DSCC Student Handbook

The DSCC Student Handbook provides students with the following:

Student Procedures

Student Rights and Freedoms

Student Policies

Student Resources

Student Organizations

Student Procedures

DSCC students should be aware of the following procedures:

Drops, Adds, Withdrawals and Change of Course Sections:

One of the most important procedures for students is that of schedule changes or withdrawals. If a student fails to follow the correct procedure, he/she may receive an “F” in all classes that were not correctly dropped or withdrawn, or he/she may fail to receive credit for courses that were not correctly added or changed.

In addition, changes in a student’s schedule can affect his/her eligibility for financial aid as well as his/her eligibility to participate in intercollegiate athletics. Student athletes should review with their academic advisor the eligibility requirements of the National Junior College Athletic Association prior to any adjustments in their academic schedule.

Within the stated timeframe listed in the Academic Calendar, students can make changes to their class schedule by accessing Self-Service Banner through MyDSCC.

Correct Address and Telephone Number:

Each student should keep his/her address and telephone number up to date with the Office of Admission and Records. Students may change their mailing address and telephone number(s) online by accessing Self-Service Banner through MyDSCC. To change their permanent address, students should contact a DSCC One Stop Center on the Dyersburg campus located in the Student Center (731-286-3350), the Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County located in the Jimmy Naifeh Building (901-475-3100) or the Henry County Center (731-407-7300). Be prepared to provide proof of identification. For name changes, contact the One Stop Center on the Dyersburg campus or a DSCC Center to provide documentation to support the name change.

Records (Transcripts):

Records of students’ grades are kept permanently by the Office of Admissions and Records. Since these records are permanent and are frequently referred to for the purpose of supplying information to legitimate sources, such as future employers, students should be aware that they are building a future and striving for success will benefit them while enrolled and even after graduation.

Assistance Available to Students with Disabilities:

DSCC is committed to providing a discrimination-free environment for its students with disabilities. Students with disabilities are encouraged to inform the College of any assistance they may need. Please contact Sherry Baker, Counselor/ADA Coordinator, at 731-286-3242 or email sdbaker@dscc.edu. Ms. Baker has appointments available at all DSCC locations.

Early self-identification will allow the student to receive reasonable accommodations he or she may need as quickly as possible. The process of self-identification is as follows:

• The student should notify the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator of any disability for which the College may need to provide assistance.
• Students are asked to provide documentation that is no more than three (3) years old concerning their disability and participate in an interview with the ADA Coordinator. Specific services are based on individual student’s needs and circumstances. The ADA Coordinator’s ability to determine the best response may be limited without requested documentation.
• Following the initial interview, the ADA Coordinator will coordinate DSCC’s response to the student’s needs with faculty, library and support personnel who will be working with the student during the semester. The College may enlist the assistance of other agencies and resource centers in meeting the student’s needs.
• Disability information is confidential and will not be disclosed without individual consent.

Students who feel they have received unequal treatment because of a disability should contact Ms. Baker, who will seek to resolve the complaint. If the resolution does not meet the student’s need, the student may then contact the Dean of Student Services to initiate formal complaint procedures. The College complaint procedure does not prevent an individual’s pursuit of other remedies, such as the filing of an ADA complaint with the responsible federal department or agency. For more information about the Americans with Disabilities Act and as it applies to higher education, please view the resources provided online by the U.S. Department of Education https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html.

Student Rights and Freedoms

Student Rights and Freedoms are addressed in DSCC Policy 04:04:01:00

Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students, and the general well-being of society. Free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the attainment of these goals. As members of the academic community, students should be encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in a sustained and independent search for truth. Following are standards of academic freedom of DSCC students.

Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus and in the larger community. Students should exercise their freedom with responsibility.

Freedom of Access to Higher Education:

DSCC has developed admission standards, approved by the Tennessee Board of Regents, which make clear the characteristics and expectations of students which it considers relevant to success in programs offered at DSCC. No student will be barred from admission on the basis of race. DSCC is open to all students who are qualified according to the DSCC admission criteria. DSCC’s facilities are open to all of its enrolled students, and services are available to all students with the exception of those services or programs restricted by federal, state, TBR or institutional mandates.

In the Classroom:

Faculty in the classroom and in conference should encourage free discussion, inquiry, and expression. Student performance should be evaluated solely on an academic basis, not on opinions or conduct in matters unrelated to academic standards.

  1.   Protection of Freedom of Expression

Students should be free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion, but they are responsible for learning the content of any course of study for which they are enrolled.

  2.   Protection against Improper Academic Evaluation

Students should have protection through orderly procedures against prejudiced or capricious academic evaluation. At the same time, they are responsible for maintaining standards of academic performance established for each course in which they are enrolled.

   3.   Protection against Improper Disclosure

Certain information about students is protected from public disclosure by federal and state laws. Protection against improper disclosure is a serious professional obligation. Judgments of ability and character may be provided under appropriate circumstances.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records.

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the College receives a request for access.

Students should submit to the Director of Admissions and Records, Dean of Student Services, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, written request that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. If the records are not maintained by the DSCC official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom they request should be addressed.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading.

Students may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the DSCC official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally-identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the educational institution in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the educational institution has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agency); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

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

Under the provisions of FERPA, DSCC may disclose directory information to any person requesting it without the consent of the student.

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

The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Student Policies

Release of Information Concerning Students:

The release of information concerning students is addressed in DSCC Policy 04:02:02:00.

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), DSCC may disclose directory information to any person requesting it without the consent of the student. Directory information includes the student’s name, address, telephone number, email address, date and place of birth, major field of study, photograph, participation in officially-recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, enrollment status, degrees and awards received, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended by the student.

The College provides each student the opportunity to refuse to allow disclosure of any designated directory information. Students wishing to refuse disclosure should contact the Office of Admissions and Records at the beginning of each academic term.

Faculty members may not publicly post student grades using any portion of the student’s Social Security number.

Any request for information about a student by law enforcement agencies should be referred to the Office of Admissions and Records.

Access to Records:

Students can have access to official school records that directly concern them by filing a request electronically on the DSCC webpage https://www.dscc.edu/transcript-request. Paper forms for this purpose are available at the DSCC One Stops.  Records may be reviewed, and students may challenge the records if inaccuracies are found. Currently enrolled students can view their academic transcript online by accessing Self-Service Banner through MyDSCC.

Guidelines on Discrimination and Harassment:

Based on the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) Guideline P-080, it is the intent of DSCC to fully comply with the applicable provisions of federal and state civil rights laws including, but not limited to, Executive Order 11246, as amended; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended; the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Act of 1974, as amended; the Equal Pay Act of 1963, as amended; Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act of 1972, as amended; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975; the Pregnancy Discrimination Act; the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008; and regulations promulgated pursuant hereto. DSCC will promote equal opportunity for all persons without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation/gender identity/expression, disability, age (as applicable), status as a covered veteran, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal and state civil rights law.

DSCC affirms that they will not tolerate discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation/gender identity/expression, disability, age (as applicable), status as a covered veteran, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal and state civil rights law.

Similarly, DSCC shall not subject any student to discrimination or harassment under any educational program, and no student shall be discriminatorily excluded from participation or denied the benefits of any educational program on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation/gender identity/expression, disability, age (as applicable), status as a covered veteran, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal and state civil rights law.

A. Discrimination

Discrimination may occur by:

1. Treating individuals less favorably because of their race, color, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation/gender identity/expression, disability, age (as applicable), status as a covered veteran, genetic information, or any other category protected by federal or state civil rights law; or,
2. Having a policy or practice that has a disproportionately adverse impact on protected class members.

B. Harassment

Harassment is conduct that is based on a person’s race, color, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation/gender identity/expression, disability, age (as applicable), status as a covered veteran, genetic information, or any other category protected by federal or state civil rights law, that:

1. Adversely affects a term or condition of an individual’s employment, education, participation in an institution’s activities or living environment;
2. Has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s employment or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, offensive or abusive environment for that individual; or
3. Is used as a basis for or a factor in decisions that tangibly affect that individual’s employment, education, participation in an institution’s activities or living environment.

Examples of such conduct include, but are not limited to, verbal or physical conduct relating to an employee’s national origin, race, surname, skin color or accent; offensive or derogatory jokes based on a protected category; racial or ethnic slurs; pressure for dates or sexual favors; unwelcome comments about a person’s religion or religious garments; offensive graffiti, cartoons or pictures; or offensive remarks about a person’s age.

Not every act that might be offensive to an individual or a group will be considered harassment. Whether the alleged conduct constitutes harassment depends upon the record as a whole and the totality of the circumstances, such as the nature of the conduct in the context within which the alleged incident occurs. Harassment does not include verbal expressions or written material that is relevant and appropriately related to course subject matter or curriculum.

Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act:

The Federal Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act and the Tennessee College and University Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2002 require that whenever a sex offender becomes employed, enrolls as a student or volunteers at an institution of higher education in the State of Tennessee, he or she must complete or update the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) sexual offender registration/monitoring form and deliver it to TBI headquarters in Nashville. As defined in section 40-39-102 of the Tennessee Code, a “sexual offender” means a person who is, or has been, convicted in this state of committing a sexual offense or who is, or has been, convicted in another state or another country, or who is or has been convicted in a federal or military court of committing an act which would have constituted a sexual offense if it had been committed in this state. A “sexual offense” means the commission of acts including, but not limited to, aggravated and statutory rape, sexual battery, sexual exploitation of a minor, aggravated prostitution and kidnapping.

Both Acts designate certain information concerning a registered sexual offender as public information and therefore amend and supersede the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other federal and state laws that previously prohibited the disclosure of such personal information. Since the laws require the publication of information pertaining to sexual offenders employed, enrolled or volunteering at an educational institution, said publication does not constitute grounds for a grievance or complaint under institutional or Tennessee Board of Regents policies or procedures.

Class Attendance Policy:

Class Attendance is addressed in DSCC Policy 03:04:03:00.

Regular class attendance is essential to student success in college. Absence from the classroom negatively affects student success and learning outcomes. DSCC has established the following Class Attendance Policy which is applicable to all students attending classes both in person and online.

1. Attendance at all class sessions and regular participation in any online course for which a student is registered are expected.
2. Absences will be counted from the first meeting of the class.
3. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the instructor prior to an absence from class or shortly after the absence. The instructor will determine whether an absence is excused or unexcused.
4. The student is responsible for all work and/or lecture material covered in any missed class session. The instructor will determine whether to accept makeup work for the class.
5. Students who have three consecutive unexcused absences from a class that meets three hours per week, or two consecutive unexcused absences from a class that meets twice weekly, or one unexcused absence from a class that meets once weekly in a three-hour block will be reported as “stopped attending.” Students who do not participate in an online course for one week will be reported as “stopped attending.”
6. Students who exhibit a pattern of absences, even if not consecutive, may also be reported as “stopped attending.”
7. A “stopped attending” designation may negatively impact receipt of current and future financial aid.
8. It is the student’s responsibility to officially withdraw from a course if a “stopped attending” designation is reported or if continuing, regular attendance proves impossible. In these circumstances, failure to withdraw from a course by the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar will result in a grade of “F” and may negatively impact eligibility for future financial aid and/or continued enrollment. Please note that a grade of “W” may also negatively impact eligibility for future financial aid.
9. Failure to contact the instructor prior to an absence may result in the designation of the absence as being “unexcused.”
10. Students wishing to appeal a determination of an unexcused absence or “stopped attending” designation should attempt to resolve the matter with the instructor within five days from the last date of attendance. If the student still wishes to appeal, he/she must present the matter in writing to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success within five days after attempting to clarify or resolve the matter with the instructor. The Vice President should receive the appeal within ten days after the last date of attendance. After the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success receives the appeal, a hold will be placed on the student’s account during the appeal process. The Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success will render a final decision within ten days. If the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Success denies the appeal, unearned financial aid money will be returned to the federal government (as required by federal law), and the student may have an account balance. It should be noted that if an appeal is not requested, any unearned financial aid money will be returned to the federal government, and the student will have to repay unearned financial aid money.
11. Nothing in this policy shall be construed as preventing an instructor from having a more restrictive attendance policy regarding absences for an individual class.

