Vermilion Community College Employee Guidebook 2009 - 2010 Revised 8.1.09 TABLE OF CONTENTS Provost's Message………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..3 Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4 College Profile………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………5 Overview of Minnesota State Government………………………………………………………………………………6 MnSCU and College Mission Statements Minnesota State Colleges & Universities System Mission…………………………………………………………8 College Vision and Mission and Purpose ………………………………………………………………………………9 Guiding Principles…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10 Informational Documents 2009-2010 Academic Calendar……………………………………………………………………………………..……12 Final Exam Schedule: Fall 2009 ………………………………… ………………………………………………..…13 Final Exam Schedule: Spring 2010 …………………… ……………………………………………………………14 Meeting Schedule……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..15 2009-2010 Pay Periods…………………………………………………………………………………………………..…16 Building Hours and Holiday Closings…………………………………………………………………………………..17 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) Board of Trustees……………………………………..18 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) System…………………………………………………….18 Vermilion Community College Advisory Board and Foundation Board……………………………… …….19 Human Resources Human Resources And Payroll Numbers …………………………………………………. … ……………21 Employee Orientation……………………………………………………………………………………………………21 Contacts and Website ..................................................................................................... 22 Position Descriptions ....................................................................................................... 22 Personnel Files and Data Privacy ...................................................................................... 22 Benefits ......................................................................................................................... 23 Employee Assistance Program ......................................................................................... 23 Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) ............................................................................... 24 Wages and Paychecks ..................................................................................................... 24 Union Membership .......................................................................................................... 24 Leave Requests: Sick Leave, Annual (or Personal) Leave, and College Business Leave ......... 24 Staff Development and Training ....................................................................................... 24 Statement of Dress ......................................................................................................... 25 Leave Usage Clarification ................................................................................................ 25 Tuition Waiver Benefit For Employees .............................................................................. 26 College, State, and System Policies Index ……………………………………………………………………… 28-32 Weather Emergencies & Evacuation Policy ................................................................... 32-38 Non- Discrimination in Employment and Education and Sexual Harassment and Sexual… ……39 Violence Policy………… …..…………………………………………………………………………………………40-44 Code of Conduct and Ethics ........................................................................................ 45-48 Possession or Carry of Firearms Policy (MnSCU Board Policy5.21)…………………………………….49 Tobacco Free Environment…………………………………………………………………………………………….49 Zero Tolerance of Workplace Violence .............................................................................. 50 Academic Affairs Contact.......................................................................................................................... 52 New Faculty Mentors ...................................................................................................... 52 Assessment .................................................................................................................... 52 Course Outlines….…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…..52 Course Syllabi………………………………………………………………………………………………………………52 Student Evaluation/Assignments…………………………………………………………… ………………………52 Final Exams/Schedules…………………………………………………………………………………………… ……52 1 Student Attendance Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………….53 Student Discipline…………………………………………………………………………………………………..……53 Academic Dishonesty…………………………………………………………………………………..………………53 Confidentiality of Student Records…………………………………………………………………………………53 Posting of Office Hours…………………………………………………………………………………………………53 Meet and Confer………………………………………………………………………………………………………….53 Academic Affairs and Standards Council…………………………………………………………………………53 Fiscal Affairs MnSCU Policy: 5.5.2 Purchasing……………………………………………………………………………….55-57 Access Policy ................................................................................................................. 57 Vehicle Regulations......................................................................................................... 58 Student Services Contact and Website ....................................................................................................... 61 Leadership Council………………………………………………………………………………………………. …….61 Academic Advising .......................................................................................................... 61 Admissions..................................................................................................................... 61 Bookstore ...................................................................................................................... 61 Business Office ............................................................................................................... 61 Career Center................................................................................................................. 61 Computer Labs and Services............................................................................................ 62 Counseling Services ........................................................................................................ 62 Disability Services ........................................................................................................... 62 Enrollment Services ........................................................................................................ 62 Financial Aid .................................................................................................................. 62 Food Service .................................................................................................................. 63 Residence Life ................................................................................................................ 63 Library ........................................................................................................................... 63 Academic Resource Center .............................................................................................. 63 Placement Services ......................................................................................................... 63 Placement Testing (ASAP) ............................................................................................... 63 Records Office ................................................................................................................ 64 TRiO Student Support Services ........................................................................................ 64 Tours ............................................................................................................................ 64 Veteran Affairs ............................................................................................................... 64 Information Technology Services Technology Staff ............................................................................................................ 66 Information Technology Systems Acceptable Use Policy ................................................ 66-68 Additional Services Mail: Incoming and Outgoing.......................................................................................... 70 Keys .............................................................................................................................. 70 Maintenance Staff Contact............................................................................................... 70 Continuing Education Division Contacts and Website ....................................................................................................... 71 Program Information ...................................................................................................... 72 New Employee Orientation/Mentors………………………………………………………………………………….74 Mentors' Checklist ………………………………………………………………………………..……………………75 New Employee Questionnaire………………………………………………………………………………… 76-77 Organizational Chart……………………………………………………………………………………………………………79 2 Provost’s Message Welcome to the learning community of Vermilion Community College. As a new faculty or staff member, you must have many unanswered questions that come with any new job. I hope this handbook answers your questions. If not, the college is filled with friendly, helpful faculty and staff who will share their experiences and knowledge with you. It is one thing that we do best - make students, faculty, and staff welcome to all that is VCC here in Ely, Minnesota. Take the time to familiarize yourself with our mission, vision, purposes, and guiding principles that can be found on the web site. Our mission focuses on being an environmental college, and our purposes include the comprehensiveness one would expect in a residential, comprehensive community college. Joining VCC means that you are joining a college with a rich tradition of education and community service. Ely Junior College was founded in 1922; of course the name has changed several times over the years, as has the operational structure. But the commitment to quality teaching and learning has never wavered. We are now one of five colleges of the Northeast Higher Education District (NHED): Vermilion Community College, Mesabi Range Community and Technical College (Virginia and Eveleth), Itasca Community College (Grand Rapids), Rainy River Community College (International Falls), and Hibbing Community College (Hibbing). The district has one President, Dr. Sue Collins, and each college has a provost. We share some services that allow good economies for each college: grant writing, customized training, and human services, for example. You’ll find that VCC has nurtured strong ties to our community, and we continue to value the role that we fill as the cultural center of Ely. As an entrepreneurial college, our ties to the business community continue to grow and develop. The Tech North Prep Center is an example of how we work with our local businesses to encourage job growth and help bring technological advances to our region. Students come first at VCC. We hope that you share that philosophy as you join us in helping to accomplish our mission. With your help, we can bring the best possible educational experience to our students. Welcome aboard! Mary B. DuBois, Ed.D. Provost m.dubois@vcc.edu 3 Introduction This handbook is written and issued by the administration at Vermilion Community College as an official source of current operational policies and procedures. To minimize the number of regulations and procedures, only those items are included which seem essential to good organization, communication, and coordination. Each member of the staff, however, is expected to be familiar with the information in this handbook. The handbook should be regarded as a supplement to all professional staff contracts. Although an attempt has been made not to repeat information in those contracts, the procedures and policies in this handbook are to be considered in the context of the terms and official interpretations of the contracts. In the case of any conflict between this handbook and the contracts, the terms of the contracts will prevail. It is presumed that things will change. The handbook is intended to be dynamic and adaptive. In general, changes in our policies and procedures will come in one or more of the following ways: 1. Legislative changes in Minnesota statutes; 2. Policy/procedure memoranda from the Department of Administration of the State of Minnesota; 3. Changes in system-wide or specific institutional policy/procedures approved by MnSCU; 4. Administrative changes made by the Chancellor's office; 5. Changes developed at the initiative of the college administration with the approval of the Provost; 6. Changes initiated by the Faculty Association in discussions with the administration and approved by the Provost; 7. When logical and appropriate, changes initiated by other personnel constituencies in discussions with the administration and approved by the Provost; 8. Changes that result from conflict with the terms of official interpretation of the terms of the contract or from a successful grievance to that effect; 9. Changes that result from additional negotiations between the individual unions and MnSCU. This handbook is designed to facilitate deletions, modifications, or additions as they occur. 4 College Profile Vermilion Community College is a member of the Northeast Higher Education District, which was formed by the MnSCU Board of Trustees in September 1999. The College has changed names and affiliations over the years in response to legislative mandates in an attempt to serve students and conserve resources; however, it has been in continuous operation for nearly 80 years. The college opened in 1922 as Ely Junior College and was originally part of the Ely Public Schools. Although the institution became Ely State Junior College in 1964, the name was later changed to Vermilion State Junior College, and in 1973, to Vermilion Community College. In 1982, the college became a member institution in Arrowhead Community College, a multi-campus college providing educational services throughout northeastern Minnesota. This regional college structure was dissolved in the MnSCU reorganization of 1995. Between 1996 and 1999, Vermilion Community College, along with Mesabi Range Community and Technical College, joined to form the Laurentian Community and Technical College District, enabling the two colleges to share senior administrative positions, programs and services. Laurentian was dissolved by the Board of Trustees in September 1999, as part of the reorganization establishing the Northeast Higher Education District. The 1990 U.S. Census showed a sizeable decrease in the area’s population. The Minnesota State Demographer’s Office projects the population to continue to decrease over the next 30 years. The population density of Northeastern Minnesota is approximately 16 people per square mile, and the region is overwhelmingly rural. Consequently, the majority of Vermilion’s students come from outside the immediate commuting area, with approximately one-third coming from outside Minnesota. Students cite the main reasons for attending Vermilion as program of study and cost. Known as the “Boundary Waters College”, VCC is located in the heart of the Superior National Forest, on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Vermilion’s natural setting not only provides an outdoor classroom but is fully utilized for instructional purposes as well. Many of VCC’s courses capitalize on the wilderness environment. A full slate of student activities and athletics rounds out the Vermilion experience. Vermilion Community College provides rural access, partnership with business and industry, and unique programs. The College has housing for 256 students which is always full each Fall Semester. Lack of available housing in the area is a significant concern. 5 Overview of Minnesota State Government Minnesota State government is organized into three branches: Executive Legislative Judicial The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) is part of the Executive Branch. Executive Branch “The Administrators" Purpose: to administer laws that the legislature passes and see that the business of state government is run efficiently and correctly. Members: Six constitutional officers: Governor, Lt. Governor, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, Attorney General Department and agency commissioners appointed by the governor; 40,000+ state employees Legislative Branch “The Lawmakers” Purpose: to make new laws, and to change or abolish old laws; set the state’s budget and tax policies; propose changes to state constitution; elect U of M regents; oversee state government. Members: 201 total: 67 senators, 134 Representatives 6 Judicial Branch “The Judges” Purpose: to uphold the constitution of the state and nation; to interpret the laws. Members: Supreme Court: one chief justice and six associate justices Court of Appeals: one chief justice and fifteen associate justices. District Court: ten judicial districts, each with several judges Conciliation Court: one court in each county MnSCU and College Mission Statements 7 Minnesota State Colleges & Universities System Mission Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) provides accessible high-quality, future-oriented education and community service through technical, pre-baccalaureate, baccalaureate, master’s, occupational and continuing education programs. Each State college and university has a distinct mission that is consistent with and supportive of the overall mission of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities provides high-quality programs comprising: Technical education programs, delivered principally by technical colleges, which prepare students for skilled occupations that do not require a baccalaureate degree. Pre-baccalaureate programs, delivered principally by community colleges, which offer lower division instruction in academic programs, occupational programs in which all credits earned will be accepted for transfer to a baccalaureate degree in the same field of study, and remedial studies. Baccalaureate and graduate programs, delivered principally by state universities, which offer undergraduate and graduate instruction through the master’s degree, including specialist certificates, in the liberal arts and sciences and professional education. 