REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
College Council
November 16, 2015 3:00 p.m. – Board Room
A G E N D A - Amended
1. Minutes Dated 10/19/2015 (Page 3)
NEW BUSINESS
1. Spring 2016 Meeting Dates (Page 7)
a. 4th Monday (1/25, 2/22, 3/28, 4/25)
2. AP 5500 - Standards of Student Conduct (Page 9)
a. Review policy and procedure changes
3. BP & AP 6800 – Safety (Page 30)
a. Review policy and procedure changes
4. BP 6801 – Injury and Illness Prevention Program (Page 33)
a. Sunset replaced by new BP 6800
5. BP 6850 – Hazardous Materials (Page 35)
a. Sunset not a league template
6. AP 6850 – Hazardous Materials (Page 39)
a. Review policy and procedure changes
7. AP 6851 – Eye Protection (Page 42)
a. Sunset consolidated into AP 6850
8. AP 7400 – Travel Reimbursement (Page 43)
a. Review policy and procedure changes
OLD BUSINESS:
1. BP 1200 District Mission (Page 52)
a. Review constituent feedback
2. AP 4231Grade Changes (Page 53)
a. Review students feedback
3. BP 7387 Pre-Retirement Reduction of Workload (Page 64)
a. Review constituent feedback
4. AP 7387-P & AP 7387-S Pre-Retirement Reduction of Workload (Page 67)
a. Review constituent feedback
5. AP 3440 Service Animals (Page 73)
a. Review constituent feedback
6. AP 3530 Weapons on Campus (Page 78)
a. Review policy and procedure changes
Policy and Procedure Tracking
Date
Number
Title
BP/AP 6750
Parking Regulations
BP/AP 3515
Crime Reporting
BP/AP 3720
Computer and
Network Use
Graduation
Requirements for
Degrees and
Certificates
Employee
Microcomputer
Purchase
Speech: Time, Place,
and Manner
Philosophy and
Criteria for Associate
degree and General
Education
Academic Recognition
BP/AP 4100
BP/ AP 6331
BP/AP 3900
BP 4025
BP 4223
10/19/15
10/19/15
SEP Student
Rep
BP/AP 4300
10/19/15
BP/AP 3260
Field Trips and
Excursions
Participatory
Governance
Status
Tabled – Lee to make revisions re:
Fortuna Police Dept. issuing parking
tickets.
Tabled - To Burke for revisions re
addition of Garberville/Del Norte,
duplicate language on pages 2 and 4, and
center/instructional site clarifications
Tabled – Lee to make revisions re
licensing, purchasing, and instillations
Council member researching the Ethnic
Studies Requirement – return with BP
4025
Tabled – waiting for negotiations
In ASPC que
To Academic Senate for review – return
with BP and AP 4100
Tabled – can be sent to ASPC with
questions regarding requirements
Awaiting SEP Committee Membership
ASPC for re-write
ASPC for re-write
College Council Minutes
October 19, 2015
Page 1
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Minutes of the College Council Meeting
7351 Tompkins Hill Road, Eureka, CA, Board Room
Monday October 19, 2015
MEMBERS
PRESENT
Keith Snow-Flamer, Mark Winter, Angelina Hill, Ahn Fielding, Connie
Wolfsen, Rory Johnson (phone), Pru Ratliff, Mark Renner (phone), Debbie
Topping, Steve Sandeen, Bob Brown
MEMBERS ABSENT
Lee Lindsey
CALL TO ORDER
Interim President Keith Snow-Flamer called the meeting to order at 3:02 p.m.
MINUTES DATED
9/21/2015
Mark Winter’s name is listed twice as attending.
ACTION Council approved the minutes as presented.
NEW BUSINESS
AP 3440 SERVICE
ANIMALS
Connie would like to see consistency with the use of RCCD, district and titles.
Vice President of Student Support Services should be CIO/CSSO and Human
Resources Department should be Director of Human Resources.
Correct the font under 5 (V).
Make varies changes to bullet four under section 5
A motion was made by Connie Wolfsen and seconded by Pru Ratliff to send AP
3440 Service Animals out for a 30 day constituent review.
ACTION A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send AP 3440 Service
Animals out for a 30 day constituent review.
AP 3530 WEAPONS ON Debbie mentioned how do we handle Brinks or other armed contractors that are
CAMPUS under contract.
The question came up about kitchen knives and other staff related tools.
A motion was made by Steve Sandeen and seconded by Bob Brown to table AP
3530 Weapons on Campus for a rewrite by Director of Public Safety.
TABLED A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to table AP 3530 Weapons on
Campus for a rewrite by Director of Public Safety.
College Council Minutes
September 21, 2015
Page 2
BP AND AP 3260
PARTICIPATORY
GOVERNANCE
TABLED Send AP 3260 Participatory Governance to be forwarded to ASPC for rewrite
and inclusion of all constituent groups.
OLD BUSINESS
REPRESENTATIVE ON
STUDENT EQUITY
PLANNING
COMMITTEE
TABLED Tabled until SEP committee membership is determined.
BP AND AP 4300 FIELD
TRIPS AND
EXCURSIONS
A motion was made by Mark Renner and seconded by Bob Brown to table BP &
AP 4300 Field Trips and Excursions to ASPC for rewrite and inclusion of all
constituent groups.
TABLED A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send BP & AP 4300 Field
Trips and Excursions to ASPC for rewrite and inclusion of all constituent
groups.
BP 1200 DISTRICT
MISSION
Connie would like add healthy workplace after embrace diversity. After much
discussion it was decided to add “healthy community environment” to be added.
A motion was made by Steve Sandeen and seconded by Bob Brown to send BP
1200 District Mission to out for a 14 day constituent review with “healthy
community environment” included.
ACTION
A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send BP 1200 District
Mission to out for a 14 day constituent review with “healthy community
environment” included.
College Council Minutes
September 21, 2015
Page 3
BP AND AP 4020
PROGRAM
CURRICULUM AND
COURSE
DEVELOPMENT
No feedback from constituent groups, send to Board of Trustees for first review.
A motion was made by Pru Ratliff and seconded by Steve Sandeen to send BP &
AP 4020 Program Curriculum and Course Development to Board of Trustees for
first review.
ACTION A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send BP & AP 4020
Program Curriculum and Course Development to Board of Trustees for first
review.
AP 4021 PROGRAM
REVITALIZATION,
SUSPENSION, OR
DISCONTINUATION
No feedback from constituent groups, send to Board of Trustees for first review.
A motion was made by Pru Ratliff and seconded by Steve Sandeen to send AP
4021 Program Revitalization, Suspension, or Discontinuation to Board of
Trustees for first review.
ACTION A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send AP 4021 Program
Revitalization, Suspension, or Discontinuation to Board of Trustees for first
review.
Student submitted feedback regarding the definition of “Bad Faith”
AP 4231GRADE
CHANGES
A motion was made by Pru Ratliff and seconded by Steve Sandeen to table AP
4231 Grade Changes until all members have a chance to review the students
comments.
TABLED A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to table AP 4231 Grade
Changes until all members have a chance to review the students comments.
BP 7387 PRERETIREMENT
REDUCTION OF
WORKLOAD
Membership would like the BP re-written, as it is not being sunsetted as
originally thought. BP will be re-written and sent out for constituent review.
A motion was made by Steve Sandeen and seconded by Bob Brown to send BP
7387 out for a 30 day constituent review.
ACTION A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send BP 7387 out for a 30
day constituent review.
AP 7387-P & 7387-S
RETIREMENT
REDUCTION OF
WORKLOAD
A motion was made by Steve Sandeen and seconded by Bob Brown to send AP
7387-P & 7387-S out for a 30 day constituent review.
College Council Minutes
September 21, 2015
Page 4
ACTION A vote was taken and Council voted unanimously to send AP 7387-P & 7387-S
out for a 30 day constituent review.
ADJOURNMENT
Interim President Keith Snow-Flamer adjourned the meeting at 4:05pm
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP
5500
STANDARDS OF STUDENT CONDUCTS
1.0
Purpose of the Code
The purpose of this code is to recognize student’s rights within the institution to freedom of
speech, inquiry and assembly; to the peaceful pursuit of education; and to the
reasonable use of services and facilities of the College. Consistent with the College of the
Redwoods’ mission is an expectation that students will govern themselves in a manner that
demonstrates appropriate behavior with emphasis on self-respect and respect for
others. It is the practice of all employees and representatives of the College to respect the
properly exercised rights of its students.
The College has adopted a Student Conduct Code and Disciplinary Procedure in order to
maintain a learning environment of respect, civility, safety, and integrity for all members
of the College community. In addition to the code, students must also recognize and
comply with the standards of classroom behavior as stated in their individual course
syllabi. Acts of academic dishonesty, disruptive student behavior in the classroom, and
appeals to sanctions imposed in each case, are under the jurisdiction of the faculty
member and the academic department administrator, and may be referred to the CSSO as
student conduct violations. Further, students must understand that Threats of violence are
considered a serious infringement upon the learning environment and will be acted upon
accordingly.
2.0
Student Conduct Policies
Procedural fairness and due process are basic to the proper enforcement of all College
regulations. Accordingly, no disciplinary action shall be initiated or sanction imposed
against students or student organizations until they have been notified in writing of the
charges against them and their rights under this Code, and given the opportunity to be
heard , with the exception that a hold status (may, shall, or will) be placed on student
records until the specific complaints have been resolved, and except in cases where
interim suspension is warranted for the health and safety of the College community.
In general, the District President/Superintendent delegates authority for implementation
of this administrative procedure to the Chief Student Services Officer (CSSO). The
“CSSO” designation may be assigned by the President/Superintendent to any College
administrator. The CSSO may designate other College officials to conduct investigations
and student disciplinary hearings, if appropriate.
The CSSO shall be responsible for maintaining complete records pertaining to all
activities relating to the implementation of the Student Conduct Code. Those records
shall include a summary of the business of the Conduct Review Committee and report of
the disposition of each disciplinary case handled by any person or group authorized to
impose disciplinary sanctions or other recommendations in the name of the College.
3.0
Student Rights
Any student facing possible disciplinary action is entitled to the following procedural
rights:
4.0
3.1
The right to be notified in writing of the charges against him/her;
3.2
The right to know the nature of the evidence against him/her (unless release of the
evidence would endanger the health or safety of victim(s) or witness(es);
3.3
The right to present information and witnesses relevant to his/her defense;
3.4
The right to freedom from compulsory self-incrimination; and
3.5
The right to appear at a hearing before the Conduct Review Committee with an
advisor.
Proscribed Conduct of the College
Sanctions may be imposed for prohibited conduct which occurs on College premises, at
off-campus instructional sites (e.g., experiential coursework, internships, or lab), at
College-sponsored extra-curricular activities or events when a student serves as a
representative of the College, or in the course of using College technology or property.
Sanctions may also be imposed for conduct that materially and substantially interferes
with the College’s operation or education programs or the safety and welfare of the
College community. Examples of prohibited conduct are described in Section 8.0: Code
of Conduct Violations and Sanctions. To the extent permitted by California law, the
College may respond to alleged sexual assault or sexual exploitation that is not related to
College activity or College attendance.
5.0
Jurisdiction and Privacy
Jurisdiction is maintained between periods of enrollment unless the accused individual’s
official record in the Records Office shows a complete withdrawal prior to the expiration
of the published deadline for registration for the succeeding period of enrollment. For
students enrolled in the spring term, jurisdiction is maintained until the expiration of the
published deadline for registration for the succeeding fall term.
Unless state or federal law requires or permits disclosure or unless the student and the
College determine otherwise, proceedings under this regulation shall be confidential.
Records created by public safety, which were created by that law enforcement unit for
purposes of law enforcement, are not considered “student records” under the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and may be released to third parties as
necessary without violating FERPA.
6.0
Student Code of Conduct Procedures
Any member of the College community may file a complaint against any student for alleged
misconduct. Complaints must be presented in writing to the CSSO or his/her designee and should
be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within fifteen business
days.
For purposes of these procedures, the term “day” refers to any day during which the
District is open for business. Should the final day of a required process fall on a Saturday
or Sunday, the following Monday shall be considered the final day. A final day falling on a
College holiday shall be considered the first weekday following the holiday.
Although specific timeframes are identified in these processes, any of the timeframes
may be extended by the District for good cause upon written notice to the Affected Party
and the Responding accused student, providing such notice includes the reason(s) for the
extension.
A student against whom a complaint has been filed and/or disciplinary charges are
pending will have a hold status placed on his/her records and will not be permitted to
withdraw from the College with a clear education record (e.g., a record without notation
of disciplinary charges and sanctions) until such charges have been resolved.
6.1
Investigation and Notice to Student
Allegations or complaints of student misconduct that are brought to the attention
of the CSSO shall first be analyzed to determine whether the alleged conduct, if
true, would constitute a violation of District policies. Upon a determination that
alleged misconduct, if true, would constitute a violation of District policies, the
CSSO, or his/her designee, shall promptly and thoroughly investigate the matter.
An investigative process should, to the extent possible, be concluded within
twenty (20) days of the initiation of the investigation. An investigative report shall
be prepared that usually includes the following:
6.1.1
A description of the circumstances giving rise to the complaint.
6.1.2
A summary of the testimony provided by each witness.
6.1.3
An analysis of relevant data.
6.1.4
A finding of whether there is probable reasonable cause to believe that
sexual misconduct occurred.
6.1.5
Any other information considered appropriate by the District (Title 5,
section 59334).
The contents of the investigative report may be adjusted to take into account
admissions made by an accused student that eliminate the need for witness
testimony or other factors that might affect the scope of an investigation.
6.2
Imposing Sanctions
If the student does admit responsibility misconduct, and if the CSSO or designee
concludes that there is sufficient information to sustain a finding
of responsibility misconduct that violates specific standards of conduct, the CSSO
or designee may impose or defer one or more of the sanctions listed under Code
of Conduct Violations and Sanctions. No The CSSO or designee may impose a
sanction other than suspension or expulsion if the CSSO or designee concludes by a
preponderance of the evidence that the student violated one or more specific
standards of conduct, even if the student does not admit
misconduct. Recommended sanctions involving separation from the College (i.e.,
Suspension or Expulsion) will be imposed may be imposed or recommended by the
CSSO or designee to Such sanctions are to be recommended to the President by the
Student Conduct Review Committee where the Committee will consider whether
suspension and/or expulsion is an appropriate sanction for the admitted misconduct
in violation of the standards of conduct. The Committee is not required to make
additional factual findings where there is clear evidence that a student has admitted
misconduct.
When the Committee is not readily available, or when convening the Committee is
impractical due to the seriousness of the admitted misconduct, the CSSO may
suspend the student and/or recommend expulsion, and notify the
President/Superintendent of the need for an automatic appeal on the sole basis of
whether or not the proposed discipline is substantially unreasonable in light of the
admitted misconduct. The student may also submit a written appeal to the
President/Superintendent but is not required to do so in order to secure an automatic
appeal under this section. Any recommendation of expulsion requires Board of
Trustee review.
NOTE: The above represents a significant substantive change. Presently, even where the
student admits misconduct, the CSSO cannot impose suspension or recommend expulsion,
but must refer the matter to the Conduct Review Committee. However, if the student
admits to misconduct, a hearing to determine whether the misconduct occurred is not
necessary. Instead, the suggested change is that the CSSO can impose suspension or
recommend expulsion but the Committee would not hold a full fact-finding hearing. The
Committee would only assesses whether the proposed sanction is appropriate.
A second option is also introduced. Where the Committee is not available, for example
during breaks between semesters, or when serious misconduct has been admitted that needs
to be addressed quickly, the CSSO can impose a suspension or recommend expulsion which
carries an automatic appeal to the President/Superintendent to provide a review as to
whether or not the sanction is unreasonable. An automatic appeal would ensure a
Presidential review of the sanction without the need for a written appeal from the student –
although the student can submit a written appeal if he/she wishes. This option would also
apply where a student who has admitted misconduct is unavailable, such as when a student is
in police custody, and may not easily file an appeal. There is still a check/balance on the
authority of the CSSO represented by the automatic appeal to the President/Superintendent.