Class Attendance during Inclement Weather/Hazardous Conditions:

Students should use their own discretion in attending classes when snow and/or icy conditions exist. The student is responsible for making up any missed work and for getting the information presented in the missed classes. If a student misses an exam, then the student should make arrangements immediately to make up the exam.

Delayed Schedule

If an announcement is made for the Delayed Schedule, the following schedule will be in effect:

LAB - AN ALTERNATE SCHEDULE FOR ALL LABS BEGINNING BEFORE 12:00 NOON WILL BE ANNOUNCED BY THE INSTRUCTOR IN CLASS.

REMEMBER, EVENING CLASSES (4:30 P.M. OR LATER) AND CLASSES BEGINNING AT 12:10 P.M. OR LATER ARE INCLUDED IN THIS DELAYED SNOW SCHEDULE. EVENING CLASSES WILL EITHER BE CANCELED OR HELD ON THE REGULAR SCHEDULE.

On-Campus vs. Center and Off-Campus Information

The general rule for classes that meet at DSCC Centers and at other locations:

1. DSCC classes that normally meet at area high schools will be canceled if those facilities close due to bad weather. If an area high school closes due to inclement weather, any Dual Enrollment classes held at DSCC or at that high school will be canceled as well.
2. Classes at the DSCC Henry County Center and the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County will be subject to the same procedures as the Dyersburg Campus unless otherwise indicated.

Bringing Children to Class:

Bringing children to class is addressed in DSCC Policy 04:04:02:00.

The presence of children in the college classroom, especially small children, constitutes a distraction for the instructor, as well as other members of the class, and, therefore, compromises the effectiveness of the learning environment. An instructor may ask a student who brings a child to class to leave.

While parents are in classes, children should not be allowed to be unattended in college common areas such as the gymnasium, study lounges, and hallways. These areas were not designed to accommodate children, especially young children not under constant supervision by adults. The College is primarily a place for adults, and it is anticipated that when children are brought into college facilities, it is for a brief period while parents are conducting administrative business or for a special program for children sponsored by the College.

Student Conduct Policy:

Student conduct is addressed in DSCC Policy 04:03:01:00.

Students enrolled in DSCC are citizens of their civic communities as well as the academic community. As such they are expected to conduct themselves as law-abiding members of each community at all times.

Admission to DSCC carries with its special privileges and imposes special responsibilities apart from those rights and duties enjoyed by non-students. In recognition of the special relationship that exists between DSCC and the academic community which it seeks to serve, the Tennessee Board of Regents (“TBR” or “the Board”) has authorized the presidents of the institutions under its jurisdiction to take such action as may be necessary to maintain conditions on DSCC owned and controlled property and to preserve the integrity of DSCC and its educational environment.

Pursuant to this authorization and in fulfillment of its duties to provide a secure and stimulating atmosphere in which individual and academic pursuits may flourish, DSCC has developed the following policy, which is intended to govern student conduct under its jurisdiction.

DSCC under the jurisdiction of the TBR is directed to implement policies subject to, and consistent with, TBR Policy 03.02.00.01 General Policy on Student Conduct.

In addition, students are subject to all federal, state and local laws and ordinances. If a student’s violation of such laws or ordinances also adversely affects DSCC’s pursuit of its educational objectives, DSCC may enforce its own policies regardless of the status or outcome of any external proceedings instituted by other civil or criminal authorities.

Students are responsible for compliance with this policy and with college policies and regulations. Disciplinary action may be taken against a student for violation of policies and regulations that occur on DSCC owned, leased or otherwise controlled property, while participating in international or distance learning programs, and off campus, when the conduct impairs, interferes with, or obstructs any college activity or the mission, processes and functions of the college. In the case of violations that occur off college owned, leased or controlled property, DSCC will consider whether the violation impairs, interferes with or obstructs any college activity, or the mission, processes and function of the college, including, but not limited to, conduct that:

• occurs in connection with any DSCC activity, including but not limited to, international, distance, online, or remote learning programs, athletics events and other extracurricular activities, clinical, internship, practicum, and similar activities;
• occurs while using DSCC resources, such as computers and network systems;
• involves or affects another member of the TBR community (a student, faculty, staff member, or guest of a TBR institution); or
• poses a credible, serious threat to the health and safety of the college community.

This policy, and related material incorporated herein by reference, is applicable to student organizations as well as individual students. Whether a student organization will be held responsible for a violation of these rules by one or more of its members will be based on the following considerations:

• the violation is endorsed by the student organization or any of its officers.  “Endorsed by” includes, but is not limited to, active or passive consent or support, having prior knowledge that the conduct was likely to occur, or helping to plan, advertise, or promote the conduct;
• the violation took place during the course of an activity paid for by the student organization or by members of the student organization to support the activity in question;
• the prohibited conduct occurred on property owned, controlled, rented, leased, or used by the student organization or any of its members for an organizational event;
• the prohibited conduct was related to initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in the student organization; and
• one or more officers of the student organization had prior knowledge or reasonably should have known the prohibited conduct would likely take place.

Confidentiality of Discipline Process

Subject to the exceptions provided pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. 1232g, the Tennessee Public Records Act, T.C.A. § 10-7-504, and/or other state and federal law, a student’s disciplinary records and files are considered “education records” and are confidential in accordance with those statutes.

Matters involving sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence, and dating violence occurring within an education program or activity, if within the scope of TBR Policy 6.03.00.00, Sexual Misconduct, / DSCC Policy 10:04:02:00 Sexual Misconduct which implements 34 C.F.R. Part 106 related to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, shall proceed in accordance with TBR Policy 6.03.00.00, Sexual Misconduct / DSCC Policy 10:04:02:00 Sexual Misconduct, and not this policy.

Disciplinary Offenses:

Disciplinary measures shall be imposed according to this policy and applicable procedures and processes. DSCC shall use the “preponderance of the evidence” standard.  A preponderance of the evidence means the greater weight of the evidence or that, according to the evidence, the conclusion sought by the party with the burden of proof is the more probable conclusion.  These rules shall not be used to violate rights guaranteed under the constitution of the State of Tennessee or the constitution of the United States. The following represents a non-exclusive list of offenses or violations for which both individuals and student organizations may be subject to disciplinary action.

1. Threatening Conduct. Any conduct, threatened conduct, or attempted conduct that, poses a threat to a person’s safety, health, or personal well-being including, but not limited to, endangering the health, safety, or welfare of any person; engaging in conduct that causes a reasonable person to fear harm to his or her health, safety or welfare; or making an oral or written statement that an objectively reasonable person hearing or reading the statement would interpret as a serious expression of an intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals;

2. Disruptive Conduct.  Any conduct, threatened conduct, or attempted conduct that is disruptive to the college’s learning environment, including, but not limited to, engaging in any action that interferes with the ability of the instructor to teach or other students to learn. Disruptive conduct in the class setting (which includes but is not limited to remote education and off-site locations) includes, but is not limited to, behavior that obstructs or disrupts the learning environment (e.g., offensive language, harassment of students or instructors, repeated outbursts from a student that disrupt the flow of instruction or prevent concentration, failure to cooperate in maintaining class decorum, etc.), text messaging, and the continued use of any electronic or other noise or light emitting device which disturbs others;

3. Hazing. Hazing, as defined in T.C.A. § 49-7-123(a)(1), means any intentional or reckless act, on or off the property, of any higher education institution by an individual acting alone, or with others, which is directed against any other person(s) that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that person(s), or which induces or coerces a person(s) to endanger such person(s) mental or physical health or safety. Hazing does not include customary athletic events or similar contests or competitions, and is limited to those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization;

4. Disorderly Conduct. Any individual or group behavior which is abusive, obscene, lewd, indecent (including, without limitation, public exposure of one’s sex organs, public urinating, and public sexual acts), violent, excessively noisy, disorderly, or which unreasonably disturbs college functions, operations, classrooms, other groups or individuals;

5. Obstruction of or Interference with college activities or facilities. Any intentional interference with or obstruction of any college, program, event, or facility including but not limited to the following:

• Any unauthorized occupancy of facilities owned or controlled by DSCC or blockage of access to or from such facilities;

• Interference with the right of DSCC institution member or other authorized person to gain access to any activity, program, event or facilities sponsored or controlled by DSCC;

• Any obstruction or delay of a security officer, public safety officer, police officer, firefighter, EMT, or any DSCC official, or failure to comply with any emergency directive issued by such person in the performance of their duty; 

• Participation in a demonstration that substantially impedes college operations; or

• Obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on property owned, leased or controlled by DSCC or at a college activity.

6. Misuse of or Damage to Property. Any act of misuse, vandalism, malicious or unwarranted damage or destruction, defacing, disfiguring or unauthorized use of property belonging to DSCC or a member of the TBR community including, but not limited to, any personal property, fire alarms, fire equipment, elevators, telephones, college keys, library materials and/or safety devices;

7. Theft, Misappropriation, or Unauthorized Sale of Property;

8. Misuse of Documents or Identification Cards. Any forgery, alteration of or unauthorized use of DSCC documents, forms, records or identification cards, including the giving of any false information, or withholding of necessary information, in connection with a student’s admission, enrollment or status in the college;

9. Weapons. Possessing, carrying, using, storing, or manufacturing any weapon on DSCC controlled property or in connection with a college affiliated activity, unless federal or state law provides a student with an affirmative right to possess or carry a weapon on college-controlled property or in connection with a college-affiliated activity.  (Refer to Guidance on Firearms on Campus, Exhibit #1);

10. Explosives, Fireworks, Flammable, and Hazardous Materials. The unauthorized possession, ignition or detonation of any object or article that represents a potential danger to the DSCC community, including, but not limited to, explosives, fireworks, flammable materials, ammunition, hazardous liquids, chemicals, or hazardous materials;

11. Alcoholic Beverages and Alcohol-Related Conduct. The use, possession, and/or sale of alcoholic beverages on DSCC owned or controlled property or in connection with any college activity unless expressly permitted by DSCC;

12. Drugs. The unlawful possession, use, sale, or manufacture of any drug or controlled substance (including, but not limited to, any stimulant, depressant, narcotic or hallucinogenic drug, or marijuana). This offense includes using or possessing a prescription drug if the prescription was not issued to the student, as well as the violation of any local ordinance, state, or federal law concerning the unlawful possession or use of drugs;

13. Drug Paraphernalia. The use, possession, distribution, sale, or manufacture of equipment, products or materials that are used or intended for use in manufacturing, growing, using or distributing any drug or controlled substance. This offense includes the violation of any local ordinance, state, or federal law concerning the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia;

