College Policies

General Complaint Policy

To file complaints regarding Davidson County Community College’s operations, policies, procedures, or to seek appeals for decisions made regarding admission to the College, financial aid, academic suspension, code of conduct or other matters, follow the resolution process below.

For grade appeals, see the Appeal of Final Course Grade policy. For harassment, see the No Harassment policy.

The College values prompt resolution of complaints/appeals. Individuals are encouraged to raise a complaint/appeal within five (5) workdays following the event or decision giving rise to the complaint on a matter. A work day is defined as any day the College is in operation as specified in the College calendar.

Process for Complaint Resolution

Step One

Typically, most complaints can be resolved informally through communication between the individual and appropriate College personnel. As a first step, the individual should meet with the College employee with whom the individual has a complaint or dispute. Should that not be appropriate or feasible, the individual should meet with the employee’s supervisor. In the meeting, the individual should identify the complaint and the specific action being sought to resolve it. In a situation where the complaint does not concern a specific employee, the individual should contact the College employee with administrative responsibility for the policy, procedure, or operation at issue. Every reasonable effort should be made to resolve the matter informally and in a timely manner. Should that not be possible or appropriate, the individual may proceed to Step Two.

Step Two

If the complaint cannot be resolved through the process described in Step One, the individual should file a written complaint/appeal with the appropriate vice president or executive director within 5 work days following the conclusion of Step 1. If the complaint/appeal directly involves a vice president or executive director, the President will designate some other member of the administration to receive and hear the Step Two complaint/appeal.

The letter shall identify:

• the name of the individual filing the complaint/appeal,
• a concise statement of the nature of the complaint/appeal,
• reasons for dissatisfaction with the decision from step one/decision from other process, and
• the specific action or resolution sought by the individual.

The following individuals are available to assist individuals with writing a complaint/appeal:

• Associate Dean, Davie Campus
• Dean, Student Engagement & Completion

After receiving the letter, the administrator will:

• review the complaint/appeal,
• interview the parties, as necessary,
• offer to call a hearing to gather additional information, and
• issue a resolution.

Within 10 workdays of receiving the complaint/appeal, the administrator will provide a written decision on the complaint/appeal to the individual or call a hearing. This time limitation may be extended by mutual agreement. If a hearing is called, the administrator will contact the individual to arrange a date.

If a hearing is deemed necessary, the individual and College may each, if they choose, be accompanied at the hearing by legal counsel. The individual must notify the College in advance of his or her wish to be accompanied by legal counsel. The individual and College may present evidence in the form of documentation and/or witness testimony. The administrator reserves the right to set reasonable limitations as to the length of the hearing.

Within 10 workdays following the hearing, the administrator will provide a written decision on the complaint/appeal to the individual. This time limitation may be extended by mutual agreement. All documents considered at Level Two shall constitute the record of the complaint/appeal.

Step Three - Final Appeal

If the individual is not satisfied with the decision of the administrator at Step Two, the individual may appeal that decision to the President. The appeal shall be in writing and delivered to the President within 5 workdays of the individual’s receipt of the administrator’s written decision from Step Two. The final appeal shall include:

• the written complaint/appeal described in Step Two,
• a concise explanation of the basis of the final appeal, and
• the action/resolution being sought.

The President will review the record from Step Two, interview parties as necessary, and issue a decision. The President’s review will be based upon the record of the complaint/appeal. The president, may, in his or her discretion, request the parties to give a brief written or oral summary of their contentions if deemed necessary to understanding the facts/issues in the case. The President’s decision is final and shall be made in writing to the parties within 10 workdays. This time limitation may be extended by mutual agreement.

General Provisions

Time Periods & Limitations

Reasonable efforts shall be made by all parties to expedite the complaint/appeal process. If there is no mutual written agreement to extend the time limits, and if a complaint/appeal is not taken to the next step within the specified time period of this policy, the right of the individual to further appeal is terminated.

Complaint Log

Davidson County Community College maintains a comprehensive record of all written complaints/appeals. Vice Presidents are responsible for ensuring that all written complaints/appeals filed in their respective areas are documented in the College’s electronic Complaint Log. The College uses the complaint log to assess complaint/appeal patterns for indications of institutional policy, process, or quality issues. The following information regarding complaints/appeals is recorded in the Complaint Log:

• date of receipt,
• individuals involved in resolving the complaint,
• category of the complaint,
• summary of the complaint/appeal with general details and
• final resolution.

The Complaint Log is protected to ensure the maintenance of privacy and confidentiality. Informal complaints are not documented in the Complaint Log.

General Student Policies

Cell Phones & Other Electronic Devices

Classrooms should be free of all unnecessary distractions from the task of learning. Therefore, as a general rule, students should silence all personal devices not being used for coursework prior to entering the classroom. Please consult individual course syllabi for specific policies related to the use of electronic devices in the classroom, as they may vary depending upon the nature of the course or the guidelines of the instructor.

Inclement Weather

In compliance with Title 23 of the North Carolina Administrative Code, Section 02C.0210, the following policy outlines the policy and procedures for closing or delaying the College schedule due to inclement weather or other events disrupting normal operations.

Closing of College

In case of inclement weather, the President or authorized representative may close one of the campuses, or begin classes at a later hour. Announcement of College or campus closings or delayed starting times will be announced on local television stations (hopefully by 6 a.m.), the College website (www.davidsonccc.edu), and College phone system (336.249.8186). In the absence of such an announcement, the College will be open as usual.

In situations involving inclement weather, natural disasters, or other events that result in the cancellation of curriculum or continuing education classes, the College will implement a plan for rescheduling, making-up or adjusting instruction.

An announcement concerning the cancellation of night classes will be made by 4 p.m. Cancellation of day classes will not mean that night classes are also canceled. A separate cancellation announcement will be made unless the early morning announcement specifically states that night classes are canceled. In the absence of a cancellation announcement, night classes will be held as scheduled.

Inclement Weather Procedures

Assumptions:

1. President’s staff and designated other staff will evaluate weather reports, road conditions and campus preparedness to make decisions regarding the closing of the College, cancellation of classes or delayed opening.
2. College faculty and staff will use their personal judgment in determining if weather conditions permit their safe travel to work.
3. The College reserves the right to designate specific faculty or staff as essential personnel whose functions are vital to key operations of the College such as physical plant services and administrative services with deadlines that must be met regardless of weather conditions. Employees will be informed of their status as essential by their supervisor or College officials as circumstances deem appropriate. Essential personnel may be assisted in getting to the campus via use of a College vehicle only.

Media Messages:
It should be noted that each television station applies unique constraints to what can be broadcast regarding inclement weather closings and delays. Often the message broadcast is different from the message the College delivered. It is recommended that employees check two different sources to confirm a consistent message, including media, College website, and phone system. In order to reduce the level of confusion, one of the following will be specified: open, closed, or delayed opening.