8 College Vision Vermilion Community College will be recognized as a vital two-year residential college that serves the changing needs of its communities by providing a high quality comprehensive learning environment. College Mission Vermilion Community College educates people from all walks of life to become well-rounded, ethical citizens prepared to work, live, and learn in a changing world, especially the natural world that surrounds us. College Purpose The purpose of Vermilion Community College is to provide: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Comprehensive courses and programs, including a. General education, b. Associate degree programs in the liberal arts and sciences that are transferable to four-year colleges and universities, and c. Collaborative programs with other high schools, colleges and universities. Occupational preparation including associate in applied science programs, diplomas and certificates enabling students to acquire skills and knowledge leading to employment or transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Programs and courses that allow developmental students to meet the demands of a college education. Continuing education, providing credit and non-credit classes and workshops for professional advancement, retraining, and upgrading of skills. Workforce training for business and industry addressing present and emerging needs of employees and employers. Collaborative partnerships with higher educational institutions, business, industry, labor and governmental agencies that serve the educational and economic development needs of the college’s service area. Opportunities to enrich the personal, educational, physical, recreational and cultural growth of students and the community, and to encourage students to become ethical and responsible citizens. Support services to all students, including those from diverse cultural, ethnic, economic, and educational backgrounds, enabling them to pursue their educational objectives with as few barriers as possible. 9 Guiding Principles Excellence We strive for excellence in our educational programs, student experiences, partnerships, and services. Responsiveness We actively anticipate and respond to the changing needs of our constituents. Community We encourage and support learning and civic involvement that create strong connections between the college and our communities. Diversity We recognize, respect, and learn from the diversity of our campus community. Culture We respect our history, culture, and surroundings and use them to create our unique learning environment. Unity We achieve our goals through open communication, mutual support, and respect. 10 Informational Documents 11 2009-2010 Academic Calendar FALL SEMESTER 2009 August 20-21 August 22-23 August 24 August 24 August 28 September 7 October 2 October 12-16 October 15 & 16 October 19 October 23 November 11 November 19 November 26 & 27 December 4 December 14, 15 & 16 December 17 - January 8 December 25 Faculty/Staff Duty Days – Offices Open On-Campus Housing Move In Days Fall Semester Begins - Orientation / Cornerstone Activity Day Tuition Due Date Last Day to Drop/Add Labor Day – No Classes – Campus Closed Last Day to Withdraw from First Half Semester Courses Mid-Term Week MEA Meetings – No Classes – Offices Open Second Half of Semester Begins Last Day for Pass/Fail Option Veteran’s Day – No Classes – Campus Closed Last Day to Withdraw from Full Semester Courses Thanksgiving – No Classes – Campus Closed Last Day to Withdraw from Second Half Semester Courses Fall Semester Final Exams Winter Break – No Classes - Offices Open Holiday – Campus Closed SPRING SEMESTER 2010 January 1 January 9 January 11 January 11 January 15 January 18 February 15 February 16 February 26 March 1-5 March 8 - 12 March 15 March 19 April 2 April 15 April 30 May 10, 11, 12 May 11 May 31 Holiday – Campus Closed On - Campus Housing Move In Day Spring Semester Classes Begin Tuition Due Date Last Day to Drop/Add Martin Luther King Day – No Classes – Campus Closed President’s Day – No Classes – Campus Closed Duty Day – No Classes – Offices Open Last Day to Withdraw from First Half Semester Courses Mid-Term Week Spring Break-No Classes-Office Open Second Half of Semester Begins Last Day for Pass/Fail Option Duty Day – No Classes – Offices Open Last Day to Withdraw from Full Semester Courses Last Day to Withdraw from Second Half Semester Courses Spring Semester Final Exams Vermilion Graduation- VCC Gymnasium Memorial Day – Campus Closed 12 Fall Semester 2009 Final Exam Schedule Monday, December 14, 2009 FIRST Class Meeting Time and Days 9:00 a.m. – M W F 9:00 a.m.– T Th 3:00 p.m.– M W F 3:00 p.m.– T Th 2:00 p.m.– M W F 2:00 p.m.– T Th Final Exam Times 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 15, 2009 FIRST Class Meeting Time and Days 1:00 p.m. – M W F 1:00 p.m. – T Th 8:00 a.m.– M W F 8:00 a.m.– T Th 11:00 a.m.– M W F 11:00 a.m.– T Th Final Exam Times 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 16, 2009 FIRST Class Meeting Time and Days 10:00 a.m.– M W F 10:00 a.m.– T Th 12:00 noon – M W F 12:00 noon– T Th 4:00 p.m.– M W F 4:00 p.m.– T Th Final Exam Times 8:00-9:30 a.m. 9:30-11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 12:30-2:00 p.m. 2:00-3:30 p.m. 3:30-5:00 p.m. Notes: Permission will NOT be given to take final exams in advance of scheduled times. All exams will be conducted in the room where classes have been scheduled. Classes must meet at the scheduled final exam time. Final exams for classes that are scheduled after 5:00 p.m. will meet as follows: If class meets Mondays or Tuesdays, the final exam will be held Monday, December 14, 2009. If class meets Wednesdays or Thursdays, the final exam will be held Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at its normal class time. Final exams for classes with "arranged" schedules will be offered during final exam week at a time mutually agreed upon by the instructor and students. 13 Spring Semester 2010 Final Exam Schedule Monday, May 10, 2010 FIRST Class Meeting Time and Days 11:00 a.m. M W F 11:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 12:00 12:00 Final Exam Times 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. T Th MWF T Th MWF T Th 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 11, 2010 FIRST Class Meeting Time and Days 2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. M T M T M T WF Th WF Th WF Th Final Exam Times 8:00 - 9:30 a.m. 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. 12:30 - 2:00 p.m. 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 12, 2010 FIRST Class Meeting Time and Days 3:00 3:00 9:00 9:00 4:00 4:00 p.m. p.m. a.m. a.m. p.m. p.m. M T M T M T WF Th WF Th WF Th Final Exam Times 8:00-9:30 a.m. 9:30-11:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 12:30-2:00 p.m. 2:00-3:30 p.m. 3:30-5:00 p.m. Notes: Permission will NOT be given to take final exams in advance of scheduled times. All exams will be conducted in the room where classes have been scheduled. Instructors will meet their classes at the scheduled final exam time. Final exams for classes that are scheduled after 5:00 p.m. will meet as follows: If class meets Mondays or Tuesdays, the final exam will be held Monday, May 10, 2010 at its normal class time. If class meets Wednesdays or Thursdays, the final exam will be held Wednesday, May12, 2010 at its normal class time. Final exams for classes with "arranged" schedules will be offered during final exam week at a time mutually agreed upon by the instructor and students. 14 2009-2010 Meeting Schedule Staff / Provost – Second Tuesday of every month 1:30 p.m., Lower Conference Room Coffee an’ will be provided Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, Tuesday, September 8, 2009 October 13, 2009 November 10, 2009 December 8, 2009 January 12, 2010 February 9, 2010 March 9, 2010 April 13, 2010 May 18, 2010 (Due to Graduation, Tues. 5/11/10) Meet & Confer – Second Wednesday of every month 4:00 p.m., Lower Conference Room Coffee an’ will be provided Wednesday, September 9, 2009 Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Wednesday, November 18, 2009 (Due to Holiday, Wed. 11/11/09) Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday, Wednesday, Note: The meeting November 18, 2009 will begin at 3:00 p.m. December 9, 2009 January 13, 2010 February 10, 010 March 17, 2010 (Due to Spring Break, Wed. 3/10/10) April 14, 2010 May 12, 2010 VCC Advisory Committee – Third Wednesday of every month 5:30 p.m., Lower Conference Room Coffee an’ will be provided Wednesday, September 16, 2009 Wednesday, October 21, 2009 Wednesday, November 18, 2009 Wednesday, December 16, 2009 Wednesday, January 20, 2010 Wednesday, February 17, 2010 Wednesday, March 17, 2010 Wednesday, April 21, 2010 Tuesday, May 11, 2010 - Graduation - Mark your calendars! Wednesday, May 19, 2010 (Location TBD) 15 2009-2010 PAY PERIODS BEGINNING ENDING 06-24-09 07-07-09 07-17-09 07-08-09 07-21-09 07-31-09 07-22-09 08-04-09 08-14-09 08-05-09 08-18-09 08-28-09 08-19-09 09-01-09 09-11-09 09-02-09 09-15-09 09-25-09 09-16-09 09-29-09 10-09-09 09-30-09 10-13-09 10-23-09 10-14-09 10-27-09 11-06-09 10-28-09 11-10-09 11-20-09 11-11-09 11-24-09 12-04-09 11-25-09 12-08-09 12-18-09 12-09-09 12-22-09 12-31-09 12-23-09 01-05-10 01-15-10 01-06-10 01-19-10 01-29-10 01-20-10 02-02-10 02-12-10 02-03-10 02-16-10 02-26-10 02-17-10 03-02-10 03-12-10 03-03-10 03-16-10 03-26-10 03-17-10 03-30-10 04-09-10 03-31-10 04-13-10 04-23-10 04-14-10 04-27-10 05-07-10 04-28-10 05-11-10 05-21-10 05-12-10 05-25-10 06-04-10 05-26-10 06-08-10 06-18-10 06-09-10 06-22-10 07-02-10 16 DATE ISSUED Building Hours and Holiday Closings 2009-2010 The following are the building hours for the College. Check the calendar for holiday building closings. School Year Hours Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday Campus Closed Summer Hours Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Campus Closed 17 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) Board of Trustees Will Antell Duane Benson Michael Boulton (Student) Cheryl Dickson (Treasurer) Ivan Dusek Ruth Grendahl Clarence Hightower Robert H. Hoffman (Chair) Carol Ley (Student) Lew Moran David Olson David Paskach Thomas Renier Christopher Schultz (Student) Ann Curme Shaw (Vice Chair) Stillwater Minneapolis Porter St. Paul Willmar Apple Valley Minneapolis Waseca Alexandria Minneapolis St. Paul Marshall Duluth St. Paul Minneapolis More Information on Board of Trustees is available on the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities website (www.MnSCU.edu). Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) System James McCormick, Chancellor Janice Fitzgerald, Deputy to Chancellor Gail Olson, General Counsel Linda Baer, Senior vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs Deena Allen, Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Resources Laura M. King, Vice Chancellor/Chief Financial Officer Judy Borgen, Associate Vice Chancellor of Budget Tim Stoddard, Associate Vice Chancellor for Financial Reporting Ken Niemi, Vice Chancellor for Information Systems Bill Tschida, Vice Chancellor for Human Resources Linda Skallman, Associate Vice Chancellor for Personnel Whitney Harris, EOD Executive Director Michael Murphy, Associate Vice Chancellor for Strategic Partnerships Allan Johnson, Associate Vice Chancellor for Facilities Linda Kohl, Associate Vice Chancellor for Public Affairs Mike Lopez, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Manual Lopez, Associate Vice Chancellor for Continuous Imp Leslie Mercer, Associate Vice Chancellor for Research 18 2009 – 2010 Board Membership Foundation Board Dennis Cadari Mary Ellen Gotchnik Denise Jordan Gil Knight Jodi Martin Phyllis Olson Barbara Omerza Bernard Popesh Tim Riley Emily Wahlberg Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Advisory Board Barry Bissonett Bea Brophey Tom Coombe Butch Diesslin Betty Erickson Marge Forsberg Linda Lee Hane Douglas Hirdler Jeff Sundell Patty Trembath Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely Ely 19 Human Resources 20 2009-2010 HUMAN RESOURCES AND PAYROLL NUMBERS B. HUMAN RESOURCES ISSUES Labor contract questions and issues; benefits, including insurance issues; leave eligibility; retirement eligibility; Employee Assistance Program; salary schedule placement; changes in rate of pay; training & staff development. YOUR HUMAN RESOURCES STAFF Patti Delich, Director of Human Resources (218) 749-7743 e-mail: p.delich@mr.mnscu.edu Deb Buria-Falkowski, Personnel Aide, Sr (218) 749-7767 e-mail: d.falkowski@mr.mnscu.edu Sandy Sharp Nelson, Office Specialist (218) 748-2413 e-mail: s.nelson@mr.mnscu.edu C. FAX : (218) 749-0321 PAYROLL ISSUES Questions about the paycheck, including back pay and dates of pay; W4 changes; lost checks; all deductions, including savings bonds, Foundation deductions, retirement deductions; duplicate W2s; Contact: Juanita Sistad (218) 262-7224 e-mail: juanitasistad@hibbing.edu UNIONS AFSCME 1-800-652-9791 or (651) 450-4990 MAPE 1-800-652-9721 or (651) 227-6457 (MN Association of Professional Employees) MMA 1-800-642-2373 or (651) 222-3811 (Middle Management Association) MSCF 1-800-652-9073 or (651) 227-9541 (MN State College Faculty) FAX: (651) 227-9541 ================================================ D. MSRS 1-800-657-5757 or (651) 296-2761 (218) 740-3157 Duluth Office (Minnesota State Retirement Systems) Administers the Health Care Savings Plan www.msrs.state.mn.us PERA 1-800-652-9026 or (651) 296-7460 (Public Employees Retirement Assoc.) TRA 1-800-657-3669 or (651) 296-2409 (Teachers Retirement Association) FAX: (651) 297-5999 www.tra.state.mn.us IRAP 1-800-682-8969 administered by TIAA-CREF http://www.tiaa-cref.org SRP (Supplemental Retirement Plan) administered by TIAA-CREF 1-800-682-8969 http://www.tiaa-cref.org ================================================ OPTIONAL RETIREMENT PLANS Tax Sheltered Annuity Program FAX: (218) 262-7269 ACCESS YOUR PAYSTUB AT: ……… .. www.state.mn.us/employee Affinity Plus Credit Union (former SCCU) (218) 326-4314 Grand Rapids (218) 722-4004 Duluth www.affinityplus.org Make Direct Inquiries for Information to These Expert Sources: -----------------------------------------------------*Union Dues: Call your union *Retirement Annuity: Your retirement fund provider *Supplemental Retirement: TIAA-CREF *Billing/covered services issues for health or dental insurance: insurance carrier Investments (403(b), etc): appropriate advisor/company Tax calculations/advice: accountant Legal Advice: appropriate legal professional RETIREMENT PLANS 403(b) TIAA-CREF- 1-800-682-8969 http://www.tiaa-cref.org 457 Deferred Comp - administered by MSRS & ING Duluth Office: 1-800-657-5757 or (218) 740-3151 www.mndcplan.com Fax: 218-740-3174 HEALTH / DENTAL CARRIERS BCBS MN Advantage 1-800-262-0819 State Dental Plan 1-800-553-9536 Blue Plus Dental 1-888-853-7553 Navitus (Prescriptions) 1-866-333-2757 Group Long-term Care from CNA 1-888-653-9600 www.mpel.org Pre-tax Benefits (Eide Bailly Benefits)1-800-300-1672 Eidebailly.com/benefits Worker’s Compensation - Administered by CorVel: (612) 436-2542 1-866-399-8541 NURSELINE for 24 hr care & advice 1-800-622-9524 (Toll-free) Prescription Drugs from Canada www.advantage-meds.com MN State Employee Assistance Program EAP Counselor call: 651-259-3840 or 1-800-657-3719 21 Contacts Patti Delich, Director of Human Resources (218) 749-7743 e-mail: p.delich@mr.mnscu.edu Deb Buria-Falkowski, Personnel Aide, Sr. (218) 749-7767 e-mail: d.falkowski@mr.mnscu.edu FAX : (218)749-0321 Please visit our home pages at the VCC Website at: www.vcc.edu Employee Orientation Human Resources Visit. This includes information about the position for which the new employee is hired and the exchange of information for payroll/personnel purposes. Topics such as benefits will be explained at this meeting. A PowerPoint demonstration will be used to cover general information about the college. Union contracts will be supplied when appropriate. An Employee Guidebook will be given to the employee, which will include all of the policies and regulations of which employees must be aware (e.g. College’s Sexual Harassment Policy, Drug and Alcohol Policy). Employees will also be given the Human Resource Department business cards and will be encouraged to call with questions. Introductory Tour of the College. This will be conducted on the first work day, even though a tour may have been given during the interview phase. The tour will be for the purpose of familiarizing the new employee with the building layout and to meet other employees and will be conducted by a member of the new employee’s unit. Orientation Session. A formal orientation session will be presented each fall for new employees. Presentations will be from all departments in the College, including Student Services, Library, Continuing Education, union leaders, and others. Mentoring. A mentor, or “buddy,” within the new employee’s unit will be identified. The mentor will be available to answer questions regarding the daily routine, the job duties, or the college in general, as well as other questions that may come up in the weeks and months ahead. Position Descriptions Position descriptions are written for each non-faculty position, and copies are retained by both the supervisor and the employee. A copy is available in the personnel file at the Human Resources Office. The supervisor and the employee should keep the position description updated as necessary. It will be reviewed at least yearly or at the time of any performance reviews. Personnel Files and Data Privacy Personnel files are maintained at the Human Resources Office in Virginia. The files are available for inspection by employees or by supervisors. Contents of the personnel file may include: Initial employment data: including resumes, applications, and appointment documents leading to initial employment Historical employment data Transcripts 22 Insurance applications: initial and changes Documents regarding employment status Performance evaluations Disciplinary reports Documents submitted by the employee for addition to the file It is the employee’s responsibility to inform the Human Resources Office of demographic/ personal information if it changes, such as change of name or address, marital status, birth of children, etc. Data privacy laws protect specific information about employees. Information which is PRIVATE includes: Unemployment insurance documents Medical statements Performance evaluations Memos withholding annual pay increases for performance reasons Original reference check letters W2 forms Insurance coverage forms Other information is PUBLIC, including: Name Salary Original application form Pension & benefit amounts Expense reimbursements Position descriptions Education and training Work background Salary increase memos Commendations Discipline letters, memos Status of any charges or complaints filed against an employee Employment contracts also address personnel files. Benefits Employee benefits for eligible employees include insurance, retirement plan, paid vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, tuition waivers, and other attractive additions to wages. Eligibility for benefits are generally set through collective bargaining. Employees will find details of benefits available in the appropriate employment contract. Questions regarding eligibility for and information about benefits can be addressed to the Human Resources staff. Employee Assistance Program The Minnesota State Employee Assistance Program (EAP) was established because State employees and agencies experience distress from time to time. Personal issues sometimes create job performance problems for individuals, supervisors, and work groups. The State, as an employer, wants to provide the means for an employee to get help easily, confidentially, and voluntarily. Since employees are the State’s most important resource, both our State agencies and our employees benefit from the Employee Assistance Program. There are EAP providers in the area that render confidential services to employees in need of counseling or referral to social service agencies. Employees are encouraged to contact the provider directly or they can be referred by their supervisor. The Human Resources Office can provide further information regarding current area providers or program information. 