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Code of Student Conduct and Disciplinary Procedures
Student Life
Student life at PTC is made up of a variety of organizations and activities that supplement the academic atmosphere. For more information about student organizations and activities, call (501) 812-2750. The following are recognized student organizations at Pulaski Tech:
Metro Student Ministries
PTC is a state-supported institution and therefore non-denominational. The purposes of Metro Student Ministries are to encourage student fellowship, to develop student leadership skills, to provide opportunities for the study of the Bible and to practice its teachings, to organize students for service and ministry projects, to assist students in communicating the meaning of their faith in significant ways and to offer guidance as students face crises and critical choices in life. Membership is open.
Phi Theta Kappa
Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society that promotes academic excellence. Members are eligible to compete for scholarships, to participate in regional, national, and international meetings and institutes, and to attend workshops on leadership and scholarship. Phi Theta Kappa strives to create an intellectual climate that fosters academic excellence, protects academic integrity and develops leadership.
Each fall and spring semester an invitation to membership is extended by the chapter to students who have completed a minimum of 18 credit hours at Pulaski Technical College that are clearly applicable to an associate degree with a minimum 3.50 cumulative grade-point average. The minimum 18 credit hours must include at least three credit hours of general education courses applicable to the associate degree being pursued.
SkillsUSA
Membership in SkillsUSA is open to students and other persons interested in the various career fields represented.
The purpose of SkillsUSA is to help students develop social and leadership skills. Activities which enhance the development of these skills will be conducted by the clubs’ members and advisors. The activities may include events between vocational technical institutions and between students, such as parliamentary procedure contests and troubleshooting contests for mechanics.
Each club elects officers from its membership to serve as follows: president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, reporter and parliamentarian.
Student Ambassadors
Student Ambassadors represent Pulaski Technical College in various functions such as orientations, campus tours, school visits, speaking engagements, community service, recruitment of future students and other events. Student Ambassadors also serve as student representatives when welcoming and hosting honored guests and distinguished members of the college community. Ambassadors participate in college activities and represent Pulaski Technical College both on and off campus.
Student Ambassadors must be enrolled in Pulaski Tech through fall or spring semesters and maintain a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average (GPA). Each Student Ambassadors event/activity is assigned a point value and ambassadors are required to accrue a total of a set number of points per semester to maintain active status. Student Ambassadors receive a tuition and fee waiver scholarship. This scholarship can be applied to fall, spring and summer semesters if the student is actively enrolled and remains in good standing with the organization. Applications are available in the Office of Public Relations and Marketing (A116). Scholarship recipients will be notified before the beginning of the fall or spring semesters. For more information, contact the Student Ambassador coordinator at (501) 812-2324.
Student Government Association
The Student Government Association (SGA) consists of elected student representatives. Elections are held each spring for president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. The SGA president appoints the parliamentarian and historian. Division senators are elected during the fall semester. Individuals from each division of the College are represented. An advisor is appointed by college administration. For more information, call (501) 812-2750.
Student Life Policies
Campus Posting Regulations
Unless context specifies a different meaning:
1. “Sign” is defined as any printed material 8.5” x 11” or smaller including, but not limited to decals, photographs, posters, placards, index cards, notebook paper, handbills, brochures, announcements, and advertisements. A “properly posted” sign is one which has been displayed in accordance with posting regulations.
2. “Poster” is defined as a sign constructed of foam core board measuring 18” x 24”.
3. “Banner” is defined as any sign larger than 18" x 24" and constructed of heavy outdoor vinyl.
4. “Posting” is defined as any means for publicly displaying a sign other than carrying by hand.
5. “Authorizing Official” means the Dean of Students or his/her designee.
1. All signs must be approved and stamped with an expiration date by the Authorizing Official prior to posting. Posting period for signs may not normally exceed 30 days. Persons or organizations that post are responsible for removal of the signs within 24 hours after the expiration date. Persons or organizations that habitually fail to remove their signs within 24 hours following the expiration date may lose posting privileges.
2. Only currently enrolled students, registered student organizations, college employees, recognized employee organizations, college departments, contracted vendors, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and persons previously approved by the Dean of Students may post a sign on college property. Only authorized college departments or offices may post a banner.
3. Improperly posted signs will be removed and discarded without notice. Persons or organizations responsible for improperly posted signs are subject to disciplinary action.
4. All bulletin boards are under the jurisdiction of the Dean of Students. Bulletin boards that are labeled “For Official Use Only” are under the jurisdiction of the College department or student organization that maintains the bulletin board. (No sign may be posted on an official bulletin board without the permission of the department or organization that maintains it.)
Size/Location Restrictions:
1. Signs must be posted only on bulletin boards. Only thumbtacks or pushpins may be used to attach signs to bulletin boards. Stapled signs are not allowed and will be removed immediately.
2. Signs containing personal and commercial solicitations must be located only on bulletin boards specifically designated for “buy-sale-trade” postings.
3. Signs must not be posted so as to overlap or conceal other properly posted signs. Properly posted signs may not be removed without permission from the Authorizing Official or the person or organization authorized to post the sign.
4. There will be a maximum of one sign per announcement/event/topic per bulletin board.
Display stands may only be used to display posters, and approval for poster display must come from the Authorizing Official. Postings on glass and wall surfaces are not allowed.
1. Posters may only be posted by registered student organizations and are to advertise special events only. Weekly meetings or reoccurring events may not be advertised using posters. All posters must contain the date and time of the event.
2. Posters may be displayed in the brick flower bed in the Promenade on the Main Campus. Posters may be displayed in the flower bed behind the building at West Campus or in the front of the building in the grassy area. Posters may be displayed at South Campus at either of the main entrances using the grassy areas.
3. Posters must be professionally made, and must be attached to a display stand.
4. Only one event at a time may be displayed using a poster in the flower bed. Each registered student organization can display two posters per event, one on each side of the flower bed.
5. Two posters per event may be displayed at South Campus and West Campus, one per area specified.
6. Requests for displaying a poster must go through the Dean of Students Office and will be granted on a first come first serve basis. Posters may be displayed for a minimum of one (1) day up to a maximum of seven (7) days. The organization sponsoring the event is responsible for the placement of the poster. Posters must be removed within 24 hours following the conclusion of the event, and the sponsoring organization is responsible for poster removal.
7. The Pulaski Technical College logo may not be used on posters without prior approval from the Dean of Students Office and the Office of Public Relations and Marketing.
Banners must be sponsored by an official college department or office. Banners may only be used to advertise college-wide special events and programs and may not be used to advertise reoccurring or weekly events.
1. Banners are to be hung on the fence at the entrance of Main Campus. Banners may not be displayed at the West Campus or South Campus.
2. One banner at a time may be displayed on the fence.
3. Requests to display banners must go through the Dean of Students office and will be accepted on a first come first serve basis. Requests to display banners must be received at least one week before the banner is to be displayed. Failure to give a week’s notice may result in the banner request being denied since it is imperative that Physical Plant have enough notice to post the banner.
4. The Dean of Students will communicate with Physical Plant to have the banner posted and removed within 48 hours of the conclusion of the event.