6.3 Referral to the Student Conduct Review Committee
The CSSO or designee will refer the case to the Student Conduct Committee for a
hearing when the CSSO or designee recommends suspension or expulsion, and:
6.3.1 The student does not admit responsibility;
6.3.2 The CSSO or designee concludes that an Agreement of Resolution (see
section 6.5) is not appropriate;
6.3.3 There is a finding of probable reasonable cause to believe there has been a
violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
6.4
Insufficient Evidence
6.4.1 At any time before the Student Conduct Hearing occurs, if the CSSO
or designee receives new information that establishes a clear lack of
truth of prior information submitted to the CSSO or designee such that
it is determined that the prior evidence must be disregarded and if in
disregarding that prior information the CSSO or designee concludes
that there is insufficient information to sustain a finding of
responsibility, then the CSSO or designee will withdraw the case from
the Student Conduct Committee. This disposition is binding and
terminates all Student Conduct Committee proceedings.
6.4.2 If the CSSO or designee concludes that there is insufficient
information to find the student responsible, the case will not be
referred to the Student Conduct Committee for a hearing.
6.5
Agreement of Resolution (aka Behavior Contract)
When the CSSO or designee and the student agree that the above dispositions are
not appropriate, an Agreement of Resolution may be used to conclude the matter.
This Resolution, while not considered to be a finding of responsibility, is binding.
If the student fails to abide by the terms of the Agreement of Resolution, that
failure may be regarded as actionable misconduct and may subject the student to
disciplinary action by the College. An Agreement of Resolution may include such
terms as:
6.5.1 Agreement by the student to refrain from specific behaviors, and/or to
refrain from contacting others involved in the case;
6.5.2 Agreement by the student to participate in specified educational programs
and/or reconciliation processes such as mediation; and/or
6.5.3 Agreement by the student to participate in specified community service
activities.
The Agreement of Resolution is not a formal disciplinary action but will be
retained in the case file in the Office of the CSSO for a maximum of seven (7)
years from the date of the Agreement. During that time, should the CSSO or
designee have a reasonable basis to believe that the student has engaged in
misconduct related in nature to the conduct which occasioned the Agreement,
both cases may be the subject of College disciplinary action.
6.6
Formal Hearing
6.6.1 Conduct Review Committee
The accused student may request, or the CSSO may require, that the
charges be resolved at a formal hearing provided by the Conduct Review
Committee. The CSSO shall consider the preference of the accused
student, the nature of the charges, and the availability of the committee
members when assigning the case for a hearing. The Conduct Review
Committee will hear cases and make decisions on appropriate sanctions.
The Committee will be established at the beginning of each academic year
and will be composed of:
6.6.1.1
One (1) member of the administration (and an alternate)
appointed by the President/Superintendent.
6.6.1.2
Two (2) members (and an alternate) of the classified staff
appointed by the President of the College from a list of staff
members submitted by the classified bargaining unit. Vacancies
of classified staff members shall be filled by action of the
classified bargaining unit.
6.6.1.3
Two (2) members (and an alternate) of the faculty appointed by
the President/Superintendent from a list of faculty members
submitted by the Academic Senate. Each faculty member must
be a full-time or part-time faculty member at the College.
Vacancies of faculty members shall be filled by action of the
Senate.
6.6.1.4
Two (2) members (and an alternate) of the student body
appointed by the President/Superintendent from a list of students
submitted by the President of the ASCR Senate. Each student
must be enrolled not less than half-time (6 units minimum) and
have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0. Vacancies of student
members shall be filled by recommendation of the ASCR Senate.
6.6.1.5
The President of the College will appoint the chair of the
Conduct Review Committee.
Conduct Review Committee members and alternates serve on the
committee for the academic year. Alternate members may be reappointed
to serve as full members for the next academic year.
The CSSO or designee shall serve as non-voting Secretary and advisor to
the Conduct Review Committee.
No Conduct Review Committee member may sit on the Committee during a
hearing if that member is a complainant, witness, has a direct or personal
interest in the outcome of the hearing, or has previously acted in an
advisory capacity to the accused student.
The Chair of the Conduct Review Committee may establish a hearing
format consistent with this Code. In cases involving more than one
accused student, the Chair of the Conduct Review Committee and the
CSSO or designee will determine if hearings or conferences concerning
each student will be conducted jointly or separately. The decision of the
Committee Chair shall be final on all matters relating to the conduct of the
hearing unless there is a vote by other members of the panel to the
contrary.
6.6.2. Hearing Officer. In appropriate circumstances, the CSSO may determine
that a disciplinary hearing should be conducted by a neutral hearing officer rather
than a Conduct Review Committee. Such circumstances include, but are not
limited to hearings that are anticipated to require more than one day of hearing
where Committee member educational or employment obligations may be
impacted, when a Committee cannot be convened expeditiously to address a critical
matter, or where technical or legal complexities suggest the need for specialized
expertise. To the extent practicable, where a hearing officer is substituted for a
Conduct Review Committee, the rules related to a Committee shall apply to a
hearing before a hearing officer.
NOTE: The foregoing is another significant substantive recommendation. It creates an
option to use a single hearing officer instead of a Conduct Review Committee in limited
circumstances as described. This is not a requirement to use a hearing officer, only an option
to do so.
6.6.2 Notice of Hearing. Written notice of the hearing shall be provided
simultaneously to the accused and the complainant and shall include the
following:
6.6.2.1 The specific alleged misconduct (accusation).
6.6.2.2 A summary of the investigation and/or a short written statement
of the facts supporting an accusation of misconduct.
6.6.2.3 The right of the parties to attend the hearing or to respond in
writing regarding the party’s position concerning the matter.
6.6.2.4 The nature of the discipline that is being considered.
6.6.3 Notices described in this procedure are sent to the most recent official
student address and/or email address on file with the District. The notice
will inform the student of:
6.6.3.1 The charges alleged to have been violated and sufficient details
of the complaint for the basis of the allegation to be understood;
6.6.3.2 The time, location and place of the hearing;
6.6.3.3 A statement of the respondent student’s rights as stated in the
Code or a copy of this Standard of Student Conduct; and
6.6.3.4 The name of the person(s), group, or College office filing the
charges.
Nothing prohibits the District from amending the notice as deemed
appropriate. The CSSO may request the production of relevant evidence
that was not part of the investigative process for consideration in the
hearing process upon notice to the accused student.
6.7
Conduct of Hearing
The CSSO or designee shall determine how the hearing will be conducted, taking
into account the safety of parties and witnesses. The CSSO or designee may call
and question witnesses he/she believes have relevant information.
Each party may recommend witnesses to be called. To avoid unnecessarily
duplicative or irrelevant testimony, the CSSO or designee may require a party to
indicate the nature of the proposed testimony as a condition to calling
witnesses. Neither the CSSO or designee cannot nor the Committee can compel
the attendance of witnesses recommended by the parties.
The CSSO or designee shall determine on a case-by-case basis how the questioning
of parties and witnesses shall be conducted, given the nature of the allegations and
the safety of parties and witnesses. If the CSSO or designee does not permit direct
questioning by the parties, he/she may consider permitting the parties to submit
questions for the CSSO to ask parties and witnesses.
Formal rules of evidence shall not apply. Any relevant, non-duplicative evidence
may be admitted.
Determination of violations shall be made based on the preponderance of
evidence.
Quorum for a hearing requires that five (5) of the seven Student Conduct Review
Committee members are present for the hearing. If the case is to be heard at the
Mendocino or Del Norte site, a quorum will be three (3) members of the
Committee.
Hearings shall be closed and confidential unless the student requests that it be
open to the public. Any such request must be made no less than five (5) days prior
to the date of the hearing. In a closed hearing, witnesses shall not be present at the
hearing when not testifying, unless all parties and the Chair of the committee
agree to the contrary.
In all cases, the evidence in support of the charges will be presented and
considered whether or not either the accused party is in attendance. If the
accused student has submitted written information in his/her defense but
does not attend the hearing, that information shall be considered by the
Committee as well.
The accused student may be accompanied by an advisor if so desired, conditional
on 24-hour notice to and approval of the CSSO or designee. The advisor may
attend the hearing with the student to counsel him/her and suggest questions. The
accused student and advisor may be present during the entire time of the hearing,
except during the deliberations of the Conduct Review Committee or where the
safety of witnesses is a valid concern. In no event may the advisor participate
directly by speaking for either party or questioning witnesses.
The student shall not be represented by an attorney unless, in the judgment of the
CSSO or designee, complex legal issues are involved, or unless criminal charges
are pending based on the alleged conduct for which disciplinary action is pending.
If the student wishes to be represented by an attorney, a request must be presented
with the name and office address of the attorney not less than
five calendar/business days prior to the date of the hearing. If the student is
permitted to be represented by an attorney, the College presenter may request also
have legal assistance. The Conduct Review Committee may also request legal
assistance; any legal advisor provided to the committee may sit with it in an
advisory capacity to provide legal counsel but shall not be a member of the panel
nor vote with it.
7.0
Notice of Decision.
Within fifteen (15) days following the hearing, the CSSO Committee Chair or his/her
designee on the Committee shall prepare and send a the written decision of the
Committe simultaneously to the parties CSSO or designee. The Notice of Decision shall
include factual findings regarding the accusation and determinations as to whether any
specific section(s) of the Standards of Student Conduct were violated. The Notice of
Decision shall also include a specific decision regarding the disciplinary action to be
imposed, if any, unless expulsion is recommended. The Notice of Decision shall be based
only on the record of the hearing, and not on matters outside of that record. The record
includes the investigative report, any written notices or student statements, and oral and
written evidence produced for, or at, the hearing. If expulsion is recommended, the Notice
of Decision shall verify that expulsions require Board of Trustee action.
The CSSO shall transmit the Notice of Decision to the accused student. If the Decision
calls for disciplinary action, the CSSO shall also notify the accused student of his/her
appeal options.
If the student is found not to be in violation of the Student Code of Conduct, and if
coursework has been missed as a direct result of action taken against the student,
appropriate action will be taken in order to assist the student to complete the course,
reimburse the cost of tuition, or reach other alternatives.
7.1
Appeals of Formal Hearing Decisions
Appeal requests are available to the parties accused student only on the following
bases:
7.1.1 A claim that the initial hearing included a material procedural error. The
appeal request must identify the specific procedural error(s) and how that
claimed error disadvantaged the appealing party.
7.1.2 Relevant evidence that was previously unavailable has been discovered,
and that evidence could significantly impact the outcome of the case. The
appeal request must identify the specific evidence, how the evidence is
relevant, why the evidence was previously unavailable, and how the newly
discovered relevant evidence could impact the outcome of the case.
7.1.3 The proposed discipline is substantially unreasonable in light of the
findings. The appeal request must indicate the claimed unreasonableness of
the proposed discipline and indicate what discipline the student believes
would be appropriate.
Written appeals must be submitted in writing to the President/Superintendent
within five (5) days of the delivery of the CSSO’s Notice of Decision to
the parties student. If no appeal is received within five (5) days, the decision of
the CSSO, including the proposed discipline will take immediate effect.
The President/Superintendent will not hold a hearing. Rather, resolution of the
appeal shall be based upon the written findings and decision from the Conduct
Review Committee, the record of the hearing, as well as any written
documentation submitted by either party during the hearing. The CSSO or
designee will provide all relevant documentation to the President/Superintendent.
The President/Superintendent shall render a decision within ten (10) business days
after receipt of the appeal and shall inform the student immediately by mail and/or
email.
In all cases but expulsion, the President/Superintendent’s decision regarding the
appeal will be final. Any recommendation of expulsion shall be presented to the
Board of Trustees for action.
If the President/Superintendent upholds an expulsion decision that the student
wishes to contest further, the student may appeal in writing to the Board of
Trustees. In this instance, the following procedure will be followed:
 The Board of Trustees shall consider any appeal at the next regularly
scheduled meeting of the Board after receipt of the recommended
decision. The Board may also hold a special meeting to consider the
discipline of a student, provided the notice of a special meeting for
this purpose is posted at least five days prior to the special meeting .
 The Board of Trustees shall consider an expulsion recommendation in
closed session, unless the student has requested that the matter be
considered in a public meeting in accordance with these procedures.
 The student shall be notified in writing, at least three (3) days prior to the
meeting, of the date, time, and place of the Board's meeting.
 The student may, within forty-eight hours after receipt of the notice,
request that the hearing be held as a public meeting.
Even if a student has requested that the Board of Trustees consider an expulsion
recommendation in a public meeting, the Board of Trustees will hold any
discussion that might be in conflict with the right to privacy of any student, other
than the student requesting the public meeting, in closed session.
The Board of Trustees may accept, modify or reject the findings, decisions and
recommendations of the President/Superintendent and/or the hearing panel. If the
Board of Trustees modifies or rejects the findings, decision , or recommendations,
the Board shall review the record of the hearing and any timely appeal, and shall
prepare a new written decision which contains specific factual findings and
conclusions. The decision of the Board of Trustees shall be final.
The final action of the Board of Trustees on the expulsion shall be taken at a
public meeting, and the result of the action shall be a public record of the College.
8.0
Code of Conduct Violations and Sanctions
8.1
Violations
Students are expected to demonstrate qualities of morality, integrity, honesty,
civility, honor, and respect. Students are required to engage in responsible social
conduct that reflects credit upon the CR Community and to model good
citizenship in any community. Disciplinary action may be initiated by the College
and sanctions imposed against any student or student organization found
responsible of committing, attempting to commit, or intentionally assisting in the
commission of any prohibited forms of conduct:
8.1.1 Academic dishonesty, which includes cheating, plagiarism, and hampering
or discrediting the academic work of others, shall be more fully defined in
administrative procedures.
8.1.2 Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized
peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject the students to civil and criminal
liabilities.
8.1.3 Continued disruptive behavior¸ or obstructing the work and operation of
the College, as shall be more fully defined in administrative
procedures.,including willful disruption of the orderly operation of the
campus.
8.1.4 Defamation: An individual shall not use defamatory words or phrases or
distribute defamatory materials. Defamatory words or materials are those
that: (1) are false and expose any person or the college to hatred,
contempt, ridicule, disgust or an equivalent reaction; or (2) are false and
have a tendency to impugn a person’s occupation, business, or office.
8.1.5 Violation of the College’s computer use policy or any conduct that
constitutes a computer-related crime pursuant to Penal Code, section 502.
Use of electronic technology includes, but is not limited to: internet, email, telephone, fax machines, or instant messaging to intimidate another
member of the College community.
8.1.6 Theft (actual or attempted) or destruction of College property or property
belonging to a member of the College community or other abuse of College
computer facilities, programs, technology and equipment as shall be more
fully described in administrative procedures.
8.1.7 Coercion, which is defined as attempting to compel, control, or manipulate
another through the threat of force, intimidation, exploitation of fear or
anxiety, including explicit and implied physical and verbal threats against
another person or bullying as defined in Board Policy 3431 and
Administrative Procedure 3431.
8.1.8 Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration,
disciplinary proceedings, other College activities, including its public
service functions on or off campus, or of other authorized non-College
activities when the conduct occurs on College premises.
8.1.9 Intentionally obstructing or denying access to facilities or services to
individuals entitled to use such services or facilities.
8.1.10 Intentionally interfering with the lawful rights of other persons on campus.
8.1.11 Violation of the District’s nondiscrimination or sexual harassment
policies, or engaging in harassing, or retaliatory behavior in violation of
District policy or sexual assault or misconduct or physical abuse,
including but not limited to rape, domestic violence, dating violence,
sexual assault or , stalking or sexual exploitation. as defined in District
procedures. Sexual misconduct, including discrimination based on
gender, sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual
assault, stalking, sexual exploitation, and hate crimes based on gender are
subject to Administrative Procedure 5502.
8.1.12 Violation of local, county, state, or federal law, whether it be on or off
campus, only when a definite College interest is involved and where the
student misconduct distinctly and adversely affects the College’s pursuit
of its educational mission.
