go to http://www.kcc.edu/admissions for more information.

2.4 Students seeking financial aid are subject to additional records requirements. Visit www.kcc.edu/financialaid for information.

2.5 The Social Security number will be requested, though not required, to process the admission form. After the admissions form has been processed, a permanent identification number will be assigned. If no social security number is provided, tax implications may arise.

2.6 The Admissions form must be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Registration.

2.7 Applicants planning to enroll:

Request the high school last attended to send an official transcript directly to the college.
An earned GED may be sent in place of a high school transcript, but the student must complete college administered testing for placement purposes. A GED may not meet specific program requirements where a high school prerequisite course and transcript verification is required.
Official transcripts of previously attended colleges or universities must be on file for coursework evaluations needed for graduations.
Transfer students seeking a degree/certificate who have previously earned an associate degree or higher are not required to provide a high school transcript to meet records requirements.
Students applying to health career programs are responsible to meet timelines and eligibility requirements. Information concerning health career requirements is available at www.kcc.edu/healthprograms/.
Before enrolling, international applicants must submit TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores as evidence of English language proficiency and evidence demonstrating the ability to meet financial obligations. Special admissions packets are available in Student Affairs or online at www.kcc.edu under Admissions and Registration. International students may be required to submit their transcripts from foreign colleges to an approved member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) to complete a course by course transcript evaluation.

2.8 Student admission and registration data are the property of the college. Information recorded on the official transcript is transferable to a third party only upon written consent of the student.

2.9 A student’s semester hour load may be limited by an advisor or the Academic Appeals Committee upon review of assessment scores, GED scores, academic records, or the lack of academic records.

2.10 Students will be initially classified in a curriculum based on their Admissions Form and the criteria for the requested program.

2.11 High school students enrolling in general courses:

High school students 16 and older must request that their high school transcripts be sent directly to the KCC Office of Admissions and Registration.

Students under 16 years of age are required to meet with the dean of student development to review their appropriate enrollment in classes. Students must provide college placement scores and be eligible for high school before they are considered for admission.
*Students wishing to enroll in continuing education classes may enroll in courses or programs specifically designed for this age group.

2.12 Non-high school students less than 18 years of age may be asked to submit written verification of their severance from the high school of their legal residence before enrolling at KCC.

3.0 Attendance and Campus Behavior

3.1 Regular attendance at scheduled class sessions is expected. Refer to your course syllabus for classroom policies.

3.2 Administrative Withdrawal

Students who are reported at mid-term by their instructors on the mid-term grade lists as non-attending/failing “F” (not actively pursuing completion of the course) will be institutionally withdrawn from those courses and will have final grades of WX recorded on their transcripts. The WX grade is treated the same as a withdrawal (W) grade. When the semester or term ends, “WX” will be officially recorded as the final grade.

An instructor may ask a student whose behavior is disruptive to leave the classroom. If an instructor feels a student’s behavior justifies dismissal from a course, program or the college, a recommendation shall be submitted to the dean of student development for consideration, recommendation, and action. The dean of student development will initiate an investigation of reported violations in accordance with college policy for student due process (see section 18.3).

3.3 The instructor has the right to record the grade of F for the course, reduce a student’s grade or submit an institutional withdrawal request to Admissions and Registration if a student has excessive absences as defined in the course syllabus.

3.4 If an instructor is more than 15 minutes late in arriving at a class session, the students may be excused.

3.5 Classroom visitors are prohibited without prior permission from the instructor. Approved visitors to laboratory classes are required to have approved safety equipment.

3.6 For their safety and well-being, children are not permitted in classes, in the testing center, in computer, or tutoring labs, or in employee work areas.

Also, for safety reasons, children under age 14 cannot be left unattended. This includes KCC campus property and vehicles, satellite centers, employee work areas, and college events. In the event a child under the age of 14 years is left unattended, KCC employees will notify campus security and the dean of student development to locate the parent/guardian and document the incident. Every effort will be made to locate the child’s parents/guardians before contacting the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

4.0 Credit, Grades and Grade Points

4.1 KCC uses the semester hour system. The academic year consists of two semesters (fall and spring) and a summer term.

4.2 Class standing is determined by the total number of hours earned by a student. The classification follows:

0-29 hours earned = Freshman
30-64 hours earned = Sophomore
65 or more hours earned = Advanced
Degree or advanced certificate earned = Graduate
Concurrent enrollment in high school = Dual enrolled

4.3 Academic load and status for a semester:

12 semester hours or more (maximum of 18) = full-time

9-11 semester hours = 3/4 time (part-time)

6-8 semester hours = 1/2 time (part-time)

below 6 semester hours = less than 1/2 time (part-time)

Summer terms are prorated.

4.4 A four-digit course number is assigned to each college course. The first digit (extreme left) identifies the course as a remedial (0), first-year (1), or second-year (2) course. Remedial, continuing education, and other courses with first digits of 0, 3, 4, or 5 are not applicable to college degree programs. Second digits of 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 generally indicate courses within occupational curricula. Second digits of 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 generally indicate courses within transfer curricula. Third digits of 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, or 7 may indicate that the course is one of a sequence and where that particular course falls within the sequence. The fourth digit (extreme right) generally indicates the number of credit hours awarded for the course.

4.5 Final course grades are used to compute grade point averages (GPA). Only KCC courses for which the first digit in the course number is either a “1” or “2” will be used to calculate GPA.

4.6 A semester/term GPA is computed as follows:

Multiply the hours of credit in each course by the grade point value of the grade earned.
Add the grade points earned for all courses attempted during the term. (“Courses attempted” are courses for which grades other than those specified in Section 4.9 are received.)
Divide the total grade points earned by the credit hours attempted.

4.7 A cumulative GPA is the total number of grade points earned in all semesters/terms divided by the total number of semester hours attempted in all semesters/terms.

4.8 The following grading system is used at KCC:

Grade	Grade Point Value
A - Outstanding quality	4
B - High quality	3
C - Satisfactory quality in meeting minimum course requirements	2
D - Quality below satisfactory level established for course	1
F - Failure	0
S - Satisfactory	0
I - Incomplete	0
PR - Proficiency	0
AU - Audit	0
U - Unsatisfactory	0
W - Withdrawal	0
WA - Withdrawn for active duty	0
WX - Institutionally withdrawn for non-attendance	0
X - Grade deleted by approval of petition or when course is repeated	0

4.9 Grades of S, I, PR, AU, U, W, WA, WX, X, DX and FX are not included in any grade point average. An R next to the grade indicates a repeated course.

4.10 A request for an “I” (Incomplete) will be granted upon the request of the student and the written approval of the instructor. Such an approved request must be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Registration prior to the final examination for the course. The course work must be completed by the date specified on the request; but is not to exceed six months from the ending date of the semester/term. If the work is not completed by the specified time, a grade of F will be recorded. The incomplete work must be made up through independent study.

4.11 A student may register to audit a class if he/she meets all course prerequisites and may only register during late registration. Full tuition and fees are assessed for auditing a course. If the student completes the course, an audit designation of “AU” will appear on the student’s permanent record. Auditing students are expected to complete all course requirements. Courses may be audited multiple times.

A change from credit to audit is not permitted, but a student may change from audit to credit prior to the mid-term of a course if he/she receives written approval from the instructor of the class and the dean of instruction. These written approvals must be obtained by the student and presented to the Office of Admissions and Registration prior to the mid-point of the course. Audits are not permitted for Fitness Center enrollments.

4.12 Course withdrawals made before the refund deadline, as designated on the registration statement, will not be included on a the student’s permanent record. A course withdrawal after the refund deadline, but before the withdrawal period ends for that specific course, will be recorded as a W grade. Students who violate the KCC student code of conduct may not be eligible to withdraw from the course due to the imposed sanction. Additionally, a student may have a temporary hold on their account, so they can neither withdraw from the course nor register for future courses until the current matter is settled. See section 17.6 for prohibited student conduct.

4.13 The last date for withdrawal from a course(s) is dependent upon the length of the course as established on the following basis:

14-week and 16-week courses
20 school days after the mid-point
6-week and 8-week courses
10 school days after the mid-point
4-week course
5 school days after the mid-point
Courses offered which may vary in length from the above will be treated on the same prorated basis.

Deadlines to petition the Academic Appeals Committee for a late withdrawal from a course are:

Spring semester course: The last day of the following fall semester.
Summer session course: The last day of the following fall semester.
Fall semester course: The last day of the following spring semester.

Petition and appeal are addressed in Section 21.0.

4.14 Students who need to withdraw from all classes after the deadline (due to special circumstances such as health emergency, employment issues, or family crisis) can appeal to the dean of student development. All appeals will require supporting documentation. See withdrawal deadlines above. KCConnect and the registration statement include important details on withdrawal deadlines.

4.15 The grade submitted to the Office of Admissions and Registration at the end of the academic session is final. A faculty member’s recommendation for change of a grade must receive written approval from the associate dean for that division before being acted upon by the Office of Admissions and Registration.

4.16 Unless otherwise officially designated, a student who receives a grade of D or F in a course may repeat the course only once for the purpose of improving his or her grade, and only the latter grade will enter into the computation of the semester/term and cumulative GPA. This regulation applies only to KCC courses. Students who still fail to improve their grade and need to take the course for a third time must petition the Academic Appeals Committee. A fourth petition requires the student to appear in person at the next committee meeting. Petition and appeal are addressed in Section 21.0.

4.17 Students enrolled and subsequently called for active duty with the United States Armed Services during that semester or term will be extended the following privileges:

Full refunds of tuition and fees will be granted through the midterm of enrollment after submission of official written orders to report for active duty.
An official withdrawal from class(es) designation will be granted for students who are ordered to active duty before the end of the course.

4.18 Pass/Fail Grading Option (S-F)

The pass/fail grading option is designed to allow students an alternative grading option.

A maximum of 10 semester hours, which apply to the student’s curriculum, may be earned using the pass/fail option. Only courses specified by the division and approved by the Curriculum and Academic Standards Committee may be designated pass/fail. Divisions will have the option of allowing students to elect the pass/fail option themselves or to designate a course as pass/fail option only.

Students must request the pass/fail grading option by completing a written request in the Office of Admissions and Registration before the midterm of the course. Students may elect to return to the regular grading system by filing an amended written request in the Office of Admissions and Registration before the mid-term of the course.

Student performance at a level of “C” or better is required in order to receive a satisfactory grade of S. Performance below a “C” level will be assigned an F grade which represents no credit earned and will be included in the grade point average and hours attempted. Satisfactory grades in pass/fail courses are not included in the grade-point average but are included as part of the total credit hours earned.

The repeat course regulation applies in the same manner to the pass/fail option as in the standard grading system. Students who receive an F grade in a course may repeat the course only once for the purpose of improving their grade. Only the latter grade will enter into the computation of the semester/term and cumulative GPA. If a course is designated as repeatable for credit, all applicable grades will remain on the student’s permanent academic transcript.

4.19 Grade Forgiveness

Students who officially complete a curriculum change may file a petition with the Office of Admissions and Registration to exclude the D or F grade from their GPA in KCC courses which cannot be applied to the new curriculum. The grade will remain on the transcript and an “X” will appear next to the grade which was forgiven. This petition will be considered after 12 hours have been completed with a grade of C or better in each of the KCC courses earned toward the new curriculum. Only KCC D or F grades earned prior to the 12 hours of new curriculum work can be changed to X grades. Though grades may be forgiven, students’ warning and suspended statuses will remain on record.

4.20 Students may file a “Grade Forgiveness Petition” with the Office of Admissions and Registration to request removal of D and/or F grades (maximum 15 credit hours) from computation of their KCC GPAs if they satisfy the following conditions:

The student must have re-enrolled at KCC after a lapse of two calendar years or longer since being enrolled in a credit division course at KCC.
The student must have completed a minimum of 12 semester hours of credit division coursework at KCC since enrolling after the lapse. These additional semester hours must apply to his/her current curriculum, and the student must have earned a grade of C or better in each course. Proficiency credit and transfer credit do not apply.
The student must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or lower.