1. No public media announcement will be made if the College will be open and classes will be held as scheduled. Every effort will be made to include an announcement on the College website and on the telephone automated attendant about the decision to go forward with classes either day, evening, or both.
2. If the decision is made not to hold classes, the message “College Closed” (some stations may use “Classes Canceled”) will be followed by one of the following:

• “….Employees follow Plan A” - only designated essential personnel should report. This will be used when conditions are generally poor throughout the area. Non-exempt personnel designated as essential personnel are entitled to overtime pay or compensatory time as outlined in the Faculty/Staff Handbook. Essential personnel unable to report to work are required to take annual leave or compensatory time.
• “….Employees follow Plan B” - This will be an “Optional Employee Work Day.” College will be open to faculty and staff. This announcement will be used when conditions are judged to make travel possible for a significant number of staff, but when driving conditions will probably result in low student attendance.
  • Faculty are not required to report unless requested by supervisor.
  • Staff who are able to travel safely should report to work as soon as possible.
  • Staff who cannot make it to work should contact their supervisor and arrange to take vacation leave.

3. Delayed Opening: “College will open at _______ (a.m. /p.m.)”

• Classes that are scheduled at the time the college opens will meet for the remainder of the scheduled class or lab time. For example, the college will open at 10 a.m. For a class beginning at 9:30 a.m. and ending at 11 a.m., the class would begin at 10 a.m. and meet until 11 a.m.
• Faculty and staff report by the announced opening time.
• Faculty and staff contact supervisor if unable to be present at the opening time.
• Faculty and staff deciding not to report will take leave or use an exchange day.

Procedure for Rescheduling, Making-up or Adjusting Instructional Time

Adjusting Instructional Time

1. If the census date (date class has met 10% of total class days) was reached prior to missed day(s), no adjustment in the date is necessary.
2. If the class has met at least once prior to the original census date but the census date has not been reached prior to the missed day(s), the College will apply one of two options:

• Use original census date
• Recalculate census dates based on revised class schedule

3. If the class has never met, the College will recalculate the census date based on the new class schedule.
4. Documentation of any adjustments to census dates will be attached to each official class attendance roster.

Making Up Missed Instructional Time

Missed instructional time will normally be made up using one or more of the following or similar methods approved by the appropriate Dean:

• Reschedule class time
• Schedule individual student or small group conferences
• Require extra assignments
• Provide handouts such as lecture notes to cover missed content

The Makeup of Lost Instructional Time form, which is located in the Forms section on the College Intranet, will be used to document the method used for making up lost instructional time. The completed form will be attached to the official class roster.

Religious Observance Policy

In compliance with 23 N.C.A.C. 02C.0213, “School Absence for Religious Observances,” Davidson County Community College authorizes two absences from classes each academic year for religious observances required by the faith of the student. For the purposes of this policy, an academic year begins on the first day of fall classes in August and ends on the last day of summer classes in July each year. Absences due to religious observance are in addition to allowed absences set forth by instructors in course syllabi.

Students requesting absence from class for religious observance must complete a Request for Religious Observance Absence form and obtain approval from the Student Records Office in the Student Success Center at least two weeks prior to the date of the absence. Students who miss class for religious observance will be granted the opportunity to make up work missed due to the absence.

Communicable Disease Policy

It is the objective of the College to promote good health and safety of employees and students and to prohibit discrimination against persons afflicted with “Communicable disease” shall be defined as an illness due to an infectious agent or its toxic products which is transmitted directly or indirectly to a person from an infected person or animal through the agency of an intermediate animal, host, or vector, or through the inanimate environment (N.C. Gen. Stat. Section 130A-2). For purposes of this policy, the following are examples of communicable diseases (list is not all-inclusive):

Any employee with a Class A condition must promptly notify the Human Resource Services office and any student with a Class A condition must promptly notify the Vice President,

Student Affairs so that appropriate arrangements can be made for the protection of the individual as well as their co-workers or fellow students. The College will make every effort to accommodate employees and students with Class A communicable diseases as appropriate under the circumstances.

Employees and students with Class B conditions are not required to notify the College unless necessary for a particular assignment or assignments (e.g., a job or class that entails a risk of exchange of bodily fluids) or unless required by law. In the event of disclosure of a Class B condition to Human Resource Services or the Vice President, Student Affairs, the College will make every effort to accommodate the employee or student as appropriate under the circumstances.

For all communicable diseases, whether Class A or Class B, the infected student or employee is expected to behave responsibly and in a manner that will protect others. Employees and students with communicable diseases who are physically able to perform, and who do not pose a risk to themselves or others, may continue to work, attend classes, and perform other activities without restriction.

It is the policy of the College to comply with all state and federal laws relating to the protection of qualified persons with a disability or handicapping condition. The College will make every effort to ensure that individuals considered handicapped by a communicable disease who are employed by the College or admitted to the College as students are afforded all the rights and privileges of these laws. However, it is not discriminatory action under North Carolina law to fail to hire, transfer, promote, or discharge, nor enroll or withdraw from enrollment a handicapped person because the individual has a communicable disease in which the risk of contagion cannot be eliminated by reasonable accommodation.

Persons with communicable diseases are expected to seek expert medical advice and are encouraged to advise local health authorities. Local health authorities can offer counseling to these persons about measures which can be taken to prevent the spread of infection and about ways to protect their own health.

Any information disclosed by a student or employee about a communicable disease will be kept strictly confidential and disclosed only to those individuals with a legitimate need to know. Such information will not be used in a manner that violates any applicable laws.

Unless otherwise required by federal or state law, no person, group, agency, insurer, employer, or institution will be provided medical information without the prior specific written consent of the individual. All medical information relating to communicable diseases will be maintained in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended.

Children on Campus

This policy applies to all who come to campus, including visitors, College employees, and registered students. Davidson County Community College strives to provide a comfortable learning environment for adults pursuing higher and/or continuing education; therefore, it is typically not appropriate for young children to participate in learning opportunities provided by the College such as workshops, orientation, classroom instruction, labs etc. However, the College does recognize that in certain circumstances children will accompany other students, visitors, and/or employees to the campus or a DCCC event.

For the purpose of safety and to avoid disruptive behavior, children accompanying students, visitors, or employees of DCCC must constantly be supervised by a responsible adult while on College property or while attending an off-campus class or other DCCC event. Children and any other persons not registered for a class are not allowed in laboratories or classrooms at any time, at any campus or off-campus site unless authorized by an instructor or staff member. The individual who makes the decision to bring a child to the campus or DCCC sponsored event should be aware and respectful of the needs others have for a quiet educational and work setting and should adhere to the following:

1. Children must not be left unattended in any area of the College. DCCC employees cannot assume supervisory responsibility of unattended children.
2. The College assumes no responsibility or liability for children, nor for any accidents or injuries incurred by children, in any unsupervised situation not approved by the college administration.
3. For the purposes of this policy, the terms “child” or “children” mean any youth under the age of 18 not enrolled in a college course, whether or not such youth is the offspring of the person whom he or she accompanies.
4. Employees are expected to provide for the care of their children away from the work site. In emergency situations, if it is necessary for the employee to bring a child to the workplace during working hours, the employee’s supervisor must approve.
5. Children accompanying employees, students, or visitors are not permitted in classrooms, labs, or shops while instruction is being delivered, without the expressed permission of the instructor. College syllabi will include notice of this policy.
6. Persons wishing to patronize DCCC services to the public (cosmetology, esthetics, etc.) may be refused service if accompanied by a child who will be unattended during the time the patron is receiving services. College staff will not be expected to provide supervision of such children.
7. If a child is found to be disruptive while the student/responsible adult is attending a class, workshop, orientation, or other DCCC event, the student/responsible adult may be asked to step out of the event with the child.
8. If a child is found or identified as “unattended”, Campus Security should be notified. A Campus Security officer will locate the parent (or the adult responsible for the child), and inform him/her of the College’s rule regarding unattended children. The parent/responsible adult will be asked to assume direct supervision of the child(ren) at that time.

