Student and Campus Policies

Visitors on Campus

Visitors on campus are expected to comply with the rules and policies of the College, including traffic and parking regulations. No visitors, including children, are permitted in classrooms, science labs, or technical labs during regular class hours.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Baton Rouge Community College (the “College” or “BRCC”) was established, in part, to promote the exchange of knowledge in an environment that encourages reasoned discourse, intellectual honesty, and respect for the rights of all persons. The College Community is defined as students, administrators, faculty, and other College employees. Attendance at a public community college is not compulsory; consequently, individuals entering the College Community voluntarily assume all obligations of performance and behavior reasonably expected by the College. The College is a “special purpose” institution and, as such, can set forth higher expectations than those of the community in general. By accepting membership in this community, individuals neither surrender their rights nor escape their responsibilities as citizens but acquire rights in, and responsibilities to, the College Community.

BRCC considers all students enrolled in the College as adult students responsible and accountable for their own behavior. Enrollment in the College carries with it the requirement that all students conduct themselves as responsible members of the campus community and maintain the highest degree of integrity and honesty. BRCC expects students to obey local, state, and federal laws and conduct themselves in accordance with the College’s standards of conduct as defined in the BRCC Student Code of Conduct. This document is intended to provide a framework for an orderly and stable College community and to protect the due process rights of students and other members of the campus community.

Expectations of Students
Students are expected to:

1. Be accountable for information contained in the College Catalog, Student Handbook, the Student Code of Conduct, and any other published regulations relating to student responsibilities.
2. Be respectful of the rights of others.
3. Comply with the verbal and written directions of College officials and public authorities.
4. Respect and comply with all the laws and rights of good citizenship.
5. Respect the freedom to teach and the freedom to learn.
6. Adhere to the student dress code in regard to safety codes and standards in all academic settings including, science and technical labs.
7. Refrain from using the college address as a home or mailing address. Personal telephone and mail service are not available to students.
8. The Office of Public Safety should be contacted for on-campus emergencies by dialing (225) 216-8888 (6-8888 from a campus line). Students can utilize the red emergency phones to alert appropriate college personnel for emergency purposes. They are located in strategic areas around campus. Family members that need to contact students to inform them of critical illness or the death of a family member should call the BRCC main phone line, (225) 216-8000 for assistance.
9. Adhere to the no personal pets or animals on campus. Assistance animals are allowed in the academic classroom with prior approval. Animals used for teaching purposes for the Veterinary Technology program are exceptions to the campus policy and are to be supervised by Veterinary Technology staff.
10. Keep all electronic devices turned off and placed securely in belongings, along with any other personal materials before and during classes.

Student Rights
BRCC students have the following rights:

1. The right to be heard in matters that affect their rights and responsibilities.
2. The right to expect a quality education.
3. The right to develop their potential to the best of their ability.
4. The right to examine and discuss issues of importance, legally support popular/unpopular causes in an orderly manner, and recommend improvements in policies, regulations, and procedures affecting the welfare of students. It is critical that students understand they do not have the right to disrupt College operations or interfere with the rights of others. Students are encouraged to exercise this right through appropriate channels provided by the SGA and campus officials. To obtain a permit for holding a peaceful demonstration, a student (or group of students) must first complete and submit an Event Request Form to the Office of Student Life at least 72 hours prior to the event. The location must be approved by the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development or the Dean of Students.
5. The right to a fair hearing and appeal when disciplinary action is applied to them as an individual or a member of a group.
6. The right to “freedom of the press” in student publications and communications. Individual students and student clubs/organizations have the right to publish, distribute, and broadcast items to the College community, provided that the materials are identified with the name of the student and/or club or organization. All publications/broadcasts should adhere to the canons of responsible journalism, including avoidance of defamation, indecency/obscenity, undocumented allegations, plagiarism, and harassment. All publications must be approved by the Office of Student Life and the Office of the Dean of Students prior to distribution.
7. The right to form and participate in student clubs/organizations that provide educational and social enrichment. Student clubs/organizations duly registered with the Office of Student Life are allowed to meet in rooms and spaces located on the BRCC campus, provided that reservations are made prior to each meeting and the meeting proceeds in accordance with established rules and regulations. Students, clubs/organizations, or student groups may not make room/space reservations at BRCC in their names for use by outside groups/organizations.
8. Student clubs/organizations registered with the Office of Student Life have the right to invite a speaker to their meeting at the College. If there is clear evidence that the event could disrupt the orderly operation of the College, the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development has the right to cancel a speaker’s invitation. The sponsoring organization will be notified of any such cancellation at the earliest possible time.
9. The right to confidentiality with regard to their student academic records, as subject to existing law. Official records kept at BRCC do not indicate political affiliations, activities, or beliefs and are not available to unauthorized persons within or outside the institution without the express written, legal consent of the student involved.
10. The right to due process when accused of any violation(s) of the regulations of the BRCC Student Code of Conduct. Due process is based on Student Life Policies and administrative procedures. For violations resulting in suspension/expulsion, students have the right to:
    1. a notice, in writing, of any alleged violation of community standards.
    2. accept responsibility for the alleged violation(s), waive an appeal, and accept the College’s action(s) by way of an informal, Administrative Hearing to be conducted by the dean of students or designee.
    3. accept responsibility for the alleged violation(s) and request a formal hearing.
    4. deny responsibility for the alleged violation(s) occurred and request a formal hearing.
    5. a fair hearing before an impartial committee.
    6. appear in person, or not appear at an appeal with the assurance that failure to do so is not an admission of responsibility.
    7. select an advisor who will attend the appeal along with the student.
    8. call witnesses and present evidence and/or supporting documentation.
    9. receive a list of all participants involved in the case at the request of the student or students’ advisor.
    10. participate in the adjudication process by counter-questioning participants involved in the adjudication process.
    11. request a copy of any records or tape recordings used during the course of a formal hearing.
    12. appeal to the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development; and if no resolution occurs, directly to the Chancellor of the College.
    13. appeal to the Louisiana Community and Technical College System office in accordance with LCTCS Policy #2.004.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) guarantees students the following rights in respect to personal educational records:

