TSC STUDENT HANDBOOK AND CODE OF CONDUCT 2026-27

The Tallahassee State College Police Department assists students, faculty, staff, and visitors with law enforcement while on campus. TSCPD uses community-oriented policing practices and multiple crime prevention activities to accomplish a high level of service. The goal is to provide these services in a manner that is accessible to all and supports the mission of the College.

TSCPD officers are certified through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and have the ability to enforce all federal, state, and local laws. Non-sworn public safety officers assist the TSC community by providing escorts, managing TSC’s Lost and Found program, and performing other non-emergency duties.

Contact
Call: 24 hours a day at (850) 201-6100
Stop by: The Second Floor of the Center Building
Email: campuspolice@TSC.fl.edu

Anyone who is a victim of, or a witness to, criminal activity or who observes suspicious activities and/or persons on campus should notify TSCPD and report the nature of the incident, the location of the incident, and the description of persons and property involved. TSC police are trained to respond to and investigate any type of crime occurring on campus. Periodically, TSC police will work in cooperation with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to resolve criminal or suspicious incidents on campus.

A psychological crisis exists when an individual is threatening harm to self or others, is out of touch with reality because of severe drug or alcohol reactions, or is experiencing a psychotic breakdown (e.g., hallucinations, uncontrolled behavior). In the event of such a crisis, notify TSCPD and state clearly that immediate assistance is required.

A student who has been victimized has options for how to proceed with the resolution of that incident. In some cases, TSCPD may work in conjunction with the Student Conduct Office toward an equitable solution. In addition, the TSC Title IX Coordinator may work with this team to resolve an incident. If a student does not feel comfortable reporting a crime or related incident to TSCPD, the student may begin the complaint process with a campus security authority (CSA). CSAs are trained to receive information about an incident and report it in the appropriate manner. CSAs include deans, directors, coaches, and other administrators at TSC. Faculty members are also trained to assist in this process.

Any student who has been involved in relationship violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment may seek assistance from Refuge House, which provides services free of charge by calling (850) 681-2111, toll-free at 800-500-1119, or visiting refugehouse.com.

TSCPD offers the nationally recognized Civilian Response to Active Shooter Event (C.R.A.S.E.) training program to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. TSCPD is aware of the continuing need for preparedness training. Built around the AVOID-DENY-DEFEND model, the CRASE message is designed to educate, empower, and provide attendees with an action plan for surviving an active shooter event. Through situational awareness and mental scripting, attendees will leave with a sense of preparedness, not fear.

As part of TSC’s compliance with federal guidelines for reporting TSC security policies and campus crime statistics, TSCPD publishes and distributes an annual security report. Parents and students may view the current report and daily crime logs by visiting the TSCPD website and clicking the heading “Campus Crime Statistic.”

TSC follows the National Behavioral Intervention Team Association (NaBITA) model and holds regular meetings of its Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) as part of its incident mitigation strategy. A BIT is a multi-disciplinary group whose purpose is to meet regularly to support its target audience (students, employees, faculty, staff, community, workplace) via an established protocol designed to help detect early indicators of the potential for disruptive conduct, self-harm, and the risk of violence to others. The team tracks “red flags” over time, detecting patterns, trends, and disturbances in individual or group behavior. When a BIT receives reports of disruptive, problematic, or concerning behavior or misconduct (from co-workers, community members, friends, colleagues, etc.), the team investigates, performs a threat assessment, and determines the best mechanisms for support, intervention, warning/notification, and response. The team then deploys its resources and the resources of the community and coordinates follow-up.

Crisis counseling is also available for anyone in need through the TSC Counseling Center. The Center provides crisis counseling and assists students with referrals to community mental health providers.

Contact
Call: (850) 201-7726
Stop by: Technology and Professional Programs Building (TPP), Room 141
Email: counselingcenter@TSC.fl.edu

This free mobile app integrates with TSC’s safety and security systems and provides numerous powerful safety features, including access to Campus Police resources, information on weather emergencies, virtual walk home and friend walk tools, anonymous and suspicious activity reporting, campus maps, and support resources. EagleSafe allows you to rapidly provide information about yourself to TSCPD during an emergency. By building a personal profile, information about you can be immediately shared with TSCPD dispatchers if you call from a registered mobile phone. EagleSafe can also provide police with GPS coordinates from your phone (if available), which can decrease response time and allow first responders to locate you if you are not able to give them your location.

TSC Alert is a mass notification system that sends time-sensitive emergency messages. Students, faculty, and staff are automatically enrolled in the TSC Alert program. The service is also available to parents of TSC students. To ensure that important messages reach the campus community rapidly during urgent situations, TSC Alert can send messages through several modes of communication, including:

• Voice messages to home phones, work phones, and mobile phones
• Text messages to mobile phones
• Posts to TSC’s Facebook page
• Posts to Twitter account
• AlertUs computer desktop screen pop-up

For more information or to sign up, visit TSC.fl.edu/TSCalert.

 

The authority to declare a campus state of emergency rests with the College President or designee. The President or designee directs the emergency response effort; works with the emergency coordinator (the TSC Chief of Police) and others in assessing the emergency and preparing the College’s specific response; declares a campus state of emergency and ends such when appropriate; and informs and conducts liaison activities with the emergency coordinator, the faculty, staff members, and responding emergency service agencies.

TSCPD directs all aspects of the College’s emergency response and will take immediate and appropriate action to protect life and property.

Building captains, College officials wearing red vests may be part of TSC’s response to an emergency. Building captains may assist in managing a campus-wide emergency with information updates and directions related to the campus community's safety.

Each student is required to apply for admission to the College with proof of high school graduation or GED and transcripts from all postsecondary institutions previously attended. TSC reserves the right to deny admission to any applicant about whom there is evidence the individual may be destructive or interfere with the College's orderly conduct, processes, functions, or programs.

TSC is committed to treating those with a criminal or disciplinary history with dignity and respect. We believe in the value of second chances and the impact education can have on economic and social mobility. All students who have had certain prior legal and/or educational discipline violations must provide this information on the TSC admission application. This information will be referred to the Student Conduct Office for review.

All violations are reviewed case-by-case and weighted in favor of the safety and welfare of the campus community. When appropriate, the Student Conduct Office reserves the right to place conditions on a student’s enrollment or recommend to Admissions and Records that the student be denied enrollment. When denied admission, the student may have the right to appeal based on specific criteria or circumstances, which will be provided in the denial letter.

TSC has authorized the National Student Clearinghouse to provide enrollment and degree verification for students who need to provide this information to potential employers, lenders, or others. To obtain degree verification, go to www.myhub.org/home and follow the prompts. The student, company, or agency requesting the verification may be assessed a convenience fee.

Verification of enrollment for a term will be certified only after the fifth day of classes (the last day to drop a class) for that term. Additionally, certification is calculated on the date request is made. If a student withdraws from courses in the current term before the verification request, those courses will not be included in the total enrollment hours reported.

It is important that students update their records to reflect changes or corrections in their personal information (e.g., name, Social Security number, address, phone number, and email address). Changes can be made online in Workday. Changes can also be made by completing the Personal Information Change form online at TSC.fl.edu/admissions/forms. Name changes and corrections to Social Security numbers are processed by Admissions and Records, and appropriate documentation must be provided.

TSC has partnered with Parchment to provide official transcript-ordering and processing services. Students can order transcripts online 24 hours a day with customer service provided Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. E.S.T. The combination of services includes an online transcript ordering system, electronic delivery of transcripts via FASTER in PDF format, and paper transcript delivery. The Parchment transcript ordering system uses an authentication process that is FERPA compliant and is able to electronically authenticate both current students and alumni, and communicate with students via email and text messaging throughout the process. To initiate the ordering process, visit TSC.fl.edu/transcripts.

TSC does not charge for transcripts; however, Parchment assesses a processing fee per transcript order being delivered electronically. Transcripts delivered via first-class U.S. Mail, or FedEx incur additional charges.

Students may view and print their unofficial transcript on Workday. Students should log in to Workday and select the Academics and Advising Hub.  Under “Suggested Links, select “Generate Unofficial Transcript.”

Students should monitor their academic progress regularly to make sure they have satisfied their degree requirements. Students should ensure they are marked as “Pending Completion” for the semester they expect to graduate.

Students with questions regarding their status should contact their Academic Advisor.

A formal commencement ceremony is held twice each year. At the end of the Fall semester, there will be one for all previous Summer and Fall graduates. There will also be a ceremony for all Spring semester graduates at the end of the Spring semester. Contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at (850) 201-8490 or visit the commencement webpage.

 

How to Prevent Drug and Alcohol Abuse:

While there is no one way or guaranteed way to prevent someone from abusing drugs and alcohol, there are things that everyone can do to prevent substance abuse.

The top five ways to prevent substance abuse are:

1. Understand how substance abuse develops. 

Substance abuse starts by:

• Using addictive drugs (illicit or prescribed) for recreational purposes
• Seeking out intoxication every time you use
• Abusing prescription medication

2. Avoid Temptation and Peer Pressure. 

Develop healthy friendships and relationships by avoiding friends or family members who pressure you to use substances. It’s often said “we become most like those we surround ourselves by,” meaning if you surround yourself with people who abuse drugs and alcohol you are more likely to as well. Peer pressure is a major part of life for teens and adults. If you are looking to stay drug free develop a good way to just say no, prepare a good excuse or plan ahead of time to keep from giving into peer pressure.

3. Seek help for mental illness. 

Mental illness and substance abuse often go hand in hand. If you are dealing with a mental illness such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder you should seek professional help from a licensed therapist or counselor. A professional will provide you with healthy coping skills to alleviate your symptoms without turning to drugs and alcohol.

4. Examine the risk factors. 

Look at your family history of mental illness and addiction, several studies have shown that this disease tends to run in the family, but can be prevented. The more you are aware of your biological, environmental and physical risk factors the more likely you are to overcome them.

5. Keep a well-balanced life. 

People often turn to drugs and alcohol when something in their life is missing or not working. Practicing stress management skills can help you overcome these life stressors and will help you live a balanced and healthy life. Develop goals and dreams for your future. These will help you focus on what you want and help you realize that drugs and alcohol will simply get in the way and hinder you from achieving your goals.

Health Risks Associated with the Use of Illicit Drugs:

The Impact of Addiction Can Be Far-Reaching

• Cardiovascular disease
• Stroke
• Cancer
• HIV/AIDS
• Hepatitis B and C
• Lung disease
• Mental disorders

College Policy Prohibiting Drugs and Alcohol Use:

The College recognizes the serious nature and harmful effects of employees and students using controlled substances and alcoholic beverages in the workplace and learning environment: these include, increased healthcare costs, decreased productivity and a higher risk of accidents and injuries.

As part of being a drug-free campus, the College prohibits the unlawful or unauthorized manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, sale, service, or use of controlled substances or alcoholic beverages on College property or sites where College activities are conducted. Policy 8410, Controlled Substances and Alcoholic Beverages, implements Section 1213, Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Drug-Free School and Communities Act of 1989 (P.L. 101-226) Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention (20 U.S.C.s 1145g), Section 104 (a) Americans with Disabilities Act.

Reporting:

If an employee or student observes any behavioral symptoms or reactions commonly attributed to the use of drugs and/or alcohol by a student, employee, visitor, contractor or vendor please notify TSC Administration and/or Human Resources immediately.

College Sanctions:

The College will impose disciplinary sanctions consistent with local, state, and federal law on students and employees who violate its policies regarding drugs and alcohol.  These sanctions may lead to referral for prosecution and/or discipline up to and including employee dismissal or student expulsion. 

Drug or Alcohol Counseling/Resources:

Individuals who have drug or alcohol problems are encouraged to seek assistance through the College's Employee Assistance Program and students are encouraged to contact the College's Counseling Center.

For additional information please review College Policies 1200/2200/3200 – Employee Standards of Conduct, 1120/2120/3120 – Corrective Action/Employee Discipline, 1121.01/2121.01/3121.01 – Mandatory Self-Reporting, 5200 – Student Code of Conduct, 8410 – Controlled Substances and Alcohol Beverages, and 8455 - Drug-Free Campus.

The withdrawal policy applies to all credit students, including distance learning students. TSC has one withdrawal deadline, equivalent to the term's midpoint for each session. These dates are published in the academic calendar and on the Course Withdrawal link on the Registrar's Office webpage.

All students have the capability to withdraw from a course online through Workday. Log in to Workday, select View My Courses, then scroll to the right and click Drop on the line of the course to drop. It is important to read all warning messages carefully. A student can drop a course with a full refund through the session's fifth day. Beginning day six through the published withdrawal deadline for the session, the student may withdraw from a course but will receive a grade of W.  

The online option for withdrawal applies to all students and courses with the following exceptions:

Student Type

• Athletes: Requires the Withdrawal Form (For Students-Athletes & International Students only) via DocuSign showing approval of the athletic director
• High school dual-enrolled students: Requires DocuSign withdrawal form showing approval of high school counselor and TSC Dual Enrollment Coordinator
• International students: Requires the Withdrawal Form (For Students-Athletes & International Students only) via DocuSign showing approval of International Career and Academic Advisor showing approval of international student counselor

Course Type

Third and Fourth Attempt

Students are not permitted to withdraw from a third or fourth attempt of a course and must receive a grade. In accordance with State Board of Education Rule 6A- 14.0301, students are permitted a maximum of two withdrawals per course. Students who are required to submit a paper withdrawal form may obtain the form in Admissions and Records, located on the second floor of the Student Union.