5. The office or department is responsible for delivering the banner to the Dean of Students Office so that s/he may coordinate the placement of the banner with Physical Plant.
6. Banners may be displayed for a maximum of seven (7) days. Additional display time may be requested but may not exceed 14 days.
7. Banners must be designed and approved by the Office of Public Relations and Marketing.
Banners that are hung on individual group tables for events such as Fall Fest and Spring Fling are exempt from the banner policy. During these events, groups may choose to decorate their tables with their organizational banners. The banners must be attached to the table and removed as soon as the event is over. This ensures that clean-up for the event goes quickly and smoothly. Any banner left attached to a table following these events will be kept in the Dean of Students Office for 48 hours. If the banner is not picked up within the 48 hours, it will be discarded.
Content Restrictions:
1. All signs, posters and banners must be in the English language or contain an English translation of non-English language passages.
2. All signs, posters and banners must include the name of the responsible organization or individual posting it.
3. No sign, poster or banner may be posted that contains material that is obscene, vulgar, or libelous, that promotes academic dishonesty, that is intended or likely to produce or incite imminent lawless action, that denigrates any individual or group because of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or disability, or that is in violation of public laws or ordinances.
Signs, posters and banners may not mention or contain the business logo of any outside entity regardless of co-sponsorship.
Please note that the security of signs, posters and banners cannot be guaranteed. There is always the possibility of weather damage or vandalism. Pulaski Technical College is not responsible for damaged or missing postings.
Public Law 101-542, the Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act, as amended by Public Law 102-26, the Higher Education Technical Amendments Act of 1991, requires that campus crime statistics be made available to all current students and employees, and to any applicant for enrollment or employment upon request. Any incident of criminal actions or emergency that occurs on campus must be reported to a college administrator or a member of the College’s Police/Public Safety staff. Refer to the Pulaski Technical College Web site at www.pulaskitech.edu for the current year campus crime statistics or obtain a copy from campus police.
During the hours when the College is not open, the College’s Public Safety Department personnel maintain safety and monitor the College’s electronic security system. The College’s Public Safety Department personnel meet all state-mandated training requirements and report all criminal violations to the proper authorities.
Campus Visitor Policy
Pulaski Technical College encourages individuals seeking more information concerning the College to schedule a campus tour. Campus visitors should call and schedule a tour with the Student Services office prior to touring the campus. Classrooms and laboratory areas are designated for use by enrolled students; unescorted visitors are restricted from these areas. For safety and security reasons, unsupervised children are not permitted on campus. To schedule a tour, call (501) 812-2275 or (501) 812-2231.
Children on Campus
Students should not bring children on campus, but if it is necessary, the children should never be left unattended. Childcare facilities are available for small children on a limited basis at Little Learners Academy child care center.
Code of Computing Practices
Pulaski Technical College is committed to intellectual and academic freedom in connection with its computing and network resources. Computers and networks can provide access to resources on and off campus, including the ability to communicate with other users worldwide. Such open access is a privilege, much like access to books in the library, and requires that individual users act responsibly. Use of computing and network resources should always be legal and ethical, reflect academic honesty and show restraint in the consumption of shared resources. It should demonstrate respect for intellectual property, ownership of data, system security mechanisms, the right to personal privacy and the right of individuals to freedom from intimidation and harassment. The complete text of the Pulaski Technical College Code of Computing Practices is located on the college’s Web site at www.pulaskitech.edu. For more information, contact the Dean of Students or Chief Information Officer.
Emergency Evacuation Policies
In the event of a tornado warning, all students should go into the interior halls, away from glass windows and doors. In the event of a fire, all students should exit the building in an orderly fashion to a designated location. Evacuation plans are available for each building/department, and students should become familiar with these procedures.
First Amendment Freedoms of Speech and Assembly
The freedoms of speech and assembly are protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. As an academic community, Pulaski Technical College is supportive of free expression of ideas by College students, faculty and staff.
The College is not public in the sense of a park or city street and, as such, it is not open for expression of free speech and assembly by the general public.
College officials may limit free speech if that speech disrupts normal campus functions, interferes with the rights of others or engages in the destruction of property.
College officials may limit free speech if that speech endangers the safety of faculty, staff, students and visitors.
All students and groups are subject to the policies and procedures listed in the Code of Student Conduct, including the section on Prohibited Conduct.
The area designated for demonstrations and mass gatherings is the sidewalk south of the Library Building and the Information Technology Center. Other outdoor areas may be approved on a case-by-case basis on request to the Dean of Students. Normally, the designated hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Students and groups planning a demonstration or mass gathering must provide notice to the Dean of Students at least 48 hours in advance. This is to enable the College to check the college calendar, clear facilities requested if needed and provide adequate Public Safety Department protection for both individuals and College property.
No person is permitted to engage in gainful enterprise or solicitation on the campus without permission of the Dean of Students. Persons wishing to solicit funds, sell printed matter, products, services or other items, distribute commercial literature of any kind, or post or distribute advertising material dealing with commercial items or services must secure approval in advance from the Dean of Students. Activities related to the sales of goods and/or services must be confined to areas designated by the Dean of Students. The above activities must be sponsored by the College, a recognized student organization or college-related organization. In addition, the individuals engaged in such posting, selling or soliciting must be currently enrolled Pulaski Technical College students or employees of the College, or duly approved agents authorized to distribute material(s) or solicit sales on behalf of the College or a recognized college organization. Newspapers may be sold or distributed only in racks provided by the publisher in locations designated by the Dean of Students.
In accordance with Arkansas Code Annotated 4-104-201 to 204, Pulaski Technical College prohibits the offering of gifts or any other promotional incentives to anyone less than 21 years of age through direct face-to-face contact in order to entice the person to apply for a credit card.
In the event that the weather is so severe that the College administration believes that life and property may be in danger, the President of the College may cancel classes until weather conditions improve.
When such a decision is made, the news media will be notified. Students should listen for such announcements on Little Rock radio and television stations. If there is no announcement, students should assume that the College is open.
Sexual Assault Policy
Pulaski Technical College explicitly condemns sexual assault as a violation of an individual’s human rights and dignity. Therefore, the policy of Pulaski Technical College is that members of the College community neither commit nor condone sexual assault in any form. This prohibition applies equally to male and female staff, faculty and students, to all persons on premises subject to College control and to those engaged to further the interests of the College.
Sexual assault is unlawful and may subject those who engage in it to civil and criminal penalties. Employees and students who engage in sexual assault will also be subject to applicable disciplinary action.
Pulaski Technical College is committed to providing an environment free from sexual assault. Therefore, the College administration strongly encourages all PTC community members to report incidents of sexual assault. To that end, reporting and investigating procedures are supportive of and sensitive to the victim. At the same time, they adequately safeguard the rights of the alleged offender.