• The right to request access to personal educational records for inspection and review within 45 days after the date that the College receives the request. A student should submit a written request to the Registrar identifying the records they wish to review. The Registrar arranges for the student to inspect the records and notifies them of a time and place to review them. If student records are maintained by a person other than the Registrar, the student is advised which college official the student should contact.
• The right to request that one’s educational record be amended if a student believes that their records are inaccurate. The student should submit a written request to the college official responsible for maintaining student records, clearly identifying the part of their record that needs to be modified and stating the reasons why. If the College does not amend the record as requested, the College is obligated to notify the student of the decision and advise the student of their right to a hearing. Information regarding hearing procedures is provided when the student is notified of a hearing.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personal information contained in educational records, unless FERPA authorizes a disclosure without consent. FERPA permits disclosure of information to school officials who have legitimate educational interests. A school official, according to FERPA, is defined as

1. a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or research position, or a support staff member (including personnel in the Office of Public Safety);
2. a person or company with whom the College is contracted (an attorney, an auditor, or a collection agent);
3. a person serving on the Louisiana Board of Regents;
4. a student serving on a committee in an official capacity such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or assisting a school official in performing his/her official duties.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if he/she needs to review an educational record in order to perform his/ her professional responsibilities.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Directory Information
BRCC only distributes student information as defined in the FERPA guidelines. The following information can be legitimately used in the BRCC Directory:

• Student Name
• Local Address/Phone
• Home Address/Phone
• BRCC E-mail Address
• Date & Place of Birth
• Degrees and Awards/Honors Received and Dates
• Dates of Attendance (Current and Past)
• Full or Part-Time Enrollment Status
• Most Recently Attended Educational Institute
• Major Field of Student/Classification

A student may prevent directory information from being disclosed by completing the FERPA Release and Confidentiality Request in LoLA underneath Academic Links.

Questions regarding FERPA should be referred to the Registrar at brccregistrar@mybrcc.edu.

Due Process

Baton Rouge Community College officials have the authority to promulgate and implement rules, policies, and procedures. College officials also have the responsibility to ensure that the rules, policies, and procedures are reasonably related to fair and just purposes and are administered in an impartial and unbiased manner. Due process provides the conduit through which the liberty and property rights of students are protected. As a result, many College policies that impact the student’s right to remain enrolled in the College or receive other benefits associated with attendance at the College have provisions for processes of appeals. Due process provisions do not apply to institutional decisions resulting in suspension or expulsion due to poor academic performance.

It is important for students to know their rights and responsibilities especially as it relates to conduct and disciplinary circumstances. Know your Student Code of Conduct and Student Grievance Procedures both available on the BRCC website at www.mybrcc.edu.

Student Grievance Procedure

The purpose of the Student Grievance Procedure is to ensure that student concerns are promptly addressed and resolutions reached in a fair and just manner. It is essential that each student be given adequate opportunity to bring complaints and problems to the attention of the College with the assurance that each will be heard and due process afforded the student. The College seeks to work with the student to understand and address concerns before resorting to formal grievance procedures.

PROCEDURE

1. Definitions

1.1 A Grievance is a complaint by a Baton Rouge Community College student involving an alleged misapplication or violation of any College policy or procedure that adversely impacts the student, or any other dispute within the College that directly impacts the student in an adverse manner.
1.2 A Grievance may include, but is not limited to, complaints alleging

(1.2.1) mistreatment by a College employee,
(1.2.2) errors in the assessment of fees or other financial obligations,
(1.2.3) registration errors, and/or
(1.2.4) loss of financial aid eligibility not including Satisfactory Academic Progress as defined in section 2 below.

1.3 A Grievance shall not include complaints or disputes on issues described in section 2 below.
1.4 A Student is an individual who is matriculated or otherwise enrolled to attend class full or part-time at Baton Rouge Community College.

2. Issues and Disputes Not Covered in this Policy

2.1 Requests to review and challenge contents of student records will be processed according to Policy 5-571 FERPA.
2.2 Grievances involving harassment or discrimination will be processed according to Policy 6-602 Title IX and Sexual Misconduct.
2.3 Issues relating to financial aid eligibility will be processed according to Policies 5-551 Financial Aid Policy, 5-552 Financial Aid Code of Conduct, and 5-553 Satisfactory Academic Progress.
2.4 Appeals of disciplinary actions will be processed according to Policy 5-541 Student Code of Conduct.
2.5 Appeals or petition regarding instructional or academic issues will be processed according to Policy 1.4340 Academic Appeals.
2.6 Complaints that, on their face, are not subject to possible resolution in a student grievance context. (An example would be a student complaint where the student’s requested relief is prohibited by state or federal law).

3. Informal Resolution

3.1 Before initiating the grievance process, the student is encouraged to make every effort to resolve the problem informally with the person(s) alleged to have caused the grievance
3.2 Alternatively or additionally, the student may present the informal grievance in writing to the person(s) alleged to have caused the grievance. This attempt to resolve the grievance informally should be started as soon as the student first becomes aware of the act or condition that is the basis of the grievance.
3.3 The student may present the informal grievance to the direct supervisor of the person alleged to have caused the grievance. Students uncertain about how to identify this person or determining how to proceed may consult the Office of the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development who shall identify the appropriate person.

4. Formal Resolution:
   ​Filing a formal grievance is a serious matter and should be done thoughtfully following the process as outlined below.

