SH.11 - Student Code of Conduct

SH.11.A – Introduction

Tulsa Community College (TCC) is committed to creating and maintaining a productive learning community that fosters the intellectual, personal, cultural, and ethical development of its students. Self-discipline and valuing the rights of others are essential to the educational process and to good citizenship. Attending TCC is a privilege and students are expected to meet or exceed the College’s standards of conduct both on and off campus.

TCC Community Standards

TCC Community Standards are designed to create an environment that supports a robust academic life and a respectful community. All TCC students should aspire to promote the following standards:

Respect of Others – TCC students should show positive regard for each other, faculty, and staff. They should appreciate the diverse college community and embrace and celebrate differences showing that everyone belongs at TCC.
Integrity – TCC students are expected to exemplify academic and behavioral integrity in all their actions
Community Responsibility – TCC students are expected to take responsibility for their own actions. Students should assist others by engaging in bystander intervention and reporting concerning behaviors to aid in keeping the community safe

Purpose

The Student Code of Conduct outlines TCC policies and procedures that all students are expected to adhere to during their time at TCC. The primary focus of the conduct process is on educational and corrective sanctions; however, sanctions such as suspension or expulsion from TCC may be necessary to uphold community standards, be used as educational sanctions, or protect the TCC community.
For questions regarding the Student Code of Conduct, contact the Office of Conduct and Community Standards.

Authority

Tulsa Community College Board of Regents directs the President to adopt, publish, and make readily available a Student Code of Conduct. The President will implement appropriate procedures for handling student cases for violations of the Student Code of Conduct. Such procedures shall provide students with the appropriate level of due process to which they are entitled by applicable law and will comply with all other applicable laws.

The President or the President’s designee(s) shall have the final authority and decision regarding student conduct cases, and there shall be no right of appeal to the Board.

Interpretation

Any question of interpretation regarding the Student Code of Conduct will be determined at the discretion of the Vice President of Student Success and Equity or their designee.

Jurisdiction of the College Student Code of Conduct

The Tulsa Community College Student Code of Conduct applies to the conduct of students regardless of student status.

The Tulsa Community College Student Code of Conduct applies to conduct that occurs on College premises, at College-sponsored activities, and may also apply to off-campus conduct when the Vice President of Student Success and Equity determines that the off-campus conduct affects a substantial College interest. A substantial College interest is defined to include:

Any situation where it appears that the student’s conduct may present a danger or threat to the health or safety of others; and/or
Any situation that is detrimental to the educational mission and/or interests of the College.

The Student Code of Conduct may be applied to behavior conducted online, via email, or other electronic mediums. Most online speech by students not involving College networks or technology may be protected as free expression.

The Student Code of Conduct applies to guests of College community members whose hosts may be held accountable for the misconduct of their guests.

Amnesty Statement

The college may offer amnesty for minor conduct violations to

A student who may have committed a minor violation at the time of a more serious incident
A student who offers help to those who need medical assistance.

If amnesty is offered, educational options may be explored, but no conduct actions or record will result.

SH.11.B – Definitions

Business Day:

College working day, not including Saturday, Sunday, or federal or state holidays, and any other days Tulsa Community College is closed. Deadlines may be extended during breaks and College holidays.

College or Institution:

Tulsa Community College

College community member:

Includes any person who is a student, faculty member, College official, or any other person employed by the College.

College Hearing and Appeals Board:

A group of trained faculty and staff members that conduct college hearings and appeals for the Code of Student Conduct, Title IX, and Civil Rights complaints. This group of people will determine whether a student has violated a TCC policy and, if necessary, issue sanctions and supportive measures.

College official:

Includes any person employed by the College, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities including all TCC-affiliated boards.

College premises:

Any buildings or grounds owned, leased, operated, controlled, or supervised by the College.

College-sponsored activity:

Any activity on College premises or at an off-campus location that is directly initiated or supervised by the College or a College recognized group or organization. This includes student organizations, study abroad programs, and events. In addition, College-operated or leased transit is included in this activity even if the behavior occurs off College premises.

Complainant:

Any member of the College community, visitor, or guest who alleges a violation(s) by any student for misconduct under this Student Code of Conduct. The College may also serve as the complainant.

Conduct Hold:

A Conduct Hold restricts enrollment and may restrict transcript release.

Conduct Officer:

The administrative officer is responsible for the administration of student conduct and includes their designee.

Dean’s Hold:

A Dean’s hold restricts enrollment and may restrict transcript release.