A violation of this policy may result in appropriate disciplinary action.

Animals on Campus

It is important for all members of the campus community to feel safe and secure on campus. Therefore, animals and pets are not permitted on property owned or leased by Davidson County Community College, on campus grounds, in facilities, or in vehicles on the property of the campus. Animals that are part of instructional activities in any class and service animals are the only exceptions to this policy.

Students in violation of this policy will be in violation of the student Code of Conduct. In the case of faculty or staff, violations shall be reported to the appropriate supervisor to initiate corrective action.

Service Animals

The American Disabilities Act defines a “service animal” as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including, but not limited to, guiding individuals with impaired vision, alerting individuals with impaired hearing to intruders or sounds, providing minimal protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, or fetching dropped items (28 C.F.R. §36.104). The ADA does not limit the kind of animal that can provide service or the types of tasks or work a service animal can perform. Service animals are permitted on campus. Students who rely on the assistance of a service animal should contact the Disability Services Counselor prior to enrollment to register a service animal and arrange learning accommodations.

Alcohol and Drug-Free Campus Policy and Assistance

Davidson County Community College is committed to a drug-free environment. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance, paraphernalia, or alcohol are prohibited on College premises and at any College-sponsored activities. Lawful consumption and possession of alcohol is also prohibited with the exception of catered use at special College or Foundation events as per DCCC Conference Center Policy.

If any student is found in violation of the College policy or convicted of violating any criminal drug or alcoholic beverage control statute while on College premises or at any College-sponsored activity, he or she will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Additionally any student found in violation of this policy may be subject to punishment to the full extent of the law under applicable local, state and federal law. It is further noted that the use of illegal substances poses a serious health risk including but not limited to severe reactions and death. Records of student drug and alcohol violations are maintained in the Office of Campus Safety and Community Standards; records of employee drug and alcohol violations are maintained in the Human Resource Services Office.

Students needing assistance for any reason related to the use of drugs, including alcohol, should contact a member of the DCCC Student Affairs staff, who will act as a referral source to an appropriate human services agency.

Twice per academic year, the College conducts drug and alcohol abuse programming open to all members of the campus community. Typical programming includes speakers (from law enforcement, health or counseling agencies) or demonstrations of the effects of drug and alcohol use.

Emergency Messages

College staff members do not have instant access to classrooms, instructors, or students. Students are encouraged to inform family and friends of alternate ways to be contacted while on campus. If other methods of contact are not available or not successful, College staff will only attempt to deliver emergency medical messages to students and are not allowed to give information regarding a student’s schedule, presence on campus, or delivery status of the message. Callers should dial 336.249.8186 for the Davidson Campus and 336.751.2885 for the Davie Campus. Campus visitors must go to the reception desk in the B.E. Mendenhall, Jr., Building on the Davidson Campus and to the reception area in the Laboratory Building on the Davie Campus for assistance.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The College is in full compliance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended. This Act protects the privacy of education records, establishes the right of students to inspect, review, and challenge their education records, provides guidelines for the correction of inaccurate or misleading data through informal and formal hearings, and provides for complaint procedures. Copies of the policy established by the College in compliance with the Act are available in the Student Records Office. Questions concerning the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may be referred to the Student Records Office. In complying with the provisions of the Act, the College has designated the following categories of information about students as directory information: the student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, current enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent educational institution attended by the student, photos and videos. Currently enrolled students may prevent disclosure of any of the above categories of directory information under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. To prevent disclosure of the information designated as directory information, the student must submit a written request to the Student Records Office.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records. (An “eligible student” under FERPA is a student who is 18 years of age or older or who attends a postsecondary institution.) These rights include:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day the Davidson County Community College (“School”) receives a request for access. A student should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the school official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the school to amend a record should write the school official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested, the school will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
• The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

The school discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the Davidson County Community College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person serving on the board of trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the Davidson County Community College who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent or a student volunteering to assist another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the Davidson County Community College.

Upon request, the school also discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

1. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Davidson County Community College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202

FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in §99.31 of the FERPA regulations. Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the student, §99.32 of FERPA regulations requires the institution to record the disclosure. Eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures. A postsecondary institution may disclose PII from the education records without obtaining prior written consent of the student:

• To other school officials, including teachers, within the Davidson County Community College whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in §99.31(a)(1)(i)(B)(1) - (a)(1)(i)(B)(2) are met. (§99.31(a)(1))
• To officials of another school where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer, subject to the requirements of §99.34. (§99.31(a)(2))
• To authorized representatives of the U. S. Comptroller General, the U. S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as a State postsecondary authority that is responsible for supervising the university’s State-supported education programs. Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of §99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal- or State-supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs. These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf. (§§99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of the aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§99.31(a)(4))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve instruction. (§99.31(a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. ((§99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. (§99.31(a)(9))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to §99.36. (§99.31(a)(10))
• Information the school has designated as “directory information” under §99.37. (§99.31(a)(11))
• To a victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense, subject to the requirements of §99.39. The disclosure may only include the final results of the disciplinary proceeding with respect to that alleged crime or offense, regardless of the finding. (§99.31(a)(13))
• To the general public, the final results of a disciplinary proceeding, subject to the requirements of §99.39, if the school determines the student is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense and the student has committed a violation of the school’s rules or policies with respect to the allegation made against him or her. (§99.31(a)(14))
• To parents of a student regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any rule or policy of the school, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if the school determines the student committed a disciplinary violation and the student is under the age of 21. (§99.31(a)(15))

No Harassment Policy

Davidson County Community College is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from discrimination, threats, violence and harassment, and in which students and employees at all levels can devote their full attention and best efforts to their studies and their jobs.  Harassment of any kind has no place in the College environment.  The College does not authorize and will not tolerate any form of harassment including but not necessarily limited to that based on the following factors: race, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation or any other characteristic that is protected by law.

DEFINITIONS

For purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:

1. Discrimination

Discrimination means any act or failure to act that unreasonably and unfavorably differentiates treatment of others based solely on their membership in a socially distinct group or category, such as race, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, age, or disability.  Discrimination may be intentional or unintentional.