23 Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) went into effect on August 5, 1993. It is a federal law which (broadly stated) provides eligible employees with paid or unpaid leave for up to 12 weeks in a 12-month period for the birth or adoption of a child, for the care of a child, spouse, or parent who has a serious health condition, and for serious illness of an employee. The law was updated in 2009 to include leave up to 24 weeks in order caring for a family member injured while enlisted in the United States military. It also entitles employees to job protection and employer-paid insurance during the period of a qualifying leave. The State has established that the 12-month period coincides with the State’s fiscal year (July to June). Attached to this Guidebook (Appendix A) is the Statewide Policy on FMLA. Further information can be obtained at the Human Resources Office regarding eligibility and procedures to use FMLA. Wages and Paychecks Paychecks are issued every other Friday (bi-weekly) and direct deposit is the State’s mandatory method of issuing wages. There are 26 paychecks in a 12-month period. Paychecks for part-time faculty are issued based on the dates of the work performed and timely submission of information to the Human Resources Office. Check advices will be obtained by employees on the State’s website. They will not be mailed to employees’ home addresses. Questions regarding the paycheck or payroll information can be addressed to the Human Resources Office. Union Membership Eligible employees of Vermilion Community College are represented by the following unions, each with its collective bargaining contract. New employees will receive contracts of the appropriate bargaining unit. AFSCME (Local 4001) MAPE (Minnesota Association of Professional Employees) MMA (Middle Management Association) MSCF (Minnesota State College Faculty) Leave Requests: Sick Leave, Annual (or Personal) Leave, and College Business Leave Forms are available from the Provost's Office to request leave from regular duty. There is a form for sick leave and annual/personal leave and another for college business leave. These forms are to be submitted and APPROVED PRIOR to the date of leave (see contracts regarding submission of requests). Regarding sick leave, written requests should be submitted in advance of the period of absence when practicable; and when advance notice is not possible, employees shall notify their supervisor by telephone or other means at the earliest convenience. Specific instructions regarding notification of illness should be discussed with the supervisor. College business leave is to be requested and authorized prior to taking it, using the written request form available. Any expenses involved should be noted. Staff Development and Training Vermilion Community College encourages all employees in life-long learning and career development. It is the College’s obligation to balance this philosophy with the expectation that students are our highest priority and the responsibility to maintain a financially-sound institution. Vermilion's staff development and training activities include a variety of learning opportunities: Technology Training and Development 24 Faculty Sabbaticals (contractual benefit) Administrative Sabbaticals Tuition Waivers (contractual benefit) Project Release Time Staff Duty Days Conferences Individual Career Planning Retirement Seminars (not individual retirement counseling) Questions about staff development can be addressed to the Human Resources Office. Statement of Dress At Vermilion Community College, we are very proud of our image as a high-quality educational institution in both the local communities and the larger academic community. Our image is formed, in part by the impression employees make on students and the public. Personal appearance is a factor in creating an impression. Changes in fashion and differences in job assignments make it difficult to create specific guidelines; therefore, we ask that employees help us maintain our positive public image by making clothing choices that are appropriate to their work environment. Leave Usage Clarification - July 2005 College Business Leave: The Employee Guidebook briefly addresses this type of leave, “College business leave is to be requested and authorized prior to taking it, using the written request form available. Any expenses involved should be noted.” The College Business Absence Form states that “Whenever possible, this request should be submitted at least one week in advance for institutional representation and ten days in advance for staff development.” The College Administration will make every effort to review and return requests in the shortest possible time so plans for travel can be made. Special circumstances should be discussed with the supervisor when divergence from the normal procedure may be necessary or time is at issue. Communication between supervisor and employee is the best way for expressing the expectations in a particular department. Conversations regarding the expectations would help to clarify things for all parties. Sick Leave: An employee who calls in to notify the supervisor of illness or has a medical emergency which necessitates leaving work is expected to fill out a request form immediately upon returning to work. Doctor appointments and scheduled surgeries (for example)—planned leave--are to be submitted in advance. A reasonable expectation of the definition of “advanced” should be a topic of discussion between supervisors and employees. In some areas of the college where a replacement may need to be found, a longer period of time may be required. Annual Leave: Approval of this type of leave has been mostly “discretionary” on the part of the supervisor. In some departments, it is important that supervisors know well in advance when vacations and time off are planned. The AFSCME contract says four weeks notice should be given, though many supervisors do not require that much notice. The MAPE contract says vacations should be scheduled at a “time agreeable to the employee insofar as work unit staffing permits.” Personal Leave: This type of leave is specific to faculty. The contracts do not address how to administer approval for leave. Advance notice should be given for leave that is planned. The use of personal leave for unforeseen events/emergencies should be called in to the supervisor. 25 These are the current expectations for employees requesting and using paid leave. Specific questions about departmental expectations, supervisory discretion, and contractual differences should be addressed by employees and their supervisors. Questions regarding paid leave usage or accrual can be addressed to Patti Delich or Deb Buria-Falkowski in the human resources office. A reminder: leave records for employees are maintained in the Provost’s Office. Minnesota Colleges and Universities TUITION WAIVER BENEFIT FOR EMPLOYEES Please see: https://webproc.mnscu.edu/esession/authentication.do?viewLoginForwardName=employeeLogin&campusId= 147&postAuthUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwebproc.mnscu.edu%2Ftw%2Fwaiver%2Fsummary.do%3Bjsessionid%3 DD5C7FD3379490C4A9E2AD81F457C62EB%3Fcampusid%3D147 , or contact the Human Resources staff with any questions regarding this benefit for specific employees. 26 College, State, and System Policies 27 Policy Index Vermilion Community College Updated October 2003 (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) MnSCU Board Policy (Table of Contents) Community Colleges Carry Forward Policies (List) Technical Colleges Carry Forward Policies (List) Minnesota Statutes 2003 (List) Mn Statutes – Chapter 43A (Department of Employee Relations) (List) Category Academics Title Academic Assessment Academic Forgiveness Academic Honors Academic Integrity Policy Academic Standards Admissions Policy ASAP Retest Policy Assessment Testing Policy and Assessment Retest Policy Awarding of College Credit Continuing Education and Custom Training Documented Activities Course Test-out Policy Drop, Add, and Withdrawal Policy Final Exams Finality of Grades First Day No-Show Policy and Procedures Grades for Developmental Courses Grades Incl. Pass/Fail Grading Options First Day No-show Policy and Procedures Independent Study Policy Minnesota Post Secondary Enrollment Options MnSCU website MnSCU website MnSCU website State of MN website State of MN website Date Adopted, Reviewed, or Updated Source of Policy___ May 2002 College October 2001 College April 2002 College July 2003 College October 2001 College July 2003 College April 2002 College July 2003 College July 2003 College October 2001 MnSCU Policy October 2001 College November 2000 October 2001 July 2003 April 2002 October 2001 April 2002 July 2003 October 2001 December 2002 July 2003 and October 2001 March 2001 July 2003 July 2003 November 2001 New Student Assessment Testing Policy Pass/Fail Grading Options Policy Satisfactory Academic Progress Selection of Center for Teaching and Learning Leader 28 College College College College College College College College College College College College College College Tuition and Fees Payment Accounts Receivable Policy Accounts Receivable Collection Timeline July 2003 February 2004 College College Administration Access Policy Fraud and Dishonest Acts Policy Purchasing Policy and Procedure Posting on Bulletin Boards Solicitations of Employees by Private Vendors Use of Computer and Network Systems Policy Vehicle Travel Policy Weather and Emergency Evacuation Policy January 2004 June 2002 July 2003 October 2001 October 2001 March 2004 July 2003 June 2003 College MnSCU Policy College College College College College College Facilities Environmental Health and Safety Tobacco-Free Environment Space Management October 2001 September 2003 July 2003 College M.S. 4620 College Human Resources Affirmative Action (Equal Opportunity Statement) July 2003 (Entire AA Plan is available in several locations within the College) Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) July 1990 Vermilion CC Policy Statement of Compliance July 2003 Data Practices (State Government) Table of Contents 1974-2002 Updates Note of Data Practices Access 2003 Update Domestic Abuse in the Workplace Policy 1979 – 2002 Update Election Day Activities 1981 Employee Right to Know (Act of 1983) 1983 Minnesota Statute 5206, included in manual: o Definitions o Purpose o Harmful physical agents o Infectious agents o Training Evaluation of Faculty by Provost October 2001 Evaluation of Staff by Supervisors August 2002 Health Privacy (HIPAA) 1996 & Jan 2003 Update Hiring Procedures October 2000 HIV/Aids Policy July 2003 Non-Discrimination in Employment and January 2003 29 College Federal Law College M.S. Chapter 13-13C College M.S. 515B M.S. 204C.04 Federal Law College College Federal & State College College College; MnScu Education Policy Student Services 1B.1 State and Federal Law MnSCU Policy College Policy College College, MnSCU, State College College College College College College College College College College College College College; MnSCU 1B.1; State & Fed College Possession or Carry of Firearms Procedures for Accessing Public Information Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence Policy Zero Tolerance of Workplace Violence June 2003 July 2003 January 2003 September 2003 Academic Excellence Scholarships Policy Code of Conduct Commuter Transportation Program Complaint/Grievance Policy Confidentiality of Students’ Records Policy Crime Awareness and Campus Security Disability Services Policy Drug and Alcohol-Free Campus Policy Evaluation of Student Life Program HIV/Aids Policy International Students Judicial Process Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education Opportunity Policy Possession or Carry of Firearms April 2002 July 2003 October 2001 October 2001 October 2001 July 2003 July 2003 July 2003 October 2001 July 2003 October 2001 July 2003 January 2003 Refund of Tuition for Withdrawal from College Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence Policy October 2001 January 2003 State Residency Requirements for Students Student Accounts Receivable Student Complaint/Grievance Policy Student Government Student Life and Student Activity Fee Policy Student Stipends Policy Student Use of Equipment Textbook Assistance Policy Unsubsidized Student Loan Policy Use of Computer and Network Systems Policy Weather Emergencies and Evacuation October 2001 April 2002 October 2001 October 2001 October 2001 October 2001 College College; MnSCU; Federal and State Law College College College College College College October 2001 October 2001 July 2003 June 2003 College College College College July 2003 30 Sources of Policy: College Policy; MnSCU Policy; Minnesota Statute; Federal Law The State of Minnesota promotes a healthy, safe, and fair work environment. For that reason, laws and policies define appropriate behavior and set guidelines for actions. Copies of the policies can be found on the VCC Human Resources website or by contacting the Human Resources Office. Policies following this section of the Guidebook include The Weather Emergencies and College Closing Policy, Nondiscrimination and Sexual Harassment and Violence Policy, Code of Conduct and Ethics, Possession or Carry of Firearms, Tobacco Free Environment, and Zero Tolerance of Workplace Violence. 31 WEATHER EMERGENCIES & EVACUATION Provost: 218-235-2170 Purpose: In accordance with MnSCU Policy 4.4 Weather/Emergency Closings (see attached), the following procedure is followed when it becomes necessary to close the college or cancel academic or non-academic activities, or delay the opening of the college due to inclement weather or other emergency conditions. The procedures will also describe working conditions and the compensation status of employees during the time the College is closed. Definitions: Closing the College – Closing the College means to close all operations other than those operations deemed essential to the protection of life and property. Closing the College results in the cancellation of classes and student, faculty and staff activities and meetings. All general offices are closed. Delayed Opening – Delayed opening refers to closing of all operations for a designated period of time other than those operations deemed essential to the protection of life and property. Cancellation of Classes and/or Activities – Cancellation of classes (off-campus or on-campus) means to cancel one, several, or all classes in the absence of officially closing the entire College. Cancellation of nonacademic activities refers to cancellation of an event such as athletic events, theatrical productions, concerts, or workshops. Authority: In accordance with MnSCU Policy 4.4, the authority to close the college campus, cancel classes or other activities when a weather or other emergency exists resides with the College Provost or Provost’s designee. The closure of state agencies by the Commissioner of the Department of Employee Relations does not supersede the authority of the College Provost; however, the Governor’s orders in a particular situation supersedes the authority of the College Provost. Procedure and Notification: Closing or Delayed Opening. The decision to close or delay opening of the College due to weather or other emergency is made by the Provost. Appropriate notification will be made by Human Resources (responsibility: Patricia Delich, Director of Human Resources) to Christine McGing (651-297-2720) at the MnSCU Public Affairs Office as the decision is made. In times of weather or other emergency conditions, assessment of conditions shall be the responsibility of the Provost. Evacuation Procedures are detailed at the end of this Section. The contact number is 218235-2170. The Provost shall contact personnel at the State Patrol College Headquarters (749-9626) prior to making a decision regarding closing the College or delaying the opening. The Provost (218-235-2170) will identify and inform essential personnel who must report to work during times the college is closed or there is a delayed opening due to emergency procedures. In addition, the Provost will develop procedures for notification of such personnel at these times. The following positions are designated as essential for purposes of closing due to inclement weather or other emergencies: Provost and Administrators assigned by Provost (as needed). Switchboard Operator Building Maintenance Foreman General Repair Worker General Maintenance Worker Director of Residential Life Assistant Director of Residential Life Residence hall assistant (RA) Food Service Coordinator Food Service Worker 32 Notification of employees on duty and/or students that are on campus at the time the emergency closing is determined: Provost or Dean of Students shall inform employees of the emergency at the time of closing. Dean of Students will notify students through appropriate student support services and academic offices. Both employees and students will be notified through announcements on the following radio stations: WELY (365-4444), WEVE (218-741-5922), USA, WTBX, and WMFG (218-262-4545). Determination of closing or delayed opening shall be made by 5 a.m. The Provost (218-235-2170) will be responsible for contacting news media (WELY, USA, WEVE, WTBX, and WMFG—numbers listed above), and television stations WDIO (218-727-6864), KBJR (218-727-8484), and KDLH (218-733-0303) regarding closing and/or delayed opening information. SPECIAL NEEDS - Vermilion Community College recognizes the special needs of deaf/ hard of hearing individuals during the notification process of all employees and students due to closing or cancellation. It is the intent of VCC to establish an individualized method of notification for each deaf/ hard of hearing individuals employee and student. In case of an emergency all employees who are deaf or hard of hearing will receive notification, if at work, by the supervisor or designated backup staff. Employees who are deaf or hard of hearing may arrange for notification at home from their supervisor or designee. If an emergency that affects the employee is called, the supervisor or designee may use the Minnesota Relay Service (1-800627-3529) to contact the employee using the TTY. The following procedures will be taken to help insure the safe evacuation of employees and students in weather or other emergency with the potential of injury or loss of life. Procedure Review Evacuation routes planned from each classroom. Yearly Individualized evacuation route plan – posted in each Yearly classroom. Alarm system review-current alarm system has lights, and sound alarm. System should alert all students / Yearly employees with disabilities- sight impaired, deaf/ hard of hearing and those with mobility impairments. Individualized Plans/Students Personnel assigned responsibilities of assisting with the Semester evacuation of students with disabilities. Sight impaired deaf/ hard of hearing and those with mobility impairments. Individualized Plans/Employees Personnel assigned responsibilities of assisting with the Yearly evacuation of employees with disabilities. Sight impaired deaf/ hard of hearing and those with mobility impairments. 