8.1.13 Wearing, transporting, storing, or possessing firearms or other weapons on
College property (including College-owned vehicles and parking lots), at
College-sponsored or College-related functions or events, and during
times when acting as a representative of the College whether on or off
College premises The administrative procedures shall define “Weapons”
prohibited by this policy to procedure include firearms, knives, explosives,
clubs and other items used as a threat to do bodily harm and facsimiles of
such weapons. This does Prohibitions described in this provision do not
apply to any certified law enforcement personnel engaged in official duties.
Activities requiring use of the prohibited items may be conducted on
approval of the activity by the President/Superintendent or his/her designee.
8.1.14 Intentional obstruction of the freedom of movement of pedestrian or
vehicular traffic on College premises.
8.1.15 Participation in a campus demonstration which disrupts the normal
operations of the College and infringes on the rights of other members of
the College community.
8.1.16 Leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities
within any campus building or area.
8.1.17 Detention or physical abuse, or assault or battery, extortion, or
intimidation of any person or conduct which is intended to threaten
imminent bodily harm or endanger the health or safety of any person on
any property owned or controlled by the College or at any College
sponsored or supervised functions.
8.1.18 Failure to comply with reasonable directions of College officials or public
safety officers acting in performance of their duties on campus or affecting
conduct on campus.
8.1.19 Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any College
premises, supplies or equipment, including computing, networking, or
information resources, or unauthorized entry to or use of College
premises.
8.1.20 Being an accessory to any person on the College campus who is or who is
not a member of the College community who violates this code.
8.1.21 Violation of College Board policies, published college policies, rules,
procedures, or regulations.
8.1.22 Conduct that is disorderly, lewd, or indecent; breach of peace; or aiding,
abetting, or procuring another person to breach the peace on CR premises
or at functions sponsored by, or participated in by, CR or members of the
College community.
8.1.23 Unlawful possession, use, sale, offer to sell, or furnishing, or being under
the influence of, any controlled substance listed in California Health and
Safety Code Section 11053 et seq., an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant
of any kind; or unlawful possession of, or offering, arranging or
negotiating the sale of any drug paraphernalia, as defined in California
Health and Safety Code Section 11014.5 or use, sale or distribution of any
poison defined in Section 4240 of the Business and Professions Code.
8.1.24 Willful or persistent smoking in any area where smoking has been
prohibited by law or by regulation of the College.
8.1.25 Willful misconduct that results in injury or death to a student or to College
personnel or which results in cutting, defacing, or other injury to any real
or personal property owned by the College or on campus.
8.1.26 Dishonesty; forgery; alteration or misuse of College documents, records or
identification; or knowingly furnishing false information to the College.
8.1.27 Engaging in expression which is obscene, libelous or slanderous, or which
so incites students as to create a clear and present danger of the
commission of unlawful acts on College premises, or the violation of
lawful College regulations, or the substantial disruption of the orderly
operation of the College.
8.1.28 Persistent, serious misconduct where other means of correction have failed
to bring about proper conduct.
8.1.29 Unauthorized preparation, giving, selling, transfer, distribution, or
publication, for any commercial purpose, of any contemporaneous
recording of an academic presentation in a classroom or equivalent site of
instruction, including but not limited to handwritten or typewritten class
notes, except as permitted by any district policy or administrative
procedure.
8.1.30 The use by a student of any electronic listening or recording device in any
classroom without the prior consent of the instructor, except as necessary to
provide reasonable auxiliary aids and academic adjustments to a student
with a disability.
8.1.31 Disengaging smoke or fire detection equipment including tampering with
fire or safety equipment, including pull stations, fire extinguishers, fire
hoses, smoke detectors, alarm horns and bells or any other fire or safety
items, or failure to vacate facilities during fire drills or fire or other
emergencies when directed to do so by District or public safety
representatives.
8.1.32 Initiation of or participation in hate violence.
8.1.33 Solicitation or acceptance of money or other thing of value as an
inducement, encouragement, or reward for intercollegiate participation in
violation of Education Code, section 67361 or false declarations regarding
eligibility for participation in intercollegiate athletics under Education
Code, section 67362;
8.1.34 The offering of any inducement or thing of value to influence the award of
any grade or to alter any official College record.
8.2
Sanctions
Any time a sanction is specifically provided for herein, the employee or officer
authorized to impose such sanctions may impose a lesser sanction. For the
purposes of this rule, expulsion is the most severe sanction, followed by
suspension, probation, and written and oral warning. A student may be given an
interim suspension and, subsequently, may be subjected to further disciplinary
action by the College, up to and including expulsion, if such further sanction is
found to be appropriate in light of the conduct of the student. In all such cases, the
fact of the earlier sanction shall be taken into consideration in determining the
extent of any further sanctions. Disciplinary actions will be enforced by the
College. Consequently, each campus, education center, or instructional site within
the District will honor sanctions imposed by the College.
8.2.1 Individual Sanctions.
8.2.1.1
Warning - a written or oral notice to the student that continuation
or repetition of certain conduct may be cause for disciplinary
action under this regulation.
8.2.1.2
Probation - a reprimand for violation of specified regulations.
Probation is for a designated period of time and includes the
probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student is
found to be violating any institutional regulation(s). If a student
violates any condition of probation or again is charged with a
violation of the standards of student conduct during the
probationary period, such action shall be grounds for revocation
of the student's probationary status and for further disciplinary
action to be taken in accordance with this regulation.
8.2.1.3
Loss of Privilege - a denial of specified privileges for a
designated period of time. This may include, but is not limited to,
access to facilities, services or offices or participation in clubs,
organizations, activities, or College-sponsored events.
8.2.1.4
Restitution - a requirement of any student who has caused nonaccidental damage to College property to pay the College the
cost of replacing or repairing the property in question. The
College may withhold, after appropriate written notice to the
student, grades, transcripts, certificates, diplomas, registration
privileges, or any combination thereof from any student who
fails to repay or refuses to repay any valid debt owed to the
College (Education Code Section 72237 Title 5, section 59410)
8.2.1.5
Community Service - the performance of community service as a
sanction for misconduct. Determination of the type of work to be
performed, the number of hours of service, and the responsibility
for supervising the service will be made in consultation with the
CSSO.
8.2.1.6
Withdrawal from class - an administrative withdrawal with
consequent loss of tuition and fees from a class, classes, or
program.
NOTE: Combined with 8.2.1.9 College suspension.
8.2.1.7
Limited Access - an administrative restriction to selected
parts/locations of campus buildings.
8.2.1.8
Other penalties - the student may be denied a transcript or degree
until all of the obligations specified by a disciplinary body are
met or other penalties as may be imposed as ones determined to
fit the misconduct.
NOTE: While this is an interesting sanction, it is not clear that a degree (for example) can be
denied once it is earned. For example, Title 5, section 55072 requires a Board to award a
certificate “to any student who has completed the prescribed curriculum leading to that
certificate. . . .”
8.2.1.9
College suspension - the separation of the student with
consequent loss of tuition and fees from any or all classes and
activities at the College for a definite period of time, after which
the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may be
specified (Title 5, section 76031).
8.2.1.10 College expulsion - the permanent separation with consequent
loss of tuition and fees of the student from the College.
8.2.1.11 Discretionary Sanctions - a work assignment, service to the
College or neighboring communities, or other related
discretionary assignments (such assignments must have the prior
approval of the disciplinary advisor).
NOTE: Community service is already an option under 8.2.1.5.
8.2.1.12 Counseling or Education Seminars - the requirement to
participate in counseling seminars or educational workshops in
lieu of, or in addition to, the imposition of sanctions.
8.2.1.13 Revocation of Admission or Degree - the admission to the
College may be revoked based on fraud, misrepresentation or
other forms of misconduct related to the admissions process. The
granting of a degree by the College may be revoked based on
fraud, misrepresentation or other forms of misconduct related to
obtaining the degree.
8.2.1.14 Deactivation - the loss of privileges, including College
recognition, for a specified period of time for any student club,
group, or organization.
8.2.1.15 Mental Health Clearance: A mental health clearance is a
restriction that requires a student to obtain the opinion of a
mental health professional indicating whether the student (a)
presents a danger to himself/herself or others or (b) is likely to
repeat the same or similar misconduct. A student shall not be
required to provide a mental health clearance unless such
requirement is imposed by the College’s Student Conduct
Review committee or Behavior Intervention Team.
NOTE: This sanction is problematic for legal and ethical reasons.
8.2.1.16 Loss of housing on District property or housing affiliated with the
District.
NOTE: If a student is suspended or expelled, removal from District housing should also be
an option, but this needs to be coordinated with the housing agreement/rules. There might
also be instances when a student is allowed to continue classes, but should be removed from
the residence halls.
8.2.1.17 Loss of institutional financial aid or scholarships and/or loss of state
financial aid pursuant to Education Code, section 69810 et seq.
NOTE: The loss of “state financial aid” is an option under Education Code, section 69810 et
seq. Sections 69810 – 69813 present a rather complicated scheme that applies if a student is
alleged to have committed “any act likely to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the activities of
the campus and was convicted of a public offense in connection therewith, or is found to have
willfully and knowingly disrupted the orderly operation of the campus, or has been
suspended from an institution of higher education for these acts. . . .” The accused student
must be notified that he/she may lose state financial aid and must be given an opportunity to
present “evidence of mitigating circumstances” at a hearing. If this sanction is pursued, it
must be coordinated with the existing student discipline process to be sure that the specifics
of section 69810 et seq. (which we have not completely described above), can be observed.
The affected student could lose eligibility for state financial aid for the “ensuing two
academic years.” It appears that the ineligibility would follow the student if he/she
attempted to enroll in another institution of higher education during the period of
restriction. “State financial aid” means “any assistance given or guaranteed by the state
that is predicated on attendance at an institution of higher education.” This is a potentially
very powerful sanction, and must be carefully reviewed to ensure that it is properly imposed.
Including it as a potential sanction is the first step towards having it as an option.
8.3
Disruptive Classroom Behavior
8.3.1 Instructors
Course instructors at College of the Redwoods Community College
District have the professional responsibility and authority to maintain
order in instructional settings, which include but are not limited to
classrooms, libraries, group meetings, tutorials, lab sessions, office hours,
and off-campus venues. To assure the best presentation of the course
material, a course instructor shall determine the manner and times during
which students may ask questions, request clarification or express
opinions or points of view in the instructional setting.
8.3.2 Students
Student behavior or speech that disrupts the instructional setting or is clearly
disrespectful of the instructor or fellow students will not be
tolerated. Disruptive conduct may include, but is not limited to: rude or
disrespectful behavior; unwarranted interruptions; failure to adhere to
instructor's directions; vulgar or obscene language; slurs or other forms of
intimidation; physically or verbally abusive behavior.
8.3.3 Records
Instructors are advised to keep careful written records regarding any
incident of disruptive behavior, including dates, times, names of those
present, and details of the incident. Instructors should inform their
department chair or supervising faculty and the CSSO Office of any such
incidents and provide written documentation, if requested. The parties
involved, in conjunction with the department chair or supervising faculty
and appropriate administrator, should may strive for acceptable solutions or
mediate appropriate intervention strategies.
8.3.4 Removal from Class
Any faculty member may, for good cause, order a student removed from
his or her class for the day of the removal and the next class meeting
(Education Code Section 76032).
The faculty member shall immediately report the removal to the
appropriate immediate administrator and the CSSO or designee. The
CSSO or designee shall arrange for a conference between the student and
the faculty member regarding the removal. If the faculty member or the
student requests, the CSSO or designee shall attend the conference.
The student shall not be returned to the class during the period of the
removal without the concurrence of the faculty member. Nothing herein
will prevent the CSSO or designee from recommending further
disciplinary procedures in accordance with these procedures based on the
facts which led to the removal.
8.3.5 Students Who May Present a Danger to Themselves or Others
The College seeks to promote a safe environment where students and
employees may participate in the educational process without
compromising their health, safety or welfare. The Code of Conduct
prohibits a student from engaging in violent conduct and threatening
behaviors toward any member of the College community, including a
student’s threat to harm him-or-herself. In cases of this type, the special
procedures set out in section 8.3.6 may be used to attempt to determine if
the student (1) presents a danger to himself/herself or others, and/or (2) is
likely to repeat the misconduct. All threats or threats to do violence must
be taken seriously and responded to immediately.
8.3.6 Responding to Student Conduct Involving Threats or Violence
Any College employee, student, or visitor who observes or otherwise
becomes aware of violent or threatening student conduct, including a
student’s threat to injure himself/herself, or any other student conduct that
indicates that the student may present a danger to himself/herself or others,
should do the following:
In the case of an emergency, immediately contact the College’s Security
office by calling the emergency number 707- 476-4111. In severe cases,
call 911. In these cases, Security will write an incident report to be filed
in situations where an incident report is deemed warranted.
In cases that do not involve an immediate emergency, promptly file an
incident report with Public Safety or inform the campus or site
administrator.
In the event of any threat on a person's life, whether spoken or written, the
following procedure will be undertaken even if the person hearing/seeing
the threat does not believe it is viable:
The police will be immediately called.
The person(s) threatened will be immediately informed.
The person(s) doing the threatening will be referred to a
psychologist/psychiatrist/counselor for evaluation as to the viability of the
threat and a recommendation made to the District.
A letter of immediate suspension will be issued and conditions placed
upon the person(s) return.
Parents of minor students will be notified of the person(s) behavior (if
FERPA conditions are met) and violation of the college's code of
conduct.
The College will continue to follow-up with faculty, staff, law
enforcement, parents, etc. and communicate essential information to one
another.
9.0
Immediate Suspension and Denial of Access
9.1
Immediate Suspension
The President/Superintendent may impose an immediate suspension on a student
only where such action is required in order to protect lives or property and to
ensure the maintenance of order on the campus or at a campus function. To the
extent the circumstances reasonably permit, the District's legal advisor will be
consulted on the issue of whether an immediate suspension is appropriate.
Immediate notice of such suspension shall be given to the student either orally or
in writing. Such notice shall advise the student of the right to a hearing.
Within 48 hours of ordering an immediate suspension, the President/Superintendent
or designee shall forward written notice to the student of the basis for the action.
Such notice shall be addressed to the student's last known address and/or email
address and shall advise the student of a right to a hearing and the time and location
of such hearing. Unless the student agrees otherwise, such hearing shall be held no
later than thirty (30) ten (10) days following suspension.
9.2
Withdrawal of Consent to Remain on Campus
The CSSO or his/her designee President/Superintendent, or person designated by
him or her to maintain order may notify a student that the consent to remain on
campus or other facility under the control of the College has been withdrawn
whenever there is reasonable cause to believe that such person has willfully
disrupted the orderly operation of the campus or facility.
Whenever consent is withdrawn by any authorized officer or employee other than
the President/Superintendent, such officer or employee shall, as soon as is
reasonably possible, submit a written report to the President/Superintendent , or, in
the absence of the President/Superintendent, to a person designated by him or her
for the purpose of reviewing the withdrawal of consent to remain on campus. Such
report shall contain all of the following:
9.2.1 Description of the person from whom consent was withdrawn, including,
if available, the person's name, address, and telephone number.
9.2.2 A statement of the facts giving rise to the withdrawal.
If the President/Superintendent or designee the person designated by him or her
for the purpose of reviewing the withdrawal of consent to remain on campus, upon
reviewing the report submitted by the person authorized to maintain order, finds
that there was reasonable cause to believe that such person has willfully disrupted
the orderly operation of the campus or facility, he or she may enter written
confirmation upon the report of the action taken by the officer or employee.
If the President/Superintendent or designee person designated by the
President/Superintendent in his or her absence to review the withdrawal of consent
to remain on campus does not confirm the action of the officer or
employee authorized to withdraw consent within 24 hours after the time the consent
was withdrawn, the action of the officer or employee shall be deemed void and of
no force or effect.
The notice given to the student may be given orally and/or in writing and shall
advise the student of the right to a hearing as set out herein.
In no case shall summary withdrawal of consent under this Article be withdrawn
for longer than fourteen (14) days from the date upon which the consent was
initially withdrawn. During the fourteen (14) day period, the student from whom
consent to remain on campus was withdrawn may file a written request for a
hearing to the Office of the President/Superintendent. Such hearing shall be held
within seven (7) days of receipt before a hearing officer selected by the
President/Superintendent.