2. Harassment and Bullying
   1. Harassment or bullying behavior is any pattern of gestures or written, electronic, or verbal communications, or any physical act or any threatening communication that:
      1. Creates or is certain to create a hostile environment by substantially interfering with or impairing a student’s educational performance, opportunities, or benefits or by adversely altering the conditions of an employee’s employment.
      2. Places a student or school employee in actual and reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property; or

“Hostile environment” means that the victim subjectively views the conduct as harassment or bullying and that the conduct is objectively severe or pervasive enough that a reasonable person would agree that it is harassment or bullying.  A hostile environment may be created through pervasive or persistent misbehavior or a single incident, if sufficiently severe.

Harassment and bullying include, but are not limited to, behavior described above that is reasonably perceived as being motivated by any actual or perceived differentiating characteristic or motivated by an individual’s association with a person who has or is perceived to have a differentiating characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, socioeconomic status, academic status, gender identity, physical appearance, sexual orientation, or mental, physical, developmental, or sensory disability.  Examples of behavior that may constitute bullying or harassment include, but are not limited to, verbal taunts, name-calling and put-downs, epithets, derogatory comments or slurs, lewd propositions, exclusion from peer groups, extortion of money or possessions, implied or stated threats, assault, impeding or blocking movement, offensive touching, or any physical interference with normal work or movement, and visual insults, such as derogatory posters or cartoons.  Legitimate age-appropriate pedagogical techniques are not considered harassment or bullying.

Harassment, including sexual or gender-based harassment, is not limited to specific situations or relationships.  It may occur between fellow students or co-workers, between supervisors and subordinates, between employees and students, or between non-employees, including visitors, and employees or students.  Harassment may occur between members of the opposite sex or the same sex.

2. Sexual harassment is one type of harassment.  Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when:
   1. submission to the conduct is made, either explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of an individual’s employment, academic progress, or completion of a school-related activity;
   2. submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting the individual, or in the case of a student, submission to or rejection of such conduct is used in evaluating the student’s performance within a course of study or other school-related activity; or
   3. such conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an employee’s work or performance or a student’s educational performance, limiting a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or environment, or creating an abusive, intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or educational environment.

Sexually harassing conduct includes, but is not limited to, deliberate, unwelcome touching that has sexual connotations or is of a sexual nature, suggestions or demands of sexual involvement accompanied by implied or overt promises of preferential treatment or threats, pressure for sexual activity, continued or repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or propositions, continued or repeated verbal remarks about an individual’s body, sexually degrading words used toward an individual or to describe an individual, sexual assault, sexual violence, or the display of sexually suggestive drawings, objects, pictures or written materials.  Acts of verbal, nonverbal, or physical aggression, intimidation, or hostility based on sex, but not involving sexual activity or language, may be combined with incidents of sexually harassing conduct to determine if the incidents of sexually harassing conduct are sufficiently serious to create a sexually hostile environment.

3. Gender-based harassment is also a type of harassment.  Gender-based harassment may include acts of verbal, nonverbal, or physical aggression, intimidation, or hostility based on sex or sex-stereotyping but not involving conduct of a sexual nature.

Harassment Based on Race, Sex, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Disability, Religion, or Sexual Orientation

Harassment based on these categories as they may be defined by governing law deserves special mention and is also strictly prohibited.  Examples of the types of behavior that may be considered harassment based on these characteristics may include:

• Jokes or negative comments about these characteristics
• Displays of reading materials or pictures containing negative material about these characteristics, including electronic materials
• Vandalism or “pranks” based on these characteristics
• Name-calling based on these characteristics
• Punishing a person for complaining of these types of harassment

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment (whether opposite-sex or same-sex) is strictly prohibited.  Examples of the types of behavior that may be considered sexual harassment in violation of this policy may include:

• Sexually offensive jokes or comments
• Physical assaults or other touching that is sexual in nature
• Promising favorable treatment or threatening unfavorable treatment based on the person’s response to sexual demands
• Displays of sexually oriented reading materials or pictures, including electronic display of such materials
• Punishing a person for complaining of sexual harassment

Consequences

1. Any violation of this policy is serious and college officials shall promptly take appropriate action.  Students may be subject to discipline in accordance with the College’s Code of Conduct applicable to students.  Based on the nature and severity of the offense and circumstances surrounding the incident, the student will be subject to appropriate consequences and remedial actions up to, and including, dismissal or expulsion. 
2. Employees of the College who violation this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to, and including, dismissal. 
3. Volunteers and visitors to campus who violate this policy will be directed to leave school property immediately and/or reported to law enforcement, as may be appropriate. 
4. Repeated or multiple violations of this policy, or in the event offenders return to campus without authorization from school officials, may result in a request from school officials to law enforcement that the offender be charged with criminal trespass.   

Consensual Relationship

Consensual relationships are not absolutely prohibited by the no-harassment policy; however, because of the potential for misuse or the perception of misuse of authority, certain consensual relationships are prohibited.  Anyone who violates this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including immediate termination of employment.

All faculty and staff members are prohibited from having an intimate amorous relationship with any student who is under the academic supervision of that faculty or staff member.  Both the fact and the appearance of such a relationship must be avoided.  Academic supervision includes supervising, tutoring, providing guidance to or working with a student in any capacity, either directly or indirectly in the classroom, outside the classroom, or as a work-study student.

Academic supervision also includes counseling, advising a student or student group, in a formal or informal capacity, and participating in award, grant, or scholarship decisions.  An intimate amorous relationship includes a romantic and/or sexual relationship between members of the same sex or members of the opposite sex.  A relationship that is not consensual is governed by the College’s no harassment policy.

Under no circumstances may a faculty or staff member have an intimate amorous relationship with any student who is a minor.  This prohibition applies whether or not the relationship is consensual and whether or not the student is under the academic supervision of the faculty or staff member.  A minor is anyone under the age of eighteen.

A faculty or staff member who is aware that he or she is violating this policy or who is aware that he or she may appear to be violating this policy is encouraged to consult immediately with the appropriate supervisor to discuss a means of resolution.

College Commitment to Effective Policy

Effective No-Harassment and Consensual Relationship policies depend on everyone working together to address these very important subjects.   Any employee or student who feels that the College has not met its obligations under this policy or is not satisfied with the way in which the report of harassment was handled should contact the College President. 

The Campus Sexual Violence Elimination (SaVE) Act Policy

This Act creates the following criteria by which DCCC will respond to acts of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking: 

1. Transparency

SaVE requires that incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking be disclosed in annual campus crime statistic reports. Additionally, students or employees reporting victimization will be assisted in the following ways: 

• Be assisted by campus authorities if reporting a crime to law enforcement
• Changing academic, living, transportation, or working situations to avoid a hostile environment
• Obtaining or enforcing a no contact directive or restraining order
• Receiving contact information about existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, and other services available both on-campus and in the community 

​2. Accountability

SaVE clarifies minimum standards for institutional disciplinary procedures covering domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking to ensure that: 

Any student or employee who is a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking may report these actions to the appropriate representative of DCCC or law enforcement. DCCC is committed to promptly and fully investigating any allegations of misconduct and will proceed to investigate all claims as follows: 

Establishing Time Frames for the Review Process

The College will conduct a timely review of all complaints of domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking. Absent extenuating circumstances: 

• Review and resolution is expected to take place within sixty (60) calendar days from receipt of the complaint.
• The preliminary review of all complaints, including any necessary interviews to be conducted and any necessary interim measures to be put in place, will usually be completed within 10 days of receipt of the complaint.
• The subsequent, comprehensive review and investigation of the complaint, including interviews with all involved parties and gathering of evidence, is usually completed within 20 days of receipt of the complaint.
• Results of the complaint, via either a formal hearing or waiver of hearing are typically issued within 60 days of receipt of the complaint.
• An appeal of the results must be submitted within 7 days of receipt of the written result.
•  Absent extenuating circumstances, decisions on appeals are typically issued within 30 days of submission of the appeal.