Educational Sanction:

A developmental and/or educational action which is imposed or proposed for students who are found responsible for violating the Student Code of Conduct. Educational Sanctions are designed to hold students accountable for their behavior and provide the opportunity for behavior change. Sanctions can range from a written warning to expulsion. For a complete list, see SH.11.E: Sanctions.

Evidentiary Standard:

In order for a student to be found responsible, the information must support a determination that is more likely than not that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct occurred. Hearsay evidence may be considered but will be weighed accordingly.

Faculty member:

Any person hired by the College to conduct classroom or teaching activities or who is otherwise considered by the College to be a member of the faculty.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):

A federal law originally passed in 1974 that defines student educational records and regulates who may access those records and under what circumstances. The purpose of FERPA is to protect the privacy of student education records.

Hearing Procedures:

The hearing is not a legal proceeding. Formal rules of process, procedure, and evidence do not apply. Requisite levels of due process and fairness will be provided to all participants during these proceedings.

Investigative Report:

The report of investigation prepared by an investigator after a formal complaint is filed, processed, and investigated.

Parental Notification:

FERPA permits educational institutions to notify parents of students under the age of 21 when a student has been found responsible for an alcohol or drug-related violation.

Preponderance of Evidence:

The standard by which Student Code of Conduct violations are decided. This standard of evidence means that what is alleged to have happened is, more likely than not, what actually happened.

Prohibited Conduct:

Conduct that potentially jeopardizes individual or community safety or educational opportunities. Prohibited conduct can occur on or off campus.

Responding Party:

Any student who is alleged to have violated the Student Code of Conduct.

Vice President of Student Affairs:

Employee designated by the College President to be responsible for the administration of the Student Code of Conduct.

Student Code of Conduct:

As a community, the College has developed a code of standards and expectations that are consistent with its purpose as an educational institution. The Student Code of Conduct conveys these standards and expectations.

Student:

An individual who has been admitted and/or enrolled for the current term or a future term at Tulsa Community College, including all modes of remote instruction. Students who leave the College before a conduct complaint is resolved may be prohibited from future enrollment until the matter is resolved. Allegations of academic dishonesty, or fraudulently obtaining a degree may be filed at any time, whether or not the student is currently enrolled or registered.

Student Status:

The active or inactive status of the student will determine the procedures and sanctioning for a Student Code of Conduct complaint. A student who withdraws from a course or from the College or completes their courses after the date of an alleged violation is still considered a student.

Active Status: Any person enrolled in or taking courses at or through the College, either full-time or part-time, credit or noncredit, including correspondence study, concurrent courses, dual enrollment, online courses, study abroad and auditing courses. Active student status lasts until an individual graduates, is dismissed, or is not in attendance for three consecutive semesters (i.e. fall-spring-fall semesters.)
Inactive Status: An inactive student is any person possessing a TCC ID number but not meeting the entire criteria of an active student.
Allegations of sexual misconduct, academic dishonesty, or fraudulently obtaining a degree may be filed at any time, whether or not the student is currently enrolled or registered.

Support Person:

A person who has agreed to assist a complainant or respondent during the College conduct process. The support person may be a person of the student’s choosing, including a Tulsa Community College faculty or staff member, a Tulsa Community College student, a parent, a friend, or an attorney

Supportive Measures:

Non-disciplinary actions offered or required of one or both parties, respondent or complainant, involved in an alleged violation of the code of student conduct. Such measures are intended to maintain the student's access to education and protect the safety of all parties.

Title IX:

A comprehensive federal law that protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance. Title IX states that no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

SH.11.C – Due Process Rights

Students at Tulsa Community College are afforded due process rights throughout the student conduct process. Any and all rights afforded to a responding party during any student conduct action will also be afforded to a reporting party as appropriate.

The two fundamental process rights are:

Notice: Responding parties and complainant (when appropriate) will be given written notice of Student Code of Conduct allegations.
Administrative Process or Hearing: Responding parties and complainant (when appropriate) will be given an opportunity to present information, including witness testimony and/or statements, during a fair and impartial Administrative Process or hearing

Rights of Students Participating in a Student Conduct Action

All students have the right to:

Present information on their behalf.
Choose not to answer any and all questions posed by a hearing body.
Be accompanied by a support person. Students may be accompanied by a licensed attorney at their own expense.
Submit questions for witnesses.
Have hearings conducted in private.
Have hearing decisions communicated in writing.
Request reasonable accommodations from the office adjudicating their conduct case. Accommodation requests must be made three days in advance of the scheduled hearing through the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards.

SH.11.D – Prohibited Conduct

D.1 Academic Misconduct

Cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, alteration of academic materials, or other academic misbehavior. For further explanation, see SH.02.A – Academic Integrity Policy.