Students seeking a withdrawal who submit their request before the withdrawal deadline will receive a grade of W recorded on their permanent record (official transcript) for each course in which they were enrolled at the time of withdrawal. No instructor signature is required. Students who have accumulated 12 or more hours of college credit may not withdraw from developmental courses unless they are withdrawing from the College.

Faculty members whose policy is to withdraw students by using the AW grade must do so by the College’s established withdrawal deadline.

Withdrawal After Deadline

In certain instances, students may have grounds to appeal for a withdrawal after the published deadline. Students who miss the official withdrawal deadline and have documented circumstances warranting further consideration must go through an appeals process. The compilation of documentation for the appeal is the responsibility of the student.

Withdrawal after the deadline may be considered due to one of the following extenuating circumstances, provided that the student submits the required documentation:

• Serious illness or incapacity due to an accident
• Death, serious illness, or incapacity due to an accident of a member of the student’s immediate family
• Extreme emergency or catastrophe, such as medical/psychological trauma of the student as evidenced by a physician’s letter
• Military orders to report
• Natural disasters affecting the student or immediate family

The appeal form can be found in Workday. Go to Your Top Apps and choose Academic and Advising Hub. Go to Suggested Links, then choose TSC College Forms and select the appropriate appeal form. You must attach your statement of your situation and how it affected you academically. You must also attach documentation that supports your statement.

Term Cancellation

Students may drop classes during the first five days of the term and receive a refund. Students who do not drop classes during that time and have documentation proving that extenuating circumstances prohibit the return to class may appeal for a Cancellation of the Term. An appeal for a Cancellation of Term must be made prior to the end of the term requested.

Students who wish to cancel all their courses for a term or session must submit an appeal to the Office of Student Affairs and provide documentation of extenuating circumstances, including the following:

• Incapacitating illness (physical or psychological) or injury
• Death of immediate family that prohibits the student’s return to class during the term being considered (must show proof of kinship)
• Military orders and report dates after the refund deadline and prior to the withdrawal deadline

The appeal form can be found in Workday. Go to Your Top Apps and choose Academic and Advising Hub. Go to Suggested Links, then choose TSC College Forms and select the appropriate appeal form. You must attach your statement of your situation and how it affected you academically. You must also attach documentation that supports your statement.

Repeating Courses

When students repeat a course in which they have received a grade of D or F, the best grade and grade points earned in the repetition will be used in calculating the TSC GPA and credits earned. However, forgiveness may not transfer to other institutions; therefore, repeated courses may impact the computation of the GPA when students transfer to other institutions, either public or private. Students should also consider the impact of retaking a course on their specific financial aid package. Students are not permitted to repeat courses in which they have received grades of C or better or to earn forgiveness after they receive an A.A. degree. Courses may be repeated if they are designated as repeatable, such as choir, music, or journalism, or are individualized courses of study; if they are required to be repeated by a regulatory agency; or if they are being repeated as part of a regulatory requirement for continuing education to stay current in the field, such as teacher certification.

In accordance with State Board of Education Rule 6A- 14.0301, students may have only three attempts per course, including the original grade, repeat grades, and withdrawals at any point in the semester. In accordance with s. 1004.93, s. 1004.94, s. 1009.28 and s. 1009.285, F.S., students enrolled in the same developmental or college-level course more than two times shall pay the full cost (100 percent) of instruction, except in approved cases of extenuating circumstances. Students in their third or fourth attempt in a course are not permitted to withdraw or receive an administrative withdrawal and must receive a letter grade (A-F).

The appeal form can be found in Workday. Go to Your Top Apps and choose Academic and Advising Hub. Go to Suggested Links, then choose TSC College Forms and select the appropriate appeal form. You must attach your statement of your situation and how it affected you academically. You must also attach documentation that supports your statement.

Fourth Attempts

Students who wish to attempt the same course a fourth time must submit an appeal to the Office of Student Affairs. Students submitting an appeal must document extenuating circumstances. It is important to note that an attempt is defined as enrollment past the drop/refund deadline. A student requesting permission to enroll in a course(s) for the fourth time must provide documentation showing proof of major extenuating circumstances during the third attempt for this request to be considered.

The link to the appeal form is on the Workday dashboard. Go to Your Top Apps, then select Academic and Advising Hub. Choose TSC College Forms under Suggested Links, click TSC College Forms on the next page, and then click Submit New Form. Scroll down to the Student Affairs section and select the appropriate appeal form.

A student who is permitted to take a course for the fourth time to complete a degree or certificate from TSC must meet with their Academic Success Coach for enrollment into that course. The student will not be permitted to withdraw and will receive a grade in the course. The fourth attempt is the last permissible attempt in a course at TSC.

 

Overview

At Tallahassee State College, students may, without prior notice, audio or video record a class lecture in which the student is enrolled for three specified purposes as outlined in House Bill 233 Section 1004.097, Florida Statutes: (1) for the student’s own personal educational use; (2) in connection with a complaint to the college where the recording is made; or (3) as evidence in, or in preparation for, a criminal or civil proceeding.

Class Lecture

A class lecture is defined as an educational presentation by the instructor as part of a college course intended to inform or teach enrolled students about a particular subject.  A class lecture will occur most often in a course identified by the college as a lecture-type course, whether online or in-person, as opposed to a lab course or a course section identified as a discussion section or seminar.

A class lecture does not include lab or recitation sessions; student presentations (whether individually or part of a group); class discussions (except when incidental to a class lecture); academic exercises involving student participation; clinical practica and presentations that involve patient histories and other types of protected health information; academic exercises involving student participation; test or examination administrations; field trips; and private conversations between students in the class or between a student and a faculty member. 

Any class recording that personally identifies a student who has not consented to being recorded will not be recognized as a part of a class lecture for these purposes, and such a recording may be subject to other laws or institutional policies such as the Code of Student Conduct.

A class lecture recording may not be published without the written consent of the instructor, except that it may be shared with college officials or state and federal government officials in connection with a complaint to the college or used as evidence in a criminal or civil proceeding.  Violation of this provision may subject the student to disciplinary action by the college and/or to a legal action by a person injured by the publication.

Publish

To publish means to share, transmit, circulate, distribute, or otherwise provide access to the recording, regardless of format or medium, to another person, or persons, including but not limited to another student in the class.  Additionally, a recording, or transcript of the recording, is published if it is posted on or uploaded to, in whole or in part, any digital or print media platform, including but not limited to social media, book, magazine, newspaper, leaflet, picket signs, educational media platforms, group chats, email, texts, or any mode of print.

TSC is dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education in a supportive environment. Academic Recovery aims to communicate the College’s minimum expectations of academic progress.

TSC defines Good Academic Standing as:

• Students with 1-14 credit hours: 1.75 GPA or higher
• Students with 30 or more credit hours: 2.0 GPA or higher

*Students receiving financial aid must also maintain a 67% completion rate of all courses attempted. The Office of Financial Aid has a separate appeal process for students who fall below the Standards of Academic Progress and completion requirements.

Students who do not earn a grade point average of 1.75 or higher in their first semester will be considered below Good Standing, resulting in Academic Alert. Students on Academic Alert will be required to complete the Academic Recovery course available in Canvas, complete an online DocuSign form Academic Intervention Plan, and will be limited to no more than 13 credit hours. Academic Alerts are posted on transcripts.

Students below Good Standing in a second consecutive semester will be on Academic Notice. Students on Academic Notice will be required to complete an online DocuSign form ASAP-Academic Success Action Plan. Students will be limited to no more than 9 credit hours and are not permitted to register for Express courses until their cumulative GPA is raised to at least 2.0. Academic Notice are posted on transcripts.

Students below Good Standing in a third consecutive semester will be on Academic Suspension. Enrollment at TSC will be suspended for one full semester (e.g., fall, spring, or summer). To return after Academic Suspension, students will be required to complete an online DocuSign form ASAP-Academic Success Action Plan and meet with an academic advisor the term before returning to TSC. Students will be limited to no more than 6 credit hours and are not permitted to register for Express courses until the cumulative GPA is raised to at least 2.0. Academic Suspensions are posted on transcripts. 

Students returning from Suspension and not meeting Good Standing for a fourth semester will result in Academic Dismissal. Enrollment at TSC will be suspended for a minimum of one calendar year (12 months). To return after Dismissal, students must apply for re-admission into TSC, must complete and submit the online DocuSign form ASAP-Academic Success Action Plan, and meet with an academic advisor. This must be done the term before returning to TSC. Students will be limited to no more than 6 credit hours and are not permitted to register for Express courses until the cumulative GPA is raised to 2.0. Students returning from Dismissal will be on Conditional Academic Notice. Academic Dismissal are posted on transcripts. 

Students returning from Academic Suspension or Academic Dismissal will be placed on Conditional Academic Notice. The conditions for returning to classes are a) no more than 6 hours  and b) are not permitted to register for Express courses until the cumulative GPA is raised to 2.0. Students are required to complete an online DocuSign form ASAP-Academic Success Action Plan and meet with an academic advisor for the term before returning to TSC. Students will remain on Conditional Academic Notice until their cumulative GPA reaches 2.0 or better. Failure to meet Good Academic Standing could result in another Suspension or Dismissal. A Conditional Academic Notice will be posted on the academic transcript.

Students that were academically Suspended or Dismissed and wish to appeal for an early return due to circumstances that affected academic progress may submit an Online Academic Suspension-Dismissal Packet for committee review. Appeals should be accompanied by documented, extenuating circumstances. The online Academic Suspension-Dismissal Packet must be submitted via DocuSign in Workday by the deadline indicated. No late forms will be accepted. See the Academic Recovery page for details and deadlines. 

• Help develop educational and career plans
• Provide accurate information about academic progression and degree requirements
• Help understand academic policies and procedures
• Help access campus resources to promote academic success
• Enhance student retention and success through developing personal interactions with faculty and staff

Academic advising is critical to student success, and students can receive academic advising help year-round. Ways to get advising help, in addition to walking into the Advising Center, are one-one appointments, signing into Eagle Q, or in scheduled Advising and Registration Virtual Help Sessions throughout the year.

Advising is a shared responsibility. Students are expected to take an active role in their education and in the advising process by doing the following:

• Check TSC Outlook email daily for official communication from the College, instructors, and advisors
• Explore educational and career interests using campus services and other resources
• Get advised and register early when the registration window opens
• Complete the online orientation course in Canvas
• Complete the SuperStrong career assessment
• Attend a Welcome Session to hear about how to best start your academic journey and learn about all the campus resources for success
• Attend the annual Convocation “fall kickoff party” the Friday before classes begin
• Check the academic calendar for important dates and deadlines

• Admissions and Records (obtain information about transcript issues)
• Career Services (career counseling and exploration, internships, job shadowing, resume reviews)
• Student Accessibility Services (services for students with documented disabilities)
• org (university information, financial aid information, transient student form)
• Financial Aid (information on Pell Grants, student loans, Bright Futures, and scholarships)
• TSC Workday (transfer manuals, registration, drop/ add)
• Testing Center (Florida Postsecondary Education Readiness Test if applicable)

Students with an advising hold will be required to see a Career and Academic advisor, who will help create a customized academic plan. The Advising Center works with students to confirm career and educational goals, design semester plans that help balance school and life challenges and map out the courses and other requirements related to their academic pathway.

 

Section 1009.286, Florida Statutes, establishes an “excess hour” surcharge for a student seeking a baccalaureate degree at a state university. It is critical that students, including those entering Florida colleges, are aware of the potential for additional course fees. “Excess hours” are defined as hours that go beyond 120% of the hours required for a baccalaureate degree program. For example, if the length of the program is 120 credit hours, the student may be subject to an excess hour surcharge for any credits attempted beyond 144 credit hours (120% x 120).

All students whose educational plan may include earning a baccalaureate degree should make every effort to enroll in and successfully complete the courses required for their intended major on their first attempt. Florida college students intending to transfer to a state university should identify a major or “transfer program” early and be advised of admission requirements for that program, including the approved common prerequisites. Course withdrawals and/or repeats and enrollment in courses nonessential to the intended major may contribute to a potential excess hour’s surcharge.

To be considered for financial assistance, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at studentaid.gov. Individuals who have hearing impairments may call TDD at 1-800-730-8913. When applying, students should make sure they include TSC (institutional code 001533) on their list of schools designated to receive the FAFSA.

Once the FAFSA is analyzed by the federal government, which usually takes about four business days, students will receive an acknowledgment called the Student Aid Report (SAR). Students should keep their copy in a safe place in case it is needed. If corrections are later needed, students should make them online using the PIN FSA ID number, which you will be asked to create while on the FAFSA website. The student and TSC will receive a new report with the changes.

Students must be fully admitted, degree-seeking students at TSC, and must have submitted official high school transcripts with a posted graduation date or official GED scores. Transcripts from all previously attended postsecondary institutions must be evaluated, and students must meet TSC’s financial aid standards of satisfactory academic progress to qualify for financial aid. Students who become ineligible for financial aid for unsatisfactory progress will be governed by the academic progress regulations for financial aid found in the TSC catalog. Only courses that apply toward the student’s degree at TSC will be considered in a student’s enrollment status. A total of no more than 30 developmental credit hours will be considered in a student’s enrollment status.

Please refer to the fee payment deadlines in the Academic Calendar or in Workday.

Scholarship information is available through the TSC website.

Contact
Call: (850) 201-8411

If the SAR is correct, TSC will receive the information electronically and begin the award process using federal, state, institutional, and other non-institutional resources. This information will be sent to students in an award notification via their Workday student account.