Parties’ Rights to Advisors

The respondent and complainant may be assisted during disciplinary hearings and related meetings, by an advisor of their choice. The respondent and complainant may present witnesses and may produce other evidence for consideration by the hearing officer. The respondent and complainant are responsible for presenting evidence on their own behalf. Advisors may speak privately to their advisee, respondent or complainant, during the proceeding. Either party may request a brief recess to consult with their advisor which will be granted at the discretion of the hearing officer. Advisors for the respondent and complainant may not present evidence or question witnesses.

Notification of Findings

Within five (5) class days after the adjournment of the hearing, the hearing officer shall submit written findings of fact, conclusions regarding the charge(s), and imposition of a sanction, if any, to the respondent and any College official who is determined by the Director of Campus Safety and Community Standards to have a legitimate interest in the result. In the case of sexual misconduct and violations involving dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, both the complainant and respondent shall also receive simultaneous notice of the results and sanctions imposed (and the rationale for the result and sanctions), as well as notice of the appellate procedures available.

Sanctions

DCCC considers dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking as extremely serious violations and subject to punishment up to SUSPENSION and/or EXPULSION from DCCC. This is separate and distinct from any criminal charges that may be brought from such actions.

Evidence

Evidence to be presented by complainant(s) and respondent(s) during any hearing on the charges must be shared with the opposing party at least two (2) business days in advance of the scheduled hearing. The College Official presiding at and/or hearing the case may exclude evidence that has not be shared or adjourn the hearing to afford all parties the opportunity to review evidence to be presented during the hearing. The DCCC Official presiding at and/or hearing the case will make the final decision relating to the admissibility of all evidence.

Burden of Proof

The burden of proof in all cases is “the preponderance of the evidence” - whether it is “more likely than not” that the sex discrimination, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking occurred. If the evidence presented meets this standard, then the respondent must be found responsible. This standard does not necessarily apply to any corresponding criminal or civil proceedings based of the actions in question.

Extensions

All deadlines and time requirements in the Code may be extended for good cause as determined by the DCCC Official presiding over the case. Both the respondent and the complainant will be notified in writing of the delay, the reason for delay, and provided the date of the new deadline or event. Extensions requested by one party will not be longer than 5 business/school days.

3. Education

As part of DCCC’s SaVE compliance DCCC is committed to providing programming for students and employees addressing the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. DCCC has implemented education programs to address these topics; such programs are outlined and defined below:

Primary Prevention Programs

DCCC expressly prohibits the offenses of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. DCCC is committed to provide programming, initiatives and strategies informed by research or assessed for value, effectiveness, or outcome that are intended to stop dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking before they occur through the promotion of positive and healthy behaviors that foster healthy, mutually respectful relationships and sexuality, encourage safe bystander intervention, and seek to change behavior and social norms in healthy and safe directions.

Ongoing Prevention and Awareness  Programs

Programming, initiatives and strategies that are sustained over time and focus on increasing understanding of topics relevant to and skills for addressing dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and staking using a range of strategies with audiences throughout the institution.

Awareness Programs

Community wide or audience specific programming, initiatives, and strategies that increase audience knowledge and share information and resources to prevent violence, promote safety and reduce perpetration.

Bystander Intervention Programs

Programs and training that offer safe and positive options that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking. They include recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene.

Risk Reduction

Options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence

4. Collaboration

SaVE establishes collaboration between the U.S. Departments of Justice, Education, and Health and Human Services to collect and disseminate best practices for preventing, responding to and reporting acts of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. DCCC is committed to compliance with SaVE provisions and undertakes numerous training opportunities for faculty, staff and students to best be prepared to prevent and respond to acts of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. DCCC makes a continued effort to maintain required disclosure of all acts of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.

 Reporting Procedures

The College cannot resolve matters that it does not know about. Every student and employee has a duty to immediately report harassment, sexual crimes ( dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault) or violations of the consensual relationship policy so that the College can try to resolve the situation. Harassment or violations of the consensual relationship policy should be reported when: 

• An individual feels that he/she has been harassed, is a victim of a sexual crime or subject to a violation of the consensual relationship policy.
• An individual has knowledge of someone else being harassed, is a victim of a sexual crime or being subjected to a violation of the consensual relationship policy. 

This is true in cases whether the alleged is a student, faculty, staff, or even a non-employee, such as a customer or vendor with whom the College does business. 

To report harassment, sexual crimes or violations of the consensual relationship policy, contact:

Denise Barnhardt

Director, Human Resources & Title IX Coordinator

J. Bryan Brooks Student Center, Office 223

336.249.8186, extension 4662

denise_barnhardt@davidsonccc.edu

This individual has been trained to respond appropriately to such reports. Once a report has been received, the College will: 

• Conduct a prompt and thorough investigation (for sexual crimes the process of investigation of described in full detail under the SaVE Act Policy)
• Contact law enforcement officials if necessary to ensure the safety of the complaining student or employee
• Make appropriate referrals to Family Services of Davidson County or another appropriate entity for victim assistance services
• Evaluate and/or implement changes to the victim’s academic or work environment to ensure safety
• Discuss the results with the complaining student or employee and, where appropriate, the action to be taken
• Keep the investigation and results as confidential as possible
• If the complaint is verified, take appropriate corrective action, up through and including dismissal from the College or termination of employment. 

No student or employee will be punished for bringing information to the College’s attention or for cooperating in an investigation; however, a person who self-reports a violation of the College policy is still subject to investigation and appropriate actions.

DCCC will protect the confidentiality of victims, including redacting names of victims, as permitted by law on publicly available recordkeeping.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Denise Barnhardt, Director, Human Resources, J. Bryan Brooks Student Center, Office 223, 336-249-8186, extension 4662, denise_barnhardt@davidsonccc.edu.

For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit The Office of Civil Rights for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call 1-800-421-3481.

Campus Access, Parking, and Security (CAPS)

A campus access, parking, and security fee is charged to curriculum students in fall, spring, and summer semesters. Revenues collected from this fee will be used to pay for acquiring, constructing, and maintaining the College’s parking facilities, parking enforcement, and security of college property.

In an effort to provide parking access for all students, Davidson County Community College does not require permits for students to park on the campus.  However to ensure the orderly flow of traffic and obtain the maximum utilization of parking spaces, it is necessary to have and enforce regulations related to the operation and parking of vehicles while on campus.  