D.2 Disorderly Conduct

Behaving in a lewd, indecent, obscene manner or breaching the peace on College property or at College-sponsored activity or program.

D.3 Disruption or Obstruction

Disrupting or obstructing College-sponsored or hosted instruction, services, and activities, including, but not limited to studying, teaching, research, College administration, or fire, police, or emergency services on College premises, online, or at College-sponsored activities off-campus; blocking the entrance or exit of any College building, corridor, or room therein; blocking or impeding pedestrian or vehicular traffic on or adjacent to College property. This includes disrupting or obstructing other individuals’ right to non-commercial expressive activity in an unrestricted green space. For further explanation, please visit Tulsacc.edu/Reserve.

D.4. Failure to Comply

Failing to comply with the lawful directions of any College employee acting within the scope of their official duties or failing to identify oneself with proper identification to such a person when requested to do so.

D.5 Interfering with the Conduct Process

Failure to obey the notice from a Student Conduct Office or College official to appear for a meeting or hearing as part of the Student Conduct process; falsification, distortion, disruption, misrepresentation of information before a conduct officer or Hearing Panel; filing a complaint/grievance in bad faith; harassment, intimidation, or influencing impartiality of any member of the Student Conduct Process, witness, or college personnel before, during, or after a proceeding; failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Student Code of Conduct.

D.6 Forgery or Unauthorized Use

Forging, possessing, or using without authorization College documents or records, financial aid documents, computers, electronic mail, telephones, identification, or College property.

D.7 False Representation

Knowingly making false representation to the College in any form, written or verbal. Submission of false information or withholding information at the time of admission or readmission may make an individual ineligible for admission to, or continuation at, Tulsa Community College.

D.8 Theft

Engaging in theft, attempted theft, or unauthorized possession of property belonging to the college or other individuals or recognized groups on college property or facilities on or near the campuses.

D.9 College Policies, Rules, and Regulations

Failure to comply with TCC policies, rules, and regulations published in the Student Handbook, or other college publications and agreements. For example, informational technology policies or safety directions such as wearing required personal protective equipment while in labs, clinical sites, etc.

D.10 Safety Risk/Damage to College Community

False Reporting: Knowingly making a false report of a bomb, fire, or another emergency.

Fire Safety: Engaging in, tampering with, or any other misuse or unauthorized use of firefighting equipment, fire sprinkling systems and other safety equipment or warning devices, and failure to evacuate when a fire alarm is activated.

Property Damage: Intentional, reckless, and/or unauthorized damage to or destruction of College property, or facilities affiliated with the College, or the personal property of another.

Unauthorized Entry: Misuse of access privileges to College premises or unauthorized entry to or use of buildings, including trespassing, propping, or unauthorized use of alarmed or secured doors for entry into or exit from a College building.

Campus Disruption: Participating in any disturbance that presents a clear and present danger to self or others, causes physical harm to others, or damage and/or destruction of property.

D.11 Personal Safety

Harassing: conduct including written, online, or verbal threats or intimidation directed toward a person that includes repeated or continuing unconsented contact that would cause a reasonable individual to suffer substantial emotional distress. If the harassing conduct is on the basis of sex or a protected category, race, color, national origin, age, religion, qualified disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or other basis protected by discrimination law, the College will utilize the Discrimination and Harassment Policy to resolve and respond to those complaints. Harassing does not include constitutionally protected activity or conduct that serves a legitimate purpose.

Bullying/Cyberbullying: any written, verbal, or physical act, or any electronic communication, directed toward a person that is intended to cause or that a reasonable person would know is likely to cause, and that actually causes, physical harm or substantial emotional distress and thereby adversely affects the ability of another person to participate in or benefit from the College’s educational programs or activities. Bullying does not include constitutionally protected activity or conduct that serves a legitimate purpose.

Hazing: Engaging in any action or activity that causes or is likely to cause reckless or intentional physical or mental discomfort or distress, that may demean, degrade, or disgrace any person, regardless of location, intent, or consent of participants, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. Apathy or acquiescence in the presence of hazing are not neutral acts; they are violations of this rule.

Physical Harm or Direct Threats of Harm: Engaging in physical violence of any nature against any person, on or off-campus. This includes fighting, assaulting; battering; using a knife, gun, or another weapon; physically abusing, restraining or transporting someone against their will; or acting in a manner that threatens or endangers the physical health or safety of any person or causes reasonable apprehension of such harm.

Violation of No Contact Order: When an individual violates the terms of an active No Contact Order.