To make your transition to college easier, apply early, respond to all correspondence, and be prepared to pay your expenses until your financial aid is received. Financial aid funds may not be available until several weeks after classes begin.

Contact
Call: (850) 201-8399
Stop by: Student Union, 278

In accordance with Florida Statutes, students may have only three attempts per course, including the original grade, repeat grades, and student- or faculty-initiated withdrawals by the published deadline or late withdrawals approved on appeal to the Enrollment Appeals Committee. Students enrolled in the same course more than two times shall pay the full cost of instruction (equal to out-of-state tuition), except in approved cases of extenuating circumstances.

The appeal form can be found in Workday. Go to Your Top Apps and choose Academic and Advising Hub. Go to Suggested Links, then choose TSC College Forms and select the appropriate appeal form. You must attach your statement of your situation and how it affected you academically. You must also attach documentation that supports your statement.

 

The total amount of tuition owed can be viewed in Workday under Finances. E-Check, credit card payments (American Express, Discover, VISA, MasterCard) may be made via Workday. Students making a credit card payment should keep a record of the confirmation number at the end of each transaction. Florida Prepaid College Plans will be automatically activated for students enrolled in this program with a valid social security number in Workday. Students who do not want to use their Florida Prepaid College Plan must opt out of the plan in their Workday student account. Students may also pay in person.

Contact
Call: (850) 201-8415
Stop by: Student Union Second Floor
Email: cashier@TSC.fl.edu

The waiver does not cover books, labs, distance learning, or student services fees. Students are responsible for paying fees, books, and materials.

The program operates on a space-available basis, so students wishing to use the waiver must register for classes during the established state employee registration period. Students who register for classes before this period or who are holding seats will be responsible for the full cost of instruction for those courses.

Traditional, web-based (online), web-assisted, and developmental courses are eligible. However, postsecondary adult vocational (PSAV) clock-hour courses and noncredit courses do not qualify for the TSC State Employee Tuition Waiver Program.

State employees must submit the TSC State Employee Tuition Waiver Form immediately after successful registration for an eligible class(es) and before the state employee's three-day registration window ends. The tuition waiver form must contain the signatures of the supervisor and agency head. The supervisors’ signatures must be dated no earlier than two weeks before the opening of the state employee registration period. The completed form should be sent to state-ee-waiver@TSC.fl.edu.

Note: The tuition waiver form must be submitted every session for which the student wishes to register using the waiver. Students should use the State Employee Tuition Waiver Form provided on the TSC website at TSC.fl.edu/stateemployee.

Information on specific registration dates and times is available at TSC.fl.edu/stateemployee.

Tuition and fees must be paid by the assigned payment deadline. At the time of class payment, the student will be required to pay in full all outstanding receivables and obligations, such as library fines and parking fines. Any unpaid debt will prevent the release of official transcripts, block additional course registration, and restrict access to other resources and services of the College until the debt is paid in full. Payment can be made with cash, credit card (VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express), debit card, check, or money order payable to Tallahassee State College and through the tuition payment plan.

• Credit card or e-check in Workday
• Check or money order mailed to the Cashier’s Office
• Cash, check, money order, debit card, or credit card in person at the Cashier’s Office
• Nelnet tuition payment plan (See below for more information)

Detailed payment instructions are provided on the Cashier’s webpage. Students are required to maintain current address information with the College. Address information can be updated in Workday or at the TSC Admissions and Records office.

If the student drops or adds classes or receives financial aid or other tuition coverage, the student must contact Nelnet directly at (800) 609-8056. If the Cashier’s office is not notified of these changes, payments will continue to be processed from the student’s bank account or credit card as agreed in the enrollment process. The time frame in which increases may be made to plans is limited to the enrollment period for the tuition payment plan.

Nelnet will remit all refunds to the College after the end of the drop/add period for the Main session. TSC will issue tuition payment plan refunds to students upon receipt.

A returned check is a check that is not honored when presented for payment and is returned to the College as unpaid due to insufficient funds, a closed account, or any other reason. The bank will run the check twice before returning it as insufficient funds. If the check does not clear after the second time, it will be returned to the Business office for collection. The student’s account will be flagged “Cash Only,” and the student will not be allowed to make payments via check in the future.

In accordance with section 832.07, Florida Statutes, the College is authorized to invoice the individual for the original amount of the check, in addition to a check fine and bank fee. If the account is sent to a collection agency, the individual will be responsible for all associated collection costs, and the account may be reported to the credit bureau. In the event of legal action for recovery, the maker or drawer may be additionally liable for court costs and reasonable attorney fees as prescribed by law.

 Dishonored credit card payments for tuition and fees, bookstore purchases, or other payments will result in the student or individual being obligated and billed for all tuition and fees due. The student will be blocked from making future payments by credit card when chargebacks occur.

Located on the main campus, the TSC Library shares a building with the Learning Commons and provides resources and services to suit the academic needs of our main campus students and instructors. Check out items at the first-floor circulation desk and receive research and citation assistance at the second-floor reference desk. TSC students, faculty, and staff may also use our computers to print and reserve individual or group study rooms.

The Ghazvini Library is located on the second floor of the Ghazvini Center for Healthcare Education. TSC students, faculty, and staff may check out books and other items, including laptops, webcams, headphones, and marker + eraser sets. Computers, printing, and study rooms are also available. Books and materials at this library are tailored to serve the needs of healthcare students at the Ghazvini Center.

Study Room Reservations

You can reserve an individual, group, or family study room at TSC-fl.libcal.com/spaces.

Ask a Librarian

Help is at your fingertips through text, chat, or email! Find out more at askalibrarian.org.

Print, Copy, and Fax

Find current information at TSC.fl.libguides.com/librarytutorials/printing.

The Learning Commons provides free tutoring services to all currently enrolled TSC students. Our tutors are certified in levels 1 and 2 through the College Reading & Learning Association International Tutor Training Program Certification (ITTPC). Students can access Learning Commons tutoring in person and online.

Academic Success Coaching is a free service for students offered to help advance college success skills, navigate the new college environment, and achieve academic, professional, and personal goals. Our Academic Success Coaching team offers students guidance and resources in a non-judgmental and supportive environment. On-campus and virtual success coaching are available to all students.

Academic Success Coaches help with:

• Time management
• Work/life balance
• Study skills and notetaking
• Motivation and goal setting
• Test-taking and test anxiety
• Organization
• Navigating college life

To register for accommodations and learn about services available at TSC, students should make an appointment with an advising specialist in the SAS office. Documentation should be provided by a medical doctor, psychologist, or other licensed specialist recognized to treat the specific disability.

Academic advisors are available to students with disabilities. These advisors act as advocates, mediate with instructors, and assist students in working with local agencies. Although TSC is responsible for notifying students, faculty, and staff of services available, students with disabilities are responsible for requesting services.

To ensure timely accommodations, students are encouraged to request services before the beginning of each semester. Accommodations include notetaking, reading, writing, interpreting, extended-time testing, adaptive computer lab, and individualized registration, and are available to eligible students.

The Adaptive Technology Computer Center and the Accommodated Testing Center are available for students with disabilities who require specialized or adaptive equipment. Braille printers, magnification equipment, computer software, calculators, Franklin Spellers, Dragon Naturally Speaking, JAWS, and other voice-synthesized computer aids are available. The lab and testing room are barrier-free.

The District Board of Trustees has established policies and procedures on reasonable substitutions to meet admission, graduation, or coursework requirements for eligible students. Students seeking a substitution must first meet with a representative to obtain the course substitution application. The staff member will provide information on the substitution process and guide the student through the procedures for substitution approval. The proper statement of substitution will be placed on the student’s transcript at graduation. Any denial of a course substitution may be appealed by the student. Any substitution previously granted to a student by another state of Florida postsecondary institution will be recognized by TSC. Services are listed in various TSC publications, including the catalog, faculty handbook, student handbook, and numerous college brochures. Services are also highlighted in new student welcome and staff orientation sessions.

Contact
Visit: TPP 141
Email: SAS@TSC.fl.edu

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the College has designated an ADA coordinator who oversees and coordinates the College’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities pertaining to ADA. The coordinator also serves as the contact person for all ADA policies, procedures, and concerns.

Contact
Call: (850) 201-8430
Email: dos@TSC.fl.edu  

 

TSC has adopted an internal grievance procedure that allows for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints that allege actions prohibited by the United States Department of Justice regulations implementing Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The grievance procedure aims to mediate a fair and equitable solution to a complaint alleging discrimination based on disability or a violation of the rules and regulations prohibiting discrimination as outlined in the ADA.

Persons who think they have been discriminated against based on disability or that there has been a violation of ADA guidelines should complete and submit TSC’s online Complaint Form or contact the College’s Equity Officer and Title IX Coordinator directly:

Renae Tolson
Equity Officer and Title IX Coordinator
444 Appleyard Drive
Administration Building, Room 239
Tallahassee, FL 32304

Contact
Call: (850) 201-6074
Email: tolson@TSC.fl.edu

The VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) program is a collaborative effort between the College and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VSOC program aims to help veterans, service members, and their qualified dependents succeed and thrive through a coordinated delivery of on-campus benefits assistance and counseling, leading to the completion of their education and preparing them to enter the labor market in viable careers. Under this program, an experienced vocational rehabilitation counselor (VRC) works on campus with TSC veteran and dependent students, assisting them with navigating their educational and other VA benefits. The VSOC serves as a “one-stop liaison” for veterans, active-duty military, and their dependent family members who attend or plan to attend TSC.

At the Veterans Success Center (VSC), our goals are to:

• Help understand and ensure access to all the campus resources available
• Help by providing study space and special tutoring
• Help TSC faculty and staff understand student veteran’s unique needs
• Provide the tools needed to stay on track

The VSC provides study space, computers, meeting space, lounge space, and access to advising and tutoring, all in one central location. Find us in CT 201.

 

Students who are called to active duty in the military while enrolled at TSC have several options regarding their registration status, depending on the length of deployment. For short-term deployment, students should notify their instructors as soon as possible of any required military duty during the term and provide appropriate documentation so that those dates are not counted as absences.

For an extended deployment, students may choose one of the following:

• Request through the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs a cancellation of the term while will remove the courses from the academic transcripts and processing a full refund for those courses. THIS OPTION IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED IF THE DEPLOYMENT IS PRIOR TO MID-TERM
• Request to be assigned “I” grades that will not convert to “F” grades for a period not to exceed two terms following the end of the term for which the “I” grade was assigned. Students who receive an “I” grade under this exceptional circumstance may receive a full tuition refund for the course in which “I” grades have not been removed by the end of the second term by requesting such a refund in writing to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs no later than the last official class day of the second term

It is the desire of the College that all decisions are made in the student’s best interest and that flexibility and assistance is provided where reasonable.

The Student Code of Conduct is intended to preserve academic integrity and the safety, health, welfare, and well-being of the TSC community and its visitors while creating learning opportunities and interventions that foster, promote, and support the ethical and moral development of TSC students. To this end, Tallahassee State College (hereinafter referred to as “TSC” or “the College”) is committed to a community of learners through rational inquiry and cooperative resolution of controversial issues. To achieve and support the educational mission and goals of the College in a safe environment where all students have the same opportunity to succeed academically, TSC shall establish regulations that set forth minimum standards for student behavior through the Student Code of Conduct.

As a postsecondary institution of higher education, TSC 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 accept responsibility for their own actions. Individuals and groups have the right to freedom of expression, but they must at all times respect the rights of others. The deliberate violation of TSC policies, rules, and regulations is counterproductive to building a learning community. Hence, TSC will act immediately to protect the life and property of TSC while maintaining and balancing the rights of students and the TSC community.

The right of every student to learn will be protected by implementing the Student Code of Conduct. Every student who accepts enrollment is responsible for becoming familiar with and abiding by College regulations and acceptable standards of conduct.

Students who fail to observe College regulations or to maintain acceptable standards of personal conduct on the campus or at College-sponsored functions or facilities are subject to disciplinary action. If an enrolled student is formally charged with a violation of federal, state, or local law, or with a delinquent act that would be a felony by a proper prosecuting attorney for an incident, or with conduct that may have an adverse impact on the educational program, discipline, or welfare of the College, whether on or off campus, the College has the right to take disciplinary action in accordance with the procedures governing student conduct.

Any question of interpretation regarding the Student Code of Conduct shall be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs for final determination. The Vice President for Student Affairs may confer with the College Attorney in rendering the final determination. The Student Code of Conduct shall be reviewed every four years by a committee appointed by the Vice President for Student Affairs. At the discretion of the District Board of Trustees, President, or designee, a review of the Student Code of Conduct may be requested prior to the four-year term date.

The Student Discipline Review Committee shall consist of faculty, staff, student representatives, and current members of TSC judicial bodies that reflect the diverse cultural dynamics of the College. The review shall occur, and recommendations be made to the Vice President for Student Affairs no later than December 31 of the review year.