Parking

Students parking is allowed in all parking lots on the Davidson and Davie campus within the following parameters:

• All cars must be parked within white lines in the campus parking lots
• Parking in reserved parking spaces is prohibited
• Parking on the grass in prohibited
• Vehicles parked in designated “No Parking” areas may be towed.
• Vehicles must be operated in a safe manner. Campus wide speed limit is 15 mph.

Students in violation of College parking may be subject to a Student Code of Conduct and/or the vehicle may be towed at owner’s expense.

Handicapped Parking

• Handicapped parking is restricted to the exclusive use of vehicles displaying a valid state issued handicapped license plate or placard. The placard or disabled license plate must be issued in the name of the disabled person utilizing the vehicle parked in a handicapped space.
• The handicapped spaces are the BLUE mark parking areas on the campus.  Unauthorized vehicles are subject to ticketing, towing or both at the owner’s expense.
• NOTE: the fine is $250.00 for the unauthorized use of a handicapped spaces.

Student Responsibility

• Davidson County Community College does not assume the responsibility for loss or damage to any vehicle, or its contents, while operated or parked on the property of DCCC.

Tobacco-Free & Smoke-Free Campus Policy

Davidson County Community College recognizes that the use of tobacco products and smoking on campus grounds is detrimental to the health and safety of students, faculty, staff, vendors, and visitors and is committed to providing the campus community with a safe and healthful environment. [1] Under G.S. 14-313, electronic cigarettes and other electronic smoking devices are defined as tobacco products. Thus, in addition to remaining a 100% tobacco-free campus, the College will become a 100% smoke-free campus effective May 1, 2014.

For the purposes of this policy, tobacco products are defined as any type of tobacco product that contains, or that is made or derived from tobacco and is intended for human consumption, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic cigarillos, electronic pipes, vapor products, cigars, cigarillos, pipes, bidis, hookahs, smokeless or spit tobacco, or snuff.

1. Use of tobacco products and electronic smoking devices as set forth above is prohibited by students, staff, faculty, vendors, and visitors

• in all campus buildings, facilities, or property owned or leased by Davidson County Community College,
• on campus grounds, facilities, or vehicles on the property of the campus, and
• at lectures, conferences, meetings, social, and cultural events held on campus property or campus grounds.

2. The sale or free distribution of tobacco products, including merchandise and electronic smoking devices, on campus is prohibited.
3. Davidson County Community College provides free, accessible tobacco and smoking cessation resources on campus, including counseling or assistance for those who request help in quitting use of tobacco products.
4. Implementation and Compliance

• Davidson County Community College insures that appropriate signage and other physical indicators of the policy are provided.
• Students, faculty, staff, vendors, and visitors who violate the policy shall be issued a verbal reminder of the policy. Repeat offenses will be handled as indicated below:
  • Students who repeatedly violate the policy will be issued a conduct violation through the college’s Code of Conduct as outlined in the Student Handbook and Calendar.
  • Staff and faculty who repeatedly violate the policy shall be referred to their supervisor. Repeated violations by staff or faculty may result in further disciplinary action.
  • Visitors who repeatedly violate the policy shall be asked to leave campus.
  • Repeat violations by vendors will be considered breach of contract.

[1] The College further recognizes that it has the legal authority to prohibit tobacco use pursuant to North Carolina G.S. 143-599.

Visitors

Visitors, including sales persons, vendors, and recruiters must check in at the reception desk in the B. E. Mendenhall, Jr. Building lobby on the Davidson Campus, or the reception desk in the Laboratory Building on the Davie Campus upon arrival. Visitors will sign in and receive a visitor badge, which must be worn at all times during the visit.

Visitors who need assistance in locating a student must also check in at the reception desk upon arrival. Classes can only be interrupted by the Campus Resource Officer or a Security team member and only for the purpose of delivering medical emergency messages. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), College employees are not at liberty to share student schedule information with anyone, except by court subpoena.

Visitors are not allowed in classroom, shop, or lab areas without prior permission of a College official. Visitors who violate this policy or cause disruption may be removed from campus.

Weapons Policy

Possession or use of a weapon, as defined by State law, on College premises or at College-sponsored or College-supervised functions, is prohibited under North Carolina G.S.14-269.2 This includes carrying: any gun, rifle, pistol, any BB gun, stun gun, air rifle, air pistol, or other firearm, dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine, tear gas or powerful explosive, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, slingshot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades (except solely for personal shaving), firework, or any sharp-pointed or edged instrument except instructional  supplies, unaltered nail files and clips and tools used solely for preparation of food, instruction, and maintenance, on educational property. Exceptions may apply to:

Exceptions may apply to:

• authorized College security personnel,
• on-duty law enforcement officers attending College classes or activities, and to
• law enforcement faculty possessing weapons for instructional purposes.

This prohibition does not apply to an individual who has

• a concealed handgun permit issued in accordance with Article 54B of this Chapter,
• has a concealed handgun permit considered valid under G.S. 14-415.24, or
• is exempt from obtaining a permit pursuant to G.S. 14-415.25,

provided the weapon is

• a handgun, AND
• the handgun remains in a closed compartment or container within the individual with a permit’s locked vehicle or a locked container securely affixed to the individual with the permit’s locked vehicle, AND
• the vehicle is only unlocked when the individual with the permit is entering or exiting the vehicle, AND
• the handgun remains in the closed compartment at all times.

Any violation of the above standards is a violation of state law and the Davidson County Community College Student Code of Conduct and employee policies.

Information Technology Services Policy

The purpose of Information Technology Services (ITS) is to provide leadership, communication, and support for the effective and efficient use of information systems for learning, resource management, decision-making, and innovation.

Acceptable Use of IT Resources

The College endeavors to respond to changing needs in providing and maintaining IT resources to support its teaching, learning, and support functions. College IT resources are for use by students, faculty, staff, and other community users. Academic use takes priority over personal use across all user categories.

Responsible, ethical behavior is expected of persons using IT resources. To assist College personnel in making decisions regarding the use of IT resources, the following guidelines have been adopted. Different divisions may have additional guidelines concerning practices, procedures, and scheduling of IT resources.

Minimum Security Rules & Requirements

• Users will use only DCCC authorized hardware and software while on the DCCC network to include wireless technology (personal computers on the wireless network are authorized).
• Users will not introduce or download executable code (such as, but not limited to, .exe, .com, .vbs, or .bat files) into the DCCC network without authorization, nor write malicious code.
• Users will not utilize DCCC provided IT resources for personal financial gain or illegal activities.
• Other than designated curriculum computer networking labs, authorized DCCC personnel will perform maintenance only. Physical relocation or changes to DCCC hardware (i.e. workstations), software, network configurations, or telephone systems are unauthorized without DCCC ITs approval.
• Users will address any questions regarding policy, responsibilities, and duties to a faculty or staff member or the DCCC Informational Technology Services Help Desk.
• Phishing and Social Engineering are prohibited. These are techniques (sometimes malicious) used to fraudulently acquire sensitive information, such as passwords, pins, personal information (identity theft), College operations, credit card/financial details (online banking), etc. by masquerading as a trustworthy entity in electronic communications which is predominately performed through Internet email attachments, bogus Web links, and telephone systems.
• Users will not create, store, or transmit defamatory material within the College network. Users will not vandalize, damage, or disable intellectual property of an individual or the DCCC organization.

