Shelton State Student Handbook 2015-2016 CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY Shelton State is committed to providing a safe learning environment for all students and to supporting all federal and state regulations protecting individuals receiving services from Shelton State students. As part of this commitment, the College identifies all programs where criminal background checks are required by law or are required as a condition of the program’s approval or accreditation. The College requires criminal history checks of students in these identified programs and will refuse admission to or continuation in these programs, when necessary, to meet such regulations or accreditation standards. DRUG, ALCOHOL, AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY Shelton State Community College complies with the regulations and initiatives as prescribed by federal regulations in the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. The College is strongly committed to providing a drug-free learning and working environment. Drug awareness information is included in the orientation course required for all first-year students. In Section 5301 of the aforementioned Public Law, institutions are required to inform students that should they be convicted of drug distribution or possession, the court may suspend their eligibility for Title IV financial assistance. If convicted three or more times for drug distribution, students may become permanently ineligible to receive Title IV financial assistance. FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION POLICY Introduction Shelton State believes an important aspect of educating our students is the opportunity to listen to speakers who represent a wide variety of opinions and beliefs regarding important public issues. The following policies govern the campus appearance of speakers. These policies are designed to support the educational function of Shelton State, guarantee protection of First Amendment rights to freedom of speech, and ensure that students and studentsponsored organizations and speakers are given priority in scheduling and use of Shelton State’s campus. A speaker’s appearance on campus does not imply an endorsement of his/her views by Shelton State, which includes its students, faculty, and staff. Definitions • College Department: An official unit of Shelton State • Student Organization: A group officially recognized by and registered with the Office of Student Services in accordance with College policies and procedures • Sponsored Speakers: Those persons or organizations invited to speak on Shelton State’s campus by a College department or student organization in accordance with the guidelines set forth below Page 45