Consent to return to the campus within the maximum 14-day period shall be
reinstated by the President/Superintendent whenever he or she has reason to
believe that the presence of the student from whom consent was withdrawn will
not constitute a substantial and material threat to the orderly operation of the
campus or facility.
9.3
Denial of Access
After a hearing, any suspension or expulsion based on conduct that disrupted the
orderly operation of a campus or other facility and that also violates a provision of
a California statute may include denial of access to the campus or facility as a
condition of such suspension or expulsion for the period of the suspension or in
the case of expulsion for a period not to exceed one year (Penal Code, Section
626.2). A student who willfully and knowingly enters the campus or facility
during the period for which access has been denied is guilty of a misdemeanor
pursuant to Penal Code, Section 626.2. In the case of a suspension, such entry
may be grounds for further disciplinary action.
10.0
Fees, Denial of Aid and Readmission, and Student Statement
10.1 Fees
No fees paid by or for a student for the semester, summer session, or other term in
which he or she is suspended or expelled shall be refunded, except as may be
required by law. If the student is readmitted before the close of the semester,
summer session, or other term in which he or she is suspended, the student will not
be charged any additional fees as a result of the suspension.
10.2
Admission or readmission
Admission or readmission may be denied to any person who, while not enrolled
as a student, commits such acts which, were he or she enrolled as a student, would
be the basis for disciplinary proceedings suspension or expulsion under this
regulation. In addition, admission or readmission may be denied to any person who,
while a student, commits acts that are subject to disciplinary action suspension or
expulsion pursuant to this regulation. Any conduct for which admission or
readmission may be denied must be related to a College activity or College
attendance. Appeals regarding denial of admission or readmission shall be made to
the CSSO or designee.
10.3 If a student’s record includes information concerning any disciplinary action taken by
the College, the student may include in the record a written statement or response
concerning the disciplinary action.
NOTE. Any student who is disciplined has notice of the right once he/she is provided with a
copy of the procedure.
References:
California Education Code Sections 66017, 66300, 66301, 72122,
76030 et seq; Accreditation Standard II.A.7.b
Approved: February 1980
Revised: May 5, 2015
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BP 6800
Board Policy
Safety
The President/Superintendent shall establish administrative procedures to ensure the safety of
employees and students on District sites, including the following:
•
Compliance with the United States Department of Transportation regulations
implementing the Federal Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991.
Specifically, the District shall comply with the regulations of the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) and, if applicable, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).
Compliance with these policies and procedures may be a condition of employment.
•
Establishment of an Injury and Illness Prevention Program in compliance with applicable
OSHA regulations and state law. These procedures shall promote an active and
aggressive program to reduce and/or control safety and health risks.
•
Establishment of a Hazardous Material Communications Program, which shall include
review of all chemicals or materials received by the District for hazardous properties,
instruction for employees and students on the safe handling of such materials, and proper
disposal methods for hazardous materials.
•
Prohibition of the use of tobacco in all public buildings.
References:
49 Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 40 and 655; Title 8 Section 3203; 29 Code of
Federal Regulations 1910.101 et seq.; Health & Safety Code Section 104420
Replaces former Board of Trustees Policy No. 817/6801, sunsetted
Adopted by Board of Trustees: MM DD, YYYY
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT AP 6800
Safety
Definitions – Prevention activities increase awareness and minimize the potential for crisis in the
workplace. Training is essential for all staff to learn how to recognize early warning signs, so
that appropriate intervention can be provided for identified areas of conflict in the workplace.
Crisis or conflict constitutes any inappropriate or unreasonable disruption that interferes with the
normal functioning of your work.
Acts of violence include any physical action, whether intentional or reckless, that harms or
threatens the safety of self, another individual or property.
A threat of violence includes any behavior that by its very nature could be interpreted by a
reasonable person as intent to cause physical harm to self, another individual or property.
Workplace includes off-campus locations as well as college-sponsored activities where faculty,
staff, or student employees are engaged in college business or locations where incidents occur as
a result of the person's relationship to the college community.
Emergencies – Any employee shall immediately report any situation that threatens life or
property and demands an immediate response of police, fire, or medical personnel by first dialing
911 and then notifying law enforcement.
Equipment and Sanitation – Should the duties of an employee require the use of equipment to
ensure the safety of the employee, the District shall furnish such equipment. Complaints related
to health safety, sanitation and working conditions shall be forwarded to the employee’s
supervisor or the Facilities Manager for review and recommendation.
Crisis and Conflict Intervention – Any employee experiencing an unsafe work condition
should immediately contact his/her supervisor or the Director of Public Safety, and if appropriate
local law enforcement. The supervisor shall immediately notify the Director of Public Safety,
and if appropriate local law enforcement, about any acts or threats of violence. The employee
will be provided consultation regarding resources available to resolve the unsafe work condition.
It is the responsibility of all employees to immediately report threats, acts of violence or any
other behavior which deliberately hurts or harms another person at the college to their immediate
supervisor and the Director of Public Safety, and if appropriate local law enforcement. Such
reports will be promptly and thoroughly investigated.
Restraining Orders/Court Orders – An employee shall notify law enforcement of any
restraining orders/court orders when named as a plaintiff, and provide a copy of the order to law
enforcement, the Director of Public Safety, and the Director of Human Resources. In the event
the supervisor is informed by an employee of a restraining order, the supervisor will law
enforcement, the Director of Public Safety, and the Director of Human Resources, to ensure they
are aware of it, and that they have a copy of the restraining order on file.
References:
Cal/OSHA; Labor Code Sections 6300 et seq.; Title 8 Section 3203; Code of Civil Procedure
Section 527.8; Penal Code Section 273.6
Adopted by Board of Trustees: MM DD, YYYY
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Board Policy
BP 6801
Number Update only from Board of Trustees Policy No. 817
INJURY AND ILLNESS PREVENTION PROGRAM (SB 198)
Under the supervision of the President/Superintendent, the Redwoods Community College
District will establish, implement, and maintain an effective injury and illness prevention
program. The plan will comply with General Industry Safety Orders 3203, Injury and Illness
Prevention Program; also known as SB 198, Statutes of 1989, Chapter 1369, Labor Code 6401.7.
The program shall be in writing and include the following:
1. Establish the Injury and Illness Prevention Program and identity of the person(s) or
committee with authority and responsibility for implementing the program.
2. A system or combination of systems to ensure that employees comply with Occupational
Safety and Health work practices. This may include, but is not limited to, the following:
Employee Incentives
Training Programs
Disciplinary Action
3. A system or combination of systems of communication which accomplishes the
following:
a. Provides a means for the employer to readily communicate to employees on matters
relating to Occupational Safety and Health.
b. Encourages employees to inform the employer of workplace hazards without fear of
reprisal. This may include, but may not be limited to, the following:
Training Programs
Meetings or Workshops
Written Communications
Workplace Posting
Safety committees
"Suggestion Boxes"
4. A system or combination of systems used to identify and evaluate workplace hazards
during scheduled periodic inspections to identify unsafe work conditions and practices.
Workplace inspections are required for the following:
a. When the program is first established.
b. Whenever new substances, processes, procedures, or equipment are introduced to the
workplace and represent new Occupational Health and Safety hazards.
c. Whenever the employer receives notification of a new or previously unrecognized
hazard.
5. Methods and procedures for correcting unsafe or unhealthful conditions and work
practices in a timely manner. Priorities for correction are to be based on the severity of
the hazard.
6. Procedures to investigate occupational injury, illness, or exposure to hazardous
substances.
7. An Occupational Health and Safety Training Program to instruct employees in the
following:
a. General Safety and Health work practices.
b. Specific hazards unique to each employee's job assignment.
The Training Program must include the following:
a. Methods to ensure that all supervisors are knowledgeable about the Safety and Health
hazards which employees under their immediate direction and control may be exposed.
b. Required training is provided for all employees when the Training Program is first
established.
c. Required training is provided to all new employees and to all employees given a new job
assignment.
Former Board of Trustees Policy No. 817, number change only on June 5, 2012
Adopted by Board of Trustees: September 9, 1991
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Board Policy
BP 6850
Number Update only from Board of Trustees Policy No. 815
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS PLAN
The Redwoods Community College District will develop and maintain a comprehensive Hazard
Communication Plan in compliance with the Federal OSHA Hazard Communication Standard
and the California General Safety Orders, Section 5194, Hazard Communication.
The Redwoods Community College District Hazard Communication Plan intends to provide
information about chemical hazards and other hazardous substances, the control of hazards and
employee training at the District campus locations.
The following areas will be covered in detail:

The name of the person or persons responsible for the plan and for communicating it to
the employees.

The name of the person or persons responsible for employee information and training,
labeling procedures, Material Safety Data Sheets, record keeping, etc., pursuant to the
standard.

A comprehensive list of hazardous substances at various campus locations.

The methods to be used for compliance with the requirements of the standard pertaining
to:
 Labeling and other forms of warning.
 Material Safety Data Sheets.
 Employee information and training.

The methods used to inform employees of the potential hazards of non-routine tasks and
the hazards of working on unlabeled pipes.

The methods the District will use to inform outside contractors, who may have employees
working at campus locations, of hazardous substances to which the contractor's
employees may be exposed while performing their work. The method the District will use
to inform its employees of any hazardous substances which a contractor may bring into
the Campus locations, to the extent this is applicable.
Former Board of Trustees Policy No. 815, number change only on June 5, 2012
Adopted by Board Trustees on August 6, 1990
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT AP 6850
Administrative Procedure
Number Update only from Administrative Regulation No. 815.01
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS PLAN
INTRODUCTION
The Redwoods Community College District will comply with requirements for a Hazard
Communication Program to enhance our employees' health and safety.
The Redwoods Community College District will provide information about chemical hazards
and other hazardous substances, and the control of hazards via our comprehensive Hazard
Communication Program.
The following program will accomplish this objective.
1. CONTAINER LABELING
No container of hazardous substances will be released for use until the following label
information is verified:
 Containers are clearly labeled as to the contents
 Appropriate hazard warnings are noted
 The name and address of the manufacturer are listed
This responsibility will be delegated by the President/Superintendent. To further ensure
that employees are aware of the hazards of materials used in their work area, it is our
policy to label secondary containers.
2. MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS (MSDS)
Copies of MSDS for hazardous substances will be maintained. Incoming data sheets will
be reviewed.
MSDS will be reviewed for completeness by Purchasing/Warehouse. If an MSDS is
missing or obviously incomplete, a new MSDS will be requested from the manufacturer.
Cal/OSHA will be notified if a complete MSDS is not received. MSDS are available to
all employees in their work area for review during each work shift. If MSDS are not
available or new hazardous substances in use do not have MSDS, the employee shall
contact Purchasing or the Warehouse immediately.
3. EMPLOYEE INFORMATION AND TRAINING
Employees are required to attend health and safety orientations for information and
training on the following:
 An overview of the requirements contained in the Hazard Communication
Regulation, including their rights under the Regulation.
 Inform employees of any operations in their work area where hazardous substances
are present.
 Location and availability of the written hazard communication program.
 Physical and health effects of the hazardous substances.
 Methods and observation techniques used to determine the presence or release of
hazardous substances in the work area.
 How to lessen or prevent exposure to these hazardous substances through usage of
control, work practices and personal protective equipment.
 Steps the college has taken to lessen or prevent exposure to these substances.
 Emergency and first aid procedures to follow if employees are exposed to hazardous
substances.
 How to read labels and review MSDS to obtain *appropriate hazard information.
*NOTE: It is critically important that all employees understand the training. Additional
questions will be referred to the Personnel Office.
4. LIST OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES
A list of all known hazardous substances present at campus locations will be maintained.
5. HAZARDOUS NON-ROUTINE TASKS
It is the responsibility of the employee and his/her supervisor to obtain/understand
information about hazards to which they may be exposed during the activity.
This information will include:
 Specific hazards.
 Protective/safety measures which must be utilized.
 Measures the college has taken to lessen the hazards including ventilation, respirators,
presence of another employee and emergency procedures.
Examples of non-routine tasks performed by employees:
TASK Cleaning Sewage Tank
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE Sodium Hydroxide
6. HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES IN UNLABELED PIPES (if applicable)
To ensure that our employees who work on unlabeled pipes have been informed as to the
hazardous substances contained within, the following policy has been established:
Prior to starting work on unlabeled pipes our employees are to contact their supervisor for
information about:
 The hazardous substance in the pipe.
 Potential hazards.
 Safety precautions which shall be taken.
7. INFORMING CONTRACTORS
To ensure that outside contractors work safely in our plant, it is the responsibility of the
contractors to obtain the following information before starting work:
 Hazardous substances to which they may be exposed while on the job site.
 Precautions the employees may take to lessen the possibility of exposure by usage
of appropriate protective measure.
Compliance with this policy will be monitored.
Former Administrative Regulation No. 815.01, number change only on June 5, 2012
Adopted by Board of Trustees: August 6, 1990
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT AP 6850
Administrative Procedure
Hazardous Materials
The District must post at least one Cal/OSHA Notice in each location where business is
conducted in a conspicuous place where notices to employees are customarily posted.
Where employers are engaged in activities that are physically dispersed such as construction or
transportation, the notice required shall be posted at each location to which employees report
each day.
Where employees do not usually work at, or report to, a single location the notice or notices shall
be posted at the location or locations from which the employees operate to carry out their
activities.
Each employer shall take steps to insure that such notices are not altered, defaced, or covered by
other material.
The notice shall inform employees that employers who use any substance listed as a hazardous
substance by Cal/OSHA regulations must provide employees with information on the contents of
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or equivalent information about
the substance which trains employees to use the substance safely.
The notice must also state that the employer is required to make available on a timely and
reasonable basis a MSDS/SDS on each hazardous substance in the workplace upon request of an
employee, collective bargaining representative, or an employee's physician.
The notice must also state that employees have the right to see and copy the medical record and
other records of employee exposure to potentially toxic materials or harmful physical agents.
Container Labeling
No container of hazardous substances, including secondary containers, will be released for use
until the following label information is verified:
•
Containers are clearly labeled as to the contents.
•
Appropriate hazard warnings are noted.
•
The name and address of the manufacturer are listed.
•
To ensure that our employees who work on unlabeled pipes have been informed as to the
hazardous substances contained within, the following policy has been established:
•
Prior to starting work on unlabeled pipes our employees are to contact their supervisor for
information about:
o The hazardous substance in the pipe.
o Potential hazards.
o Safety precautions which shall be taken.
Employee Information and Training
Employees are required to attend health and safety orientations and periodic training as required
based on their position and duties for information and training, including but not limited to the
following:
•
Training programs as required by Law, regulation, and the District’s insurance carriers.
•
Defensive driver training.
•
Hazard communication regulation.
•
Operations in work areas where hazardous substances are present.
•
Location and availability of the written hazard communication program.
•
Physical and health effects of the hazardous substances.
•
Methods and observation techniques used to determine the presence or release of hazardous
substances in the work area.
•
How to lessen or prevent exposure to these hazardous substances through usage of control,
work practices and personal protective equipment.
•
Steps the college has taken to lessen or prevent exposure to these substances.
•
Emergency and first aid procedures to follow if employees are exposed to hazardous
substances.
Hazardous Non-Routine Tasks
It is the responsibility of the employee and his/her supervisor to obtain/understand information
about hazards to which they may be exposed during the activity. This information will include:
•
Specific hazards.
•
Protective/safety measures which must be utilized.
•
Measures the college has taken to lessen the hazards including ventilation, respirators,
presence of another employee and emergency procedures.
To ensure that outside contractors work safely on District facilities, it is the responsibility of the
contractors to obtain the following information before starting work:
•
Hazardous substances to which they may be exposed while on the job site.
•
Precautions the employees may take to lessen the possibility of exposure by usage of
appropriate protective measure.
Eye Protection
For safety and eye protection in classes or course work that poses a hazard to eyesight, the
District requires eye protective devices be worn by students, faculty and staff. Faculty and staff
are responsible for the implementation of this regulation.
Eye protective devices shall be worn in courses and activities including, but not limited to,
vocational or applied technical shops or laboratories; fine arts and crafts laboratories; chemistry,
physics, biology, or other such science laboratories; or during any other such activity where the
use of hazardous or infectious materials or activities can cause injury to the eyes. Eye protective
devices shall be worn by students and visitors engaged in or observing such activities. Eye
protective devices shall be supplied by the students.