To administer the Student Code of Conduct, the College shall establish and maintain up-to-date procedures and processes, which include, but are not limited to:

• Entity, department, and/or College personnel responsible for coordinating, assessing, and implementing established procedures
• Procedures for reporting alleged violations of the Student Conduct Code
• Criteria and procedures used in determining whether this policy and established procedures should be enacted
• Specific procedures to be implemented and actions to be taken by the designated entity, department, and/or College official if it is determined that this policy must be enacted
• Judicial bodies, forums, and types approved by the College President or designee for handling alleged violations of this policy
• The burden of proof used in the College disciplinary process for disciplinary hearings and appeals
• Procedures and processes for initiating charges, including filing times, a notice of charges, review of charges by the students, hearing notification, and role of judicial bodies
• Hearing procedures for adjudicating cases
• Right to appeals, and criteria, process, and procedures for handling appeals
• Special circumstances and processes regarding interim/emergency suspensions
• Maintenance, handling, and record management of confidential disciplinary records
• Parental notification procedures and processes
• Procedures for meeting the rights of students covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Entity/committee and process for the review of the Student Conduct Code and procedures

College Student Conduct proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with conduct that potentially violates both the law and this Code (if both possible violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this Code may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings at the discretion of the Vice President of Student Affairs. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under this Student Conduct Code shall not be subject to change because criminal charges arising out of the same facts giving rise to a violation of College rules were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant.

If the alleged offense is also being processed under the Student Conduct Code, the College may advise off-campus authorities of the existence of the Code and of how such matters typically are handled at the College. To the extent permitted by law, the College will cooperate with law enforcement and other agencies in the enforcement of criminal law on campus and in the conditions imposed by criminal courts for the rehabilitation of student violators (provided that the conditions do not conflict with College rules or sanctions). Individual students and other members of the College community, acting in their personal capacities, remain free to interact with governmental representatives as they deem appropriate.

Appellate Body

Any person or committee authorized by the president or designee to consider an appeal from a judicial body’s determination that a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct or from the sanctions imposed by the judicial body.

Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)

A group of campus professionals will assess and consider reports  concerning behaviors with a multi-disciplinary approach.

The BIT:

• Receives reports of concerning behaviors through TSC’s existing processes
• Provides recommended interventions to responsible parties, including but not limited to Human Resources or Student Conduct Office
• Ensures routing and tracking of cases to appropriate programs within the College for intervention and mitigation to the extent possible
• Reviews activity related to each report to ensure recommended actions and services are provided
• The BIT does render final decisions on student sanctions

Instructor/Faculty

Any person hired by TSC to conduct classroom or laboratory instruction, both on and off-campus or via distance learning.

Judicial Body

Any person or persons (e.g., Conduct Officer, Conduct Review Board) authorized by the President or designee to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and to determine the imposition of sanctions.

Conduct Officer

A TSC official authorized by the president or designee to administer the Student Code of Conduct, coordinate disciplinary processes of the College, take judicial action on behalf of the College, determine whether a student has violated the student code of conduct, and impose interventions/sanctions. The conduct officer is a judicial body and acts as the chair of the Conduct Review Board.

Includes any person that has:

• Accepted an offer of admission to the College, regardless of if enrolled in classes
• Has not yet graduated or officially transferred to another college
• Has taken courses at the College (full-time or part-time) or pursued undergraduate, certificate, professional, adult education, GED, or distance learning courses
• Is not enrolled in a class, semester, or term but has a continued relationship with TSC. If a student’s enrollment lapses for more than one year, the student is still subject to disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct if the student intends to resume enrollment at TSC at any time. Where the word student is used, it is implied that the same applies or is afforded to a student organization unless specified otherwise

Student Organization

Any number of persons or groups who are currently registered or recognized by an official TSC department, program, or office, including, but not limited to, student organizations, sports clubs, honor societies, and intramural teams.

TSC Community

Includes any person who is a faculty, staff, student, alumni, or affiliate of TSC.

TSC Official 

Includes any person employed by TSC and/or who performs assigned administrative, educational, instructional, or professional responsibilities.

TSC Campus

Includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in possession of or owned, used, leased, or controlled by TSC.

The President of TSC is ultimately responsible for the administration of the Student Code of Conduct and all judicial processes for all students at the College.

Administrative authority and responsibility for disciplinary policies and procedures is delegated to the Vice President for Student Affairs. Within the Division of Student Affairs, direct supervisory jurisdiction of disciplinary matters involving violations of the Student Code of Conduct is assumed by the Chief Conduct Officer and Conduct Coordinator (Conduct Officer).

In some cases, where it is deemed formal disciplinary charges are not in the best educational interest of the student or student organization for student learning, and the student or student organization does not pose a threat or harm to oneself, another person, or the TSC community, the Dean of Student Services or designee reserves the right to refer the behavioral matter through a behavioral intervention program or for mediation, rather than formal disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct.

In addition, there are specific circumstances where a student’s behavior may be a result of psychological/ medical reasons. Under these conditions, it is in the best interest and safety of the student and the College community to assist the student by enacting the withdrawal for psychological/medical reasons process, which considers the welfare and mental well-being of the student first. The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee shall reserve the right to enact the process established for handling behaviors resulting from psychological/medical reasons rather than the disciplinary process.

TSC reserves the right to take disciplinary action against any student or student organizations for behaviors that occur at TSC, during TSC-sanctioned activities, or for off-campus conduct that may adversely affect the TSC community. For violations that do not occur on TSC property, action will be considered to ensure the safety or integrity of the entire campus community.

Disciplinary action may be initiated by TSC through the Student Conduct office, and sanctions imposed against any student or student organization found responsible for committing the following prohibited forms of conduct:

Academic Dishonesty

Plagiarism

Representing the words or ideas of another as one’s own in any academic exercise without providing proper documentation of the source.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Copying information word for word from a source without using quotation marks and giving proper acknowledgment by way of footnote, endnote, or inner-textual note
• Paraphrasing or putting into one’s own words information from a source without providing proper acknowledgment or citation
• Reproducing, without proper citation, any form of work of another person, such as a musical phrase, a proof, experimental data, laboratory report, graphics design, or computer code. Taking credit for work not done

Artificial Intelligence

Tallahassee State College recognizes the potential of deep learning software, such as ChatGPT, Dall-E, Midjourney, etc., as a valuable tool for supporting the achievement of learning outcomes in college courses. When used appropriately in conjunction with a student's critical thinking and problem-solving skills, these technologies can enhance the educational experience. However, it is imperative to avoid plagiarism by providing proper attribution (citation) when incorporating ideas, wording, or other materials from these programs.

The utilization of these materials will vary across courses. Additional information will be provided by your instructor on the course syllabus.

Cheating

The use or attempt to use unauthorized study aids, materials, or information in any academic exercise.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Copying from another student’s examination, research paper, case write-up, lab report, homework assignment, computer program, or other academic assignment or exam
• Possessing or using unauthorized notes, text, or other aids during an examination, quiz, or other assignment
• Looking at someone else’s exam before or during an examination
• Handing in the same paper for more than one course without the explicit permission of the instructors
• Possessing or using an electronic device that contains unauthorized information for a test or assignment, such as programming one’s computer or calculator to gain an unfair advantage
• Soliciting, obtaining, possessing, or providing to another person an exam or portions of an exam prior or subsequent to the administration of the exam
• Talking, whispering, or using a cell phone during an exam for the purpose of obtaining answers to questions

Unauthorized Collaboration

Working with other students without the instructor’s permission in preparing and presenting any work or assignments or otherwise failing to abide by the instructor’s rules governing the academic exercise where the expectation is that the work to be completed is an individual and independent effort.

Academic Fabrication

The intentional and unauthorized falsification, misrepresentation, or invention of any information, data, or citation in any academic exercise.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Falsifying or altering the data collected in the conduct of research
• Making up a source as a citation in an assignment or citing a source one did not use
• Violations of ethics and standards of practice in professional programs (e.g., Nursing, Dental Hygiene)
• Attempting to deceive the instructor or testing agency by creating, altering, or resubmitting scores for assignments, tests, quizzes, or placement exams
• Stating an opinion as a scientifically proven fact

Academic Dishonesty Facilitation

Intentionally or knowingly assisting any person in the commission of an academic integrity violation.

Academic Misrepresentation Falsification

Intentionally engaging in deceptive practices and misusing one’s relationship with the College to gain an unfair advantage in the admissions process, access to programs and facilities, employment opportunities, and any academic exercise.

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Arranging for another student to substitute for oneself during an examination session or in the completion of coursework
• Falsifying, misusing, omitting, or tampering with official academic college information or documents in any form, including written, oral or electronic, including test scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, or statements of purpose to gain initial or continued access to the College’s programs, facilities or of another agency or educational institution
• Altering, changing, forging, or misusing academic records or any official College form
• Causing any false information to be presented at an academic proceeding or intentionally destroying evidence important to an academic proceeding
• Reporting an academic integrity violation known to be false
• Misrepresenting or falsifying class attendance for that of another student. This includes signing an attendance sheet for a student who was not present in class

Academically Dishonest Acts

Acts that undermine the fundamental values of a community of learners fall outside of the more specific academic integrity violations described above.

Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Purchasing a pre-written paper through a mail-order service
• Selling or attempting to distribute educational materials, examinations, class notes, or other academic assignments obtained from or for a TSC course or instructor for personal gain. This does not include the resale of textbooks
• Selling, loaning, or otherwise attempting to distribute educational materials, examinations, class notes, or other academic assignments to others for the purpose of cheating, plagiarism, or other academically dishonest acts
• Intentionally missing an examination or assignment deadline to gain an unfair advantage
• Stealing or attempting to steal an examination or answer key. - Infringing upon the right of other students to fair and equal access to any library materials and comparable or related academic resources
• Attempting to prevent access by other users to the College’s computer system and its resources, degrade its system performance, or copy or destroy files or programs without consent
• Offering bribes (e.g., monetary remuneration, gifts, or favors) to College officials in exchange for special consideration, waiver of procedures, or change of grade on an assignment or course

Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco

Alcohol

Possession, purchase, consumption, distribution, sale or supply, or use of alcohol in open or closed containers, regardless of if empty or decorative in nature, on any TSC property, grounds, facilities, athletics fields, or as part of any College’s activities or College-sponsored event.

Operating a motor vehicle on TSC grounds or property while consuming or under the influence of alcohol is prohibited.

Public Intoxication

Public intoxication on any campus property is expressly prohibited. Those conditions considered to indicate intoxication include but are not limited to affected manner or disposition, speech, muscular movements, general appearance, or behavior as apparent to the observer.

Drugs

Possession, purchase, consumption, distribution, sale, supply, or use of illegal drugs, a substance controlled under federal or state law, or prescription drugs is expressly prohibited, as is the possession or display of drug paraphernalia.

Operating a motor vehicle on TSC grounds or property while using or under the influence of an illegal drug or substance controlled under federal or state law is prohibited.

Smoking and Tobacco Products

The College prohibits the use of all smoking, tobacco, and electronic smoking products, which includes any product containing or delivering tobacco, nicotine, or any other substance intended for consumption that can be used by a person in any manner for the purpose of inhaling vapor or aerosol. This includes any such device, whether manufactured, distributed, marketed, or sold as an e-cigarette, e-cigar, e-pipe, hookah, or vape pen, or under any other product name in facilities owned or operated by the College. All facilities (buildings and grounds) owned or operated by the College are designated as nonsmoking areas.

Children on Campus

In accordance with TSC District Board of Trustees Policy 03-19, students may not bring children to classes or other instructional environments or leave children unattended on campus. A TSC student may bring children to designated areas of campus as long as the children are not disruptive and are at all times attended by an adult who is a TSC student.

Computer Misuse

All uses of College IT resources are subject to applicable rules, policies, and procedures of the College and/or governing boards, as well as Florida Statutes governing computer fraud, misuse of state equipment resources, public information, and related criminal offenses.

Unauthorized access, entry, or use of a computer, computer system, network, software, password, account, or data is prohibited. Users may not use computer programs or devices to intercept or decode passwords or similar access control information. If security gaps are observed, they should be reported to the appropriate system administrators. Intentional damage or disabling of computer systems, networks, or software without authorization is prohibited. Unauthorized copying, downloading, sharing, or distribution of computer software, data, music files, or any other forms of protected and/ or copyrighted material, data, or files is not allowed. Unauthorized use of College computing resources to generate or access obscene material, including pornography, as defined by Florida or federal law, and acceptable community standards, is deemed as creating a hostile work and/or educational environment.

Cyberbullying

Any form of bullying, harassment, teasing, or threats toward any student with regard to race, ethnicity, gender, physical condition, mental condition, emotional condition, popularity, sexual orientation, weight, or appearance will not be tolerated. This includes communication via text, email, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, or any other social media site, blog, or other web-based forms of communication. The College categorically denounces hate speech in any form.

Disruptive or Disorderly Conduct

Behavior that disrupts, impairs, interferes with, or obstructs the orderly conduct, processes, and functions within an academic classroom, testing center, academic computing lab, or other laboratory is not permitted. This includes interfering with the academic mission of TSC or individual classrooms or interfering with an instructor’s or lab/internship supervisor’s role to carry out the normal academic or educational functions of his/her classroom, laboratory, and/ or field internship location, including teaching, research, and service. This also includes the ability of other students to obtain or benefit from the instruction or educational service.

Students engaged in activities creating a disturbance that interferes with the normal activities of a class, or the campus may be required to relocate. Participation in a campus demonstration that disrupts the normal operations and infringes on the rights of other members of the TSC community, leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities within any campus building or area, an intentional obstruction that unreasonably interferes with freedom of movement, either pedestrian or vehicular.