If the petition is granted, the original grade(s) will remain on the transcript, and an “X” will appear next to the deleted grade(s) which no longer will be used to compute the KCC GPA.

This forgiveness policy may be used only once by a student and does not apply to non-credit division courses such as those with course numbers from 0001 to 0999, Adult Education courses, Continuing Education courses, or Corporate Education courses.

4.21 Students may petition their advisor for permission to repeat a science course required for restricted health programs, or an occupational or developmental course, if he/she has earned a grade of C or higher, and there has been a lapse of time or change in course content which justifies a need to repeat the course. All other requests to repeat a successfully completed course must be approved by the Academic Appeals Committee.

5.0 Academic Honors

5.1 To be eligible for the President’s List, a student must achieve a semester/term GPA of 3.80 or higher while carrying six or more semester hours.

5.2 To be eligible for the Honors List, a student must achieve a semester/term GPA of 3.25 to 3.79 while carrying six or more semester hours.

6.0 Academic Warning and Suspension for Poor Scholarship

6.1 A student will be informed of academic warning at the close of any semester/term that he/she fails to maintain a cumulative grade point average according to the following progressive scale:

Semester Hours	Minimum Cumulative
1-15	No Minimum
16-30	1.5
31-45	1.75
more than 45	2.0

6.2 A student who is informed of academic warning must have a conference with an advisor before he/she may register again, and he/she may be restricted as to the number of hours enrolled.

6.3 Students who have received academic warnings will be allowed to finalize registration by payment of tuition and fees for the next term/semester but will be institutionally withdrawn if they are academically suspended prior to the start of the next term or semester.

6.4 A student will be suspended for academic reasons if at the end of a term/semester the student:

has been on academic warning at the start of the current term/semester and remains on academic warning at the end of that term/semester; and
does not attain a semester GPA of at least 2.0 during that term/semester and would remain on academic warning at the end of that term/semester.

6.5 Students may enroll in courses with a first digit of “0” (e.g. WRIT), Adult Education courses, Corporate Education courses, and Continuing Education courses while on academic suspension.

7.0 Readmissions

7.1 Students may be required to file for readmission to the college if they have not attended KCC for a period in excess of three years.

7.2 Students academically suspended for the first time from KCC are eligible for readmission after one semester. Petition and appeal are addressed in Section 21.0.

7.3 Students academically suspended twice from KCC are eligible for readmission after two semesters. The summer term does not apply to the suspension period. Petition and appeal are addressed in Section 21.0.

7.4 Students academically suspended more than twice from KCC must petition the Academic Appeals Committee for readmission following a one-year suspension and appear in person at the next committee meeting. Petition and appeal are addressed in Section 21.0.

7.5 Students suspended for disciplinary reasons from KCC must send a written request to the dean of student development to be considered for readmission.

7.6 Students readmitted following academic suspension may be allowed a limited academic load during the first term/semester of their readmission.

8.0 Credit by Examination

8.1 A maximum of one-fourth of the credit for a degree or certificate may be earned by proficiency or other recognized test instrument.

8.2 For the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), college credits may be granted for tests completed.

Credit will be awarded to specific equivalent courses based upon the recommended standard by CLEP and the college’s recommended credit.

8.3 For the Advanced Placement (AP) examination, college credit may be granted for tests which are completed with a score of three (3) or higher. Credit will be awarded for specific equivalent courses.

8.4 Credit earned through proficiency examinations will be added to the total credit and entered on the student transcript as Credit by Proficiency, “PR.”

8.5 Proficiency Examination Procedures:

A student who has an Admissions Form on file at KCC may petition for a proficiency examination. A student may not sit for a proficiency examination to earn credit for a course in which he/she already has received a grade, nor may he/she register for credit in a course for which proficiency credit has previously been received. Furthermore, a student may not receive proficiency credit for a courAse when he/she has completed a higher-level course in the same discipline, as determined by the appropriate division associate dean/program director. Upon successful completion of the proficiency examination, credit will be recorded. The student requesting a proficiency examination will meet with the appropriate associate dean/program director/faculty to determine eligibility and obtain the necessary petition. Eligibility is determined by proof of work experience, life experience, independent study, or industry recognized credential. Not every course will be eligible for a proficiency examination.
The appropriate associate dean/program director will determine a student’s final eligibility for proficiency and whether the student is allowed to sit for said proficiency exam.
A student desiring general information about a proficiency exam may contact the appropriate division associate dean/program director. If the division associate dean/program director determines that the student may sit for the exam, a non-refundable examination fee must be paid to the Accounting Office at the time the petition is filed.
Upon payment of the examination fee, the petition will be sent to the appropriate division associate dean/program director who will schedule the exam at a time that is agreeable to both the student and the test administrator. The examination will be taken within 10 class days of payment of fees.
The division associate dean/program director/faculty or his/her designate is responsible for administering and scoring the examination.
Prior to the examination, the associate dean/program director will provide the student with the following:
1) the course syllabus
2) a description of the type of proficiency test to be given.
The results of the exam will be transmitted to the Office of Admissions and Registration, which will inform the student in writing of the results.
If a student wishes to take proficiency examination for course(s) in which he/she is presently enrolled, he/she must complete the examination(s) prior to the mid-term date. If a student successfully passes the proficiency examination(s), he/she must complete a withdrawal in Student Affairs prior to the mid-term of the course(s) to avoid receiving a grade for that enrollment. A refund will only be given during the designated refund date for the course.
A student may be required to pass an exam for health career and/or occupational programs to prove competency in certain course work toward the degree in order to advance in the program, though additional credit is not awarded on the transcript. The student must fill out the proficiency form with the division associate dean/program director.
A student may take a proficiency examination for a course only one time.

9.0 Credit Granted for Work Completed While in the United States Armed Forces

9.1 Students who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces will be granted applicable college credit which applies to their program upon presentation of appropriate official military transcripts to the office of Admissions and Registration.

All evaluations of credit will be made on the basis of recommendations issued by the American Council on Education in its Guide to the Educational Experiences in the Armed Services. Credit will be awarded for courses completed and not for the Military Occupational Skill (MOS).

10.0 Acceptance and Evaluation of Transfer Credits

10.1 Credit earned at Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognized colleges or universities which are regionally accredited (i.e. Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; New England Association of Schools and Colleges; the Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, or Western Association of Schools and Colleges) will be accepted for transfer.

The National Home Study Council, Career College Association, (i.e., Association of Independent Colleges and Schools, and Accrediting Commission on Trade and Technical Schools) are not recognized for acceptance of college transfer credit.

Transfer credit from foreign colleges and universities will be reviewed after an approved agency completes an official evaluation of credit. KCC will make the final determination as to acceptance of credit.

10.2 Transfer credits which are evaluated as equivalent to KCC courses or as elective credit will be used toward requirements for the KCC degree or certificate sought. Only transfer credit with an earned grade of C or higher and proficiency credit will be accepted.

11.0 Requirements for Graduation

11.1 A candidate for an associate degree or a certificate should submit a petition for graduation to the Office of Admissions and Registration at least seven (7) working days prior to the commencement ceremony to participate. Late petitions will be processed, but participation in commencement cannot be guaranteed. Late petitions received after the summer term ends will require the approval of the Graduate Review Committee. Students who can reasonably expect to complete a program at the end of a summer term may petition to participate in the spring commencement ceremony.

11.2 To be eligible for graduation from KCC, a student must have settled financial and records obligations with the college. Records obligations are specified in the admissions policies (listed in section 2.0 of these regulations).

11.3 To qualify as a candidate for a degree, advanced certificate or certificate, a student must pass courses required in the curriculum and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 for all course work included for that degree, advanced certificate or certificate, as well as a 2.0 cumulative GPA for all courses. Course substitutions must be approved by the Graduate Review Committee. Upon completion, associate degree and certificate credentials will automatically be posted to the student’s transcript.

11.4 Students enrolled in a health career curricula must complete all required courses in the program with a minimum grade of C. If students perform below a “C” level in a course which is a prerequisite for an advanced health career course, they must repeat the course. The repeated course must be completed with a C or better grade before enrolling in the advanced course.

Beginning with the first day of class in a health career program, the student must complete required courses for a certificate program within two (2) academic year or an associate degree within three (3) years unless otherwise approved by the appropriate program director.

11.5 Graduates of KCC must satisfy the following residency requirements:

To obtain a degree, a student must either earn 35 semester hours in KCC courses or 15 of the final 30 hours toward that degree in KCC courses.
To obtain an advanced certificate at KCC, a student must earn at least one-half of the required credits through KCC courses.
To obtain an additional degree or advanced certificate, a student must earn a minimum of 15 hours through KCC courses toward that second degree. Those 15 hours must not have been used toward a previous degree or advanced certificate.
Proficiency and similar tests do not satisfy residency requirements.

11.6 Students may graduate according to curricular requirements:

In effect at the time of their graduation; or
In effect not more than four years prior to the anticipated date of graduation only if the student was officially enrolled in that same curriculum during the academic year which corresponds to the year of the catalog under which the student wishes to graduate. Dates of effect for curricula will be according to catalog issues. Catalog editions expire at commencement of the year(s) of issue.

11.7 The Graduate Review Committee consists of the vice president for instructional and student success, the dean of student development, and the division associate dean(s) whose department(s) is (are) affected by the requested substitution(s).

11.8 The Graduate Review Committee has the authority to grant exceptions to graduation requirements. A majority opinion will dictate action.

12.0 Privacy Act and Directory Information

12.1 In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and all amendments, any unit of the college holding student records shall obtain written consent of the student before disclosing personally identifiable information other than directory information from his/her educational records. Student educational records are under the direct supervision and coordination of the Registrar, while records on disciplinary actions are held by the dean of student development. Students are afforded the following rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access. Students should submit a written request that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect to the Office of Admissions and Registration. The college will make the arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. The college shall respond to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of the records.
The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate. Students who believe that information in their records is inaccurate, misleading, or violates privacy may make a request to the Registrar to amend the records. In a written statement to the registrar, students should identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or violates their privacy. If the registrar decides not to amend the record as requested, the student will be notified in writing of the decision and will advise the student of his/her right to request a hearing to the dean of student development regarding the request for amendment. Additional information will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information (not “Directory Information”) contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. An exception to the disclosure statement without student consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is defined as a person employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the college has a contract to provide a service instead of using college employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the board of trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his/her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional responsibilities for the college. Also exempt are officials of other colleges, universities, or schools in which the student intends to enroll; and in compliance with a judicial order or subpoena, provided the student is informed before the information is released.
FERPA also gives certain rights to parents regarding their children’s educational records. Parents of legally dependent students have the right to inspect the records even without the student’s written permission. A parent may prove that a student is dependent by producing official copies of the current year’s federal income tax return which identifies the student as a dependent for income tax purposes.

In the event of a perceived health or safety issue, the college may disclose pertinent non-directory information to any person who’s knowledge is necessary to protect the health and safety of the students or other individuals, including designated emergency contact and law enforcement or health care professionals.
The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the college to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

12.2 KCC hereby designates the following categories of student information as public or “Directory Information”: name, address, telephone number, enrollment status (full- or part-time), dates of attendance, most recent institution attended, major field of study, awards, honors, degrees conferred (including dates), past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities, physical data (height and weight of athletes only), date and place of birth, e-mail address, and photo ID. Such information may be disclosed to inquiring parties at the discretion of the college.

