Student Handbook

Academic, Student and Campus Services: Additional Information: Collected Grievance Procedures: Academic Calendar AIDS and HIV Academic Integrity Accommodations Attendance Student Code of Conduct Accreditation Children on Campus Student Complaints Campus Safety & Security Contact Information Student Ombudsman Summary of Reported Crimes on Campus Free Expression on Campus Title IX Grievances Counseling Services Lecture Recordings Student Rights & Responsibilities NWFSC Website Notices   Paying for College Policy Formulation   Parking Regulations Religious Observance by Students   RaiderNet Restrooms   Service Animals Student Fundraising   Student Email Accounts Student Publications   Student Records Substance Abuse Policy     Tobacco Use

Academic, Student and Campus Services:

• Academic Calendar:

NWFSC’s academic calendar is available here.

• ​Accommodations:

The Accommodation Resource Center at Northwest Florida State College is committed to providing equal access and opportunities for educational success to all students with disabilities as guided by the American Disabilities Act and other disability-related laws.

• Accreditation:

Information about College and Program accreditation is available here .

• Campus Safety & Security:

All criminal incidents should be reported to Campus Safety, the NWFSC administrator in charge of a function, or an attending faculty or staff member. NWFSC will implement appropriate actions including, but not limited to, contacting the relevant law enforcement agency, any medical services needed or others as appropriate. Reports can be made by phone (850) 729-6888/598-6602 or Incident Forms online. 

• For our Student Code of Conduct, Academic Integrity Requirement, or student complaints, see the Collected Grievance Procedure.
• Summary of Reported Crimes on Campus: Students may review the annual Safety and Fire Report here.

• ​Counseling Services:

Northwest Florida State College has partnered with Bridgeway Center, Inc. to provide mental health resources and counseling services to all actively enrolled students. All actively enrolled students are eligible to receive an initial assessment and up to five therapeutic sessions with a Behavioral Health provider at no cost to the student.  A menu of services and resources is available at www.nwfsc.edu/studentcounselingservices.  Bridgeway Center Confidential Helpline: (850) 833-7500, Select Option 1 - Open 24 hours/day.

• NWFSC Website:

The Northwest Florida State College website is located at www.nwfsc.edu. The website provides access to College information such as admissions, registration, financial aid, bookstore, Raider life, academic resources, academic calendars, instructor websites, and more.

• Paying for College:

Please refer to the Paying for College section of the College Catalog for information about cost, fees, cost of instruction for third attempts, and refunds.

• Parking Regulations:

NWFSC is an open-parking campus.  Except for handicap-accessible parking spots, all other parking spots are available for use by students, staff, and visitor

• RaiderNet:

RaiderNet is the student on-line information and registration system. RaiderNet provides access to update contact information, register for classes, view grades, and obtain unofficial transcripts, enrollment verification, degree audit, and financial aid status. To access RaiderNet from the college’s homepage, click the quick link “RaiderNet” on www.nwfsc.edu. For questions concerning access to RaiderNet, call (850) 729-5396.

• Service Animals:

Service animals are permitted on NWFSC campuses. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) defines Service animals as “dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.”   Please see the ADA Requirements and Florida Statute 413.08 regarding service animals.

• At Northwest Florida State College you will see students and other individuals being assisted by service animals on campus. Service animals are trained to do a job for those with physical or mental impairments. They are not on campus for others to pet or interact with unless the owner says otherwise. Owners of service animals are responsible for keeping the animal under direct control, promptly cleaning up after the animal, and disposing of waste in an outdoor container. State, local government, and/or campus authorities, may request that the handler remove their service animal from college premises, if it is (1) out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it or (2) the animal is not housebroken.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are different than service animals because they do not have specialized training to perform specific duties. Due to their lack of training to assist with specific disabilities, Emotional Support Animals are not allowed access to campus and classrooms in the same way service animals are. If you have questions, please contact the Accommodations Resource Center at arc@nwfsc.edu.

• ​​Student Email Accounts:

Students are assigned a NWFSC student email account during the application for admission process. The student email address serves as the official method of communication to the student from the college. This email service is reserved for college business. For more information and to access student email, go to www.nwfsc.edu. Send questions concerning access to student email to support@nwfsc.edu or call (850) 729-5396.

• Student Records:

Please refer to the Student Records section of the College Catalog for information about grades, incomplete grades, repeating courses, grade changes/error, grade grievances, and the academic history grade relief option.

Additional Information:

• AIDS and HIV:

NWFSC Policy #GP12.00 and FS 1006.68 state that students with AIDS or who are HIV positive are not denied admission to the college. Students are encouraged to confidentially disclose to the Accommodation Resource Center if needed to obtain accommodations in classrooms such as lab classes. HIV/AIDS education information may be obtained from the Department of Health in Okaloosa or Walton County.

• Attendance:

Regular and prompt attendance in all classes is expected. Instructors establish attendance policies for their classes and outline such expectations in the course syllabus. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the instructor and make arrangements to complete any missed work. (Make-up work is offered solely at the discretion of the instructor.) Excessive absences can affect the success of course completion and financial aid funding. This general policy applies to the student absent from class traveling as a member of a college group, or club or for personal reasons.

• Children on Campus:

NWFSC values family life and has worked to develop policies that are supportive of families. However, it is the policy of NWFSC that students and visitors should not use the College in lieu of a childcare provider. Accordingly, minor children of employees, students, or visitors may be on campus only under the special circumstances outlined below.  Contact the Chief Student Success Officer for any questions or concerns.

• Minor children are permitted on campus when the purpose of their visit is to participate in activities, classes, or events specifically scheduled for their benefit (e.g. Kids on Campus, Children’s Fine Arts Series, Child Development and Education Center).
• Minor children are permitted on campus when with a parent or responsible adult who is conducting routine business at the college.
• Minor children are not permitted in labs, shops, construction/repair sites, classrooms, offices, or other areas where potential hazards exist, unless enrolled in classes or activities scheduled at the site.
• In an emergency or other compelling situation, students or staff may bring children to class on an incidental, individual basis, provided the instructor receives advance approval from the department chair or program director. In such cases, the children must be directly supervised by the parent/adult and must not disrupt or distract the flow of college work, services or instruction.
• Minor children on campus must be directly supervised at all times.

• ​Free Expression on Campus:

Consistent with Board of Trustees Policy GP 19.00, Northwest Florida State College values the freedoms of speech, thought, expression, and assembly as part of its core educational and intellectual mission. The College is committed to creating a learning and working environment that supports these values, champions diversity, and encourages the free exchange of ideas, while also maintaining the integrity of the academic environment and the security of students, employees, visitors and college property. The College reserves the right to establish and enforce reasonable, viewpoint - neutral restrictions on the time, place, and manner of expressive activities in outdoor common areas to achieve these goals. The content of expressive activities will not be considered in regulating speech in outdoor areas, except to the extent permitted by law.

• Notices:

As a general practice, the College does not post student club/organization flyers throughout the campus. Recognized student organizations may work with Raider Life to post digital flyers/notices using approved mediums, such as the Raider Life social media pages and the weekly student newsletter.

• Policy Formulation:

​A student who wishes to suggest a change in any policy of the college should submit a written recommendation to the Student Advisory Board (SAB) for evaluation. If favorably received by the SAB, the proposal shall be submitted by the SAB to the appropriate work group of the college for consideration.

• Lecture Recordings:​

A student may record video or audio of a class lecture for any of three specific purposes:

• Their own personal educational use,
• In connection with a complaint to Northwest Florida State College, or
• As evidence in, or in preparation for, a criminal or civil proceeding.

Class Lecture Defined

A class lecture is a formal or methodical oral presentation as part of a College course intended to present information or teach about a particular subject. A class lecture will occur most often in a course identified by the College as a lecture type course, whether online or in-person, as opposed to a lab course or a course section identified as a discussion section. Class lecture does not include lab sessions or activities, student presentations (whether individually or as part of a group), class discussion (except when incidental to and incorporated within a class lecture), clinical presentations (including any material relating to autopsy, personal health information, or patient treatment or history), crime scene instruction, class exercises or activities involving student participation, test or examination administrations, field trips, private or other classroom conversations between students, or individual instruction, feedback, or conversation between a student and the faculty member.

Recording Guidelines

1. A recorded lecture may not be published without the consent of the lecturer. To publish is to share, transmit, circulate, distribute, or otherwise provide access to the recording, regardless of format or medium, to another person, or persons, including but not limited to another student in the class. Additionally, a recording, or transcript of the recording, is published if it is posted on or uploaded to, in whole or in part, any media platform, including but not limited social media, book, magazine, newspaper, leaflet, picket signs, or any mode of print.
2. Recordings are subject to the protections provided in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
3. Students must adhere to classroom behavioral standards while recording.

• Religious Observance by Students:

The College shall accommodate recognized religious observances of students under existing State directives. Provision shall be made for students to complete the following activities when their religious observances interfere with the following:

• Admission and registration
• Attendance in class, class activities, examinations, and official ceremonies
• Class work assignments

Students wishing to participate in any recognized religious holiday observances are to let the instructor know, in advance, of their absence. Students will be excused for such absences without penalty. Students are responsible for any material covered during their excused absence. A reasonable amount of time will be allowed to complete make up assignments. Students who believe they have been denied an education benefit because of their religious belief or practice may seek redress as outlined in the Student Grievance Procedures.

• Restrooms:

Subject to the provisions and exemptions of FS 553.865, it is unlawful and a violation of law to willfully enter and refuse to vacate a restroom or changing facility designated for the opposite sex after a request to do so from any administrative, instructional, security or law enforcement personnel or any other action or omission related to restroom/changing room use that violates FS 553.865, Florida Statutes. Students, administrative personnel, faculty members, security personnel, and law enforcement personnel have the right to file a complaint with the Attorney General.

• Student Fundraising:

Fundraising activities by students and/or student organizations are permissible when the specific purpose is to support institutional scholarships, humanitarian/charitable efforts, or a recognized student organization’s mission and goals. Students/Student Organizations must receive approval by completing the Activity Request Form located on the Raider Life website at least one month prior to the activity’s scheduled date.

