Student Code of Conduct

I. General Expectations of Student Behavior

State College of Florida (SCF) is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and learning and has a concern for the development of responsible personal and social conduct. The College’s mission includes maintaining high standards to foster a climate of excellence; providing opportunity and access for all; and creating a supportive, safe, personalized environment for maximum student achievement. Sharing responsibility for this mission, students and College personnel are joined in a voluntary College community.

Each student, by applying to and registering for classes at SCF, assumes an obligation to conduct herself/himself in a manner compatible with the College’s function as an educational institution and obey the laws enacted by federal, state and local governments. Furthermore, a student assumes the responsibility for becoming familiar with and abiding by the general rules of conduct published in the College Catalog, the Student Handbook and Planner and other College publications. Violation of any student rules of conduct may lead to disciplinary warning, probation, restitution, suspension, dismissal, or other appropriate and authorized penalty.

SCF expects its students to be mature and responsible citizens at all times and in all places. Whether on or off campus at any time, if the student’s conduct or dress is in violation of local, state or federal law; is a public nuisance or deemed improper and/or detrimental to the College; that student may be subject to disciplinary action as stated in SCF Procedure 4.10.01: Disciplinary Proceedings for Violation of Standards of Student Behavior.

Students are expected to respect the rights and welfare of other members of the College community and its guests. This College recognizes that a thoughtful and reasoned search for the truth can be conducted only in an atmosphere that is free of intimidation and coercion. As such, violence, the threat of violence, disruption to the learning process and intimidation are unacceptable to the College community.

In summary, students are expected to assume full responsibility for their behavior and will be held accountable for their individual and/or collective actions.

II. Academic Ethics

SCF expects all members of the College community to conduct themselves in a manner befitting the tradition of honor and integrity. They are expected to assist the College by reporting suspected violations of academic integrity to appropriate faculty and/or administrative staff.

These guidelines define a context of values for individual and institutional decisions concerning academic integrity. It is every student’s responsibility to become familiar with the standards of academic ethics at the College. Claims of ignorance, unintentional error, or academic or personal pressures are not sufficient reasons for violations.

The following is a partial list of the types of behavior that breach the College academic ethics guidelines and are therefore unacceptable: plagiarism, cheating on examinations, forgery, sabotage, unauthorized collaboration or falsification of information. Attempts to commit such acts fall under the term “academic dishonesty” and are subject to penalty.

No set of guidelines can define all possible types or degrees of academic dishonesty; thus, the aforementioned behaviors should be understood as examples of infractions rather than an exhaustive list. Individual faculty members and the vice president of academic affairs and his/her academic administrators will continue to judge each case according to its particular circumstance.

Conflict Resolution Procedure: Students who feel they have been penalized erroneously for an academic ethics infraction or think the sanction imposed is inappropriate may, within 10 business days of notification of academic sanction, appeal the matter through Procedure 4.14.01; Student Request for Conflict Resolution as Related to Academic Matters.

For a complete copy of Procedure 4.14.01 and guidance on how to proceed with the resolution, students should seek the advice of a Student Services advisor who acts in the capacity of student advocate for complaint/conflict resolution matters.

III. Computer Ethics

A. Computing Facilities

It is the policy of SCF to maintain the best possible computing facilities for as many users as possible. These facilities include large and small systems, communications networks and personal computers, as well as software, files and data. It is the College’s position that, while computers may enhance our abilities to communicate and modify the means by which we do so, the basic ethics and rights of privacy and ownership of property must be maintained. Since the computing facilities are available to and used by all segments of the College community, each computer user must act responsibly to maintain and protect the rights of others.

It is the responsibility of the computer user to determine specific conditions to use and to obtain required authorization in advance of any use.

Examples of misuse of computing facilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Violating an individual’s right to privacy.
2. Using profanity, obscenity or language offensive to another user.
3. Reposting personal communications without the author’s prior consent.
4. Disconnecting computer equipment.
5. Removing or changing files, stored on the hard drive of a personal computer, which were intended to be used but not modified by the users.
6. Sending inappropriate email messages to other people.
7. Breaking into someone else’s computer account.
8. Giving one’s personal password to a friend.
9. Using someone else’s computer account.
10. Trying a password with someone else’s user ID to see if it works.
11. Writing a program that attempts to find other people’s passwords.
12. Installing a program designed to bypass system security.
13. Connecting monitoring equipment to the College’s computer network.
14. Making a copy of a copyrighted computer program.
15. Running a program intentionally designed to slow down the computer.
16. Using College computers to play games.
17. Violating state or federal laws relating to computer use.
18. Using a College computer for business, financial gain, commercial or illegal activity.
19. Using a computer in someone else’s office without permission.