4.1 If the student is unable to reach an informal resolution, they may present the grievance in writing to the Office of the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development. The Vice Chancellor will assign resolution of the grievance to the appropriate next level supervisor. The next level supervisor will conduct an investigation as warranted to resolve any factual disputes.
4.2 The supervisor shall conduct a meeting in order for the student to present any information relevant to their grievance. The student will be allowed to have an advisor of their choice present in meetings throughout the grievance process. Advisors are not permitted to present the case or otherwise participate in the discussion but may advise the student. Both the College and the student may seek legal advice at their own expense.
4.3 The supervisor’s disposition of the grievance shall be reported to the student and the appropriate Vice Chancellor in writing within fifteen (15) business days from the date the written grievance was received and shall inform the student of the decision including the right to appeal and to whom the appeal shall be made.
4.4 If the disposition extends beyond the fifteen (15) business days the supervisor shall inform the student of the delay and the expected response date.

5. Grievance Appeal Procedure

5.1 In all cases, the appropriate Vice Chancellor will be responsible for addressing appeals by a student who is not satisfied with the responses after all reviews by supervisors have been completed.
5.2 To request an appeal, the student must present an appeal statement in writing, together with all supervisors’ written responses to the grievance, to the Vice Chancellor within five (5) business days of receipt of the final review and determination.
5.3 The Vice Chancellor will review all documentation. A written decision shall be made within ten business days after reviewing the case.
5.4 A final appeal at the College level may be made to the College Chancellor. To request review of the appeal, the student must present an appeal statement in writing, together with all Vice Chancellor’s and supervisors’ written responses to the grievance, to the Chancellor within five (5) business days of receipt of the final review and determination by the Vice Chancellor.
5.5 The Chancellor will review all documentation. A written decision shall be made within ten (10) business days after reviewing the case. The decision of the Chancellor shall constitute final College action.
5.6 Any further appeal of a decision regarding the student grievance must be made to the Louisiana Community and Technical College System office in accordance with LCTCS Policy # 2.004.

Student Code of Conduct

The Student Code of Conduct (the Code) is intended to provide the framework for an orderly and stable environment. The Code obligates students to, both within the classroom and outside it, respect the rights and privileges and property of other members of the College community and visitors to the campus. Students are expected to refrain from actions which would interfere with College functions or endanger the health, welfare or safety of other persons, practice high standards of academic and professional honesty and integrity and comply with the rules and regulations of the College and its departments.

In general, the Code sets forth duties owed by students to each other and to the College. It also sets forth administrative procedures whereby students accused of violating College rules are afforded due process and, if the preponderance of evidence warrants, receive fir discipline. Finally, this Code specifies procedures by which a student may exercise the appeals process for certain decisions. The Student Code of Conduct and Adjudication Processes is available on the College website.

Prohibited Conduct
Baton Rouge Community College expects its students to be accountable for their conduct and to represent the College in a positive, responsible manner. The Code exists to provide parameters for students and their behavior as they represent the College during the entirety of their BRCC experience. A student forfeits the right to remain enrolled if he/she fails to abide by these rules.

Conduct that violates student rights and freedoms and is subject to disciplinary action. This list is not meant to be comprehensive: additional rules or regulations can be enacted during the year as set forth by the established procedures of the College.

Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Academic Misconduct:

Plagiarism, cheating, academic dishonesty, fabrication, misuse of academic resources, misrepresentation, violation of class rules, complicity, software fraud, multiple submission of work, unsanctioned collaboration, or other forms of dishonesty in College-related affairs. Students who engage in any type of academic dishonesty are subject to both academic consequences as determined by the instructor and to disciplinary action as outlined in the Code.

Disruptive Behavior:

Engaging in any disruptive behavior that negatively affects or impedes teaching or learning (regardless of mode of delivery or class setting) or disrupts the general operation of the College. This includes, but is not limited to, disorderly, lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct, expressions, or acts which interfere with or adversely affect the normal functioning of the College, or which injures or endangers the welfare of any member of the College community or visitor on College-owned/controlled property or at College-approved/supervised functions. Any extreme, unusual, distracting, or disturbing appearance which disrupts the learning environment.

Deceptive Acts:

Engaging in deceptive acts, including, but not limited to, forgery, falsification, alteration, fabrication, or misuse of College forms, misrepresentation, non-disclosure, misuse of College documents, forms, records, identification cards and/or educational materials documents that are submitted to the College for official/unofficial purposes; Theft of services/property from the College, a member of the College community, or of a campus visitor, to include the possession, sale, or attempted sales of said services/property.

Submitting false, forged, or fraudulent documents, forms, reports, transcripts, records, certificates, tests, identification, legal, and/or written statements; making false statements to a College official; and/or misrepresenting eligibility, qualification, status, achievement, and/or standing to or within the College.

Defrauding, deceiving, coercing, or misleading an instructor into assigning other than an honest grade.

The unauthorized use of College property/services.

Conduct that is Detrimental to College or Campus Safety:

Obstruction, disruption, or unauthorized interruption of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary procedures, or other College activities (including its public service function) or of other authorized activities on College premises.

Disobeying any law or safety personnel on the College campus.

The College bans the possession and prohibits the use of hover boards (also known as self-balancing scooters or smart boards), skateboards and unmanned aircraft system (drones) on College campus grounds.

Physical & Non-Physical Abuse

Any form of verbal or physical abuse of any member or visitor of the College community, or conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any such person.

Participation in hazing, bullying, acts which are degrading or injurious, or acts in which another is held against his or her will. Hazing refers to an act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or acts to be considered as any abusive rights for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition of membership in a group/organization. Bullying is defined as the use of force or coercion to abuse or intimidate others.

Hate Crime: Any criminal offense that manifests evidence that the victim was intentionally selected because of the perpetrator’s bias against the victim based on the victim’s race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ethnicity, national origin, or disability.