Under provision of FERPA, currently enrolled students may prevent disclosure of information under FERPA by completing the “Student Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information” to the Registrar during the first 10 days of the semester. The form is available in Admissions and Registration. Once received, all directory information will be withheld until such time that the student notifies the Registrar in writing to have the hold removed. Note: if a student places a hold on directory information at the time of graduation or withdrawal from the college, the college will be unable to comply with any directory information requests received after the student’s departure. The student must consider the consequences of any decision to withhold directory information, because future requests for such information from other schools, prospective employers or other persons or organizations will be refused. The college assumes no liability for honoring the student’s instructions to withhold information. Only a student who is currently enrolled at the college may suppress directory information. If the form is not received in the Office of Admissions and Registration by the 10th day of the semester, it is assumed that the above information may be disclosed.

If a student wishes to have his/her attendance, academic progress, financial information, etc., discussed by staff/instructor with another person(s) whom the student designates, the student must first complete and present the “FERPA Release Form” to the Registrar. All forms may be obtained by the Office of Admissions and Registration or from the KCC web site at www.kcc.edu/ferpa/.

Students are annually informed of the FERPA Act through this section in the official college catalog and through the web site mentioned above.

13.0 Academic Eligibility

13.1 To be eligible to participate in intercollegiate athletics, a student must meet National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) eligibility standards.

13.2 To be eligible for Student Advisory Council, a student must be currently enrolled in a minimum of six hours and maintain a minimum of a 2.25 cumulative GPA at KCC.

14.0 Registration

14.1 Students must register during registration dates which are published in this catalog and other registration publications.

14.2 Students requesting permission to register after the end of the scheduled registration period must obtain written permission from the instructor(s) involved. Instructors are not obligated to allow students to register after the end of the late registration period.

14.3 Before registering for their second semester/term, degree/certificate seeking students must have a Master Academic Plan on file.

15.0 Change of Schedule

15.1 Students wishing to add or drop a class or withdraw from the college must complete a Change of Schedule form, including the required signatures. The form is available in Student Affairs and at www.kcc.edu/admissions.

15.2 For changes of schedule, signatures are required under the following circumstances:

To add a class during late registration: advisor signatures are required on schedule changes. Instructor signatures are required to enroll in a closed (filled) class.

To add a class after late registration: instructor and/or advisor signatures are required.

16.0 Reporting an Emergency or Other Concern

16.1 In case of an emergency, phone 911 then notify college security at 815-802-8190; or utilize security phones in the parking lot.

To report a potential or current concern, use the following contact options.

Phone KCC police department: 815-802-8195

Phone KCC Public Safety department: 815-802-8199

Email Behavioral Intervention Team: bit@kcc.edu

Online anonymous report: http://www.kcc.edu/reportacrime

Online report of discrimination, harassment or misconduct: www.kcc.edu/titleix

All concerns and reports are confidential.

16.2 The college reserves the right to call an ambulance and/or the Kankakee Police Department if a student appears to be in imminent danger of harming himself/herself or has threatened to harm others.

16.3 The state of Illinois Public Act 099-0278 requires that an institution of higher learning provide all students the opportunity to authorize in writing the disclosure of certain private mental health information to a designated person.

KCC may disclose a student's mental health information if a qualified examiner employed by the college determines that the student poses a clear danger to himself, herself, or others. This action can be taken to protect the student or other person against a clear, imminent risk of serious physical or mental injury or disease or death being inflicted upon the person or by the student on himself, herself, or another.

The information from the qualified examiner will be disclosed to the designated person as soon as practical, but no more than 24 hours after making the mental health determination. A designated person can be a parent, guardian, or other person over age 18 designated by a student to receive disclosure of certain private mental health information.

17.0 Code of Conduct

17.1 Purpose:

KCC is an educational institution with a collegiate environment and thus has an obligation to adopt rules and regulations that both respect and protect the rights of its students and the college community. Admission to KCC carries with it the expectation that students will conduct themselves as responsible members of the college community, that they will comply with established rules and regulations of the college, maintain high standards of honesty and integrity, and respect the rights, privileges, and property of other members of the college community. As a postsecondary institution of higher education, KCC encourages students to rise above the minimum standards, and work to build a community of learners where all members of the college community show respect for the views of others and to accept responsibility for their own actions. The violation of KCC policies, rules and regulations is counterproductive to building a learning community. Hence, the college will act immediately to protect the life and property of KCC, while maintaining and balancing the rights of students and the KCC community. The right of every student to learn will be protected by implementing the KCC Code of Conduct. Every student who accepts enrollment at KCC agrees to abide by all policies, rules and regulations published at the college. To this end, the college is committed to a community of learners where all students have the same opportunity to succeed.

17.2 Scope:

The Code of Conduct is enforced to prevent conduct which adversely affects the pursuit of educational goals. The Code of Conduct shall apply to student conduct on college premises; to conduct that occurs at or in connection with college-sponsored activities; and to off-campus conduct that in the judgment of the college adversely affects the college community or the pursuit of its objectives.

Jurisdiction extends to locations in which students are engaged in official college activities including, but not limited to, foreign or domestic travel, athletic events, activities taking place in student-athlete housing, training internships, cooperative and distance education, on-line education, practicums, supervised work experiences, and any other college-sanctioned or club activities.

Students are responsible for their conduct from the time they are notified of their acceptance for admission through the actual receipt 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. These standards shall apply to a student's conduct even if the student withdraws from the college while a disciplinary matter is pending.

A report may be filed against a student or student organization charged with a violation of a law that is also a violation of this Code if both violations result from the same factual situation, independent of any pending criminal prosecution or civil litigation. Proceedings under the Code may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following criminal prosecution or civil litigation.

17.3 Definitions

Appellate Body – Any person or persons (e.g. appeals review board) authorized by the President or designee to consider and handle student conduct appeals in accordance with this policy and procedures related to this policy. The President or designee is authorized to reassign any and all of the student conduct appellate body’s duties or responsibilities as set forth by college policy.
Business Day – A week day, excluding weekends, college holidays and Fridays during in May, June and July.
Charged Student – The student or student organization accused of violating the Code of Conduct or any college policy. Also referred to as “Respondent” or “Responding Party.”
College – The term “college or KCC” means Kankakee Community College.
College Community – Any person who is a/an faculty, staff member, student, alumni or affiliate of KCC.
College Premises – Shall include all campuses and grounds of the college, indoors and outdoors, wherever located, and includes all land, buildings, facilities, vehicles, equipment, fixtures, and other property owned, used, or controlled by the college.
College-sponsored Activity – Any activity, event, function, program, or service on or off college properties that is organized, sponsored, supervised, or directly initiated by the college, including its employees on behalf of the college, and including registered student organizations.
Complainant – Any person who files or reports a complaint alleging that a student or student organization violated the Code of Conduct or college policies. Complainant also refers to the college when the college initiates the complaint. In certain circumstances, depending on the underlying facts of the alleged violation, the Complainant may also be the victim of the alleged violation. In other circumstances, the victim may be a different individual than the person filing the complaint.
Disciplinary Procedures – The process by which the college imposes discipline against a student for an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct.
Faculty – Any person employed by the college to conduct classroom or teaching activities or who is otherwise considered by the college to be a member of its faculty.
Judicial Review Board – a group of persons designated by the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee to conduct formal hearings. The Judicial Review Board is composed of a procedural Chair (non-voting capacity), two faculty members appointed by the Vice President of Academic Affairs or designee, two enrolled students appointed by the Student Conduct Officer or designee, and two staff members appointed by the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee.
Preponderance of the Evidence – The standard of proof that is used in all student conduct proceedings to determine if a violation occurred. It means that the evidence, considered as a whole, indicates that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not, or that it is more likely than not that the alleged behavior occurred and violates the Code of Conduct.
President – The President of the college. The President is authorized to delegate any of his/her responsibilities as set forth by college policy.
Respondent – The student or student organization accused of violating the Code of Conduct or any college policy. Also referred to as the “charged student.”
Sanction – An educational outcome imposed as a result of a finding of responsibility for a violation of the Code of Conduct or college policy.
Staff- Any person employed by the college.
Student – Includes all persons taking courses at or through the college, whether on a full-time or part-time basis, and whether such courses are credit, non-credit, online, or any format. Persons who withdraw after allegedly violating the code, who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the college and college community, or who have been notified of their acceptance for admission, are considered “students” for the purpose of this policy.
Student Conduct Officer – A college administrator designated by the President or designee for implementing and enforcing the Code of Conduct. This person is the principal investigator and administrator for alleged violations of the Code of Conduct. The President or designee may reassign any and all of the Student Conduct Officer’s responsibilities pursuant to college policy.
Student Organization – A student club, society, group, or sports team approved, registered, recognized or going through the process to be recognized through student activities, an academic unit, or other administrative department. The term “student” shall also include student organizations.
Outcome – The finding of “responsible” or “not responsible” for each alleged violation, as well as any sanction(s) imposed.

17.4 Authority

The KCC Board of Trustees delegates authority for student conduct and discipline to the President. The President has delegated authority for administration of the Student Conduct Code to the Vice President of Student Affairs or other designee. Judicial Review Board members shall be authorized by the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee to conduct disciplinary proceedings. Appellate bodies shall be authorized by the college President or designee to conduct appeal reviews.

In addition to initiating discipline proceedings for violation of the Code of Conduct, the college may refer any alleged violations of federal, state or local laws to civil and criminal authorities for disposition. The college may proceed with student disciplinary proceedings regardless of whether the underlying conduct is subject to civil or criminal prosecution.

17.5 Student Rights and Responsibilities

As members of the academic community, students are encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in an independent search for truth. Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, at college facilities, and in the larger community.

Student Rights

All students are entitled to enjoy the rights protected by the United States and Illinois Constitution and laws, subject to legally recognized restraints that may be imposed because of the college’s role and function. Students should exercise these rights reasonably and avoid violating the rights of others. Following is a non-exhaustive list of students’ rights:
1. The right to pursue appropriate educational objectives from among the college’s curricula, programs, and services.
2. The right to an academic evaluation which is not arbitrary, prejudiced or capricious. All students are responsible for meeting the standards of academic performance established by each of their faculty members.
3. The right to a learning environment which is free from harassment and unlawful discrimination, that does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other protected status. This includes the right to a learning environment free of any and all harassment, including sexual harassment.
4. The right to freedom of speech and assembly consistent with a college environment and lawful regulations.
5. The rights granted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), including the right to inspect one’s educational records, challenge inaccurate or misleading records and maintenance of their educational records in a confidential manner consistent with FERPA and any other applicable rights.
6. The right to file a grievance or an academic or non-academic concern (i.e. complaints of discrimination and/or harassment).

B. Student Responsibilities

Students should exercise their freedom with responsibility. The responsibility to secure and to respect general conditions conducive to the freedom to learn is shared by all members of the college community. As a result of this responsibility, students are expected to:

Demonstrate courtesy;
Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising self-discipline;
Attend all classes, regularly and on time;
Prepare for each class and take appropriate materials and assignments to class;
Obey all classroom rules;
Respect the rights and privileges of fellow students, faculty, other college staff, volunteers, and visitors;
Respect the property of others, including college property and facilities; and
Cooperate with and assist the college staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.

17.6 Prohibited Student Conduct

The college may impose educational sanctions against a student who commits, attempts to commit, aids, abets, incites, solicits, encourages or assists another person to commit, any act(s) of misconduct. The below is not an exhaustive list of prohibited conduct, but merely represents examples of unacceptable behavior and conduct. These activities are prohibited on college premises, at college-sponsored activities, and in setting that affects the college community.

A. Non-Academic Misconduct

I. Providing false information.

Providing false, fraudulent, misleading or altered information, documents, evidence or materials to any law enforcement official, conduct officer, hearing or appellate body, or other employee.
Reproduction, alteration, forgery, or unauthorized use of another person’s or group’s college documents, keys, codes, electronic access devices, or property.
Misrepresentation of another person’s identity including misuse of another person’s identification.
Allowing another person to use one’s identification information.
Acting on or pretending to act on behalf of another person, group, or the college without expressed consent or authorization.
Any other acts of falsification, misrepresentation, fraud, or false testimony.