• Student Publications:

​Student publications shall contain a statement to the effect that the opinions expressed therein are not necessarily those of the faculty, staff or student body of the college.

• Substance Abuse Policy:

NWFSC Drug-Free Work Place Policy #HR 4.00 states that Northwest Florida State College is alcohol and drug free in accordance with Public Law 100-690, The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of alcohol or a controlled substance is prohibited in and on NWFSC owned and controlled property except for events specifically approved to include alcohol. Students in violation will be subject to disciplinary action as stated in the Student Code of Conduct published in the Student Handbook/College Catalog and may be subject to criminal prosecution.

• Tobacco Use:

Per NWFSC Smoking and Tobacco Policy #HR 21.00 states: 
Smoking and the use of all tobacco products (including E-cigarettes, vaping and smokeless tobacco) shall be prohibited from use at all Northwest Florida State College facilities, properties, and vehicles, owned or leased, regardless of location.

This policy shall apply to all students, faculty, staff and other persons on College property, regardless of the purpose for their visit. Further, no tobacco-related advertising or sponsorship shall be permitted on NWFSC property, at NWFSC-sponsored events, or in publications produced by NWFSC, apart from advertising in a newspaper or magazine that is not produced by NWFSC and which is sold, brought, or distributed on NWFSC property.

• Contact Information:

• Academic Departments: click here
• Campus Safety: (850) 729-6888 or click here
• IT Help Desk: (850) 729-5396 or support@nwfsc.edu
• Raider Central: (850) 678-5111/502-2895 or studentsuccess@nwfsc.edu
• Student Ombudsman: (850) 729-5277 or ombudsman@nwfsc.edu

Collected Grievance Procedures:

Definitions and General Standards

The information in this section is applicable to the entire Collected Grievance Procedures.

I. Definitions

The definitions provided in this section apply to the entire Collected Grievance Procedures.

1. “College” or “NWFSC” mean Northwest Florida State College.
2. “College” paired with “official”, “staff”, or “employee” means any trustee or agent of or person employed by Northwest Florida State College.
3. “College premises” or “on campus” or “College location” includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of and controlled by Northwest Florida State College.
4. “Day” means Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Central) except for days on which the College is closed according to the College Academic Calendar. If the College is closed by decision of the College President on a day or for a portion of a day not listed in the Academic Calendar, that day does not count as a “day” for purposes of calculating timeframes.
5. “Student” means any person who is or was or has ever been admitted the College, whether for credit or non-credit offerings. A “student” continues to be a “student” after award of an academic credential for purposes of revocation or invalidation of academic credit or credential or degree or referring an incident to appropriate authorities.  A student of Collegiate High School (CHS) at Northwest Florida State College who is dual-enrolled at NWFSC is a “student” for the purpose of these procedures; whereas a student of CHS at NWFSC who is not dual-enrolled at NWFSC is not a “student” for the purpose of these procedures.
6. “Student organization” means a group of students that has complied with the requirements for recognition by the College and is recognized by the College at the time of the issue in question.

II. General Standards

The standards provided in this section apply to the entire Collected Grievance Procedures.

1. If a College employee is listed as the individual responsible for a task(s) within a complaint process and that person was personally involved in the facts of the complaint or is related to the individuals involved in the complaint, the College will replace the conflicted individual with another staff member within the same department or with a similar role or rank to complete the necessary tasks. In the case of the Vice President of Academic Affairs or the Chief Student Success Officer, either individual may be appointed in the other’s place or, as a last resort, the President may designate their replacement.

Student Support Resources

The College makes a variety of resources available to students to support their academic and personal success. A collection of those resources is listed in this section, and the College strongly recommends that students and staff take advantage of these resources.

I. Office of the Student Ombudsman

The Director of Raider Life on the Niceville Campus is the Student Ombudsman and may be contacted at (850) 729-6483 or ombudsman@nwfsc.edu. Any student may confidentially discuss complaints, concerns, or problems with the Student Ombudsman, which is a resource that public colleges must offer to students under Florida Statutes § 1006.51.

The Student Ombudsman’s goal is to assist any student in informally resolving concerns, finding support, and reaching an informal consensus on either academic or non-academic matters. The Student Ombudsman is a resource for general student support but, as appropriate, the Student Ombudsman also provides an avenue or informal support and resolution before it becomes necessary to proceed with any type of formal grievance process.

Notwithstanding the confidentiality for many complaints, concerns, or problems, under the Title IX regulations (34 C.F.R. part 106), the Student Ombudsman is a responsible employee. As such, the Student Ombudsman must report potential Title IX allegations to the Title IX Coordinator. Likewise, the Student Ombudsman is a responsible employee for reporting child abuse or neglect or other required disclosures related to health and safety under federal or state law.

II. Direction to Additional Resources

• Student Counseling: www.nwfsc.edu/studentcounselingservices
• Accommodations Resource Center: www.nwfsc.edu/accommodations
• Learning Commons: https://www.nwfsc.edu/raider-central/zoghby-learning-commons/

III. Retaliation Prohibited

The College prohibits retaliation against any person who files a complaint alleging discrimination, harassment, or other wrongdoing or against any person alleged to have committed discrimination, harassment, or other wrongdoing.

Student Complaints

This procedure is appropriate for grade grievances or making a complaint against a College employee or department that involves the College failing to follow its processes and procedures, behaving in an unprofessional or inappropriate manner, or other matters that are not addressed by other complaint or grievance procedures.

I. Definitions

In addition to the general definitions for the Collected Grievance Procedures, these specific definitions apply to Student Complaints:

1. A “complaint” or “grievance” is the written statement against an employee or department of the College alleging that it has violated or otherwise not properly followed a published policy or procedure of the College or other law or regulation applicable to the College or that an employee has behaved in an inappropriate or unprofessional manner.
   1. An “academic” complaint is any dispute with an instructor or department related to in-class or in-program act or omission described in (1).
   2. A “non-academic” complaint is any dispute with a College employee or department related to an act or omission described in (1) that did not take place within a class or program in relation to that class or program.

II. Scope of Student Complaints

This procedure addresses student concerns about College acts or omissions. It has a limited scope that does not include the following:

1. A student complaint cannot be used to resolve matters between students or against any non-employee of the College.
2. A student complaint cannot be used to challenge the legitimacy of the policy of the District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College or other rules adopted by the College.
3. A student may not avoid, divert, or appeal a Student Code of Conduct matter through a student complaint. Any student complaint regarding a Student Code of Conduct matter will be referred to the Student Code of Conduct.
4. A student may not avoid, divert, or appeal an Academic Integrity matter through a student complaint. Any student complaint regarding an Academic Integrity matter will be referred to the Academic Integrity procedure.
5. A student complaint that implicates Title IX will be referred to the Title IX Coordinator.

III. Procedure for Processing Student Complaints

1. Support Measures and Informal Resolution: The College requires instructors, staff, and students to make every reasonable effort to resolve disputes and behavior issues informally in all appropriate cases. The College strives to make many avenues of support available to students and staff. Student Support Resources can be found at the top of this Collected Grievance Procedure.
2. Student Rights and Responsibilities in Complaint Process: The student filing the complaint must take all required steps for the complaint to continue to be processed. Failure to follow the published steps will result in the complaint being closed. The student must at every step of the complaint provide the factual basis for the complaint, cite the policy or procedure that the College has violated or failed to apply, and state the result that the student seeks.
3. Complaint: Any student may file a complaint within 30 days of the act or omission that has led to the complaint. In the case of grade grievances, the complaint must be filed within 30 days of the final grade being posted. The College may extend or waive that time limit when required by federal or state law or other written College policy or procedure or to protect the health, safety, or well being of the student, student organization, or other College student, personnel, or operations.
   1. Written Complaint: A student must submit a written complaint here. The student must state the circumstances about which they are complaining; identify the policies or procedures that have been violated or not properly followed; and identify their preferred resolution.
   2. Referral to Other Procedures: If the student’s complaint falls within a different procedure, the College will refer the complaint to the applicable procedure to begin proceedings without requiring the student to re-file the complaint.
   3. Inquiries Regarding Complaint Status: Inquiries about the status of the complaint will be addressed as appropriate in the review process. An affiliate or partner of the College (such as a high school or clinical site) seeking information regarding a complaint should contact the office responsible for administering the agreement with that affiliate or partner, and information will be provided as appropriate under this procedure.
4. Delivery of Notices: When information must be delivered to a party, it will be delivered as follows:
   1. Notices to students will be delivered to the student’s institutional e-mail address.
   2. Notices to student organizations will be delivered to the senior-ranking member of the organization’s institutional email address and the organization advisor’s institutional email address.
   3. Notices to employees will be delivered to the employee’s institutional email address.
   4. Any notice to a third party without a College email address will be delivered to the e-mail address as designated in the complaint or other official communication with the College.
5. Resolution of Complaint: When the College receives the complaint, it will refer the complaint to the appropriate reviewer.
   1. Grade Grievances: Before filing a complaint, the student must have attempted to informally resolve the dispute directly with the instructor. When the complaint is regarding a grade that the student argues should be changed, the complaint will be directed to the instructor.
      1. Review of Complaint: The instructor will review the complaint, follow up with the student to clarify any questions, and send their decision in writing to the student. The decision will be based on the College’s policy and procedure regarding grading, as stated in the College Catalog and the course syllabus. Absent extenuating circumstances, the instructor will deliver the decision within 15 days after receiving the complaint.
      2. Appeal: If the student believes that the instructor’s decision disregards the College’s policy and procedure regarding grading, as stated in the College Catalog and the course syllabus, the student may appeal to the Chair or Program Director within 5 days of receiving the instructor’s decision. The Chair or Program Director will review the matter to ensure that the instructor’s decision followed the College’s policy and procedure. Absent extenuating circumstances, the Chair or Program Director will deliver the result of the appeal within 15 days after receiving the appeal. The Chair or Program Director’s determination is final.
   2. Non-Grade Grievance Academic Complaints: Before filing a complaint, in all cases in which it is safe to do so, the student must have attempted to informally resolve the dispute directly with the instructor or relevant staff within the program. When the complaint is regarding in-course or in-program actions or omissions by an instructor or a program, the complaint will generally be directed to the Chair or Program Director or to another member of the supervisory chain that has not been involved in the issue.
      1. Review of Complaint: The reviewer will promptly read the complaint, follow up with the student to clarify any questions, and send their decision in writing to the student. The decision will be based on applicable College policy and procedure. Alternatively, the reviewer may resolve the matter informally with the parties’ involved or direct the student to support services and document the solution. The College reviewer may involve their supervisor or any other relevant College staff to resolve the complaint.
      2. Appeal: If the student believes that the reviewer disregarded College policy and procedure or ignored relevant facts in reaching their decision, the student may appeal within 5 days of receiving the reviewer’s decision. The appeal will be made to the applicable Dean or (if the Dean was the initial reviewer) to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. That reviewer will ensure that the initial reviewer’s decision followed the College’s policy and procedure and considered the relevant facts under policy and procedure. The reviewer will state in writing that the review has been completed and the result of that review. The secondary reviewer’s decision is final.
   3. Non-Academic Complaints: If it is safe to do so, before filing a complaint, the student must have attempted to informally resolve the dispute directly with the relevant staff member or department. When a complaint is not academic, the complaint will generally be directed to the employee’s supervisor or to the departmental supervisor that is relevant to the complaint. A complaint may also be referred to the relevant department based on subject, such as a referral to the Executive Director of Human Resources for matters regarding discrimination or Campus Safety & Security for active security risks.
      1. Review of Complaint: To the extent possible based on the facts of the complaint, the reviewer will read the complaint, follow up with the student regarding any questions, and seek an informal resolution. The reviewer may involve their supervisor or any other relevant College staff to resolve the complaint. Whenever possible, the College will provide the student with a written response to the complaint. The complaint will be closed following a written response.
   4. Status Quo Remains: If the student is challenging a grade given or other decision made or consequence imposed upon them by the College, that decision generally will stay in place during the review process. If the reviewer determines that it is incorrect based on College policy and procedure, the reviewer will take any appropriate steps to expedite review and make any necessary modifications.
6. Recordkeeping: The College will maintain the record of a student complaint and associated response for at least as long as is required by state law for the relevant type of record. While in possession of the record, the College shall make, preserve, and have available for copying upon request of the student an accurate and complete record of the complaint record as stated in this procedure.
    