Weapons: Possessing, using, or storing firearms, explosives (including firecrackers), weapons, or dangerous chemicals on College property or in the course of any College activity, except as specifically authorized under applicable state law. This includes, but is not limited to, BB guns, airsoft guns, paintball guns, knives, swords, crossbows, handguns, shotguns, and rifles.

D.12 Violation of the College's Title IX or Discrimination and Harassment Policy

D.13 Misuse of Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco, Gambling

Alcohol: Illegally manufacturing, consuming, possessing, distributing, selling, or serving alcoholic beverages on College premises or at College-sponsored activities regardless of age, except as expressly permitted by College policy. For further explanation, see SH.03.D – Drug and Alcohol Policy.

Drugs: Acting or intending to act to illegally use, possess, sell, share, distribute, cultivate, manufacture or be under the influence of any state or federally controlled drug or substance. Possessing drug paraphernalia. Inhaling or ingesting any substances (e.g., nitrous oxide, glue, paint, etc.) that will alter a student’s mental state. Knowingly providing a location for individuals to possess or consume drugs or knowingly being in the presence of drugs are also prohibited. While the use of medical marijuana has been legalized in the state of Oklahoma, federal law continues to prohibit marijuana. Therefore, the possession, use, manufacturing or distribution of prescribed medical marijuana is prohibited on campus property and at college-sponsored activities. For further explanation, see SH.03.D – Drug and Alcohol Policy.

Use of Tobacco: The use of tobacco to include smokeless tobacco and e-cigarette devices/vaping is prohibited. For further explanation, see SH.03.G – Smoking / No Smoking and Other Tobacco Use Policy.

Gambling: Illegal gambling for money or other things of value on College property or at College-sponsored activities.

D.14 – Violation of Law or College Policy

Conduct action may also be taken for any violation of college policies, local ordinances, state, or federal law, on or off-campus, which adversely affects the College community or the pursuit of the College’s lawful educational mission, process, or function. The college will take necessary and appropriate action to protect the safety and well-being of the campus community. In addition, if a student has been found to have violated state or federal law, the college reserves the right to notify the appropriate authority. Students will be afforded due process and the ability to appeal as prescribed by the Tulsa Community College Student Handbook and other relevant college policies, rules, or regulations. Students may be subject to civil and criminal penalties in addition to campus sanctions. Campus resolution may proceed before, during, or after civil or criminal actions are concluded and is not subject to challenge based on the action or inaction of civil authorities.

Violation of Law — behavior that would constitute a violation of any federal, state, and/or local law; city or county ordinance; or when in another state or country, the laws of that state or country.
Violation of College Policy — behavior that would constitute a violation of any Tulsa Community College policy, rule, or regulation.

SH.11.E – Classroom Disruption

The purpose of the Classroom Disruption Policy is to maintain a positive learning environment for all TCC students and faculty. For the purposes of this policy, “Classroom Disruption” is behavior that a reasonable person would view as substantially or repeatedly interfering with normal class activities. Examples include making loud or distracting noises or gestures, persisting in speaking without being recognized, or physical threats or personal insults.

Faculty may require a student to leave the classroom until the following process is completed.
Removal Process

Faculty have the authority to remove a student from a class, or immediate instructional environment including the remote environment, for the day of removal and the next class meeting.
1. Within one business day of the removal, the faculty member will notify the appropriate college official.
2. The sole basis for the faculty removing the student from a class is the student’s highly disruptive behavior.
When a student(s) has been removed from a class as outlined above, the following process should be followed before any decision is made to allow the student(s) to return to the class.
1. Within one business day of the removal, the faculty member will notify the appropriate Dean of Academic School.
2. Prior to the class period when the student is eligible to return, the Dean of Students and Accessibility or designee, student, and the faculty member shall meet to discuss the issue.
3. The Dean of Students and Accessibility or designee will notify the faculty member regarding the resolution to the disruption complaint, including any stated expectations or conditions of student behavior when the student returns to class.
4. Within one business day after being notified of the Dean of Students and Accessibility or designee’s decision, the faculty member may appeal, in writing, the decision to the Associate Vice President of Student Success or designated TCC official. The removal from class may be extended to review the appeal.
5. The decision of the Associate Vice President of Student Success or designated TCC official shall be final.

SH.11.F – Overview of the Student Code of Conduct Process

This overview gives a general idea of how the College Student Code of Conduct proceedings work, but it should be noted that not all situations are of the same severity or complexity. Thus, these procedures are flexible and equitable. They are not exactly the same in every situation. Consistency in similar situations is a priority.