II. Obstruction of college Business and Activities.

Behavior of a boisterous, disorderly, obscene, lewd, abusive, or inciting character such that there is a clear and present danger of creating panic, alarming persons, violent retaliation, or sufficient public disruption so as to threaten the safety of others where no legitimate reason for alarm exists.

III. Inappropriate conduct/Disruption

Behavior or actions that demonstrates indecency, contempt for the generally accepted values, or disrespect for the normal standards of the college and its community.
The breach of any generally recognized and published code of ethics or standards of professional practice that governs the conduct of a particular profession, for which the student is taking a course or is pursuing as an educational goal or major.
Obscene behavior not of a sexual nature.

IV. Property Misuse: Theft, Trespass and Vandalism

Intentionally, knowingly, or negligently defacing, damaging or destroying college property or property owned by others, including but not limited to acts of vandalism.
Gaining access or attempting to gain entry to college facilities or property without authorization.
Possession, use, or duplication of college keys, access cards, or other material used to gain access to college facilities without authorization.
Theft or removal of property from another person, group or the college without expressed consent or permission.
Possession or sale of stolen property.
Use of college premises for any activity prohibited by federal, state, local laws, or institutional policy or procedures.

V. Failure to comply

Failure to comply with the direction or notice from a college official or employee who is acting in the legitimate performance of his or her duties.
Failure to properly identify oneself or provide identification when requested to do so by a college officer or employee who is acting in the legitimate performance of his or her duties when such a request is made.
Failure to comply with a notice, request, directive, or subpoena from a conduct officer, hearing body, appellate body or other investigatory or disciplinary body at the college.
Failure to comply with any disciplinary sanction(s), interim measures, mediation agreements, behavioral intervention programs, and safety remedies imposed under this Code of Conduct or other college policies related to student behavior or conduct.
Failure to comply with college rules and procedures for use of college facilities, space, and/or public assembly.
Failure to comply with any federal, state and local laws.

VI. Possession, use or distribution of alcohol.

Possession, use, sale, distribution, delivery, manufacture, or consumption of alcohol or intoxicating beverage, regardless of age, on college premises, or at any college-sponsored activity, unless such is pursuant to the requirements of an academic program or the student has received prior written approval from the President or designee.
Providing alcohol or intoxicating beverage to a minor as specified by the State of Illinois.
Public intoxication or being under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating beverages.
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or intoxicating beverage.
Any other violations of any federal or state laws, or college policies regarding alcohol.

VII. Illicit drugs and controlled substances.

The use, possession, manufacture, delivery, sale, or being observably under the influence of any legend drug, including anabolic steroids, androgens, or human growth hormones except, as prescribed for a student’s use by a licensed practitioner.
Use or possession of illegal drugs or controlled substances, in any form.
Use or possession of prescription drugs or medications belonging to another person.
Manufacture, transmission, distribution, delivery or sale, including intent, of an illegal drug, controlled substance, prescription drug or medication, or other substances that are prohibited by local, state and/or federal laws.
Use, possession, control, manufacture, transmission, or sale of illegal drug paraphernalia.
Intoxication, intoxicated behavior or being under the influence of illegal drug, controlled substance, prescription drug or medication or other substances that are prohibited by local, state and/or federal law.
Driving while under the influence of illegal drug, controlled substance, prescription drug or medication or other substances that are prohibited by local, state and/or federal laws.
Any other violations of any federal or state laws, or college policies regarding illegal drugs, controlled substances, prescription drugs or medications, or other substances that are prohibited by local, state and/or federal laws.
Anyone suspected, in the judgment of KCC faculty/administrators/police/security, to be under the influence of drugs, alcohol or other behavior-altering substances may be tested without notice according to Board-approved procedures. Failure to comply with the college procedure for testing will constitute a separate violation of the Code of Conduct.

VIII. Weapons.

Use or possession of any firearm, ammunition, destructive devices, or other weapons or dangerous articles or substances, including but not limited to non-lethal weapons such as pellet guns, BB guns, paintball markers, slingshots, crossbows, stun guns, tasers, metallic knuckles, archery equipment, or any dangerous chemical or biological agent, or any other weapon or explosive apparently capable of producing bodily harm is prohibited on college premises and at college-sponsored activities.
Note: Exceptions to the possession of firearm are as follows

(i) Commissioned law enforcement personnel or legally-authorized military personnel while in performance of their duties, including members of the KCC Police Department, are authorized to carry firearms in accordance with state law and their police department regulations.

(ii) Individuals possessing a valid license to carry a concealed firearm may store the weapon in a secure case or a locked container out of plain view in their vehicle or in the vehicle’s trunk.

(iii) Subject to board approval, where such use or possession is part of a course curriculum or training program.

(iv) Possession and/or use of disabling chemical sprays for self-defense.
Use or possession of unauthorized knives, swords, blades, hatchets, switchblades or other cutting or stabbing instrument, capable of producing bodily harm is prohibited on college premises and at college-sponsored activity.
Instruments used to simulate such weapons (i.e. “look a-likes”) in acts that endanger or tend to endanger any person shall be considered weapons.

IX. Abuse of computer technology.

Theft or other misuse of computer time or other electronic information resources of the college.
Allowing another person to use one’s college username and password for any purpose aligned with other violations described in the Code of Conduct.
Attempting to access or circumvent passwords or other security-related information of the college, students, or employees.
Knowingly or intentionally uploading or creating computer viruses using or directed at college electronic resources.
Attempting to alter, destroy, or disable college technology resources, including but not limited to, computers and related equipment, college data, the data of others, or other networks connected to the college’s system.
Using the internet, social media, or other electronic communications to threaten college students, employees, or volunteers.
Use of college resources in sending, posting, or possessing electronic messages or images that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, or illegal.
Unauthorized alteration or degradation of college computer equipment, software, network, data or system performance, or using college resources for that purpose.
Unauthorized copying, duplication, transfer or distribution of computer program, file, message, or other software or data.
Unauthorized use of college computer resources for commercial purposes or personal, financial, or other gain. This includes, but is not limited to, advertising a product or service on personal web pages, spam, unsolicited electronic communications, fundraising or advertising on behalf of unsanctioned non-college organizations, publicizing of unsanctioned non- college activities, the reselling of college resources to any non-college individuals or organizations, and the unauthorized use of the college’s name or logos.
Use of college resources in violation of applicable copyright, trademark, or other applicable intellectual property law.
Any other violation of policies, rules, or agreements signed by the student regarding the use of technology resources.
Adding to or otherwise altering the infrastructure of the college's electronic information resources without authorization.
Any violations of the college's electronic or computer use policies.

X. Motorized vehicle noncompliance.

Failure to comply with parking and transportation rules and regulations.
Failure to pay fines or citations issued by KCC Police or other authorized official related to parking and transportation rules and regulations.

XI. Gambling.

Engaging in or offering games of chance for money or other gain (e.g. raffles) where a person or group has paid, including donations, with a promise or communication to win or receive an item of value for such purchase or donation without prior approval by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee.
Hosting, coordinating, advertising, or participating in casino nights or sporting event bracket pools without prior written approval from the college.
Other activities that violate college policy or federal, state, or local laws regarding gambling.

XII. Posting/Promotions/Solicitation.

Solicitation (e.g. passing or handing out flyers, promotional material, surveys, selling products, and any method of communication to induce support) on college premises without prior written consent of the Office of Student Affairs, or where the activity interferes, impedes or disrupts the normal operations and functions of the college.
Posting of flyers, posters, banners, cards, or any promotional or informational material, including but not limited to the exterior and interior of college facilities, buildings, trees, walls, sidewalks, vehicles, windows, stairwells, stairs, reserved display cases, vending machines, doors, classrooms, departments and unauthorized bulletin boards, railings, elevators, bathrooms, art/sculptures, or that otherwise interferes with, impedes or disrupts the normal operations and functions of the college without permission of the Office of Student Affairs.
Use of chalk or powder-like substance on lawn areas, or the exterior or interior of any college facility or building.
Use of “A” signs or free standing signs that interferes with or disrupt the normal operations and functions of the college, block an entrance/exit, or impede or blocks the normal movement of pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
Engaging in any conduct which constitutes a violation of college policies and procedures regarding solicitation, advertising and speech activities.

XIII. Tobacco use.

Use, distribution, or sale of tobacco, including any smoking device, or carrying of any lighted smoking instrument on college premises without exception. “Tobacco” includes any lit or unlit cigarette, electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) cigar, pipe, and any other smoking product; and smokeless tobaccos, also known as dip, chew, or snuff in any form.

XIV. Unauthorized use or possession of keys.

The unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any college premises, or possessing unauthorized keys at college-sponsored or supervised functions.

XV. Fire and safety violations.

Non-accidental conduct that interferes with or otherwise compromises any college policy, equipment, or procedure relating to the safety and security of the college community, is prohibited.
Setting or causing of unauthorized fires.
Inappropriate activation or triggering of any emergency warning equipment or system.
False reporting of any emergency.

XVI. Failure to meet debts and obligations.

Not meeting all financial obligations to the college. Note: the registered student is responsible for his/her own financial obligations.

XVII. Hazing.

Any method of initiation into a student organization or living group, or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to such an organization or living group that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger or physical harm, or serious mental or emotional harm, to any student or other person, including but not limited to:
i. Physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity.

ii. Any activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.

iii. Any activity involving over consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.

iv. Any other activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism; subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame, or humiliation; or adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student that discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational institution.

Any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of federal, state, or local laws, rules or regulations.

XVIII. Endangerment.

Physical violence or harm toward another person or group.
Threatening another person, regardless if directly, indirectly or via third-party, where the threat would cause a reasonable person to be concerned or fearful for their safety or the safety of others.
Interference with the ability of another person or group to move about in a lawful manner and/or manner free of harm.
Willful and malicious behavior or actions that interrupt the speaker of any lawful assembly or impair the lawful right of others to participate effectively in such assembly or meeting when there is reason to believe that such conduct will cause or provoke a disturbance.
Willful and malicious behavior or actions that obstruct or cause the obstruction of any doorway, hall, or any other passageway in a college building to such an extent that the employees, officers, and other persons, including visitors, having business with the college are denied entrance into, exit from, or free passage in such building, office, classroom, or the like.
Any other conduct that endangers the health, safety or well-being of another person or group.

XIX. Pets and Animals.

Bringing any animal into any college building or bringing any unleashed animal on college premises, including parking lots and sports fields, except for a service animal as defined under federal law. “Service animal" means any dog or “miniature horse” that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.

XX. Recreation Mobility.

Operation or use of skateboards, skates, bicycles, or motorized vehicles inside of any college buildings.
Operation or use of motorized vehicles on walkways, sidewalks, lawns, or grass without authorization.

XXI. Retaliation.

Retaliation against any person or group as a result of reporting or filing a complaint, providing information, reporting an incident, exercising one’s rights or responsibilities, or otherwise being involved in the process of responding to, investigating, or addressing allegations or violations of federal, state, or local law, or college policies.
Retaliation against a hearing body, appellate body or other disciplinary or investigatory body.

XXII. Shared Responsibility, Guests and Children.

Students and organizations may be held responsible for the conduct of their guests while on college premises, at college-sponsored activities, and at functions sponsored by any registered student organization.
Children shall not be allowed in classrooms while class is in session.
Children shall not be allowed in or at high-risk areas, including but not limited to, laboratories, clinical sites, gaming/recreational facilities, or construction sites.
Children shall not be left unattended while the parent or guardian is attending class or conducting any business on college premises.