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to conduct themselves as responsible members of the College community and to be honest and forthright in their academic endeavors. Students likewise are expected to behave professionally and refrain from disrupting other students’ learning environment. This procedure outlines the process for addressing allegations of academic integrity by both upholding the College’s academic standards and the due process rights of the student.

I. Definitions

In addition to the general definitions for the Collected Grievance Procedures, these specific definitions apply to the Academic Integrity Procedure.

1. A “meeting” is a communication between individuals, which may be held in person, through writing in an e-mail, or through a phone call or other asynchronous method.
2. “Designated Program” is a Selective Admission Program as defined in the College Catalog at the relevant time.

II. Prohibited Conduct

The following conduct is prohibited by this procedure. If other conduct not specifically designated here violates the Academic Integrity requirement set out in this procedure, that conduct may also be addressed as an Academic Integrity matter.

1.  Academic dishonesty includes but is not limited to:
   1. Cheating: During any academic evaluation activity, the use or attempted use of unauthorized materials, information, notes, study aids or other devices, information from another student or student’s paper, or engaging in unauthorized communication of information, contrary to the requirements of a course or program.
   2. Plagiarism: Presenting work in part or whole of another as one’s own without proper acknowledgment of the source or sources. The sole exception to the requirement of acknowledging sources occurs when ideas or information are common knowledge.
   3. Collaboration: Sharing information with or working together with at least one other person in work to be submitted if contrary to the stated requirements of the assignment or course.
2. Program handbook violation includes any violation of the standards set out within the program handbook.
3. Classroom misconduct includes, but is not limited to, direct or indirect disruptive, threatening, or otherwise unacceptable social, physical, or emotional behavior in the classroom that disrupts other students’ learning environment. Both engaging in or assisting with such activity is prohibited.
4. Practical learning experience misconduct includes violating any standard of a third party that is offering the student a practical learning experience that is required to complete the student’s degree program, such as an offsite clinical placement.
5. Professional regulations violation includes violating the standards of any accrediting body or regulatory authority that governs the student’s ability to complete the degree program.

III. Academic Integrity Procedure

At all times during an Academic Integrity procedure, all involved individuals will conduct themselves with professionalism and courtesy. When a student has allegedly violated the Academic Integrity requirement, the following procedures apply.