Endangerment

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Physical violence, assault, or force toward another person or group
• Endangering or threatening the mental or physical health, safety, or well-being of another person or group
• Tampering with any elevator, wiring, plumbing, or other College equipment that could endanger oneself or others
• Behavior of a reckless nature that creates a danger to the safety of persons or property
• Interference with the freedom of another person or group to move about in a lawful manner
• Obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on TSC premises or at TSC-sponsored or supervised functions. This includes the affixing or the placement of bikes or motor vehicles to chairs, trees, and/or walkways or placing/parking these items at the entrances and exits to buildings or in disabled-accessible areas
• Trespass or Unauthorized Entry/Access Unauthorized entry or presence in any TSC building, office, room, class, laboratory, athletic field, or other location

Failure to Comply

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Failure to comply with a request or directive of a TSC official (e.g., instructor, staff member, administrator, or any law enforcement official in the performance of their duty
• Failure to comply with the summons, decision, request to contact the Conduct Office within the specified period of time, sanctions or conditions rendered by a Conduct Officer or authorized judicial body
• Failure to identify oneself and/or produce identification upon request by a TSC official (e.g., instructor, staff, administrator) or any law enforcement official in the performance of his/her duty. Students are required to carry and present their TSC identification card when requested by authorized College officials
• Failure to comply with traffic rules and parking regulations in effect for the TSC campus
• Failure to comply with College policies, rules, and regulations concerning the registration of campus activities, student organizations, the use of College facilities, and public assembly
• Failure to comply with posted policies, rules, and regulations governing activities in a facility, room, lounge, or other area
• Failure to comply with any Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guidelines, Federal or State Guidelines, or other Emergency Orders enforced at the time as required to be on any of the college campuses or instructional sites

Falsification, Fraud, False Testimony (Non-Academic)

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Providing false or misleading information and/or withholding or omitting information on non-academic College documents or records, including, but not limited to, admissions applications, financial aid documents, student identification, computer records, and other official documents
• Knowingly providing false or misleading information to or filing a report with a TSC official, office, or judicial body which results in or may result in the initiation of law enforcement, disciplinary, administrative, criminal, or legal action by the College
• Providing false or misleading testimony during a disciplinary proceeding
• Permitting another person to use one’s TSC identification
• Use of another person’s TSC identification
• Impersonation or misrepresentation, including acting on behalf of another person, group, or TSC without proper authorization and consent. Tampering with the election of the Student Government Association or any TSC-recognized student organization. Any other acts of falsification/ fraud/false testimony are not academic in nature

Fire and Emergency Safety

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Action(s) that result in a fire or explosion
• Inappropriate activation of any emergency warning equipment or the false reporting of any emergency
• Removing, damaging, interfering, or tampering with fire safety or other emergency warning equipment, including smoke detectors, extinguishers, sprinklers, and fire and door alarms
• Failure to evacuate a TSC building or facility when a fire alarm is sounded or directed to do so by a TSC official, law enforcement, or emergency service officer
• Interfering with the carrying out of emergency response and/or evacuation procedures
• Items placed or hung from or blocking sprinklers or smoke detectors or items placed in an area that poses a fire hazard or interfere with evacuation procedures

Food or Beverage in Restricted Areas

Food and beverages in classrooms are prohibited except in cases where special events have been approved by the President or designee. Food or beverages in the Student Union lounge is prohibited except in cases where special events have been approved by the President or designee. Food or beverages are not permitted in any facility, room, or location where a posted sign prohibits them.

Gambling

Participation in or offering games of chance for money or other gain is in violation of the laws of the State of Florida.

Harassment and Threats

Harassment is prohibited at TSC. Harassment involves a course of conduct (including, but not limited to, physical contact, verbal, graphic, written, or electronic communication) directed at a person that serves no legitimate purpose but to cause emotional distress or that creates an intimidating, hostile, threatening, harmful or fearful environment for another person, specific student and/or group. Conduct not of a sexual nature, regardless of if via physical, verbal, graphic, written, or electronic communication, that threatens, harms, intimidates, or creates fear for a judicial body or persons involved in disciplinary processes (e.g., witness, victim, reporting individual), is not tolerated. This includes actions via texting, e-mail, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media sites, blogs, or other web-based forms of communication.

Hazing

Hazing is prohibited at TSC pursuant to Florida Statutes 1006.63. All organizations and individuals are prohibited from engaging in any form of hazing either on or off campus.

In accordance with Florida Statute 1006.63, Hazing is defined as:

• Any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes including, but not limited to, initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution
• Any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes including, but not limited to:
  • Initiation into any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution;
  • Admission into any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution;
  • Affiliation with any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution; or
  • The perpetuation or furtherance of a tradition or ritual of any organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution

Furthermore, the term includes, but is not limited to:

• Pressuring or coercing the student into violating state or federal law, any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance, or other substance, or other forced physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the student
• Any activity that would subject the student to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment, or other forced activity that could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the student. The term does not include customary athletic events or other similar contexts or competitions or any activity or conduct that furthers a legal and legitimate objective

Penalties for violation of this policy shall be administered in accordance with TSC Policy 10-12 Student Code of Conduct; subject, however, to any limitations or additional penalties contained in FS 1006.63 (2)(3)(4)(5)(6). Such penalties at TSC may include the imposition of fines, the withholding of diplomas or transcripts pending compliance with the rules or pending payment of fines, and the imposition of probation, suspension, or expulsion from the college. In the case of an organization or club at TSC which authorizes hazing in blatant disregard of such rules, penalties may also include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on campus property or to otherwise operate under the sanction of the institution. All penalties imposed under the authority of this subsection shall be in addition to any penalty imposed for violation of any of the state's criminal laws or for violation of any other rule of the institution to which the violator may be subject.

Indecent or Obscene Behavior

Obscene, lewd, or indecent behaviors, conduct, gestures, or expressions reasonably interpreted as offensive to others or that create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive campus, educational or working environment for another person or group are not tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, exposure of sexual organs, urination in public, voyeurism, and/ or unwanted, unwelcome, inappropriate, or irrelevant behavior.

Littering

Improperly dispersing litter, in any form or from any point, on TSC grounds or property, or facility, including, but not limited to, the dispensing of tobacco waste products, cigarette remnants, flyers, cans, or bottles, is prohibited. Throwing or dropping any object or material from a College building is prohibited.

Stalking

Stalking is defined as activities occurring on more than one occasion that collectively causes emotional distress in the victim and/or threaten their safety, mental health, physical well-being, general privacy, or ability to perform daily life or work activities.

Behaviors and activities may include, but are not limited to:

• Nonconsensual communication, including face-to-face, telephone calls, voice messages, e-mail, written letters/ notes, unwanted gifts, or Web-based communications (e.g., social media, etc.)
• Repeated threatening or obscene gestures
• Pursuing or following
• Electronic or any form of surveillance and/or other types of nonconsensual observation or staring

Theft

Unauthorized use or possession of, taking, or attempting to take personal or public property or of another person or entity.

Unauthorized Electronic or Digital Recordings

Each student in a community college or state college is subject to federal and state law, respective county and municipal ordinances, and all rules and regulations of the institution's State Board of Education or Board of Trustees. The College shall enforce the provisions of Section 1006.62, Florida Statutes.

This includes but is not limited to the following:

• Unauthorized recording of a faculty member or invited speaker or personal conversations, meetings, or activities
• Taking pictures of another student or person in the gym, lounge space, locker room, classroom, office, common area, or restroom

Vandalism

Damage, destruction, or defacing property of another person, group, or TSC is prohibited.

Weapons, Firearms, Fireworks, Explosives, and Dangerous Chemicals

The possession, storage, display, or discharge of firearms, fireworks, explosives, ammunition, dangerous chemicals, and/or any object or dangerous substance in any way, including, but not limited to, knives, firearms, blackjacks, “chukka” sticks, or containers of noxious material.

• Possession of realistic replicas of weapons or explosives is not allowed on TSC campus
• Possession of any firearm is not allowed on TSC campus, even with a concealed weapons permit

Other Violations

Violations of any other policy, rule, or regulation of TSC may also be adjudicated through the Student Conduct Office. Violations of any municipal or county ordinance, the law of the State of Florida, or the law of the United States.

For more information, visit go.boarddocs.com.

In accordance with TSC Board Policy (03.38), TSC recognizes that the opinions expressed by organizations, groups, or individuals using TSC facilities do not necessarily reflect the position of TSC or its students, faculty, and staff. TSC abides by Florida Statute 1004.097, Campus Free Expression Act, for the right to free expression on campus. The College affirms its commitment to freedom of speech, assembly, and expression even though the language or ideas of those seeking a venue for free expression may contradict the College’s ideals and policies or the personal views of TSC employees and students. TSC abides by Florida Statute 1004.097, Campus Free Expression Act, for the right to free expression on campus.

Subject to the provisions of this section, the Student Code of Conduct may be applied to behavior conducted online, via email, and/or other electronic media. Blogs, web postings, chats, and social networking sites are in the public sphere and are not private.

Student and Faculty Right to Free Speech Activities

Expressive activities are protected under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution and Art. I of the State Constitution include, but are not limited to, any lawful oral or written communication of ideas, including all forms of peaceful assembly, protests, and speeches; distributing literature; carrying signs; circulating petitions; faculty research, lectures, writings, and commentary, whether published or unpublished; and the recording and publication, including the Internet publication, of video or audio recorded in outdoor areas of campus. Expressive activities protected by this section do not include defamatory or commercial speech, true threats, incitement, fraud, or any other non-protected speech.

A Florida College System institution or a state university may not prohibit students, faculty, or staff from participating in expressive activities. A person whose protected expressive rights were violated by the public institution of higher education may bring suit against such institution to recover monetary damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees.

Notwithstanding s. 934.03 and subject to the protections provided in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, 20 U.S.C. s. 1232g and ss. 1002.22 and 1002.225, a student may record video or audio of class lectures for their own personal, educational use, in connection with a complaint to the public institution of higher education where the recording was made, or as evidence in, or in preparation for, a criminal or civil proceeding. A recorded lecture may not be published without the consent of the lecturer.

A cause of action may be filed against a person who publishes video and audio recorded in a classroom in violation of these purposes. A person injured by the publication of such a recording without the lecturer’s consent can seek declaratory or injunctive relief and may be entitled to damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees. Faculty research, lectures, writing, and commentary are protected expressive activities regardless of publication status.

Guiding Principles on Freedom of Expression

TSC Board Policy 8125, Freedom of Expression recognizes the primary function of an institution of higher education is the discovery, improvement, transmission, and dissemination of knowledge by means of research, teaching, discussion, and debate. To fulfill this function, the Board strives to ensure the fullest degree of intellectual freedom and free expression at the College. The opinions expressed by organizations, groups, or individuals using College facilities do not necessarily reflect the position of the College, or its students or employees. The Board affirms its commitment to freedom of speech, assembly, and expression even though the language or ideas of those seeking a venue for free expression may contradict the Board’s ideals and policies or the personal views of College employees and students. By placing reasonable limitations on time, place, and manner of speech, the College does not take a position on the content or viewpoint of the expression, but rather allows for a diversity of viewpoints to be expressed in an academic setting.

Students are encouraged to review the full board policy on freedom of expression. The statements below are only guidelines to help ensure a safe, civil, and respectful learning environment for all.

• TSC’s policies on demonstrations are impartial regarding content, but the college may intervene if there is a significant threat or disruption.
• Specific campus areas may be off-limits for safety and security reasons.
• Activities that are lawful and do not infringe on rights or damage property are permitted.
• Counter-demonstrations are allowed, but the rights of others must be respected.

Individuals and/or groups participating in protests on and off-campus do not reflect the views of the college and all students are expected to comply with the same laws and the TSC Code of Student Conduct. Examples of conduct that is not permitted, including, but not limited to:  

• Blocking access to campus facilities or events.
• Obstructing pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or restricting the free movement of people on university property.
• Using bullhorns or other loud sound devices in a manner that disrupts academic or administrative activities.
• Engaging in theft, vandalism, loitering, or property damage.
• Blocking doorways and obstructing passage into or out of buildings.
• Refusing to leave a building or area that is closed, or after being directed to do so by a college official performing their duties.
• Preventing students from hearing lectures or taking exams.
• Disrupting lectures by shouting or causing significant interruptions.

Counter- Protests: 
Protests, demonstrations, or other acts of free expression on campus may lead to counter-protests or other forms of expression. When this happens, the rights of all parties will be upheld in accordance with TSC policies and this guidance. Sometimes, a separate area may be designated for those who wish to counter-protest.

Civil Disobedience: 

Some groups employ civil disobedience—intentional, nonviolent unlawful actions—as a form of protest. The First Amendment does not protect civil disobedience. If you choose this method to draw attention to your cause, be prepared for potential consequences, including arrest and disciplinary actions by the school.

Safety and Guidance 

• Students should consult with the Dean of Student Services and Student Life staff regarding any demonstration activities.
• The TSC Police Department can provide assistance with safety and security procedures.
• Organizers should inform all attendees about TSC policies, including the Code of Student Conduct and Facilities use rules.

• Stay aware of your surroundings and prioritize your safety. 
• Avoid physical contact.  
• Have a plan in place and communicate it to someone who is not attending in case something unexpected should happen during the demonstration (e.g., arrest, illness). 