Harassment and/or Discrimination:

Participation in hazing, bullying, acts which are degrading or injurious, or acts in which another is held against his or her will. Hazing refers to an act that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or acts to be considered as any abusive rights for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition of membership in a group/organization. Bullying is defined as the use of force or coercion to abuse or intimidate others.

Sexual Misconduct:

Sexual harassment, defined as unwelcomed sexual encouragement, requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal/physical conduct of sexual temperament when:

1. submission to such conduct is made, whether explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of employment or academic evaluation;
2. submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions or academic evaluations affecting an individual; and/or
3. such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with one’s work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working/learning environment.
4. Some sexual and/or relationships, misconduct may constitute further criminal violations of college policy.

Stalking, which is defined as repeatedly contacting another person without a legitimate purpose when:

1. the contacting person knows or should know that the contact is unwanted by the other person.
   binit is reasonable for the other person in that situation to have been alarmed or coerced by the contact. (As used in this subsection, “contacting” includes, but is not limited to, coming into the visual or physical presence of the other person, following another person, and sending written communication of any form to the other person, either by themselves or through a third party.)

Any verbal or physical conduct by an individual based on another individual’s age, ability, national origin, race, marital status, religion, sex, or sexual orientation that interferes with or prevents the person from conducting his or her customary or usual affairs, puts the person in reasonable fear of his or her safety, or causes the person to suffer actual physical injury.

Conduct less than a physical attack or interference with a person, such as hazing or threatening action, which is intended to subject another person to offensive physical contact, physical injury, or property damage, such as making threatening phone calls, sending, or posting (electronically or otherwise) threatening letters, or the vandalism or misappropriation of a person’s property.

Sexual assault, which includes, but is not limited to:

1. Rape
2. Sexual misconduct
3. Unwanted sexual contact of any kind or threat of such contact. Sexual contact shall be considered unwelcomed or without consent if no clear consent is freely given; if such contact is inflicted through force, threat of force, or coercion; or if inflicted upon a person who is unconscious or otherwise lacks the physical or mental capacity to consent. If sexual contact is inflicted on someone who is intoxicated or impaired in the exercise of their judgment by alcohol or drugs, it will be considered without consent.

Public indecency, defined as exposing one’s genitals while in a public place or a place visible from a public place on College-owned or College-controlled property.

Weapons:

Firearms, explosives, fireworks, hover boards or other electrical devices or weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited on or near the college campus or at college-sponsored events.

Tobacco/Drugs/Alcohol:

The manufacture, distribution, sale, possession, or use of alcoholic beverages, marijuana, controlled substances, or dangerous drugs, as well as being under the influence of narcotics or drugs (except as required for verifiable medical reasons permitted by law and use poses no danger to the college community) while on College property or near campus or at college-sponsored, approved, or supervised activities.

The use of tobacco products is prohibited on any property leased or controlled by BRCC (Facilities Policy 9.1011, Tobacco (Smoke) Free Campus). The Louisiana Community and Technical College (LCTCS) Board of Supervisors, in response to Act 211 (an update to the Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act of 2007) signed into Louisiana law on June 10, 2013, created the Smoke-Free Environment Policy (Policy #6.024), which required all LCTCS campuses to adopt smoke-free campus policies. The BRCC policy is available on the College’s website.

The use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited.

Smoking is defined as the lighting, burning or use of tobacco or any other material in any type of smoking device or equipment.

Smoking or inhaling any substance, by any method, including but not limited to tobacco products, e-cigarettes, and aromatic smoking products, such as clove cigarettes, herbal cigarettes, etc., and using/consuming any type of tobacco products, including but not limited to chewing tobacco and snuff, is prohibited inside all college-owned and managed facilities including parking garages, covered walkways, temporary enclosed structures, trailers and tents as well as structures placed on college property by contractors and vendors.

Tobacco includes but is not limited to smoking tobacco, chew, snuff/snus, and dipping tobacco. This policy also prohibits the use of lit or unlit cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, clove cigarettes, cigars, pipes, hookahs, bidis, blunts, cigarillos, smokeless tobacco or any item that stimulates any of the previously mentioned products.

Appropriate Dress Attire:

Students are expected to dress in a manner representative of a higher education institution.

Integrity in appearance and personal cleanliness are most important.

Dress or personal hygiene that fails to meet the established safety or health standards of specific classes or activities offered by the College may be sanctioned and/or reprimanded.

Leaving Children Unattended:

Leaving children unattended or unsupervised in campus buildings or on campus grounds unless enrolled or participating in authorized campus activities is prohibited. The College assumes no responsibility for the supervision of children.

Violation of Laws, Directives, and Signage:

Violation, or alleged violation, of any federal or state law, city or local ordinance, or College security when such violation interferes with or is detrimental to the mission of the College, or interferes with other students’ legitimate educational activities and interests.

Conviction of a felony or misdemeanor under circumstances where it is reasonable to conclude that the presence of the person at the College would constitute a danger to health, personal safety, or property; or where the offense occurred on College-owned or College-controlled property or at College-sponsored or College-supervised activities.

Gambling:

Gambling while on campus, College-owned or College-controlled property is prohibited.

Unauthorized Entry and/or Unauthorized Possession:

Unauthorized possession or use of keys to College facilities, including buildings, offices, desks, files, or equipment.

Violation of properly constituted rules and regulations governing the use of motor vehicles on College owned or controlled property, including theft, sale, possession, and/or display of a lost, stolen, or unauthorized parking decal.

Behavior that constitutes vandalism, misuse, or destruction to property that the College owns, controls, or uses.

Unauthorized entry into or damage to any College facility.

Unacceptable Use of College Equipment, Network, or System:

Unauthorized use of computer account(s), computer data files and/or computer facilities.

The viewing or public display of pornography on College property; at College-sponsored, approved, or supervised activities; or while using BRCC equipment on or off-campus.