14. Public Intoxication. Appearing on DSCC owned or controlled property or at a college sponsored event while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or of any other intoxicating substance;

15. Gambling. Unlawful gambling in any form;

16. Financial Irresponsibility. Failure to meet financial responsibilities to the college promptly including, but not limited to, knowingly passing a worthless check or money order in payment to the college;

17. Unacceptable Conduct Related to Disciplinary Proceedings. Any conduct at any stage of a college disciplinary proceeding or investigation that is contemptuous, threatening, retaliatory, or disorderly, including false complaints, false testimony or other falsification of evidence, and attempts to influence the impartiality of a member of an adjudicatory body, verbal or physical harassment or intimidation of a college official, hearing panel member, complainant, respondent or witness;

18. Failure to Cooperate with College Officials. Failure to comply with reasonable directions of DSCC officials acting in the performance of their duties. This includes, but is not limited to, failing to respond to a request to report to a college administrative office, failing to cooperate in a college investigation, and/or failing to appear at a college hearing, including, without limitation, a disciplinary hearing;

19. Attempts, Aiding and Abetting. Any attempt to commit any of the offenses listed under this section or the aiding or abetting of the commission of any of the offenses listed under this section. (An attempt to commit an offense is defined as the intention to commit the offense coupled with the taking of some action toward its commission.) Being present during the planning or commission of any offense listed under this section without having made an immediate report to the college prior to the commission of the planned offense will be considered as aiding and abetting. Students who anticipate or observe an offense must remove themselves from the situation and are required to report the offense to the college;

20. Violations of State or Federal Laws. Any conviction of violation of state or federal laws, rules, or regulations prohibiting conduct or establishing offenses;

21. Violation of Imposed Disciplinary Sanctions. Intentional or unintentional violation of a disciplinary sanction imposed through a college disciplinary proceeding;

22. Sexual Misconduct. Committing any act of sexual assault, rape, sexual battery, domestic violence, or dating violence as defined by state or federal law;

23. Harassment, Stalking, or Retaliation. Any conduct that falls within T.C.A. § 39-17-308 (Harassment) or T.C.A. § 39-17-315 (Stalking) or “student-on-student harassment,” which means unwelcome conduct directed toward a person that is discriminatory on a basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law, and that is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively bars the victim’s access to educational opportunity or benefit. Engaging in “retaliation,” which is an act or omission committed by a student because of another person’s participation in a protected activity that would discourage a reasonable person from engaging in protected activity. Retaliation violates these standards regardless of whether the underlying allegation of a violation of policy is ultimately found to have merit.  Retaliation can include, without limitation: an act or omission committed against a person’s family, friends, advisors, and or other persons reasonably expected to provide information in connection with a college investigation or hearing, and an act or omission committed by a student through a third party;

24. Discrimination.  Any conduct prohibited by any federal or state law, rule, or regulation related to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation;

25. Academic Misconduct. Any action or attempted action designed to provide an unfair academic advantage or disadvantage for oneself or others. Academic misconduct includes a wide variety of behaviors such as plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, and other academic dishonesty. For purposes of this policy the following definitions apply:

• Plagiarism. The adoption or reproduction of ideas, words, statements, images, or works of another person as one’s own without proper attribution. Examples include but are not limited to copying of passages from works of others into one’s own work without acknowledgment; summarizing or paraphrasing ideas from another source without proper attribution, unless such information is recognized as common knowledge; and using facts, statistics graphs, representations, or phrases without proper attribution;

• Cheating. Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or aids in any academic exercise or test/examination. Examples include but are not limited to copying another’s work; obtaining or giving unauthorized assistance; unauthorized collaboration or collusion with another person; having another person take a test for a student; and the use of unauthorized materials or devices.  The term academic exercise includes all forms of work submitted for credit or hours;

• Fabrication. Falsifying, fabricating, or misrepresenting data, research results, citations or other information in connection with an academic assignment. Unauthorized falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise.

26. Unauthorized Duplication or Possession of Keys. Making, causing to be made or the possession of, with the intent to use or make available for use by others, any key for a college facility without proper authorization;

27. Litter. Dispersing litter in any form onto the grounds or facilities of the college;

28. Pornography. Public display of literature, films, pictures or other materials which an average person applying contemporary community standards would find, (1) taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest, (2) depicts or describes sexual conduct in a patently offensive way, and/or (3) taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value;

29. Abuse of Computer Resources and Facilities. Misusing and/or abusing college computer resources including, but not limited to the following:

• Use of another person’s identification to gain access to college computer resources;

• Use of college computer resources and facilities to violate copyright laws, including, but not limited to, the act of unauthorized distribution of copyrighted materials using college information technology systems;

• Unauthorized access to a computer or network file, including but not limited to, altering, using, reading, copying, or deleting the file;

• Unauthorized transfer of a computer or network file;

• Use of computing resources and facilities to send abusive or obscene correspondence;

• Use of computing resources and facilities in a manner that interferes with normal operation of the institutional computing system:

• Use of computing resources and facilities to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member, or college official; and

• Unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing;

30. Unauthorized Access to DSCC Facilities and/or Grounds. Any unauthorized access and/or occupancy of DSCC facilities and/or grounds is prohibited, including, but not limited to, gaining access to facilities and grounds that are closed to the public, being present in areas of the college that are open to limited guests only, being present in academic buildings after hours without permission, and being present in buildings when the student has no legitimate reason to be present;

31. Providing False Information. Giving any false information to, or withholding necessary information from, any college official acting in the performance of his or her duties in connection with a student’s admission, enrollment, or status in the college;

32. Observation Without Consent. Observation Without Consent, which is prohibited by T.C.A. § 39-13-607 (a criminal statute) for purposes of this policy, means knowingly spying upon, observing, or otherwise viewing an individual, regardless of whether a photo, video, or recording is made, when the individual is in a place where there is reasonable expectation of privacy, without the prior effective consent of the individual, if the viewing would offend or embarrass an ordinary person if the person knew the person was being viewed. This includes, but is not limited to, taking video or photographic images in shower/locker rooms, living quarters, restrooms, and storing, sharing, and/or distributing of such unauthorized images by any means;

33. Tobacco Violations. Smoking or tobacco use in any college building or facility, in any state-owned vehicle, or on any college grounds or property.  For the purposes of these rules, “tobacco use” includes, but is not limited to, the personal use of any tobacco product, whether intended to be lit or not, which includes smoking tobacco or other substances that are lit and smoked, as well as the use of an electronic cigarette or any other device intended to simulate smoking, and the use of smokeless tobacco, including snuff; chewing tobacco; smokeless pouches; any form of loose-leaf, smokeless tobacco; and the use of unlit cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco;

34. Maintenance of Ethical and Professional Standards.  Failure to maintain the high ethical and professional standards of the various disciplines of the health professions may subject a student to suspension from a program, dismissal from a program, or other appropriate remedial action.

• A student enrolled in a program leading to a degree or certificate in a health profession is subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension and dismissal from a program for engaging in the following          acts of misconduct, regardless of location;

• Commission of an offense classified as a felony by Tennessee or federal criminal statutes;

• Unlawful use, possession, or sale of drugs or narcotics, whether or not felonious;

• Other unprofessional or unethical conduct that would bring disrepute and disgrace upon both the student and profession and that would tend to substantially reduce or eliminate the student’s ability to effectively practice the profession in which discipline he or she is enrolled; or

• Conduct that is in violation of either a relevant Tennessee statute establishing professional standards or a rule or regulation of a Tennessee regulatory board or other body responsible for the establishment and enforcement of professional standards;

• A person applying for admission to a health profession program may be denied admission to the program on the basis of his or her violation of the aforementioned ethical and professional standards;

35. Traffic and Parking Fines.  Receiving $100.00 or more in traffic and/or parking violations on DSCC property or college-controlled property during any semester.

36. Indecent Exposure.  Indecent Exposure, which is prohibited by T.C.A. § 39-13-511 (a criminal statute), for purposes of this policy means in a public place intentionally exposing one’s genitals or buttocks to another or engaging in sexual contact or sexual penetration where the person reasonably expects that the acts will be viewed by another, and the acts will offend an ordinary viewer or are for the purpose of sexual arousal and/or gratification.

Disciplinary Holds.

DSCC may place a hold on a student record when the student has:

• Withdrawn from the college while a disciplinary meeting and/or proceeding is pending;
• Not responded to a DSCC official’s request for a meeting or hearing; or
• Been suspended or expelled.

A disciplinary hold may remain on a student’s record until final resolution of a disciplinary meeting and/or disciplinary hearing. DSCC will not confer a degree or credential when a student record has been placed on hold, or when a student has a pending disciplinary meeting and/or disciplinary proceeding. Except for cases involving Academic Misconduct, DSCC will not revoke a degree or credential based on conduct occurring while a person was a student, but not discovered until after the awarding of a degree or credential.

DSCC Disciplinary Sanctions:

Disciplinary sanctions may be imposed only after a violation of this policy has been established. The following disciplinary sanctions may be imposed, either singly or in combination, by the appropriate college officials:

1. Restitution. Restitution may be required in situations which involve theft, destruction, damage, or loss of property, or unreimbursed medical expenses resulting from physical injury. When restitution is required, the student or student organization is obligated by the appropriate college authority to compensate a party or parties for a loss suffered as a result of disciplinary violation(s). This action may take the form of appropriate service, monetary compensation, or material replacement. Any monetary payment in restitution shall be limited to actual cost of repair, replacement or financial loss;
2. Warning. The appropriate college official may notify orally or in writing the student or student organization that continuation or repetition of specified conduct may be cause for other disciplinary action;
3. Reprimand. A written or verbal reprimand or censure may be given to any student or student organization whose conduct violates any part of this policy and provides notice that that any further violation(s) may result in more serious penalties;
4. Service to the Institution or Community. A student, or student organization, may be required to donate a specified number of service hours to the college performing reasonable tasks for an appropriate college office, official(s), or the local community. The service required shall be commensurate to the offense (including but not limited to service for maintenance staff for defacing institutional property);
5. Specified Educational/Counseling Program. A student or student organization may be required to participate in specified educational or counseling program(s) relevant to the offense, or to prepare a project or report concerning a relevant topic;
6. Restriction. A restriction upon a student’s or student organization’s privileges for a period of time may be imposed. This restriction may include, but is not limited to denial of the ability to represent the college at any event, ability to participate in college or TBR sponsored travel, use of facilities, parking privileges, participation in extracurricular activities or restriction of organizational privileges;
7. Probation. Continued enrollment of a student or recognition of a student organization on probation may be conditioned upon adherence to this policy. Any student or organization placed on probation will be notified in writing of the terms and length of the probation. Probation may include but not be limited to restrictions upon extracurricular activities, or any other appropriate special condition(s). Any conduct in further violation of this policy while on probationary status or the failure to comply with the terms of the probationary period may result in the imposition of further disciplinary action;
8. Suspension. Suspension is the separation of a student or student organization from the college for a specified period of time. Suspension may be accompanied by special conditions for readmission or recognition;
9. Expulsion. Expulsion entails a permanent separation from the college. The imposition of this sanction is a permanent bar to the student’s admission, or a student organization’s recognition by the college. A student or organization that has been expelled may not enter college property or facilities or college-controlled property or facilities without obtaining prior approval from an appropriate college official with knowledge of the expulsion directive;
10. Revocation and Withholding of Admission, Degree, or Credential; and
11. Interim Involuntary Withdrawal or Suspension. As a general rule, the status of a student or student organization accused of violation of TBR rules, this policy, or a college policy should not be altered until a final determination has been made in regard to the charges. However, interim or involuntary withdrawal or suspension, pending the completion of disciplinary procedures, may be imposed upon a finding that the conduct, or attempted conduct of the student poses a direct threat to the safety of any other member of the college, its guests, property, or the student’s behavior is materially and substantially disruptive of the college’s learning environment or other college activities. In any case of interim or involuntary withdrawal or suspension, the student, or student organization, shall be given an opportunity at the time of the decision, or as soon thereafter as reasonably possible, to contest the suspension in accordance with this policy;

The president is authorized, either personally or through a designee, to negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution to any disciplinary proceeding or to rescind or convert any sanction imposed to a lesser sanction.