Sexual assault is generally defined as attempted or actual unwanted sexual activity. Sexual assaults generally fall into one of two categories: forcible and non-forcible offenses. A forcible sex offense is "any sexual act directed against another person forcibly and/or against that person’s will, or not forcibly or against a person’s will where the victim is incapable of giving consent." These sex offenses include forcible rape, forcible sodomy, sexual assault with an object and forcible fondling. Non-forcible sex offenses are acts of "unlawful, non-forcible sexual intercourse," and include incest and statutory rape. Depending on the circumstances, acquaintance rape could be in either category. As used in this policy, the term "sexual assault" is generally descriptive of conduct specifically prescribed as rape, carnal abuse, sexual misconduct, sexual abuse and sodomy under Arkansas Code Annotated 5-14-101 through 123.
Disciplinary Sanctions
Sexual Assault Forcible and Non-Forcible Sex Offenses: The College will not tolerate sexual assault in any form, including rape and acquaintance rape. A student or employee charged with sexual assault can be prosecuted under Arkansas criminal statute and/or disciplined by the College. Even if criminal prosecution is not pursued, the College can pursue disciplinary action. Where there is probable cause to believe that the campus regulations prohibiting sexual assault have been violated, the campus will pursue strong disciplinary action through its own internal judicial channels. This discipline includes, but is not limited to, the possibility of termination, expulsion, suspension, disciplinary probation, counseling, mediation or educational sanctions or a combination. Any conduct that constitutes a sexual offense under Arkansas law shall also be subject to disciplinary sanctions under this policy.
Sexual Assault Victims Rights
As a victim, an individual has the right to file criminal charges with local law enforcement authorities and, upon request, is entitled to assistance from the College in notifying the local law enforcement authorities. The Dean of Students and/or Human Resources staff will explain how to use the College internal complaint process.
An individual has the right to file a complaint with the College and have a sexual assault complaint investigated by the College and the right to participate in any disciplinary proceedings regarding the sexual assault complaint.
If the individual wishes, two non-participating support persons may be present at such proceedings. The person accused may also have a representative present at such proceedings.
The College will notify the individual as to the outcome of any disciplinary proceeding regarding the complaint subject to limitations of state and federal laws relating to data privacy practices. The person accused will also be notified of the outcome of such proceedings.
The College will cooperate with law enforcement authorities in obtaining, securing and maintaining evidence in connection with the sexual assault incident. The College will also assist the individual in preserving any materials relevant to the campus disciplinary proceedings. The College will, in cooperation with law enforcement authorities, make efforts to shield the individual from unwanted contact with the alleged assailant, including the transfer of the victim to alternative classes if this option is available and feasible.
Because of the traumatic nature of sexual assault, victims are strongly encouraged to seek professional help. Students seeking professional help may obtain a listing of referrals at Counseling and Advising Services. Those who would like to receive more information about options for pressing charges, for reporting an incident, for filing internal complaints, or for counseling and educational materials, can contact one of the College offices listed below:
• Human Resources
• Dean of Students
• Department of Police/Public Safety
Sexual Harassment Policy
Harassment on the basis of sex is illegal and a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. This policy defines sexual harassment and establishes a procedure whereby alleged sexually harassed students may lodge a complaint immediately and confidentially.
Any person found to have violated the College’s policy against sexual harassment will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action including, but not limited to, reprimand, suspension, termination or expulsion. Any disciplinary action taken will depend upon the severity of the offense.
It is also a violation for any person to attempt, in any way, to retaliate against a person who makes a claim of sexual harassment.
Resolution Procedures
Students who believe that they have been sexually harassed should first seek an informal resolution as outlined below. If that is not possible, a formal resolution should be pursued. All complaints should be made within 30 days of the occurrence of the alleged harassment.
1. Informal Resolution: A person who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should report the incident promptly to the Vice President for Instruction or the Dean of Students. The person to whom the complaint is made shall promptly begin an impartial consideration of the complaint and make a thorough investigation. If a mutually agreeable settlement is not made within 14 days from the date of the complaint, the complainant may initiate the formal complaint. During all informal attempts to resolve a complaint, to the extent practicable, efforts will be made to keep the identity of the complainant confidential.
2. Formal Resolution: If a complaint cannot be resolved through informal attempts at conciliation and the complainant wishes to pursue the matter further, he or she must file a formal written complaint with the Dean of Students. All formal complaints will be given full, impartial and timely investigation. During such investigations, every effort will be made to protect the privacy rights of all parties; however, confidentially cannot be guaranteed.
If an investigation of a reported occurrence of sexual harassment reveals that the complaint is without reasonable foundation, both parties will be so informed and will also be informed that no further action is warranted. If, however, an individual is found to have violated the College’s policy against sexual harassment, the investigating body will recommend disciplinary action appropriate to the severity of the offense, including, but not limited to, reprimand, suspension, reassignment of responsibilities, termination of employment or expulsion from the College.
Sex Offender Notification
U.S.C., 1092 (f) (1) (1)} is a federal law enacted on October 29, 2000. This law is intended to monitor the enrollment and/or employment status of convicted sex offenders at higher education institutions. The act requires any sex offender who is obligated by law to register in a state to also provide notice to each institution of higher education in that State where the person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student. The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act also requires that higher education institutions issue a statement advising the campus community of the availability of this information. Arkansas Code Annotated 12-12-913 (b) provides that local law enforcement agencies having jurisdiction shall disclose, in accordance with guidelines promulgated by the [Arkansas] Sex Offenders Assessment Committee, relevant and necessary information regarding offenders to the public when the disclosure is relevant and necessary for public protection. Arkansas Code Annotated 12-12-903 defines the authority of the local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction in the municipality where the offender is attending an institution of training or education.
The Pulaski Technical College Community Sex Offender Notification Committee is an administrative committee consisting of representatives from law enforcement, student services and public relations. Representatives from other offices may be involved as necessary. The purpose of this committee is to advise the Pulaski Technical College Office of Police and Public Safety in developing general guidelines and practices concerning notification procedures and in determining the extent and method of notification that may be appropriate with regard to specific offenders in compliance with state and federal law and consistent with the educational purpose of the college. The notification plan, as determined by the committee, will be utilized once the registered sex offender’s information is available on the Arkansas Crime Information Center’s Web site or when there is sufficient information to warrant the enactment of the plan. The registered sex offender will be notified by the Pulaski Technical College Chief of Police once the College is prepared to enact the plan.
Students who fail to register as a sex offender, when required to do so by law, with the PTC Office of Police and Public Safety may be subject to immediate arrest and expulsion. Information regarding all public notices of level three and level four sex offenders who are registered with Pulaski Technical College is available on the College Web site. Additionally, a link to the Arkansas Crime Information Center Web site is also available on the College Web site.
A written summary of campus guidelines and the notification plan for each offender will be maintained in the PTC Police Department. Determinations regarding notifications will be made by the Pulaski Technical College Office of Police and Public Safety, in consultation with the Committee and other campus officials when necessary. Determinations regarding notifications shall be guided by the offender’s risk assessment level in accordance with guidelines established by the Arkansas Sex Offenders Assessment Committee. Treatment specialists may help guide the determination of notification on a case-by-case basis. Consistent with state guidelines, the notification plan should include who will be notified, who participated in the preparation of the plan, the approval of the Vice President for Student Services or designee and the date the plan was made. The record should also indicate the dates of notification.