1. Support Measures and Resolution without a Complaint: The College encourages instructors, staff, and students to make every reasonable effort to resolve disputes, routine classroom management matters, and behavior issues informally in all appropriate cases. The College strives to make many avenues of support available. Student Support Resources can be found at the top of the Collected Grievance Procedures. Instructors are encouraged to refer students to support resources when behavioral or performance concerns first appear to reduce the likelihood of an Academic Integrity complaint for more severe behavior.
2. Complaint: Any instructor, staff, or student may file a complaint against a student for violation of the Academic Integrity requirement and is encouraged to do so as soon as possible after the alleged violation occurs. Submit a complaint here.
   1. Response Obligation: Inquiries from third parties will be addressed as appropriate in the investigative process. An affiliate or partner of the College (such as a high school or clinical site) seeking information regarding a complaint should contact the office responsible for administering the agreement with that affiliate or partner, and information will be provided as appropriate under this procedure. If the Respondent or Complainant is a dual-enrolled student, the College reserves the right to notify the student’s high school.
   2. Action by, Reporting to, and Adherence to Other Authorities: The College may enforce the Academic Integrity requirement regardless of whether any other authority has instituted any proceedings or taken any action in relation to the alleged violation. In other words, the College may impose consequences for violating its Academic Integrity requirement regardless of whether any other authority acts under any other applicable local, state, or federal law. (For example, even if an action or omissions is not actionable by Campus Safety & Security, the College may act under this policy.) Conversely, when in the best interest of the College, the College may postpone action or take interim or temporary action if another authority is addressing alleged conduct that is in violation of the Academic Integrity requirement. The College may also refer allegations to appropriate or additional authorities as required by law. (For example, even if an action or omission is actionable under this policy, the College may choose or be required to refer the matter to Campus Safety & Security, Collegiate High School, or the Title IX Officer.)
3. Delivery of Notices: When information must be delivered to a student, it will be to the student’s institutional e-mail address.
4. Time Limit for Beginning Academic Integrity Procedures: Academic Integrity procedures may begin up to one calendar year after the date of the alleged violation. Generally, the College will strive to begin conduct procedures, if any, within 60 days of receiving a complaint. Either limit may be extended or waived when required by federal or state law or other written College policy or procedure or to protect the health, safety, or well-being of the student or other College student, personnel, or operations.
5. Rights of Students: In addition to the protections set out elsewhere in this section, the student will be provided the following protections:
   1. The right to a presumption that no violation occurred.
   2. The College has the burden to prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that a violation has taken place. Preponderance of the evidence means that the relevant information presented supports the finding that it is more likely than not that the Respondent violated of the Student Code of Conduct.
   3. The right to an impartial Review Panel, to address the alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
6. Accommodations: If a student requires a medical accommodation based on a disability to participate in the Academic Integrity review process, the College will cooperate with the Accommodations Resource Center to find resources to permit the student to participate fully. Separate from an accommodation for disability, the reviewer or Review Panel may make reasonable adjustments or introduce support measures to address concerns for the personal safety or well-being of the student or any witness during the proceeding by providing separate facilities; by using, when available and feasible, a visual screen; or by permitting participation by telephone, videophone, closed circuit television, video conferencing, videotape, audio tape, written statement, or other means, where and as determined in the sole judgment of the reviewer or Review Panel to be appropriate.
7. Instructor Review: The initial reviewer is the instructor in the course in which the alleged violation occurred. The instructor will notify the student in a timely manner of the alleged acts(s) of academic dishonesty and where to find this procedure within the Student Handbook. If necessary, the instructor review may be immediately escalated to be performed by the Chair or Director; for example, without limitation, this may occur if the instructor no longer teaches at the College. The student will be offered the opportunity to explain the conduct in question and provide the instructor with a detailed written explanation if the student chooses to do so. The instructor and student may meet to discuss the complaint.
   1. Investigation: The instructor will gather facts, evidence, and statements from individuals involved in the complaint and make an initial determination of whether there is evidence to support the complaint. The instructor will disclose relevant information to the student.
   2. Insufficient Evidence: If the instructor finds that there is insufficient evidence that a violation of the Academic Integrity requirement occurred, the complaint will be closed without further action and the student will be informed in writing by the instructor. Insufficient evidence means that the instructor, equipped with the evidence and Academic Integrity Procedure, could not reasonably review the evidence and determine that it is more likely than not that a violation occurred. The instructor may refer the student and any other individuals involved to support resources.
      1. False Complaints: If the instructor determines that false information has been provided through the course of investigating a complaint, the individual providing false information may be subject to disciplinary action.
   3. Voluntary Resolution: If the student agrees that the behavior in question took place and does not dispute that the behavior violated the Academic Integrity requirement, the instructor will notify the student of any Level A consequence imposed. In this case, the complaint is voluntarily resolved, will be closed, and cannot be appealed.
   4. Consequence Imposed: If the student disputes that they have violated the Academic Integrity requirement, the instructor will nevertheless consider all evidence, determine whether the violation occurred, and deliver a decision to the student in writing that states the Level A consequence imposed.
      1. Appeal to Chair or Program Director: The student may inform the instructor in writing within five days of receipt of the decision that the student is choosing to seek further review on the basis that the instructor failed to follow applicable policy and procedure, or the instructor did not consider relevant facts that would change the decision. In that case, the instructor will refer the matter for Chair or Program Director Review.
      2. Level B or C Consequence: If the instructor completes their review and believes that a Level B or C consequence is necessary, the instructor will recommend that consequence in their written decision to the student and immediately refer the matter for Chair or Program Director review. The Level B consequence will take effect at the time of the instructor delivering the decision in writing.
   5. Additional Instructor Review Guidelines: The instructor will ensure that a record of the complaint and resolution are available in writing, such as minutes of any meeting are taken that state attendees, topics covered, and any resolution reached. The instructor may request any College staff or agent to sit in on a meeting, other than those who may be required to review the complaint in further steps. The instructor or student may request further informal meetings to continue resolving the matter, as needed, but additional meetings may not be used to delay further steps.
   6. Failure to Attend: Failure of the student to meet with the instructor within 10 days of a request for a preliminary meeting will not prevent the process of collecting information or the decision to move forward with further steps under this procedure.
8. Chair or Program Director Review: If the complaint is appealed or referred to the Chair or Program Director, they will promptly confirm that the student has knowledge of this procedure and review the basis for appeal or referral and the written record to date. The goal of this review is to ensure that the instructor followed applicable policy and procedure; took relevant facts into account; and selected a consequence, if any, that is tailored to the offense. The Chair or Director may accomplish this through written notices to the individuals involved or a meeting with the student and, as appropriate, the instructor.
   1. Voluntary Resolution: If possible, the Chair or Director will attempt to reach agreement with the student regarding the basis of their request for further review or regarding the severity of the consequence. If agreement is reached, the Chair or Director will deliver to the student in writing a record of how the complaint has been resolved. Likewise, if the Chair or Director completes their review and concludes that the instructor decision was made in error, the Chair or Director may reverse the decision and close the complaint. In this case, the complaint is closed and cannot be appealed.
   2. Instructor Decision Upheld:
      1. Level A: After reviewing the record of the matter and taking any appropriate steps toward voluntary resolution, if the Chair or Director upholds the instructor’s decision with a Level A consequence, the Chair or Director will notify the student of the decision in writing. In this case, the complaint is closed and cannot be appealed.
      2. Level B or C: After reviewing the record of the matter and taking any appropriate steps toward voluntary resolution, if the Chair or Director upholds the instructor’s decision with a Level B or C consequence (or personally recommends a Level B or C consequence), the Chair or Director will notify the student of the decision in writing. For a Level B consequence, the student may request an Academic Integrity Review within 5 days of receiving the written decision.  A Level B consequence may be put into effect or, if instituted at the instructor level, will remain in effect in accordance with that decision. A recommendation by the Chair or Director for a Level C consequence will automatically initiate an Academic Integrity Review Panel.
   3. Additional Chair or Program Director Review Guidelines: The Chair or Program Director will ensure that a record of the review and resolution are available in writing, such as minutes of any meeting are taken that state attendees, topics covered, and any resolution reached. The Chair or Program Director may request any College staff or agent to sit in on any meeting, other than those who may be required to review the complaint in further steps. The Chair or Program Director or student may request further conferences to continue reaching a resolution, as needed, but additional review may not be used to delay further steps.
   4. Failure to Attend: Failure of the student to meet with the Chair or Program Director within 10 days of a request for a meeting will not prevent the process of collecting information or the decision to move forward with further steps under this procedure.
9. Assignment of Academic Integrity Review Panel: If a student requests an Academic Integrity Review or if the Chair or Program Director recommends a Level C consequence, the Vice President of Academic Affairs will assign a Review Panel, which will have the authority to resolve the complaint.
   1. Member of Review Panel: The Review Panel will consist of three members who are impartial and have not otherwise participated in the complaint. The makeup of the review panel will, to the extent such individuals are available, (1) the Dean of the department (who will serve as Chair of the panel); (2) an instructor; and (3) either a student or non-instructor staff member (if none are available, an instructor from a different department may be substituted). To be eligible to sit on a Review Panel, the individuals must have completed College-prescribed training.
   2. Notice of Academic Integrity Review: The Chair will notify the student that an Academic Integrity Review will be held. At least 5 days before the first meeting of the Academic Integrity Review, the Chair must provide the student with a listing of any known witnesses that have provided, or will provide, information against the student and any known information relating to the allegation, including inculpatory and exculpatory information.
   3. Scope of Review: The Review Panel is tasked with reviewing the record to date and conducting any questioning of witnesses or presentation of relevant information by the student. If it is apparent that relevant evidence is missing from the record, the Chair may seek out that information to include in the record. The Chair will conduct the Academic Integrity Review.
      1. Attendance: The student shall be allowed to attend the entire portion of the Academic Integrity Review at which information is received. Admission of any other person to the proceeding shall be at the discretion of the Chair. If a student, with notice, does not attend the Academic Integrity Review, the information in support of the charges may be presented and considered even if the student is not present.
      2. Proceeding: The Chair will set the schedule and agenda for the Academic Integrity Review. Generally, the proceeding will include the Chair stating the allegations that have led to the proceeding, an opportunity for the student to present explanations and reasons for a preferred resolution, and the opportunity to question witnesses. All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the Review Panel.
         1. Presenting Information and Witnesses: The Chair may arrange for witnesses to present relevant information during the proceeding. The Respondent must submit witnesses they intend to request to present relevant information to the Chair at least 3 days prior to the proceeding. Witnesses may be asked to provide information to and answer questions from the Review Panel and student.
         2. Relevant Information: Relevant records, exhibits, and written statements may be accepted as inculpatory or exculpatory information (i.e., information or evidence that tends to prove and disprove the allegation) for consideration by the Administrator. Each party must make every effort to deliver any relevant information to the Chair at least 3 days prior to the proceeding. Unless a party was prevented from accessing relevant information due to factors beyond that party’s control, the Review Panel will not consider any information, including relevant information, submitted after the Academic Integrity Review.
      3. Record: The Chair must ensure that a member of College staff is present to take minutes.
      4. Determination: After the Academic Integrity Review, the Review Panel will confer. The Review Panel shall determine whether, by a preponderance of the evidence, the Respondent has violated each section of the Academic Integrity requirement that the Respondent is charged with violating. The Chair shall assign the task of drafting the determination to themselves or another Review Panel member; each Review Panel member will be afforded the opportunity to make comments and edits. The determination must include a summary of the complaint; the Review Panel’s reasoning; the consequence (if any); and directions regarding how to appeal the decision. The Chair shall deliver the determination to the Respondent in writing on or before 15 days after the Review Panel conference.
10. Appeal: The student may appeal the determination only as stated in this section. An appeal of the determination is made to the Vice President of Academic Affairs, who must hear the appeal and render a final decision. The Vice President of Academic Affairs may not have directly participated in any other proceeding related to the charged violation, except appointing the Review Panel. The Vice President of Academic Affairs is the “Appeal Reviewer.”
    1. Time Limit: The student must appeal on or before 5 days after receiving the Review Panel’s determination, using the contact information provided in the determination. Untimely appeals will not be considered; the student will be notified in writing if their appeal is untimely.
    2. Appeal Process: The student will state the specific reason for their appeal in writing, using the basis for appeal from this procedure. The Appeal Reviewer may request a meeting to hear the student’s argument and ask questions; in this case, minutes should be taken by a College staff member.
    3. Record for Appeal: The Appeal Reviewer will conduct the appeal using solely the appeal document, the determination, the Academic Integrity Review record, the record of preceding meetings under this procedure, and (if requested) the student’s verbal argument.
    4. Basis for Appeal: The Appeal Reviewer may review the record for appeal for the following:
       1. To determine whether the Academic Integrity Review was conducted fairly considering the complaint and information presented, and in conformity with prescribed procedures, giving the student a reasonable opportunity to prepare and to present a response to those allegations. Deviations from designated procedures will not be a basis for sustaining an appeal unless the deviation significantly prejudiced the results.
       2. To determine whether the decision reached regarding the student was based on substantial information (that is, whether there were facts in the case that, if believed by the fact finder, were sufficient to establish that a violation of the Academic Integrity requirement occurred).
       3. To determine whether the consequence(s) imposed were tailored to the violation of the Academic Integrity requirement which the student was found to have committed.
       4. To consider whether the student was prevented by factors beyond their control from accessing relevant information that is sufficient to alter the decision that was not brought out in the Academic Integrity Review.
    5. Appeal Results: The Appeal Reviewer will deliver the result on or before 15 days after the record is complete (either after receipt of the appeal or after requested argument).
    6. Results of Appeal:
       1. The Appeal Reviewer’s decision will include a summary of the appeal and the basis for the Appeal Reviewer’s decision.
       2. If an appeal is upheld by the Appeal Reviewer due to new information being submitted (10.d.iv.), the Appeal Reviewer will send the complaint back to the Review Panel to allow review of the determination with the new, relevant information and notify the parties of that decision in writing. If due to extenuating circumstances, a member of the Review Panel is unavailable for this process, the Appeal Reviewer will assign a new member to accommodate the circumstances. The result of the review will be submitted to the Appeal Reviewer in writing for a final determination.
       3. If any appeal is upheld for any other bases of appeal listed in 10.d., the Appeal Reviewer will deliver the decision in writing to the student and state final consequences, or other necessary steps based on the decision.
    7. Finality: The Appeal Reviewer’s decision is final, except in cases of expulsion or other permanent dismissal from the College. If a student has been expelled or permanently dismissed from the College, the student may make a final appeal to the College President. In this case, the student must appeal to the President within 5 days of receiving the Appeal Reviewer’s final decision, and the President will review the Record of Appeal described above to ensure that the student was afforded the rights described in this procedure and that no overriding fact in the Record of Appeal was ignored throughout the Student Code of Conduct Procedure. The President will consider the Record of Appeal and promptly deliver a determination to the student in writing.
    8. Recordkeeping: The College will maintain the record of the Academic Integrity complaint, proceedings, and resolution for at least as long as is required by state law for the relevant type of record. While in possession of the record, the College shall make, preserve, and have available for copying upon request of the student an accurate and complete record of the complaint record as stated in this procedure.
11. Additional Rights and Responsibilities
    1. Northwest Florida State College Campus Safety & Security: All Northwest Florida State College-employed police officers have the authority to control access to and to patrol College premises. Campus Safety & Security may have an obligation to investigate alleged Academic Integrity violations as a criminal matter. Campus Safety & Security will refer matters to this procedure as a complaint when this procedure is implicated.
    2. Inapplicable Rules: Rules that are applied in local, state, or federal civil or criminal proceedings are not applicable to the Northwest Florida State College Academic Integrity requirement. For example, and without limitation, such inapplicable rules include those of process, procedure, and evidence that are applied in criminal or civil court.
    3. College Legal Counsel: The College reserves the right to have counsel in attendance or on notice of any meeting under the Academic Integrity procedure.
    4. Withdrawing to Avoid Academic Integrity Proceeding: If a student withdraws to avoid an Academic Integrity proceeding, the College may continue to follow this procedure to reach a resolution of the complaint.