33 Responsibility assigned to Facilities and Equipment Manager 218-235-2125 Faculty in Charge Facilities and Equipment Manager 218-235-2125 Disabilities Director 218-235-2119 Director of Human Resources 218-749-7743 Cancellation of Classes and/or Activities – The decision to cancel one, several or all classes (on and off campus) in the absence of closing the college, will be made by the Provost. Special attention will be given to night classes, many of whose students must travel considerable distance. Weather conditions shall be given considerable weight. MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY: Management will inform employees and students of this procedure by the following methods. This procedure will be permanently posted on all bulletin boards. Each supervisor/administrator shall route a copy of this procedure to each employee and describe the procedure to employees during staff meetings and/or employee departmental briefings. The Director of Human Resources will provide a copy of this procedure to the local representative of each bargaining unit. Residence Hall RAs and staff, clubs and organizations. The Director of Human Resources shall provide each employee who is designated as “weather essential” with a copy of this procedure. A condensed version of this procedure will be published and will be included in the publications provided to students by Student Services as well as in the Employee Guidebook. WORK RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN THE COLLEGE IS CLOSED OR CLASSES AND NON-ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES ARE CANCELLED: Closing the College – When the college is closed due to an emergency, which threatens the health and safety of individuals, employees not deemed vital to the safe operation of the college may be excused from duty with full pay. With regard to such closure, the following additional guidelines will prevail. When a campus is closed, college employees are excused from work with pay. A campus closure applies to all employees without regard to labor contract. Weather or other emergency essential employees who are not excused from work will be paid at their regular rate of pay. Employees who reported to work and were sent home should not be paid for more than their regular scheduled hours. Employees shall not be enriched through additional compensation, including compensatory time, or increased benefits as a result of an emergency situation. Employees who were required by their appointing authorities to remain at work should not be paid for more than their regular (scheduled) hours or the actual number of hours worked inclusive of any overtime. Employees on approved sick or pre-arranged vacation leave shall not have such leave time restored to their balances. Employees on any approved leave with pay shall not be paid for this emergency leave time. Employees who called in, on the day of an emergency, for vacation time, compensatory time or leave without pay will be credited with emergency leave from the point of declaration of the emergency to the end of the scheduled shift, if the appointing authority ceased operations during their regular shift. Employee uniform time reports should indicate the date and number of emergency hours utilized in the remarks section of their uniform time report. An employee’s absence with pay for emergency situations shall not exceed 16 hours during that emergency unless the Provost has authorized a longer period. Cancellation of Classes and/or Activities - When classes are cancelled but the college is not closed, individual faculty shall take personal leave or make appropriate curricular adjustments (for example, scheduling make-up classes, meetings, office hours, or other compensatory activities) as approved by their supervisor. 34 When non-academic activities are cancelled, the activities shall be rescheduled when appropriate and possible. Inclement Weather When the College is Not Closed – Due to personal circumstances during inclement weather, such as place of residence, employees might find it necessary to leave work early even though the college has not been closed. Further, employees might be unable to get to work even though the college is open. In such cases, emergency/personal leave or vacation leave may be granted or, if working conditions permit, the time may be made up, at the discretion of the supervisor. Emergency and Building Evacuation Procedures The College has developed building evacuation procedures for use in the event of an emergency to ensure the safe exit of all individuals. In addition the College develops individual plans to ensure the safe evacuation for individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability that would be problematic in an evacuation please contact the College Administration for accommodation in evacuations at the beginning of the semester. If you live in a Residence Hall please contact the Director of Residence Life. Procedure Review Individualized Plans Personnel assigned responsibilities of assisting with the Semester evacuation of students with disabilities. Sight impaired deaf/ hard of hearing and those with mobility impairments. Individualized Plans Personnel assigned responsibilities of assisting with the Semester evacuation of students with disabilities that live in Residence Hall. Sight impaired deaf/ hard of hearing and those with mobility impairments. Individualized Plans Personnel assigned responsibilities of assisting with the evacuation of employees with disabilities. Sight impaired Yearly deaf/ hard of hearing and those with mobility impairments. 35 Responsibility assigned to: Disabilities Director 218-235-2119 Director of Residence Life 218-235-2125 Director of Human Resources 218-749-7743 Emergency Procedures Evacuation for Fire, Bomb Threats, Hazardous Materials, or any other incident that requires evacuation: In the event of a bomb threat/hazardous materials: Employee notifies maintenance staff via cell phone 235-1870 or 343-1711. Personnel will activate the Vermilion EVAX System and 911. In the event of fire: The alarm automatically sounds and directs immediate evacuation of the building. Alarm system automatically contacts 911. Once alarm system is activated: o Evacuate the building and proceed to a safe area at least 500 feet from the building. o Faculty and staff assist in getting students out of the building. Special care should be taken to assist students with disabilities. Maps are posted in classrooms and hallways indicating the most direct exit route. o Residence hall staff assists in evacuation of the residence hall. o Identified Building Check Staff must check to determine building is fully evacuated (Appendix B). o Keep doors, streets, fire lanes, hydrant areas, and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel. o Do not return to the building until notified of “all clear.” o Report is filed immediately following incident and shared with appropriate personnel. o A debriefing session will take place following the incident for all persons involved. o The Core Crisis Management Team will meet to evaluate incident procedures. Building Lockdown for Use of Weapons, Terrorist Threat, Severe Weather, or any other incident that requires lockdown: In the event of a lockdown: Employee notifies maintenance staff of threat via cell phone 235-1870 or 343-1711. Personnel will activate the Vermilion EVAX System and 911. Keep all students, faculty, and staff inside classrooms or offices, turn off lights, and lock all doors and windows, if possible. In the event of severe weather/tornado: When city sirens and/or weather radios indicate severe weather is in the immediate area, personnel will activate the Vermilion EVAX System. (See Appendix C for severe weather safe areas) o Tornado Watch: When a tornado watch is announced, this means that weather conditions are favorable for strong winds, rain and possible tornado. Maintenance staff will monitor local radio, weather radio and Internet weather sites for information about current local conditions. o Tornado Warning: When a tornado warning is issued by the National Weather Service, a tornado has been sighted or has been indicated by radar. In Ely, the public warning system (sirens) will sound as well as a public warning will be given over the radio (tune to WELY, 94.5 FM/1450AM). In the event of a tornado warning, the college alarm system will be activated by the lead maintenance staff as indicated in the “Emergency Procedures” section of this manual. Once alarm system is activated: o Seek shelter behind desks/tables. o Identified Building Check Staff check halls for students and bring them into a safe area. o Residence Hall staff assists in bringing residents to safe areas. These staff members also assist Northern Terrace occupants to safe areas. o Care for injured persons until emergency personnel arrive. o Remain in safe area until “all clear” signal is given. o Report is filed immediately following incident and shared with appropriate personnel. 36 o o A debriefing session will take place following the incident for all persons involved. The Core Crisis Management Team will meet to evaluate incident procedures. Additional information for specific situations: Armed individual enters classroom: o If possible notify somebody outside of room. o Do as the gunman demands. o Do not make sudden moves, ask permission to move. o Never argue. o Take your time. o Keep students as calm as possible. o Refrain from physical force unless someone’s life is in imminent danger. o Talk with the gunman, learn as much as possible about he/she. o Keep the gunman’s attention on you, not on your students. o If more than one person is involved, concentrate on only one person. o Be observant; mentally record a detailed description of the individual and the weapon. o Identify distinctive features. o Remember what objects the intruder touches and preserve these for law enforcement. o Preserve the crime scene and do not disturb any possible evidence. o If the gunman starts shooting, tell students to get down and lie on the floor or take cover behind equipment or furniture. Suspicious Package Do not open, move, or touch anything suspicious, such as: o Packages with wires, foils, and/or oily stains. o Cut and paste labels. o Package with a sloshing noise. o Package with resistance upon opening. o Package with a strong odor. o Package with unusual shapes or bulges in combination with the above. o Notify maintenance staff via cell phones 349-7350 or 343-1711.Call goes into 911 if threat is determined. o Evacuation procedures may be implemented if needed as emergency response. Power Failure o Stay where you are and remain calm. o Wait for further instructions. o If instructed to evacuate, do so in accordance with building evacuation procedures. Accident or Illness o In an emergency situation call 911 and seek assistance from others. Contact administration. o Do not attempt to move an injured or sick individual. o Be careful to avoid contact with any body fluids such as blood, vomit, or saliva. o Stay with the victim and reassure that help is on the way. 37 EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS Immediate Help (Fire, Police, Rescue Squad) 9-1-1 Provost’s Assistant (Daytime) 218-235-2169 College Provost (Daytime) (Evening) 218-235-2170 218-206-4322 Director of Residence and Facilities 218-235-2125 Ely Police Department 218-365-3222 Ely Fire Department 218-365-3227 Ely Community Hospital 218-365-3271 Duluth Clinic-ELY (medical appointments) 218-365-3151 38 1B.1 NONDISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY POLICY Updated November 2006 Part 1. Policy Statement. Vermilion Community College (VCC) is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in, programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. In addition, discrimination in employment based on membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law is prohibited. Harassment on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation is prohibited. Harassment may occur in a variety of relationships, including faculty and student, supervisor and employee, student and student, staff and student, employee and employee, and other relationships with persons having business at, or visiting the educational or working environment. This policy is directed at verbal or physical conduct that constitutes discrimination /harassment under state and federal law and is not directed at the content of speech. In cases in which verbal statements and other forms of expression are involved, VCC will give due consideration to an individual’s constitutionally protected right to free speech and academic freedom. However, discrimination and harassment are not within the protections of academic freedom or free speech. VCC shall maintain and encourage full freedom, within the law, of expression, inquiry, teaching and research. Academic freedom comes with a responsibility that all members of our education community benefit from it without intimidation, exploitation or coercion. This policy shall apply to all individuals affiliated with VCC, including but not limited to, its students, employees, applicants, volunteers, and agents, and is intended to protect the rights and privacy of both the complainant and respondent and other involved individuals, as well as to prevent retaliation or reprisal. Individuals who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary or other corrective action. This policy supersedes all existing college non-discrimination policies. Part 2. Definitions. Subpart A. Consensual Relationship. A sexual or romantic relationship between two persons who voluntarily enter into such a relationship. Employees who are members of the same household should also refer to the MnSCU Board of Trustees Nepotism policy 4.10. Subpart B. Discrimination. Discrimination is defined as conduct that is directed at an individual because of his or her protected class and that subjects the individual to different treatment by agents or employees so as to interfere with or limit the ability of the individual to participate in, or benefit from, the services, activities, or privileges provided by the system or colleges and universities or otherwise adversely affects the individual's employment or education. Subpart C. Discriminatory harassment. Discriminatory harassment is defined as verbal or physical conduct that is directed at an individual because of his or her protected class, and that is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile work or educational environment. As required by law, Vermilion Community College has further defined sexual harassment as a form of sexual discrimination which is prohibited by state and federal law. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: 39 1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or education, evaluation of a student's academic performance, or term or condition of participation in student activities or in other events or activities sanctioned by the college; or 2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions or other decisions about participation in student activities or other events or activities sanctioned by the college; or 3. Such conduct has the purpose and effect of threatening an individual's employment; interfering with an individual's work or academic performance; or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or educational environment. Subpart D. Employee. Vermilion Community College personnel include all faculty, staff, administrators, teaching assistants, residence directors and student employees. Subpart E. Protected Class. Protected class for the purpose of this policy means that discrimination and harassment in employment and education are prohibited on the basis of: race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance or sexual orientation. In addition, membership or activity in a local human rights commission is a protected class in employment. Subpart F. Retaliation. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, intentionally engaging in any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment against an individual because he or she made a complaint under this policy or assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation, or process under this policy, regardless of whether a claim of discrimination or harassment is substantiated; or associated with a person or group of persons who are disabled or are of a different race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation or national origin. Retaliation may occur whether or not there is a power or authority differential between the individuals involved. Subpart G. Sexual harassment and violence as sexual abuse. Under certain circumstances, sexual harassment or violence may constitute sexual abuse according to Minnesota law. In such situations, the college shall comply with the reporting requirements in Minnesota Statutes Section 626.556 (reporting of maltreatment of minors) and Minnesota Statutes Section 626.557 (Vulnerable Adult Protection Act). Nothing in this policy will prohibit the college from taking immediate action to protect victims of alleged sexual abuse. Vermilion Community College Sexual Violence Policy addresses sexual violence. Subpart H. Student. “Student” means an individual who is: 1. admitted, enrolled, registered to take or is taking one or more courses, classes, or seminars, credit or noncredit, at the college; or 2. between terms of a continuing course of study at the college, such as summer break between spring and fall academic terms; or 3. expelled or suspended from enrollment as a student at the college, during the pendency of any adjudication of the student disciplinary action. Part 3. Consensual Relationships. An employee of Vermilion Community College shall not enter into a consensual relationship with a student or an employee over whom he or she exercises direct or otherwise significant academic, administrative, supervisory, evaluative, counseling, or extracurricular authority or influence. In the event a relationship already exists, the college shall develop a procedure to reassign evaluative authority as may be possible to avoid violations of this policy. This prohibition does not limit the right of an employee to make a recommendation on personnel matters concerning a family or household member where the right to make recommendations on such personnel matters is explicitly provided for in the applicable collective bargaining agreement or compensation plan. Part 4. Retaliation. Retaliation as defined in this policy is prohibited by the college. Any individual subject to this policy who intentionally engages in retaliation shall be subject to disciplinary or other corrective action as appropriate. 