When the risk assessment level is not available or has not yet been determined by the Arkansas Sex Offenders Assessment Committee, the Pulaski Technical College Community Sex Offender Notification Committee shall set forth notification guidelines based on the information that is available.
Notification Plan
Pulaski Technical College, pursuant to ACT 989 (The Sex and Child Offender Registration Act of 1997), will be conducting a campus notification regarding the listed Registered Sex and Child Offender.
Campus Notification applies to all offenders required to register under Act 989. The plan will include the following: Offender’s name and risk level, scope of notification, date of notification, how the notification took place, names of those who prepared the plan and date the plan was made.
Each Offender is assigned a risk level assessment for his/her potential to re-offend. This assessment is determined using a procedure by which an offender’s history and characteristics are reviewed in order to assign the offender to one of three levels of risk of re-offense, which help determine the plan of action for the offender’s community notification.
LEVEL 1 LOW RISK Individuals with no prior history of sexually acting out, strong antisocial tendencies, sexual compulsions or psychological factors impairing judgment.
LEVEL 2 MODERATE RISK Individuals with limited or circumscribed prior history of sexually acting out, who possess some antisocial personality characteristics, predatory tendencies or deviant sexual interest or behavioral patterns. Individuals may have mild or well-controlled mental disorders, and/or developmental disabilities.
LEVEL 3 HIGH RISK Individuals with histories of repeat sexual offending, and/or strong antisocial, violent or predatory personality characteristics. Sexual compulsions are likely to be present, but may be kept under control when relapse prevention plans are followed and treatment is continued. The offense patterns of these individuals reflect a relatively high probability of re-offense and/or a risk of substantial injury to victims should re-offense occur.
LEVEL 4 SEXUALLY VIOLENT PREDATOR Individuals with impaired judgment or control who have sexual or violent compulsions that they lack the ability to control. This may be due to pedophilia or other disorders of sexual attraction, mental illness or personality disorder that distorts thinking, interferes with behavioral control and predisposes the person to acts of predatory sexual violence.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 was designed to protect the privacy of educational records, to establish the right of students to inspect and review their educational records, and to provide guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data through informal or formal hearings. Students also have the right to file complaints with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with the Act. Questions concerning the Act should be referred to the Dean of Enrollment Services. Copies of the policy and a directory of educational records listing all institutional student records may be found in this office.
A student may request to examine his or her records. Each request will be granted within a reasonable period of time that does not interrupt the normal work of the office. Students who believe that the records are inaccurate or misleading will be given an opportunity to present their views and facts to a person who has no direct interest in the records. Copies of records will be provided upon written request.
Data from student records cannot be released without the student’s consent in writing. Exceptions to this policy include information that is considered directory information and disclosure to the following:
1. Pulaski Technical College personnel with a legitimate educational interest.
2. Federal, state and local officials as specified by law.
3. Research and accreditation representatives.
Directory information is given to any inquirer. The following is considered directory information at Pulaski Technical College:
• Student name
• Address
• Telephone
• E-mail address
• Dates of attendance
• Major field of study
• Full- or part-time status
Currently enrolled Pulaski Technical College students may withhold disclosure of directory information under FERPA. To withhold information, notification can be given at the time of registration to the Dean of Enrollment Services. Pulaski Technical College assumes that failure on the part of any student to request the withholding of directory information indicates approval for disclosure.
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, Public Law 101-226, requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under a federal program, an institution must certify that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees.
The policy of Pulaski Technical College clearly establishes that use, possession, or sale of illicit drugs and alcohol on college premises or at institutional functions will not be tolerated. Therefore, Pulaski Technical College has implemented the following drug prevention steps:
1. An information center has been set up in Counseling Services in Room 240 of the Campus Center.
2. Counseling Services may be contacted for information, counseling or referral concerning substance abuse.
3. The Office of Student Life and Leadership sponsors events that promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles.
4. Instructors will incorporate drug and alcohol prevention materials into their classes when appropriate.
Surveys and Petitions
No individual or organization may conduct a survey or poll of students, employees, or campus visitors, circulate or post a petition, or otherwise solicit signatures on a petition on college property without prior approval of the Dean of Students. (Faculty-assigned surveys or polls to be conducted within the classroom are exempt from this policy.)
Vehicle Registration and Parking
Every student who owns or operates a motorized vehicle on campus is required to register that vehicle and display the parking decal as instructed.
Parking and Traffic Regulations
The Parking and Traffic Regulations have been designed to best utilize the facilities and maintain orderly parking and safe traffic flow. Please feel free to call upon any Public Safety officer at any time or the Public Safety Office if they can be of assistance to you.
In accordance with Act 328 of the 1967 General Assembly, the Board of Trustees of Pulaski Technical College established the following rules and regulations for the registration and operation of motor vehicles on Pulaski Technical College’s facilities. These rules and regulations are binding on all members of the faculty, staff and student body.
Registration of Vehicles
A. All students, faculty, and staff members who operate vehicles and park on any facility of or at events sponsored by Pulaski Technical College are required to register their vehicle with the PTC Campus Police/Public Safety Department. Registration for students is required before the first day of the beginning of classes. Registration for employees of the College is required at the beginning of employment. Registration at events sponsored by the college will be at the discretion of campus police officers and/or the college administration.
B. Vehicle license number, make, model, year and color are required for registration at the discretion of the College.
C. There is no fee for registering a vehicle.
D. All vehicles an individual plans to operate on campus must be registered. When a vehicle is sold and another vehicle is brought onto campus, the issued vehicle hangtag must be transferred to and displayed as required on the new vehicle while that vehicle is on campus or at a college-sponsored event. If parking tag becomes unreadable, a new tag must be obtained. Hangtags are not transferable to other students, non-students, faculty or staff.
Display of Hangtags
A. Students, faculty, and staff will be issued a parking hangtag at the time their vehicle is registered. The permit must be displayed by hanging from rearview mirror with tag number facing outward. Student parking permits expire annually on August 31.
B. Only handicapped vehicle operators who display the state-issued disabled placard will be authorized to reverse display of the campus-issued parking hangtag. Handicap vehicle placards are to face with the number display forward and the college campus hangtag with the number facing into the vehicle.
C. All permits must be displayed with no obstruction to permit numbers, bar code or expiration date.
Responsibilities and Information
A. Students and employees of PTC may operate a motor vehicle on the college campus provided:
1. The operator has a valid driver’s license.
2. The vehicle being operated on the campus meets state safety inspection standards, is legally licensed, and maintains vehicle insurance as required by the state law.
3. The vehicle is registered with the Campus Police/Public Safety Department.
4. The operator of the vehicle abides by the Parking and Traffic Regulations of the College.
5. The operator of the vehicle abides by motor vehicle and traffic laws as mandated by state law.
6. All campus vehicle accidents must be reported to the Police/Public Safety Department.
7. It is understood that registration neither obligates the College to set aside a parking space for every vehicle registered, nor permits the driver to violate Parking and Traffic Regulations or Arkansas State Motor Vehicle Laws.
8. All vehicle operators will observe and obey the orders of the Police/Public Safety Officers in the performance of their duties. This includes rendering and producing identification and proper registration when requested.