XXIII. Other Violations.

Violation of any college policy or written rules governing student behavior, including but not limited to, academic/administrative units, athletic teams, and student organizations.
Violation of any federal, state, or local law, or rule.

B. Academic Misconduct

I. Cheating.

Any attempt to give or obtain unauthorized assistance/materials relating to the completion of an academic assignment and/or test, including collaboration with another individual relating to the completion of an academic assignment without permission from the assignment administrator.
Copying from or reviewing another student’s examination, paper, laboratory report, presentation, computer program, or other assignment prior to or during the examination.
Submitting the same paper, report, or other assignment for more than one course without the expressed permission of the faculty member. If a student believes that he/she can complete an assignment that meets the requirements of two or more faculty members, he/she should obtain prior approval from all faculty involved.
Using, buying, selling, stealing, or soliciting, in whole or in part, the contents of a paper, test, or any other assignment, whether or not it has been administered.
The unauthorized transporting or removal, in whole or in part, of the contents of a test, whether it has been administered or not.
Permitting another student to substitute for oneself to take a test or allowing another student to copy or use one’s answers during an examination or in the completion of an assignment.
Bribing another person to obtain a test or information about a test, whether it has been administered or not.
Taking, completing, or attempting to take an examination or complete an assignment for another student.

II. Plagiarism.

Taking, reproducing, and/or using as one’s own, without proper attribution, the ideas, writings, paraphrases, data, reports, graphic designs, or computer codes of published or unpublished work of another person in completing an academic assignment. Prohibited conduct may also include the unauthorized submission for credit of academic work that has been submitted for credit in another course.

III. Fabrication.

Falsifying data, information, or citations in completing an academic assignment or obligation.
Providing false or deceptive information to a faculty member concerning the completion of an assignment.
Listing another student on a group assignment when the student did not contribute in any manner toward completion of the assignment.
Unauthorized altering of grades on an assignment, examination, laboratory report, quiz, or other academic work and submitting such to a faculty member or college employee.

IV. Intellectual Property Dishonesty.

Altering, removing, or defacing college library or educational materials.
Selling, electronically posting, publishing, or distributing course lecture notes, handouts, recordings, or other materials or information of any course without the expressed permission of the faculty member.
Removing or damaging the academic property of a faculty member or another student, including projects, books, papers, notes, laboratory assignments, clinical forms, or electronic hardware or software.
Obtaining or using the password of a faculty member or another student without authorization of the password owner to access course hardware or software.
Violating the ethical standards of practices in professional programs (i.e., health sciences, and the like, as outlined in the handbook and/or curricula of the respective program).
(i) Clinical site violations: Unprofessional behaviors or unsafe practices.

V. Facilitation of Academic Dishonesty

Any other acts of dishonesty including aiding, abetting, or attempting to commit any academic misconduct violation or permitting another student to violate any provision of this code.

17.7 Interpretation of Policy and Procedures

A. Any question of interpretation regarding the Code of Conduct and the Disciplinary Process shall be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs for final determination.

17.8 Review of Policy and Procedures

A. The Code of Conduct and its procedures shall be reviewed biennially by a committee appointed by the Vice President for Student Affairs.

B. At the discretion of the Board of Trustees, President or designee, a review of the Code of Conduct and its procedures may be requested prior to the two year term date.

C. The committee shall consist of faculty, staff and student representatives that reflect the diverse and cultural dynamics of the college.

D. The biennial review shall occur during each odd year and recommendations must be made to the Vice President for Student Affairs no later than Dec. 31 of the review year.

The Board of Trustees shall have final approval and adoption of the code and/or any revisions thereof.

18.0 Discipline Procedures

Through the student judicial process, KCC may impose sanctions and/or disciplinary action for a student found guilty of violating the College’s Code of Conduct. Every effort will be taken to advise and guide the student to more appropriate behavior. The vice president for student affairs and the KCC Police Department personnel will work together to enforce the College’s Code of Conduct. The student conduct officer is designated by the vice president for student affairs. The following procedures may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, following, or in the absence of, any civil or criminal action proceeding.

Alleged acts of misconduct that are not sex- or gender-based discrimination or harassment will be investigated pursuant to these procedures. Allegations of sex-based discrimination, harassment or misconduct will be processed according to the college’s Harassment, Discrimination and Sexual Misconduct Policy Complaint Procedures, which can be found on KCC's web page.

A. Respondent’s Rights

1. A student charged with a violation of the Code of Conduct (“Respondent”) has the right to:
a) Notice of the alleged violation(s) and a description of the allegations upon which the charge is based, including the provision(s) of the Code of Conduct the Respondent is charged with violating and the range of possible sanctions for the offense(s).
b) A designated opportunity to review all information in their conduct file prior to a hearing. The student conduct officer reserves the right to modify any report or documentation if it is deemed necessary to protect identifiable information of any person filing the report, witness, or alleged victim.
c) An opportunity to present evidence and information on his/her behalf at an information session with the student conduct officer.
d) Where a formal hearing is held, examine witnesses provided testimony and supporting documents during the hearing, except where the student has waived their right or opted for a summary resolution. If called witnesses do not appear, their written and signed statements, if submitted, will be considered by the Hearing Body.
e) Accompaniment to any meeting or hearing held throughout the disciplinary process by a personal adviser of the student’s choice. The student is responsible for obtaining his/her own adviser. The adviser may not serve as a witness, represent the student before the Hearing Body, or speak on the student’s behalf at any meeting or hearing held throughout the disciplinary process.
f) Notification of the disciplinary determination, in writing, within ten (10) business days after the determination is made.
g) Request an appeal of the disciplinary determination, in writing, within five (5) business days of the student’s receipt of the written determination (See Appeals section of this Code).
h) Notification of any appeal determination, in writing, within ten (10) business days after the appeal determination is made.

B. Victim’s Rights

1. Complainants/Victims have the right to:
a. Accompaniment by an adviser of the student’s choice when presenting information to the Hearing Body or when attending any other meeting held throughout the disciplinary process. The student is responsible for obtaining his/her own adviser. The adviser may not serve as a witness, represent the student before the Hearing Body, or speak on the student’s behalf at any meeting or hearing held throughout the disciplinary process.
b. Support services, such as counseling services, upon request, which will be coordinated through the student conduct officer or Counseling Office.
c. An opportunity to present evidence and information on his/her behalf, including presenting witnesses and/or signed written statements.
d. Submit a victim impact statement to the Hearing Body, where applicable. This information will be used only in the sanctioning phase of deliberations, if the Respondent is found responsible for the charge(s).
e. Have unrelated past behavior excluded from the hearing. The student conduct officer or chair of the Judicial Review Board will decide if such information is unrelated.
f. Submit questions to the Hearing Body. The Hearing Body will consider posing those questions to the charged student.
g. Testify in limited privacy, as long as the process does not compromise the charged student’s right to cross-examination. Determination on this matter will be made by student conduct officer or chair of the Hearing Body.
h. Be present throughout the entire hearing, or portions thereof. Determination on this matter will be made by the student conduct officer or chair of the Judicial Review Board. Deliberations are closed to all parties except the Judicial Review Board.
i. Notification of the disciplinary determination and, where applicable, any appeal determination, at the same time the Respondent receives such notification.

C. Conflicts of Interest

The student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board members shall not participate in any case in which they are a complainant or witness, or in which they have direct or personal interest, prejudice, or bias, or in which they have acted previously in an advisory capacity.

a) Individuals who play a role in receiving, investigation, and otherwise processing complaints shall not have any conflict of interest in the process. In the event that such a conflict arises in the process, the person shall disclose such interest to the parties. Parties to the complaint who believe a college official is involved in the process has a conflict of interest may report such concerns to the student conduct officer. The student conduct officer will determine whether a conflict of interest exists and take appropriate action.
b) Anyone who serves as an advocate, or someone who is subject to the authority, direction, or discretion of such a person, may not serve as a conduct officer for a full adjudicative hearing.
c) A hearing officer with a conflict of interest shall recuse him/herself from further involvement in the case. In the event such a conflict arises after the selection process or during proceedings, the member shall immediately disclose the conflict to the parties
d) A Judicial Review Board member’s eligibility to participate in a case may be challenged by parties to the case or by other Judicial Review Board members at any time by submitting a motion to disqualify to the conduct review officer. When such a challenge is made, the Judicial Review Board, excluding the person alleged to have a conflict of interest, shall make a decision on the challenge.
e) In cases where the challenge is against the chair or student conduct officer, the vice president for student affairs shall make a decision on the challenge.
f) If a member is disqualified or disqualifies him/her self from a case, the student conduct officer or chair will appoint a replacement.

D. Administrative Authorities

a) Student conduct officer
I. The student conduct officer facilitates and oversees the student conduct process for alleged violations of college policies.
II. When a formal hearing is held, the student conduct officer presents the charges, and the evidence supporting the administration’s recommended finding(s) and sanction(s), to the Judicial Review Board.

b) Judicial Review Board
I. The Judicial Review Board is designated by the vice president for student affairs or designee to conduct formal hearings. The Judicial Review Board is composed of a procedural chair (non-voting capacity), two faculty members appointed by the vice president for academic affairs or designee, two enrolled students appointed by the student conduct officer, and two staff members appointed by the vice president for student affairs or designee.
II. In times of limited student availability, or when a conflict of interest is identified, a hearing may proceed with three (3) or four (4) voting members.
C. Types of Hearings

There are three (3) distinct types of hearings provided by the Code of Conduct.
i. Informal Hearings (Summary Resolutions)
b. Held when cases involve few or no disputed questions of fact and possible sanctions do not include separation from the college.
c. For students choosing to accept responsibility for the alleged charge as presented.
d. Not audio recorded. Written decisions will serve as the official records of informal hearings.
e. Students waive their right to have an adviser, cross-examine witnesses, and to have five (5) business days before a hearing is held.
f. The only appeal can be on the basis that the sanction(s) is/are disproportionate to the violation(s).
g. If found responsible, sanctions may be imposed immediately.
h. The student conduct officer may interview other parties or review documentation relevant to the incident in determining sanctions.

I. Mediated Forums

a. An informal process to address concerning behaviors through mediation, conflict resolution and/or behavioral interventions.
b. At any point prior to a final disciplinary determination being made, a Respondent may request to participate in a mediated forum.
c. Mediated forums are not audio recorded. Written and signed agreements of applicable parties may serve as the official record of mediated forums.
d. May include the use of mediation agreements and/or behavioral intervention plans aimed at:
i. Addressing behaviors which may not violate this Code, but cause serious concern for the imminent health, safety or welfare of oneself, others or the college community;
ii. Remedying prohibited behaviors and resolving Code violations through an informal and mutually agreed upon process by the Respondent and the college.
e. The student conduct officer may interview other parties or review documentation relevant to the incident in determining agreement requirements and behavioral intervention plans.
f. If an agreement is reached at the conclusion of a mediated forum, a written agreement and/or behavioral intervention plan will serve as the final outcome of the disciplinary investigation process. By signing the written agreement and/or behavioral intervention plan, the Respondent waives his/her right to a formal hearing and any subsequent appeal.
g. If no agreement is reached at the conclusion of a mediated forum, the college will proceed according to the standard disciplinary resolution procedure.

3. Formal Hearings (Administrative Hearings and Board Hearings)

a. Held when cases involve disputed questions of fact or serious alleged violations of the Code.
b. May require the Judicial Review Board to call appropriate witnesses or obtain witness statements, reports or other information in support of the charges.
c. Allow the presence of an adviser of the respondent’s choosing and expense.
d. Formal hearings will be audio recorded and the recording will serve as the official record of the proceedings.
e. A formal disciplinary outcome letter will be sent to the respondent and any other appropriate individuals.