IV. Academic Integrity Consequences

The College may impose the following consequences either singly or in combination. Failure to adhere to the consequences imposed may be cause for further consequences.

Level A Consequences

Level A consequences may be imposed by the instructor or the Chair or Program Director.

1. Warning: The appropriate College officials may notify the student that continuation or repetition of specified conduct may be cause for other disciplinary action.
2. Reprimand: A written notice may be given to any student whose conduct violates any part of these regulations. Such a reprimand does not restrict the student in any way but does have important consequences. It signifies that they are in effect being given another chance to conduct themselves as a proper member of the College community and that any further violation may result in more serious consequences.
3. Restitution: A student who has committed an offense against property may be required to reimburse the College or other owner for damage to or misappropriation of such property. Any such payment in restitution shall be limited to cost of repair or placement.
4. Temporary Classroom Removal: The instructor has the primary responsibility for control over classroom behavior and maintenance of academic integrity and can order any student engaged in disruptive conduct or conduct that violates the general rules and regulations of the College to be temporarily removed from the classroom and any class sessions.
5. Volunteering or Assignment: Related to the behavior violating the Academic Integrity requirement, the Instructor, Chair, or Program Director may assign volunteer work on College premises to support the College’s mission or assign work product to the student. Failure to complete such volunteering or other assignment may be cause for further consequences.
6. Invalidation of Credit and Grade Reductions: The consequence may be reduction of grade or denial of academic credit.
7. Interim Removal from Practical Training Experience: The applicable College staff member may temporarily remove the student from any practical training experience if the alleged conduct in places implicates that workplace.

Level B Consequences

Level B consequences may be recommended by the instructor to the Chair or Program Director, and such imposed consequence will take effect at the time of referral to the Chair or Program Director for review and will remain in place until the resolution of the complaint is final. Level B consequences may likewise be required by the Chair or Program Director after a review by the Chair or Program Director.

1. Suspension: The instructor may, in consultation with the Chair or Program Director or Dean, temporarily suspend the student for the duration of the Academic Integrity proceeding or for a stated period thereafter as a consequence. The reasons for such interim suspension may be outlined in the Program Handbook and must be consistent with this procedure. If a student is suspended, he or she will be separated from the College for a stated period and provided with the conditions of readmission to the College.
2. Disciplinary Probation: Continued enrollment of a student on probation may be conditioned upon or adherence to the Academic Integrity requirement. Any student placed on probation will be notified of the terms and length in writing. Probation may include restrictions upon the extracurricular activities of a student. Any conduct in violation of the Academic Integrity requirements while on probationary status may result in the imposition of a more serious disciplinary action.

Level C Consequences

Level C consequences may only be imposed after an Academic Integrity Review.

1. Invalidation of Credit or of Degree Based on Credit: The consequence may be invalidation of the college degree issued based on the academic credit earned in violation of the Academic Integrity requirement.
2. Program Dismissal: The dismissal of a student from participation in a program for a stated period.
3. College Dismissal: The dismissal of a student from registration at the College for a stated period.
4. Expulsion: Permanent removal and exclusion from the College, College controlled facilities, programs, events, and activities.

Programmatic Requirements

Some programs may be required to adhere to additional state, federal, or organizational and accrediting agency guidelines and regulations regarding disciplinary consequences and proceedings. The students in these programs will be made aware of the additional requirements and must follow those requirements as well. Those requirements may provide that, if the student’s conduct does not meet the requirements, the student may not continue in the program or the student’s behavior must be reported to regulatory authorities.
 

Student Code of Conduct

College students are members of the College’s academic, local, state, and national communities and are therefore expected to conduct themselves as law-abiding members of each community. Admission to the College carries with it privileges and imparts responsibilities apart from those rights and duties enjoyed by non-students. In recognition of the special relationship that exists between the College and the community that it serves, the District Board of Trustees of Northwest Florida State College has authorized the President of the College to take such action that may be necessary to maintain campus safety and preserve the integrity of the College and its educational environment.

Under this authority and as directed by Florida Statutes, the College has developed the following Student Code of Conduct, which governs student conduct on campus. When a student fails to abide by the Student Code of Conduct, disciplinary action may be taken, up to and including expulsion.

Some academic programs may impose additional standards that provided by law, professional regulatory bodies, advisory committees, national standards, accreditation standards, or other standards applicable to those programs, and those programs may provide for further program-specific discipline for student conduct. Such programs are authorized to develop their respective standards in addition to those found in this Code of Conduct. Students in these programs will be provided notice of such program standards.

I. Definitions

In addition to the general definitions for the Collected Grievance Procedures, these specific definitions apply to the Student Code of Conduct.

1. “Administrator” means an employee impartial to the alleged violation and who is appointed by the Chief Student Success Officer to address a complaint. Such Administrator will generally be a Director or Executive Director reporting to the Chief Student Success Officer or, as needed by the College, may be an Academic Affairs Chair and Director or other designated College employee classified as Administrative I or above.
2. “Complainant” means the person filing the complaint.
3. “Respondent” means the student(s) or student organization(s) that have been accused of violating the Code of Conduct.

II. Prohibited Conduct

College disciplinary measures may be imposed for conduct that adversely affects the College’s pursuit of its educational objectives, that violates or shows a disregard for the rights of other members of the academic community, or that endangers any property or person at the College. Individual, group, or organizational misconduct, which is subject to disciplinary consequences, includes but is not limited to the following offenses:

1. Academic offenses: Refer to the Academic Integrity Procedure.
2. Alcoholic beverages: The unauthorized use or possession of alcoholic beverages on campus or at any College-sponsored event, except College events where the College provides alcoholic beverages.
3. Bullying: Systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on another person. Bullying is further defined as unwanted and repeated written, verbal, or physical behavior, including any threatening, insulting, or dehumanizing gesture by a student that is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment, cause discomfort or humiliation, or unreasonably interfere with an individual’s educational experience.
   1. Bullying includes behavior such as teasing; social exclusion; threat; intimidation; stalking; physical violence; theft; sexual, religious, or racial harassment; public or private humiliation; and/or destruction of property.
   2. Cyberbullying: Bullying, using technology or any electronic communication, includes, but is not limited to, transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in photo-optical systems, email, internet, webpages, instant messages, facsimile, social networking and/or phone. Cyberbullying is created by the transmission of electronic content, which is communicated and posted to more than one person that interferes with the orderly operation of the educational environment.
4. Dangerous conduct: Any conduct that constitutes a danger to any person’s health, safety, or personal well-being, including any physical or immediate threat to others.
5. Dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking: A type of abuse or violence where there is a pattern of controlling behaviors that is used to establish power over a partner to control actions and activities. One can experience trauma where abusive relationships can increase in danger, or dangerous situations where students would not feel safe or secure. Actions include disrespectful and hurtful behaviors that one partner may use against another partner, causing a partner physically harm, stalking, threatening, isolating, gesturing and/or demanding unwanted sex practices.
6. Disorderly conduct or language: Any individual or group behavior or language which is abusive, obscene, lewd, indecent, violent, excessively noisy, disorderly, or which unreasonably disturbs other groups or individuals.
7. Drugs: The unlawful possession or use of any drug or controlled substance, including any stimulant, depressant, narcotic, hallucinogenic drug or substance, marijuana, or sale or distribution of any such drug or controlled substance on college owned or controlled property or at any college sponsored activity.
8. Explosives, fireworks, and flammable materials: The unauthorized possession, ignition, or detonation of any object or article, that would cause damage by fire or other means to persons or property.
9. Failure to cooperate with College officials: Failure to comply with directions of College officials acting in the performance of their duties.
10. Financial misconduct: Conduct, including but not limited to, knowingly passing forms of payment such as a worthless check, debit, credit card, or money order in payment to the College community.
11. Firearms/Weapons: Possession, other than legally and securely stored in your vehicle, or use of firearms or other dangerous weapons at any College location or activity except by authorized law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties is prohibited behavior and will subject the offender to disciplinary procedures as well as appropriate action by civil authorities.
12. Gambling: Gambling in any form.
13. Harassment: Any act of harassment by an individual or group against a student, college employee, campus group, visitor, or guest. Harassment shall include, but not be limited to, insults, heckling, verbal abuse, threats of physical abuse, unwanted suggestions of a sexual nature, repeated teasing or annoyance of another, or other actions intended to disturb others.
14. Hazing: Any intentional or reckless act, on or off the property of the College, by students acting alone, or with others, involving any action which is directed against any other students that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student, or which induces or coerces a student to endanger such student’s mental or physical health or safety. Hazing is defined as those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization.
15. Inappropriate clothing: Nudity is prohibited. Clothing that decreases physical safety in the classroom or learning environment or that violates your Program Handbook or syllabus for a particular course is prohibited; such a violation may also violate the Academic Integrity requirement.
16. Misuse of documents or identification cards: Any forgery, alteration of, or unauthorized use of College documents, forms, records, or identification cards including information collected in connection with a student’s admission, enrollment, financial transactions, or status in the College.
17. Obstruction of or interference with College activities or facilities: Any intentional interference with or obstruction of any College activity, program, event, or facilities including the following:
    1. Unauthorized occupancy of the College, College controlled facilities, or blockage of access to or from such facilities.
    2. Interference with the right of way of any College staff or other authorized person to gain access to the College or College controlled activity, program, event, or facilities.
    3. Obstruction or delay of a campus security officer, fire/rescue service, or any College official in the performance of his/her duty.
    4. Acts of misuse, vandalism, malicious or unwarranted damage or destruction, defacing, disfiguring, or unauthorized use of property belonging to the College including but not limited to fire alarms, fire equipment, elevators, telephones, College keys, library materials, and/or safety devices; and any such act against a member or guest of the College.
    5. Trespass (to enter or remain in a place that the student is not authorized to be), which includes failure to leave after instructed to do so by Northwest Florida State College Campus Safety & Security Officer(s) or other authorized Northwest Florida State College employee.
18. Performances Unsuitable for Minors: Any show, exhibition, or other presentation in front of a live audience which, in whole or in part, depicts or simulates nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or specific sexual activities as those terms are defined in section 847.001, Florida Statutes, lewd conduct, or the lewd exposure of prosthetic or imitation genitals or breasts when it: predominantly appeals to a prurient, shameful, or morbid interest; is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community of this state as a whole with respect to what is suitable material or conduct for the age of the child present; and taken as a whole, is without serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for the age of the child present. Any violation of section 827.11, Florida Statutes, or related law is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Because the College is an open access institution operating on public property that is available to all ages, including minors, no adult live performances prohibited by law are permitted by students, student organizations, or any performer, vendor, or other guest of the College at any time on any College property or College-sanctioned event. 
19. Theft: Unauthorized possession or sale of College property
20. Unauthorized use of a restroom/changing room: Willfully entering and refusing to vacate a restroom or changing facility designated for the opposite sex after a request to do so from any administrative, instructional, security or law enforcement personnel or any other action or omission related to restroom/changing room use that violates section 553.865, Florida Statutes. 
21. Unacceptable conduct at a College hearing or meeting: Any conduct at any College hearing or meeting involving contemptuous, disrespectful, or disorderly behavior or presenting false testimony or other evidence.
22. Violation of Other Secondary or Postsecondary Institution’s Code of Conduct: Any dual enrollment student violating their home institution’s code of conduct.
23. Violations of rules and regulations: Any violation of the rules and regulations of the College as published in an official College publication, including the intentional failure to perform any required action or the intentional performance of any prohibited action.
24. Violations of state or federal laws: Any violation of or failure to obey state or federal laws, regulations, or ordinances proscribing or prescribing conduct or establishing offenses.
25. Attempt or aiding and abetting the commission of offenses: Any attempt to commit any of the foregoing offenses or the aiding and abetting of the commission of any of the foregoing offenses. An “attempt” to commit any of the prohibited actions is the intention to commit an offense coupled with the taking of some action toward its commission.