For purposes of this regulation, the eye protective devices utilized shall be industrial quality,
which meet the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for "Practice for
Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection" (Z87.1-1979) or for subsequent
standards adopted by ANSI.
If the District is required to conduct tests or to engage in monitoring or measuring to determine
employee exposure to hazards by specific standards it shall notify the affected employee or
employees or their representative, prior to commencement of the date, time and place of the
testing, monitoring, or measuring of employee exposure.
The District must provide an employee or employees, or their representatives with the
opportunity to observe the testing, sampling, monitoring or measuring undertaken pursuant to
such standards.
Whenever any employee has been or is being exposed to toxic materials or harmful physical
agents in concentrations or at levels exceeding those prescribed by applicable standard, order, or
special order, the District must promptly notify any employee so affected in writing of the fact
that the employee has been exposed, and of the corrective action being taken.
References:
Title 8 Sections 340 et seq.
Former Administrative Regulation No. 815.01, number change only on June 5, 2012
Adopted by Board of Trustees: MM DD, YYYY
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 6851
Number Update only from Administrative Regulation No. 811.01
EYE PROTECTION
In the interest of safety and eye protection of students engaged in classes or course work that
poses a hazard to eyesight, the District requires eye protective devices be worn by students.
Faculty and staff engaged in the instruction or supervision of students are responsible for the
implementation of this regulation.
Eye protective devices shall be worn in courses and activities including, but not limited to,
vocational or applied technical shops or laboratories; fine arts and crafts laboratories; chemistry,
physics, biology, or other such science laboratories; or during any other such activity where the
use of hazardous or infectious materials or activities can cause injury to the eyes. Eye protective
devices shall be worn by students and visitors engaged in or observing such activities. Eye
protective devices shall be supplied by the students.
Any activity or the use of hazardous materials likely to cause injury to the eyes includes, but is
not necessarily limited, to the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Working with hot or molten metal
Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding, or stamping of any solid materials
Heat treating, tempering, or kiln firing of any metal or other materials
Gas or electric arc welding
Repairing or servicing of any vehicles, or any other machinery or equipment
Working with hot liquids or solids or with chemicals which are flammable, toxic,
corrosive, irritating, sensitizing, or reactive
7. Where splashes, spray, splatter, or droplets of blood or other potentially infectious
materials may be generated
For purposes of this regulation, the eye protective devices utilized shall be industrial quality
which meet the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for "Practice for
Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection" (Z87.1-1979) or for subsequent
standards adopted by ANSI.
Former Administrative Regulation No. 811.01, number change only on June 5, 2012
Approved: May 10, 1996
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 7400
SUMMARY OF RULES APPLICABLE TO ALL TRAVEL:
1. ALL TRAVEL MUST BE APPROVED IN ADVANCE AS FURTHER DESCRIBED
BELOW.
2. ONLY EXPENDITURES REQUIRED FOR COLLEGE BUSINESS WILL BE
REIMBURSED.
3. ONLY USUAL, CUSTOMARY, AND REASONABLE COSTS OF NECESSARY
EXPENDITURES WILL BE REIMBURSED.
4. THE REIMBURSEMENT RATE FOR ALL TRAVEL IS BASED ON THE LEAST COST
OR MOST ECONOMICAL MODE OF TRAVEL, REGARDLESS OF HOW THE
EMPLOYEE ACTUALLY CHOOSES TO TRAVEL.
5. ANY CASE OF SUSPECTED ABUSE OR MISUSE OF DISTRICT TRAVEL EXPENSE
ACCOUNTS MUST BE REPORTED TO THE CHIEF BUSINESS OFFICER.
6. THE PRESIDENT/SUPERINTENDENT MAY TEMPORARILY SUSPEND TRAVEL
AUTHORIZATIONS AT ANY TIME PURSUANT TO ACCREDITATION STANDARD
IIID AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT 17 – FINANCIAL RESOURCES.
Travel Rules:
1. Travel may be authorized in advance to attend a conference, workshop, or meeting, or to
perform other necessary services for the District at the District’s expense.
2. The District will reimburse the usual, customary and reasonable costs of necessary expenses
for District business.
2.1.
Expenses not required for District business and expenses in excess of the least cost or
most economical option shall not be claimed for reimbursement and will not be
reimbursed.
2.2.
Standard rates are noted below for certain categories below.
3. Lodging: Itemized receipts required.
3.1.
Employees shall request a discounted room rate (government rate, state rate, etc.), if
available.
3.2.
Rooms will be reimbursed at the single occupancy rate if one employee is in the room
or the double occupancy rate will be split between each employee’s travel
authorization when shared with another District employee.
3.3.
On check-in the employee shall present a completed Hotel/Motel Transient Occupancy
Tax Waiver (waiver) form. Waiver forms are available on the Business Office website
and the California Department of General Services website. Acceptance of the waiver
form by the hotel/motel is strictly voluntary, and employees may lodge at a
hotel/motel that does not accept the waiver form.
3.4.
Non-commercial lodging shall be reimbursed at $15.00 per night.
3.5.
The room cost must be noted on the Pre-Trip Authorization. Whenever possible, this
fee should be paid for with a District card instead of a check.
4. Meals: No receipts required as standard reimbursement rates always apply.
4.1.
Meal allowances are provided up to 80% of the Federal Standard Per Diem Rate. For
2016, the Federal Standard rate is $51.00. CR’s $3641.00 per day based onreflects a
rate of 89.00 for breakfast, $1011.00 for lunch, and $1821.00 for dinner.
4.2.
No reimbursement will be provided for any meal that was included in a conference,
workshop, or meeting fee, or provided by the hotel/motel, including continental
breakfast.
4.3.
Meal allowances on the initial day of travel are payable if it was necessary to leave the
work site, or residence on or before the following times 7:00 a.m. for breakfast, 11:00
a.m. for lunch, and 5:00 p.m. for dinner.
4.4.
Meal allowances on the day of return are payable if the return to the work site or
residence, exclusive of eating time, was on or after the following times 9:00 a.m. for
breakfast, 1:00 p.m. for lunch, and 7:00 p.m. for dinner.
5. Incidentals: Itemized receipts required for amounts in excess of $5.00 total per day,
otherwise no receipts required.
5.1.
Miscellaneous expenses such as telephone, postage, reproduction costs, facsimile
charges, minor supplies, reasonable amount for tips, and internet access.
5.2.
Laundry expenses may be allowable when an employee's absence from regular service
extends beyond five nights.
5.3.
One "safe on arrival" phone call is also allowed, one departure call is allowed, and one
call for any change of plans is allowed.
6. Air Travel: Itemized receipts required.
6.1.
Tickets for air coach and checked baggage shall be purchased at the most economical
rate available. A reminder that the State’s rental car agreement allows for one-way
rentals with no drop-off fee, so an option may be a rental car to Redding, Sacramento,
or San Francisco coupled with air travel to the final destination.
6.2.
The airfare rate must be noted on the Pre-Trip Authorization.
6.3.
Unused, non-refundable tickets must be reported on the Travel
Advance/Reimbursement form with documentation attached. Whenever possible, this
fee should be paid for with a District card instead of a check.
7. All drivers of rental vehicles and private vehicles – State and Federal requirements:
7.1.
All District vehicles and drivers must comply with the California Vehicle Code and
Title 13 (Motor Carrier Safety).
7.2.
All drivers of District-owned or leased vehicles, both on and off campus must have a
current license appropriate for the vehicle to be driven.
7.3.
Any vehicle that carries more than ten (10) persons including the driver is defined in
the Vehicle Code as a bus. (Ca.V.C. Section 233). All operators of buses must have a
current Class B license and a current medical certificate (Ca, V.C.12505) on file with
the District. Personal vehicles shall not be used to transport more than 10 persons
including the driver for District business.
7.4.
The District shall not operate or lease a 15-passenger van unless the driver holds both
a valid class B driver's license, and an endorsement for operating a passenger
transportation vehicle issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. (Public Contract
Code § 10326.1) A "15-passenger van" is any van manufactured to accommodate 15
passengers, including the driver, regardless of whether that van has been altered to
accommodate fewer than 15 passengers.
7.5.
The District will comply with the United States Department of Transportation
regulations implementing the Federal Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act
of 1991. Specifically, the District must comply with the regulations of the Federal
Highway Administration (FHWA) and, if applicable, the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA). (Ca.V.C. 34520). All individuals who operate the following
motor vehicles owned or leased by the District shall participate in a District approved
drug testing program:
7.5.1. A vehicle with a gross combination weight of at least 26,001 pounds inclusive
of a towed unit with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds;
7.5.2. A vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of at least 26,001 pounds;
7.5.3. A vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; or
7.5.4. A vehicle used to transport those hazardous materials found in the Hazardous
Materials Transportation Act.
7.6.
The District shall comply with and use as the primary reference the United States
Department of Transportation Title 49, Code of Federal Regulation, part 395, which
regulates driver’s Hours of Service or (HOS). (Vehicle Code; 233, 34501):
Passenger-Carrying Drivers
10-Hour Driving Limit: May drive a maximum of 10 hours after 8 consecutive hours off duty.
15-Hour On-Duty Limit: May not drive after having been on duty for 15 hours, following 8
consecutive hours off duty. Off-duty time is not included in the 15-hour period.
60/70-Hour On-Duty Limit: May not drive after 60/70 hours on duty in 7/8 consecutive days.
7.7.
A trip report will be kept with the vehicle/driver during the trip. The driver is
responsible for entering beginning and ending mileages, class or purpose of trip,
budget numbers, and notations of any problems with the vehicle.
7.8.
Prior to commencing travel, all of the following must be met:
7.8.1. An Authorization for Use of District, Rental, or Personal Vehicle form must be
completed and approved by the appropriate supervising administrator.
7.8.2. A copy of current driver’s license must be on file with the District. For use of
private vehicle, current in-force insurance information must be on file.
7.8.3. The employee’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) must be submitted. If any
unacceptable items are noted on the record, then the District travel will not be
authorized. The driver record must be received, reviewed and approved by the
Chief Business Officer or designee prior to individual driving on District
business. If three or more points are on driver’s record, driver will be ineligible
to drive for the District. (Ca.V.C. 12810.3). License suspensions make driver
ineligible for driving until such time that DMV records indicate driver has been
re-licensed. Other negative items can also make an employee ineligible to drive
on District business, including but not limited to: Driving under the influence of
a controlled substance or alcohol; Any license revoked or cancelled; Leaving
the scene of an accident; Using a motor vehicle to commit a felony.
7.8.4. District approved driver safety training must be completed within the past 48
months.
7.8.5. For all drivers of any bus and all others required to be enrolled in the DMV pull
program: A signed Authorization of Driver Record Information must be on file
(This allows us to enroll them in the DMV Pull program). (Ca.V.C 1808.1).
7.8.6. All vehicles with equipment for transporting the disabled must comply with all
applicable laws and regulations regarding such vehicles.
8. Rental Vehicle and Fuel: Itemized receipts required.
8.1.
Rental vehicles shall be mid-sized cars or smaller, unless the number of passengers or
cargo dictates a larger sized vehicle.
8.2.
Vehicles shall be rented from the District’s approved vendor, and another vendor may
only be used if the approved vendor is unable to provide the necessary transportation
or does not serve the area.
8.3.
For rental cars under the State contract, a District card or direct bill account must be
used. Fuel should be purchased using a District Fuel card whenever possible.
9. Taxi, Tolls, Shuttle, Parking: Itemized receipts required for amounts in excess of $15.00
per day, otherwise no receipts required.
9.1.
Includes taxi fares, bridge tolls, parking fees, parking meter fees, airport shuttle, hotelbus fares, streetcar, local rapid transit and transportation such as bus fare, ferry, or
commuter train. Parking valet charges will only be reimbursed when reasonable and
appropriate, for example when the hotel does not offer self-parking.
10. Private Vehicle Use: Standard mileage reimbursement may be used, otherwise itemized
receipts are required. Effective January 1, 2015, the US General Services Administration rate
per mile is $0.575.
10.1. When employees drive their own vehicles while on District business and are involved
in an accident, they are required by law to use their own liability policy for coverage.
The District liability policy would be used only after the employee's policy limits have
been exceeded. The District does not cover, nor is it responsible for, comprehensive
and collision coverage to the employee's vehicle. Vehicles shall be shared whenever
possible.
10.2. No reimbursements will be paid for any mileage between an employee's work location
and residence. The reimbursement rate shall be not more than the standard mileage
rate as determined by the Internal Revenue Service.
11. Registration Fees: Itemized receipts required.
11.1. All conferences, workshops, and meetings require an agenda, except for District,
Chancellor’s Office, and statewide meetings.
11.2. The registration fee must be noted on the Pre-Trip Authorization. Whenever possible,
this fee should be paid for with a District card instead of a check.
12. Other Business Expenses: Itemized receipts required for amounts in excess of $5.00 per
day, otherwise no receipts required.
12.1. Eligible expenses that do not fall into any of the categories above.
13. Prohibited Expenses: These expenditures are not eligible for reimbursement.
13.1. All expenses when travel is not preauthorized.
13.2. Any expense where all requirements of all Board Policies and Administrative
Procedures are not met.
13.3. Expenses not necessary for the conduct of District business.
13.4. Amounts in excess of usual, customary, and reasonable levels, including excessive
tips.
13.5. Amounts for personal telephone calls beyond those allowed by this Administrative
Procedure.
13.6. Entertainment expenses, radio, television or movie rentals, transportation to or from
places of entertainment and similar facilities.
13.7. Conference-arranged leisure tours or personal side trip expenses.
13.8. Individual membership dues or fees.
13.9. Alcoholic beverages.
13.10. Hair care or shoe shines.
13.11. Traffic or parking citations.
13.12. Any expenditure prohibited by Law, Education Code, or other applicable code.
Pre-Trip Authorization and Reimbursement Procedures
14. Pre-Trip Authorization: All travel must be approved in advance according to the deadlines
in this section.
14.1. All travel must be authorized in writing and in advance according to the deadlines in
this Administrative Procedure and prior to financially committing to any travel
expense.
14.2. The appropriate levels of authority must sign and date the form indicating approval
and certifying budget availability in accordance with Board Policies and
Administrative Procedures;
14.3. All additional requirements of Board Policies and Administrative Procedures must be
met. All requests for preauthorization to travel must be documented by completing a
Travel Advance/Reimbursement Form available on the Business Office website and
obtaining authorization according to these deadlines:
14.3.1. For travel in California: Approval is required at least twenty-one (21) days in
advance by the employee's supervisor and appropriate senior administrator
prior to financially committing to any travel expense.
14.3.2. For US travel outside the State of California: Approval is required at least
twenty-one (21) days in advance by the President/Superintendent in addition to
the employee's supervisor and appropriate senior administrator prior to
financially committing to any travel expense.
14.3.3. For travel outside the United States: Approval is required at least thirty (30)
days in advance by the Board of Trustees in addition to the
President/Superintendent, the employee's supervisor, and appropriate senior
administrator prior to financially committing to any travel expense. Note that
the Board typically only meets monthly, so Board meeting notice requirements
must be met as well.
14.4. Travel requests must be submitted with conference schedules, itineraries, and/or
meeting schedules, as required. Hotel room rates, air travel fares, conference fees and
all other charges known in advance must be noted on the Pre-Trip Travel
Authorization.
15. Travel Advance Payment: Requests for an advance to cover the anticipated cost of travel
shall be submitted on the Travel Advance/Reimbursement form at least twenty-one (21) days
in advance. Each individual shall receive a separate advance to cover only that person's
anticipated expenses.
16. Post-Travel Expense Report: Within fourteen (14) calendar days after the end of the trip, a
Travel Advance/Reimbursement Form must be completed with itemized receipts attached as
appropriate and submitted to the employee’s supervisor for review and approval. Whether or
not a receipt is presented, an expense may be rejected by the Business Office if the
requirements of this administrative procedure were not complied with.