40 Report/Complaints of Discrimination/Harassment Investigation and Resolution atmosphere of inclusiveness and respect. Harassment and discrimination will not be tolerated. Any member of the college community has the right to file a report/complaint if an incident(s) of discrimination or harassment occurs. Vermilion Community College, a member of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) system, will follow MnSCU Procedure 1B.1.1. Reports/complaints will be handled in accordance with this procedure. For more information or to report suspected harassment or discrimination, contact: Doug Furnstahl 218-235-2119 d.furnstahl@vcc.edu Kristi L’Allier 218-235-2153 k.lallier@vcc.edu 1B.3 SEXUAL VIOLENCE POLICY Updated April 2004 Part 1. Policy statement. Sexual violence is an intolerable intrusion into the most personal and private rights of an individual, and is prohibited at Vermilion Community College. VCC is committed to eliminating sexual violence in all forms and will take appropriate remedial action against any individual found responsible for acts in violation of this policy. Acts of sexual violence may also constitute violations of criminal or civil law, or other VCC or MnSCU policies that may require separate proceedings. To further its commitment against sexual violence, Vermilion Community College provides reporting options, internal mechanisms for dispute resolution, and prevention training or other related services as appropriate. Subpart A. Application of policy to students, employees, and others. This policy applies to all Vermilion Community College students and employees and to others, as appropriate, where alleged incidents of sexual violence have occurred on college property. Incidents of sexual violence alleged to have been committed by a student at a location other than on college property are covered by this policy pursuant to the factors listed in MnSCU Board Policy 3.6, Part 2 (Off Campus Conduct). Incidents of sexual violence alleged to have been committed by a Vermilion Community College employee at a location other than college property are covered by this policy. Individuals alleged to have committed acts of sexual violence on college property who are not students or employees are subject to appropriate actions by Vermilion Community College, including, but not limited to, pursuing criminal or civil action against them. Allegations of discrimination or harassment are governed by the Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education Opportunity Policy. Subpart B. Procedure. Vermilion Community College, a member of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities (MnSCU) system, will follow MnSCU Procedure 1B.3.1 (Sexual Violence Procedure). Part 2. Definitions. The following definitions apply to this Policy and Procedure 1B.3.1. Subpart A. Sexual violence. Sexual violence includes a continuum of conduct that includes sexual assault, and non-forcible sex acts, as well as aiding acts of sexual violence. Subpart B. Sexual assault. “Sexual assault” means an actual, attempted, or threatened sexual act with another person without that person’s consent. Sexual assault is often a criminal act that can be prosecuted 41 under Minnesota law, as well as form the basis for discipline under Vermilion Community College student conduct codes and employee disciplinary standards. Sexual assault includes but is not limited to: 1. Involvement without consent in any sexual act in which there is force, expressed or implied, or use of duress or deception upon the victim. Forced sexual intercourse is included in this definition, as are the acts commonly referred to as “date rape” or “acquaintance rape.” This definition also includes the coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force sexual intercourse or a sexual act on another. 2. Involvement in any sexual act when the victim is unable to give consent. 3. The intentional touching or coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force another to touch an unwilling person’s intimate parts (defined as primary genital area, groin, inner thigh, buttocks, or breast). 4. Offensive sexual behavior that is directed at another such as indecent exposure or voyeurism. Subpart C. Consent. Consent is informed, freely given and mutually understood. If coercion, intimidation, threats, and/or physical force are used, there is no consent. If the complainant is mentally or physically incapacitated or impaired so that the complainant cannot understand the fact, nature, or extent of the sexual situation, and the condition was known or would be known to a reasonable person, there is no consent; this includes conditions due to alcohol or drug consumption, or being asleep or unconscious. Whether the respondent has taken advantage of a position of influence over the complainant may be a factor in determining consent. Subpart D. Non-forcible sex acts. Non-forcible acts include unlawful sexual acts where consent is not relevant, such as sexual contact with an individual under the statutory age of consent, as defined by Minnesota law, or between persons who are related to each other within degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law. Subpart E. College property. “College property” means the facilities and land owned, leased, or under the primary control of Vermilion Community College. Subpart F. Employee. “Employee” means any individual employed by Vermilion Community College, including student workers. Subpart G. Student. “Student” means an individual who is: 1. admitted, enrolled, registered to take or is taking one or more courses, classes, or seminars, credit or noncredit, at the college; or 2. between terms of a continuing course of study at the college, such as summer break between spring and fall academic terms; or 3. expelled or suspended from enrollment as a student at the college, during the pendency of any adjudication of the student disciplinary action. Part 3. Actions for Victims of Sexual Violence 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Get to a safe place. Tell someone: family member, friend, counselor, advisor, someone at the college. Do not shower, douche or wash your clothing; do not comb your hair. Do not disturb any physical evidence at the scene. Call the Sexual Assault Program, 218-749-4725 (Virginia) or 800-300-3102. Ask to speak to a sexual assault advocate who can meet you at the hospital, the police station or sheriff’s office. 6. Go to the Ely Clinic, 300 West Conan Street, 218-365-7900, or other medical facility for an exam. You will be checked for injuries, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, and pregnancy. This is important not only for your health, but also if you decide to press criminal charges. Having an evidentiary exam does not obligate you to file a criminal report. 7. Victims of sexual assault are encouraged to report the crime to the local law enforcement (911). 42 8. Seek assistance from a counselor, therapist, advocate or support group. VCC counselor Cindy AndersonBina, 218-235-2121, c.bina@vcc.edu, is a trained advocate for victims of sexual assault. 9. Contact Range Women’s Advocates, 218-749-5054, or 800-343-5054, if you are a victim of domestic violence Part 4. Reporting Sexual Violence VCC encourages the reporting of any and all incidents of sexual violence to a law enforcement agency. VCC will provide advocacy and support for any person who chooses to report a crime of sexual violence. 1. Victims of sexual violence have the right to file criminal charges. 2. A report of sexual violence that is made to the college will be reported to law enforcement only at the request and with permission of the victim, except when the laws pertaining to minors and vulnerable adults apply. 3. If you have experienced, or have questions about, sexual violence, you and/or a person of your choice can see a contact person at the college for assistance: Doug Furnstahl 218-235-2119 d.furnstahl@vcc.edu Kristi L’Allier 218-235-2153 k.lallier@vcc.edu 4. You may also ask contact Patti Delich, Director of Human Resources, at 218-749-7743. 5. Victims of sexual violence are encouraged to seek assistance from a counselor, therapist, advocate or support group. Bill of Rights for Victims of Sexual Violence 1. Victims of sexual violence have the right to file criminal charges. 2. Within one working day of being requested to do so by the victim, the Harassment Officer will notify appropriate law enforcement officials of an incident of sexual violence. 3. The victim has the right to participate in and be present in any disciplinary proceeding concerning a sexual violence complaint. The victim’s attorney and/or other support person may also be present at such proceedings. 4. Vermilion Community College will notify the victim of the outcome of any campus disciplinary proceeding concerning a sexual violence complaint, consistent with laws relating to data practices. 5. At the discretion of the law enforcement authorities, Vermilion Community College will be complete and prompt in obtaining, securing, and maintaining evidence in connection with an incident of sexual violence. 6. Vermilion Community College will preserve, for a victim or complainant, materials relevant to a campus disciplinary proceeding. 7. At the victim’s request, Vermilion Community College will shield the victim from unwanted contact with the alleged assailant. If such a request is made, all attempts will be made to provide alternative classes or work opportunities. 8. You may contact the Office of the Crime Victims Ombudsman, 651-201-7310 or 800-247-0390, if you feel that your rights have been violated or that you have been treated unfairly by the criminal justice system. 9. You may contact the Minnesota Crime Victims Reparations Board, 651-201-7300 or 888-6228799, to determine if you are eligible for assistance with financial losses due to the crime. 43 Unresolved Questions or Grievances Discrimination complaints not addressed or processed by means of this policy may be referred to: Commissioner of Human Rights Minnesota Department of Human Rights 190 East 5th Street; Suite 700 St. Paul, MN 55101 800-657-3704 www.humanrights.state.mn.us Questions about sexual harassment and sexual violence can also be directed to: Office of the Attorney General 102 State Capitol St. Paul, MN 55155-1002 651-296-3353 or 1-800-657-3787 44 BOARD POLICY: Chapter 1 - System Organization and Administration Section C - Code of Conduct & Ethics 1C.2 Fraudulent or Other Dishonest Acts Part 1. Purpose. MnSCU is committed to creating an environment where fraudulent and other dishonest acts are not tolerated. All MnSCU employees are responsible for complying with the State Code of Ethics (Minnesota Statutes Section 43A.38), other state statutes and board policies that govern their conduct, and ensuring that all resources entrusted to them are used ethically, prudently, and for their designated purpose. In addition, to ensure that MnSCU resources are used appropriately, managers and supervisors are responsible for educating employees about proper conduct, creating an environment that deters dishonesty and maintaining internal controls that provide reasonable assurance of achieving management objectives, and detecting dishonest acts. Furthermore, managers and supervisors must be cognizant of the risks and exposures inherent in their area of responsibility and be aware of symptoms of fraudulent or dishonest acts, should they occur. This policy establishes responsibilities for investigating potential incidents of fraud or other dishonest acts, taking remedial actions, and reporting evidence to the Legislative Auditor and other appropriate authorities. Part 2. Applicability. This policy applies to all MnSCU trustees and, employees, including faculty (fulltime, adjunct and part-time faculty), administrative staff, and student employees. It also requires employees to report the actions of other parties that may result in financial losses or possible criminal conduct affecting MnSCU resources or information. These other parties include (1) students; (2) contractors and vendors; (3) organizations affiliated with MnSCU, including foundations governed by MnSCU policy 8.3; and (4) any other person or organization that uses MnSCU resources or information, with or without authorization. This policy does not apply to destruction or misappropriation of personal or private property. Those matters shall be reported to appropriate college, university, or Office of the Chancellor officials and to law enforcement officials when appropriate. Also, substantiated violations involving personal or private property are subject to personnel action or discipline under the student conduct code. This policy does not apply to allegations of academic misconduct. Those matters shall be referred to appropriate college or university officials. This policy also does not apply to allegations of discrimination or harassment. Those matters are governed by MnSCU policy 1.B.1. Part 3. Definitions. Subpart A. Dishonest act. A dishonest act generally involves a deliberate act or failure to act with the intention of obtaining an unauthorized benefit, destruction of property or otherwise fraudulent behavior. Dishonest acts include, but are not limited to: Theft or misappropriation of funds, long distance telephone services, supplies, property, computer software, intellectual property, or other resources; Forgery or alteration of documents; Bribery or attempted bribery; Unauthorized use of records or access to information systems, including unauthorized sharing of computer security clearances; Unauthorized alteration, manipulation, or destruction of computer files and data; Falsification of reports to management or external agencies; 45 Conflicts of interest that pursue a personal benefit or advantage while compromising the public interest; Improper handling or reporting of financial transactions; Authorizing or receiving compensation for goods not received or services not performed; Authorizing or receiving compensation for hours not worked; Incurring obligations in excess of appropriation authority, and Willful violation of laws, regulations or policies, or contractual obligations when conducting MnSCU business. Subpart B. Fraud Inquiry. A fraud inquiry is the initial process for examining complaints, allegations, and other possible evidence of dishonest acts. The objective of a fraud inquiry is to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to warrant a fraud investigation. Subpart C. Fraud Investigation. A fraud investigation is the process of collecting and examining evidence to determine whether a dishonest act involving possible criminal action or significant financial loss has occurred. Part 4. Responsibilities. Subpart A. Compliance. Dishonest acts are prohibited pursuant to this policy and applicable law. Employees found to have committed a dishonest act as defined by this policy shall be subject to sanctions, restitution and other remedies as deemed appropriate by MnSCU officials. Subpart B. Employee reporting of suspected fraudulent or other dishonest acts. An employee with a reasonable basis for believing fraudulent or other dishonest acts have occurred has a responsibility to report the suspected act in a timely manner. Reports should be made to the employee's immediate supervisor or manager, unless the employee suspects that the supervisor or manager has participated in or condoned the act. In that case, the employee should report the matter to the next highest level of supervision or management or directly to the college, university, or Office of the Chancellor Director of Human Resources. Employees are encouraged to report matters through their designated college, university or Office of the Chancellor channels, but may report any matters directly to the MnSCU Office of Internal Auditing. This policy shall not prohibit prompt notification to appropriate authorities when an immediate threat to personal safety exists or other circumstances justify such notice. Upon discovering evidence of possible fraudulent or dishonest acts, employees should not confront individuals suspected of wrongdoing or initiate fraud investigations on their own because such actions may compromise any ensuing investigation. Employees shall not make statements or disclosures knowing they are false or in reckless disregard of the truth. Subpart C. Conducting a fraud inquiry. Presidents, the Chancellor, or the Executive Director of Internal Auditing shall be responsible for conducting fraud inquiries to determine whether evidence of fraudulent or other dishonest acts is substantiated and merits a fraud investigation or other remedy. Presidents or the Chancellor may seek the assistance of the Office of Internal Auditing in conducting fraud inquiries. If a fraud inquiry reveals evidence of possible criminal action or significant financial loss, then a fraud investigation shall be conducted pursuant to Part 4, Subpart D of this policy. If a fraud inquiry does not reveal evidence of possible criminal actions or significant financial loss related to a dishonest act, 46 but substantiates a violation of state or federal law, MnSCU or college or university policies, or other applicable requirements, the matter shall be referred to the appropriate campus or Office of the Chancellor official for further action. Any incident that reveals possible employee misconduct may be subject to a personnel investigation by the college, university, or Office of the Chancellor, as appropriate, and subject to personnel action in accordance with the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement or other personnel plan. Subpart D. Conducting a fraud investigation. If it is determined under Part 4, Subpart C that a fraud inquiry merits a fraud investigation, the president or Chancellor shall report the matter to the Office of Internal Auditing. The president or Chancellor shall consult with the Executive Director of Internal Auditing to determine responsibilities for conducting the fraud investigation. The MnSCU General Counsel, the Legislative Auditor, or other administrative officials also shall be consulted, as appropriate and when required by this policy. Part 5. Remedial Actions. If a fraud investigation substantiates that a violation has occurred, the following remedial actions against or by MnSCU employees shall be taken as appropriate: Subpart A. Recovery of Losses. Appropriate action will be taken to recover assets lost as a result of an act of dishonesty. Full recovery will constitute the value of benefits gained by an employee or beneficiary other than MnSCU or the documented loss, whichever is larger, and, if appropriate, the cost of investigation, recovery, or other costs. For misuse of longdistance telephone services, recoveries must include the fair market value of the service, taxes, and interest. All reasonable means, consistent with state law, will be sought to recover losses, including voluntary repayments, withholding from salary and wages, insurance proceeds when applicable, and legal action when necessary. Significant financial losses shall be reported to the Vice Chancellor - Chief Financial Officer. Dishonest acts that result in significant loss or damage to electronic information or information systems shall be reported to the MnSCU Chief Information Officer. The MnSCU General Counsel shall determine whether the evidence available and the cost of recovery justify legal action to recover losses. Subpart B. Referral to Law Enforcement. A college, university or Office of the Chancellor shall consult with the MnSCU General Counsel prior to disclosing private or confidential data on employees to law enforcement authorities pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 13.43, subd. 15. Subpart C. Internal Control Deficiencies. The Office of Internal Auditing shall consider whether evidence of possible fraudulent or other dishonest acts reveals areas or practices in college, university, or system internal controls needing modification. The Office of Internal Auditing shall recommend corrective actions to the president or chancellor, as appropriate, and the Vice Chancellor - Chief Financial Officer. Internal Auditing shall follow-up on its recommendations and report progress to the board of trustees consistent with procedures for audit follow-up. Subpart D. Employee Disciplinary Actions. Employees found to have participated in fraudulent or other dishonest acts, or any employee who hinders a fraud inquiry or investigation by making a false or misleading statement, or any employee who has knowledge of a dishonest act, but fails to report it according to this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action. The appropriate campus official or Vice Chancellor for Human Resources shall determine whether employee disciplinary action is warranted. The 47 provisions of collective bargaining agreements shall be observed for any employee disciplinary proceedings. Part 6. Data Practices. Fraud inquiry or investigation data must be handled in accordance with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act and other applicable law. Part 7. Whistleblower Protection. Employees who report suspected fraudulent or other dishonest acts pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 181.932 shall be protected from retaliation. The identity of information sources shall be protected when required by Minnesota Statutes Section 181.932 or Minnesota Statutes Section 13.392. Part 8. Other Policies. This policy shall not be construed to limit the ability to enforce any other applicable policy or law not incorporated under this policy or to limit the remedies available for violations that occur. Part 9. Reporting to the Board of Trustees and the Legislative Auditor. The Executive Director of Internal Auditing shall notify the Board of Trustees of any significant violations of law or board policies, as required by board policy 1D, or any material departures from this policy. The Executive Director of Internal Auditing is responsible for reporting evidence to the Office of the Legislative Auditor as required by Minnesota Statutes Sections 10.47, 43A.39, and 609.456, Subdivision 2 and, if federal funds are involved, to the responsible federal authority. Employees who have reported evidence according to the provisions of this policy will have fulfilled their statutory reporting obligations for reporting to the Office of the Legislative Auditor. Suspected theft or other wrong doing by employees of the State of Minnesota (Vermilion Community College) should be reported to the following individuals: Mary B. DuBois – Provost (218) 235-2170 Patricia Delich – Director of Human Resources Virginia Campus (218) 749-7743 The Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System is an Equal Opportunity employer and educator. 