III. Student Code of Conduct Procedure

At all times during a Student Code of Conduct procedure, all involved individuals will conduct themselves with professionalism and courtesy. When a student or student organization (the “Respondent”) has allegedly violated the Student Code of Conduct, the following procedures apply.

1. Support Measures and Resolution with Complaint: The College encourages instructors, staff, and students to make every reasonable effort to resolve disputes and behavior issues outside of the Student Code of Conduct complaint process in all appropriate cases. The College strives to make many avenues of support available. Student Support Resources can be found at the beginning of the Collected Grievance Procedures.
2. Who May File a Complaint?: Any instructor, staff, student, or guest at a College location may file a complaint against a student or student organization for violation of the Student Code of Conduct and should do so as soon as possible after the conduct in question occurs. Submit a complaint here.
   1. Responsible Employees: If a College employee with supervisory or managerial authority is notified of an alleged Student Code of Conduct violation that creates a safety concern, the employee has an obligation to personally file the complaint. The College may proceed with such complaint regardless of whether the person who notified the responsible employee chooses to participate.
   2. Inquiries Regarding Complaint Status: When the College has received a complaint, inquiries about the status of the complaint will be addressed as appropriate in the investigative process. An affiliate or partner of the College (such as a high school or clinical site) seeking information regarding a complaint should contact the office responsible for administering the agreement with that affiliate or partner, and information will be provided as appropriate under this procedure. If the Respondent or Complainant is a dual-enrolled student, the College reserves the right to notify the student’s high school.
   3. Complaint Referred by College Department: Northwest Florida State College Campus Safety & Security will refer alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct for procedures by filing a complaint. The College prefers to resolve student conduct matters through this procedure, but Campus Safety & Security may also have an independent obligation to investigate alleged criminal conduct. Likewise, Human Resources and the Title IX Officer may refer appropriate complaints to the Student Code of Conduct process, and complaints under this procedure may be referred to Human Resources or the Title IX Officer as well.
   4. Action by Other Authorities: The College may enforce the Code of Conduct requirement regardless of whether any other authority has instituted any proceedings or taken any action in relation to the alleged violation. In other words, the College may impose consequences for violating its Code of Conduct requirement regardless of whether any other authority acts under any other applicable local, state, or federal law. (For example, even if an action or omissions is not actionable by Campus Safety & Security, the College may act under this policy.) Conversely, when in the best interest of the College, the College may postpone action or take interim or temporary action if another authority is addressing alleged conduct that is in violation of the Code of Conduct requirement. The College may also refer allegations to appropriate or additional authorities as required by law. (For example, even if an action or omission is actionable under this policy, the College may choose or be required to refer the matter to Campus Safety & Security, Collegiate High School, or the Title IX Officer.)
3. Delivery of Notices: When information must be delivered to a party, it will be delivered as follows:
   1. If the Respondent is 18 years of age or older, notice will be delivered to the Respondent’s institutional e-mail address. If the Respondent is under 18 years of age, notice will be delivered to the Respondent’s institutional e-mail address and to the Respondent’s parent. If the Respondent is a student organization, notice will be delivered to the student organization’s e-mail address.
   2. If the Complainant is a student, any necessary notice will be delivered to the Complainant’s institutional e-mail address. If the Complainant is a student organization, any necessary notice will be delivered to the student organization’s e-mail address. If the Complainant is an employee, any necessary notice will be delivered to the Complainant’s institutional email address. If the Complainant is a visitor, and the College is actively seeking their participation in the complaint, any necessary notice will be delivered to the Complainant’s e-mail address as designated in the complaint.
4. Time Limit for Beginning Complaint Procedures: Conduct procedures may begin up to one calendar year after the date of the alleged violation; generally, the College will strive to begin conduct procedures, if any, within 60 days of receiving a complaint. Either limit may be extended or waived when required by federal or state law or other written College policy or procedure or to protect the health, safety, or well-being of the student, student organization, or other College student, personnel, or operations.
5. Referral to an Administrator: After receiving a complaint, the Chief Student Success Officer will appoint an Administrator, who will have the authority to resolve the complaint within the terms of this procedure. The Administrator shall consider all evidence, determine the facts, render a decision, and impose consequences as necessary.
6. Rights of Students and Student Organizations: In addition to any other protections set out elsewhere in this section, the Respondent will be provided the following protections:
   1. The College will presume that no violation occurred;
   2. The College has the burden to prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that a violation has taken place. Preponderance of the evidence means that the relevant information presented supports the finding that it is more likely than not that the Respondent violated of the Student Code of Conduct;
   3. The right to an impartial hearing officer, which is the Administrator or the Review Panel, to address the alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct;
   4. The right against self-incrimination and the right to remain silent. If the Respondent chooses to remain silent, the College cannot use that silence against the Respondent;
   5. The right to present relevant information and question witnesses; and
   6. The right to have an advisor, advocate, or legal representative, at the Respondent’s own expense, present at any proceeding, whether formal or informal (an “Advisor”).
      1. The Complainant may also be assisted by an Advisor of their choice, at their own expense.
      2. The Advisor may directly participate in all aspects of the proceeding, including the presentation of relevant information and questioning of witnesses.
      3. The Advisor may not serve in any other role, including as an Administrator (or other investigator, decider of fact, hearing officer, or member of any committee or panel reviewing the charge or any appeal).
      4. The Complainant or Respondent remains responsible for all communication sent from the College and the Administrator. If the Complainant or the Respondent intend to have an attorney serve as the Advisor, they must notify the Administrator no later than 3 days prior to the first meeting at which the attorney-Advisor will be present.
7. Accommodations: If a student requires a medical accommodation based on a disability, the College will cooperate with the Accommodations Resource Center to find resources to permit the student to participate in the Disciplinary Proceeding fully. Separate from an accommodation for disability, the College may make reasonable adjustments or introduce support measures to address concerns for the personal safety or well-being of the Complainant, Respondent, or witness during the proceeding by providing separate facilities; by using, when available and feasible, a visual screen; or by permitting participation by telephone, videophone, closed circuit television, video conferencing, videotape, audio tape, written statement, or other means, where and as determined in the sole judgment of the Administrator to be appropriate.
8. Notice of the Complaint: After assignment, the Administrator will provide the Respondent with timely written notice of the alleged violation. The written notice will be delivered to the Respondent at least 7 days prior to the first meeting of the Disciplinary Proceeding. The written notice will include the allegations to be investigated, a citation to the specific provision or provisions of the Student Code of Conduct at issue, the process to be used in determining whether a violation has occurred and associated rights, and the date, time, and location of the Disciplinary Proceeding.
   1. Respondent Request for Informal Resolution Conference: A Respondent may request an earlier Informal Resolution Conference in accordance with subsection (11).
   2. Multiple Respondents: When a complaint involves more than one Respondent or when multiple complaints involve the same Respondent, the Administrator, in their discretion, may conduct the proceeding concerning each Respondent or complaint either separately or jointly.
9. Investigation: The Administrator will gather facts, evidence, and statements from individuals involved in the complaint and make an initial determination of (1) whether there is insufficient evidence to support the complaint or (2) to continue to informal or formal resolution.
10. Insufficient Evidence: If the Administrator finds that there is insufficient evidence to continue the conduct proceeding, the complaint will be closed without further action and the Respondent will be informed in writing by the Administrator. Insufficient evidence means that a person equipped with the evidence and Student Code of Conduct could not reasonably review the evidence and determine that it is more likely than not that a violation occurred. The Administrator may refer Complainant, Respondent, and any other individuals involved to support resources.
    1. False Complaints: If the Administrator determines that false information was provided in a complaint, the Complainant may be subject to disciplinary proceedings under the appropriate policies (for instance, Student Code of Conduct for students or Human Resources processes for employees).
11. Resolution Conference: In many cases, if the Administrator finds that sufficient evidence exists to continue with the conduct proceeding, the Administrator may invite the Respondent to participate in informal resolution. The Administrator will meet with the Respondent to discuss the complaint and design a resolution of the issues. The Respondent will be offered the opportunity to explain the conduct in question and provide the Administrator with a detailed written explanation if the Respondent chooses to do so. The Administrator will write the resolution plan and distribute it to the Respondent for signature to close the matter if a resolution can be reached and may impose Level One consequences.
    1. Additional Conference Guidelines: The Administrator will remind the Respondent of their rights under the Student Code of Conduct. The conference will not be recorded, but the Administrator will ensure that minutes of the conference are taken that state attendees, topics covered, and any resolution reached. The Administrator may request any College staff or agent to sit in on the conference, other than those who may be required to review the complaint in further steps. The Administrator or Respondent may request further informal conferences to continue the resolution plan, as needed, but additional informal conferences may not be used to delay a Disciplinary Proceeding.
    2. Failure to Attend: Failure of the Respondent to meet with the Administrator within 10 days of a request for an Informal Resolution Conference will not prevent the process of collecting information or the decision to move forward with a Disciplinary Proceeding.