D. Types of Resolution

a) There are two (2) types of resolution mechanisms provided by the Code of Conduct.
I. Summary Resolutions
1. Cases where the possible sanctions do not include suspension, dismissal or expulsion from the college will be resolved by summary resolution.
2. Where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion from the college, a student may choose to accept responsibility for the alleged charge as presented and proceed with a summary resolution in lieu of a formal hearing. Students who elect a summary resolution automatically waive their right to a formal hearing, including the right to cross-examine witnesses.
3. Meetings held in connection with a summary resolution are not audio recorded. Written decisions will serve as the official records of summary resolutions.
4. The student conduct officer may interview other parties or review documentation relevant to the incident in determining whether the Respondent has violated the Code of Conduct and in determining appropriate sanctions.
5. Upon conclusion of the investigation, the student conduct officer will issue a written decision, which will include his/her findings and any sanctions imposed.

II. Formal Hearings
1. Except in cases where the Respondent elects to proceed with a summary resolution in lieu of a formal hearing, formal hearings are held in cases where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion from the college.
2. Formal hearings will be audio recorded and the recording will serve as the official record of the proceedings.
3. After the hearing has been held and a determination has been made, the Judicial Review Board will issue a written decision, which will include the Judicial Review Board’s findings and any sanctions imposed.

E. Selection of Hearing Types and Bodies

a) Generally, students may choose which type of hearing and hearing body they would like to conduct their disciplinary case pursuant to the options available in this Code, and with the following exceptions:
I. Formal hearings are required for alleged violations involving acts or attempted acts of sexual violence.
II. When it is determined a case requires a formal proceeding, the student conduct officer reserves the right to choose a formal hearing.
III. Under certain circumstances, where the alleged behavior and/or incident could be solved through an informal process or mediated forum rather than formal disciplinary proceedings, the student conduct officer, in consultation and concurrence with all parties involved, may redirect the matter through an informal process or mediated forum.
IV. When two (2) or more individual cases stem from the same incident, those cases should typically be heard by the same hearing body. In such cases, the student conduct officer may either pre-select the hearing type and hearing body or consult with the students involved before making the decision.
V. The student conduct officer reserves the right to select the appropriate hearing type and body for other administrative or case-related reasons
VI. During time periods in which any of the hearing bodies are not officially constituted, the student conduct officer may select an appropriate alternative as the hearing body.

F. Burden of Proof
a) The legal standard used in all disciplinary cases is “preponderance of evidence,” meaning that the evidence, considered as a whole, indicates that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not, or that it is more likely than not that the alleged behavior occurred and violates the Code of Conduct.
b) The charged student will not be presumed responsible for an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct; rather, the student’s responsibility must be established by a preponderance of the evidence.
c) The burden of proof in a disciplinary hearings rests with the college administration.

G. Student Conduct Processes and Procedures

a) Initiating Charges
I. Any person may report any violation of the Code of Conduct, federal, state or local law. A report may be initiated in the following ways:
1. Filing a Student Behavior Incident Report form with the student conduct officer (this can be done online, through email or in person);
2. Filing a report with the KCC Police Department or requesting that a report from a law enforcement agency be sent to the campus police or Student Conduct Office;
3. Providing a signed statement to the student conduct officer; or
4. A report from an outside law enforcement agency is sent directly to the college.
II. The student conduct officer shall be responsible for determining whether there are sufficient grounds to warrant disciplinary charges. The student conduct officer reserves the right to request additional documentation, if it is deemed necessary in determining whether formal charges are warranted on behalf of the college.
III. If the student conduct officer determines that the documentation is insufficient or there are insufficient grounds to file charges on behalf of the college, no charges will be filed and the individual initiating the report will be notified, in writing. Under FERPA, the student conduct officer may be prohibited from disclosing information about the reason for the decision not to file formal charges.

b) Timely Reporting
I. Reports must be filed with the student conduct officer within ninety (90) calendar days of the incident, or knowledge of the incident. However, the college reserves the right to exercise professional discretion to extend this timely reporting in cases of behaviors which pose a threat to the safety, welfare or well-being of another person or the college community, or when the delay is related to victimization issues.
II. Complaint forms and appeal notices may be filed by electronic communication, including email and fax, or certified or trackable mail.
III. If a complaint form or appeal notice is not timely filed, the complaint may be dismissed, on written notice to the person who filed the complaint or appeal notice, at any point during the complaint process.

c) Notice of Charges
I. Where the student conduct officer determines that formal charges against a student are warranted, a notice of charge(s) shall be sent to the Respondent within ten (10) business days from when the determination to file formal charges is made. Extended time may be required if further investigation or additional documentation is required to substantiate initiating student conduct charges.
II. The notice given to any student charged with an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct will include:
1. Identification of the specific Code of Conduct or college Policy provisions that the Respondent is alleged to have violated;
2. A brief description of the alleged offense(s) upon which the charges are based;
3. An invitation to attend an information session, during which the charged student will be afforded an explanation of the charges and an opportunity to respond to the charges. In cases where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion, the student will be given information about his/her right to a formal hearing, along with information concerning hearing procedures and resources available to the student in preparation for his/her disciplinary hearing. If the student elects to waive his/her right to a formal hearing and instead chooses a summary resolution, the student should notify the student conduct officer of such election during the information session.

d) Information Session
I. If a student fails to respond to a request to schedule an information session within five (5) business days of the date on the notice of charge letter, or if the student fails to attend a scheduled information session, the student waives his/her right to an information session, and the student conduct officer will proceed according to the standard disciplinary resolution procedure. In cases where the possible sanctions do not include suspension, dismissal or expulsion, the student conduct officer will make a disciplinary determination based on the information that is available and will issue his/her written decision, including his/her findings and any sanctions imposed, within ten (10) business days of when the determination is made. In cases where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion, the student conduct officer will proceed by scheduling a hearing date and issuing written notice of the hearing to the charged student.
II. The student conduct officer may extend the time for scheduling an information session or reschedule a hearing where the charged student demonstrates that an extenuating circumstance prevented him or her from responding to the notice of charge letter by the response deadline.
III. During the information session, the student will be provided the following:
1. Clear and complete description of the Code of Conduct charges and description of the allegations upon which the charges are based.
2. Where applicable, information related to the student’s rights and responsibilities and preparation for a hearing.
3. In cases where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion, the right to accept responsibility for the alleged charge(s) as presented and proceed with a summary resolution in lieu of a formal hearing. If the student accepts the charges as presented, takes responsibility for the violation, and elects to proceed with a summary resolution, the student conduct officer will issue a written decision, which will include his or her findings and any sanctions imposed, within ten (10) business days from the date the decision is made.
4. In cases where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion, if the charged student does not elect to proceed with a summary resolution, a formal hearing shall be conducted on the matter.

e) Hearing Notification
I. In cases where the possible sanctions include suspension, dismissal or expulsion, charged students who do not elect to accept responsibility and proceed with a summary resolution shall be notified, in writing, at least five (5) business days prior to a formal hearing, of the date and time of the hearing. Notice of the hearing shall include:
1. The date, time and location for the hearing; and
2. The name(s) of the Judicial Review Board members.
II. If the charged student fails to appear at the scheduled hearing and fails to provide adequate written notice prior to the scheduled hearing, the hearing will be held in the student’s absence.
1. No student may be found responsible for a violation of the Student Conduct Code solely because he/she failed to appear before a Judicial Review Board.
2. The decision of the Judicial Review Board will be based on the documentation and testimony presented at the hearing.

f) Scope of Inquiry
I. A student’s academic and previous disciplinary record (if applicable) cannot be considered when determining whether the charged student has violated the Code of Conduct.
II. However, if a student is found responsible for a violation of the Code, any academic and previous disciplinary record may be taken into account when determining the appropriate disciplinary action(s) or educational sanction(s).

g) Disciplinary Consolidations
I. Where practicable, in cases where more than one student is charged with an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct and the students’ conduct arose out of the same incident(s), each case will be heard by the same Judicial Review Board. Additionally, the charged students may elect to forego individual hearings in favor of a single consolidated hearing.
II. The student conduct officer shall make the final decision on all consolidation requests.

h) Role of the Judicial Review Board Chair
I. The role of the Judicial Review Board Chair when presiding over a formal hearing will be to:
1. Ensure a fair and impartial hearing and that all of the Respondent’s and victim’s rights are protected pursuant to the Code of Conduct.
2. If an adviser is present, review the adviser’s role and limitations during the hearing as outlined in the Student’s Rights or Victim’s Rights section of this Code.
3. Make all administrative decisions on matters relating to the conduct of the hearing, including matters regarding admission of relevant evidence, testimony and questions.
4. Ensure that the Respondent has the right to present questions to all witnesses in an orderly and respectful fashion. The Judicial Review Board chair reserves the right to determine the method for delivery of questions to the witness by the Respondent.
5. Maintain an orderly hearing and permit no person to be subjected to abusive treatment, intimidation or harassment. The Judicial Review Board chair, at his/her discretion, may remove anyone who refuses to be orderly and/or who is unable to conduct him/herself in a manner conducive to a learning environment.
6. Administer an appropriate oath of truthful testimony to the charged student and all witnesses.

i) Hearing Procedures
I. All hearings are private and closed to the public.
1. The charged student (or Respondent) and his/her adviser may be present for the entirety of the hearing.
2. Witnesses may be present in the hearing during their time of testimony before the Judicial Review Board.
II. Formal hearings are taped via audio recording, and the audio tape will act as the official record of the hearing.
III. The following procedures are applicable to formal hearings:
1. Administration of an appropriate oath of honesty and truthful testimony to the Respondent and prior to any witnesses’ testimony before the Judicial Review Board.
2. Opening statement and presentation of formal charges by student conduct officer.
3. Opening statement by the Respondent.
4. Presentation of administration’s case by student conduct officer.
5. Presentation of Respondent’s case by Respondent.
6. Closing statement by the student conduct officer.
7. Closing statement by the Respondent.
8. Hearing adjourned by the Judicial Review Board chair.
9. All parties, except the Judicial Review Board, are dismissed for deliberation and decision making (see Deliberations section of this Code).
IV. The Judicial Review Board chair will exercise control over the hearing to avoid needless consumption of time and to prevent the harassment or intimidation of witnesses.
1. The Judicial Review Board chair has the right to make the appropriate revisions to the hearing procedure so long as the student’s rights are upheld and maintained.
2. Any person, including an adviser, who disrupts a hearing or who fails to adhere to the guidelines set by the Judicial Review Board chair, may be excluded from the proceedings.

j) Deliberations
I. Deliberations are closed, except for members of the Judicial Review Board, and are not audio taped.
II. Responsibility is determined by a majority vote of the Judicial Review Board members, except in cases involving expulsion.
1. Cases involving expulsion must be unanimous.
III. The vote and final decision of the Judicial Review Board, including the determination of responsibility and sanctions, if appropriate, are taped and become the official record of the hearing.

k) Notification of Outcome
I. Within ten (10) business days after the conclusion of deliberations, the Judicial Review Board Chair shall provide the Respondent with written notification of the Judicial Review Board’s decision, which will include:
1. A summary of the evidence/findings of fact used to support its determination;
2. Findings as to whether the Respondent is found responsible or not responsible for each alleged violation listed in the notice of charge(s) letter;
3. If applicable, the appropriate sanction(s); and
4. The procedure for requesting an appeal.
II. The student’s enrollment status shall remain unchanged pending the college’s final decision in the matter except in cases where the student conduct officer determines that the safety, health, or general welfare of the student, any individual, or any part of the college may be jeopardized.
III. The Judicial Review Board shall provide written notification of the disciplinary determination to the victim(s), as defined in this Code, at the same time such notification is provided to the Respondent.
IV. In cases of suspension or expulsion, the appropriate college officials will be notified in accordance with federal and state law.