A student or student organization charged with a violation of the Student Code of Conduct has the right to:

• Receive timely written notice that includes the allegations to be investigated, the citation to the specific provision of the code of conduct at issue, the process to be used in determining whether a violation has occurred and associated rights, and the date, time, and location of the disciplinary proceeding
• The written notice is considered timely if it is provided at least seven business days before the disciplinary proceeding and may be provided by delivery to the student’s institutional e-mail address and if the student is under 18 years of age, to the student’s parent or to the student organization’s e-mail address
• The right to a presumption that no violation occurred. The institution is burdened to prove, by a preponderance of evidence, that a violation has occurred. The preponderance of the evidence means that the information presented supports the findings that it is more likely than not that the violation of the code of conduct was committed by the student or student organization
• The right against self-incrimination and the right to remain silent. Such silence may not be used against the student or student organization. However, absent such testimony, the judicial body may lend more weight to written documents and testimony of witnesses. This protection from self-incrimination does not extend to student organizations
• An impartial hearing officer
• A designated opportunity to review all information in her/ his judicial file prior to a hearing. The 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
• At least five (5) business days before the disciplinary proceeding, the institution or university must provide the student or student organization with a listing of all known witnesses that have provided or will provide information against the student or student organization; and all known information relating to the allegation, including inculpatory and exculpatory information
• An opportunity to present relevant evidence and information on his/her behalf, including presenting and questioning witnesses and/or signed written statements, except in cases where the student waives his/her right or chooses a summary resolution
• Cross-examine witnesses as circumstances permit, except where the student has waived his/her right or opted for a summary resolution. Appropriate witnesses may be called by the College to all formal hearings. Those witnesses who appear may be cross-examined by the charged student in an appropriate format determined by the Conduct Officer or judicial body. If called witnesses do not appear, their written and signed statements, if submitted, will be considered by the judicial body
• The right to an advisor or advocate who may not serve in any other role, including as an investigator, decider of fact, hearing officer, member of a committee or panel convened to hear or decide the charge, or any appeal
• The right to have an advisor, advocate, or legal representative present at the student’s or student organization’s own expense at any formal or informal proceeding. Such a person may directly participate in all aspects of the proceeding, including the presentation of relevant information and questioning of witnesses
• The right to appeal the hearing officer's final decision, or any committee or panel, directly to the vice president of student affairs or any other senior administrator designated by the code of conduct, who must hear the appeal and render a final decision. The vice president of student affairs or a person designated by the code of conduct to hear the appeal may not have directly participated in any other proceeding related to the charged violation
• The right to an accurate and complete record of every disciplinary proceeding relating to the charged violation of the code, including a record of any appeal, to be made, preserved, and available for copying upon request by the charged student or student organization
• Notification of the decision of the hearing officer in writing within (5) days of the hearing. All hearing decisions will be communicated in writing to the charged student, including the hearing decision, sanctions imposed (if applicable), and the right to appeal
• Request an appeal review of the decision, in writing, within five (5) business days of the receipt of the hearing decision (see Appeals)

Filling Time

Reports must be filed with Student Conduct Office within ninety (90) calendar days of the incident or knowledge about the incident. However, TSC reserves the right to exercise professional discretion to extend this filing time in cases of harassment, endangerment, stalking, or other behaviors that pose a threat to the safety, welfare, or well-being of another person or the TSC community or where the delay is related to victimization issues.

Victim rights apply to the following types of cases:

• Sexual misconduct
• Endangerment/acts of violence
• Harassment
• Stalking
• Hazing
• Property (damage) – restitution portion of outcome only
• Property (theft) – restitution portion of outcome only

Victim Rights

• To have an adviser of the alleged victim’s choice accompany him/her when presenting information to the judicial body and to any other relevant meetings held throughout the disciplinary process
• To submit a victim impact statement to the judicial body. This information will be used only in the sanctioning phase of deliberations if the charged student is found responsible for the charge(s)
• To have unrelated past behavior excluded from the hearing. The Conduct Officer or chair of the judicial body will decide if such information is unrelated
• To submit questions to the judicial body. The judicial body will then consider posing those questions to the charged student
• To 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 the Conduct Officer or chair of the judicial body
• To be present throughout the entire hearing or portions thereof. Determination on this matter will be made by the Conduct Officer or chair of the judicial body
• To be notified of the disciplinary outcome and appeals outcome
• To appeal the hearing decision on the basis outlined in Victim’s Appellate Process section

Judicial Bodies and Hearing Forms

Generally, students and student organizations may choose which judicial forum and judicial body they would like to conduct their disciplinary case. However, the Conduct Officer reserves the right to choose the appropriate hearing forum and body or may determine that mediation, a behavioral intervention program, or another approved College process is best rather than formal disciplinary action.

Judicial Body

Any person or persons (e.g., Conduct Officer, Conduct Review Board) authorized by the President or designee to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and to determine the imposition of sanctions.

Judicial Hearing Forums

There are two types of forums provided by this code, informal and formal.

INFORMAL HEARINGS (SUMMARY RESOLUTIONS)

Informal hearings or summary resolutions are for students choosing to accept responsibility for the alleged charge as presented. This may be mediation, a behavioral intervention program, or other approved College process is best, rather than formal disciplinary action. Informal hearings are not tape-recorded. Written decisions will serve as the official records of informal hearings.

SUMMARY RESOLUTION

Summary Resolutions are informal and conducted by the Conduct Officer or other authorized staff personnel in consultation with the Student Conduct Officer. A Summary Resolution is for the student who chooses to accept responsibility for his/ her actions and the charge(s) as presented. Students who choose a summary resolution automatically waive his/her right to have an adviser, cross-examine witnesses, and have five (5) business days before a hearing is held. There is no appeal from an Informal Resolution. If a student accepts responsibility for the violations of the Student Conduct Code, but the student and the Conduct Officer cannot agree on sanctions, the matter may be referred to the Conduct Review Board for a sanctions-only hearing.

FORMAL HEARINGS

• May require the Conduct Review Board (judicial body) to call appropriate witnesses to provide information in support of the charges
• Allow the presence of an advisor
• Will be tape-recorded. The recording will serve as the official record of the proceedings
• A formal disciplinary outcome letter will be sent to the student. If the alleged behavior and/or incident could be solved through mediation rather than formal disciplinary proceedings, the Conduct Officer, in consultation with all parties involved, may redirect the matter through mediation

Administrative Hearing

This hearing is formal and conducted by the Conduct Officer or other authorized hearing officer.

Conduct Review Board

This hearing is formal. This judicial body is comprised of the Student Conduct Officer or designee (chair/non-voting capacity), trained faculty and staff members, and one student appointed by the Student Government Association.

In the case of sexual assault or any other Title IX-related violation, the hearing body may be comprised of the Conduct Officer or designee or one staff member appointed by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee.

BURDEN OF PROOF

The standard used in all disciplinary cases is “preponderance of evidence.” The term means that evidence considered as a whole indicates the fact sought to be proved more probable or that it is more likely than not that the alleged behavior did violate the Student Code of Conduct. The burden of proof will be such that the charged student will not be presumed responsible. Their responsibility must be established to the judicial body's satisfaction by the evidence's preponderance. The burden of proof for disciplinary hearings always rests with the College.

The penalties for academic dishonesty violations may include reprimand, reduction of grade, denial of academic credit, invalidation of college credit or the degree based upon such credit, probation, suspension, or expulsion. In addition to any other penalties that may be imposed, the individual or student may be denied admission or further registration. The College may invalidate academic credit for work completed by a student and may invalidate or revoke the degree based upon such credit if it is determined that the student has made false, fraudulent, or incomplete statements in the application or accompanying documents or statements in connection with, or supplemental to, the application for admission to or graduation from the College.

If the instructor determines that an act of academic dishonesty has occurred, the instructor may:

• Issue a verbal or written warning
• Require the student to resubmit the work/ assignment
• Require the student to retake a quiz or examination
• Assess a lower grade on the assignment or examination
• Issue a grade of zero (0) on the assignment, lab work, internship, or examination; and/or a failing grade for the course, lab, or internship

FIRST OFFENSE

The academic misconduct will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. The Conduct Officer shall record and maintain these reports in a confidential file. The Conduct Officer shall also send a letter to the student confirming this action and outlining the consequences of subsequent offenses. The student will also be enrolled in the Academic Integrity Module through Distance Learning, which must be completed with a passing grade of 80%.

SECOND OFFENSE

The academic misconduct will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. Formal disciplinary action will be taken by the Office of Student Conduct in accordance with this Code and procedures established by the College for adjudicating disciplinary cases.

THIRD OFFENSE

The academic misconduct will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. Formal disciplinary action will be taken by the Office of Student Conduct in accordance with this Code and procedures established by the College for adjudicating disciplinary cases. Sanctions imposed through a disciplinary hearing for a third offense will result in suspension from TSC for a minimum of one (1) academic semester.

In all academic misconduct cases described above, students may contest the charges and/or the sanctions and request a formal conduct hearing by notifying the Student Conduct Officer in writing within three Instructional Days of receiving the notification of the charges and sanctions.

A decision reached by the Conduct Review Board or a sanction imposed by the Conduct Officer may be appealed in accordance with the policies for appeals laid out in the Appeals section.

Upon the academic misconduct case conclusion, the Conduct Officer will notify the faculty member who reported the misconduct of the outcome of the case, including classroom sanctions and any other sanction that might impact the student’s experience in their class.

Initiating Charges

Any person may request a review of the alleged actions of a student, which may violate the TSC Student Code of Conduct or federal or state law. Determination of whether formal charges will be filed is at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee with oversight for the disciplinary process.

An initial review will be done by the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with students, faculty, staff, and visitors exhibiting concerning behaviors. BIT is designed to receive reports of concerning behaviors through TSC’s existing processes; provide for multi-disciplinary consideration and assessment of reported concerning behaviors; provide recommended interventions to responsible parties, including but not limited to Human Resources or Student Conduct.

A review for possible charges may be initiated by:

• A TSC Police Department report or report from another law enforcement agency
• Any person filing an incident report with TSC campus police or requesting that a report from another law enforcement agency be sent to Student Conduct Office will be assessed by the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT). The TSC Police Department will forward all incident reports involving the conduct of students to the Student Conduct Office
• Any faculty, staff, student, or other individual providing a written statement (not anonymous) to Student Conduct Office

The Conduct Officer shall be responsible for determining whether the documentation is sufficient to warrant formal disciplinary charges. The 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. If the Conduct Officer determines that documentation is insufficient or there are no grounds to file charges on behalf of TSC, no charges will be filed, and the individual initiating the report will be notified, in writing, as to the reason why the documentation is insufficient to file charges. In some cases, the Conduct Officer may determine that it is in the interest of the student’s academic and social development for student learning that the case is referred to mediation, a behavioral intervention program, or interi

Filing Time

Reports must be filed with Student Conduct Office within ninety (90) calendar days of the incident or knowledge about the incident. However, TSC reserves the right to exercise professional discretion to extend this filing time in cases of harassment, endangerment, stalking, or other behaviors that pose a threat to the safety, welfare, or well-being of another person or the TSC community or where the delay is related to victimization issues.

Notice of Changes

The notice given to any student charged with a violation of the Student Code of Conduct will include the following:

• Notice of charge, including specific code charge(s) and a brief description of the alleged offense(s) within ten (10) business days from receipt of an incident report or written statement. Extended time may be required if further investigation or additional documentation is required to substantiate initiating disciplinary charges
• Except in cases involving interim suspension, the charged student will be provided an opportunity to attend an information session during which the student may review all materials to be used in his/her case, receive information regarding his/ her due process rights and procedures used in a disciplinary hearing, and have an opportunity to select the forum in which the case will be heard. In addition, the student will receive information regarding the resources available to the student in preparation for his or her disciplinary case

If a student fails to respond to a request to schedule an information session and/or attend a scheduled information session and/ or ten (10) business days have expired since the date of the charge letter, the student waives his/her right to an information session, and the Conduct Officer will select a hearing forum for the student and schedule a hearing date in the student’s absence. The Conduct Officer may extend the time for scheduling an information session or reschedule a hearing where a student can prove that an extenuating circumstance prevented him or her from responding to the charge letter by the deadline date.

Information Session

During the information session, the student/ student organization will be provided with the following:

• A clear and complete description of the Student Code of Conduct charges and a description of the allegations upon which the charge is based
• Information related to the student’s rights and responsibilities and preparation for the disciplinary hearing
• An opportunity to review relevant information in his/her disciplinary file that will be used during the disciplinary hearing

The 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:

• The right to accept responsibility for all charges and enter into a summary resolution or the right to dispute the allegation and request a formal hearing. If the student or student organization accepts the charges as presented, takes responsibility for the violation, and agrees to a summary resolution by the Conduct Officer, the Conduct Officer will provide the appropriate sanction(s), in writing, to the student at that time or within ten (10) business days from the summary resolution. The ground for an appeal for cases resolved through summary resolution is limited solely on the basis that the severity of the sanction is disproportionate to the nature of the offense
• If the student or student organization does not accept responsibility or disagrees with the allegation, a formal hearing shall be conducted on the matter

Hearing Notification

Charged students requesting a formal hearing shall be notified at least five (5) business days prior to a formal hearing unless the student waives his/her right and requests that the hearing occur before five business days have passed. Notice shall include the date, time, and location for the hearing.

If the charged student fails to appear at the scheduled hearing and provides adequate written notice before the scheduled hearing, the hearing will be held in the student’s absence. No student may be found responsible for a violation of the student conduct code solely because the student failed to appear before a judicial body. The judicial body's decision will be determined based on all the documentation and testimony presented at the hearing.

Scope of Inquiry

A student’s academic and previous disciplinary record (if applicable) cannot be considered when determining whether the charged student has violated the Student Code of Conduct. However, after a student is found responsible for violating the code, any academic and previous disciplinary record may be considered when determining the appropriate educational sanction(s).