Disciplinary Procedures:

DSCC provides students with a system of constitutionally and legally sound procedures that provide the protection of due process of law in accordance with TBR Systemwide Student Rules, this policy, and applicable state and federal law.

The Dean of Student Services or other administrator designated by DSCC is responsible for matters within the scope of this policy, except that the Vice President for the College is responsible for matters related to academic misconduct.  In situations where the conduct could fall within both areas of responsibility, the two offices will confer and decide which procedures will apply and advise the student or student organization in writing of the decision.

Complaints related to discrimination, harassment, and retaliation that are not subject to another rule will be investigated and resolved in accordance with this policy:

1. In determining whether the evidence establishes a violation of college policy, DSCC shall use the preponderance of the evidence standard for contested cases, as explained in TBR Policy 1.06.00.05, Uniform Procedures for Cases Subject to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act and Department of State Rule 1360-04-01. At all times the burden of obtaining evidence and establishing a violation shall be on the college.
2. In the event of bias or conflict of interest by an college official, DSCC may appoint a substitute, who may or may not be employed by the college.
3. The investigator shall conduct an appropriate investigation, which may include interviews of the parties and witnesses, as well as review of documents and other information. The purpose of the investigation is to determine whether the evidence establishes a violation of college policy and procedures. The parties are encouraged, but not required, to provide information that they want the investigator to consider.
4. The investigator shall provide written notice of receipt of a written complaint or the decision to initiate an investigation.
5. The investigator shall notify students that the college will comply with FERPA and only disclose information in accordance with FERPA and other applicable law.
6. The investigator shall prepare a report summarizing the investigation.  The report shall include, but not be limited to, the dates of the alleged occurrences, the response of the respondent, the findings of the investigator, and recommendations regarding disposition of the complaint.
7. The report shall be submitted to the college’s president within sixty (60) calendar days following receipt of the complaint, absent cause for extending the investigation timeline.  In situations where more time is needed to complete the investigation, written notice shall be provided to the parties explaining the reasons.
8. The president shall review the investigator’s report and shall make a written determination as to whether this policy, and college policy, processes, and procedures have been violated and the appropriate disciplinary sanction, if any. The president’s determination and the investigator’s report shall be provided to the parties, unless prohibited by law.
9. Either party may send a written request to reconsider to the president within ten (10) working days, absent good cause, of receipt of the president’s determination.
   1. The request to reconsider process shall consist of an opportunity for the parties to provide information to the president’s attention that would change the determination and/or disciplinary sanction.  A party must explain why the factual information was incomplete, the analysis of the facts was incorrect, the determination was affected by bias or a conflict of interest, procedural irregularity, and/or the appropriate standard was not applied, and how this would affect the determination. Failure to do so may result in denial of the request to reconsider.
   2. The parties will not be allowed to present their request to reconsider in person unless the president determines, in his or her sole discretion, to allow an in-person appearance.
   3. The president shall issue a written response to the request to reconsider as promptly as possible.  The decision will constitute the college’s final decision.
   4. The college shall provide written notice of the ability to contest the determination and/or disciplinary sanctions, including where applicable, the ability to request a contested case hearing pursuant to the UAPA, to the parties at the time the parties are advised of the determination and upon the resolution of any request to reconsider or appeal.

Students and student organizations subject to any disciplinary sanction are entitled to a due process hearing in accordance with this policy and standards established by the constitutions of the State of Tennessee and the United States unless that right is waived after receiving written notice of the available procedures.

All proceedings under this policy will be held in closed session and not open to the public.  Formal rules of evidence shall not be applicable. The Dean of Student Services or DSCC Student Affairs Committee chair may exclude evidence which in their judgment is immaterial, irrelevant, or unduly repetitious.

Written notice to a student or student organization is accomplished either by handing a copy to the student; sending documents via to email to the student’s or student organization’s college email account; email account of record on file with the college; or by sending a copy via certified mail, registered mail, return receipt requested mail, or a nationally recognized delivery service that tracks delivery to the student’s residence of record or the student organization’s address of record.

Initiation of Changes.

DSCC may initiate the disciplinary process on the basis of written allegations received from any source, including any member of the college community.  Complaints should be directed to the Dean of Student Services, except that complaints relating to discrimination, harassment, and retaliation should be referred to the administrator identified by the institution so that such complaints can be handled in accordance with college policy and procedures. The college may also initiate disciplinary procedures without written allegations if it becomes aware of potential violations of these rules through other means.

When the allegations, if proven, may warrant the imposition of a disciplinary sanction, the college shall inform the student of the allegations and proceed to gather information concerning the matter, including, but not limited to, interviewing relevant witnesses and reviewing relevant documents and evidence.  Students who may be the subject of disciplinary sanctions will be provided the minimum due process protections identified in this policy.

After reviewing the evidence, the administrator with responsibility for the matter shall decide whether sufficient evidence exists to charge the student, and if so, the appropriate disciplinary sanction(s). Notice of the charges and disciplinary sanction(s), if any, shall be provided in writing to the student. If there is insufficient evidence to continue the disciplinary process, the matter will be closed, and written notice will be provided to the student.

Minimum Due Process Protections.

DSCC shall provide the following minimum procedural due process protection components in disciplinary matters:

• The student shall be advised, in writing, of the breach of the policy provision(s) of which he or she is charged;
• The student shall be advised of the time, date, and place of the hearing allowing reasonable time for preparation; and
• The student shall be advised of the following rights applicable at the hearing:
  • the right to present his or her case;
  • the right to be accompanied by an advisor of his or her choice. The advisor’s participation shall be limited to advising the student, and not include advocating on behalf of the student, speaking on behalf of the student, or otherwise actively representing the student.  An advisor is not permitted to interfere with the hearing;
  • the right to call witnesses on his or her behalf;
  • the right to confront witnesses against him or her; and
  • the method and time limitations for appeal, if any is applicable.

Options for Students.

Four potential processes exist for adjudication of disciplinary matters. The student will be informed in writing of each available option and the due process rights associated with each option. A student will have five (5) business days following written notification to select an option.  If a student fails to return the election of a procedure in a timely manner, the student will be deemed to have waived the right to contest the disciplinary sanction.  Selection of one option constitutes waiver of all other options.

1. Contested Case Hearing: All cases which may result in either: suspension or expulsion of a student from the college for disciplinary reasons, or revocation of registration of a student organization, are subject to the contested case provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act , T.C.A. § 4-5-301 et seq., and TBR Policy 1.06.00.05, Uniform Procedures for Cases Subject to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, unless the student or student organization, after receiving written notice, waives those procedures.
2. Institutional Panel Hearing:  Members of the DSCC Student Affairs Committee will hold the institutional panel hearing and will consist of at least three (3) individuals and include at least one (1) student. The Dean of Student Services or other administrator identified by the college will assemble the committee and coordinate the hearing but will not vote as to the committee’s decision.  An individual who has an interest in the incident, a conflict of interest, or a bias is not permitted to serve on the committee.

The committee will set a hearing date that is within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of the student’s request for a panel hearing. The student must be notified of the date, time, and location of the hearing as soon as possible, but given at least seven (7) calendar days’ notice.  A student will be notified of the due process protections provided for in these rules.

The committee will conduct the hearing, consider the relevant evidence presented, and make a decision based on a simple majority vote. The committee can either uphold, overturn, or lessen the disciplinary finding and/or sanction.  The results of the decision will be conveyed to the student in writing, through the Dean of Student Services or other administrator identified by the institution, within ten (10) business days of the hearing.

If the committee upholds or lessens the disciplinary finding and/or sanction, the student may appeal in writing to the president within five (5) business days following receipt of the decision of the committee. The president will make a decision within ten (10) business days. The president’s decision is final.

Dean of Student Services or other administrator identified by the institution has the ability to extend deadlines for good cause and upon written notice to the student.

The college shall maintain all submissions by the student and all decisions of institutional officials and committees permanently.

3. Administrative Resolution:  An administrative resolution involves the student meeting with the Dean of Student Services or other administrator identified by the college, and if there is no appeal, the decision of the administrator is final.
4. A student may elect not to contest the disciplinary action, either affirmatively or by failing to return the election of a procedure in a timely manner, which serves as a waiver of the right to contest the disciplinary action.

Procedures Related to Interim Involuntary Withdrawal or Suspension Hearings.

When the Dean of Student Services or other administrator identified by the college determines that an interim suspension or other interim measure is required for the health and safety of the institutional community and/or property, or to prevent an ongoing imminent threat of disruption to or interference with the normal operations of the college, the student will receive an opportunity for an informal hearing with the Dean of Student Services or other administrator identified by the college to contest the interim measure.

The informal hearing will be held within five (5) calendar days, absent good cause. The evidence presented at the hearing shall be limited to that which is relevant to the basis asserted for imposition of the interim suspension or other interim measure.

Alternative Resolution Procedures.

DSCC, with the consent of all relevant parties, may use an alternative resolution method including, but not limited to, an apology, mediation, or a negotiated resolution.

Classroom and Academic Misconduct

Academic and classroom misconduct is addressed in DSCC Policy 04:03:01:00.

Classroom Misconduct

The instructor has the primary responsibility for maintenance of academic integrity and controlling class (which for this policy includes any remote class and/or offsite class such as a clinic site or other non-traditional class environment) behavior and responding to disruptive conduct.

The instructor may order the temporary removal or exclusion from the class of any student engaged in disruptive conduct or other conduct that violates this policy for each class session during which the conduct occurs. Extended or permanent exclusion from the classroom, beyond the session in which the conduct occurred, or further disciplinary action can be effected only through appropriate procedures.

Academic Misconduct

Plagiarism, cheating, fabrication and other forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited.

Students guilty of academic misconduct, either directly or indirectly, through participation or assistance, are immediately responsible to the instructor of the class. In addition to other possible disciplinary sanctions which may be imposed in accordance with this policy, the instructor has the authority to take academic discipline consistent with college policy, procedures, and processes.

An instructor who determines that a student has engaged in academic misconduct may choose to exercise academic discipline by lowering to any extent, including to a grade of “F” or “zero,” a student’s grade in the course, assignment, or examination affected by the alleged academic misconduct.

An instructor who initiates academic discipline shall inform the appropriate Discipline Coordinator and Academic Dean in writing of the finding of academic misconduct, the basis therefore, the academic discipline imposed, and the appeals process within five (5) days of the imposition of academic discipline.

A student may not withdraw from a course pending final resolution of an allegation of academic misconduct. Students are permitted and encouraged to continue attending class until the academic disciplinary decision, including all appeals, is final.