17. Reduced Reimbursements: The employee may request reimbursements that are less than
described in this Administrative Procedure by noting the lesser amount requested on the
Travel Advance/Reimbursement Form. No employee shall be required to request a reduced
reimbursement as a condition of employment.
18. Categorical, Grant, or Other Agency Funded Travel: Travel expenses which are paid or
reimbursed by other than District unrestricted funding sources, may be reimbursed at the
rates established and required by the donor, if different from this Administrative Procedure.
19. Payment for Non-employees: Non-employees, such as community members serving on
advisory committees, may be authorized to travel and incur reasonable expenses as
representatives of the Board. Any expenses incurred as a result of non-employee travel shall
be explicitly approved by the President/Superintendent prior to the expenses being incurred
and reimbursements shall not exceed those described in this Administrative Procedure.
20. Board of Trustees Travel: Board of Trustees members' travel shall be subject to the same
conditions as employee travel.
Flat Rate Reimbursement Option Procedures
21. To streamline travel procedures, travelers have the option to opt for a flat rate reimbursement
for travel of five nights or less. All other requirements of this Administrative Procedure still
apply, except as described in this section. Meal allowances are always reimbursed on a flat
rate basis. A traveler may choose to use some or all of the flat rate reimbursements. If the
flat rate option is exercised for all reimbursement categories, the traveler simply completes
the pre-trip authorization, attaches a workshop or conference itinerary if applicable, obtains
the appropriate approvals, and is reimbursed based on the pre-trip authorization. No post
travel receipts or additional documentation are required.
22. Flat Rate Transportation allowance: Regardless of the mode of travel, the reimbursement
between these cities is as follows. The rates below were calculated at the lowest cost mode
of travel. If the driver chooses to use a District-billed rental car, then the rental fee and other
costs should be billed with receipts, instead of the flat rate option.
City Pair
Miles
Transportation
One Way
each way
Eureka to Crescent
City/Pelican Bay
Eureka to Fort Bragg
94
$54.00
127
$73.00
Eureka to Redding
142
$82.00
Eureka to Sacramento
289
$166.00
Eureka to San Francisco
271
$156.00
Eureka to Klamath-Trinity
76
$44.00
Eureka to Garberville
61
$35.00
Miles
One Way
Transportation
each way
City Pair
Eureka to Crescent City/Pelican
Bay
94
$52.00
Eureka to Fort Bragg
127
$70.00
Eureka to Redding
142
$78.00
Eureka to Sacramento
289
$162.00
Eureka to San Francisco
271
$152.00
Eureka to Klamath-Trinity
76
$43.00
Eureka to Garberville
61
$34.00
23. Flat Rate Lodging allowance: Reimbursement is generally based on the US General
Services Administration (GSA) rates, but is not directly tied to the GSA. Regardless of the
choice of lodging or the actual cost, the following flat rate reimbursements per night,
including all taxes and fees charged by the establishment, are allowed:
City
Lodging Per Night
Crescent City
$89.00
Fort Bragg
$106.00
Redding
$90.00
Sacramento
$112.00
San Francisco
$250.00
Los Angeles
$150.00
San Diego
$140.00
Any other city
$89.00
Non-commercial lodging: All
cities including those listed
above
$15.00
City
Lodging Per Night
Crescent City
$83.00
Fort Bragg
$93.00
Redding
$89.00
Sacramento
$102.00
San Francisco
$172.00
High cost cities: L.A., Napa, San
Diego, San Mateo, Santa Monica,
Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, San Jose,
Yosemite Nat’l Park
$139.00
Any other city
$83.00
Non-commercial lodging: All cities
including those listed above
$15.00
24. Flat Rate Reimbursement Summary: The chart below summarizes the flat rate
reimbursement rates per night for commercial lodging. Standard meal rates may be added to
the figures noted below:
City Pair
Roundtrip
Transport
Lodging
0
$108.00
$0
$108.00
1
$108.00
$89.00
$197.00
Each add’l night
$0
$89.00
Add $89.00
0
$146.00
$0
$146.00
Eureka to Fort Bragg
1
$146.00
$106.00
$252.00
Eureka to Fort Bragg
Each add’l night
$0
$106.00
Add $106.00
Eureka to Crescent
City
Eureka to Crescent
City
Eureka to Crescent
City
Eureka to Fort Bragg
Nights (5
nights max)
Total
Eureka to Redding
0
$164.00
$0
$164.00
Eureka to Redding
1
$164.00
$90.00
$254.00
Eureka to Redding
Each add’l night
$0
$90.00
Add $90.00
Eureka to Sacramento
0
$332
$0
$332.00
Eureka to Sacramento
1
$332
$112.00
$444.00
Eureka to Sacramento
Each add’l night
$0
$112.00
Add $112.00
0
$312
$0
$312.00
1
$312
$250.00
$562.00
Each add’l night
$0
$250.00
Add $250.00
Lodging
Total
Eureka to San
Francisco
Eureka to San
Francisco
Eureka to San
Francisco
City Pair
Nights (5 nights
max)
Roundtrip
Transport
Eureka to Crescent City
0
$104.00
$0
$104.00
Eureka to Crescent City
1
$104.00
$83.00
$187.00
Eureka to Crescent City
Each add’l night
$0
$83.00
Add $83.00
Eureka to Fort Bragg
0
$140.00
$0
$140.00
Eureka to Fort Bragg
1
$140.00
$93.00
$233.00
Eureka to Fort Bragg
Each add’l night
$0
$93.00
Add $93.00
Eureka to Redding
0
$156.00
$0
$156.00
Eureka to Redding
1
$156.00
$89.00
$245.00
Eureka to Redding
Each add’l night
$0
$89.00
Add $89.00
Eureka to Sacramento
0
$324
$0
$324.00
Eureka to Sacramento
1
$324
$102.00
$426.00
Eureka to Sacramento
Each add’l night
$0
$102.00
Add $102.00
Eureka to San Francisco
0
$304
$0
$304.00
Eureka to San Francisco
1
$304
$172.00
$476.00
Eureka to San Francisco
Each add’l night
$0
$172.00
Add $172.00
22.25. The President/Superintendent, Chief Instructional Officer, and Chief Business Officer
may authorize exceptions to this Administrative Procedure.
23.26. The President/Superintendent may temporarily suspend travel authorizations at any time
pursuant to Accreditation Standard IIID and Eligibility Requirement 17 – Financial
Resources.
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Board Policy
Proposed BP 1200
District Mission
College of the Redwoods puts student success first by providing accessible and
relevant outstanding developmental, career technical, and transfer education enhanced
by targeted instructional support strategies. The College partners with the community
to contribute to the economic vitality and lifelong learning needs of its service area. We
The College continually assesses student learning and institutional performance and
practices to embrace diversity, healthy community environment and improve upon the
programs and services we offer, all to promote student learning.
Reference: ACCJC Standard I.A
Adopted: August 15, 1977
Amended: July 12, 2011
Amended:
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 4231
GRADE CHANGES
1.0
Course Grade Challenge
The instructor of the course shall determine the grade to be awarded to each student.
The determination of the student’s grade by the instructor is final in the absence of
mistake, fraud, bad faith or incompetence. Any student who believes he or she has a
grade grievance shall make a reasonable effort to resolve the matter on an informal
basis. If the student’s concern cannot be resolved informally, this procedure outlines the
course grade challenge process. The course grade challenge process is not a legal
proceeding. An observer may attend meetings as support but may not act as legal
counsel. When challenging a grade assigned by an instructor, the burden of proof is on
the student to provide evidence of mistake, fraud, bad faith, or incompetence.
Mistake: an unintentional act, omission or error by the instructor or the college.
Fraud: a deception deliberately practiced in order to secure unfair or unlawful gain.
Bad Faith: disregarding or changing the basis of assigning grades after publication in the
course syllabus or using a system of grading other than that found in the syllabus
without prior notification to the students.
Incompetence: a lack of ability, legal qualification, or fitness to discharge a required
duty
Step 1: Discuss the Issue with the Instructor. Every attempt should be made to discuss the
issue with the instructor. However, if the instructor is not available or the student does
not wish to meet with the instructor, the student may proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: Student Files a Grade Challenge Form. No later than the second week of the academic
semester following the award of the grade, a student may file a grade challenge form and
supporting evidence with the Dean/Director. The Dean/Director will forward a copy of
the completed course grade challenge form and supporting evidence to the instructor.
Step 3: Instructor’s Rebuttal to Grade Challenge. The course instructor is required to
respond within ten (10) faculty contracted work days of their notification of the
challenge. During times when faculty are not under contract to teach, the course
instructor is not mandated to respond and students may need to wait until the faculty
member resumes contracted work days. The instructor is responsible for providing the
criteria used in determining the course grade as part of their written response. The
instructor’s written response will be sent to the Dean/Director, who will forward the
rebuttal to the student. If needed, additional information may be requested by the
Dean/Director from the student and/or instructor. In the event that the instructor is on
leave or no longer employed by the District, the Dean/Director may appoint another
faculty member as a substitute in these proceedings.
Step 4: Meeting with Dean/Director, Student and Instructor. Following the review of these
materials, the Dean/Director shall meet with the student and the instructor together to
attempt to resolve the dispute. If the student chooses not to attend this meeting the course
grade challenge is terminated. The Dean/Director may request additional documentation
from either student or instructor to help in the mediation process, which may require a
follow-up meeting. If the course grade challenge is not resolved or terminated at this step,
the student may then proceed to Step 5.
Step 5: Appeal to a Course Grade Challenge Committee. If the course grade challenge is not
resolved or terminated at Step 4, the student may file a written request with the Chief
Instructional Officer/Chief Student Services Officer (CIO/CSSO) for a review of the
evidence by a Course Grade Challenge Committee. The written request for a review
must be submitted within fourteen (14) calendar days of the completion of Step 4.
Failure to submit this request within fourteen (14) calendar days terminates the course
grade challenge. Upon receipt of this request, the CIO/CSSO shall convene a Course
Grade Challenge Committee comprised of two faculty members, two students, and the
CIO/CSSO who shall serve as the non-voting chair.
The CIO/Chair shall advise the student and the instructor of the date, time and location of
the appeal hearing. The hearing shall be informal and shall take place before the entire
Course Grade Challenge Committee. No formal witnesses representing either party may
attend. However, each party may have an advocate that does not act as legal counsel. The
format and duration of the hearing shall be left to the discretion of the committee. The
burden of proof rests with the student. The student and the instructor shall answer
questions related to the materials submitted in Steps 2-4.
At the close of the hearing, the decision to affirm or deny the student’s Course Grade
Challenge shall be determined by a vote of three out of four of the voting members, and
shall be based solely upon substantiation of mistake, fraud, bad faith, or incompetence
(Ed. Code 76232). The decision of the committee shall be final. The Committee shall
submit a written report of its decision to the CIO/CSSO within three (3) working days of
the hearing or review of the written record, as the case may be. The Chief Instructional
Officer shall notify the instructor and the student of the outcome within three working
days after receiving the Committee’s written report. The Committee’s written report shall
be considered Confidential. At the conclusion of this process, all documentation will be
secured in the office of the CIO/CSSO.
The decision of the Course Grade Challenge Committee will be final. If the student feels
they have been denied due process through these proceedings, please refer to BP 5530
Student Complaints and its procedures.
2.0
Late Withdrawal
Students who have extenuating circumstances beyond their control (i.e., medical issues
or military orders) may petition for a withdrawal after the deadline. Students must
complete a petition, include detailed information and attach verifying documentation
within one year of the term in question.
2.0
Security of Grade Records
The District shall implement security measures for student records that assure no person
may obtain access to student grade records without proper authorization. These measures
shall be installed as part of any computerized grade data storage system.
The measures implemented by the District shall include appropriate security for database
access and locking mechanisms for computer stations from which student grade
databases can be viewed, and strict limits on who is authorized to change student grades.
Anyone authorized to change grades shall be designated by the CIO/CSSO or
his/her designee. No more than five District employees may be authorized to
change student grades. Only regular full-time employees of the District may be
authorized to change grades. Student workers may not change grades at any time.
Anyone who discovers unauthorized activity in grade databases shall notify the
CIO/CSSO or his/her designee who shall immediately take steps to lock the grade
storage system entirely while an investigation is conducted.
If any student’s grade record is found to have been changed without proper
authorization, the District will notify 1) the student; 2) the instructor who originally
awarded the grade; 3) any educational institution to which the student has
transferred; 4) the accreditation agency; and 5) appropriate local law enforcement
authorities.
Whenever a grade is changed for any reason, corrected transcripts will be sent to any
educational institution to which a student has transferred.
Any student or employee who is found to have gained access to grade recording systems
without proper authorization, or who is found to have changed any grade without proper
authority to do so, shall be subject to discipline in accordance with District policies and
procedures.
Any person who is found to have gained access to grade recording systems without
proper authorization, or who is found to have changed any grade without proper authority
to do so, shall be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency having jurisdiction
over the college where the incident occurred.
References: Education Code Sections 76224 and 76232; Title 5 Section 55025
Approved: 10/03/2011 Former Administrative Procedure #528.01 “Regulations Regarding Academic Complaints,”
Adopted by Board of Trustees: June 6, 1994
Revised by ASPC June 17, 2015; forward for Senate approval process Sept. 4, 2015
Grade Challenge Form
Student Name:
________________________________
Date:
Student Phone:
________________________________
Student ID#: _____________________
Term:
_____________________
_______________________________
Course Number: ________________________________
Instructor:
_____________________
Policy: The course grade given to each student shall be determined by the instructor(s) of the course and, in the absence of
mistake, fraud, bad faith or incompetence, shall be final. A student who believes he or she has a grade grievance shall make a
reasonable effort to resolve the matter on an informal basis.
Student Request for Grade Change due to:
Mistake
Fraud
Bad Faith
Incompetence
Instructions: This form should accompany all original documentation submitted by the student.
Step 1:
Student and instructor meet informally and if the dispute is resolved, no further action is required.
If student is not satisfied with instructor explanation, or student does not wish to meet with the instructor,
the student must initiate a formal course grade challenge.
Date of informal meeting between Instructor and Student: ____________________
Appeal Denied
Step 2:
Student declined to meet informally
No response from instructor
A student who wishes to file a formal course grade challenge must do this no later than the second week of
the academic semester following the award of the course grade. The student must submit a written appeal
(including syllabus, student statement and supporting evidence) using the course grade challenge form and
must make an appointment with the immediate supervisor of the instructor.
Date Supervisor was notified by Student: _______________
Date Instructor was notified by Dean/Director: ________________
Step 3:
The course instructor shall respond to the Dean/Director regarding the course grade challenge within ten
(10) faculty contract days of being notified of the student’s grade challenge. The instructor’s written
response will be forwarded to the student.
Date Instructor Response Due: ______________
Date Instructor Response forwarded to Student: ______________________
Instructor’s response: Grade change:
Instructor submits grade change
No Grade Change:
The student may proceed to Step 4
No Grade Change:
Course grade challenge terminated
Step 4:
The Dean/Director shall meet with both the student and instructor together to attempt to resolve the dispute
regarding the contested grade.
Date of Meeting: _________________
Who Attended: ___________________________________________
Additional Information requested by Dean/Director from student &/or instructor:
Instructor’s response: Grade change:
Instructor submits grade change
No Grade Change:
The student may proceed to Step 4
No Grade Change:
Course grade challenge terminated*
* If the student chooses not to attend this meeting the course grade challenge is terminated.
Step 5:
If the course grade challenge is not resolved or terminated at step 4, the student may file a written request with
the Chief Instructional Officer (CIO) for a review of the evidence with the Course Grade Challenge Committee.
The written request for a review must be submitted within fourteen (14) calendar days of the completion of
Step 4.
Date request submitted to Chief Instructional Officer for Committee review of grade: _____________________
The Course Grade Challenge Committee Chair will arrange a date, time and location for the hearing.
Date/Time/Location: ____________________
Student
and Instructor
notified
The hearing shall be informal. During the hearing, student and instructor shall answer questions related to the
materials submitted in steps 2 through 4. The burden of proof rests with the student. The decision to sustain the
course grade shall be determined by a vote of three out of four of the voting members. The decision to change a
grade shall be based solely upon substantiation of mistake, fraud, bad faith, or incompetence. The committee
shall submit a written report within three (3) working days of the hearing date. The Chief Instructional Officer
shall notify the student and instructor within three (3) working days after receiving the committee’s report.