Evidentiary Standard: In order for a student to be found responsible, the information must support a determination that is more likely than not that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct occurred. Hearsay evidence may be considered but will be weighed accordingly. College email (MyTCC) is the primary means of communication with students. Students are responsible for all communication delivered to their TCC email address.

F.1 – Incident Reports

Any member of the College community (faculty, staff, or student) or any person who is unaffiliated with the College who has knowledge of an alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct may file a report against a student alleging that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct has occurred. The College may itself initiate a report.
A report should be filed as soon as possible but within 180 calendar days (not College business days) of the alleged violation. A late report may be accepted with the approval of a Conduct Manager.
The report must be submitted via the TCC Student Conduct Report form and must include the date, time, place, name(s) of the person(s) involved (e.g., the accused, witnesses), and sufficient detail to make a determination of whether disciplinary action may be warranted.
Reports may be initiated for incidents where concurrent criminal charges are pending. The College may resolve incidents without regard to either pending civil litigation or criminal prosecution. College conduct proceedings may proceed before, during, or after court proceedings.
Allegations of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking will be referred to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, and the Title IX or Discrimination and Harassment Policy will be used to respond and resolve Civil Rights.
In instances where a student has been convicted of a felony through the criminal process or the College believes they have enough information that would make it more likely than not a violation of the Student Code of Conduct has occurred the College may file a report against the responding party without the cooperation of the reporting party.

F.2 – Assessment of Complaints and Incident Reports

Upon notice of a report alleging prohibited conduct, the Student Conduct Officer or designee will conduct a preliminary review of the facts of the case to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to warrant moving forward in the conduct process. Alleged violations of College policy where neither suspension nor expulsion are a possibility are normally resolved through an informal Educational Conference.

If sufficient evidence exists that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct may have occurred, the Manager of Conduct and Community Standards or designated Conduct Officer will notify the student (responding party) via a Notification of Allegation Letter outlining the alleged prohibited conduct to be investigated. The letter will be sent electronically to the student’s TCC email. If attempts to contact the student regarding the allegations are not successful, a Conduct Hold may be placed on the account and be released after the student has participated in the conduct meeting.

Allegations which could result in suspension where a one-on-one meeting between the Manager of Student Conduct and Community Standards would be the most effective way to establish the facts of the case are typically addressed in a Formal Student Conduct Meeting.

In cases where student health or safety is believed to be significantly jeopardized the Dean of Student Success and Campus Operations or designee may issue an Interim Suspension.

Allegations which could result in suspension or expulsion that are complex, sensitive, require a number of witnesses, or that involve an alleged victim will be referred directly to a Student Code of Conduct Hearing or designated college conduct officer.

F.3 – Informal Educational Conference

Upon determination that sufficient evidence exists that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct may have occurred, the Manager of Conduct and Community Standards or designated Conduct Officer will notify the student (responding party) via a Notification of Allegation Letter outlining the alleged prohibited conduct to be investigated. The letter will be sent electronically to the student’s TCC email. If attempts to contact the student regarding the allegations are not successful, a Conduct Hold may be placed on the account and be released after the student has satisfactorily participated in the conduct meeting.

At the meeting, the student will be provided an explanation of the alleged violation(s). They will have the opportunity to provide their information regarding the alleged incident, provide witness contact information, and be given the opportunity to accept or not accept responsibility. At this time the respondent may be allowed to participate in an informal resolution process. The informal resolution process is structured to resolve violations or conflicts at the earliest stage possible. This process is intended to be flexible while providing a wide range of resolution opportunities. In most situations, informal resolutions will fall within three primary categories:

The respondent takes responsibility for violating the policy and accepts a sanction and end to the conduct process; or
An alternative resolution method is agreed upon by the college and the respondent (and sometimes other parties involved). Examples of alternative resolution methods include mediation or restorative activities; or
Conduct Officer will resolve the matter informally through the implementation of sanctions and supportive measures to all parties involved.

A Notice of Proposed Disciplinary Action Letter will be electronically sent to the TCC student email. If the student does accept responsibility for the violation, sanctions will be discussed and imposed. Decisions reached at the meeting will be final with no option to appeal. Failure to complete the education sanction(s) will result in a Conduct Hold, an additional violation of the Code of Student Conduct, or a decision being made based on the information available at the time.

F.4 – Formal Student Conduct Meeting

Where suspension or expulsion from the College is a possible sanction if found responsible, a Formal Student Conduct Meeting with either the Manager of Conduct and Community Standards or the designee will be requested. A Notification of Allegation letter will be sent electronically to the student’s TCC email with an appointment in place. The student will be expected to attend the meeting at the designated time to prevent any further conduct actions. At the conclusion of a Formal Student Conduct Meeting, the Conduct Officer may refer the case to a Code of Student Conduct hearing if further development of the facts is warranted and would be aided by a more formal process, the hearing panel will be designated to make any findings. Students have the right to be accompanied by a support person.