A student charged with academic misconduct has the option of either accepting the academic discipline imposed by the instructor or initiating the appeals process to challenge the allegation of academic misconduct or the severity of the academic discipline.  If the student does not respond in writing within five (5) days by either accepting or appealing the academic discipline to the DSCC Student Affairs Committee, the student waives the right to contest the academic discipline, at which time it becomes final.

The DSCC Student Affairs Committee shall consist of at least three (3) individuals and include at least one (1) student. The Dean of Student Services will assemble the committee and coordinate the hearing but will not participate on the committee.  Any individual who has an interest in the incident, a conflict of interest, or a bias is not permitted to serve on the committee.

The DSCC Student Affairs Committee will set a hearing date that is within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of date of the student’s appeal. The student must receive at least seven (7) calendar days’ notice of the date, time, and location of the hearing.  A student will be notified of the due process protections provided for in this policy.

The DSCC Student Affairs Committee will conduct the appeal hearing, consider the evidence presented, and make a decision based on a simple majority vote using a preponderance of the evidence standard. The committee can either uphold, overturn, or lessen the academic discipline.  The results of the committee’s decision will be conveyed to the student in writing, through the Vice President for the College, within ten (10) business days of the hearing.

If the DSCC Student Affairs Committee upholds or lessens the academic discipline, the student may appeal in writing to the president within five (5) business days following receipt of the decision of the committee. The president will make a decision within ten (10) business days. The president’s decision is final.

Dean of Student Services has the ability to extend any deadline in this section for good cause and upon written notice to the student.

In addition to academic discipline, a student who is found responsible for academic misconduct, either one or more times, may be subject to disciplinary sanctions in accordance with this policy.

DSCC shall maintain permanently all submissions by the student and all decisions of college officials and committees relating to academic misconduct.

Multiple Acts of Academic Misconduct

A student who receives more than one “F” as a result of Faculty Discipline may be summoned to appear before the Vice President for the College and may be subject to additional disciplinary sanctions described in the DSCC Disciplinary Sanctions Policy.

Definitions related to the Student Conduct Policy

Cheating includes, but is not limited to, the following situations:

1. Use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, or examinations; dependence upon the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments;
2. The acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material before such material is revealed or distributed by the instructor;
3. The misrepresentation of papers, reports, assignments or other materials as the product of a student’s sole independent effort for the purpose of affecting the student’s grade, credit, or status in the College;
4. Failing to abide by the instructions of the proctor concerning test-taking procedures; examples include, but are not limited to, talking, laughing, failure to take a seat assignment, failing to adhere to starting and stopping times, or other disruptive activity;
5. Influencing, or attempting to influence, any College official, faculty member or employee possessing academic grading and/or evaluation authority or responsibility for maintenance of academic records through the use of bribery, threats, or any other means of coercion in order to affect a student grade or evaluation;
6. Any forgery, alteration, unauthorized possession, or misuse of College documents pertaining to academic records, including, but not limited to, late or retroactive DSCC Change of Registration or DSCC Withdrawal forms. Alteration or misuse of College documents pertaining to academic records by means of computer resources or other equipment is also included within this definition of “cheating.”

Plagiarism - Includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full or clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials.

Academic misconduct - Includes, but is not limited to, all acts of cheating and plagiarism.

Disruptive conduct - Conduct which may include, but is not limited to, intentional interference with the normal classroom procedure or presentation of the instructor or other student(s) and/or interference with another student’s right to pursue coursework.

Fabrication - Unauthorized falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise.

Definitions related to Academic and Classroom Misconduct Policy

Plagiarism - Includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full or clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials.

Academic misconduct - Includes, but is not limited to, all acts of cheating and plagiarism.

Disruptive conduct - Conduct which may include, but is not limited to, intentional interference with the normal classroom procedure or presentation of the instructor or other student(s) and/or interference with another student’s right to pursue coursework.

Fabrication - Unauthorized falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise.

A student shall mean any person:

• who is admitted, enrolled, and/or registered for study (including for non-credit classes) at DSCC for any academic period. This shall include any period of time following admission and/or registration, but preceding the start of classes for any academic period, following the end of an academic period through the last day for registration for the succeeding academic period, and during any period while the student is under suspension from the college; who engaged in academic misconduct as part of the application process; and/or
• who previously attended a TBR institution and who was found to have violated the institution’s student conduct and disciplinary standards policy during the time of enrollment.
• “Student” shall also include any person subject to a period of suspension or removal from college property resulting from a finding of a violation of this policy;
• Unless explicitly provided otherwise in these rules, the term “student” shall also refer to a student organization.

Student Complaints:

The purpose of this procedure is to provide DSCC students with a mechanism whereby complaints and misunderstandings may be resolved. The Dean of Student Services will serve as the mediator between the parties involved in the incident.

The following steps serve as a guideline to resolve any formal complaints if the student is unable to resolve the issue with the other party.

1. Within 10 school days of the occurrence on which the complaint is based, the student must contact the Dean of Student Services to discuss the nature of the problem. The student must also submit a written statement of the nature of the incident and parties involved.
2. The Dean of Student Services will evaluate the nature of the complaint, determine the appropriate office in which the complaint should be handled, and forward the student’s written complaint materials to the responsible person for resolution.
3. If the student is unsatisfied with the resolution, he/she has a right to appeal. The appeal must be submitted to the Dean of Students, in writing, within five school days after receipt of resolution.
4. The Dean of Student Services will appoint a committee and schedule a meeting to review the complaint. The committee shall be composed of two students, two faculty members, and one non-faculty member. None of the parties involved in the incident shall be members of the committee. At least one student representative shall be a member of the Student Government Association. The committee will meet within 10 school days of notification of the Dean of Student Services.
5. The committee members will have five (5) school days to give their resolution of the complaint to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean will meet with the initiator of the complaint and discuss the decision.

If the student is still not satisfied with the solution, the matter will then be referred to the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success. The Vice President of Academic Affairs or Student Success or his/her designee will render a final decision within 10 working days.

1. No retaliation or adverse action will be taken against the student for filing the complaint.
2. The institution will maintain comprehensive records of all complaints including the source of the complaint, type of complaint, and final resolution. These records will be kept in the Office of the Dean of Student Services.

NOTE: If, at the discretion of the Dean, the complaint is deemed to warrant immediate investigation and resolution, the Dean of Student Services will handle the matter in concert with the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success.

Student Safety Policy:

DSCC strives to maintain a learning-centered environment free from intimidation, threats, violent acts and theft. This includes, but is not limited to, intimidating, bullying, threatening or hostile behaviors, physical abuse or verbal abuse, vandalism, arson, sabotage, use of weapons, carrying weapons of any kind onto school or institution property, or any other act which is inappropriate to the academic environment.

Students who feel they have been subjected to any of the behaviors listed above are requested to immediately report the incident to the Dean of Student Services. Students who observe or have knowledge of any violation of this policy should also report it immediately. Complaints will be investigated in accordance with the DSCC Student Handbook, and disciplinary action will be taken against the offender, if appropriate.

The College reserves the right to take any and all action required to enforce the above policy including searching and inspection of school property and material brought into or out of the institution.

Search and Seizure:

State law provides that students and their property on the Dyersburg Campus or at DSCC Centers may be searched and, where necessary, seized on the basis of a determination of probable cause. Probable cause may be found where the facts and circumstances within College administrators’ knowledge and of which they have reasonable trustworthy information are sufficient in themselves to warrant a search in the belief that a violation of the College’s regulations has been or is being committed.

In the event that police or other law enforcement officials not employed by the College request permission to search a student or his property, the College will not consent to the search unless the officials have a search warrant for that particular student or his property.

Unscheduled and Delayed Closings/Emergency Notifications:

RAVE Emergency Notification System

The RAVE Emergency Notification system is used to notify students, faculty and staff of unscheduled College closings or DSCC emergency situations. The DSCC email account of each student enrolled is loaded into the RAVE emergency system each semester. Students may elect to add the following contact information:

♦  three personal landline telephone numbers

♦  three personal cellphone numbers

♦  two additional personal email addresses

This contact information will not be shared and will only be used to send official DSCC schedule or emergency notices.

Assistance in signing up for RAVE is available at a DSCC Help Desk located in the Eller Administration Building on the Dyersburg Campus or the DSCC LRCs at the Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County, or the office at the Henry County Center. Students may sign up for RAVE at www.getrave.com/login/DSCC

Other Means of Notification

1. Students may check the DSCC website (www.dscc.edu) for Updates/Alerts that give information about class schedule changes or closings.
2. Information about closing and schedule changes will also be recorded on the Alert Hotline at 731-286-3303.
3. Schedule change and/or closing announcements will be posted on DSCC’s Facebook page.
4. Anyone may sign up to receive Update and/or Alert text messages through the State Gazette website, www.stategazette.com. Follow the directions on the Text Alerts tab.
5. Arrangements have been made with the following radio and television stations to announce the closing of the College:

 Emergency Notifications

 Treating and Reporting Illness and Injury

1. Call 911 for injuries and illnesses requiring medical attention. It should be understood that the cost for transporting a student by ambulance to the hospital will be incurred by the injured or ill student.
2. A DSCC employee who responds to any injury or report of illness will complete the First Report of Injury form located in MyDSCC under the HR Info heading, linked in Employee Forms. Include as much information as you have available in the report.
3. The Office of Student Services will receive the form and follow up as needed.

Tornado and Fire Alert

1. Tornado Alert

2. Fire Alert

Other Emergencies

For other emergencies, consult the DSCC Safety and Security Procedures Manual. A copy is posted in each classroom and office.

Traffic and Parking Regulations Policy:

Traffic and Parking Regulations are addressed in DSCC Policy 05:01:04:00.

Regulations are applicable to all students, faculty, staff and visitors to DSCC properties. These regulations also apply to faculty, staff, students and visitors teaching on the DSCC campus or at the DSCC Centers. Policies shall be published at least annually. Notification to faculty, staff, students and visitors will be made, as appropriate, through signage, traffic/parking brochure, and the DSCC Catalog and Student Handbook.

1. Registration and Parking Permits-

1. DSCC requires students, employees, and visitors to obtain and display a parking permit that indicates that current service fees have been paid.
2. Faculty and staff should purchase a parking permit at the beginning of the academic year in August. Permits may be purchased in the Business Office for faculty/staff. New employees will pay the full fee before January 1. After January 1, employees will pay one-half of the annual fees.
3. A campus access fee is paid by students when they pay their fees at the beginning of the semester. Students obtain parking permits at the Learning Resource Centers located on the Dyersburg Campus, the DSCC Henry County Center, or the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County.
4. Visitors may obtain a temporary parking pass at no cost at the One Stop locations on the Dyersburg Campus, the DSCC Henry County Center or the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County.
5. Registration information for each vehicle is to include the name, address, telephone number, and student or employee ID number (D#), county of the registrant of the vehicle and the year, color, make and license number of the vehicle.
6. Anyone intending to operate more than one vehicle on DSCC property should register each vehicle.
7. Lost or stolen parking permits must be reported to DSCC Office of Student Services.
8. Only motor vehicles properly displaying a parking permit, visitor pass, or those motor vehicles legally parked where no permit is required may be parked on DSCC property.
9. Parking permits should be visible at all times.
10. Parking permits may not be transferred from one person to another.
11. Anyone trading or selling a motor vehicle with a DSCC parking permit must remove the permit and notify the Chief of Police of the transfer. All violations against the old or previously issued parking permits will be charged to the individual to whom it was originally issued.
12. Change in license plates by students must be reported to the Chief of Police or the LRC within five (5) working days of the change. Employees should report the changes to the Chief of Police.