48 5.21 Possession or Carry of Firearms Part 1. Purpose and Scope. The purpose of this policy is to establish restrictions on possession or carry of firearms applicable to the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, in accordance with the Minnesota Citizens' Personal Protection Act of 2003, Minnesota Statutes section 624.714, and other applicable law. Part 2. Definitions. Subpart A. Employee. "Employee" means any individual employed by Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, its colleges and universities and the Office of the Chancellor, including student employees. Subpart B. Firearm. "Firearm" means a gun, whether loaded or unloaded, that discharges shot or a projectile by means of an explosive, a gas or compressed air. Subpart C. Pistol. "Pistol" means a weapon as defined in Minnesota Statutes section 624.712, subd. 2. Subpart D. Student. "Student" means an individual who is: 1. registered to take or is taking one or more courses, classes, or seminars, credit or noncredit, at any System college or university; or 2. between terms of a continuing course of study at the college or university, such as summer break between spring and fall academic terms; or 3. expelled or suspended from enrollment as a student at the college or university, during the pendency of any adjudication of the student disciplinary action. Subpart E. System property. "System property" means the facilities and land owned, leased, or under the primary control of Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, its Board of Trustees, Office of the Chancellor, colleges, and universities. Subpart F. Visitor. "Visitor" means any person who is on System property, but does not include (1) an employee of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities acting in the course and scope of their employment; or (2) a student, when that student is on System property. Part 3. General. No person is permitted to carry or possess a firearm on System property except as provided in this policy. Subpart A. Employees. 1. Prohibition. Employees are prohibited from possessing or carrying a firearm while acting in the course and scope of their employment, either on or off System property, regardless of whether the employee has a permit to carry a firearm, except as otherwise provided in this policy. 2. Licensed peace officers. Subpart 3.A.1. does not apply to employees who are licensed peace officers under Minnesota Statutes section 626.84, subd.1(c), when assigned by the college or university to public safety duties. 3. Employee reporting responsibility. An employee with a reasonable basis for believing an individual is in possession of or carrying a firearm in violation of this policy has a responsibility to report the suspected act in a timely manner, unless doing so would subject the employee or others to physical harm. Reports should be made to the official designated in the applicable policy of the college, university or Office of the Chancellor. This policy shall not prohibit prompt notification to 49 when an immediate threat to personal appropriate law enforcement authorities safety exists. Employees shall not make reports of a suspected violation knowing they are false or in reckless disregard of the truth. Tobacco Free Environment Updated June 2004 All Vermilion Community College facilities and vehicles are tobacco free. Smoking or chewing tobacco is prohibited at all times, and violations will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion. Smoking and chewing tobacco use must occur at least 25 feet away from any building in designated areas only. Vermilion Community College has two designated smoking areas: 1. East Entrance Courtyard 2. West Side Entrance Lower Natural Resources Building (NS Building) Zero Tolerance of Workplace Violence September 2003 It is the policy of Vermilion Community College to promote and maintain a workplace free from violence, threats of violence, harassment, intimidation and other disruptive behavior. Violence and threats of violence in our workplace will not be tolerated; all reports of violent behavior will be taken seriously and will be dealt with appropriately. Vermilion Community College will work to provide a safe workplace for employees and visitors to the workplace. Each employee and everyone with whom we come into contact in our work will be treated with courtesy and respect. Vermilion Community College will: Actively work to prevent and eliminate acts of work-related violence. Respond promptly, positively and aggressively to deal with threats or acts of violence, including timely involvement of law enforcement agencies when appropriate. Treat seriously incidents of work-related threats or acts of violence, promptly investigate reports of such actions, and take action as necessary to appropriately address each incident. Take strong disciplinary action, up to and including discharge from employment, against employees who are involved in the commission of work-related threats or acts of violence. Support criminal prosecution of those who threaten or commit work-place violence against College employees, or against visitors to our work environment. Provide information and training for employees to foster a work environment that is safe, respectful, and responsive to threats or acts of violence. Vermilion Community College prohibits the possession of firearms and other dangerous weapons in the workplace. 50 Academic Affairs 51 ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Contact: Dr. Mary B. DuBois, Provost (218-235-2170) New Faculty Mentors The philosophy of the new faculty mentoring program is to make newly hired faculty feel welcome to the college. Faculty mentors are volunteers from the new employee’s discipline. The mentors are committed to being available to assist a colleague in becoming familiar with the facility, the staff, and the procedures and will provide additional information when requested throughout the year. Check with your mentor or Dr. Collins for further information on: Class lists and first day no-shows Course test-outs Credentials/Licensure Curriculum changes Deficiency Notices Drop/Adds Grades How to obtain supplies/equipment Interventions Pass/fail option for grades Request to be absent and leave forms Satisfactory progress of students Withdrawals Assessment: Classroom assessment is used for both formative and evaluative purposes at VCC. Each instructor must submit an assessment plan and conduct periodic assessments throughout the year. Detailed requirements are provided by the College’s Assessment Program and its Coordinator, Sharon Evensen. Course Outlines: Each course has an outline explaining what the course must contain regarding content and outcomes. Course outlines are the official college record of the curriculum and are stored on the College’s shared website. Course Syllabi: Each instructor is required to have a syllabus on file in the Administrative Office for each course he/she is teaching no later than one week after the beginning of the term. Syllabi are revised at the discretion of the faculty member and should be given to students at the first class meeting. Student Evaluation/Assignments: Class related exams and assignments will be graded and/or assessed in an appropriate manner and returned to the student in a reasonable length of time. In those cases where an instructor deems it necessary, the instructor may retain the exam or assignment after student review. When exams are not returned to students, it is recommended policy to retain them intact for a minimum of one year beyond the term the grade was given. Final Exams/Schedules: Each faculty member is expected to conduct some form of student evaluation during the regular final exam time period. Final examinations are held according to a schedule that is issued by the administration. (See pages 15 & 16) All students must take scheduled final examinations. Any circumstances that require a special examination arrangement other than the exam specifically scheduled must be arranged by a petition to the Provost prior to the tenth day before the end of the semester. Only under extreme circumstances will students be allowed to change final exam dates. 52 Student Attendance Policy: Regular attendance in all classes and labs is expected. All instructors hold students responsible for the work of their courses but may differ in their treatment of absences. The student must be informed of the attendance policy of the individual instructor. The attendance policy should be included with an instructor’s course syllabus. A student who must be absent or is ill should notify his/her instructor and make specific arrangements to complete the work missed. Students missing class will be identified and reported to the advising staff using the Retention Intervention Plan form. Student Discipline: A Code of Conduct is outlined in the Student Handbook. Violations must be dealt with through proper procedures and suspensions and dismissal from a course or the college is determined by the Dean of Students and Administrative Services with procedure for appeals followed as outlined in the Student Handbook. Academic Dishonesty: Faculty members are encouraged to report incidents of academic dishonesty to the Provost. Forms to report such incidents are available through the faculty secretary’s office. Confidentiality of Student Records: The Minnesota Data Practices Act and Sections 438-440 of the Federal General Education Provisions Act list as private student data, not accessible to the public, “academic information including transcripts, grades, and test results.” Papers carrying grades or test results identified by students’ names are to be hand returned to students. All posting of grades or test results must also guard student privacy. Student records kept in the Records Office are considered confidential information. This information is available only upon approved request. See the advising staff for further details. Posting of Office Hours: Faculty members are to maintain office hours for consultation with students. Copies of faculty office hours are to be posted on their office doors at the beginning of each term. Meet and Confer: There is a meet and confer process for faculty and administration to exchange views. They meet on a regular basis according to a printed schedule. Academic Affairs and Standards Council: The purpose of this Council is to provide direction to the College administration in all matters of academic affairs, including course outlines, award requirements, academic standards, course and program components, and the inventory of course and program offerings. The Council consists of two-thirds faculty members and one-third administrators and/or other staff. 53 Fiscal Affairs 54 Purchasing Procedures MnSCU Board Policy 5.14.5 authorizes state colleges and universities to make purchases up to $50,000. Minnesota State Colleges and Universities are required to follow the purchasing requirements as defined in Minnesota Stature 471.345, Uniform Municipal Contract Law. Funds must be encumbered prior to making an obligation through an authorized employee certifying that the accounting system shows sufficient allotment or encumbrance balance cost center or appropriation to meet the obligation. An expenditure or obligation authorized or incurred prior to encumbering funds is illegal and ineligible for payment until made valid and is in violation of M.S. 16A.15, Subd. 3. An employee authorizing or making the payment, or taking part in it, is liable to the state for the amount paid. A knowing violation of MS 16A.15, Subd. 3 is just cause for the employee's removal. The state cannot agree to indemnify third parties or hold them harmless (MS 10.17; Minn. Const. Art. XI, Sec. 1). To purchase supplies, rentals, services, materials, equipment, etc. complete a Requisition for Purchase form Non-Personnel Request Form (NPR. This form must include your six digit Cost Center, Vendor Name, Vendor Number (if known), the Vendor address and phone number and a complete description of the item or services being purchased. If you are using a new vendor you must include their Federal and State Tax Identification Numbers. Include the State Contract number, if applicable. Complete the form by filling in the quantity, prices and stock/item numbers of items you are ordering. Fill in the total at the bottom of the form, obtain appropriate signatures, and forward to the Provost or Dean of Finance for approval. Bidding Procedures: A. B. Purchase Limits 0 - $10,000 $10,000.01 - $25,000 B. Minimum Bid Requirements One quotation is required. Quotations may be obtained by telephone or in written form via facsimile (FAX), delivery service, or internet and must be dated. Two or more written or faxed quotes are required and must be attached to requisition form. Quotations may be obtained by telephone or in written form via facsimile (FAX), delivery service, or internet and be dated. A. C. $25,000.01 - $50,000 C. Competitive sealed bids are required. D. >$50,000.01 D. Requires system office approval. See Business Office for assistance. Exceptions: Bookstore Resale Purchases The bookstore is an auxiliary enterprise which recognizes sales revenue at the point of sale. Goods are purchased wholesale for retail sales. The bookstore staff applies a fixed, industry standard markup to purchased goods for resale. Bookstore goods purchased for resale are exempt from Bidding Procedures A, B, and C above. Food Service Resale Purchases The food service is an auxiliary enterprise which generates sales revenues though financial aid disbursements and cashier sales for meal plans and food purchases. The food service staff negotiates and 55 sets food purchase prices at the beginning of the school year. Food purchased for resale is exempt from Bidding Procedures A, B, and C above. Purchases from Proprietary or Sole Source Vendors Purchases are exempt from Bidding Procedures A, B, and C above for vendors which are proprietary and/or specific to the area. Please document and fully explain orders that you claim to be "sole source." If evidence is found to the contrary, such orders will be disallowed. Interagency/Intra-agency Purchases Purchases may be made without following Bidding Procedures A, B, C above for interagency purchases of goods and services. These vendors may include, but are not limited to other MnSCU institutions and other state governmental departments such as the DNR. Minnesota State Contracts If an item is available on State Contract, Bidding Procedures A, B, and C are not required. The contract number must be written on the non-personnel requisition form. State Contracts are available on the internet at http://www.swmcb.org/EPPG/3_3.asp. Please contact the Business Office for our campus access code. Targeted Vendors Whenever practicable you are encouraged to use the services from a Certified Target Group (TG) or Economically Disadvantaged (ED) vendor if one provides the desired commodity. A list of targeted vendors is available at http://www.swmcb.org/EPPG/3_3.asp. Pre-Payments/Pull Warrants M.S. 16A.41. Subd. 1, prohibits the state from paying in advance. The state can only make prepayments for software or software maintenance contracts for software or software maintenance contracts for stateowned or leased computer equipment, sole source maintenance agreements, exhibit space, subscription fees for newspapers and magazines and the Library of Congress. In the case where a payment needs to accompany the registration or order form, complete a requisition form, attach registration or order documents, write PAYMENT TO ACCOMPANY ORDER on the requisition and forward to the Accounting Technician in the Business Office. On-Campus Meal/Refreshment Purchases When the costs for food service are mainly for non-state employees complete a requisition form and obtain a Purchase Order from Business Office. If the costs for foodservice are mainly for State employees a “Request for Approval to Incur Special Expenses” form is required in addition to the Requisition form. You can obtain this form from the Business Office. The form requires a list of the attendees and a copy of the agenda for the meeting. Reimbursement Materials purchased at a conference should be shown on your employee expense form for reimbursement with the original receipt attached. Receipt of Goods All goods received should be inspected and approved for by the recipient. The packing/shipping/receiving document needs to be signed and dated by the recipient that the goods were received and the packing slip forwarded to the Accounting Technician in the Business Office to match to the invoice. This document is proof that the goods were received. See next item below. 