F.5 – Interim Suspension

To quickly respond to an emergent situation, TCC may institute an Interim Suspension of a student from some or all TCC-owned and controlled property and programs (may include remotely delivered courses). An Interim Suspension of a student will be instituted if there is an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual. Students will be notified of their removal and will have a right to appeal this removal to a hearing board.

Appeals should be submitted on the form provided on the TCC Report It website. The written appeal will be reviewed by the Dean of Student Success and Campus Operations or designee. The following will be reviewed: the initial reason for removal, any new information that is made available, and other pertinent information provided by the student. The purpose of this review is not to determine responsibility, but to determine if there is a continuing threat to the physical health and safety of a TCC student or other party.

The hearing board or designee will issue one of the following sanctions: dismiss, modify, or affirm the Emergency Removal. The decision of the hearing board is final.

F.6 – Student Conduct Hearing Process

Hearing procedures are provided for allegations against an individual where suspension or expulsion from the College is possible, if found responsible. Formal rules or technical rules of evidence, such as are provided in criminal or civil court, are not used in Code of Student Conduct hearings. In hearings in which suspension or expulsion is determined as a sanction, the standard for determining a sanction will be by the preponderance of evidence that the behavior did occur. In effort to protect students FERPA rights, the hearing will be closed to the public and confidential as required by law. The College Hearing and Appeals Board will be composed minimally of a Chair and two members of the college community. The Vice President of Student Success and Equity or designee will appoint the chair and College community members. Unless otherwise determined, the hearing panel will consist of a Chair, and two additional faculty or staff members.

Pre-Hearing Procedures: The complainant and responding party will receive a written notice at least seven business days before the hearing. The notice will be sent electronically to the student’s TCC email address. The notification letter will include date, time, place, and nature of the hearing; explanation of the alleged violation; any known witness names; information about and their role in the hearing, and/or any other pertinent information to assist the student in preparing for the hearing.
Two Days in Advance of the Hearing: The reporting and responding parties will provide the office of Student Conduct and Community Standards copies of documents to be presented at the hearing and the names of witnesses who will be called. Each student is responsible for notifying their witnesses of the date, time, and location of the hearing. The reporting and responding parties will have access to copies of any documents to be presented at the hearing. The reporting and responding parties must provide notice if they will be accompanied by a support person.
Hearing Procedures: If the complainant or responding party elects not to appear for the hearing, the hearing will be held in their absence. Findings will be based on information presented at the hearing. The hearing provides a forum where all the information and documents can be presented and where questions can be asked of all parties. The Chair will have procedural authority during the hearing. The order of presentation at the hearing is described in the Student Conduct Hearing Script and will be provided to all parties. The complainant and responding parties can present witnesses, who may be questioned by the hearing panel. Questioning by the reporting or responding parties is allowed, through the chair so long as it is relevant. The complainant and responding parties will only speak to the Chair and committee members. All questions will be posed through the Chair. The Student Code of Conduct officer will be present to provide evidence and testimony and respond to questions involving the imposed or proposed sanction. The complaining or responding parties support person may not act or speak on behalf of the party but offer guidance in a non-disruptive manner. The committee will make their decision and inform the office of the manager of conduct within seven College days after the hearing unless circumstances require additional time. The College Hearing and Appeals Board may impose any disciplinary sanction outlined in the Student Code of Conduct. The Conduct officer or designee will forward a notification letter via TCC email to the responding party, which will include their right to appeal the decision of the College Hearing and Appeals Board. The letter will include the decision, any resulting sanction(s), and the rationale for the decision.

F.7 – Appeals

An appeal from the imposed or proposed sanction of the formal conduct process may be made by the responding party to the Manager of Student Conduct. An appeal does not represent a new hearing. Appeals will be heard by the College Hearing and Appeals Board. A link to the electronic Student Conduct Appeal form will be provided in the notification letter.

An appeal must be in writing, signed and dated by the responding party, and submitted via the link provided in the resolution letter within three days after the notice of disciplinary action is sent to the responding party.

The appeal must cite at least one criterion as the reason for the appeal. Criteria for an appeal include:

A procedural or substantive error that significantly prejudiced the rights of the appealing party; deviations alone from designated procedures will not be a basis for sustaining an appeal.
New information that was not available at the time of the hearing. To consider new information, it must be sufficient to alter a decision or other relevant facts not brought out in the original hearing, only such information and/or facts that were not known at the time of the original decision or for some other justifiable reason was not presented earlier will be considered.