Grade change:
Correction of Grade Change Form completed by Committee Chair/Chief Instructional Officer
No Grade Change:
Student notified
The decision of the Course Grade Challenge Committee is Final.
date: ______
Instructor notified
date: _________
Signature of CIO: _________________________________________________________
Course Grade Challenge – Letter Template
[Part of Step Two of the Formal Course Grade Challenge]
To the student: If you have decided to pursue a grade challenge, you may use the following template to
communicate your challenge in a business letter format. This is not the only acceptable format you can use, but it
can help you express your concerns and reason(s) for your challenge in a clear manner. Be sure to address the
specific circumstances of your situation and your grade. Limit your letter (or statement) to three pages. This letter is
required as part of the documents you will submit to the instructor and the instructor’s immediate supervisor for the
formal challenge.
If you feel that the matter was not resolved through the discussions with the instructor and Dean/Director (steps 1
through 4), this letter will become part of the documents that you present to the Course Grade Challenge Committee.
The Chair of the Course Grade Challenge Committee can assist you in determining what materials or documents you
should provide for the committee. If necessary, the chair can help you clarify or articulate your concerns.
Date
Course Grade Challenge Committee
Office of Instruction
College of the Redwoods
Eureka, CA 95501
To Whom It May Concern:
The first paragraph should briefly state the purpose of the letter (i.e. to challenge your grade). You should
mention the course name, number, and section.
The middle paragraphs should present the reason(s) why the assigned grade was, in your opinion, unjustified or
unfair, as outlined by the syllabus for the course and the course work you completed. You should include
evidence for supporting your reasons, including references to specific assignments, exams, or other materials that
might pertain to and support your case. You should not include unsubstantiated claims or malicious comments
about the class, other classmates or the instructor as personal attacks.
In the last paragraph, you should thank the chairperson and/or the committee for reviewing your materials and
assisting you during the process.
Sincerely,
Signature
Typed name
Student ID number
Enclosures:
tests, etc.)
Course syllabus
Documentation you deem relevant to your challenge (e.g. written assignments with feedback,
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 4231
GRADE CHANGES
Course Grade Challenge
The course grade given to each student shall be determined by the instructor(s) of the course. The
determination of the student’s grade by the instructor(s), in the absence of mistake, fraud, bad faith,
or incompetence, shall be final (Ed. Code 76232). A student who has evidence that the course grade
awarded to him/her by the instructor(s) of the course is based upon mistake, fraud, bad faith, or
incompetence may appeal the grade by following the steps below. The course grade challenge
process is not a legal proceeding. Advocates may attend but cannot act as legal counsel.
Grades will be reviewed within the following context:
1. Mistake – an error in calculation, or an error in marking the roll book relevant to grades, or
attendance. Additionally, mistakes may occur when physically assigning grades or when
grades are scanned into the computer system.
2. Bad Faith – disregarding or changing the basis of assigning grades after publication in the
course syllabus or using a system of grading other than that found in the syllabus without
prior notification to the students.
3. Fraud – selling grades or asking students to perform non-relevant activity in exchange for
grades.
4. Incompetence – impaired ability (due to accident or illness) to adequately judge the student’s
performance.
Step 1: Consultation with the Instructor(s). No later than the second week of the academic
semester following the award of the grade, a student must attempt to resolve the course grade dispute
through consultation with the instructor of the course. In the event the course instructor is no longer
at the college, is on leave of absence, or refuses to consult with the student, the student may proceed
to the next step. However, during times when faculty are not under contract to teach, the course
instructor is not required to respond to requests for course grade consultation or to meet with
students. Students may need to wait until the beginning of the semester following the award of the
disputed course grade for a response to their request for a consultation. Upon resuming their contract
to teach, the course instructor shall respond to a course grade challenge within fourteen (14) calendar
days of the first instructional day of the term or within fourteen (14) calendar days of the student’s
grade challenge request.
Step 2: Appeal to the Instructor’s(s’) Immediate Supervisor. If the student is not satisfied with
the result of Step 1, the student may appeal the matter to the instructor’s immediate supervisor using
the Course Grade Challenge form. The Course Grade Challenge form may be obtained from
Enrollment Services or center campus office. The student must complete the form and supply all
supporting evidence in writing to the instructor’s immediate supervisor within fourteen (14) calendar
days of completion of Step 1. Failure to submit these materials within fourteen (14) calendar days
terminates the course grade challenge.
The immediate supervisor will inform the instructor that the student has completed a course grade
challenge form. The instructor is responsible for providing the criteria used in determining the
course grade. Following the review of these materials, the instructor’s immediate supervisor shall
meet, when possible, with the student and the instructor together to attempt to resolve the dispute
regarding the contested grade. If the course grade challenge is not resolved or terminated at this
step, the student may then proceed to Step 3.
Step 3: Appeal to the Course Grade Challenge Committee. If the course grade challenge is not
resolved or terminated at Step 2, the student may file a written request with the Chief Instructional
Officer for a review of the evidence with the Course Grade Challenge Committee. The written
request for a review must be submitted within fourteen (14) calendar days of the completion of Step
2. Failure to submit this request within fourteen (14) calendar days terminates the course grade
challenge. Upon receipt of this request, the Chief Instructional Officer shall take the steps necessary
to acquire the materials and convene a Course Grade Challenge Committee comprised of two faculty
members, two students, and the Chief Instructional Officer who shall serve as the non-voting chair.
It is at the committee’s discretion to determine if sufficient evidence exists to make a determination
on the basis of the written record or to go to a hearing.
If the committee decides to go to a hearing, the chair shall advise the student and the instructor of the
date, time and location of the appeal hearing. The hearing shall be informal and shall take place
before the entire Course Grade Challenge Committee. No formal witnesses representing either party
may attend. However, each party may have an advocate that does not act as legal counsel. The
format and duration of the hearing shall be left to the discretion of the committee. The burden of
proof rests with the student. The student and the instructor shall answer questions related to the
materials submitted in Step 2.
At the close of the review of the written record or hearing, as the case may be, approval to sustain
the course grade challenge shall be determined by a vote of three out of four of the voting members.
The decision to change a grade shall be based solely upon substantiation of mistake, fraud, bad faith,
or incompetence (Ed. Code 76232). The decision of the committee shall be final. The committee
shall submit a written report of its decision to the Chief Instructional Officer within three (3)
working days of the hearing or review of the written record, as the case may be. The Chief
Instructional Officer shall notify the instructor and the student within three working days after
receiving the committee’s written report.
Step 4: Notification to the Board of Trustees. A student may appeal the committee’s decision to
the Board of Trustees only if evidence exists that the Course Grade Challenge policy and procedures
were not followed. Within 14 calendar days, the student shall notify the Chief Instructional Officer
in writing identifying specifically where the process was not followed. Failure to submit this written
appeal within 14 calendar days shall terminate the course grade challenge. The Chief Instructional
Officer will forward the written appeal to the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees will review
the written appeal to verify whether or not the process was followed. The Board of Trustees shall
refer the matter back to the committee if it finds that the course grade challenge policy and
procedures were not followed. Otherwise, the decision of the committee shall stand.
Late Withdrawal
Students who have extenuating circumstances beyond their control (i.e., medical issues or military
orders) may petition for a withdrawal after the deadline. Students must complete a petition, include
detailed information and attach verifying documentation within one year of the term in question.
Security of Grade Records
The District shall implement security measures for student records that assure no person may obtain
access to student grade records without proper authorization. These measures shall be installed as
part of any computerized grade data storage system.
The measures implemented by the District shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, password
protection for all student grade data bases, locking mechanisms for computer stations from which
student grade data bases can be viewed, and strict limits on the number of persons who are
authorized to change student grades.
Persons authorized to change grades shall be designated by the Vice President of Student
Development or his/her designee. No more than five District employees may be authorized to
change student grades. Only regular full-time employees of the District may be authorized to
change grades. Student workers may not change grades at any time.
Any person who discovers that grades have been changed by someone other than the persons
authorized to do so shall notify the Vice President of Student Development or his/her designee
immediately. The designee shall immediately take steps to lock the grade storage system entirely
while an investigation is conducted.
If any student’s grade record is found to have been changed without proper authorization, the
District will notify 1) the student; 2) the instructor who originally awarded the grade; 3) any
educational institution to which the student has transferred; 4) the accreditation agency; and 5)
appropriate local law enforcement authorities.
Whenever a grade is changed for any reason, corrected transcripts will be sent to any educational
institution to which a student has transferred.
Any student or employee who is found to have gained access to grade recording systems without
proper authorization, or who is found to have changed any grade without proper authority to do so,
shall be subject to discipline in accordance with District policies and procedures.
Any person who is found to have gained access to grade recording systems without proper
authorization, or who is found to have changed any grade without proper authority to do so, shall be
reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the college where the
incident occurred.
References: Education Code Sections 76224 and 76232; Title 5 Section 55025
Approved: 10/03/2011
Former Administrative Procedure #528.01 “Regulations Regarding Academic Complaints,”
Adopted by Board of Trustees: June 6, 1994
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Board Policy
BP 7387
PRE-RETIREMENT REDUCTION OF WORKLOAD
A reduced workload leave of absence may be granted to regular employees who wish to
reduce their workload from full-time to part-time duties in accordance with Education
Code and Government Code.
The President/Superintendent shall establish procedures for employees who wish to
participate in a reduced workload as authorized by law, PERS, STRS, and any collective
bargaining agreements entered into by the District.
Reference: Education Code Sections 22713; 44922; 45139; 87483; 88038; 89516; and
Government Code Sections 20815; 20900; 20905; and 53201.
Approved: NEW
REDUCED WORKLOAD PROGRAM
Initiation of Request: The option of reduced-load employment must be exercised at the timely
request of the employee and by the mutual consent of the District.
Eligibility Requirements:
A. The member must have reached the age of 55 prior to reduction in workload. The
member's last year of eligibility is the year of his/her 70th birthday.
B. The member must have been employed in a full-time position requiring certification for
at least ten years, of which the immediately preceding five years were full-time
employment. For purposes of the Reduced Workload Program, a member of the State
Teacher's Retirement System is considered to have been employed full-time if there was
as agreement between the member and the employer to perform service equal to that
required by the governing board of other full-time employees in similar grades and
positions to receive a full-time compensation for each day the schools of the district were
maintained during the school year. On-the-job performance is not required. As long as
there was an agreement to perform full-time service at the beginning of the school year,
the employee will still be considered as being employed full-time if he or she is
unavoidably absent due to illness, bereavement, etc., during the school year. Sabbaticals
and other approved leaves do not constitute a break in service. Such leave, however, is
1
not used to compute the five years' full-time service requirement prior to entering the
program.
C. The certificated member in community colleges who is a participant in good standing in
the State Teachers' Retirement System may hold any position.
Participation Requirements:
A. The minimum Reduced Workload employment shall be the equivalent of at least half Of
the number of days of service required by the contract of employment during the last year
served in a full-time certificated position. This requirement can be met in many different
ways. The employee can work at least 1/2 time for the complete year; full-time for at
least 1/2 year, etc. The measurement of full and half workload will be by Teacher Load
Units (TLU).
B. The member shall be paid a salary that is the pro rata share of the salary that would have
been earned had the member not elected to enter the Reduced Workload Program. The
salary received must be at least half the salary the member would have earned on a
fulltime basis. If the member is paid less than half of the full-time salary, the minimum
participation requirement will not have been met. It is mandatory that both the minimum
salary and minimum employment requirements are met. If the member has a contract
requiring more or actually serves more than half time, but is not paid at least half fulltime salary, the participation requirements will not have been met and the member will
not be entitled to a full year of service credit. All contracts will be written to provide for
more work than half time so that the member who takes an unanticipated leave for
bereavement, illness, etc., and is docked, will still meet the minimum equivalent of half
the number of days and be paid at least half salary. If this cannot be done, the member
must make up any days docked in the same school year if the participation requirements
are to be met.
C. The employer and employee must contribute to the STRS 12.50% and 8%, respectively,
of the full-time compensation the employee would have earned if employed on a fulltime
basis.
D. The employee cannot participate in the plan for more than five years or beyond the year
in which the 70th birthday falls, whichever comes first. During the period of
participation, the employee is entitled to all other rights and benefits for which payments
are made that would be required if employed full-time, including health benefits as
provided in Section 53201 of the Government Code. The employee failing to meet any
of the above requirements will receive only that service credit based on the ratio of
earnings to earnable salary, and will not receive the service credit that would have been
received if employed on a full-time basis.
Administrative Requirements:
2
A. The agreement or contract must be executed by the employer and member, in writing, and
submitted to the State Teachers' Retirement System through the County Superintendent
of Schools to arrive at STRS at least 15 days prior to the participation in the Reduced
Workload Program at the beginning of the school year or before the beginning of the
second half of the school year, if only the second half is to be considered Reduced
Workload service.
B. The participant must be identified and reported to STRS in accordance with the
County/District Procedures Manual instructions.
C. Contributions for the participant and employer must be submitted to STRS based on the
amount the participant would have earned if employed on a full-time basis regardless of
the schedule of employment.
Former Board of Trustees Policy No. 336, number change only on August 7, 2012
Adopted by Board of Trustees: February 2, 1982
Revised: August 5, 1985
3
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 7387-P
PRE-RETIREMENT REDUCTION OF WORKLOAD FOR PERS MEMBERS
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
1. The employee must be a member of the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS.
2. The employee must have reached the age of 55 prior to the reduction in workload and
may not participate beyond the age of 70.
3. The employee must have 10 years of full-time service and the immediately preceding five
years must be without a break in service.
4. Transfer to the reduced work time is optional to the employee and termination from the
program requires the employee and employer consent.
5. Salary shall be a pro-rata share of the active salary that would have been earned had the
employee not elected to enter the pre-retirement reduction of workload program.
6. During the reduced workload period, no benefit entitlements shall be lost, including
health, survivor benefits, disability benefits, and retirement.
7. The minimum part-time employment level must be 50% of the employee’s previous fulltime employment.
8. Participation in this pre-retirement reduction of workload program shall not exceed five
years, nor extend beyond the end of the school year during which the employee reaches
the age of 70.
EMPLOYEE/EMPLOYER OBLIGATIONS:
1. Notification dates: An employee requesting participation in the pre-retirement reduction
of workload program must apply at least 120 days in advance of the period of reduced
load or at a later time based on mutual consent of the District, Employee, and any
representative bargaining unit, if applicable.
a. The request must be initiated by the employee and forwarded through the
supervisor to the appropriate senior administrator.
b. Final approval of employee participation shall be obtained by the Board of
Trustees through the monthly board personnel action report.
2. The employee shall pay member contributions based on the full-time earnings reported
by Payroll. This will result in full service credit and benefits based on full salary levels.
3. The payroll office shall:
a. Verify eligibility of the employee and maintain the necessary records to identify
the employees involved in the program.
b. Report to PERS employees under the reduced worktime program as if they had
worked full time (i.e., report the pay rate and earnings the employee would
receive if he/she works full time).
4. Unless otherwise provided through a collective bargaining agreement, the District
reserves the right to deny granting a pre-retirement reduction of workload if doing so
1
would create unusual or difficult staffing problems. A denial of participation in the
program shall only be temporary and the employee may reapply for the program within
the request timelines for a later date.
Reference: Education Code Sections 22713; 44922; 45139; 87483; 88038; 89516; and
Government Code Sections 20815; 20900; 20905; and 53201.
Approved:
2
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 7387-S
PRE-RETIREMENT REDUCTION OF WORKLOAD FOR STRS MEMBERS
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
1. The employee must be a member of the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS).
2. The employee must have reached the age of 55 prior to the reduction in workload and
may not participate beyond the age of 70.
3. The employee must have 10 years of full-time service and the immediately preceding five
years must be without a break in service.
4. Transfer to the reduced work time is optional to the employee and termination from the
program requires the employee and employer consent.
5. Salary shall be a pro-rata share of the active salary that would have been earned had the
employee not elected to enter the pre-retirement reduction of workload program.