56 Payment of Obligations Incurred Invoice is received and date stamped in Business Office. If receiving document is on file, payment is processed. If receiving document is not on file the invoice will be sent to the recipient of the goods/services. The invoice is to be signed and dated verifying that the goods have been received or performed (date goods were received must be on invoice). Send the approved invoice back to the Business Office within two days for payment processing. State Treasury disbursements are issued through the Minnesota Department of Finance in Saint Paul. Local disbursements are made through the Business Office Equipment Inventory: Items over $2,000 ($500 if computer equipment) require a “Property of the State of Minnesota” sticker. The purchaser is responsible for tagging and monitoring such equipment. PURCHASE ORDER EXECUTION TIME On all purchases DO NOT PLACE ORDERS until you have received notice from the Business Office that an encumbrance/PO has been processed. If the vendor you are using is a NEW vendor please allow Business Office 3 extra days to process your order. Please provide the vendor name, phone number, address, federal and state identification numbers to help expedite our obtaining a vendor number from the Department of Finance. Emergencies occurring outside of regular business hours are considered only if they will prevent further costs, damage, or risk of injury. These require written documentation of the emergency. Please include your name, the date, time, description of incident and steps to remedy the situation. This documentation MUST be brought to the Business Office the NEXT business day accompanied by a requisition form and the written documentation of the emergency situation. If there are any discrepancies or concerns about your purchase the Business Office will contact you in a timely manner. Purchase Orders 1. When the NPR form is received by the account clerk, it will be stamped with a received date. 2. The requisition is reviewed, processed and a purchase order is printed and distributed. The original copy of the purchase order, along with the pink copy of the NPR form, is returned to the originator. A duplicate copy of the completed purchase order, along with white copy of the NPR form is given to the Accounting Technician for filing. A duplicate copy of the purchase order, along with the yellow copy of the NPR form is retained by the Account Clerk. The originator is responsible for ordering with the vendor and mailing any verification of the purchase necessary for the vendor’s records. 3. Total Processing time: A maximum of 3 days (7 days with new vendor). Access Fee Policy – Vermilion Community College Effective January 1, 2004, Vermilion Community College, in accordance with MnSCU Board Policy 5.11.1, Part 2, Subpart B, will charge all employees and students an access fee to generate revenue for parking lot construction, maintenance, enforcement and improvements pursuant to MS 136F.67. Students shall pay an amount that is equal to or less than the amount paid by the institution's employees for the same type of parking. Students are charged $1.00 per credit for the access fee, not to exceed $30.00 per annum or $15.00 per semester. All full-time employees will be charged $30.00 annually for access fees. Part time faculty will be charged $1.00 per credit up to $30.00, and non-faculty part time employees will be charged the employees FTE for the year times $30.00. Annually indicates a fiscal year (July 1-June 30). Unpaid 57 accounts will be turned over to the Minnesota College Enterprises (a Division of the Minnesota State Department of Revenue) for collection. Questions regarding this policy should be directed to the college's Dean of Finance and College Services. College Vehicle Regulations Authorized Drivers: Authorized drivers are state employees; contract employees if authorization to drive a state vehicle is specifically cited in their contract; students who have been granted permission by college administration; and drivers for certain disabled employees with the permission of that employee and the approval of his/her supervisor. All drivers must have in their possession a current and valid driver’s license and a copy of that license must be given to the scheduler of vehicles. Keys will not be issued until a copy of the driver’s license is on file. Procedures and Regulations: A passenger manifest needs to be completed for each vehicle so that the college is aware of who is traveling and where they are traveling to in case of an incident or if the college needs to reach one of the travelers in case of an emergency. Driver’s will be provided with a form to fill out prior to leaving campus. The form can be then dropped in the return key slot of the boiler building. A copy of the form can also be obtained from administration prior to the trip and turned in with the travel request form. Faculty may print their class list and use it as the manifest for class trips and note any students who do not travel. Effective immediately, Vehicle Use Agreements must be completed and on file for any faculty, staff or student worker traveling on college business. Anyone traveling on college business who is approved to use their personal vehicle must also provide administration with a copy of their current insurance coverage. Keys are to be picked up from the scheduler of vehicles. Unless directed otherwise, the keys are to be returned immediately after the scheduled use to the scheduler of vehicles or, if the college is locked, to the key slot below the administrative offices (across from the maintenance building). 1. Vehicles are not to be returned with less than half a tank of gas. The fuel card in the key chain is to be used to pay for gas, and any receipts are to be turned in with the keys. (Place in the pocket with the fuel card.) You will be asked for a driver number and odometer reading. The number to use is the vehicle number, found on the back of the vehicle as well as the card. 2. Record mileage, destination, and your department cost center legibly on the log in the vehicle. Please keep the clip-board and pencil in the vehicle. 3. ALL passengers and drivers must wear seat belts in state vehicles. 4. Only authorized persons are permitted to ride in state-owned vehicles. Authorized persons include state employees, other persons participating in state programs or functions, or individuals assisting disabled employees with prior approval as described above. Family members are not allowed in state vehicles. 5. Smoking is not allowed in state vehicles. 6. All doors on the vehicle are to be left locked and windows closed. Keys are not to be left in the vehicle. 58 7. The interior of the vehicle should be left clean. Although it should not be necessary, any trash should be removed from the vehicle prior to use, as well as after use. 8. Drive slowly and carefully on winter roads. Large vans require longer stopping distances. 9. All traffic rules and regulations must be followed. The driver is responsible for any tickets, which might accrue from a violation. 59 Student Services 60 Student Services Contact Jeff Nelson Phone: 218-235-2193 LEADERSHIP COUNCIL: Cindy Anderson Bina, Nadine Forsman, Kristi L’Allier, Doug Furnstahl, Dave Marshall, Annette Horvat and Jeff Nelson Website: http://www.vcc.edu Visit the VCC homepage for more information on any services. The Student Handbook is accessible through the homepage. Directory of Student Services VCC's Student Services and activities programs are designed to meet the unique needs of students and to provide an environment of growth. Following are the services provided. Academic Advising: Phone: 218-235-2119 or 235-2122 Office: CC108 CC108B Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Advising is an integral part of student success at VCC. All students have the opportunity to discuss educational, personal, and career interests and goals with counselors or advisors. Other advising services include assistance with course selection, transfer, study skills, goal setting, and motivation. Admissions: Phone: 218-235-2191 Office: PE130 Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Student admission to VCC is managed through the Enrollment Services Office. Applications for admission, on-campus housing, college tours, and other college information can be obtained from this department. Bookstore: Phone: 218-235-2112 Office: CC103 Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The VCC Bookstore stocks books required to complete coursework. New and used books, plus a wide variety of sundry items are available to meet student’s school and personal needs. Business Office: Phone: 218-235-2155 Office: CS105 Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuition and fees due to the VCC are paid at the Business Office. All financial aid awards are issued through this office. Career Center: Phone: 218-235-2122 Office: PE141 Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. 61 All VCC students are encouraged to use the services of the Career Center. A library of two- and fouryear college catalogs is available, as well as information on transfer requirements, academic planning, careers exploration, and job search techniques. A file of current job and internship opportunities is also available. Job internships will be posted jointly by financial aid and counseling. Computer Labs and Services: Phone: 218-235-2161 Pager: 1-800-418-9732 Office: CC101A, CC101B, CC107 Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Weekend hours posted. VCC provides state-of-the-art computer facilities, both for classroom instruction and student applications. The computer labs offer a broad spectrum of current software for student use as well as full Internet access and E-mail capabilities. Lab monitors are on duty to offer assistance, and extended hours allow students to complete class assignments on a timely basis. Counseling Services: Phone: 218-235-2175 or 235-2121 Office: CC108A CS106A Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Academic Year Only Counselors are available by appointment or on a drop-in basis to discuss academic, career, and personal concerns. Interest and personality tests are available and will be administered upon request. Information about transfer is also available through our counseling services Disability Services: Phone: 218-235-2177 Office: CC108 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. VCC is committed to meeting the special needs of students and staff with disabilities. VCC complies fully with the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which mandate equal access for physically and learning disabled persons in educational programs. Accommodations and support for students with disabilities are available through the Disability Services Offices and the Student Support Services Program. Services include assistance with application and registration procedures, career and academic counseling, auxiliary aids and adaptive equipment, classroom and testing accommodations, advocacy, accessibility information, and referrals to community agencies. It is the responsibility of the student to request services or accommodations and to provide documentation of the learning or physical disability. All information is kept confidential. Enrollment Services: Phone: 218-235- 2193 Office: PE130 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. College tours, application forms, and up-to-date information on college programs, requirements, and enrollment procedures are available through this office. Financial Aid: Phone: 218-235- 2159 or 235- 2153 Office: CS101 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Financial Aid Office assists full-time and part-time students in obtaining financial assistance in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment in order to ensure their ability to access education. 62 Food Service: Phone: 218- 235-2117 or 218-365-7266 Office: CC105 Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. A cafeteria service for snacks, breakfasts, and lunches is available to students, staff, and guests at all campuses. Vending machines for soft drinks and confectioneries are also readily available at the colleges. Residence Life: Phone: 218-235-2125 or 218-235- 2123 Office: CC204 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. VCC has on-campus housing that is available to all students. The housing facility provides a comfortable, private environment at a reasonable cost and is operated by trained staff under the direction of the Director of Residence life. Library: Phone: 218-235-2158 Office: CS102 Academic Year Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sunday, 4-8 p.m. The library is a vital part of the college instructional program. The librarian cooperates with classroom instructors to assure that VCC students develop skills in information literacy appropriate to their career and professional goals. An extensive collection of books, periodicals, audiovisual materials, and electronic resources are available for student, staff, and community use. The VCC collection is accessed from locations both on and off campus via the Internet allowing for identification and borrowing of materials from more than eighty libraries statewide. Academic Resource Center: Phone: 218-235-2110 Office: CC102 Hours are posted. VCC's Academic Resource Center offers many services to assist students with the challenges of college. Help is offered for improving study habits, test-taking skills, and time management. Trained peer tutors are available at no expense to students to assist with specific subject areas. Computers and learning software are available for self-paced instruction. Technology to assist students with disabilities can be accessed through the Academic Resource Center. Placement Services: Phone: 218-235-2122 Office: CC108 CC108B Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m . VCC has developed a placement service to aid occupational graduates in finding full-time positions. Registrants will be aided in obtaining employment upon graduation from technical programs and upon reactivation of their files in later job placements. Services offered include job search and resume writing assistance, mock interviews, distribution of available job opportunities and more. 63 Placement Testing (ASAP): Phone: 218-235-2119 Office: PE140 PE141 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. An assessment is administered to all students enrolling for more than seven credits, and it is used to determine placement in English, reading, and math courses. Upon request one-week prior to testing, accommodations can be provided to students with physical or learning disabilities. Records Office: Phone: 218-235-2154 Office: CS101E Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Records Office maintains student academic records and grade reports. Students may obtain transcripts, registration materials, and academic petition forms through this office. TRiO Student Support Services: Phone: 218-235-2176 Office: CS106 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The SSS program provides eligible students with a variety of services, including academic, career, and personal support services, free tutoring, support groups, and cultural activities. Participants in the SSS program are eligible to receive free credits by enrolling in a variety of courses and workshops. Program participants must meet eligibility criteria and must apply for acceptance into the program by contacting the SSS Project REACH Director. Tours: Phone: 218-235-2191 Office: PE130 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Other tours by appointment Visitors are always welcome at Vermilion Community College, and tours can be arranged by contacting the Enrollment Services Office. College visits are hosted by students and staff members who will acquaint you with the College, answer questions, and arrange for appointments with faculty and staff upon request. Veteran Affairs: Phone: 218-235-2154 Office: CS101E Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. -4:30 p.m. Information on veterans’ personal, financial, and educational questions may be obtained in the Records Office. 64 Information Technology Services 65 Technology Staff Contact the staff listed below for technical or software problems with your computer. See your supervisor if you have questions or issues regarding your technical needs or training. Harlan Tjader Office Pager Cell h.tjader@vcc.edu Information Technology Specialist (218) 235-2107 1-888-976-4138 343-4440 Information Technology Systems Acceptable Use Policy OBJECTIVE VCC recognizes that use of information technology is increasingly important to sharing college information, researching classroom topics and personal communication. VCC has created this policy to protect all college and community users of our information system. SCOPE VCC acceptable use policy applies to all college owned equipment (i.e., computer labs, housing computers, and library terminals), the college owned electronic connections and all users of this equipment. RESPONSIBILITIES VCC’s Student Handbook addresses the proper use of computing resources. Specifically, the Handbook prohibits the following behavior: Intentionally, recklessly or negligently placing any person under mental duress or causing any person to be in fear of physical danger through verbal abuse, harassment (including repeated phone calls), sexual harassment, hazing, intimidation, threats or other conduct which threatens or endangers that person’s emotional, mental or physical well-being. Unauthorized or fraudulent use of college facilities, telephone system, mail system or computer system or use of any of the above for any illegal act or any act prohibited by the Handbook. Deliberate destruction of, damage to, malicious use of, or abuse of any college property, wherever located, or the deliberate destruction of, damage to or malicious use of public or private property on college premises. Gambling for money or other things of value on campus or at college-sponsored activities except as permitted by law. Actions which unreasonably interfere, obstruct or prevent the regular and essential operations of the college or infringe upon the rights of others to freely participate in its programs and services. This may include, but is not limited to, intentionally and substantially interfering with the freedom of expression of others; participating in a campus demonstration which disrupts the normal operations of the college, intentionally obstructing or interfering with the freedom of pedestrian or vehicular movement on campus. Violation of published college policies, rules or regulations including, but not limited to smoking, solicitation, distribution of literature, sexual harassment, residence hall agreements, and amplification and loud speaker use, which can be found elsewhere in the student handbook. Privacy Although the college does not routinely monitor all messages, it does have the authority, at any time, to inspect the contents of any college equipment, files or mail on its system for any legitimate business, legal 66 or disciplinary purpose. Reasons for