The Information Technology Services department regularly monitors all computer systems usage. When there is an indication of abuse that interferes with the proper functioning of the system or impinges on another user’s rights, Information Technology staff conducts an in-depth investigation. This can necessitate accessing a user’s files to gather evidence or to protect the system for their users. Findings of each investigation are forwarded to the campus department of Public Safety and Security for follow-up action.

All instances of unethical or irresponsible use of computing facilities are grounds for disciplinary action. The conduct may be viewed as a violation of the Code of Conduct.

Anyone who knows or suspects that he/she has been the victim of unethical computer conduct, or who observes a violation of the computer ethics code, should report such incidents to the campus department of Public Safety and Security.

Instances of abuse can result in civil and/or criminal proceedings.

B. Online-based Instruction

Students are expected to observe acceptable classroom behavior, which is behavior that fosters an atmosphere of learning, free and open exchange of thought, and respect for the professor and classmates within the learning environment. All enrolled students in SCF courses are responsible for their conduct in the online classroom. To maintain the integrity of our institution, expectations are that behavioral standards are the same for the online classroom as they are in the face-to-face classroom. Freedom of speech and expression is valued in the academic setting, and equally valued is appropriate use of the College computer system and information technology. In accordance with the acceptable standards of behavior described in the SCF comprehensive Student Code of Conduct, online students also will adhere to the expected standards set forth below. Expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.    Access the learning management system and College courses only for lawful purposes.

2.    Respect the privacy of other members of the class and other students.

3.    Respect the diversity of opinions among the instructor and members of the class, and communicate to them in a courteous manner.

4.    No use of threatening, harassing, sexually explicit language or discriminatory language, or conduct that violates state or federal law or SCF policy on sexual harassment or discrimination will be tolerated.

5.    No unauthorized posting or transmitting sexually explicit images or other content that is deemed by any administrator, supervisor or instructor of an online course to be offensive will be tolerated.

6.    No disruptive behavior online or off-line will be tolerated.

7.    Electronic communication consisting of ALL CAPS, large font or bold print may be considered unprofessional and a form of verbal abuse.

General guidelines that online students should follow include:

• Use proper language in all communications.
• Harassment of any type will not be tolerated.
• No jokes, insults, or threats of an offensive nature.
• Do not use ALL CAPITAL letters in your writing.

All SCF students enrolled in online instruction are subject to the same consequences of violations of College policy and disciplinary sanctions that are outlined in the SCF Student Code of Conduct.

Conflict Resolution Procedure

Through College Procedure 4.10.01; Disciplinary Proceedings for Violation of Standards of Student Behavior, students who are alleged to have violated a College computer ethics code(s) will be given the opportunity to be informed of the allegation(s), and subsequently the opportunity to refute the allegation(s), and make any statements or provide any evidence or mitigating circumstances related to the allegation(s).

For a complete copy of Procedure 4.10.01 and guidance on how to proceed with the resolution, students should seek the advice of a Student Services advisor who acts in the capacity of student advocate for complaint/conflict resolution matters.

IV. Standards of Behavior for Students, Visitors and Organizations

To ensure a desirable relationship with the community as well as the protection of all students, visitors and organizations, certain campus regulations and acceptable standards of personal conduct have been established. Students applying, registering and enrolling in any of the College’s courses or programs are bound by all campus regulations, which are essential to the effective, lawful, moral and orderly educational process. All campus regulations and codes of conduct are applicable to all students of the College; all persons engaged in employment either on the campus or on other property used for educational purposes by the College, all visitors, licensees, organizations and invitees.

A. Examples of Prohibited Conduct

Examples of student behavior that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.   Any activity on the part of any individual or group that causes disruption or interference with the operation of the College.

Disruption or interference with the regular operation of the College includes, but is not limited to: classroom disruption; the occupation of any building or campus area for the purpose of disruption or interference; preventing or attempting to prevent the entrance or exit of students, faculty, administrators or public safety officers in situations relating to the regular operation of the College; or interference with scheduled interviews for employment, college transfer or military careers.