The College Hearing and Appeals Board may take any of the following actions relating to the appeal:

Uphold the disciplinary sanction(s)
Overturn the disciplinary sanction and remand the matter back to the Student Code of Conduct Officer or board for review or refer to a newly appointed College Hearing and Appeals Board for further consideration

The decision of the College Hearing and Appeals Board shall be final and there shall be no further appeal within this institution.

SH.11.G – Sanctions

Any student found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct is subject to one or more of the following sanctions. The sanctions listed below are not intended to serve as an exhaustive list of all sanctions the College may use. The following actions could also take place as a result of other institutional reviews outside of the conduct process:

G.1 – Written Warning

An official written notice that the student has violated College policies and that more severe conduct action will result should the student be involved in other violations while the student is enrolled at the College.

G.2 – Educational Activities

Work assignments, essays, and service to the College, program participation, or other related educational activities, including but not limited to; letter of apology, presentation of a workshop, preparation of a research paper or project, community service, evaluation of any referral assessment, or counseling.

G.3 – Counseling Assessment

Referral for assessment at a counseling center for alcohol/drug concerns, general mental health, or other counseling concerns.

G.4 – Restitution

Reimbursement for damages to or misappropriation of property. Reimbursement may take the form of appropriate service to repair or otherwise compensate for damages.

G.5 – Conduct Probation

A specified period of time during which the student is placed on formal notice that they are not in good standing with the College and that further violations of College regulations will subject them to suspension or expulsion from the College.

G.6 – Class Removal

When a student is dropped from a class or moved to another section of a class. Faculty members, in consultation with the Student Code of Conduct Officer or designee, reserve the right to remove a student from class pending a hearing for alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct occurring in the classroom that substantially interfere with teaching or other students’ ability to learn.

G.7 – No Contact Order

An absolute prohibition from contact with specified person or persons in any form whatsoever, including, but not limited to, contact in person, by phone, electronically, or through another person. A No Contact Order may be implemented as an interim measure for Title IX issues. Interim measures can be put in place without a formal complaint, conduct process, or a finding of responsibility. Violating a No Contact Order may result in suspension from the College.

G.8 – Restriction

A limitation on a student’s privileges for a period of time and may include, but not be limited to, the denial of the use of facilities or access to parts of campus, denial of the right to represent the College, or denial of participation in extracurricular activities not directly associated with academics (e.g., intramural sports, organizations/clubs/associations, or leadership positions on campus, or other organizations). Students must apply to re-instate the privilege by submitting documentation of their significant proactive efforts to become good citizens of the community and engage in responsible, productive behavior.

G.9 – Revocation of Admission and/or Degree

Admission to TCC, a College program, or a degree awarded from the College may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of College standards in obtaining the admission or degree, or for other serious violations committed while a student at TCC.

G.10 – Suspension

Separation/ exclusion from all classes and other privileges or activities for a specific period of time as set forth in the notice of suspension. If a transcript is requested during the period of suspension, a letter will be sent with the transcript to the requesting party/institution stating the student is under suspension for conduct reasons. Only unofficial transcripts will be released to the student directly. Any refund of tuition or fees will be subject to the College’s normal withdrawal process.

G.11 – Expulsion

Permanent termination of student status without possibility of readmission to the College. This is not noted on the student transcript; however, a permanent record of the action is maintained in the student’s record in the Registrar’s Office. If a transcript is requested during the period of expulsion, a letter will be sent with the transcript to the requesting party/institution stating the student has been expelled for conduct reasons. Only unofficial transcripts will be released to the student directly. Expulsion becomes a permanent part of a student’s conduct record. Any refund of tuition or fees will be subject to the College’s normal withdrawal process.

G.12 – Restorative Actions

Requiring a student to engage in actions to restore the impact of a violation and repair the harms resulting from misconduct on other members of the community.

Students who are separated from the College due to a Student Code of Conduct sanction such as suspension or dismissal are not automatically withdrawn from the classes they are enrolled in. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the Enrollment Services office to address withdrawal concerns.

Sanctions are commensurate with the violation, however, subsequent violations often result in more serious disciplinary sanctions. In addition to previous violations, the following is a partial list of factors considered in determining appropriate sanctions:

The nature of the violation
A student’s level of involvement in the violation
Actual harm caused by the behavior or the potential risk of harm
The impact on the community
The severity or pervasiveness of the behavior
The student’s level of cooperation and compliance

Each student’s situation is evaluated individually when considering other mitigating and aggravating factors.