H. Educational Sanctions/Interventions

a) One or more of the following educational sanctions/interventions may be imposed when a student is found responsible for violation(s) of the Code of Conduct. Potential educational sanctions/interventions include, without limitation, any of the following:
I. Warning
1. Verbal warning to the student that the student has violated the Code of Conduct, and that further violation of the code will result in further disciplinary action.
2. Written reprimand and formal notification that the student’s conduct is unacceptable and that, if other violations of the Code occur, the college may take more severe disciplinary action.
II. Educational Assignment
1. An educational assignment is a developmental task for the purpose of making a positive contribution to the student’s well-being and/or the college community. Assignments may include, but are not limited to:
a. Apology letters;
b. Attendance at educational workshops/seminars;
c. Tutoring or support from learning centers (i.e., testing, writing, reading or math labs);
d. Research projects;
e. Reflection papers and essays;
f. Meetings and/or interviews with college officials or other appropriate individuals or groups; and/or
g. Planning and implementing educational programs.
III. Service Hours
1. Completion of a specified number of hours of service to the college or local community.
IV. Restitution
1. Restitution for loss or damages may be a part of any sanction, and may include:
a. Monetary compensation; and/or
b. Property replacement or services up to the amount of the damage, loss or injury incurred.
2. Restitution may also be in the form of service hours provided to the person, group or organization where the damage, loss or injury occurred.
V. Campus Access Restriction
1. Campus access restrictions may include:
a. Relocation of a student to another class, classroom, building, facility or campus; or
b. Termination of a student’s privilege to enter into and be in the near vicinity of one or more campus areas, facilities or buildings; or restriction from entering onto campus grounds in its entirety during a specified period of time. A student will lose his/her privilege to enter onto campus grounds entirely when serving a suspension or expulsion from the college.
VI. Academic Dishonesty Sanctions
1. For academic dishonesty violations, in addition to other approved sanctions, the college may impose penalties as outlined in the Academic Dishonesty Penalties section of this Code.
2. Academic dishonesty sanctions shall be given in consultation with the appropriate faculty member, when appropriate.
VII. Admission/Enrollment Revocation
1. If it is determined that a student has made false, fraudulent, or incomplete statements in his/her application, residence affidavit or accompanying documents or statements in connection with, or supplemental to, the student’s application for admission to or graduation from the college, the college may:
a. Deny or revoke admission or further registration at the college;
b. Invalidate academic credit work done by a student; and/or
c. Invalidate or revoke the degree based upon such credit.
VIII. Removal from Class
1. Behavior which has been disruptive to a class to the extent that the continued presence of the student in that class will impair, interrupt or interfere with the instructor’s ability to deliver instruction or other students’ ability to receive instruction will result in a withdrawal from that class without a refund. Exceptions to “no refunds” may be granted by the college president or designee(s).
IX. No Contact Order
1. An administrative directive to refrain from any intentional contact, direct or indirect, with one or more designated persons or group(s) through any means, including personal contact, email, telephone, any form of electronic communication, or through third parties.
X. Behavioral Assessment
1. Referral for personal, mental or academic assessment or evaluation through college counseling or support services. Referral to a certified/licensed health agency or professional may be required in cases where it is deemed the intervention may positively affect the student’s learning, behavioral modification, and/or academic success.
a. In cases of probation or deferred suspension, behavioral assessment conditions that permit the student’s satisfactory completion of the probationary status and/or to continue enrollment at the college, will be specifically outlined in writing.
b. In cases of suspension or expulsion, behavioral assessment conditions that permit the student’s satisfactory reenrollment, return or readmission to the college will be specifically outlined in writing.
XI. Loss of College Privileges or Associations
1. Certain privileges or associations within the college are withdrawn for a specified period of time, not to exceed two (2) academic years.
2. This includes, but is not limited to: removal from athletic events; denial of the privilege of participating in athletic teams, recreational/sports activities, student organizations; holding office in an organization; or revocation of social or fundraising privileges for student organizations.
XII. Disciplinary Probation
1. A specified period of time during which a student has an opportunity to demonstrate his/her ability to be a responsible member of the college community.
a. Formal notification that the student’s conduct is unacceptable, and if further violation(s) of the Code follows, the college may take more severe disciplinary action.
2. Disciplinary Probation may impact a student's eligibility to participate in college sponsored activities, programs or services, or to serve in leadership positions.
3. Any further violation(s) of the Code of Conduct may place the student’s status with the college in jeopardy, and may result in a higher level sanction.
XIII. Deferred Suspension
1. A sanction of suspension may be deferred pending successful completion of all educational assignments or other outlined sanctions specified as a condition of the deferred sanction.
2. All sanctions must be completed by the specified deadline date to satisfy the conditions of the deferred sanction.
3. If a student fails to complete all the sanctions as set forth for a deferred sanction, suspension from the college will automatically be enacted without further review.
4. For students found responsible for misconduct that results in a deferred sanction, the conferring of an academic degree will be deferred for the duration of the sanction.
XIV. Suspension (Individual Student)
1. Separation of the student from the college, including removal from enrollment, revocation of other privileges or activities, and denial entry to all college premises for a period of time not to exceed two (2) years.
2. Conditions that will permit the student’s readmission, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the college during the period of suspension must be directed to the student conduct officer.
XV. Suspension (Student Organization)
1. Separation of the student organization from the college, including revocation of other privileges or activities, and denial or revocation of registration/recognized status as a student organization for a period of time not to exceed two (2) years.
2. Conditions that will permit the student organization’s reinstatement, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the college regarding the organization’s status during the period of suspension must be directed to the student conduct officer.
XVI. Dismissal (Individual Student)
1. Separation of the student from the college, including removal from enrollment, revocation of other privileges or activities, and denial of entry to all college premises for a period of two (2) years to five (5) years.
2. Conditions that will permit the student’s readmission, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the college during the period of dismissal must be directed to the student conduct officer.
3. Dismissed students will have the notation of “Disciplinary Dismissal” printed on their college transcript during the dismissal period.
XVII. Dismissal (Student Organization)
1. Separation of the student organization from the college, including, revocation of other privileges or activities, and denial or revocation of registration/recognized status as a student organization for a period of two (2) years to five (5) years.
2. Conditions that will permit the student organization’s reinstatement, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the college regarding the organization’s status during the period of suspension must be directed to the student conduct officer.
XVIII. Expulsion (Individual Student)
1. Complete termination of a student’s status and academic enrollment at the college. Any communications with the college during the period of expulsion must be directed to the vice president for student affairs or designee.
2. Expelled students will have the notation of “Disciplinary Expulsion” on their college transcript.

I. Academic Dishonesty Penalties

a) For academic dishonesty cases, the following shall apply:
I. If the instructor determines that an act of academic dishonesty has occurred, the instructor may:
1. Issue a verbal warning;
2. Require the student to resubmit the work/assignment;
3. Require the student re-take a quiz or examination;
4. Assign a lower grade on the assignment or examination;
5. Issue a grade of zero (0) on the assignment, lab work, internship or examination; and/or
6. Issue a failing grade for the course, lab or internship.
II. Instructors are encouraged to report all academic misconduct incidents to the Student Conduct Office.
1. A record of reports forwarded to the Student Conduct Office will be maintained in a confidential file.
2. Except as provided below in Item 3, when a report of academic dishonesty is submitted to the Student Conduct Office, and it is the student’s first offense, the student conduct officer shall send a letter to the student confirming informal action and outlining the consequences of subsequent academic dishonesty offenses. A copy of the letter shall be provided to the instructor and appropriate academic dean.
a. Students have the right to appeal the decision of an instructor regarding grading in accordance with the Instructional or Grade Complaint Process established by the college.
3. Instructors have the right to request formal action be taken by the college for any acts of academic misconduct.
4. In cases where a student has multiple incidents of academic misconduct recorded, the student conduct officer reserves the right to proceed with formal charges of a violation of this Code against the student.

J. Appeals

a) Appeal Information
I. Students determined to have violated the Code of Conduct may request an appeal of the disciplinary outcome and/or of the imposed disciplinary sanction(s). A written appeal request must be submitted within five (5) business days of the receipt of the written decision of the student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board to the appropriate appellate body listed in Appellate Forums section of this Code. If the Respondent does not submit a request for appeal of the student conduct officer’s or Judicial Review Board’s decision within that time frame, the decision of the student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board will become final.
1. All appeals must be requested, in writing, through the Office of the vice president for student affairs or designee.
2. If a student files an appeal request, the sanctions are not enacted until a final decision is made by the appellate body, except in cases of an interim suspension, campus access restriction or if it is determined by the vice president for student affairs or designee that the student poses a threat to the safety or welfare of the college community.

b) Burden of Proof
I. The burden of proof at the appellate level rests with the student requesting the review to clearly demonstrate that an error has occurred during the disciplinary process. An appeal review is not a re-hearing of the disciplinary case, but rather a review of the specified error as outlined in the Grounds for Appeal section of this Code.

c) Appellate Forums
I. Decisions of an instructor related to academic misconduct offenses occurring as part of an academic course that do not result in formal disciplinary charges by the student conduct officer may be appealed through the Instructional or Grade Complaint Process established by the college. Decisions of the student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board may be appealed to the vice president for student affairs or designee.
1. The vice president for student affairs or designee has the authority to refer the request for an appeal to an appeals review board or other appellate body established by the college president or designee.

d) Grounds for Appeal
I. Failure to identify the basis for the appeal in the letter requesting the appeal will result in a denial of the appeal request. The valid bases for appeal are limited to:
1. A procedural error occurred which substantially affected the outcome of the hearing. Appeals based on this consideration will be limited solely to a review of the written record and, where applicable, tape recording of the Judicial Review Board hearing.
2. New evidence exists, which was not available at the time of the original hearing, and which would have substantially affected the outcome. The nature of the evidence must be described in full detail and support documentation must be provided with the written request for appeal.
3. The intervention(s) or sanction(s) imposed were disproportionate to the nature of the offense.

e) Appellate Review
I. A written appeal must be submitted within five (5) business days of the receipt of the written decision of the conduct officer or Judicial Review Board to the appropriate appellate body listed in Appellate Forums section of this Code. If the conduct officer’s or Judicial Review Board’s decision is not appealed within that time frame, the decision of the conduct officer or Judicial Review Board becomes final.

II. Record of Appeal
1. The record of appeal will consist of and be limited to the written appeal request, audio recording (if applicable), written decision of the student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board and any other documentation relevant to the grounds for appeal.
III. Appellate Review
1. The appellate body shall review the appeal request within ten (10) business days after receipt of the written appeal. Additional time may be granted at the discretion of the vice president for student affairs or designee.
2. The appeal request review must be solely limited to the issues put forth in the appeal and the grounds for appeal as outlined in the Grounds for Appeals section of this Code.
3. The appellate body will review the written appeal, tape recording (if applicable) and other appropriate documentation from the hearing, and determine if the student has identified a valid basis for appeal.
4. If the student has identified a valid basis for an appeal, the appellate body will schedule an appellate conference and will notify the student, in writing, of the date and time of the appellate conference.
5. If the appellate body determines that the student has not stated a valid basis for appeal, a written decision will be sent to the student, stating that the appeal request has been denied, along with the basis for the denial, within the five (5) business days from the decision to deny the appeal request. The decision of the appellate body will constitute final action on behalf of the college.

f) Appellate Conference Procedures
I. If an appeal request is granted, an appellate review conference will be scheduled within ten (10) business days of the decision to grant the appeal request.
II. The appellate conference is audio recorded.
III. The appellate conference may involve the following:
1. Questioning, by the appellate body, of any party involved in the disciplinary process, but limited to the Grounds for Appeal section of this Code.
2. If the Respondent or victim (if applicable) is requested at the appellate conference, he/she may bring an adviser. The adviser may not speak to the appellate body or speak on a student’s behalf.
3. The final appellate decision will be sent in writing to the Respondent, within ten (10) business days of the appellate conference, unless notification is given that additional time is necessary for consideration of the record on appeal.
4. If a Respondent has been invited to attend an appellate conference, but fails to appear, the conference will occur in the absence of the Respondent, and the appellate body’s decision will constitute final action on behalf of the college.

g) Appellate Decisions
I. After an appellate conference, the appellate body may:
1. Uphold the student conduct officer’s or Judicial Review Board’s decision (sanction deadline dates may be changed to reflect the time taken to complete the appeals process).
2. Reverse the student conduct officer’s or Judicial Review Board’s decision and dismiss the case.
3. Modify the student conduct officer’s or Judicial Review Board’s decision.
4. Modify the disciplinary action(s) and/or sanction(s) rendered by the student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board.
II. Decisions of the appellate body constitute final action on behalf of the college.