2.   Participation in a campus demonstration that unreasonably disrupts the normal operations of the College and infringes upon the rights of other members of the College community; leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities within any campus, building or area; intentional obstruction that unreasonably interferes with freedom of movement, either pedestrian or vehicular, on campus.

3.   Harassment of a student or students, faculty, staff, administrative officers or the College as an institution by student or students, or by a nonstudent or nonstudents. Harassment includes any threat, in any way expressed or implied, to the person or property, or an obstruction or attempted obstruction of any individual’s authorized movement on the campus.  The threat mode may include, but it is not limited to, in-person interactions and electronic communications through social media outlets.

4.   The display of any inflammatory or incendiary signs, posters or banners; or the distribution of literature proposing any actions heretofore or hereafter prohibited.

5.   No explosives (including firecrackers, flares and fireworks), live ammunition of any kind, or weapons designated as illegal by local, state or federal law may be brought, possessed or used on any SCF campus. As College regulations and their implementation are subject to applicable law, the College will comply with Florida law governing firearms that are securely encased or otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use in vehicles by individuals 18 years old and older, as decided by the First District Court of Appeal on December 10, 2013. An exception to this policy is for law enforcement officers legally authorized to carry such weapons officially enrolled in classes or acting in the performance of their duties.

6.   Possession, transportation and/or the use of any illegal drug on the campus, in any off-campus housing sanctioned by the College, at any College-related or -sponsored activity or at other locations as may be provided by law. No person who may appear to be under the influence of an illicit drug(s) is allowed on the campus or permitted to participate in any College-related or -sponsored activity.

7.   Alcoholic beverages brought, possessed or consumed on campus, in any off-campus housing sanctioned by the College, at any College-related or -sponsored activity or at other locations as may be provided by law. No person who may appear to be intoxicated is allowed on the campus or permitted to participate in any College-related or-sponsored activity. Drunkenness or intoxication (as defined in 34 Code of Federal Regulation Section 86.100 Subpart B-Institutions of Higher Education) is prohibited on campus, in any off-campus housing sanctioned by the College, or at any College-related or -sponsored activity.

8.   The forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation to or affiliation with any organization.

9.   Tobacco use on any campus grounds, parking lots, in any off-campus housing sanctioned by the College, or any SCF-sponsored off-campus events. The use of all types of tobacco and tobacco-like products is prohibited, including smoked and smokeless tobacco, other smoke-able products and electronic cigarettes.

10.  Gambling of any kind.

11. Unauthorized use of the College’s duplicating or reproduction equipment or public address systems. Authorization for such use may be granted only by the College president or designee.

12.  Any and all official information related to the College and its operation shall be transmitted to news media only through the College’s office of Creative Services and Marketing and/or Special Assistant to the President for Constituent & Government Relations. Arrangements for reporters and/or radio or television station representatives to report or televise events on the campus shall be made only by the office of Creative Services and Marketing. Any other arrangements are unauthorized and the College reserves the right to bar (or remove) from the campus unauthorized news media representatives.

13.  Defacing, damaging or maliciously destroying any College, faculty, staff or student property.

14.  All students are required to obtain and carry a College identification card (ID) at all times and to present it upon request to any Public Safety and Security officer or faculty/staff member. Other identification must be shown if such a request is made and the person questioned does not have an ID card in his/her possession. ID cards are to be surrendered upon termination for any reason. Loss of an ID card is to be reported immediately to the Public Safety and Security office.

15.  Disorderly or unlawful behavior on the campus. Additionally, a student’s conviction of a misdemeanor or felony committed on or off campus shall be subject to disciplinary action as set forth in Procedure 4.10.01; Disciplinary Proceedings for Violation of Standards of Student Behavior.

16.  Reckless or intentional actions that endanger the mental or physical health of students, faculty or staff.

17.  Furnishing false information to the College with the intent to deceive.

18.  Any violation of federal or state criminal statutes, respective county and city ordinances and all College and SCF District Board of Trustees rules and regulations will result in disciplinary proceedings.

19.  Any type of sexual misconduct on any SCF campus or at any officially sponsored off-campus event.

20.  Issuing bad checks to the College, The SCF Store, or any College ancillary services.

21.  In accordance with Florida statutes, it is unlawful for any person operating or occupying a motor vehicle on a street or highway to operate or amplify the sound produced by a radio, tape player, or other mechanical sound-making device or instrument from within the motor vehicle so that the sound is:

       a.    Plainly audible at a distance of 100 feet or more from the motor vehicle; or

       b.    Louder than necessary for convenient hearing by persons inside the vehicle in areas adjoining churches, schools or hospitals.