SH.11.H – Supportive Measures

Supportive Measures may be imposed upon either party before and/or after the resolution process to restore and maintain equal access to education and protect the safety of both parties. The application of Supportive Measures is not a determination of responsibility for either party.
Examples of Supportive Measures are but not limited to:

No Contact Order for one or both parties
Extension of deadlines or other course-related adjustments
Modification of work or class schedules
Escorts by TCC Police
Restrictions from certain areas of campus
Meeting with support staff at TCC
Community Standards Discussion

SH.11.I – Parental Notification

Tulsa Community College reserves the right to notify the parents/guardians of dependent students regarding any conduct situation, particularly alcohol and other drug violations. The College may also notify the parents/guardians of non-dependent students under the age of 21 of alcohol and other drug violations. Parental notification may also be utilized discretionarily by administrators when permitted by FERPA or consent of the student.

SH.11.J – Failure to Comply

All students, as members of the College community, are expected to comply with conduct sanctions within the timeframe specified by a Student of Conduct Officer or designee. Failure to follow through on conduct sanctions by the date specified, whether by refusal, neglect, or any other reason, may result in additional sanctions and a Conduct Hold. A Conduct Hold restricts enrollment and may restrict transcript release. Cancellation of enrollment occurs when a previous Dean’s hold has been cleared with the condition that the enrollment will be cancelled for failure to meet the conditions of the clearance. If cancelled, the refund of tuition or fees will be subject to the College’s normal withdrawal process. A graduation hold is a hold on a student’s participation in graduation exercises and diploma for failure to respond to a request to meet with the Student Code of Conduct Officer or designee, or for noncompliance with conduct sanctions. The Associate Vice President of Student Success may recommend a graduation hold.

SH.11.K – Implementation of Sanctions

Student Code of Conduct actions or grievance decisions will not be implemented until the time for appeal has expired, until the entire appeal process is completed or until the individual voluntarily waives the right to appeal in writing. The exceptions to delaying sanctions until the process is complete include: 1) when emergency removal has been imposed; or 2) to protect the well-being of students on the campus.

SH.11.L – Revisions

The procedures and policies outlined above supersede all previous statements and policies of Tulsa Community College with respect to student rights and responsibilities as may appear in any Tulsa Community College publication. The College reserves the right to change the Student Code of Conduct policies and procedures throughout the academic year. Once those changes are posted online, they are in effect.

SH.11.M – Conduct Files and Records

Student conduct records are property of Tulsa Community College and maintained by the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), Student conduct records may include incident reports, hearing documentation, audio recordings and other case related information. All student conduct records are maintained in an electronic database for a minimum of seven years from the time of their creation except those that result in separation (suspension or expulsion) and those that fall under Title IX, which are maintained indefinitely by the College.

All conduct records are education records and may not be disclosed in whole or in part except as provided by law, by written authorization of the student, under legal compulsion or where the safety of persons may be involved. Conduct records are maintained separate from the student’s academic record but are part of the student’s educational record.

Records on student organizations are not confidential and may be released.

Notification within the College of conduct action taken against students is made on a “need to know” basis.

SH.11.N – Petition to Return

Students who are suspended from TCC for violations of the TCC Student Code of Conduct will be required to submit a Petition to Return to TCC and be approved to return. It is the intention that a students’ time away from campus will be a time of self-reflection and growth. Students should engage in activities that will help them grow stronger and succeed academically once they return to TCC.

A Personal Statement is required as a part of the Petition to Return process. The student has the option to attach information or evidence that supports their positive return as a student to the TCC community. Decisions on whether to allow a student to return when separated due to a behavioral concern, will be made by the Dean of Student Success and Campus Operations in consultation with Senior College Administration. Decisions will be made after reviewing all information regarding the original case and the information submitted in the Petition to Return process.

Examples of evidence includes but are not required or limited to: Verification of Community Service, Completion of self-improvement courses such as anger management or substance abuse, confirmation of personal counseling, proof of employment, or written references from community members.

A link to the Petition to Return form is available on the TCC Report It page.

Special Note Regarding COVID-19 and Remote Instruction and Services

The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards will follow the guidelines set forth by Tulsa Community College. Health and safety measures required by the college may impact or alter the delivery of in-person services to the student. During this time, the code of student conduct is in effect and TCC conduct officers will continue to work with students to resolve alleged violations of the code of student conduct. This may include conducting meetings or hearings using Zoom or other remote technologies. TCC will notify the complainant and respondent of the potential changes and will work with all parties to preserve the fairness of any proceeding.