Disciplinary Consolidations

Whenever possible, in cases where more than one student is charged with an alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct and the student’s conduct arose out of the same incident(s), each case should be heard by the same judicial body.

In cases where more than one student is charged with an alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct, and the student’s conduct arose out of the same incident(s), a single hearing may be held for all the students charged. Such students may request their case be consolidated with the others or separated from others.

The Conduct Officer shall make determinations regarding consolidation with the charged students and, if necessary, with the party filing the formal complaint. The Conduct Officer shall make the final decision on all consolidations.

In instances where a student has multiple Code of Conduct violations in a two-year period, the violations will be considered cumulative and result in higher level or formal disciplinary action and educational sanctions or interventions as follows:

First Conduct Violation

The academic misconduct will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. The Conduct Officer shall record and maintain these reports in a confidential file. Informal disciplinary action may be taken (depending on the nature of the violation) by the Office of Student Conduct in accordance with this Code and procedures established by the College for adjudicating disciplinary cases.

Second Conduct Violation

The academic misconduct will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. Formal disciplinary action may be taken by the Office of Student Conduct in accordance with this Code and procedures established by the College for adjudicating disciplinary cases.

Third Conduct Violation

The academic misconduct will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. Formal disciplinary action will be taken by the Office of Student Conduct in accordance with this Code and procedures established by the College for adjudicating disciplinary cases. Sanctions imposed through a disciplinary hearing for a third offense may result in suspension from TSC for a minimum of one (1) academic semester.

Role of the Conduct Officer

The role of the Conduct Officer when presiding over a formal hearing will be to:

• Ensure a fair and impartial hearing and that all of the student’s and/or victim‘s rights are protected pursuant to the Student Code of Conduct
• If an adviser is present, review the adviser’s role and limitations during the hearing as outlined in the section titled student rights
• Make all administrative decisions on matters relating to the conduct of the hearing, including matters regarding the admission of relevant evidence, testimony, and questions
• Ensure the student charged with a violation of the student code of conduct has the right to present questions to all witnesses in an orderly and respectful fashion. The Conduct Officer reserves the right to determine the method for delivery of questions to the witness by the student
• Maintain an orderly hearing and permit no person to be subjected to abusive treatment, intimidation, or harassment. The Conduct Officer, at his/her discretion, may remove anyone who refuses to be orderly and conduct him/herself in a manner conducive to a learning environment
• Administer an appropriate oath of truthful testimony to the charged student and all witnesses

All hearings are private and closed to the public. Formal hearings are taped via audio recording, and the audiotape will act as the official record of the hearing. The following procedures are applicable to formal hearings before all judicial bodies:

• Presentation of formal charges by the Conduct Officer (or chair of the Conduct Review Board).
• Administer an appropriate oath of honesty and truthful testimony to the charged student prior to testimony before the judicial body
• Opening statement by the charged student
• Questions directed to the charged student by the judicial body
• Administer an appropriate oath of honesty and truthful testimony to each witness prior to testimony before the judicial body

Presentation of witnesses by TSC, followed by questioning of those witnesses by the judicial body and the charged student. The Conduct Officer reserves the right to determine the relevance of the question. Witnesses are then dismissed. Witnesses other than the respondent may, at the discretion of the Conduct Officer, be excluded from the hearing during the testimony of other witnesses. Written statements may not be admitted into evidence unless signed by the witness and witnessed by a TSC official. An advance copy of written statements must be furnished to the respondent and judicial body.

Presentation of Evidence

Presentation of evidence and witnesses by the charged student, followed by questioning of those witnesses by the charged student and the judicial body. The Conduct Officer reserves the right to determine the relevance of the questions. Witnesses are then dismissed. Witnesses other than the charged student may, at the discretion of the Conduct Officer, be excluded from the hearing during the testimony of other witnesses.

Written statements may not be admitted into evidence unless signed by the witness and witnessed by a TSC official. An advance copy of written statements must be furnished to the respondent and judicial body.

Follow-up questions to the charged student. Closing statement by the student.

Adjournment of the Hearing

The Conduct Officer will exercise control over the hearing to avoid needless time consumption and prevent the harassment or intimidation of witnesses. The Conduct Officer has the right to make the appropriate revisions to the hearing procedure so long as the student’s rights are upheld and maintained. Any person, including the adviser, who disrupts a hearing or who fails to adhere to the rulings of a Conduct Officer may be excluded from the proceedings.

Deliberations

Deliberations are closed, except for members of the judicial body, and are not audiotaped. Responsibility is determined by the Conduct Officer or, in cases resolved by the Conduct Review Board, by a majority vote of

the judicial body members, except in cases involving expulsion. The vote and final decision of the judicial body, including the determination of responsibility and sanctions, if appropriate, are taped and become the official record of the hearing.

Cases involving expulsion must be unanimous. The vote and the final decision of the judicial body, including the determination of responsibility and the sanctions, if appropriate, are taped and become the official record of the hearing.

The accused student and victim shall be informed of the outcome of the disciplinary proceeding. Witnesses will not be notified of the outcome of the hearing. In cases of suspension or dismissal, the appropriate College officials will be notified in accordance with federal and state law.

Findings

Within seven (7) business days after the conclusion of deliberations, the judicial body shall provide a written outcome to the student, which includes:

• A summary of the evidence/finding of fact used to support its determination
• Its determination of the appropriate sanction(s)

Appeal

The student’s enrollment status shall remain unchanged pending TSC’s final decision in the matter except in cases where the Conduct Officer or designee determines that the safety, health, or general welfare of the student, any individual, or any part of TSC may be jeopardized. (see Appeals, Section 17)

One or more of the following interventions and educational sanctions may apply when a student or student organization is found responsible for violations of the Student Code of Conduct.

Warning

Verbal or written reprimand to the student or student organization that the student/ student organization has violated the Student Code of Conduct and that further violation of the code will result in more serious disciplinary action.

Educational Assignment

An educational assignment is a developmental task to positively contribute to the student’s well-being and/or the College community. Assignments may include but are not limited to attendance at educational workshops/ seminars, tutoring or support from learning centers (e.g., testing, writing, reading, or math labs), research projects, reflection papers, and essays, apology letters, meetings/ interviews with TSC or other officials, or planning and implementing educational programs. Any costs associated with participation in, or completion of educational assignments are the responsibility of the student.

Community Service

Completion of a specified number of hours of service to the College or local community.

Fine

Previously established and published fines may be imposed. Failure to pay all fines in full will result in the denial of a final grade report, diploma, and/or transcripts. All fines, except those established by Business Services, Admissions, and Enrollment Services, and Advising and Retention or the TSC Police Department, are to be used solely to support and provide educational programs to the TSC community regarding ethics, moral development, academic integrity, or other programs related to improving student learning.

Restitution

Restitution for loss or damages may be a part of any sanction and may include monetary compensation, property replacement, or services up to the amount of the damage, loss, or injury incurred. Restitution may also be in the form of work service to the person, group, or organization where the damage, loss, or injury occurred.

Campus Access Restrictions  

Termination of a student’s or student organization’s privilege to enter into and be near one or more campus areas, facilities, or buildings, or restriction from entering on TSC campus grounds in its entirety. Students will lose their privilege to enter campus grounds entirely if suspended or expulsed from TSC.

Academic Grade/Testing Sanctions

For academic dishonesty violations, the student, in addition to other approved sanctions, may be given a reduced grade, or zero or failing grade for the assignment or course, denial of academic credit, or invalidation of college credit or of the degree based upon such credit. (see Academic Misconduct Disciplinary Process and Procedures, Section 13)

Admission/Enrollment Revocation

A student may be denied admission or further registration at the College, and the College invalidate academic credit work done by a student and may invalidate or revoke the degree based upon such credit if it is determined that the student has made false, fraudulent, or incomplete statements in the application, residency declaration or accompanying documents or statements in connection with, or supplemental to, the application for admission to or graduation from the College.

Removal From Class  

Behavior that 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 students’ ability to obtain instruction will result in a withdrawal from that class without a refund or grade penalty.

No Contact Order

A 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, e-mail, telephone, or third parties.

Counseling Assessment

Referral for personal, mental, or academic assessment through Advising and Retention, Student Accessibility Services, other TSC counseling or other academic support services, or a certified/licensed health agency may be required for some cases where it is deemed the intervention may positively affect the student’s learning, behavioral modification and/or academic success. In cases of probation, deferred sanctions, suspension,

counseling assessment conditions that permit the student’s satisfactory completion of the probationary status or readmission to TSC will be specifically outlined in writing. Any costs associated with assessment/ evaluation or visit to a licensed health agency are the responsibility of the student.

Loss of College Privileges or Associations

Certain privileges or associations within the College are withdrawn for a specified period of time, not to exceed two (2) academic years. This includes but is not limited to removal from athletic events, denial of the privilege of participating in recreational/sports activities, and/or student organizations, holding office in an organization, or revocation of social function privileges for student organizations.

Disciplinary Behavior Probation (Individual Student)

A specified period of time during which a student has an opportunity to demonstrate his/her ability to be a responsible member of the TSC community. A student on Behavior Probation is prohibited from holding an office in a student organization or representing the College in any extracurricular activity or official function during the time of probation. The student may be required to complete additional educational activities and may be restricted from participating in certain specified events/ activities, entering certain facilities, classes, or offices, or contacting/ communicating (verbal, nonverbal, physical, or electronic) with specific individuals or groups. Any further violation of the Student Code of Conduct jeopardizes the individual student’s status with the College.

Disciplinary Behavior Probation (Student Organization)

A specified period of time during which a student organization has an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to be responsible members of the TSC community. A student organization may be required to complete additional educational activities and may be restricted from accessing organizational funds; participating in certain specified events/activities; entering certain facilities, classes, or offices; or contacting/ communicating (verbal, nonverbal, physical, or electronic) with specific individuals or groups. Any further violation of the Student Code of Conduct jeopardizes the student organization’s status with the College.

Deferred Suspension

A sanction of suspension may be deferred pending the successful completion of all educational assignments or other outlined sanctions specified as a condition of the deferred sanction. All sanctions must be completed by the specified deadline date to satisfy the conditions of the deferred sanction. If a student/student organization fails to complete all the sanctions as set forth for a deferred sanction, suspension from the College will automatically be enacted without further review. 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.

Suspension (Individual Student)

Separation of the student from TSC includes removal from academic enrollment, revocation of other privileges or activities, and the privilege to enter all TSC campuses for a period not to exceed two (2) years. Conditions that will permit the student’s readmission, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the College and student during the period of suspension will be directed to the Office of Student Conduct. Suspension (student organization). Separation of the student organization from TSC to include removal from and revocation of all privileges or activities for a period of time not to exceed two (2) years. Conditions that will permit the student organization’s reinstatement, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the College and student during the period of suspension shall be directed to the Dean of Student Services or designee.

Dismissal (Individual Student)

Separation of the student from TSC to include removal from academic enrollment and revocation of other privileges or activities and the privilege to enter all TSC campuses for a period of time not less than two (2) years and not more than five (5) years. Conditions that will permit the student’s readmission, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the College and student during the period of dismissal will be directed to the Office of Student Conduct.

Dismissal (Student Organization)

Separation of the student organization from TSC to include suspension from and revocation of all privileges or activities for a period of time not less than two (2) years and not more than five (5) years. Conditions that will permit the student organization’s reinstatement, if appropriate, will be specifically outlined in writing. Any communications with the College and student during the period of dismissal shall be directed to the Dean of Student Services or designee.

Expulsion (Individual Student)

Complete termination of a student’s status and academic enrollment at TSC. Any communications with the College and student during the period of expulsion will be directed to the Office of Student Conduct. Expelled students will have the following notation made on their college transcript “Disciplinary Expulsion.”

Any student found responsible for a violation of the Student Code of Conduct may request a review of the disciplinary outcome and/or of the sanction(s).

Appeals

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 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.

Burden of Proof

The burden of proof at the appellate level rests with the student to clearly show 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 “Grounds for Appeal.”

Appellate Forums

Decisions of an instructor related to academic misconduct first offenses may be appealed to the appropriate Academic Dean through the grade appeal process established by the College.

Decisions of the Conduct Officer or any judicial body shall be appealed to the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. 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 judicial appeal body established by the College President or designee.

Grounds for Appeal

Failure to describe the nature of the evidence in full detail in the appeal letter will result in the denial of an appeal.

Appeal considerations are limited to:

• A violation of student rights (see Student Rights, Section 10) occurred that substantially affected the outcome of the hearing. Appeals based on this
• consideration will be limited solely to a review of the record and tape recording of the disciplinary hearing
• The evidence presented during the hearing was not substantial enough to justify a decision by the judicial body. Appeals based on this consideration will be limited solely to a review of the record and tape recording of the disciplinary hearing
• New evidence that was unavailable at the time of the original hearing could have substantially affected the outcome. The nature of the evidence must be described in full detail in the appeal letter and support documentation provided with the letter of appeal
• The intervention(s) or sanction(s) imposed was disproportionate to the nature of the offense
• The grounds for an appeal for students whose case was determined through a summary resolution is limited solely to claims that the severity of the sanction is disproportionate to the nature of the offense

Appellate Review Process

Initiating an Appeal

A written appeal must be submitted within five (5) business days of the receipt of the written decision of the judicial body to the appropriate appellate body. If the judicial body’s decision is not appealed within that time frame, the decision of the judicial body becomes final. -Record of Appeal The record of appeal will consist of and be limited to the written appeal, audio recording (if applicable), the written decision of the disciplinary body, and all other documentation relevant to the grounds for appeal.