6. During the reduced workload period, no benefit entitlements shall be lost, including
health, survivor benefits, disability benefits, and retirement.
7. The minimum part-time employment level must be 50% of the employee’s previous fulltime employment.
8. Participation in this pre-retirement reduction of workload program shall not exceed five
years, nor extend beyond the end of the school year during which the employee reaches
the age of 70.
9. Sabbaticals and other approved leaves do not constitute a break in service, however, such
leaves are not used to compute the five-years full-time service requirement prior to
entering the program.
EMPLOYEE/EMPLOYER OBLIGATIONS:
1. Notification dates: An employee requesting participation in the pre-retirement reduction
of workload program must apply at least 120 days in advance of the period of reduced
load or at a later time based on mutual consent of the District, Employee, and any
representative bargaining unit, if applicable.
a. The request must be initiated by the employee and forwarded through the
supervisor to the appropriate senior administrator.
b. Final approval of employee participation shall be obtained by the Board of
Trustees through the monthly board personnel action report.
2. The employee shall pay member contributions based on the full-time earnings reported
by Payroll. This will result in full service credit and benefits based on full salary levels.
1
3. The payroll office shall:
a. Verify eligibility of the employee and maintain the necessary records to identify
the employees involved in the program.
b. Report to STRS employees under the reduced worktime program as if they had
worked full time (i.e., report the pay rate and earnings the employee would
receive if he/she works full time).
4. Participation in the program must be for a full academic year, however, the 50%
reduction may take place over the whole academic year or full time in one semester and
complete leave in the other semester.
5. Unless otherwise provided through a collective bargaining agreement, the District
reserves the right to deny granting a pre-retirement reduction of workload if doing so
would create unusual or difficult staffing problems. A denial of participation in the
program shall only be temporary and the employee may reapply for the program within
the request timelines for a later date.
Reference: Education Code Sections 22713; 44922; 45139; 87483; 88038; 89516; and
Government Code Sections 20815; 20900; 20905; and 53201.
Approved:
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Board Policy
BP 7387
Number Update only from Board of Trustees Policy No. 336
REDUCED WORKLOAD PROGRAM
Initiation of Request: The option of reduced-load employment must be exercised at the
timely request of the employee and by the mutual consent of the District.
Eligibility Requirements:
A. The member must have reached the age of 55 prior to reduction in workload. The
member's last year of eligibility is the year of his/her 70th birthday.
B. The member must have been employed in a full-time position requiring certification
for at least ten years, of which the immediately preceding five years were full-time
employment. For purposes of the Reduced Workload Program, a member of the State
2
Teacher's Retirement System is considered to have been employed full-time if there
was as agreement between the member and the employer to perform service equal to
that required by the governing board of other full-time employees in similar grades
and positions to receive a full-time compensation for each day the schools of the
district were maintained during the school year. On-the-job performance is not
required. As long as there was an agreement to perform full-time service at the
beginning of the school year, the employee will still be considered as being employed
full-time if he or she is unavoidably absent due to illness, bereavement, etc., during
the school year. Sabbaticals and other approved leaves do not constitute a break in
service. Such leave, however, is not used to compute the five years' full-time service
requirement prior to entering the program.
C. The certificated member in community colleges who is a participant in good standing in the
State Teachers' Retirement System may hold any position.
Participation Requirements:
A. The minimum Reduced Workload employment shall be the equivalent of at least half
of the number of days of service required by the contract of employment during the
last year served in a full-time certificated position. This requirement can be met in
many different ways. The employee can work at least 1/2 time for the complete year;
full-time for at least 1/2 year, etc. The measurement of full and half workload will be
by Teacher Load Units (TLU).
B. The member shall be paid a salary that is the pro rata share of the salary that would have
been earned had the member not elected to enter the Reduced Workload Program. The salary
received must be at least half the salary the member would have earned on a full­ time basis.
If the member is paid less than half of the full-time salary, the minimum participation
requirement will not have been met.
It is mandatory that both the minimum salary and minimum employment
requirements are met. If the member has a contract requiring more or actually serves
more than half time, but is not paid at least half full-time salary, the participation
requirements will not have been met and the member will not be entitled to a full year
of service credit. All contracts will be written to provide for more work than half time
so that the member who takes an unanticipated leave for bereavement, illness, etc.,
and is docked, will still meet the minimum equivalent of half the number of days and
be paid at least half salary. If this cannot be done, the member must make up any
days docked in the same school year if the participation requirements are to be met.
C. The employer and employee must contribute to the STRS 12.50% and 8%, respectively, of
the full-time compensation the employee would have earned if employed on a full­ time
basis.
3
D. The employee cannot participate in the plan for more than five years or beyond the
year in which the 70th birthday falls, whichever comes first.
During the period of participation, the employee is entitled to all other rights and
benefits for which payments are made that would be required if employed full-time,
including health benefits as provided in Section 53201 of the Government Code.
The employee failing to meet any of the above requirements will receive only that
service credit based on the ratio of earnings to earnable salary, and will not receive the
service credit that would have been received if employed on a full-time basis.
Administrative Requirements:
A. The Agreement or contract must be executed by the employer and member, in writing, and
submitted to the State Teachers' Retirement System through the County Superintendent of
Schools to arrive at STRS at least 15 days prior to the participation in the Reduced Workload
Program at the beginning of the school year or before the beginning of the second half of the
school year, if only the second half is to be considered Reduced Workload service.
B. The participant must be identified and reported to STRS in accordance
with the County/District Procedures Manual instructions.
C. Contributions for the participant and employer must be submitted to STRS based on
the amount the participant would have earned if employed on a full-time basis
regardless of the schedule of employment.
Former Board of Trustees Policy No. 336, number change only on August 7, 2012
Adopted by Board of Trustees: February 2, 1982
Revised: August 5, 1985
4
Redwoods Community College District
Administrative Procedure
AP 3440
SERVICE ANIMALS
The Redwoods Community College District District Board Policy addresses the colleges’
compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act. The following procedures implement Board Policy 5640 with regard to the
use of service animals in district facilities and on college campuses.
The purpose of these guidelines and procedures is to ensure that individuals with disabilities who
have service animals can participate in and benefit from district-wide services, programs, and
activities, and to ensure compliance with Title II of the ADA (28 C.F.R. § 36.104) and state
antidiscrimination laws.
I
DEFINITIONS
Disability - A disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more
major life activities of an individual; a record of having such an impairment, or being regarded as
having such an impairment (Title I of the ADA Regulations, 29 C.F.R. § 1630.2 (g)).
Handler – A person with a service animal.
Service Animal - A service animal is any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually
trained to work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including but
not limited to, guiding individuals with impaired vision, alerting individuals with impaired
hearing to intruders or sounds, providing minimal protection or rescue work, pulling a
wheelchair, or fetching dropped items (Title III of the ADA applicable to private entities). While
service animals have been traditionally identified as dogs, it should be noted that ADA currently
considers dogs or miniature horses to be used as service animals. A service animal is sometimes
called an assistance animal.
A companion animal used for its calming influence or a domestic pet is not considered to be a
service animal.
Service Animal Tasks – A service animal may be trained to perform a variety of services
depending on the nature of the disability. Examples include, but not limited to:
•
•
•
For someone with a visual impairment: obstacle avoidance, signaling changes in
elevation, and locating objects.
For someone with a hearing impairment: alerting to specific sounds and other tasks such
as retrieve unheard dropped objects.
For someone with mobility or other health impairment: retrieving, carrying, tugging,
pulling, bracing, and calling for emergency help.
•
•
For someone with a seizure disorder: tasks supporting an individual before, during, and
after a seizure.
For someone with autism: tasks may include alerting the individual of distracting
repetitive movements.
II. GENERAL RULE REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS
Occasional use of a service animal in district facilities and on District college campuses (i.e.,
attendance at a concert or special event) may not be challenged except if the use of the animal
poses a direct threat to the health or safety of other persons, or if the presence of the service
animal will result in a fundamental alteration of the service, program or activity involved. (Title
II of the ADA Regulations, 28 C.F.R. § 130 [b] [7])
Enrolled students wishing to be accompanied to class by a service dog on a regular basis as an
accommodation are strongly recommended to notify the Disabled Students Programs and
Services (DSP&S) Office. Staff may ask: (1) Is the dog a service animal required because of a
disability? (2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform? As a general rule, the
colleges will modify policies, practices, and procedures to permit the use of a service animal by
an individual with a disability. When appropriate, students may be issued documentation
verifying that the animal is a service animal to be used at the college.
A person with a disability wishing to be accompanied on campus by a miniature horse should
contact the DSP&S office for an assessment for a miniature horse, which will include the
following four factors: (1) whether the miniature horse is housebroken; (2) whether the miniature
horse is under the owner’s control; (3) whether the facility can accommodate the miniature
horse’s type, size, and weight; and (4) whether the miniature horse’s presence will not
compromise legitimate safety requirements necessary for safe operation of the facility. (Title II
of the ADA Regulations, 28 C.F.R. 35.136 [i])
III. RESTRICTIONS/AREAS OF SAFETY
The District imposes some restrictions on service animals for safety reasons. Restrictions may
include but are not limited to nursing and health sciences programs, food services programs,
rooms with heavy machinery, custodial closets, areas where protective clothing is required, or
areas that can pose a safety risk to the animal. Restrictions are considered individually to
determine if the animal poses a possible danger or could be in possible danger and to determine
if other reasonable accommodations can be provided to assure the student equal access to the
activity. Questions about restrictions on service animals should be directed to the college DSP&S
Coordinator, Vice President for Student Support Services CIO/CSSO, or District Human
Resources Department Director of Human Resources.
IV. RESPONSIBILITIES OF FACULTY, STAFF, AND STUDENTS
Members of the college community are responsible for the following:
•
Allowing a service animal to accompany the partner/handler at all times and in public
area on district property.
•
Not petting a service animal; petting a service animal when the animal is working
distracts the animal from the task at hand.
•
Not feeding a service animal.
•
Not deliberately provoking a service animal.
•
Not separating or attempting to separate a partner/handler from his or her service animal.
V. RESPONSIBILITIES OF SERVICE ANIMAL HANDLERS
An individual with a service animal (handler) is responsible for the following:
Ensuring that the animal meets any licensing requirements of the state of California. (The animal
must be immunized against diseases common to that type of animal. Dogs are required to wear
an owner identification tag, a current rabies tag, and a dog license tag at all times.) California
Health and Safety Code Section 121690(a); County Ordinance Section 541-32(a)
•
For the rabies vaccination and licensing requirement
•
Generally ensuring that the animal is on a leash at all times.
•
Controlling the animal at all times. The care and supervision of an animal is solely the
responsibility of its handler.
•
Ensuring that all city ordinances or other laws regarding are followed cleaning up after
the animal and dispose of waste. defecates are followed. Individuals with disabilities who
physically cannot clean up after their own service animals are not be required to pick up
and dispose of waste feces. However these individuals should use marked service animal
toileting areas where provided.
•
Ensuring that the animal behaves properly in public settings.
•
Ensuring that the animal is in good health. If the animal becomes ill, the handler must
remove it from the area and college staff may require it to leave.
•
Complying with the RCCD district Code of Student Conduct.
VI. TEMPORARY EXCLUSION OF SERVICE ANIMALS AND ACCESS ANIMALS
A college community member may request the exclusion of a service animal or access animal if
he or she believes the handler is not complying with the responsibilities listed above. Such a
request should be made to the college DSP&S Coordinator, Vice President for Student Support
Services CIO/CSSO, or District Human Resources Department Director of Human Resources.
In response to a request, the DSP&S Coordinator, Vice President for Student Support Services
CIO/CSSO, or District Human Resources Department Director of Human Resources will:
•
Inform the handler of the reason that the animal is being asked to leave campus or
district facility, investigate the appropriateness of the request, and determine whether the
animal should be excluded from the campus or district facility.
•
If the DSP&S Coordinator, Vice President for Student Support Services CIO/CSSO,
or District Human Resources Department Director of Human Resources determines the
animal should be excluded he or she must:
a) Inform the individual that the Vice President for Student Services CIO/CSSO
or District Human Resources Department Director of Human Resources must be
contacted before the animal may return to campus.
b) Report the incident in writing to the Vice President for Student Services CIO/CSSO
or the District Human Resources Department Director of Human Resources at the
earliest opportunity.
c) In the event of an emergency involving a student’s service animal or access animal,
the Vice President for Student Support Services CIO/CSSO and DSP&S Coordinator
will consult and work together with the student to resolve the situation.
d) An individual who does not agree with the resolution may file a complaint or
grievance following the district’s student complaint policy and procedures grievance
procedures (BP 5530 & AP 5530) (AR 400.5).
VII. CONFLICTING DISABILITIES
Students or employees with medical issues that are impacted by animals (such as respiratory
diseases) should contact the college DSP&S office or District Human Resources Department if
they have a concern about exposure to a service animal or access animal. The individual may be
asked to identify his/her disability and need for an accommodation, and would need to comply
with all RCCD district procedures regarding accommodations. In consultation with the Vice
President for Student Support Services CIO/CSSO, the DSP&S Coordinator and District Human
Resources Department Director of Human Resources will facilitate a process to resolve the conflict
that considers the conflicting needs/accommodations of all persons involved.
VIII. CLARIFYING AN ANIMAL’S STATUS
In many cases it is easy to discern whether or not an animal is a service animal by observing the
animal’s harness, cape, or backpack, or the individual’s disability. However, in other cases, an
animal may only have a leash or the partner’s disability is not visible. Therefore, it may be
appropriate to ask the student whether or not the dog is a service animal required because of a
disability and what tasks the dog has been trained to perform. RCCD district does not consider a
legitimate inquiry about whether an animal is or is not a service animal as a violation of policy.
As described in Section II, above, individuals may notify the DSP&S Office of their service
animal and be issued documentation verifying that the dog is a service animal to be used at the
College, which the individual could show RCCD district staff in lieu of answering questions
about the service animal. Other questions regarding the status of a service animal should be
referred to the DSP&S Coordinator, Vice President for Student Services CIO/CSSO, or District
Human Resources Department Director of Human Resources.
XI. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
In the event of an emergency, the colleges’ emergency response personnel should be trained to
recognize service animals and to be aware that the animal may be trying to communicate the
need for help. The animal may become disoriented from the smell of smoke from a fire or
laboratory emergency, from sirens or wind noise, or from shaking and moving ground. The
partner and/or animal may be confused by the stressful situation. Emergency response personnel
should be aware that the animal is trying to be protective and, in its confusion, is not to be
considered harmful. Emergency response personnel should make every effort to keep the animal
with its partner. However, an emergency response personnel’s first effort should be toward the
partner; this may necessitate leaving an animal behind in certain emergency evacuation
situations.
REDWOODS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
Administrative Procedure
AP 3530
WEAPONS ON CAMPUS
All firearms, Tasers, knives, explosives, or any simulated weapons or facsimile
firearm, knife, or explosive, are prohibited on any District campus or at any
District center, or in any facility of the District. Prohibited knives include any dirk,
dagger, ice pick, switchblade, razor with an unguarded blade, or any knife having a
fixed blade longer than 2 1/2 inches.
Exceptions are:
• A weapon in the possession of a duly appointed law enforcement officer, an
honorable retired peace officer, a member of the military on official duty, or
authorized security guards licensed to carry the weapon.
• A weapon possessed by a District employee that is used for a lawful
purpose as an approved part of the employee’s job responsibilities.
• A weapon approved by the College President as instructional equipment.
• Weapons authorized for activities on firearms range facility.
• Any other exception required by law.
Any person who believes that he/she may legally and properly possess a firearm or
other weapon on campus or in a District center or other facility of the District must
notify the Public Safety Director and President’s office. Pursuant to Penal Code
626.9(h), individuals may not possess a firearm on campus without the written
approval of the College President or designee even if in possession of a concealed
weapons permit.
Only members of law enforcement agencies or students involved in training
presented by the Emergency Response Training Center are authorized to use the
range facility. Any training conducted at other campus buildings or locations will
use only simulated weapons and advance notice will be given to the campus
community, along with having signs posted in the area
References:
Penal Code Sections 626.9 and 626.10