Internet Resources

Users are advised that the information available via the Internet is broad in content and uncensored. Availability of such information at DCCC does not imply that the College approves of, condones, endorses, or accepts responsibility for any content not under its control.

Review of Computer Usage

DCCC reserves the right to examine and monitor computer usage, computer files, accounting information, and backups, and to take action to ensure appropriate use, integrity, and operation of its computing systems. Limits may be placed on the duration and purpose of computer usage, particularly during hours of peak usage.

Software - Unauthorized Copying or Use

The College licenses the use of software from a variety of vendors. The College does not own that software or its related documentation and unless authorized by the software developer, does not have the right to reproduce it. Unauthorized duplication or use of software violates the U.S. Copyright Law and exposes the individuals involved and the College to possible civil and criminal liability

NOTE: Individuals found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the College’s Code of Conduct Policy and Procedures.

Solicitation and On-Campus Employment Recruiting Policy

1.  Introduction

Davidson County Community College (DCCC) embraces and strives to uphold the freedoms of expression and speech guaranteed by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and the North Carolina Constitution.  Free speech is central to the College’s academic mission and it encourages and supports open, vigorous, and civil debate across the full spectrum of society’s issues as they present themselves to this community.

The College has the right under appropriate circumstances to regulate the time, place, and manner of exercising these and other constitutionally protected rights.  This policy provides the applicable rules and procedures for any form of solicitation at DCCC.

2.  Definitions

2.1  “Charitable Contribution” means a pledge or grant of anything of value to a charitable organization, where the value of the pledge or grant exceeds the value of anything received in return.

2.2  “Charitable Organization” means an organization that has humane and philanthropic objectives, whose activities benefit humanity or a significant rather than limited segment of the community without expectation of pecuniary profit or reward and is exempt from taxation under either N.C.G.S. 105-130.11(a)(3), N.C.G.S.105-130.11(a)(5), or Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

2.3  “Commercial Solicitation” means any proposal to sell, seeking or asking of an offer to buy, dissemination of information for the purpose of facilitating the sale of goods or services, any activity which attempts to raise funds, whether through sale of goods and services or donations, for any entity that is not a charitable organization, or the dissemination or collection of surveys for a commercial purpose.

2.4  “Distribution” means individuals handing materials to other individuals who may refrain from receiving them.  Leaving materials unattended on a surface or vehicle to be picked up is considered littering, not distribution. 

2.5   “Non-Commercial Solicitation” means any hand distribution of leaflets, brochures or other written materials designed for informational and not commercial purposes.  This definition does not include the dissemination of information for purposes of the administrative, academic, research, or extension activities of the College.

2.6   “Non-College Groups” means a group of individuals, other than Student or College Groups, that are legally separate entities from the College, even though some of the members or participants may be College personnel, alumni, or students. 

2.7   “Student” means any person from the time he or she accepts admission to DCCC up through the date of graduation or until that person is no longer enrolled with the College.  This includes new students at orientation and any other person currently enrolled in a credit earning course offered by DCCC. 

2.8   “Student Group” means a group of students who have satisfied the College procedures and requirements for registration or recognition. 

2.9   “College Group” means an administrative or academic unit, department or center within the College.

3.  General Procedures

3.1   The College does not impose restrictions on any forms of solicitation because of the content or viewpoint of the expression or the possible reaction to that expression.  In addition, the College does not assume any obligation or responsibility for the content of materials distributed by Students, Student Groups, or Non-College Groups or individuals.

3.2   Groups and individuals may not block or otherwise interfere with the free flow of vehicular, bicycle or pedestrian traffic.  The rights of way on streets and sidewalks must be maintained.

3.3   Groups and individuals may not block or otherwise interfere with ingress and egress into and out of the College buildings.

3.4   Groups and individuals shall not obstruct, disrupt, interrupt or attempt to force the cancellation of any College-sponsored event or activity, or by users authorized to use College facilities.

3.5   Groups and individuals shall not engage in harassing, physically abusive, threatening or intimidating conduct toward any person.

3.6   Classes, meetings, ceremonies, scheduled activities, educational activities, and other essential College processes shall not be disrupted.

3.7   The use of public address systems or amplified sound will not be allowed without prior approval from the Student Affairs Office.

3.8   The safety of members of the campus community, collectively and individually, must be protected at all times.

3.9   Solicitation activities shall not damage College property or its grounds, including lawns, shrubs, or trees.

3.10 Groups and individuals must comply with all applicable College policies, regulations, and

rules, and with applicable laws, including those concerning safety, libel, slander, defamation, and obscenity.

3.11  Groups and individuals shall comply with the directions of College officials when enforcing these provisions.

3.12 Groups and individuals are expected to refrain from littering and may be held responsible for costs incurred as a result of littering.  In addition, the group or individual must collect and remove any loose, dropped, or littered materials or trash in the vicinity of the distribution area. Failure to do so may result in a charge to the group or individual for the cleanup of these materials.

4.  Procedures for Non-Commercial Solicitation

4.1     College Groups, Student Groups, Students and Sponsored Participants

4.1.1  College Groups, Student Groups, Students, and their sponsored Non-College Groups and individuals may conduct non-commercial solicitation without reserving space in any outdoor or common areas of campus, the use of which is not otherwise restricted, reserved, or scheduled.  However, a member of the College or Student Group or the student sponsoring the Non-College groups or individuals must be present at all times with these participants while conducting such activity.

5.  Procedures for Commercial Solicitation

5.1     College Groups, Student Groups, and Students may conduct commercial solicitation on College premises subject to the conditions below.  Non-College Groups and individuals are prohibited from engaging in commercial solicitation unless sponsored by a College Group, Student Group, or Student.

5.2    All commercial solicitation must be conducted under the following conditions:

5.2.1  Students and members of the College or Student Groups must conduct all commercial solicitation on behalf of the sponsored Non-College Groups and individuals.

5.2.2.  Groups and individuals must reserve space to conduct commercial solicitation.  Groups and individuals can reserve outdoor space by contacting the Student Affairs Office for scheduling the use of the facility.  Groups and individuals  must request the use of such space at least 48 hours in advance of the activity.  Non-College groups can reserve outdoor space by contacting the External Affairs Office.  Space will be granted on a first come-first served basis based upon availability.

5.2.3  Food offered for sale or given away in connection with the solicitation must comply with all applicable health code standards.

6.  Procedures for Solicitation of Charitable Contributions

6.1  College Groups, Student Groups, Students, and their sponsored Non-College Groups and individuals may conduct solicitations of charitable contributions as long as the solicitation complies with the North Carolina “Solicitation of Charitable Funds” Act.  However, a member of the College or Student Group or the student sponsoring the Non-College Group or individuals must be present at all times with these participants while conducting such activity.  Unsponsored Non-College Groups and individuals are prohibited from conducting independent solicitations of charitable contributions.