Any unlawful distribution of copyrighted material, including peer-to-peer file sharing.

Unauthorized Pets/Animals:

All pets are prohibited from BRCC campuses, except for service animals specifically trained to perform work or tasks for a person with a disability (see Service Animal Policy - No. 5.533).

Comfort animals are not permitted on campus. While on BRCC property, animals must be attended to and restrained at all times.

Tampering with Student Organization, Election, or Vote:

Tampering with any form or phase of the election of any student organization or group.

Group or Organization Conduct:

Clubs/organizations that are not officially registered with the Office of Student Life are prohibited from meeting or gathering in unison for the purpose of conducting business on campus.

Violation of College Policies, Rules, or Regulations:

Assembling on campus for the purpose of rioting or instigating disorderly, disruptive conduct that interferes with the educational processes of the college (BRCC recognizes the right to peacefully assemble).

Distribution of unauthorized literature, handbills, posters, or other printed matter. Publications that do not bear the name of the originator or do not adhere to BRCC publication standards cannot be distributed on the BRCC campus. Prior approval must be granted from the SPAR office for any material distributed.

Failure to respond to a request to report to a College administrative office or to comply with directions of College officials acting in the performance of their duties.

Violation of College policies and regulations as stipulated in this and other official College publications, or as promulgated and announced by authorized personnel.

Abuse of the College judicial program as outlined in this Code including, but not limited to:

1. Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before any judicial body.
2. Knowingly initiating any judicial proceedings without cause.
3. Attempting to discourage an individual’s participation in, or use of, any judicial system.
4. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of any judicial system.
5. Failure to comply with the sanctions imposed under the Code.

Failure to Comply with College or Civil Authority:

Failure to comply with legitimate directives of authorized college officials, law enforcement or emergency personnel, identified as such, in the performance of their duties, including failure to identify oneself when so requested; or violation of the terms of a disciplinary sanction.

Recording of Images without Knowledge:

Using electronic or other means to make a video or photographic record of any person in a location where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without the person’s prior knowledge, when such a recording is likely to cause injury, distress, or damage to reputation is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, taking video or photographic images in the classrooms, hallways, sidewalks, and/or restrooms etc. The storing, sharing, and/or distributing of such unauthorized records by any means is also prohibited.

Off Campus Behavior:

The College reserves the right to take disciplinary action against a student for off-campus conduct when such conduct adversely affects the College Community, poses a threat of harm to the College Community; interferes with the College’s pursuit of its objectives and mission, and/or if a student is charged with a violation of state or federal law. Proceedings under this Student Code may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus.

Additional Rules of Conduct

1. Additional student dress codes may be required in specific programs to meet safety codes or professional standards.
2. Telephone and mail service are not available to students. Students may not use the College address as a home or mailing address or utilize College telephones without express permission for College-related or emergency situations.
3. Students who have an emergency that involves critical illness or the death of a family member should call the BRCC main phone line, (225) 216-8000. The Office of Public Safety should be contacted for on-campus emergencies by dialing (225) 216-8888 (6-8888 from a campus line). Students can also use the red emergency phones located in strategic areas around campus.
4. Food, drinks, and children are not allowed in the academic classrooms, science labs, or technical labs. Students, faculty, and staff may bring food/beverages into the lobbies, halls, and designated areas in each building.
5. All electronic devices including cell phones should be turned off and placed securely away during classes unless required by faculty.

BRCC Computer Use Policy

Users of BRCC’s Open Computer Labs and the College’s computer system must adhere to state and federal laws which refer to computer fraud, software piracy, etc., and must not:

• Use BRCC Computers for any dishonest or unethical purpose (including violations of academic integrity standards).
• Disrupt/destroy computer facilities or equipment.
• Violate licenses and copyright agreements, BRCC policies, and state/federal laws.
• Visit pornographic sites or display pornographic material.
• Damage/steal College-owned equipment or software.
• Create or display false system messages.
• Purposefully cause system slow-downs or render a system inoperable.
• Gain or attempt to gain access to an account without proper authorization.
• Introduce virus, worms, or other malicious software into any system.

The Computer Systems Protection Act outlaws certain accesses, alterations, damages, or destruction of a computer systems, computer networks, or computer software/data.

BRCC adheres to Educational Communications (EDUCOM) copyright policies. Most software used on BRCC computers is covered by copyright, license, or non-disclosure agreements. For committing the violations listed below, offending students may be assessed civil penalties in addition to being subjected to disciplinary action. These violations include, but are not limited to:

• Making copies of copyrighted/licensed software without first obtaining proper authorization.
• Using software in violation of copyright, license, or non-disclosure agreements.
• Using College computers for unauthorized private or commercial purposes.

On-campus Internet Usage
It is acceptable to use the Internet for research and educational objectives. Access to the Internet does not provide automatic access to any system connected to the Internet. Unauthorized access will result in termination of Internet Access privileges.

Social Media/Blogging Policy
Students of BRCC are expected to demonstrate courtesy, civility, and respect when interacting with fellow students and College faculty/staff through online and electronic communication. Students should adhere to the Student Code of Conduct when utilizing social media and online environments such as weblogs (blogs), Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, the BRCC App, MySpace, Twitter, Second Life, YouTube, or any new/emerging online environments, particularly when accessed or created using a BRCC Email account.