    2. Parking-

1. No parking areas: loading areas, on sidewalks, on campus lawns, within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or within any area marked “No Parking.” Any vehicle parked in any of these areas may be towed at the owner’s expense.
2. Restricted parking as follows:
   1. In areas designated faculty/staff parking (yellow lines), parking is limited to faculty/staff vehicles with faculty/staff parking permits.
   2. In areas designated student parking (white lines), parking is limited to student vehicles displaying DSCC parking permits.
   3. In areas designated visitor parking, parking is limited to vehicles belonging to visitors.
   4. Vehicles improperly parked in restricted areas will receive tickets and may be towed at the owner’s expense.
   5. Faculty/staff are required to park in faculty/staff parking spots only. Students of faculty/staff must have a student parking permit and are not allowed to park in faculty/staff parking spots.
   6. Persons utilizing disabled parking spaces, designated by blue lines, must have a state-issued disability license plate or disability placard, or display a handicap accessible parking permit issued by the DSCC ADA Coordinator. All students, faculty, and staff who have a state-issued placard or license plate should be registered with the Office of the DSCC ADA Coordinator to ensure access
3. Motorcycles, motor bikes, and motor scooters are only permitted to park in regularly marked parking spaces. Operating these motor vehicles on any surface other than designated streets or parking areas is prohibited.

   3  Traffic-                                                                                                                  

1. Operators of motor vehicles on DSCC property or DSCC controlled property must obey all traffic rules, regulations, postings, and directions of law enforcement, regardless of whether the rule, regulation, posting, or direction is included in these rules, and all applicable traffic rules, regulations, postings, or directions.
2. Violations of posted speed limits, the reckless operation of a motor vehicle on DSCC property or DSCC controlled property, including but not limited to, squealing tires or sliding the motor vehicle is prohibited.
   1. Vehicles must yield right-of-way to all emergency vehicles by pulling over and coming to a complete stop.
   2. Speed limit is 15 m.p.h. on the streets and driveways/roadways at the Dyersburg Campus, the JNC, and the HCC.; in parking lots the speed limit is 10 m.p.h.
   3. Passing on DSCC campus or DSCC center streets is prohibited.
3. All persons operating motor vehicles are responsible for maintaining proper control of the motor vehicle, safe operation, and observance of traffic control signs, barriers, and devices.
4. Operating a motor vehicle in any area other than a street or a roadway intended for motor vehicles is prohibited.
5. Pedestrians have the right of way at established pedestrian crossings, except where regulated by traffic control lights or police officers.
6. Individuals riding bicycles must comply with all applicable traffic rules, regulations, postings, or directions.

    4.  Fines and Penalties-

1. DSCC college police and security officers may issue citations for violations of this policy.
2. Fines:
   1. For parking and registration citations, other than violations resulting from improper use of handicap accessible parking: ten dollars ($10.00) for the first violation and twenty dollars ($20) for each subsequent ticket that semester.
   2. For illegally parking in handicap accessible zone: A citation written by law enforcement as a violation of a city or county ordinance and/or state law will be resolved by a court.
   3. For a moving vehicle violation: ten dollars ($10.00) for the first ticket issued and twenty dollars ($20.00) for subsequent tickets.
3. Fines should be paid in the Business Office, at the office of the Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County or the office of the Henry County Center.

     5.  Enforcement-  

1. DSCC, without advance notice, may tow, boot, or remove to a place of storage at the owner’s expense any motor vehicle that is parked in a fire lane, designated disabled parking space, spaces reserved for designated motor vehicles, or motor vehicles parked in such a manner as to impede the flow of traffic or disrupt the orderly affairs of the institution.
2. DSCC may tow, boot, or remove to a place of storage at the owner’s expense any motor vehicle that has unpaid parking citations as long as advance notice and an opportunity to contest has been given. Windshield notices and/or other methods of notification will be used to provide the operator of the motor vehicle with advance notice of the intent to tow and the operator’s right to a contest.
3. DSCC may revoke parking privileges for repeated and/or deliberate parking or moving violations.
4. Any student who receives $100.00 or more in traffic and/or parking violations on DSCC property or DSCC controlled property during any semester may be subject to disciplinary action.
5. Parking permits are issued to persons, not motor vehicles, and are required to be visible through the front windshield of the vehicle. Permit holders are responsible for citations incurred with their permit. Persons will also be held liable for a violation incurred by a motor vehicle without a permit when that motor vehicle is reasonably shown to be associated with the person.
6. Any student, employee, or visitor who has received an institution-issued citation may appeal the citation within fifteen (15) business days of the date of issuance. Citations issued by the institution and not appealed must be paid within fifteen (15) business days of the issuance date of the citation.

     6.  Appeal-

The appeal of any citation may be made to the Traffic Citations Appeal Committee provided a written request to appeal is filed with the Business Office within five (15) working days after the ticket is issued. If the notice of appeal is not filed within five (15) working days, the right of the appeal is lost, and the fine will be due immediately.

A citation written by law enforcement as a violation of a city or county ordinance and/or state law will be resolved by a court.

Definitions related to this policy:

Visitor - A person not enrolled or employed at the College but one who occasionally has business or legitimate reasons to be on campus.

Motor vehicle - any self-propelled vehicle that is capable of exceeding twenty- five (25) miles per hour.

Employee - all faculty, executive, administrative, professional and support staff employed in the service of and whose compensation is paid by a TBR institution. “Employee” does not include independent contractors who provide goods or services to the institution or student workers as defined in TBR Policy 5.01.01.00.

Information and Policies related to Tobacco, Alcohol and Illegal Drugs:

Tobacco-Free Policy

The tobacco-free policy is addressed in DSCC Policy 09:07:02:01.

In an effort to promote a healthy environment free of tobacco-related smoke and debris, the use of tobacco products and electronic cigarettes or like devices on all DSCC property is prohibited. This includes all buildings and indoor facilities, campus grounds and walkways, off-campus locations, athletic fields and courts, parking lots and vehicles that are owned, rented or leased by DSCC. Tobacco and electronic cigarette use is permitted only in private vehicles. This policy applies to the entire College community, including employees, students, contractors and visitors.

While the success of this policy will depend on the thoughtfulness, consideration, and cooperation of both tobacco and electronic cigarette users and non-users, enforcement of this policy shall be handled by security and the person(s) responsible for activities carried out within the particular room, facility, or program area. The names of students who violate this policy should be given to the Dean of Student Services for appropriate disciplinary action.

Alcohol/Drug Abuse Information

DSCC prohibits the unlawful manufacture, dispensation, possession, distribution or use of illegal drugs and alcohol on the Campus property or on institutionally-owned, leased or otherwise controlled property including an affiliated clinical site, an institution sponsored event, or as part of any activity of DSCC. Various federal, state, and local statutes make it unlawful to manufacture, distribute, dispense, deliver or sell controlled substances. The penalty imposed depends upon many factors that include the type and amount of controlled substance involved, the number of prior offenses, if any, and whether death or serious bodily injury resulted from the use of such substance and whether any other crimes were committed in connection with the use of the controlled substance. Possible penalties for a first-time violation include imprisonment for any period of time up to a term of life; a monetary fine if an individual; supervised release; any combination of the above, or all three.

Tennessee statues provide that it is unlawful for any person under the age of twenty-one (21) to buy, possess, transport (unless in the course of his employment), or consume alcoholic beverages, wine or beer, such offense being classified as a Class A misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 11 months 29 days, or a fine of not more than $2,500, or both. The receipt, possession or transportation of alcoholic beverages without the required revenue stamp is also a Class A misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of not more than thirty (30) days, or a fine of not more than $50, or both. It is further an offense to provide alcoholic beverages to any person under the age of twenty-one (21), such offense being classified a Class A misdemeanor.

Students will be required to comply with DSCC’s policies as well as state, local and federal laws. Disciplinary Sanctions and Disciplinary Procedures are listed in this handbook.

Possible disciplinary sanctions for failure to comply with the terms of this policy may include one or more of the following:

1. Expulsion;
2. Suspension;
3. Mandatory participation in, and satisfactory completion of, a drug/alcohol abuse program or rehabilitation program;
4. Referral for prosecution;
5. Probation;
6. Warning;
7. Reprimand.

Health Risks Associated With Drug/Alcohol Use

Drugs that dull the senses to react, see, and think clearly include, but are not limited to, marijuana, antihistamines, tranquilizers, stimulants, inhalants, sedatives and hypnotics. Stimulants would include amphetamines, cocaine, and caffeine, which are mood-changing drugs; opiates or pain relievers including heroin, morphine, meperidine, paregoric; and cough syrups that contain codeine.

The use of alcohol can lead to serious health risks:

1. Loss of muscle control, poor coordination, slurred speech;
2. Fatigue, nausea, headache;
3. Increased likelihood of accidents;
4. Impaired judgment;
5. Possible respiratory paralysis and death.

Heavy drinking can lead to:

1. Alcoholism;
2. Damage to brain cells;
3. Increased risk of cirrhosis, ulcers, heart disease, heart attack and cancer of liver, mouth, throat, and stomach;
4. Hallucinations;
5. Personality disorders.

Health risks associated with use of illegal drugs include:

1. Increased susceptibility to disease due to a less efficient immune system;
2. Increased likelihood of accidents;
3. Personality disorder;
4. Addiction.

The use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol during pregnancy may cause spontaneous abortion, various birth defects or fetal alcohol syndrome. Additionally, the illicit use of drugs increases the risk of contracting hepatitis, AIDS and other infections. If used excessively, the use of alcohol or drugs singly or in certain combinations may cause death.

Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Students experience a range of challenges that can interfere with learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, substance use, feeling down, difficulty concentrating, or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may diminish academic performance or reduce the ability to participate in daily activities. The DSCC mental health counselors can help, and treatment does work. Learn more about confidential mental health services online: dscc.edu/current-students/counseling-services. Emergency help is also available 24 hours per day by calling 988, or text TN to 741741. Online resources are available from the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network at tspn.org. The DSCC Suicide Prevention Plan can be viewed online: https://www.dscc.edu/counseling.

Signs of Mental Health Problems

DSCC is committed to and cares about all students. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of mental health problems can help an individual student or his/her peers to consider seeking care that can help. These are some signs that may be reason for concern:

1. Feeling hopeless, worthless, depressed, angry or guilty
2. Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities that used to be fun
3. Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
4. Feeling tired or exhausted all of the time
5. Trouble concentrating, thinking, remembering or making decisions
6. Restlessness, irritability, agitation or anxious movements or behaviors
7. Neglect of personal care
8. Reckless or impulsive behaviors (e.g., drinking or using drugs excessively or being unsafe in other ways)
9. Persistent physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, digestive problems or chronic pain) that do not respond to routine treatment
10. Thoughts about death or suicide.

Divisive Concepts and Freedom of Expression

This notice is intended to comply with the Tennessee Higher Education Freedom of Expression and Transparency Act (the “Act”) and to reflect the Board of Regents’ and institutional commitment to freedom of speech and academic freedom.