B. Pulaski Technical College assumes no responsibility for any vehicle or its contents. Please lock your vehicle.
C. A traffic ticket or other communication on the vehicle from the College is an official notice. A recipient who does not comply with such communications will subject himself/herself to disciplinary action and/or arrest when applicable.
D. The College reserves the right to restrict or deny the use of any vehicle on the College campus if an operator violates Parking and Traffic Regulations or otherwise abuses the privilege of operating and parking a vehicle on the PTC campus.
E. Vehicles may be towed from the campus at the owner’s expense when:
1. The vehicle is parked on the PTC campus after privileges have been revoked.
2. The vehicle is parked in a handicapped space (without proper tag or misuse of a permit), is blocking or partially blocking a street or driveway, is blocking or partially blocking sidewalks or crosswalks, is parked on the lawn, or is otherwise hindering the flow of traffic and/or parking.
3. Vehicles are abandoned if left parked in one location for a period of two weeks. Such vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.
4. The operator ignores communications from the College concerning improper parking of his/her vehicle.
5. The vehicle is deemed unsafe by Campus Police/Public Safety Department.
F. Students who owe a fee for a violation will have a hold placed on their student account, and they will be ineligible to receive an official transcript or register for classes until the obligation has been paid. Violations must be paid to the PTC Cashier’s Office, Monday through Friday, during normal business hours.
G. Employees of the College are equally subject to above regulations.
Parking Area Assignments
A. Student registered vehicles must park in all non-designated parking spaces. Faculty and staff registered vehicles may park in all spaces designated for faculty/staff parking when available.
B. Handicapped Parking - Handicapped Parking is exclusively reserved for vehicles legally and properly displaying a Handicapped Parking Permit issued by the State of Arkansas. Vehicles using the Handicapped Parking Space (regardless of permit) must be transporting the handicapped individual that the permit was issued to assist and are subject to applicable state and federal laws.
C. Visitor Parking – The College reserves and marks with signage a limited number of parking spaces near the entrance of the Administration building and/or in designated areas. The Visitor spaces are restricted to visitors of PTC, not registered students, faculty or staff. Traffic cones are occasionally used to reserve visitor spaces for events. Individuals parking their vehicles and failing to observe the Visitor Parking areas will subject themselves to a parking violation.
D. Faculty/Staff Parking – The College reserves and marks with signage a designated number of parking spaces for faculty and staff. Unauthorized individuals parking their vehicles and failing to observe the Faculty/Staff Parking areas will subject themselves to a parking violation.
E. Reserved/Designated Parking & Reserved Donor Parking is reserved exclusively for those persons as indicated by signage and Hangtag Permit holder.
Other Driving Requirements
A. The campus speed limit is 10 mph except when conditions indicate a slower speed is necessary.
B. All regulatory signs, pavement markings and/or traffic cones and barricades must be observed.
C. Yield to pedestrians at all times.
Other Parking Regulations
A. Vehicles must be parked within the boundaries of a single marked parking space.
B. No parking is permitted on the lawn, in driveways, loading zones and open areas not marked for parking.
C. Double parking and parking on the wrong side of the street are violations at all times.
D. If a vehicle is improperly parked, whether attended or unattended, the driver is in violation.
E. Vehicles in violation of parking regulations are subject to being towed at the owner’s expense.
F. The College reserves the right to immobilize a vehicle (Boot) for 5 or more unpaid parking violations. Removal of this device will be assessed a $25 fee and will include payment in full of all unpaid traffic fees.
Violations and Penalties
A. Lack of space is not a valid excuse for violating parking regulations. Individuals charged with violations of the PTC Parking and Traffic Regulations shall be issued for the following violations:
| 1. Space without vehicle tag, placard or authorized person | $50 |
| 2. Reckless/unsafe driving | $25 |
| 4. Invalid or no proof of license or vehicle insurance | $25 |
| 5. Failure to observe sign, cone, barricade or officer | $25 |
| 6. Speeding /too fast for Conditions | $25 |
| 7. Immobilized vehicle (boot) removal fee | $25 |
| (plus all unpaid violations) | |
| 8. Loud and raucous noise | $25 |
| 9. Parking in a reserved area for faculty and staff, donor or visitors | $10 |
| 10. No parking permit or invalid display on vehicle | $10 |
| 11. Double parking/blocking street or restricted area | $10 |
| 12. Parking in a no parking area or fire lane | $10 |
| 13. Driving and/or parking on grass | $10 |
| 14. Driving/parking wrong direction on one-way street | $10 |
| 15. Parking over the marked line | $10 |
| 16. Falsifying registration information | $10 |
B. A person receiving notice of a Parking or Traffic Violation is required to report to the Cashier’s Office within ten (10) school days to pay the fees levied against him/her. Tickets not paid within ten (10) school days are subject to an additional penalty equal to the amount of the ticket. Students and employees are responsible for all traffic violations made by a vehicle displaying a hangtag issued to the student or employee. If you lend your car, proper operation of the vehicle is still your responsibility. If you transfer ownership of your car, remove the parking hangtag or you will be responsible for violations committed by the new owner.
C. Pulaski Technical College Police/Public Safety Officers maintain the right, as prescribed by law, to issue uniform traffic citations for any operator or vehicle violation committed within their jurisdiction.
Appeals
Any person who feels that his or her vehicle has been unjustly ticketed may appeal. Appeals must be received within 10 business days after the issuance of the ticket or the right to appeal is forfeited. All appeals of parking violations will be considered with respect to the current PTC parking policy. To file an appeal, obtain an appeal form from Student Services or the Office of Public Safety and complete the form in detail, or go to the Web site at www.pulaskitech.edu Police and Public Safety link to access the form. The Appeal Form should be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records. The Student Appeals Committee reviewing the parking appeals will meet monthly, usually the last week of each month. Municipal traffic citations may not be appealed to the college.
The following are not accepted as valid extenuating circumstances for parking in violation of parking regulations, and an appeal will typically not be granted in these cases:
An appeal based on how long you were parked in violation. Public Safety Officers will issue a citation to any vehicle parked in violation of regulations. An appeal that states that the vehicle was only parked for two minutes, five minutes, etc. is not considered valid. A parking restriction holds for parking for any period of time.
An appeal based on your need to get to class/work/an appointment on time. It typically requires a few minutes to locate a parking spot within the campus parking system. It is suggested that drivers plan their schedules such that there is sufficient time to find and park in a legal space.
An appeal based on lack of parking space near your destination. Parking spaces near a specific entrance or building may be limited. The campus parking system does not guarantee a space in a specific lot. Drivers must park in a legal space within a valid lot.
An appeal based on the assertion that class was not in session. Parking regulations are enforced throughout the entire calendar year and are not directly associated with the class schedule.
An appeal of a restricted/prohibited violation during evening or weekend hours. All parking restrictions and prohibitions are enforced during normal college hours, seven days per week.
An appeal based on the assertion that the driver did not see the sign or line markings. It is the driver’s responsibility to note and comply with all posted signage, notices and line markings.
An appeal based on the assertion that the driver forgot his/her college parking permit. Drivers must display a permit in order to park legally in faculty/staff, donor reserved and all open parking.