review include, but are not limited to: reasonable suspicion of a violation of a rule or law or college policy; investigation of system problems; litigation or anticipated litigation; or a need to perform work when an employee is not available. Employee users of the college's e-mail system must understand that most communications created, received or backed-up on the system are considered to be public documents and thus, may be subject to request for public disclosure. Employees should bear in mind that this construction may apply even to emails that contain, for example, personal remarks. Users must respect the integrity and security of the system. A user’s account and password are the keys to the e-mail network and users are advised that they are responsible for the security of their respective account and password. There are major risks when a user’s account and password are known to others. By law certain data is not available to the public, such as personnel or non-directory education data (“not public data”). If e-mail is used to transmit such data, it should be clearly labeled as not public. Designating messages in this manner may reduce the possibility that the recipient will disclose the data to unintended third parties, but users must take appropriate care to protect not public data and disclose it only to persons who are legally entitled to access. Users who illegally disclose not public data will be subject to discipline. Principals of Acceptable Use Access to and the responsible use of modern information resources are essential to the pursuit and achievement of excellence at VCC. The college encourages appropriate use of e-mail to enhance productivity through the efficient exchange of information for research. Use of these resources must be consistent with these goals. As responsible members of the VCC community, everyone is expected to act in accord with the following general principles based on the acceptable low as well as common sense, common decency and civility applied to the networked computing environment: 1. Messages sent as electronic mail should meet the same standards for distribution or display as if they were tangible documents or instruments. Identify yourself clearly and accurately in all electronic communications. Concealing or misrepresenting your name or affiliation to dissociate yourself from responsibility for your actions is never appropriate. Alteration of the course of electronic mail, message or posting is unethical and may be grounds for discipline. One test of appropriateness would be to never “say” anything via e-mail that you would not be willing to say directly to a person; 2. Be sensitive to the inherent limitation of shared network resources. No computer security system can absolutely prevent a determined person from accessing stored information, and VCC cannot guarantee the privacy or confidentiality of electronic documents; 3. Respect the rights of others. Do not send abusive, threatening, or harassing materials. Civil discourse is at the heart of a college community free of intimidation and harassment and is based upon a respect for individuals as well as a desire to learn from others. While debate on controversial issues is inevitable and essential, you may not use the college's electronic communication system in a manner that violates the college's policies or applicable laws against discrimination or harassment including policy and laws against sexual harassment. The same standards or conduct expected of students, faculty and staff regarding the use of telephones, libraries and other institutional resources apply to the use of e-mail. You will be held no less accountable for your actions in situations involving e-mail than you would be in dealing with other media; 4. It is unacceptable to use the college's system to engage in wasteful and disruptive practices, such as creating or sending “chain letters,” “broadcast” messages or unwanted material, “flaming” or overloading a system. This effort is consistent with existing practices governing other forms of communication on campus including telephone calls, bulletin board postings, the mass distribution of flyers and the use of intra-campus mail services; 5. In accordance with the Minnesota Department of Employee Relations Administrative Procedure No. 32, and Minnesota Statute Section 43A, 38, Subd. 4, political transmissions are prohibited. This would 67 include transmissions which advocate the election of particular candidates for public office at the federal, state or local level. This also prohibits sending of messages which contain religious positions or activities. Also banned are those messages that advocate support of or opposition to any particular referendum proposal that will be decided by the voters during a general or special election affecting the public at large. Those using e-mail for legitimate educational purposes should be careful to abide by the statute cited above. Other examples of inappropriate personal use of the system include, but are not limited to, wagering, fund-raising for any purpose unless college sanctioned, or promotion of religious positions or activities; 6. E-mail and other network resources may not be used for commercial purposes or for personal financial gain. To do so would be a violation of Minnesota state law. This does not preclude the use of email to assist in the investigation and support of vendors’ products, such as the discussion of a product’s relative advantages and disadvantages by users of the product, the distribution of information or technical support material by request or vendor responses to questions about their products, al long as the responses are not in the nature of a solicitation; 7. You are expected to abide by the security restrictions on all systems and information to which you have access. Activities that interfere with or disrupt network users, equipment or services, including the intentional distribution of viruses or seeking unauthorized access to machines on the network, are prohibited. Conduct which involves the use of information resources to violate a college policy or regulation or state or federal law, or to violate another’s rights, is a serious abuse subject to limitation of your privileges and appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action. This college is not responsible for transmissions which are libelous or defamatory, but will appropriately investigate and address these unwanted transmissions with the message sender. If unsolicited or unwanted Internet transmissions are received, or if problems or issues arise regarding VCC e-mail, you should contact the appropriate systems administrator. E-mail managers and network system administrators should not monitor or access the contents of electronic files except as noted in this policy. Complaints by any user receiving electronic transmissions through any e-mail server may be submitted to the Computer Support Services leadworker The Affirmative Action Office will be notified of complaints regarding the transmission of discriminatory material. The Computer Support Services leadworker will work with Campus Security and/or other appropriate offices to investigate the complaint to make a determination of its validity. In the case of an employee investigation, if a violation did occur, the Campus Security Director shall inform the employee’s immediate supervisor, in consultation with other college offices, shall impose proper action in a form and process consistent with public employee laws and collective bargaining agreements. These policies are subject to change. 68 Additional Services 69 Mail: Incoming and Outgoing The Provost's Office is responsible for sorting and distributing incoming mail and processing outgoing mail. Keys The Facilities and Equipment Manager is responsible for key issuance, security, and records. Keys to assigned desks and files are assigned to users. In most cases, individual door keys are assigned based on obvious or demonstrated need for access. Keys are checked out and attested to by each employee at the beginning of the service period. The transaction is noted on the Key Record. Keys must be returned during interruptions in employee service. No college employee is authorized to furnish or lend a key to a non-employee or student without the approval of the Provost. Maintenance Staff Maintenance staff can be contacted at the following numbers: Telephone: Cell phone: 235-2179 (Maintenance Office) 343-1711 (Facilities and Equipment Manager) 343-1870 (General Maintenance) 70 Continuing Education Division 71 CONTACTS: Gloria Bowen Director of Custom Training Assistant Director of Elderhostel 218-235-2163 g.bowen@vcc.edu Chris Hegenbarth Director of Elderhostel 218-235-2164 c.hegenbarth@vcc.edu Web Page: www.vcc.edu (Click on Continuing Education) We are located near the library in CS 104. Mission Statement: The Continuing Education Division at Vermilion Community College offers educational opportunities and training to individuals and groups in our community and beyond. This division fulfills individual, community, and business requests for instruction, and promotes life-long learning opportunities. Academically sound instruction is delivered on our campus, at requested locations, and through distance learning formats. Custom Training: The Custom Training Department supports business and industry through training contracts. To meet the diverse training needs of businesses, customized workshops and seminars are arranged at times convenient to the client on campus or at the work site. Course topics may range from job skill training and successful management styles, to CPR training for the workplace. A variety of certification, licensure, and continuing education units (CEUs) for professionals are also available through open enrollment courses. Intense, interactive and to the point, our delivery methods are designed to get information to busy people efficiently and effectively. Training Facilities: In addition to the usual classroom, lecture hall, theater, and laboratory space available at colleges, Vermilion is also fortunate to have the Outdoor Learning Center. Complete with a waterfront, classroom, dining room, and overnight lodging, this facility is perfect for courses and trainings with an outdoor focus. A drinking water treatment training facility, fondly known as the SWAMP (Safe Water for All Minnesota People) is available for specialized drinking water operator training. Vermilion Institutes: A variety of Vermilion Institutes are offered year-round. These programs include job related training such as the Forest Protection Officer Training, outdoor educational opportunities for high school teachers, and athletic camps for high school students seeking to improve their skills in a particular sport. Elderhostel: Elderhostel programs are short-term academic sessions hosted by educational institutions around the world. Combining the best traditions in education and hosteling, Elderhostel programs are educational adventures for older adults (55 years of age or older). Vermilion hosts around 20 Elderhostel programs each year, and each includes food, lodging, educational sessions, and field trips. Programs often cover topics of the ecology of wolves, birds, wildlife, wildflowers, or the northern forest. Or, participants can chose a program that has a more active focus, such as dogsledding, cross-country skiing, hiking, or canoeing. Regional issues are also important areas of study and programs offered can include the history of iron ore mining, Ojibwe heritage, Voyageur history, shipwrecks on Lake Superior, and visits to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. In cooperation with the International Wolf Center, our Intergenerational Wolf Discovery Elderhostel program is offered several times during the summer. 72 New Employee Orientation/Mentors 73 New Employee Orientation and Mentors A mentor is a peer employee who will help in the orientation of a new employee and may assist in the training of the new employee. A mentor is either assigned by the supervisor or the supervisor will ask for a volunteer among a group of peers. The specific duties of the mentor are outlined in the mentor’s checklist following this document. The mentor is responsible for the completion of the duties on the mentor’s checklist as well as helping train the new employee if requested to do so by the supervisor. The mentor will also arrange for a campus tour with the new employee. Mentors will be responsible for submitting their completed checklist within two weeks of the employee’s starting date. The ultimate responsibility for the completion of a new employee’s orientation rests with the supervisor, who may or not be the mentor. Training in the new position may require a longer period of time than the orientation process takes. The supervisor should be aware of any problems or conflicts emerging during the orientation period. This schedule will normally serve to orient the new employee. Prior to first day of work PREPARE FOR NEW EMPLOYEE (i.e. Office space prepared, phones and computers made available.) First day of work Welcome and Introduction Day 2 through Day 10 (includes the tour and introductions to college staff) Orientation and Training – ongoing (supervisor and mentor) Day 10 Submit checklist to Human Resources Office (Mentor’s checklist) After 3 months Formal Orientation Evaluation Employee fills this out and submits to Human Resources 74 MENTOR'S CHECKLIST NEW EMPLOYEE ORIENTATION VERMILION COMMUNITY COLLEGE Employee’s Name_________________________ Date of Hire: _______________________ Job Title __________________________________________________________________ FIRST DAY: _____ Explain that orientation for new employees is a process that should be ongoing through the first months of employment and that questions are very welcome. Discuss the orientation timelines. _______ Make introductions in the department that the new employee is joining, as well as introductions in the administrative offices and other departments as you do an informal tour of the buildings. _______ Visit the Human Resources Office to meet the staff and process the necessary paperwork to be put on payroll, including explanation about reporting time (if appropriate). Benefits will be discussed and information disseminated at this meeting. _______ Explain mailing procedures, where mail boxes are located, how one gets office supplies, use of the college library and other facilities (for example, weight room or gym) where restrooms and drinking fountains are located, and where parking is allowed. _______ If applicable, discuss how the employee accesses clerical support. _______ Answer questions the employee has or make notes to get the answers. _______ Supervisor should discuss office rules and procedures regarding lunch or other breaks, hours of work, and procedures that are specific to the department with the new employee. _______ Obtain keys from the administration office as appropriate for offices or classrooms. FIRST TWO WEEKS: _______ Continue with introductions and orientation to the various departments of the college, including the Bookstore, Maintenance, Student Services, Business Office, Gymnasium area, and Library. _______ Introduction to technology staff, with information on how to access assistance. _______ NEW FACULTY MEMBERS: Should become acquainted with services for students as well as academic issues. Talk with Bookstore staff regarding procedure for ordering textbooks and obtaining office supplies. _______ NEW FACULTY MEMBERS: Meet with instructional administrator regarding assignment, evaluations, duty day activities, and other pertinent issues. 75 _______ Explanation of campus committees and process for participating on any of those committees. NEW EMPLOYEE QUESTIONNAIRE EMPLOYEE ORIENTATION - Vermilion Community College Employee’s Name ___________________________________________________ Date of Hire _______________Job Title _________________________________ The New Employee Orientation Evaluation Questionnaire is designed to measure the employee’s comprehension in such areas as performance standards, job scope, conditions of employment, and other pertinent job-related information. It also asks for the employee’s suggestions for improving job training and other aspects of the overall orientation process that they may feel are inadequate. PLEASE COMPLETE THIS FORM AND RETURN IT TO THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE AFTER THREE MONTHS OF EMPLOYMENT. FEEDBACK WILL BE NOTED AND DISSEMINATED TO SUPERVISORS AND MENTORS AS APPROPRIATE. 1. The purpose of my position is ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ 2. The most important part of my job is ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ 3. I report to _____________________________who reports to ________________________________. 4. My performance will be measured by ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ 5. Things I’d like to know more about ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________ 6. Information about my employment condition, benefits, payroll, and personnel issues was: Very thorough _______Satisfactory _______ Adequate ________ Poor ________ Comments: ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ 7. How would you rate your supervisor’s contribution to your orientation? Good ________ Fair ________ Poor ________ 76 Explain _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ 8. How would you rate your mentor’s contributions to your orientation? Good ________ Fair ________ Poor ________ Explain _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ 9. Which section of the orientation program do you feel is most important for meeting the needs of your job? (check one) ______ College History ______ Meetings with supervisor ______ Discussion with human resources on benefits & employment conditions ______ Association with mentor ______ Campus tour 10. Having completed the orientation process, do you think it prepared you to: Handle problem situations Yes ____ Understand your supervisor’s problems Yes ____ Understand the parameters of your position Yes ____ Locate sources of information with which to Yes ____ accomplish your tasks Know your co-workers and be familiar with Yes ____ what they do Understand the conditions of your employment Yes ____ 11. No No No No _____ _____ _____ _____ No _____ No _____ Is there a particular area in which you still feel unsure of yourself or would like further orientation or training? (use back for more space, if necessary) _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ 77 Organizational Chart 78 President Northeast Higher Education District Provost Vermilion Community College College Foundation Board Executive Director College Advisory Board Human Resources Director of Facilities & Auxiliaries Business Manager Business Office Auxiliary Enterprises Bookstore Food Service Housing Residential Life Facilities Student Life Faculty Counseling Instructional Support Concurrent Enrollment PSEO Athletics Athletics Continuing Education Custom Training Vermilion Institutes Elderhostel Information Technology Services Director of Enrollment and Student Services Enrollment Management Advising Financial Aid Registration Student Assessment Placement Grant Funded Student Services Programs Marketing/Public Relations Academic Resource Center