Appellate Review

The appellate body shall review the appeal 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.

The appeal review must be solely limited to the issues put forth in the appeal and the grounds for appeal. The appellate body will review the written appeal, tape recording (if applicable), and all documentation from the hearing and determine if there is a basis for appeal.

The appellate body may grant an appellate conference if there is a basis for an appeal. A written decision will be sent to the student, within five (5) business days of the decision to grant an appeal, stating that an appeal has been granted and the basis for granting the appeal. The date for an appellate conference should be scheduled and provided to the student within ten (10) business days from the decision to grant the appeal.

If there is no basis for appeal, a written decision will be sent to the student stating the appeal denial and the basis for the denial within five (5) business days from the final determination of the appeal. The appellate body's decision will constitute the final College action on behalf of TSC.

Appellate Conference Procedures

If an appeal is granted, an appellate review will be scheduled within ten (10) business days of the decision to grant an appeal. The appellate conference is recorded. The appellate conference may involve:

• Questioning by the appellate body of any party involved in the disciplinary process but limited to Grounds for Appeal
• If the student is requested at the appellate conference, he/she may bring an adviser

The appellate decision is sent in writing to the student within ten (10) business days of an appellate review unless notification is given that additional time is necessary for consideration of the record on appeal. Except in the case of an interim suspension, the student’s status will remain unchanged, and all sanctions will be placed on hold during the appellate process. If a student has been invited to attend an appellate conference but fails to appear, the conference will occur in the absence of the student, and the appellate body’s decision will constitute final agency action on behalf of TSC.

Appellate Decisions

After an appellate conference, the appellate body may:

• Uphold the judicial body’s decision (sanction deadline dates may be changed to reflect the time taken to complete the appeals process)
• Reverse the judicial body’s decision and dismiss the case
• Modify the judicial body’s decision
• Modify the sanctions rendered by the judicial body

A review of the sanction by the appellate body will not result in more severe sanction(s). The appellate body may reduce, but not increase, the sanctions imposed by the judicial body. Decisions of the appellate body reflect final agency action on behalf of TSC.

If a judicial body member cannot serve due to an emergency or unforeseeable occurrence, the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee may appoint a new judicial body member prior to the scheduled hearing.

In cases where a judicial body has not been established or assembled, the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee may appoint the Conduct Officer or other appropriate TSC employee to hear the disciplinary case. In cases where an appellate body has not been established or assembled, the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee may handle the appellate case.

INDIVIDUAL STUDENTS (INTERIM/EMERGENCY SUSPENSIONS)

In situations where the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee has reasonable cause to believe a student’s alleged behavior or action and/or continued presence at the College poses a threat or danger to the health, safety, or general welfare of self, others, the campus community or the continuance of normal TSC functions, an Interim (temporary) Restriction of a student from specific TSC facilities, buildings and/or classrooms or from the TSC campus will be imposed. Behaviors or actions that may result in an interim suspension include, but are not limited to, threats, sexual assault, physical assault, hazing, possession or use of a firearm or explosives, felony drug possession or distribution, and acts that pose or may pose a threat to the safety or security of oneself, others and/or the property of the TSC community.

A student under Interim Suspension from the College is not allowed on any TSC campus or cannot enter any TSC facility until he/she has been given permission by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee to do so.

• A student under interim suspension from a facility, class, or other specific areas (s) of the campus is prohibited from entering the specified location(s) until he/she has been given permission by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee to do so
• A student under interim suspension may also be prohibited from communicating with a specific person or persons to ensure the safety of that individual or individuals or maintain the integrity of disciplinary proceedings

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS (INTERIM/EMERGENCY SUSPENSIONS)

In situations where the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee has reasonable cause to believe a student organization’s alleged behavior or action presents a threat or danger to the health, safety, or general welfare of others or the campus community, an Interim (temporary) Suspension will be imposed. Behaviors or actions that may result in an Interim Suspension include but are not limited to sexual assault, physical assault, hazing, possession or use of a firearm or explosives, felony drug possession or distribution, and acts that pose or may pose a threat to the safety or security of oneself, others and/or the property of the TSC community.

Interim/Emergency Suspension Procedures

NOTICE

The notice given to a student or student organization under Interim Suspension will include the notice of the charge(s), enactment notice of an Interim Suspension, specific code charge(s), and a brief description of the alleged offense(s). An Interim Suspension notice will be provided to the student, in writing via express mail or hand delivery by TSC Police, within 72 hours from the decision to enact the Interim Suspension. The letter must also include the contact information and specify the student is responsible for contacting the Judicial office to schedule an information session.

If a student or student organization fails to respond to a request to schedule an information session and/ or attend a scheduled information session and five (5) business days have expired since the date of the interim suspension notice, the student waives his/her right to an information session and will be deemed to have selected a formal administrative hearing, and the hearing will be scheduled in the student’s absence. A letter will be sent to the student at least five (5) business days before the scheduled hearing, which indicates the administrative hearing's date, time, and location.

The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee may extend the time in which to hold an information session or hearing in cases where further investigation is required or where the student is incarcerated or unable to attend an information session or hearing due to circumstances beyond the student’s control. The student is responsible for contacting the Judicial office regarding mitigating circumstances.

INFORMATION SESSION (INTERIM/EMERGENCY SUSPENSION)

During the information session, the student will be provided with the following:

• A clear and complete description of the Student Code of Conduct charges and a description of the allegations upon which the charge is based
• Information related to the student’s rights and responsibilities and preparation for a disciplinary hearing
• An opportunity to review relevant information in his/her disciplinary file that will be used during the disciplinary hearing. The Conduct Officer reserves the right to modify any report or documentation if deemed necessary to protect identifiable information of any person filing the report, witness, or alleged victim
• The right to accept responsibility for all charges and enter into a summary resolution or the right to dispute the allegation and request a formal hearing. If the student or student organization accepts the charges as presented, takes responsibility for the violation, and agrees to a summary resolution by the Conduct Officer, the Conduct Officer will provide the appropriate sanction(s), in writing, to the student or student organization within three (3) business days from the date of the summary resolution. The ground for an appeal for cases resolved through summary
• resolution is limited solely to claims that the severity of the sanction is disproportionate to the nature of the offense
• If the student or student organization does not accept responsibility or disagrees with the allegation, a formal hearing shall be conducted on the matter. A formal hearing will be scheduled within three (3) business days from the information session date unless the charged student or student organization requests additional time to prepare, not to exceed ten (10) business days. The interim suspension shall remain in effect until a final outcome is decided by a judicial body

Interim/Emergency Suspension Hearing Procedures

Formal hearing procedures for Interim Suspensions will be conducted in accordance with the procedures outlined in hearing procedures. Interim/Emergency Suspension Appellate Process The appellate process will follow the processes and procedures outlined in Appeals.

An audiotape recording will be made of all formal hearings. The recording shall be the official record of the disciplinary proceeding and shall be maintained in the Office of Student Conduct as outlined in Disciplinary Records. If a tape malfunction occurs, the judicial body shall include a summary of the testimony, which is detailed to permit a review of the hearing in case of appeal.

The student may review the recording of his/ her hearing by scheduling an appointment with the Conduct Officer. A copy of recorded hearings will not be provided to any person.

A student who fails to complete a sanction within the specified time frame may be charged with the Student Conduct Code violation, “Failure to Comply.” The student must notify the appropriate judicial body if mitigating circumstances prevent him/her from completing the sanction(s) by a specified time frame. The judicial body may extend the deadline time at its discretion. The student must complete all sanctions within the specified time frame to avoid a hold and or a charge of “Failure to Comply.” A disciplinary hold will be placed on a student’s records if a student fails to respond to requests of judicial bodies or fails to complete sanctions as determined through final TSC action. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the matter is resolved or all sanctions have been completed by the student.

A disciplinary hold will be placed on the records and registration of any student who:

• Fails to respond to a disciplinary notice by a judicial body
• Any pending disciplinary matters must be resolved prior to reregistration or a student’s graduation. No student will be allowed to register, graduate, or obtain transcripts or financial aid until the pending disciplinary case is completed
• Is under an interim suspension from the College. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the pending disciplinary case is completed
• Is under suspension from the College. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the student’s suspension status has expired and/or the requirements as set forth by the judicial/appellate body for readmission have been successfully met
• Is under expulsion from the College. The disciplinary hold will only be removed, upon written request, for a student to obtain his/ her transcript

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, TSC officials may inform the parents or legal guardians of a student under 25 years of age when he/ she has been involved in a violation of the Student Code of Conduct that involved the use, possession, distribution or sale of alcohol or controlled substances.

In addition, if a student is under the age of 18, parents or legal guardians of the student will be notified of any disciplinary action taken by TSC.

In cases of suspension or expulsion, notification is sent to the Director of Admissions and Records office, the Chief of the TSC Police Department, the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, the appropriate academic dean(s), and the victim (if applicable).

In cases where a student/student organization is restricted from a specific area/facility, notification is sent to the Chief of the TSC Police Department, Student Involvement Coordinator, Dean of Student Services, faculty adviser, and department director/dean of the restricted area/facility.

In cases where a student’s privilege to participate in a College-sponsored event, activity, student organization, or committee has been removed, notification is sent to the TSC administrator with oversight for the activity and faculty adviser for the organization.

In cases where the recognition of a student organization or specific privileges has been removed, notification is sent to the TSC administrator with oversight for the organization and the faculty adviser for the organization.

Official Record Management

All student discipline records, in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), including complete disciplinary records and appellate records of TSC students and student organizations and audio recordings (if applicable), will be maintained in Student Conduct Office.

Transcript Notations

In cases of expulsion, the following notation is made on the student’s transcript: “Disciplinary Expulsion.”

Disciplinary Record Expiration and Removals

• Disciplinary files remain a part of the student’s disciplinary record for three (3) years after the case's final disposition or in accordance with current state law or College policy, except in cases involving expulsion. The entire disciplinary record is removed from disciplinary databases and files. Any information retained after that time period will be used solely for research and statistical purposes. No personally identifiable information will be kept after a record has expired
• Disciplinary cases involving expulsion become part of the student’s permanent record
• All paper records will be destroyed by shredding or other similar process. Reports will be modified in a manner so that statistical data can be obtained, but personally identifiable information is deleted. Electronic information (e.g., audio recordings) will be destroyed to ensure the information cannot be traced to any individual or any discipline case
• Upon graduation, a student’s disciplinary file involving minor offenses may be expunged (removed from the disciplinary record) by filing a written request to the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee has sole discretion in determining whether a disciplinary file will be expunged prior to the time as specified in this Code

The following disciplinary files will not be expunged, except as in accordance with this Code:

• Disciplinary cases resulting in a suspension from the College (cases involving expulsion will not be expunged)
• Cases involving disruptive or threatening behavior, including, but not limited to, physical assault, acts of violence, harassment, stalking, threats, or sex offenses
• Cases involving a weapon, explosives, or hazardous materials
• Cases involving the distribution or intent to distribute illegal or illicit drugs as specified by state law
• Cases involving repeated offenses or behaviors

Disciplinary Records Request

Students may obtain a copy of the information in their disciplinary file by submitting a written request to the Office of Student Conduct. Copies will be provided in accordance with federal and state laws regarding the privacy of disciplinary records and TSC policy. Handwritten notes of a judicial body are not released to the student. Some reports may be modified to ensure that identifiable information of the reporting individual (or victim) or witnesses is protected for safety purposes.

• The charged student or victim will be afforded an opportunity to review the disciplinary hearing recording upon written request to the Office of Student Conduct
• The charged student will be required to sign a Confidentiality and FERPA Statement form in cases where there is a victim
• A victim will be required to sign a Confidentiality and FERPA Statement form in cases where the victim requests to review the disciplinary hearing recording
• Information will be placed in the disciplinary file indicating the person who was afforded the opportunity to review the recording and the date the review of the recording occurred
• Sharing, releasing, or providing any documents or recording of a disciplinary hearing, or any portion thereof, to any other person or group, without the written consent of the Conduct Officer, charged student and victim or as specified by this Code, is a violation of federal law and this Code. Any person who does so will be charged with a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and may be subject to criminal actions for a violation of law or may be subject to legal action through the courts

All disciplinary proceedings and records are confidential. Per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, TSC will abide by all laws requiring confidentiality and privacy regarding student disciplinary processes. This confidentiality extends to all hearing bodies and forums. In cases involving alleged behavior where victim rights are violated, the Conduct Officer will inform the victim of the outcome of the disciplinary hearing.

All disciplinary proceedings are private and closed to the public unless the charged student and victim (if applicable) agree in writing to an open hearing. However, the judicial body can deem the hearing closed to the public when necessary to maintain order or protect other participants' rights.

A student may choose to sign a release form allowing the appropriate judicial body permission to discuss information related to his/ her disciplinary file with any individual that he/she designates.

Any college, university, or other agency requesting any disciplinary information related to a current or former TSC student is required to submit a request, in writing, to the Office of Student Conduct. All written requests must include the signature of the student granting the release of information related to his/her disciplinary record and his/her current contact information. The Conduct Officer may contact the student for verification before releasing any disciplinary information.

Students with disabilities, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act requiring special accommodations, should register with Student Accessibility Services and notify Student Conduct Office, in writing, at least five (5) business days prior to the hearing of any special accommodations that may be required by the student. The Conduct Office representative will consult with Student Accessibility Services personnel to determine the appropriate accommodations required to ensure a student a fair and impartial hearing.

Email: studentconduct@TSC.fl.edu