22.  All visitors with motor vehicles are required to obtain a temporary parking permit from the department they are visiting. Visitors having legitimate business on the campus must present a photo identification when applying for visitors’ parking. The visitor’s vehicle must be parked in the designated visitors’ spaces. Visitors not having legitimate business on the campus will be refused parking permits and will be requested to leave the campus.

23.  Visitors, upon request by a campus security officer or College administrator, are required to provide a picture identification, ideally a driver license. Failure to do so could result in the visitor being considered a trespassee and subject to arrest.

24.  Failure to respond to an administrative summons will result in a disciplinary sanction.

The administration has the obligation to cooperate with all police authorities. When the protection of life and property and the regular, orderly operation of the College require it, the assistance of these agencies will be requested as a matter of policy. The SCF District Board of Trustees reserves the right to forbid the establishment of an SCF chapter of any club, society or other organization whose members have damaged property, interrupted the normal holding of classes, interfered with the rights of others, disrupted operation of the College, or violated any component of the Code of Conduct.

Examples of student behavior that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, those published in the Student Handbook and Planner and other College publications, including SCF Procedure 4.10.01: Disciplinary Proceedings for Violation of Standards of Student Behavior.

Conflict Resolution Procedure

Through College Procedure 4.10.01; Disciplinary Proceeding for Violation of Standards of Student Behavior, students who are alleged to have violated a College behavioral Code of Conduct will be given the opportunity to be informed of the allegation(s), and subsequently the opportunity to refute the allegation(s), make any statements, or provide any evidence and/or mitigating circumstances related to the allegation(s).

For a complete copy of Procedure 4.10.01, and guidance on how to proceed with the resolution, students should seek the advice of a student services advisor who acts in the capacity of student advocate for complaint/conflict resolution matters.

B. Prohibition of Harassment and Discrimination (SCF Rule 6HX14-2.44 and Procedure 2.44.01)

State College of Florida, Manatee - Sarasota (“SCF”) is committed to providing an educational and working environment free from harassment and discrimination based on such factors as race, color, sex, age, religion, genetic information, national origin, ethnicity, disability, marital status, sexual orientation and any other factor prohibited under applicable federal, state and local civil rights, laws, rules, and regulations (collectively referred to as “Protected Status”). SCF will not tolerate harassment or discrimination of its employees, students, applicants for admission and/or employment, volunteers, visitors, contractors, or any persons while present on any College campus or sponsored event. SCF will also attempt to protect its employees and students from harassment and discrimination by non-employees and non-students.

This Rule prohibits all forms of Discrimination and Harassment based on Protected Status. It expressly, therefore, also prohibits Sexual Assault and Sexual Exploitation, which by definition involve conduct of a sexual nature and are prohibited forms of Sexual or Gender-Based Harassment. This Rule further prohibits Stalking and Interpersonal Violence, which need not be based on an individual’s Protected Status. Finally, this Rule prohibits Complicity for knowingly assisting in an act that violates this Rule and Retaliation against an individual because of his or her good faith participation in reporting, investigation, and/or adjudication of violations of this Rule. These behaviors are collectively referred to in this Rule as Prohibited Conduct. This rule also applies to Prohibited Conduct that occurs off-campus, including online or electronic conduct, if the conduct occurs within the context of an employment or educational program or activity of the college, or has continuing adverse effects on campus or off-campus employment or educational program or activity.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 states that: No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

Sexual or Gender-Based Harassment, Sexual Assault, Sexual Exploitation, and Retaliation, as defined in this Policy, are prohibited forms of discrimination under Title IX, which covers all of the College’s programs and activities. Like racial, religious, and national origin harassment, Sexual or Gender-Based Harassment and Sexual Violence are also prohibited under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 760 et al, F.S., and other applicable laws.

The College’s prohibition against Interpersonal Violence (including domestic and dating violence) and Stalking is also governed by federal law because these forms of behavior are prohibited by the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security and Campus Crime Statistics Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1092(f) (the Clery Act) and Section 304 of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013. Such acts violate the essential dignity of our community member(s) and are contrary to our institutional values.

The College, as an educational community, will promptly and equitably respond to reports of Sexual Assault, Interpersonal Violence, and Stalking in order to eliminate the harassment, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects on any individual or the community. The College recognizes that Sexual Assault, Interpersonal Violence, and Stalking encompass a broad spectrum of conduct and will respond according to both the severity of the offense and the threat it poses to the campus community.