A student shall not:

1. Circumvent any College IT system security feature including hacking, probing, or attempting to break into other users’ accounts.
2. In connection with a College IT system, obtain or use another person’s account name, username or password unless specifically authorized to do so by a College administrator.
3. In connection with a College IT system, create, use, or transmit a computer virus, worm, spyware, or other type of malicious software.
4. In connection with a College IT system, allow another person to use one’s account name, username or password unless specifically authorized to do so by a College administrator.
5. Alter, disrupt, or reconfigure any College IT system unless specifically authorized to do so by a College administrator. This prohibition includes (a) the unauthorized introduction of any new hardware, software, network device or telephone on a College IT system; (b) the unauthorized removal or reconfiguration of any College hardware, software, network device, or telephone from a College IT system; and (c) the unauthorized running of an IT server, whether virtual or physical, on any College IT system network.
6. Use a College IT system to access, view, download, create, store, send, or forward sexually inappropriate materials.
7. In connection with a College IT system, forge email or other electronic information or engage in any other conduct that is inappropriate or degrades the accuracy of student or other College data.
8. Engage in unauthorized access of any College IT system, any student data, or any other College data.
9. Access, view, download, create, store, send, or forward spam, pranks, pornographic or obscene images or words, or harassing, vulgar, threatening, solicitations, or intimidating messages on a College IT system.
10. Illegally download copyrighted material or violate any software license agreement or intellectual property rights in any College-related context.

Disciplinary Sanctions and Proceedings
Sanctions are consequential outcomes that may result from the violation of one or more articles of Prohibited Conduct or College rules and policies from the findings of a Formal Conduct Hearing. Stipulations are terms that may be imposed upon a student as a condition of resuming or continuing studies at the College. When a student has violated one or more of the articles of Prohibited Conduct, an informal resolution - an agreement between the Conduct Officer and the student - may include stipulations such as: reflective papers, education courses, community service, workshops, etc. The sanctions imposed following a Formal Conduct Hearing that follow are listed in order of severity. As the result of a disciplinary hearing the Conduct Officer may choose to issue any sanction, in a given case, as deemed warranted by the preponderance of the evidence in that particular case and the student’s cumulative disciplinary record.

• Admonition: an oral caution or reprimand to the student offender that he or she has violated College regulations.
• Formal Warning: an official written reprimand, warning, or notice to the student indicating that certain behavior is unacceptable, and that improvement is expected, or additional disciplinary action (specified or in general) will be taken.
• Suspension: a fixed period of time during which the student is physically separated from the College and must leave campus. Students with disciplinary suspensions cannot return to campus and cannot use College facilities for the duration of the suspension. Disciplinary suspension becomes part of a student’s permanent academic and personal records. All students who have been suspended from the College for disciplinary reasons must be cleared for readmission by the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development and/or designee.
• Expulsion: permanent termination or separation of a student from the college. Students who are expelled from BRCC cannot be readmitted, cannot return to campus, and cannot use College facilities/resources. Expelled students may be barred from campus following their expulsion. Expulsion becomes part of a student’s permanent academic and personal records.
• Probation: a period of restriction whereby the student remains enrolled in the College, but under the stated conditions as outlined in the notification of probation, for the duration of the period. Disciplinary probation can involve exclusion from privileges and specific/all extracurricular activities.
• Interim Suspension: A student receiving an interim suspension will immediately be required to vacate College property and shall be restricted from all College activities. An interim suspension may be imposed if the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development or designee, determines that the continued presence of the student presents a real or potential danger to himself or herself, any other person, to property or to the campus and/or college. An interim suspension shall remain in effect only until a Conduct meeting can be held.
• Dismissal: a separation of the student from the institution. A dismissed student will be removed from all classes and not permitted to re-enroll while the dismissal is in effect. Dismissal may either be definite, for a specific period of time, such as a number of semesters or indefinite, the dismissal in effect until certain conditions are met by the student that allow for readmission. The dismissed student may be barred from campus and/or from utilizing campus services during the term of their suspension.
• Conduct Probation: formal recognition that the student is not currently in good disciplinary standing with the College. Probation may impact the student’s eligibility to participate in certain programs (i.e.: student organizations, leadership roles, campus events) or services. Probation may either be definite, for a specific period of time, such as a number of semesters or indefinite, the probation is in effect until certain conditions are met by the student that allow for conduct probation removal.
• Written Reprimand: a notice in writing to the student that the student has violated institutional regulations and must cease and not repeat the inappropriate action and future misconduct may lead to a more severe penalty.

Educational Sanctions

• Educational Sanctions: required participation in community/public service, selected educational programs, and/or the completion of a research project. The student is responsible for the payment of any fees related to the extra programs or research project.
• Fine: a payment as penalty for violating College regulations or standards of academic/student conduct.
• Restitution: an order to provide compensation or reimbursement for damage to property, and/or appropriate corrective action for a grievance caused to a member of the academic community.
• Ejection: the removal of a student from a particular course or other educational program for the term. A student may also be barred from any further participation in certain educational/academic activities. Students who are ejected from a course may either have that course purged from their records or be assigned a grade, as individual circumstances warrant and as approved by the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development or designee.
• Forfeiture of Academic Credit: certain actions of academic or other misconduct may warrant the forfeiture of any academic credit awarded, particularly if the credit was earned in a manner inconsistent with standards of academic integrity. Forfeiture of Academic Credit due to violations of academic integrity may become part of a student’s permanent academic record, as circumstances warrant.
• Warning: a notice in writing to the student that the student has violated institutional regulations and must cease and not repeat the inappropriate action.
• Loss of Privileges: denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time. This sanction may include, for example, denial of the right to represent the College in such things as student leadership capacities or sports teams, denial of the use of campus facilities, or denial of parking privileges, or loss of privileges to participate in organizations, activities, or events.
• Restriction/Relocation: prohibited from entering a building without prior authorization.
• No Contact Order: prohibition against having any form of contact with another student for a defined period of time. Such contact includes in person communications, telephone calls, e-mails, or sending messages through a third party, etc.
• Restitution: compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of service, monetary compensation, or material replacement.
• Mandated Administrative Tasks: completion of a specific number of hours of administrative tasks. Typically, this service is to the college community.
• Educational Projects/Initiatives: projects, classes or assignments designated to educate students in connection with the effects of his/her behavior.
• Fines: monetary fine sanctions depend on severity and the degree of the infraction.
• Meeting with a Professional Counseling Staff Member: The student will meet with a professional counseling staff member to discuss their choices and behavior related to the incident.
• Letter of Apology: Student must write a letter of apology to whomever was affected negatively by their behavior.
• Other Sanctions: other sanctions as deemed appropriate by a hearing body/conduct officer.