    3. Appeal: If a resolution is reached with no consequences or Level One consequences only, the complaint is closed, and the matter cannot move forward to a Disciplinary Proceeding or appeal.
12. Disciplinary Proceeding: If the alleged violation cannot be or is not proper to be resolved through a Resolution Conference (such as if the Respondent declines to participate in a resolution plan or if a Level Two or Three consequence is recommended), the Administrator will notify the Respondent and the Chief Student Success Officer that a Disciplinary Proceeding will be held.
    1. Appointment of the Disciplinary Review Panel: Upon notice, the Chief Student Success Officer will assign two employees in addition to the Administrator to the Disciplinary Review Panel, which will have the authority to resolve the complaint within the terms of this procedure. The Administrator will act as Chair of the Review Panel. The Review Panel shall consider all evidence, determine the facts, render a decision, and impose consequences as necessary. The Review Panel members will be impartial. The College will make assignments in the best interest of College operations and to ensure impartiality for the Review Panel. To be eligible to sit on a Review Panel, the individuals must have completed College-prescribed training.
    2. Any Further Investigation: Prior to providing notice to the Respondent, the Administrator will conduct any further investigation necessary and deliver the record of the proceeding to date to the Review Panel.
    3. Notice of Disciplinary Proceeding: At least 5 days before the first meeting of the Disciplinary Proceeding, the Administrator must provide the Respondent with a listing of all known witnesses that have provided, or will provide, information against the Respondent and all known information relating to the allegation, including inculpatory and exculpatory information.
    4. Attendance: The Disciplinary Proceeding normally shall be conducted in private. The Complainant, Respondent, and either party’s Advisor (if any) shall be allowed to attend the entire portion of the Disciplinary Proceeding at which information is received. Admission of any other person to the proceeding shall be at the discretion of the Review Panel Chair.
    5. Proceeding: The Administrator will set the schedule and agenda for the Disciplinary Proceeding. Generally, the proceeding with include the Administrator stating the Complainant’s allegations that have led to the proceeding, an opportunity for the Complainant and Respondent to present explanations and reasons for a preferred resolution, and the opportunity to question witnesses. All procedural questions are subject to the final decision of the Review Panel.
       1. Presenting Information and Witnesses: The Administrator may arrange for witnesses to present relevant information during the proceeding; the Complainant and the Respondent must submit a list of witnesses that they intend to request to present relevant information to the Review Panel at least 3 days prior to the proceeding. Witnesses may be asked to provide information to and answer questions from the Review Panel, Respondent, Complainant, and the parties’ respective Advisors (if any).
       2. Relevant Information: Relevant records, exhibits, and written statements may be accepted as inculpatory or exculpatory information (i.e., information or evidence that tends to prove and disprove the allegation) for consideration by the Review Panel. Each party must make every effort to deliver any relevant information to the Administrator at least 3 days prior to the proceeding. Unless a party was prevented from accessing relevant information due to factors beyond that party’s control, the Review Panel will not consider any information, including relevant information, submitted after the Disciplinary Proceeding.
    6. Record: The Administrator will ensure that a member of College staff is present to take minutes.
    7. Failure to Attend: If a Respondent, with notice, does not attend the Disciplinary Proceeding, the information in support of the charges may be presented and considered even if the Respondent is not present.
    8. Determination: After the Disciplinary Proceeding, the Review Panel will confer. The conference will be private. The Review Panel shall determine whether, by a preponderance of the evidence, the Respondent has violated each section of the Student Code of Conduct the Respondent is charged with violating. The Chair shall assign the task of drafting the determination to themselves or another Review Panel member; each Review Panel member will be afforded the opportunity to make comments and edits. The determination must include a summary of the complaint; the Review Panel’s reasoning; a statement of the consequences (if any); and directions regarding how to appeal the decision, including contact information for the Appeal Reviewer. The Respondent shall be notified of the determination in writing within 15 days after the conclusion of the Disciplinary Proceeding.
13. Appeal: The Respondent may appeal if the Review Panel determines that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct occurred. An appeal of the determination is made to the Chief Student Success Officer, who must hear the appeal and render a final decision. The Chief Student Success Officer may not have directly participated in any other proceeding related to the charged violation, except to assign the Administrator and Review Panel. The Chief Student Success Officer is the “Appeal Reviewer.”
    1. Bases for Appeal: The Appeal Reviewer will review:
       1. To determine whether the Disciplinary Proceeding was conducted fairly considering the complaint and information presented, and in conformity with prescribed procedures, giving the Complainant a reasonable opportunity to prepare and to present information that the Student Code of Conduct was violated, and giving the Respondent a reasonable opportunity to prepare and to present a response to those allegations. Deviations from designated procedures will not be a basis for sustaining an appeal unless the deviation significantly prejudiced the results.
       2. To determine whether the decision reached regarding the Respondent was based on substantial information (that is, whether there were facts in the case that, if believed by the fact finder, were sufficient to establish that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct occurred).
       3. To determine whether the consequence(s) imposed were tailored to the violation of the Student Code of Conduct which the Respondent was found to have committed.
       4. To consider whether the Respondent was prevented by factors beyond their control from accessing relevant information that is sufficient to alter the decision that was not brought out in the Disciplinary Proceeding.
    2. Time Limit: An appeal must be made on or before 5 days after receiving the Review Panel’s determination, using the contact information provided in the determination. Untimely appeals will not be considered; the appealing party will be notified in writing if their appeal is untimely.
    3. Appeal Process: The appealing party will state the specific reason for their appeal in writing, using the bases for appeal from this procedure. The Appeal Reviewer will permit the other party to submit a written response to the appeal on or before five days of receipt. The Appeal Reviewer may request to hear each party’s argument; in this case, minutes will be taken.
    4. Record for Appeal: The Appeal Reviewer will consider the appeal using solely the appeal document, any response, the determination, the Disciplinary Proceeding record, and (if requested) each party’s verbal argument.
    5. Appeal Results: The Appeal Reviewer will deliver the results of the appeal on or before 15 days after the record is complete (which will begin after the response, or, if the Appeal Review requests it, after argument). The Appeal Reviewer’s decision will include a summary of the appeal and the basis for the Appeal Reviewer’s decision.
       1. If an appeal is upheld by the Appeal Reviewer due to new information being submitted (13.a.iv.), the Appeal Reviewer will send the complaint back to the Review Panel to allow review of the determination with the new, relevant information and notify the parties of that decision in writing. If due to extenuating circumstances, a member of the Review Panel is unavailable for this process, the Appeal Reviewer may assign a new member to accommodate the circumstances. The result of the review will be submitted to the Appeal Reviewer in writing for a final review.
       2. If any appeal is upheld for any other bases of appeal listed in 13.a., the Appeal Reviewer will deliver the decision in writing to the Respondent and Complainant and state final consequences or other necessary steps based on the decision.
          1. The Appeal Reviewer may reduce, but not increase, the consequences assigned by the Review Panel, unless the safety of the Respondent or College community is actively at risk. If the Appeal Reviewer increases the consequences for any reason, that decision must be supported by substantial information.
    6. Finality: The Appeal Reviewer’s decision is final, except in cases of expulsion or other permanent dismissal from the College. If a student has been expelled or permanently dismissed from the College, the student may make a final appeal to the College President. In the case of expulsion or permanent dismissal, the student must appeal to the President within 5 days of receiving the Appeal Reviewer’s final decision, and the President will review the Record of Appeal described above to ensure that the student was afforded the rights described in this procedure and that no overriding fact in the Record of Appeal was ignored throughout the Student Code of Conduct Procedure. The President will consider the Record of Appeal and promptly deliver a determination to the student in writing.
14. Recordkeeping: The College will maintain the record of the Student Code of Conduct complaint, proceedings, and resolution for at least as long as is required by state law for the relevant type of record. While in possession of the record, the College shall make, preserve, and have available for copying upon request of the student an accurate and complete record of the complaint record as stated in this procedure.
15. Additional Rights and Responsibilities
    1. Northwest Florida State College Campus Safety & Security: All Northwest Florida State College-employed police officers have the authority to control access to and to patrol College premises. Campus Safety & Security may have an obligation to investigate alleged Code of Conduct violations as a criminal matter. The Administrator may request that Campus Safety & Security participate in any investigation or proceeding, as needed.
    2. Inapplicable Rules: Rules that are applied in local, state, or federal civil or criminal proceedings are not applicable to the Northwest Florida State College Student Code of Conduct. For example, and without limitation, such inapplicable rules include those of process, procedure, and evidence that are applied in criminal or civil court.
    3. College Legal Counsel: The College reserves the right to have counsel in attendance or on notice of any meeting under the Student Code of Conduct.
    4. Outside of Scope: Routine classroom management matters will generally be addressed by informal instructor intervention unless the conduct is repeated or severe enough that a complaint is filed under the Student Code of Conduct. Student failure to meet substantive course requirements is not a Student Code of Conduct matter. Student failure to meet the published requirements of a clinical placement, other applicable third-party standard, or other standard related to substantively completing their educational program is not a Student Code of Conduct matter; however, the College may choose to refer student behavior within a program, including off-site learning experiences to the Student Code of Conduct. A student grievance against the College is not a Student Code of Conduct matter.
    5. Withdrawing to Avoid Student Code of Conduct Proceeding: If a student withdraws to avoid a Student Code of Conduct proceeding, the College may continue to follow this procedure to reach a resolution of the complaint.