1. Definitions

A.   Divisive Concept means a concept that:

1. One (1) race or sex is inherently superior or inferior to another race or sex;
2. An individual, by virtue of the individual’s race or sex, is inherently privileged, racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or subconsciously;
3. An individual should be discriminated against or receive adverse treatment because of the individual’s race or sex;
4. An individual’s moral character is determined by the individual’s race or sex;
5. An individual, by virtue of the individual’s race or sex, bears responsibility for actions committed in the past by other members of the same race or sex;
6. An individual should feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or another form of psychological distress solely because of the individual’s race or sex;
7. A meritocracy is inherently racist or sexist, or designed by a particular race or sex to oppress another race or sex;
8. This state or the United States is fundamentally or irredeemably racist or sexist;
9. Promotes or advocates the violent overthrow of the United States government;
10. Promotes division between, or resentment of, a race, sex, religion, creed, nonviolent political affiliation, social class, or class of people;
11. Ascribes character traits, values, moral or ethical codes, privileges, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of the individual’s race or sex;
12. The rule of law does not exist, but instead is a series of power relationships and struggles among racial or other groups;
13. All Americans are not created equal and are not endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, including, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness;
14. Governments should deny to any person within the government’s jurisdiction the equal protection of the law;
15. Includes race or sex stereotyping; or
16. Includes race or sex scapegoating.

B.   Faculty means any person, whether or not the person is compensated by the institution, and regardless of political affiliation, who is tasked with providing scholarship, academic research, or teaching. “Faculty” includes tenured and non-tenured professors, adjunct professors, visiting professors, lecturers, graduate student instructors, and those in comparable positions, however titled. “Faculty” does not include persons whose primary responsibilities are administrative or managerial.

C.   Race or sex scapegoating means assigning fault, blame, or bias to a race or sex, or to members of a race or sex, because of their race or sex, and includes any claim that, consciously or subconsciously, and by virtue of a person’s race or sex, members of a race are inherently racist or inclined to oppress others, or that members of a sex are inherently sexist or inclined to oppress others.

D.   Race or sex stereotyping means ascribing character traits, values, moral and ethical codes, privileges, status, or beliefs to a race or sex, or to an individual because of the individual’s race or sex.

II. Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Expression, and Academic Freedom

1. Infringe on freedom of speech protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, the Tennessee Constitution, or the Tennessee Campus Free Speech Protection Act, as explained in Freedom of Speech and Expression : 1.03.02.60 | policies.tbr.edu;
2. Infringe on the rights of academic freedom of faculty and other instructors as protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, the Tennessee Constitution, or the Tennessee Campus Free Speech Protection Act, as explained in Freedom of Speech and Expression : 1.03.02.60 | policies.tbr.edu;
3. Require an employee to:
   1. Violate any federal or state law, rule, or regulation; or
   2. Fail to comply with any applicable academic accreditation requirement;
4. Prohibit an institution from training students or employees on the non-discrimination requirements of federal or state law; or
5. Prohibit an institution from promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, provided that those efforts are consistent with State law.    

III. Prohibited Activity

1. Neither the institution nor any employee shall penalize, discriminate against, or engage in any adverse treatment due to a student’s or employee’s refusal to support, believe, endorse, embrace, confess, act upon, or otherwise assent to one or more divisive concepts.
2. Neither the institution nor any employee shall require a student or employee to endorse a specific ideology or political viewpoint to be eligible for hiring, tenure, promotion, or graduation.
3. Neither the institution nor any employee shall ask the ideological or political viewpoint of an applicant for admission, student, job applicant, job candidate, or candidate for promotion or tenure. This Section shall not be construed to prohibit classroom instruction or discussion, to prohibit any other teaching or pedagogical activity, to interfere with academic freedom, or to violate the Campus Free Speech Protection Act, as explained in Freedom of Speech and Expression : 1.03.02.60 | policies.tbr.edu.

IV. Investigation and Resolution of Complaints

1. A student or employee who believes that the institution or an employee has engaged in Prohibited Activity may file a complaint by submitting a complaint to Submitting a Comment, Complaint or Request | Tennessee Board of Regents (tbr.edu). 

Student Resources

Additional Student Information

Bookstore

The Dyersburg State Community College Bookstore is on the main campus in Campus Activities Building and the Covington campus in the Jimmy Naifeh Building. The business hours for both locations vary based on time of year. Hours are posted online and at each location. Please visit our website at www.bkstr.com/dyersburgstore  for the most up to date hours.

Our stores carry all the required textbooks and supplies that are needed for all on-line and in-person classes. The Dyersburg campus also services the Henry County Center, and its students. Books and other course materials can also be purchased through our website. We also have a variety of team wear, apparel, and great gifts. Please visit www.Shopdscc.com to shop for the latest merchandise.

The bookstore accepts all major credit/debit cards and cash when making purchases.

Book refunds will only be made up to seven (7) calendar days from the first day of classes. A receipt must be present for a full refund. No refunds will be given for new books that have been written in or have the plastic wrap removed.

The bookstore will buy books back from students at any time, but it is not guaranteed. A higher price may be paid during the week before and the week of final exams.

Please visit www.dscc.edu/ebooks for information on or about opting out of Follett Access/DEI materials or eBooks.

For any questions regarding course materials for the Dyersburg State Community College, Online, or the Henry County Center please contact the Dyersburg campus. For questions about course materials for the Jimmy Naifeh Center please contact the Covington campus.

Dyersburg Campus: (731)286-3241 

Email: bookstore@dscc.edu

Covington Campus: (901)475-3140

Shop anytime at shopdscc.com

Career Counseling

Career Counseling is coordinated by the Counselor/Career Services Coordinator and assisted by the Career Counselor. The purpose of Career Counseling is to help students identify career and academic goals by providing opportunities for student learning and skill development.  Students can receive assistance with job and transfer college searches, career exploration, resume and cover letter writing, soft skills, networking, and interviewing skills. Currently enrolled students can take an interest career assessment in Career Coach, found within the student tab in MyDSCC or on the Career Counseling webpage under Career Exploration. Career Coach provides the interest assessment results with detailed information for students to explore their occupational interests, strengths, and job outlook.

Career Counseling resources and workshops are provided, in person as well as virtually, at all DSCC locations. The Career Counseling webpage, accessed at DSCC’s website at www.dscc.edu and searching for Career Counseling, offers the most up-to-date information including resourceful links and articles. In the Fall and Spring semesters, Career Services offers DSCC students free resume writing and interviewing skills workshops. Students gain the needed skills for job seeking to help them attain sustainable career opportunities. To facilitate these opportunities, students are invited to attend DSCC’s College Transfer and Career Fair which is held each Spring semester. To schedule a Career Counseling appointment, contact Carmen Pfeifer at 901-475-3137 or email pfeifer@dscc.edu or Carol Pham at 901-475-3105 or email cpham@dscc.edu.

Counseling

The DSCC Counselors offer a variety of services to all students. Appointments may be made in person, by email (counselor@dscc.edu) or by calling 731-286-3242 or 901-475-3137. In addition to telephone and face-to-face meetings, Zoom software allows students to interact in real time with the counselor from different locations. The goal of the DSCC Counselors is to assist in student development. The Counselors will encourage and assist with the exploration of personal and professional choices. If indicated and appropriate, a referral may be recommended. Please view the DSCC Counseling Services website at www.dscc.edu for information on several topics, including sexual assault, alcohol and drug abuse, suicide and depression, and tobacco cessation.

Degree Planning

Students who are pursuing an associate degree or certificate at DSCC will be assigned a faculty or staff advisor after initial enrollment in classes. If students are undecided about their program of study, they should contact Career Services at 901-475-3137 or email pham@dscc.edu   Changes in advisor assignment are made when needed.

Once students determine their program of study, they should see an advisor for assistance with their degree plan. DSCC’s Degree Works system is available to all degree-seeking students. Degree Works is an advising tool that provides real-time advice and counsel on degree completion, includes intuitive web access to self-service capabilities, and streamlines the graduation process for students and advisors. It allows direct access to multiple related services and advice through hyperlinks to catalog information, class schedules, transcripts, help desk services, and FAQs.

Any time students change their program of study or the school to which they plan to transfer, they should contact their advisor to make necessary changes in their degree plan or to complete a new one. Change of major/area of emphasis or concentration must be made in the Office of Admissions and Records. The Change of Information form is available online at www.dscc.edu and at the One Stop Center on the Dyersburg campus located in the Student Center, at the Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County located in the Jimmy Naifeh Building or at the Henry County Center.

DSCC Identification Cards

Students taking one or more credit courses must obtain a student identification (ID) card. This card is provided at no charge and may be made in one of DSCC’s Learning Resource Centers. Proof of identity with a picture, such as a driver’s license, is required to obtain the card.

The ID card is required of students by the Learning Resource Center, Bookstore, Business Office, Math Lab and Gymnasium and allows a student to attend College activities open to the student body at a student rate.

Each student must retain his ID card and present it upon legitimate request. The ID card will be validated at each subsequent registration upon proof of fee payment. Lost or stolen ID cards may be replaced at a Learning Resource Center at a cost of $5.

DSCC Eagle Times

The Eagle Times is a monthly publication for students supported by the Office of Student Services. The Eagle Times can be viewed at various locations on Campus, at the Centers and online at www.dscc.edu. For more information, contact the Office of Student Services at 731-286-3240.

Food and Vending Service

For the convenience of students, an assortment of snacks and soft drinks may be purchased in vending areas located in each building on the Dyersburg campus and the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County. A café is operated during the posted hours at the Jimmy Naifeh Center in the Learning Resource Center, Student Center, and Tipton County Public Library building.

Health and Accident Insurance

DSCC, in conjunction with the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR), offers students a website where they can compare various health care exchange and marketplace options. Students who wish to purchase health and accident insurance should review options at www.TBRstudentHIX.com or call 1-800-800-5735.

Learning Resource Center (LRC)

The Learning Resource Center (LRC) serves as an information gateway for easy access to and assistance with a variety of information and research resources. It provides an online catalog of physical items as well as over one hundred online databases containing thousands of full text scholarly journal articles and thousands of electronic books for research. The Learning Resource Center webpage of resources is easily accessible and one click from the main DSCC website. Furthermore, through the Tennessee Electronic Library (TEL) link on the LRC webpage, all residents of Tennessee have access to 70 additional online databases containing full text magazine and journal articles. All of these resources, and more, are accessible 24/7 with a DSCC username and password from any computer connected to the internet.

The LRC in Dyersburg has 180 computer workstations: 145 for open use and 35 for library operations. All of these workstations can access the College network and the internet. The LRC staff provides information and assistance in person, by email, by phone and virtually. Students, faculty, staff and community users can receive assistance with using library resources and about library services.

Library personnel are available anytime the LRC is open to respond to any information need as well as specific questions about reference and reserved materials, interlibrary loan services, library instruction in the use of DSCC online resources, the borrowing of laptops for DSCC coursework, and about library policies. In addition, questions about the LRC can also be answered 24/7 by using the “Ask the Eagle” Chabot found on the DSCC main webpage.

Books from the LRC collections may be checked out for four-week periods and may be renewed in person or by telephone. There are no fines for overdue DSCC materials. However, it is important to remember to return materials promptly as a courtesy to others who may want to use the materials. Reserved items, such as course textbooks and anatomical models, can be checked out for in-library use only. A coin-operated photocopier is available for use anytime during open library hours.