General Sanctions

• General Sanctions: any appropriate action whereby the sanction imposed is related to the offense but does not include probation, suspension, or expulsion. The action may include loss of privileges, inability to participate or hold office in student organizations, loss of scholarship money, or any other sanction that the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development or designee approves.

A student facing disciplinary action may receive temporary sanctions from the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development or designee, such as provisional non-disciplinary suspension pending the final disposition of the case, which may be imposed to maintain the orderly operation of the College.

Sexual Misconduct, Title IX, and Campus Sex Crimes Prevention

Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) is committed to providing a learning and working environment that is safe and encourages integrity and mutual respect. Additionally, BRCC is dedicated to providing an environment that is free of discrimination of any kind on the basis of sex and sexual misconduct. This includes sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual violence, rape, dating or intimate relationship violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and or retaliation. In accordance with Title IX and other applicable law, BRCC prohibits sex discrimination and sexual misconduct and will take appropriate action to prevent, correct, and discipline behavior that violates college policy. Any person (student, visitor, employee, vendor, etc.) found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action. Such actions can include, but are not limited to suspension, expulsion, criminal charges, and/or separation from the College. Additionally, an individual criminally charged may be subject to prosecution by the Office of the District Attorney under Louisiana Criminal Statutes.

This policy shall apply to all students, employees, vendors, and all other individuals conducting business with BRCC. This policy shall apply to any conduct that occurs on the property of any BRCC location or campus building(s) owned or controlled by the College. This includes but is not limited to, BRCC classes (on site or online); BRCC-sponsored events and activities; when a student or employee is representing BRCC; and/or when the conduct of a student or employee would adversely affect the image of the College.

Any student who believes that he/she has been subjected to sexual discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual misconduct shall report the incident to any student affairs administrator, counselor, or Office of Public Safety as soon as possible after the alleged incident occurs. Any person who witnesses an incident or receives a complaint shall be responsible for notifying any of the Title IX administrators for the College. All complaints of sexual discrimination, sexual harassment or sexual misconduct should be reported to the BRCC Police Department. However, a student who feels that he/she is the victim of such conduct has the legal right not to report the incident to the College police or law enforcement. Also, no student or employee is required to report or make a complaint of discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual misconduct to the person who is or has engaged in the conduct in question.

All incidents relating to sexual misconduct and Title IX will be handled according to College policy 6.602 Title IX and Sexual Misconduct.

Alcohol and Drug Policy

The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 (Public Law 101-226) requires the College to remit certification to the Department of Education that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent illicit use of drugs and abuse of alcohol by its students and employees. The program includes:

• Standards of conduct concerning the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs; and the illegal use of alcohol by students and employees on College property or at any College activity.
• A description of the legal sanctions for violating the law.
• A clear statement of the College’s sanctions issued for the commission of these types of violations.
• A description of any drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation services offered at BRCC.
• A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol.

The information provided in this section complies with the requirements of the act.

Statement of Purpose
Alcohol abuse is a major issue in the community and on college campuses. Use of alcohol or drugs can lead to physical abuse, date rape, auto accidents, violence, health issues and other self-destructive behaviors.

BRCC complies with local, state, and federal laws pertaining to alcohol and enforces underage drinking laws. College policy prohibits the consumption, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, and disciplines individuals under the influence of any controlled substance while on College property or participating in College-sponsored trips or activities.

The use, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs, or being under the influence of a controlled substance is strictly prohibited on College property or while participating in College-sponsored events.

College Sanctions
Disciplinary actions are taken for the commission of violations pertaining to BRCC’s drug policy by any student. Disciplinary actions for students are issued in accordance with procedures identified in the Student Code of Conduct.

Legal Sanctions
It is unlawful in Louisiana to produce, manufacture, distribute, dispense, or possess illegal drugs. The most common illegal drugs on College campuses are marijuana, opium derivatives, hallucinogens, depressants, cocaine, cocaine derivatives, and amphetamines. The Criminal Code of Louisiana carries specific penalties for the possession and use of illegal drugs. It is also unlawful in Louisiana for anyone under 21 years of age to purchase/possess alcoholic beverages for any reason or anywhere open to the public.

Controlled Dangerous Substances, Schedule I - IV (R.S. 40:981.3)
It is unlawful to possess, sell, distribute, or manufacture those drugs listed in the relevant Louisiana statute(s). These drugs include, but are not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, “crack” cocaine, methamphetamines, heroine, “rush” LSD, “roofies,” and prescription drugs without a valid prescription from a licensed physician. Individuals found guilty of a drug violation are subject to a fine of not less than $500, imprisonment at hard labor for up to 30 years, or, if found selling illegal drugs on campus, imprisonment at hard labor for up to 45 years.

Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention Counseling Services
BRCC’s Office of Counseling and Accessibility Services can provide immediate, short-term personal counseling for students and referral to community resources. For long-term or in-depth care, the Office can assist students in locating a local area counseling specialist.

Academic Appeals Policy and Procedure

An Academic Appeal (not including student grievances per BRCC Policy No. 1.4330) may be initiated by the student for academic issues that may include, but not be limited to: grade change, retroactive withdrawal request, contest of an awarded grade, general academic issues, faculty member issues not addressed in Student Grievance, Title IX and Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, and other College policies, and other academic issues arising from extenuating circumstances. A final grade for a course officially entered into the student management system may be changed by a faculty member issuing the grade, unless otherwise resolved through the appeal process or in the case of institutional error.