K. Interim and Emergency Actions

a) Grounds for Interim and Emergency Action
I. Interim and emergency action may be taken in situations, prior to an investigation or hearing, where the vice president for student affairs or designee has reasonable cause to believe a student’s alleged conduct and/or continued presence at the college poses a significant risk to the health or safety of others

b) Types of Interim and Emergency Actions
I. The following immediate temporary action may include an imposition of the following:
1. Interim “No Contact Order” which prohibits communicating with a specific person, group, department or organization;
2. Interim removal from a course, classrooms, office, building, area or any college premise;
3. Interim restriction from participating in specified student organizations, athletic teams, academic or social activities, and/or college sponsored activities;
4. Interim access restriction to a specific facilities, buildings, areas or classrooms; and/or
5. Interim withdrawal or suspension from the college.

c) Interim and Emergency Action Status Change
I. A student under interim action will remain in such status until:
1. The interim action is revised, modified or rescinded, in writing, by the vice president for student affairs or designee; or
2. The written outcome from a hearing or mediated forum regarding the matter warrants a change in status.

d) Interim and Emergency Action Notice
I. An interim and emergency notice will be provided to the student, in writing, via express mail or hand delivery by a college official, within 72 hours from the decision to enact the interim and emergency action.
II. The notice given to a student under interim action will include:
1. Notice imposing interim action;
2. The type(s) of interim and emergency action(s) being imposed;
3. The specific Code charge(s);
4. A brief description of the allegations or alleged offenses upon which the charge(s) is/are based;
5. An invitation to attend an information session during which the charged student will be afforded an explanation of the charges and an opportunity to respond to the charges.

e) Interim and Emergency Action Hearing and Appeal Procedures
I. Procedures for handling interim and emergency actions will be conducted in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Disciplinary Hearing section of this Code.
II. Procedures for handling interim and emergency appeals will be conducted in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Appeals section of this Code.

L. Official Record of Disciplinary Proceeding

a) An audio recording will be made of all formal hearings before the Judicial Review Board. The tape recording shall be the official record of the disciplinary proceeding and shall be maintained by the vice president for student affairs or designee.

b) If a tape malfunction occurs, the Judicial Review Board shall include a summary of the testimony, which is detailed to permit a review of the hearing in case of appeal.

c) A Respondent may review the tape recording of his/her hearing by scheduling an appointment with the student conduct officer. A copy of recorded hearings will not be provided to any person.

M. Failure to Respond to Disciplinary Action

a) A student who fails to comply with a disciplinary action or sanction within the specified time frame may be charged with the Student Conduct Code violation, “Failure to Comply.”

b) It is the student’s responsibility to notify the student conduct officer if there are mitigating circumstances that prevent him/her from completing the disciplinary action(s)/sanction(s) by a specified time frame. The student conduct officer may extend the deadline time, at his/her discretion. It is the student’s responsibility to complete all sanctions within the specified time frame to avoid a hold and or a charge of “Failure to Comply.”

c) A disciplinary hold will be placed on a student’s records if a student fails to respond to requests of disciplinary authorities or fails to comply with disciplinary action(s)/ sanctions as determined through final action of the college. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the matter is resolved or the student has complied with all disciplinary action(s)/sanction(s).

N. Disciplinary Holds

a) A disciplinary hold will be placed on the records and registration of any student who:
I. Fails to respond to a disciplinary notice by the student conduct officer or Judicial Review Board. Any pending disciplinary matters must be resolved prior to re-registration or a student’s graduation. No student will be allowed to register, obtain official transcripts or financial aid until the pending disciplinary proceeding is completed;
II. Fails to comply with disciplinary sanctions. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the student has complied with required disciplinary action(s)/sanction(s).
III. Is under an Interim Suspension from the college. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the pending disciplinary proceeding is completed;
IV. Is under suspension or dismissal from the college. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the student has served the entire suspension and/or has successfully met the requirements for readmission set forth by the disciplinary or appellate authority; or
V. Is under expulsion from the college. The disciplinary hold may be removed, upon written request, for a student to obtain his/her official transcript.

O. Parental Notification

a) In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), authorized college officials may inform the parents or legal guardians of students under the age of 18 of any disciplinary action taken by the college.

P. Delivery of Disciplinary Notification

a) The address and/or email address on file with the registrar’s office will be used for all disciplinary notices issued to a student. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure the address and email address on file with the registrar are current and updated on a regular basis.

b) In cases where the assurance of the safety of the person or others is required, written disciplinary notices may be delivered by hand to the student

c) In cases involving a student organization, disciplinary notices will be delivered to the student organization president or chair via the organization’s student club mailbox and/or the student’s college email or other email address obtained during the information session. A copy of all disciplinary notices will be sent to the faculty adviser for the organization and college official(s) responsible for the oversight of student organizations.

Q. Disciplinary Records

a) Official Records Management
I. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), all student discipline records, including records of any disciplinary proceedings and appellate records of students and student organizations (including taped audio recordings, if applicable), will be maintained by the Student Conduct Office.

b) Transcript Notation
I. In cases of dismissal, students will have the notation of “Disciplinary Dismissal” on their college transcript during the dismissal period.
II. In cases of expulsion, students will have the notation of “Disciplinary Expulsion” on their college transcript.

19.0 Code of Conduct and Title IX Appeal Procedures

In all Title IX investigations, the victim and/or complainant and the respondent shall receive simultaneous, written notification of the Title IX determination, including information regarding appeal rights, within seven (7) days of when the determination is made.

Students have the right to appeal any Code of Conduct or Title IX determination. For Title IX determinations, both the victim and/or complainant and the respondent have a right to appeal. Appeals must be submitted to the individual designated in the determination letter to accept appeals within 10 business days after receipt of the Code of Conduct or Title IX determination.

If a student does not appeal within the 10 business day period, the decision of the Code of Conduct Investigator or Title IX Coordinator will be final.

The appeal request must be typewritten and must state the grounds for appeal to the Judicial Review Board. Appeals must be made based on one or more of the following.

1. A procedural error occurred.

2. The findings of fact in the decision contain inaccurate information.

3. New information not offered during the investigation that would substantially change the outcome of the finding is now available. In such cases, the new information must be described.

4. The sanction imposed is lenient, excessive or otherwise disproportionate with the violation.

Within 10 business days after receipt of the appeal request, the Judicial Review Board will decide if the appeal meets one of the above enumerated grounds of appeal. If the appeal is granted, the Judicial Review Board will review and consider the written findings and determination of the Code of Conduct Investigator or Title IX Coordinator, all evidence considered by the Code of Conduct Investigator or the Title IX Coordinator, the written appeal and, if applicable, new evidence offered for consideration, and will make a final decision. The Judicial Review Board shall provide its appeal decision in writing, along with all relevant documentation, to the Dean of Student Development.

The appellant will be notified of the appeal decision in writing, by certified mail, return receipt requested. In a Title IX appeal, both the victim and/or complainant and the respondent shall receive the appeal decision in writing within 7 days after the conclusion of the appeal review.

20.0 State and District Resident

To be classified as a resident of the district, one must have occupied a dwelling in the community college district for 30 days immediately prior to the beginning of the term/semester and must demonstrate district residency by providing a high school transcript, a drivers license, a voter’s registration card, or other requested documentation.
Residents of a contiguous community college district whose “home” high school, due to consolidation of high school districts, is within KCC’s district will be considered in-district residents for purposes of tuition assessment and admission to programs.
Individuals who do not reside in district 520 but work at least 35 hours or more a week within the district are eligible for in-district tuition. Students will be asked to provide proof of employment by submitting a signed affidavit from their in-district employer on company letterhead stating they are employed for 35 hours or more per week.
Students owning property within the district will be assessed in-district tuition if acceptable documentation is provided.

20.1 Other Provisions

Students who fail to meet the 30-day requirement prior to enrollment may not satisfy the requirement while enrolled in consecutive terms as a student.
Students who move to Illinois from outside the state or from other parts of Illinois to the district with a verifiable interest of establishing a permanent residence and without the primary intent of attending a community college may be exempted from the 30-day requirement for establishing state and/or district residency.

20.2 For the college’s purposes of determining residency, an adult student is a person 18 years of age or older, and a “minor” student is a student under 18 years of age. Nonresident status will be assigned to those students who do not meet the requirements for resident status other than those exceptions clearly indicated in the following regulations.

20.3 Residency determination

Evidence for determination of residence status of each applicant for admission to the college is to be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Registration at the time of application for admission. A student may be reclassified at any time by the college upon the basis of additional or changed information. Student residency will be reviewed each semester/term of enrollment. However, if the student is classified in error as a resident student, the change in tuition will be applicable for the semester or term in which the reclassification occurs; if the student is classified in error as a nonresident, the change in tuition will be applicable to the term in which the reclassification occurs, provided the student has filed a written request for a review with the Office of Admissions and Registration in accordance with these regulations.

Definition of Terminology:

To the extent that the terms “bona fide residence,” “independent,” “dependent,” and “emancipated” are not defined in these regulations, definitions will be determined according to the pertinent facts and to the applicable laws and court decisions of the state of Illinois. Voter registration, filing of taxes, proper license and registration for the driving or ownership of a vehicle, and other such transactions may verify intent of residency in a district.

20.4 Procedure for review of residency status and/or tuition assessment:

A student who takes exception to the residency status assigned and/or tuition assessed will pay the tuition assessed, but may file a claim in writing to the Office of Admissions and Registration for a reconsideration of residency status and/or an adjustment of the tuition assessed. For purposes of admission, the written claim must be filed within 20 (twenty) calendar days from the start of the term/semester.

20.5 Married student:

A nonresidential student who is a citizen of the United States of America or who holds permanent resident, “Refugee-Parolee,” or “Conditional Entrant” status with the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service, whether male or female, or a minor or adult, who is married to a person who meets and complies with all of the applicable requirements of these regulations to establish resident status will be classified as a resident.

20.6 Persons not citizens of the United States:

A person who is not a citizen of the United States of America, to be considered a resident must have permanent resident status at least 30 days prior to enrollment.

20.7 Armed Forces personnel:

A student on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States who resides in the district will be assessed in-district tuition along with his/her dependents.

20.8 Students utilizing benefits under the federal Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, or any subsequent variation of that act, will be treated as in-district residents for tuition purposes.

20.9 Students utilizing benefits under the federal All-Volunteer Force Educational Assistance Program will be treated as Illinois residents for tuition purposes.

20.10 Full-time KCC staff members and their dependents will be treated as in-district residents.

21.0 Petition and Appeal

21.1 All official action relative to a student appeal must be in writing. Copies of correspondence will be filed with the Office of Admissions and Registration.

21.2 An Academic Appeals Petition form (available in Student Affairs) must be filed to withdraw from a course(s); repeat a course; be re-admitted after suspension; or amend a limited academic load during the first term/semester of readmission. The student may be asked to appear before the Academic Appeals Committee.

21.3 The student and other involved personnel will be notified in writing of the decision made by the Academic Appeals Committee. The decision is final.

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