An appeal based on vehicle malfunction. Drivers who experience a vehicle malfunction and cannot move their vehicle should contact the Department of Public Safety for assistance. Short-term authorization to remain parked may be received by the Department of Public Safety. Four-way flashers are designed to warn other motorists that a vehicle may be a hazard. Use of four-way flashers does not allow a driver to park illegally for any period of time.
Code of Student Conduct
1.0 Purpose
1.1 Pulaski Technical College is committed to maintaining an excellent teaching and learning community. As its central purpose, this community promotes intellectual investigation through vigorous discussion. Essential values that support this purpose include civility, dignity, diversity, education, freedom, honesty and safety.
1.2 Pursuit of a higher education represents a significant investment of financial and human resources. The benefits students derive from this investment depend heavily upon their and their fellow students’ attitudes toward learning and adherence to high standards of behavior. When students voluntarily enroll in the College community, they accept the duty and responsibility of abiding by the regulations and accepted practices of the college. Each member of the Pulaski Technical College community is expected to exercise responsibility and to govern his or her conduct by standards of good taste and ethical judgment even when others disregard those standards.
1.3 Within the College, entities (such as divisions, departments and programs, professional and student organizations) have developed policies that outline standards of conduct governing their constituents and that sometimes provide procedures for sanctioning violations of those standards. This Code of Student Conduct (the Code) does not replace those standards; nor does it constrain the procedures or sanctions provided by those policies. This Code describes possible behaviors that are inconsistent with the essential values of the College community; it outlines procedures to respond to such behaviors; and it suggests possible sanctions that are intended to educate and to safeguard members of the College community.
1.4 The College has an enduring commitment to provide students with a balanced and fair system of resolution. This Code will not deprive students of the appropriate due process protections to which they are entitled. This Code is one of the College’s administrative procedures and should not be equated with procedures used in civil or criminal court.
1.5 It is the policy of Pulaski Technical College not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disabling condition.
2.0 Definitions
2.1 College: Pulaski Technical College, including all of its locations, learning centers and distance learning.
2.2 Student: Includes all persons taking courses at Pulaski Technical College, both full-time and part-time, pursuing undergraduate, technical, certificate and life-long learning (continuing education) studies. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular semester but who have a continuing relationship with Pulaski Technical College or who have been notified of their acceptance for admission are considered "students."
2.3 College Community: Any College employee or enrolled student, whether full or part-time, or any person doing business with the College under contract or on a regular basis.
2.4 Notice: Any correspondence deposited with the United States Postal Service by certified mail, addressed to the last known address of the addressee as shown on the College records, or personally delivered to the addressee.
2.5 College Policy: Any provision of a Board of Trustees order or rule, an official operating letter, or a published directive, rule or regulation.
2.6 College Officials: Those persons who have been given the responsibility and authority by the appropriate agency or person, including trustees, campus police officers, faculty and administrative staff.
2.7 College Premises: Property owned, controlled, used or occupied by Pulaski Technical College, including vehicles and property physically removed from a campus.
2.8 Organization: Any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for registration at Pulaski Technical College.
2.9 Administrative Summons: A written notice to a student to report to a college administrative office at a designated date and time.
2.10 Public Law: Local, state and federal laws.
2.11 Commercial Solicitation: Any activities related to the sale of goods and/or services for a profit.
2.12 Complainant: Any person who submits a charge alleging that a student has violated this Student Code.
2.13 Accused Student: Any student accused of violating this Student Code.
3.0 Prohibited Conduct
The Pulaski Technical College Student Code of Conduct shall apply to conduct that occurs on PTC premises, at PTC-sponsored activities, and to off-campus conduct that adversely affects the PTC Community and/or the pursuit of its objectives. Each student shall be responsible for his/her conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual awarding of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment (and even if their conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded). The Student Code of Conduct shall apply to a student’s conduct even if the student withdraws from school while a disciplinary matter is pending. The Dean of Students shall decide whether the Code of Student Conduct shall be applied to conduct occurring off campus, on a case by case basis, in his/her sole discretion. Any student found to have committed the following misconduct is subject to disciplinary sanction(s), condition(s), and/or restriction(s). Misconduct or prohibited behavior includes, but is not limited to:
3.1 Endangerment:
• Physical or verbal abuse, threats, assault, mistreatment of any person on College property, or at College sponsored and supervised functions. This includes engaging in any form of fighting.
• Action(s) that endanger the health, safety or well-being of another person or group.
• Action(s) that serve the purpose of endangering one’s own health or safety.
• Interference with the freedom of another person to move about in a lawful manner.
3.2 Harassment:
• Conduct (not of sexual nature) that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive campus, education or working environment for another person.
• Conduct that threatens or endangers a person’s emotional, mental or physical well-being.
• Action(s) or statements that threaten, harm or intimidate another person.
• Stalking, defined as: to follow or otherwise contact another person repeatedly, so as to put that person in fear for his or her life or personal safety. (See the Sexual Harassment Policy for further explanations of policies and procedures.)
• Conduct that criticizes, taunts, belittles or denies educational opportunities to an individual based on a documented disability.
3.3 Disruption:
• Conduct that impairs, interferes with, or obstructs the orderly educational processes and functions of the College or the rights of other members of the College community, including teaching, studying, research and college administration. This includes acts that occur both inside and outside the classroom setting.
• Each faculty member is his/her own disciplinarian in class and is authorized to correct inappropriate conduct anywhere on College property at any time. A faculty member has the right to temporarily suspend a student from his/her class room for the remainder of the class whenever the student is disrupting the class to a point that there is no longer a learning environment.
• Intentionally and substantially interfering with the freedom of expression of others.
• Inciting and/or participating in campus demonstrations which disrupt the normal operations of the College.
• Obstruction or interfering with the freedom of pedestrian or vehicular movement on campus or at college-sponsored or college-supervised functions.
• Unauthorized commercial solicitation on campus.
Cellular phones, pagers and other electronic devices shall not be used in a manner that causes disruption in the classroom, library, or within any college-owned or college-operated facilities. This includes abuse of cellular devices with photographic capability. Utilizing these devices for the purposes of photographing test questions or other forms of academic misconduct or illegal activity is prohibited, as is photographing individuals in secured areas such as lavatories or locker rooms. Taking photographs of any individuals against their will is strictly prohibited.
3.4 Sexual Misconduct:
• Any sexual act that occurs without the consent of the victim, or that occurs when the victim is unable to give consent.
• Obscene, lewd, or indecent behavior, which includes, but is not limited to, exposure of one’s sexual organs or the display of sexual behavior that would reasonably be offensive to others.
• Conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive campus, educational or working environment for another person. This includes unwanted, unwelcome or inappropriate sexual or gender-based activities or comments.