For the purposes of this Rule “harassment” includes but is not limited to, verbal, physical, sexual violence, assault and visual conduct that creates an intimidating, offensive, or hostile working or education environment or that interferes with work performance or educational opportunities. Some examples include racial slurs, ethnic jokes, posting of offensive statements, posters, or cartoons or other similar conduct. Sexual harassment includes solicitation of sexual favors, unwelcome sexual advances, or other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

For the purposes of this Rule “discrimination” means exclusion from participation in, or denial of the benefits of any public education program or activity, or in any employment condition or practice conducted by a public educational institution that receives or benefits from federal or state financial assistance on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, genetic information, national origin, ethnicity, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or any other factor prohibited under applicable federal, state and local civil rights laws, rules and regulations.

The College has an obligation to make reasonable efforts to investigate and address known or suspected instances of Prohibited Conduct. To foster a climate that encourages prevention and reporting of Prohibited Conduct, the College will actively promote prevention efforts, educate the College community, respond to all reports promptly, provide Interim Protective Measures to address safety and emotional well-being, and act in a manner that recognizes the inherent dignity of the individuals involved.

In the case of employees or students, if harassment or discrimination is established, SCF will discipline the offender. Disciplinary action for a violation of this policy can range from verbal or written warnings up to and including dismissal from the College depending upon the circumstances, With regard to acts of harassment or discrimination by non-employees or non-students, the College will take appropriate corrective action according to the particular circumstances involved.

This Policy is maintained by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator and the Title IX Team will review this Policy on at least an annual basis. The review will capture evolving legal requirements, evaluate the support and resources available to the parties, and assess the effectiveness of the resolution process (including the fairness of the process, the time needed to complete the process, and the sanctions and remedies imposed). The review will include the opportunity for individuals affected by the Policy to provide feedback and will incorporate an aggregate view of reports, resolution, and climate.

The President or designee(s) shall adopt procedures to implement this Policy.

There may be relevant information in other College Rules. Where that information conflicts with information in this Rule, this Rule will control. See the following policies as well:

Reasonable Substitutions/Modifications for Individuals with Disabilities (6HX14-4.015)

Code of Ethical Behavior (6HX14-2.55)

Disciplinary Action - Employee (6HX14-2.53)

Complaint/Conflict Resolution (6HX14-1.14)

Contracts: Continuing Contract Status and Annual Appointments (6HX14-2.15)

Standards of Student Behavior (6HX14-4.10)

Drug Free Campus (6HX14-1.32)

Vulnerable Persons Act- Reporting Responsibilities (6HX14-1.48)

Click here scf.edu/content/PDF/Procedures/Prohibited_Harassment_HR_2_44_01.pdf to review the complete SCF Procedure 2.44.01 - Prohibited Harassment and Nondiscrimination.

C. Prohibition of Hazing

The College will not tolerate hazing, as defined below, at or on any College property or at any College-sponsored or College-affiliated event, regardless of its location.

“Hazing” means any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for purposes including, but not limited to, initiation or admission into or affiliation with any organization operating under the sanction of the College, hereafter referred to as a “College organization.” Hazing includes, but is not limited to, pressuring or coercing the student into violating state or federal law; any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug or other substance; or other forced physical activity that could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the student, and also includes any activity that would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment, or any other forced activity that could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the student. Hazing does not include customary athletic events or other similar contests or competitions, or any activity or conduct that furthers a legal and legitimate objective.

This prohibition of hazing will apply to students and to College organizations and clubs, including acting through other persons associated with a College organization or club who are not students.

Penalties for hazing will be administered in accordance with College policies and procedures related to student disciplinary actions; subject, however, to any limitations or additional penalties contained in Subsection 1006.63, F.S.

In the case of an organization/club that authorizes hazing in blatant disregard of such rules, penalties may also include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on campus property or to otherwise operate under the sanction of the College.

All penalties imposed under the authority of the College will be in addition to any penalty imposed for violation of any of the criminal laws of this state or for violation of any other rule of the institution.

It is not a defense to a charge of hazing that the consent of the victim had been obtained, the conduct or activity was not part of an official organizational event or was not otherwise sanctioned or approved by the organization, or the conduct or activity was not done as a condition of membership.