Typically, the DSCC Dyersburg LRC hours open are 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays. During the summer terms, the LRC is open 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Check the LRC webpage for the current hours of operation and for contact information at each of the LRC locations.

Learning Resource Centers are also located at the DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center (JNC) at Tipton County in Covington and at the Henry County Center (HCC) in Paris. The DSCC LRC in Covington at the JNC is located in a joint-use facility with the Tipton County Public Library (TCPL). Together DSCC and TCPL are partners in lifelong learning and resource sharing.

Office Hours - Administration

The following hours are operational for all offices in the administrative buildings: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The College switchboard is open each weekday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Students can call direct to any office if they choose.

Office Hours - Faculty

Each faculty member posts his/her hours of availability for student conferences by his/her office door. Students should familiarize themselves with these times and take advantage of the opportunity to interact with their instructors concerning any academic problems that they may have. Students will find that the faculty is eager to assist them with these problems. To ensure that the faculty member does not have another appointment at the desired time, call or email the faculty member to schedule a meeting.

Eagles Landing - New Student Orientation: In person or Online

Dyersburg State invites new students to attend an Eagles Landing new student orientations sessions held before classes begin to offer new students an interactive experience that includes information about advising, career exploration and College policies and procedures. Participants will be introduced to resources they can utilize as a student to be successful, such as tutoring, the Learning Resource Center, the Academic Success Centers, the Math Labs, and the MyDSCC computer portal. New students will have the opportunity to tour DSCC facilities, get more information about student organizations, obtain a student identification card and vehicle parking permit, and meet faculty and staff.

For new students who cannot attend Eagle’s Landing, an interactive online version of the new student orientation is available at anytime in the MyDSCC portal. Students who are new to DSCC are required to attend an Eagles Landing new student orientation or view the online new student orientation before classes begin. Contact the Director of Enrollment Services (901-475-3132) with questions about new student orientation.

Recognition and Honors

Athletic Awards - Baseball, softball, men’s and women’s basketball and women’s soccer awards are presented on a date determined by the Athletic Director and coaching staff.

Each year, the Division of Student Services, in coordination with the faculty and staff, sponsors an Honors Convocation for the purpose of recognizing those students, faculty and staff who have been outstanding leaders and have distinguished themselves at DSCC during the academic year. Honors awarded may include the following:

Outstanding Graduates - The graduates with the highest cumulative grade-point average. Only those students who complete a minimum of 30 college-level hours in residence at DSCC will be considered for the honor of top academic graduates.

Academic Awards - The outstanding students in many academic disciplines are chosen by the faculty in the discipline granting the award.          

Student Organizations - Members who have been outstanding in their service to the organization will be recognized.

Student Organizations

Student organizations and activities exist for the personal enjoyment and development of students at DSCC. Students are encouraged to become involved in the co-curricular student activities program and active student organizations. The benefits to be derived from such involvement cannot be measured or graded; however, the contributions they make to the student’s total education cannot be overstated. The responsibility for the coordination of all student organizations and activities rests with the Office of Student Services.

All prospective student clubs and organizations are required to seek approval to organize from the Coordinator of Student Life. Application forms can be accessed through the mydscc.edu Student tab portal under Student Quick Links. Clubs or organizations making application are required to submit a statement of purpose and specify criteria for membership (constitution).

Criteria for membership must be consistent with the purpose(s) of the club. Any student may apply for membership in any recognized club or organization and may be accepted for membership if he/she meets the criteria established. No applicant shall be denied membership because of race, sex, creed or national origin. Students interested in joining a club should contact the club advisor or the Coordinator of Student Life. For more information on general policies for student organizations, contact the Coordinator of Student Life at the JNC or in Dyersburg.

Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM)

The Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) is a fellowship, program and organization involving students. Its purpose is to search for truth of which God is the source. Its goal is to reach students for Christ and His church. Programs include evangelism, discipleship, missions and ministry. Activities include Bible study, worship, fun, service and fellowship. Programs and activities are open to all students. Lunch (BCM Lunch Encounter) is served on Wednesdays at the BCM. Brittany Harwell is the Director of the BCM and can be contacted at 731-285-3750 or harwell@dscc.edu.

Baptist Collegiate Ministry at the Jimmy Naifeh Center (BCM-JNC)

The Baptist Collegiate Ministry at the Jimmy Naifeh Center (BCM-JNC) is an organization involving students with a purpose to provide opportunities for Christ-centered discipleship, ministry, Bible study, college and community service, and fellowship. Programs and activities are open to all DSCC students, faculty, and staff and will be hosted at the JNC location. Staff Advisors are Carol Pham, 901-475-3105, cpham@dscc.edu and Carmen Pfeifer, 901-475-3137, pfeifer@dscc.edu.

Chess Club

The purpose of this club shall be the advancement of enjoyment and understanding of chess. More specifically, the club shall encourage students to attain a greater mastery of chess. Most importantly, the club shall provide access to chess, and eventually, the greater service area of Dyersburg State Community College, including correctional facilities. The faculty advisor is Daniel Inghram (901-475-3149, dinghram@dscc.edu, DSCC Jimmy Naifeh Center.

Criminal Justice Association (CJA)

The DSCC Criminal Justice Association (CJA) promotes professional, academic and public awareness of criminal justice issues in an effort to improve criminal justice through educational activities. Members are encouraged to pursue higher education and professional training in criminal justice. CJA promotes high standards of ethical conduct within the criminal justice field. The faculty advisor is Mr. Michael Brooks (901-475-3164 or brooks@dscc.edu, Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County).

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)

The goal of FCA at DSCC is to offer fellowship and faith-based support to student-athletes, coaches, and Eagle Nation fans through non-denominational Christian based sports ministry. The faculty advisor is Susan Davis (731-288-7755, randolph@dscc.edu, Dyersburg Campus) and Daniel Ingrahm (901-475-3149, dinghram@dscc.edu, Jimmy Naifeh Center Campus). The staff advisor is Catelyn Cochran (731-286-3243, cochran@dscc.edu, Dyersburg Campus).

Forward Motion 

Forward Motion serves to encourage students to attain a greater mastery of the fine and performing arts including theater, dance, media, literature and visual art. The club provides access to the fine and performing arts for DSCC and its service area. The faculty advisor is Thomas Frost (frost@dscc.edu, Dyersburg Campus).

Phi Theta Kappa (PTK)

The goal of the Alpha Epsilon Alpha Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society (PTK) is to recognize the academic achievements of its members and to provide an opportunity for them to become actively involved in student life at DSCC. As members of the society, students should exemplify its four hallmarks: scholarship, leadership, service and fellowship. To be invited into membership in the society, students must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.50 or higher;
2. Have completed 12 hours of college-level courses at DSCC;
3. Have completed all Learning Support Program requirements; and
4. Be currently enrolled in six semester hours or more as a student at DSCC.

Chapter advisors are Dr. Brigham Scallion, 901-475-3119, scallion@dscc.edu, Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County, Tracie Keith, 901-475-3132, keith@dscc.edu, Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County, Susan Davis, 731-288-7755, randolph@dscc.edu, Dyersburg campus and Larenda Fultz, 731-286-3240, fultz@dscc.edu, Dyersburg campus.

Student Nurses Association (DSSNA)

The purpose of the DSCC Student Nurses Association (DSSNA) is to prepare nursing students to become active members of the professional association of registered nurses after graduation. The faculty advisor is Dr. Christy Hamilton, 731-286-3398, hamilton@dscc.edu, Dyersburg Campus.

Psychology Club

The Psychology/Social Sciences Club was founded to provide students interested in pursuing careers in psychology and other social sciences a venue in which all aspects of psychology and other social sciences can be discussed and explored. Members are also provided information regarding academic and professional opportunities in psychology and other social sciences. For more information, contact Jeannine McMahon, 901-475-3117, mcmahon@dscc.edu, or Cindy Williams, 901-475-3138, cwilliams@dscc.edu at Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County or Brent Fonville, 731-286-3373, bfonville@dscc.edu, Dyersburg campus.

Eagle Ambassadors

The Eagle Ambassadors of DSCC serve as ambassadors for the College. Each year, 12 outstanding student leaders are selected through an application and interview process. These students then serve as DSCC hosts, peer counselors, members of administrative committees and, along with the Admissions Counselor, visit high schools in the surrounding area.

More information about the DSCC Student Ambassadors may be obtained from Tracie Keith, Director of Enrollment Services (901-475-3132, keith@dscc.edu).

Student Government Association (SGA)

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official voice of the student body at DSCC. As such, it represents the feelings, values, and desires of the student body to the College administration. The SGA is the single most powerful student organization on the DSCC campus, and membership in this body is one of responsibility and prestige. SGA officers are elected by the student body. In addition, members attend annual conferences of the Tennessee Intercollegiate Legislature and other statewide student government activities. SGA sponsors major social activities each year. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the activities of the SGA. Advisors Coordinator of Student Life, Dyersburg and Henry County is Hannah Yawn, Coordinator of Student Life, 901-475-3166, yawn@dscc.edu, Jimmy Naifeh Center at Tipton County.

Athletics

Intercollegiate Athletics

DSCC competes in men’s and women’s basketball, baseball and softball and women’s soccer and is a member of the Tennessee Community College Athletic Association (TCCAA) and the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).

DSCC’s Athletic Program is operated within the rules and regulations of NJCAA and TCCAA. DSCC accepts the Code of Ethics and rules and regulations of these organizations.

Intercollegiate athletics are considered to be an integral part of DSCC under the direction of the Director of Athletics. The Athletic Director reports to the Vice President of External Affairs who in turn reports to the President, as shown in the official organizational chart of the College. Thus, athletics are considered a part of the educational program of DSCC.

The Athletic Committee, composed of members of the administrative staff and faculty is appointed by the College President, and this Committee serves as liaison among faculty, administration, and the intercollegiate athletic program. The Committee is concerned with the development and implementation of the Athletic Program as it relates to the overall philosophy and objectives of the institution.

The purposes of the Athletic Program are as follows:

1. To provide an opportunity for student-athletes to perform in competitive sports;
2. To provide a place of interest for student morale and enthusiasm;
3. To assist the students in developing the highest level of sportsmanship;
4. To provide an avenue for community identification with the institution;
5. To have as a priority the intellectual, physical, social, and emotional well-being of the student-athlete;
6. To provide an environment that encourages academic success;
7. To provide student-athletes the skills for lifelong learning;
8. To have a graduation rate that is equal to or greater than the overall College graduation rate.

The Athletic Program at DSCC provides every student interested in participating in competitive sports with an opportunity to become actively involved in the Athletic Program of DSCC provided he or she complies with the rules and regulations as set forth by DSCC, the NJCAA, and the TCCAA.

Intramurals

The goal of the intramural sports program is to provide a safe and welcoming environment for students, faculty and staff to play, exercise, compete, and enhance sportsmanship and character, while participating in recreational activities.

The objectives of the DSCC Intramural Program are to:

1. Provide a variety of organized sports and recreational activities.
2. Offer opportunities that help students, faculty and staff maintain physical fitness and release mental stress in a positive manner.
3. Offer students chances to network socially and develop leadership skills.

For more information or details on any intramural activity, please contact Coordinator of Student Life, Hannah Yawn, Jimmy Naifeh Center at 901-475-3166 or at yawn@dscc.edu