Informal Appeal:

• Students should first discuss the issue with the faculty member involved as an informal step to resolution of the issue.
• If the issue is not resolved, the student should make an appointment to meet with the appropriate Department Chair to discuss the issue within ten (10) business days of the date of the issue. Every effort will be made at this stage to mediate and resolve all informal appeals.
• The Department Chair will notify the student in writing within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the informal appeal proceedings.

Formal Appeals:
First Level:

• If the issue is not resolved at the informal stage or the issue is of a nature that resolution at the informal stage is not possible, the student may complete an Academic Appeal form and submit the completed form along with attached additional documentation to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA) within ten (10) business days of the notification of the outcome of the informal process or ten (10) business days from the date of the academic issue giving rise to the appeal. Academic Appeal forms are available on the BRCC website or the Office of the VCAA.
• Submission of the Academic Appeal form constitutes a formal request for a review of the academic issue.
• The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs will forward the matter to the appropriate academic Dean for review and resolution.
• The Dean will review material submitted by the student and will conduct a review of the circumstances surrounding the appeal.
• The Dean will schedule a meeting with the student to afford the student the opportunity to review the matter in detail.
• The Dean will notify the student in writing within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the formal appeal proceeding.

Second Level

• If the student does not feel the matter is resolved to their satisfaction, the matter may be referred to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA). No appeals will be considered by the VCAA until all informal and initial appeal at the level of the Dean have been conducted.
• Academic appeals to the VCAA will be conducted through convening an Academic Appeals Committee meeting in which the student will have an opportunity to discuss the matter with the Committee. Appeals will be considered by the Academic Appeals Committee under the following circumstances:

1. Failure to follow provisions of this or other applicable procedures with such failure resulting in prejudice to the student;
2. Excessively severe sanction(s);
3. Newly discovered evidence that could not reasonably have been discovered prior to the hearing.

• Decisions on Academic Appeals made by the Academic Appeals Committee are final.

Grade change/appeals requests must occur within the following semester (including summer) of the original grade issuance. After the one-semester period, a request for review of grade will not be granted unless there are unusual circumstances that were not known within the designated petition period or as determined appropriate by the Division Dean.

Display of Non-College Publications

BRCC is a “free marketplace of ideas” that guarantees the display of non-College publications on campus. The following procedure on the display of non-College publications assists BRCC in managing their display and distribution. BRCC does not approve, disapprove, support, or fail to support the content of such publications.

1. An Agreement for Display of Non-College Publications must be completed and filed in the OSL office. Agreements are renewed annually; however, BRCC can cancel an agreement at any time by issuing a two-week notice to the vendor.
2. OSL assigns display locations, made solely at the discretion of BRCC.
3. Display racks must be provided and used by the vendor to display publications. Each publisher must keep its rack(s) clean and in good order. Only current issues should be displayed. Outdated materials are to be removed and discarded.
4. Publications that are primarily used for advertisement are subject to BRCC’s Sales and Solicitation policy. The policy must be followed, or the publication will be classified as an advertisement. It will then be removed and discarded, and the agreement with the vendor will be cancelled.
5. BRCC retains the right to modify these regulations, particularly with regard to:
   1. Removing outdated issues of a publication.
   2. Changing display locations.
   3. Canceling agreements.
6. Postings that violate the Display of Non-College Publications policy are discarded.

Sales and Solicitation

BRCC does not permit the operation of private business enterprises on campus unless the business is under contract to the College. As specified by related procedures, all private business interests on BRCC property are only operated as auxiliaries to the business, and are under the direct management, control, and supervision of the College’s chief business officer.

Procedures for Students and/or Student Organizations
Flyers, handbills, and leaflets advertising the sale or solicitation of items, services, or other information cannot be distributed to BRCC faculty, staff, or students without prior approval from Office of Student Life. Placement of literature and solicitations are regulated by the OSL. Signs or posters cannot be displayed on buildings, trees, sidewalks, handrails, or grounds unless approved by the Office of Student Life.

Free Expression Policy

BRCC supports free expression as denoted in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. The College makes provisions for the expression of diverse viewpoints in an academic setting, but in no way supports, fails to support, agrees, or disagrees with ideas that are voiced.

The College has designated locations at each instructional site as areas set aside for use as a Free Expression Area. The following procedures govern its use.

1. Persons can engage in free expression on BRCC property within the published operating hours of the College.
2. Person engaged in free expression are not allowed to impede the free flow of pedestrian traffic or interfere with the ingress/egress of individuals moving to and from buildings on campus.
3. Persons engaged in free expression are not allowed to pose a health or safety threat to the College, the College community, College organizations, or the public. Individuals and/or groups wishing to use Free Expression Areas must complete and submit a Free Expression Area Application to the Office of Student Life at least three (3) working days prior using the areas.
4. All applications/publicity must be approved by the Office of the Dean of Students. Once approved, the Office of the Dean of Students will provide copies of the application form and proposed activity to the Provost/Vice Chancellor for Workforce and Student Development or designee, the Director of Public Safety, the site administrator (if applicable), and the applicant.
5. Disruptive behavior and persistent defiance of the policy is strictly prohibited.
6. Interfering with or precluding a scheduled speaker from being heard is prohibited.
7. Damaging College property, including facilities, equipment, signage, lawns, shrubs, or trees is prohibited.
8. Sound amplification devices are prohibited.
9. The Baton Rouge Community College name and logo can only be used in any form of free expression with the written approval of the Chief Marketing and Public Relations Officer.

Student Assemblies

Students who need to utilize campus facilities for an event must first reserve the facilities through the Office of Student Life. Whenever an activity held in the name of the College includes a speaker, Director of Student Life must officially approve the speaker and coordinate the event with the BRCC Offices of Facility Services and Public Safety.