IV. Student Code of Conduct Consequences

The College may impose the following consequences either singly or in combination.

Failure to adhere to the consequences imposed may be cause for further consequences.

Level One Consequences

Level One consequences may be agreed upon by the Administrator and Respondent in a Resolution Plan through a Resolution Conference or imposed by the Review Panel following a Disciplinary Proceeding.

1. Warning: The appropriate College officials may notify the Respondent that continuation or repetition of specified conduct may be cause for other disciplinary action.
2. Reprimand: A written reprimand or censure may be given any Respondent or organization whose conduct violates any part of these regulations. Such a reprimand does not restrict the Respondent in any way but does have important consequences. It signifies that they are in effect being given another chance to conduct themselves as a proper member of the College community and that any further violation may result in penalties that are more serious.
3. Restitution: A Respondent who has committed an offense against property may be required to reimburse the College or other owner for damage to or misappropriation of such property. Any such payment in restitution shall be limited to cost of repair or placement.
4. Restrictions: Restrictions upon a Respondent privileges may be imposed for a period. These restrictions may include, for example, denial of the right to represent the College in any way, denial of use of facilities, parking privileges, participation in extracurricular activities, or restriction of organizational privileges.
5. Temporary Classroom Removal: Whether before, during, or after a Student Code of Conduct complaint, the instructor has the primary responsibility for control over classroom behavior and maintenance of academic integrity and can order any Respondent engaged in disruptive conduct or conduct that violates the general rules and regulations of the College to be temporarily removed from the classroom and any class sessions.
6. Volunteering or Assignment: Related to the behavior violating the Code of Conduct, the Administrator may assign volunteer work on College premises to support the College’s mission or assign work product to the Respondent.

Level Two Consequences

Level Two consequences may be recommended by the Administrator, and such imposed consequence will remain in place until the Disciplinary Proceeding has occurred and the resolution of the matter is final.

1. Suspension: Immediate, interim consequences, up to and including suspension, may be necessary in some cases to guarantee the safety and harmony of the College environment. To provide and protect a safe learning environment, the College reserves the right to invoke immediate consequences based upon the nature and seriousness of the offense. The interim consequences will be tailored to the alleged offense. The interim consequences will be followed by the Student Code of Conduct procedures. If a Respondent is suspended, he or she will be separated from the College for a stated period and provided with the conditions of readmission to the College.
2. Disciplinary Probation: Continued enrollment of a Respondent on probation may be conditioned upon or adherence to specified conditions. Any Respondent placed on probation will be notified of the terms and length in writing. Probation may include restrictions upon the extracurricular activities of a Respondent. Any conduct in violation of these regulations while on probationary status may result in the imposition of a more serious disciplinary action.

Level Three Consequences

Level Three consequences may be imposed by the Review Panel following a Disciplinary Proceeding.

1. Program Dismissal: The dismissal of a Respondent from participation in a program for a stated period.
2. College Dismissal: The dismissal of the Respondent from registration at the College for a stated period.
3. Expulsion: Permanent removal and exclusion from the College, College controlled facilities, programs, events, and activities.

Programmatic Requirements

Some programs may be required to adhere to additional state, federal, or organizational and accrediting agency guidelines and regulations regarding disciplinary consequences and proceedings. The students in these programs will be made aware of the additional requirements and must follow those requirements as well. Those requirements may provide that, if the student’s conduct does not meet the requirements, the student may not continue in the program or the student’s behavior must be reported to regulatory authorities.

Dual Enrollment Program Requirements

Dual enrollment students must have good attendance and discipline records to participate in the dual enrollment program. Dual enrollment students understand that if they violate any items in their high school’s code of conduct, NWFSC reserves the right to deny that student participation in dual enrollment. A few examples include:  

• When a dual enrollment student is placed on out-of-school suspension by their high school, the student will not be permitted to attend dual enrollment classes at NWFSC physical locations for the dates indicated in the suspension.
• Dual enrollment students are not permitted to enroll in, register for, or participate in College course(s) if they are currently subject to expulsion processes or have previously been expelled from a secondary school.  
• If a dual enrollment student has committed an act that constitutes a serious threat to any secondary or postsecondary school or student safety (aggravated battery; homicide; armed robbery; possession, use, or sale of any explosive; arson device; battery or aggravated; possession, use, or sale of narcotic or other controlled substance; possession, use, or sale of any firearm; battery on a teacher or other school personnel; sexual battery; victimization; false alarms, including but not limited to, pulling fire alarms) which results in a recommendation for expulsion, or placement in an alternative setting, by the high school, the student will immediately lose all privileges to participate in the dual enrollment program.   

A suspended dual enrollment student will be subject to any penalties noted in the syllabi of or any other consequences related to the NWFSC course(s) in which the student is registered. An expelled dual enrollment student will be administratively withdrawn. No further due process is required under the NWFSC Student Code of Conduct in any situation that falls under this section.

Title IX Grievances

The Title IX Grievance Process differs from the Student Complaint and Grievance Procedures. The procedure under the Title IX regulations (34 C.F.R. part 106) implements Northwest Florida State College policy and state and federal law that prohibit discrimination and harassment based on sex and gender in employment and educational programs or activities. 

Any person may make a report of sexual harassment (whether or not that person is the Complainant or alleged victim of the conduct that could constitute sexual harassment). Reports may be made in person or via mail, phone call, or email by contacting the Title IX Coordinator:

  Jessica Holley-Guiles

  HR Specialist, Title IX Coordinator

  100 College Blvd. East, Building 310, Niceville, FL 32578

  Phone: (850) 729-5365

  Email: holleyj4@nwfsc.edu 

If an individual discloses sexual harassment or discrimination to a Responsible Employee of the College, that employee is obligated to report the alleged harassment to the Title IX Coordinator.

The Title IX Coordinator will contact each Complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures and the Complainant’s wishes regarding the supportive measures. The Title IX Coordinator will also discuss with the Complainant the process of filing a formal complaint and whether the Complainant will file a formal complaint.

If a formal complaint is filed either by the Complainant or the Title IX Coordinator, the College will treat Complainants and Respondents equitably and will include an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence. Each party may have an advisor. An investigation will be conducted by a trained investigator who will collect relevant evidence and interview both parties and witnesses. The investigator will provide the evidence to both parties for review, allowing at least ten (10) days for the parties to review and provide a written response. The investigator will consider these written responses before submitting the investigative report.

The decision-maker, who cannot be the same person as the Title IX Coordinator or the investigator, must allow each party’s advisor to cross examine the other party and all witnesses at a live hearing. Both parties will be given at least ten (10) days between receiving the investigative report and the live hearing. Either party may request that the hearing take place with the parties in separate rooms and technology enabling the parties and decision-maker to see and hear the proceedings. The decision-maker will issue a written determination, which either party may appeal in writing within seven (7) days of the written determination.

During the formal complaint procedure, the parties may agree to an informal resolution, which is a remedies-based, non-judicial approach designed to eliminate a hostile environment without taking disciplinary action against a Respondent. Both parties must voluntarily consent to the informal resolution process in writing. The College cannot offer or facilitate an informal resolution process to resolve allegations that an employee sexually harassed a student.

To read the College’s full Title IX procedure, click here.

Student Rights & Responsibilities:

The following rights and responsibilities are afforded and ascribed to all students, regardless of location or mode of delivery.

1. The right to be protected from discrimination and harassment
   • The right to be protected against discrimination is covered in Board of Trustees Policy GP 6.00 and is considered “Prohibited Disruption of College Operations”. The right to be protected from harassment is covered by Board of Trustees Policy HR 20.00. Violations of this right should be reported here: https://www.nwfsc.edu/student-dispute-resolution/. The right to be protected against discrimination is likewise guaranteed by the NWFSC Title IX. The right to the safety and security of one’s own academic records
     • Information about the safety and security of one’s own academic records, as well as complaint procedures, are published annually in the College Catalog and may be found here: https://catalog.nwfsc.edu.
2. The right to be informed about completion, graduation, and transfer-out rates for all students, safety, policies and crime statistics.
3. The right to be informed about Safety Procedures and Crime Statistics
   • Crime statistics are published annually in the Student Handbook.
4. The right to due process if found in violation of a college policy or procedure.
   • Due process procedures are published annually in the Student Handbook.
5. The responsibility to abide by the Student Code of Conduct.
   • The Student Code of Conduct is published annually in the Student Handbook.