3.5 Dishonesty:
The following policies and procedures concerning cheating and plagiarism are printed for the information of all students. The gaining of knowledge and the practice of honesty go hand-in-hand. The importance of knowledge properly gained is emphasized by the grading system. The importance of honesty, fully practiced, is emphasized by these rules against cheating and plagiarism. An act of cheating or plagiarism in any degree subjects a student to disciplinary procedures listed below. All forms of dishonesty including but not limited to:
Cheating:
a) Copying from another student’s test paper.
b) Using any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests or examinations.
c) Possession during a test of materials that are not authorized by the person giving the test, such as class notes or specifically designed "crib notes" or any other device or technology that would aid in cheating. d) Dependence upon the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems or carrying out assignments.
e) The acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the Pulaski Technical College faculty or staff.
f) Aiding and abetting another person in committing any form of academic dishonesty.
Plagiarism:
Plagiarism Defined: Offering the work of another person as one’s own without proper acknowledgment is plagiarism. Therefore, any student who fails to give appropriate credit for ideas or material he/she takes from another, whether fellow student or a resource writer, is guilty of plagiarism. This includes downloading or buying papers from the Internet and cutting and pasting from the Internet without proper acknowledgment.
Other:
a) Making, possessing or using any falsified college documents or records; altering any College document or record, including identification cards.
b) Knowingly providing false information to college officials, including disciplinary hearing bodies.
c) Passing insufficient funds checks or fraudulent money orders in payment of any financial obligations to the College.
d) Falsely claiming to represent the College or a registered student organization of the College.
Procedure for Discipline of Cheating and Plagiarism: The responsibility and authority of initiating discipline arising from violations of the rules against dishonesty during the process of the course are vested in the instructor of that course.
Penalty:
If, in the judgment of the instructor, cheating or plagiarism has occurred, the penalty assessed could be a grade of "F" in the course. The instructor will notify the student of his/her decision concerning the student’s grade. Students should understand that offenses of cheating may also subject the offenders to disciplinary action. The Dean of Students shall determine if disciplinary action is warranted.
Filing Report: In every instance, the instructor will prepare a report indicating the nature of the cheating/plagiarism incident and the student’s grade in the course. The instructor will retain one copy of the report and send another copy to the appropriate dean. The dean will forward information concerning the incident to the Dean of Students and the Vice President for Instruction.
Student Rights:
Students have due process rights with regard to cheating and plagiarism violations. Students wishing to appeal a grade related to cheating or plagiarism should follow the Academic Due Process procedures outlined in the Academic Catalog. Students wishing to appeal disciplinary sanctions should follow procedures outlined in the Disciplinary Procedures section of the Academic Catalog. Once an instructor has determined that academic dishonesty has occurred, the accused student may not withdraw from or drop the course. The student must appeal the grade given by the instructor by completing the Academic Due Process procedures.
3.6 Firearms, Fireworks, Explosives, Weapons:
• Possession, storage, or use of weapons including, but not limited to, firearms, firearm ammunition, air pistols, air rifles, fireworks, incendiary devices, lock blade or fixed blade knives with a blade length of four inches or greater, blackjacks, metal knuckles, or any other such offensive weapons of any description on the Pulaski Technical College campus, or in areas controlled by the College, including vehicles, is prohibited. Possession of any tear gas type products in personal use quantities for the purpose of self-defense is permissible. The use of tear gas type products for purposes other than self-defense is prohibited.
3.7 Illegal Drugs and Alcohol:
• Possessing, using, distributing, manufacturing, or selling alcohol or other drugs on College property or at College authorized activities, even if the activity is not conducted on campus.
• Alcohol usage, regardless of age, is strictly prohibited at any off-campus, College-authorized activity or travel.
3.8 Fire and Safety:
• Removal, damage, or unauthorized tampering or activation of fire, safety or any emergency warning equipment.
• Intentionally and falsely reporting bombs, fires or other emergencies to a College official.
3.9 Gambling:
• Gambling of any form on College property or at a College-sanctioned event is prohibited.
3.10 Property Violations:
• Vandalizing, damaging, destroying or defacing public or private property.
• Stealing, attempted theft, unauthorized borrowing, or use of any College property or the property of others.
• Unauthorized presence in, or use of College premises, facilities, or property including, but not limited to, unauthorized presence in any College building.
3.11 Computer Violations:
• Unauthorized access or entry into a computer, computer system, network, software, or data.
• Unauthorized alteration of computer equipment, software, network or data.
• Unauthorized copying or distribution of computer software or data.
• Use of another individual’s identification and/or password.
• The use of campus computers to access or transmit pornography or inappropriate materials.
• Violations of Internet and e-mail use include, but are not limited to, accessing, downloading, uploading, saving, receiving, or sending material that includes sexually explicit content or other material using vulgar, sexist, racist, threatening, violent or defamatory language.
• Use of computing facilities and resources to interfere with normal operation of the PTC computing system.
• Any other act that violates Arkansas law or the College computer guidelines that is hereby incorporated by reference.
3.12 Administrative Summons:
• Failure or refusal to comply with directions of an administrative summons or of College officials, including campus police officers, acting in the performance of their duties.
3.13 Smoking:
• Beginning on August 1, 2010, the “Clean Air on Campus Act” will prohibit smoking on each campus of statesupported
institutions of higher education.
• The law defines “campus” as “all property, including buildings and grounds that are owned or operated by a statesupported
institution of higher education.”
• An individual or campus subject to the smoking prohibitions shall not discriminate or retaliate in any manner against
a person for making a complaint of a violation or furnishing information concerning a violation to a person, campus
or governing authority.
• Violators may face fines ranging from $100-$500.
3.14 Disorderly Conduct:
Any individual or group behavior which is abusive, obscene, lewd, indecent, violent, excessively noisy, disorderly or which unreasonably disturbs other groups or individuals.
3.15 Other Violations:
Any attempt to commit any of the offenses listed under this section, (an attempt to commit an offense is defined as the intention to commit the offense coupled with the taking of some action toward its commission).
• Violation of published College policies, rules, regulations including but not limited to, parking, smoking, solicitation, distribution of literature, sexual harassment and campus posting rules.
• Violation of federal, state or local laws. In all cases of alleged violations of public law or student code of conduct, the College reserves the right to review the allegations and exercise disciplinary sanctions (if any) in addition to any proceedings that occur as matter of public law.
• Aiding or abetting any violation of federal law, state law or local ordinance.
Pulaski Technical College disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with conduct that potentially violates both the criminal law and this Code of Student Conduct (that is, if both possible violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal litigation in court of criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this Code of Student Conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off campus at the discretion of the Dean of Students. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under this Code of Student Conduct shall not be subject to change because criminal charges arising out of the same facts giving rise to violation of College rules were dismissed, reduced or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant.
4.0 Disciplinary Procedures
4.1 Authority:
The Dean of Students is the senior official responsible for the overall administration of the student discipline process at Pulaski Technical College.
4.2 Determination of Probable Cause:
Any member of the College community may file a complaint with the Dean of Students against any student for misconduct. A charge shall be prepared in writing and directed to the Dean of Students. Any charge should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place, preferably within five days. The Dean of Students will make an initial determination as to whether there is sufficient basis to believe that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct may have occurred. The Dean of Students or his/her designee may informally interview the complainant and/or other witnesses or request additional information from the complainant. When the Dean of Students has determined that there are sufficient grounds to believe that a violation of the Code occurred, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated.