D. Children on Campus

Students who are parents, or who assume a parental role, have the responsibility to arrange suitable care for their children while they attend class, labs or study areas. SCF does not have child care accommodations. Students are not permitted to bring children to class, nor should children be left unattended in halls, building offices or on campus. The College reserves the right to protect the safety and welfare of unattended children.

E. Mobile/Smart Device Etiquette

The use of mobile devices (cell phones, beepers, tablets and other smart devices) in the classroom is determined by the faculty member’s mobile device use guidelines for that particular class. Each faculty member determines the acceptable use of mobile devices in the classroom, from requiring the device be turned off to allowing the use of mobile devices in classroom projects. Adhere to the expectations communicated by the faculty member for that course.

F. Pets on Campus

SCF maintains a no-pets policy at any of its locations, and in any off-campus housing sanctioned by the College. There are exceptions to this policy, consistent with federal law and state statute:

• The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) provides guidelines regarding use of service animals in areas with no-pet policies.
• Florida Statute 413.08 defines service animals and the rights of individuals to bring them to areas of no-pet policies.

The primary consideration of SCF’s no-pet policy is to ensure a safe and healthy environment for the College community. The ADA policy allows service animals assisting persons with disabilities to be present on a campus. A service animal is permitted by Florida statute to accompany a person with a disability to most locations on campus, except for areas where there is danger to the service animal.

Public Safety and Security, in collaboration with the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs is responsible for maintaining compliance with the no-pet policy. Individuals using service animals may be asked to provide information regarding the service animal’s function and/or training. Definitions, examples and requests for permission to have animals on campus can be obtained from the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs or the Disability Resource Center.

Florida wildlife can be seen on all SCF campuses. The department of Public Safety and Security is responsible for enforcing state wildlife regulations. For safety reasons, fishing is not allowed at any property.

G. Wheeled Motorized Traffic

Bicycles shall not be ridden on the sidewalks between or around campus buildings. All bicycles shall be walked from the parking lot areas to the approved sites designated for bicycle storage. No skateboards, roller skates or other such roller-equipped means of transportation (i.e. scooters) will be allowed on the sidewalks between and around campus buildings. There are exceptions to this policy consistent with federal law and Florida statute that allow individuals with mobility impairments to use wheelchairs and power scooters.

H. Tobacco-Free Campus Policy

Tobacco use is not allowed on any campus grounds, parking lots, SCF-sponsored off-campus events and within SCF-owned vehicles. The use of all types of tobacco and tobacco-like products is prohibited, including smoked and smokeless tobacco, other smoke-able products and electronic cigarettes.  This policy applies to all students, employees and visitors of SCF.

I. Religious Observances

Pursuant to F.S. 1002.21; 1006.53; 1001.61: SCF shall attempt to reasonably accommodate the religious observance, practice and belief of individual students in regard to admissions, class attendance and the scheduling of examinations and work assignments. Students must provide the instructor(s) with advance notification of the purpose and anticipated length of any absence. At that time, the instructor and the student will agree upon a reasonable time and method to make up any work or tests missed. Any student who believes they have been unreasonably denied an educational benefit due to his or her religious belief or practices may seek redress by contacting the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs or the College equity officer.

J. Intellectual Property

SCF provides engaging and accessible learning environments within the context of its mission, vision and institutional values. Therefore, the College supports and encourages its employees and students to develop educational materials, scholarly and creative works, and other products that advance the mission of SCF. However, these forms of intellectual property may be subject to copyright, patent, trademark and other laws; and may generate royalty income. Additionally, such development may involve the use of College personnel and resources.

The definition of intellectual property, examples of materials subject to intellectual property rights; ownership of intellectual property; and the rights of the College, its students, faculty, and staff regarding intellectual property in those cases where a written agreement does not otherwise govern the rights of the parties is provided in SCF Procedure 5.182, Intellectual Property.

V. Student Complaint/Conflict Resolution Policies and Procedures

SCF provides an appropriate means to resolve conflicts or complaints concerning College rules, procedures and/or course policies at the lowest possible level.

Complaints may be brought to the attention of faculty and management with the assurance that they will be considered in a fair and equitable manner. Specific policies and procedures are available that provide an informal and formal, nonadversarial in-house means of addressing conflicts and/or complaints.

A student may request due process in such instances where the student perceives an inequity concerning his or her academic standing, or where his or her academic rights and/or freedoms have been violated, or where the academic/administrative regulations of the College are believed to have been inappropriately interpreted or applied.