6.2  Groups and individuals must reserve space to conduct solicitation of charitable contributions.  Groups and individuals can reserve outdoor space by contacting the Student Affairs Office.  Groups and individuals must request the use of such space at least 48 hours in advance of the activity.  Non-College groups can reserve outdoor space by contacting the External Affairs Office.  Space will be granted on a first come-first served basis based upon availability.

6.3    Food given away in connection with solicitation may not be prepared at the place of distribution, and must comply with all applicable health code standards.  Goods and services offered for sale must comply with applicable State and Federal health and safety laws and regulations.

7.  Exclusions

7.1  Nothing in this regulation shall prohibit the College from barring solicitation on College property that are non-public forums.  These areas not traditionally open to the public for speech, such as libraries, office space, residence halls, laboratories, and classrooms, which may be limited to College uses.

Other Individuals/Groups Internal to Davidson County Community College

The following schedule and designated locations have been established by the College for solicitation events by those internal to the College:

 Other Individuals/Groups External to Davidson County Community College

The following schedule and designated locations have been established by the College for solicitation events by those external to the College, referred to herein as Non-College groups.

Elected Officials

Current elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels may hold town hall meetings and other generally accepted public forums for the purpose of communicating with and serving constituents. These events are subject to regular campus operating hours and room availability and must be scheduled accordingly through the scheduling coordinator for the desired location.

Political Candidates

The following schedule and designated locations have been established by the College for solicitation events by political candidates:

Political candidates wishing to address the campus community in a public forum on any property owned, leased, or operated by the College must contact the External Affairs office (extaffairs@davidsonccc.edu) to request a visit. Visits will be scheduled no less than seven business days from the date of the initial contact. Candidates must complete and return the request form to the External Affairs office seven business days prior to the desired visit date. Candidates may not arrange a visit more than two weeks in advance. The External Affairs office will respond to the request in writing within five business days of receiving it. Once a solicitation event is approved, the candidate must read, sign, and submit the solicitation agreement form to the External Affairs office prior to the visit.

Additional Information for Political Candidates and Groups External and Internal to Campus

Due to space limitations and close proximity to other businesses, activity is not permitted at the Thomasville Education Center, the Uptown Lexington Center, or the Davie Education Center.

Designated space will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis as long as the visit does not conflict with a previously scheduled campus event and the area is not temporarily deemed inaccessible or unsafe due to weather conditions or construction.

While posters, flyers, signs, and banners will not be screened for viewpoint, the College shall designate locations for distribution or display of such posters, flyers, signs, and banners. The College shall further prohibit the distribution or display of any publication or material that causes or clearly threatens to cause a material and substantial disruption of a school activity, or encourages the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school regulations. Any failure to comply with the terms and conditions of this policy shall result in immediate removal of the poster, flyer, sign, and/or banner.  The allowance or removal of the display of material under this policy does not imply approval or disapproval of the material’s contents by the Davidson County Community College, its Administrators, the Davidson County Community College Board of Trustees or the Davidson County Community College Foundation.

Those who are approved to conduct an event on any property owned, leased, or operated by the College must comply with the guidelines listed below:

Groups or Individuals Will

• Complete a solicitation agreement form and submit it to the appropriate office prior to the scheduled visit.
• Check in at the reception desk in the B. E. Mendenhall, Jr. Building lobby upon arrival.
• Wear a campus visitor badge during the entire visit. Students, faculty, and staff must wear their campus ID badge.
• Speak only during time periods scheduled.
• Remain located in the scheduled designated area. 

Groups or Individuals May

• Distribute written materials by hand at the designated time and place of the solicitation event as approved by the appropriate office.  Distribution of written materials will not be denied solely on the basis of content or viewpoints expressed therein. Groups distributing written materials will be billed by the College for clean-up costs associated with the distribution.
• Solicit, accept, or collect donations or contributions for not-for-profit activities only at the designated time and place of the solicitation event as approved by the appropriate office.
• Display written or other visual materials on designated community bulletin boards only.  Materials may be posted on the day of the solicitation activity and remain posted up to one day following the event.

Groups or Individuals May Not

• Use sound amplification or generate noise to the level that it disrupts the learning environment or normal College operations.
• Communicate racial epithets, sexual comments, etc. or other language that may evoke an imminent threat of violence.
• Advocate illegal conduct that directs, incites, or produces imminent lawless action.
• Touch, strike, or impede the progress of pedestrians, except for incidental or accidental contact, or contact initiated by a pedestrian.
• Photograph or audio or video record any faculty, staff, or student without first obtaining written permission from the person.
• Engage in disruptive or disorderly conduct that is reasonably likely to cause a material and substantial disruption in the learning environment or normal College operations.
• Damage, destroy, or steal College or private property.
• Possess or use firearms, explosives, or other weapons as defined by the College’s weapon’s policy.
• Possess, be under the influence of, or sell illegal drugs.
• Obstruct free flowing pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
• Distribute written material on campus through the College’s intercampus mail system.
• Display written or other visual materials on any surface other than designated community bulletin boards. 
• Leave the designated area to solicit in other areas of the campus.
• Harass students, faculty, and staff (using any means of coercion to stop individuals who do not volunteer to engage in the solicitation).
• Canvass, sell, offer for sale, or promote the sale or advancement of goods or services. (Applies to external groups only; DCCC students, faculty, and staff must obtain approval.)

On-Campus Employment Recruiting

Employers wishing to recruit DCCC students for employment must contact Career Services staff at 336-249-8186 ext. 6245 or cs@davidsonccc.edu to arrange a visit. Visits will be scheduled no less than seven business days from the date of the initial contact. So that a quality experience can be arranged, employers must read, sign, and return a recruiting agreement form to the Career Services office seven business days prior to the scheduled visit. The College reserves the right to decline recruitment requests at its discretion.

Operating guidelines for recruitment visits are listed below:

Recruiters Will

• Check in at the reception desk in the B. E. Mendenhall, Jr. Building lobby upon arrival.
• Wear a campus visitor badge during the entire visit.
• Recruit only during time periods scheduled.
• Remain located in the scheduled designated area.

Recruiters May

• Provide company literature (general information, annual reports, facility pictures, etc.).
• Use appropriate displays (including pictures, self-provided multimedia equipment, or product samples, etc.).
• Set up on-campus interview times, if needed, by contacting Career Services at ext. 6245.

Recruiters May Not

• Schedule on-campus recruitment dates for pyramid-type organizations and/or organizations that charge a fee (certification or licensing fee, equipment purchase, initial investment in the company, etc). 
• Distribute material on campus in locations other than those designated by the College.
• Give free gifts to students. (Company logo items such as pencils, pens, key chains, etc., are permissible.)
• Solicit donations or sell merchandise.
• Leave designated area to recruit in other areas of the campus.
• Harass students (using any means of coercion to stop students who do not volunteer to talk with recruiter).