4.3 Disciplinary Process:
• All charges shall be presented to the accused student in written form by registered or certified mail or hand-delivered summons to attend a hearing with the Dean of Students, or his or her designee, and one additional college official.
• At this hearing, the Dean of Students will review with the student the allegations contained in the complaint, the possible sanctions that can be imposed, and the rights and responsibilities of the student under this procedure.
• The charged student will be provided the opportunity to respond to the allegations and to present any information that he/she desires. The complainant and/or the accused student have the right to be assisted by an advisor. The advisor must be a member of the PTC Community and may not be an attorney. The complainant and/or the accused student is responsible for presenting his or her own information, and therefore, advisors are not permitted to speak or to participate directly during the meeting. Delays to the meeting will not be allowed due to the scheduling conflicts of an advisor.
• Pertinent records, exhibits and written statements (including Student Impact Statements) may be accepted as information for consideration at the discretion of the Dean of Students.
• The Dean of Students’ determination shall be made on the basis of whether it is more likely than not that the accused student violated the Code of Student Conduct.
• Formal rules of process, procedure, and/or technical rules of evidence, such as those applied in criminal or civil court, are not used in Student Code proceedings.
• All disciplinary proceedings may be subject to audio tape recording. Any such recordings are the property of Pulaski Technical College and may not be duplicated. The student involved in the proceeding will be allowed to review recordings upon request and under supervision of a college official.
• In the event that the accused student neglects, refuses, or fails to attend the hearing, the Dean of Students will make a determination based on the information available at the time. Failure to attend this hearing will not presume responsibility or non-responsibility.
• If the Dean of Students subsequently determines that disciplinary action is warranted, the charged student will be so notified in writing. All written notices will be hand-delivered or sent by registered mail to the address of the student as it appears on the official college records.
• A decision of sanction imposed by the Dean of Students may be appealed by the accused student or complainant to the Disciplinary Appeals Committee within five (5) class days of the decision. Such appeals shall be in writing and shall be delivered to the Vice President for Student Services. Except as required to explain the basis of new information, an appeal shall be limited to a review of the record of the hearing with the Dean of Students and supporting documents for one of more of the following purposes:
a. To determine whether the hearing was conducted fairly in light of the charges and information presented, and in conformity with prescribed procedures giving the complaining party a reasonable opportunity to prepare and to present information that the Code of Student Conduct was violated, and giving the accused 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 significant prejudice results.
b. To determine whether the decision reached regarding the accused 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 Student Code occurred.
c. To determine whether the sanction(s) imposed were appropriate for the violation of the Student Code which the student was found to have committed.
d. To consider new information sufficient to alter a decision or other relevant facts not brought out in the original hearing because such information and/or facts were not known to the person appealing at the time of the original conduct hearing.
The written appeal should specifically outline the grounds for the appeal using one or more of the purposes listed above.
If an appeal is upheld by the Disciplinary Appeals Committee, the matter shall be returned to the Dean of Students and attending college official for re-opening of a hearing to allow reconsideration of the original determination and/or sanction( s). If an appeal is not upheld, the matter shall be considered final and binding upon all involved.
5.0 Disciplinary Sanctions
In keeping with this policy’s stated essential values, sanctions are designed to promote the College’s educational mission. Sanctions may also serve to promote safety or to deter students from behavior which harms, harasses or threatens people or property. Some behaviors are so harmful to the College community or the educational process that they may require more serious sanctions: removal from specific courses or activities, suspension from the College or expulsion.
5.1 Disciplinary sanctions will draw upon the experience and professional judgment of faculty, staff, and administrators, and on a range of disciplinary techniques. Disciplinary sanctions in response to violations of the Code of Student Conduct will be correlated to the seriousness of the offense, the student’s attitude, the effect of the misconduct on the College environment, the student’s record of misconduct and statutory requirements. Because of these factors, sanctions for a particular offense (unless specified by law) may bring into use varying techniques and responses. Possible disciplinary sanctions include, but are not limited to:
• Formal warning: A formal notice that the Code has been violated and that future violations will be dealt with more severely.
• Disciplinary probation: Implies that the individual’s standing with the College is in jeopardy and that further negligent or willful violations will normally result in suspension or expulsion.
• Withholding of grades, official transcripts or degree.
• Restitution: Compensation for loss, damage or injury to the appropriate party in the form of money, service or material replacement.
• Community Service: Performance of a specified number of hours or tasks designed to benefit the community and help the student understand why his or her behavior was inappropriate. This sanction will be fulfilled whether on or off campus. On-campus service will be in a designated department.
• Class or workshop attendance: Enrollment and completion of a class or workshop that could help the student understand why his or her behavior was inappropriate.
• Educational project: Completion of a project specifically designed to help the student understand why her or his behavior was inappropriate.
• Removal from specific courses or activities.
• Restriction from entering specific college areas and/or forms of contact with certain persons.
• Suspension: Separation from the College for a specified period of time or until certain conditions are met. An individual receiving this sanction must leave the campus upon receipt of the decision and may not enter the campus during his/her period of suspension.
• Expulsion: Permanent separation from the College.
• Revocation of degree and withdrawal of diploma.
5.2 The sanctions imposed under these standards do not diminish or replace the penalties available under generally applicable civil or criminal laws. Students are reminded that many violations of the Code, including harassment and other discriminatory behavior, may violate various local, state and federal laws.
5.3 The following sanctions may be imposed upon groups or organizations:
a. Those appropriate sanctions listed above in 5.1.
b. Loss of selected rights and privileges for a specified period of time.
c. Deactivation. Loss of all privileges, including College recognition, for a specified period of time.
6.0 Emergency Suspension
If a student’s actions pose an immediate threat or danger to any member of the College community or the educational processes, a college administrative official may immediately suspend or alter the rights of a student pending a meeting with the Dean of Students. (The decision will be based on whether the continued presence of the student on the College campus reasonably poses a threat to the physical or emotional condition and well-being of any individual, including the student, or for reasons relating to the safety and welfare of any college property, or any college function.) Except in extraordinary circumstances, that meeting shall be scheduled within two academic calendar days.
• In circumstances where the conduct of a student constitutes an imminent threat or danger to the welfare or safety of the College community, a college administrative official may direct that the student immediately leave the College premises and may further direct the student not return until contacted by the Dean of Students.
• At the hearing with the Dean of Students or his/her designee and one additional college official, the student will be given the opportunity to respond to the allegations and to present evidence. If the emergency suspension is continued, the student will receive notice in writing. Notification will be hand-delivered or sent by certified mail to the last address provided by the Registrar’s Office. (Failure or refusal to take receipt of notification will not negate or postpone said action).
Emergency Suspension Appeals Procedures
The emergency suspension appeals process is the same as the disciplinary appeals process listed previously in this publication.
7.0 Interpretation and Revision
Any question of interpretation or application of the Code of Student Conduct shall be referred to the Dean of Students or his or her designee for final determination.
The Code of Student Conduct shall be reviewed and revised under the direction of the Dean of Students.
Pulaski Technical College
3000 West Scenic Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118
Phone: (501) 812-2200
Copyright 2013 Pulaski Technical College. All Rights Reserved.