The following due process procedures should be utilized in resolving complaints or conflicts.
 

SCF does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, or marital or veteran status in any of its educational programs, services or activities including admission and employment. Perceived discrimination based on any of these protected classes may be used as a basis for a complaint.

For guidance on how to proceed with the resolution of a conflict, students should seek the advice of a Student Services advisor who acts in the capacity of student advocate for complaint/conflict resolution matters.

Traffic Rules and Parking Regulations

Parking decals are obtained from the department of Public Safety and Security offices at SCF Bradenton or SCF Venice.  At that time, students are given a copy of the “Traffic and Parking Regulations Governing the Use of Vehicles at SCF.”  Violators are subject to appear before the SCF College Student Court and if found guilty, they will be fined in accordance with the specific violation.

The following rules and regulations are in effect 24 hours a day and pertain to all students (full-time, part-time, day or evening) and faculty and staff driving vehicles on campus. These rules have been established for the benefit of each student and employee and are approved by the Student Government Association, the College administration and SCF Board of Trustees. These rules and regulations are established and enforced in order to avoid confusion and danger in parking lots. All parking and traffic, including College Student Court, are under the supervision of the Vice President of Student Affairs.

1. All motorized vehicles of students parked at SCF must bear a decal. Decals must be prominently displayed and visible at all times. Visitors must use spaces designated for visitors.
2. Parking decals for students can be obtained at the department of Public Safety and Security.
3. All vehicles of faculty and staff of SCF must bear appropriate hang tags, which are obtained from the department of Public Safety and Security.
4. Temporarily disabled students may apply for a special identification for their vehicles from the department of Public Safety and Security.  Identifications are issued for a specific time period. In order to park in spaces designated for “handicapped,” a disabled person, by state law, must display the disabled parking permit issued by the county tag office. The permit must be attached to the Florida license plate or placed appropriately on the rear-view mirror.
5. The College assumes no responsibility for injury to persons or damages to a vehicle or its contents at any time it is operated or parked on campus.
6. All cars must be off the parking lot by 11 p.m. Owners of vehicles that must be left on property overnight for College trips, or because they are disabled, should contact the department of Public Safety and Security to indicate how long the vehicle will be left on college property.
7. Students who have decals, but temporarily drive a vehicle without decals, still must park in student parking areas.  A visible note must be displayed with date and decal number.  This policy is good for one week only.
8. Abandoned vehicles will be towed at the owner’s expense.

Violation Penalties

The student will be held responsible and penalized for the following infractions: improperly parked in handicapped space or blocking handicapped ramp; parking in undesignated areas, blocking traffic, parking in no-parking areas or parked over line; no current SCF decal, improper decal or no decal showing; parked in reserved or visitors space or parked in a motorcycle pad; moving violations (must attend College Student Court) that include driving recklessly, driving against flow of traffic, failure to have vehicle under control, speeding in excess of 10 mph, driving on a surface other than paved or failure to stop at a stop sign; drag racing (to be reported to Sheriff’s Office), parking violation, court action. Fine amounts are included in “Cost and Fee Information .”

Violation Payment Procedure Process

1. All persons ticketed for parking violations may make payments in person or mail payment by check or money order to the SCF cashier within 10 business days of receiving the ticket. SCF is not responsible for cash payment if mailed.
2. A student may appeal a citation by filing a parking violation appeal form within 10 business days from the date of violation (indicating a desire to appear before the College Student Court).
   1. A student who fails to do either 1 or 2 above will be sent a first notice to pay the fine.
   2. Any student who has not cleared a violation within 10 business days will be notified that the violation has been sent to the Vice President of Student Affairs for such action as is deemed necessary.
3. The Vice President of Student Affairs or a designated representative will take one of the following actions:
   1. Send a notice to appear before the Vice President of Student Affairs to explain the inaction.
   2. Tag records notifying the College that the student owes a fine and cannot register for another term or receive a transcript until the fine is paid.

Appeals Process

1. Any person who alleges being unjustly ticketed and wishes to appeal a violation shall file a parking violation appeal form at the department of Public Safety and Security.
2. The appeal will be adjudicated based on the current regulations. The College Student Court reserves the right to determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant and to set the amount of the fine within the limits set forth in the regulations. The decision of the College Student Court is final.

College Student Court

The College Student Court reserves the right to determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant and to set the amount of the fine if found guilty within the limits as set in the regulations. The College Student Court selects a meeting date and time. Procedures for payment of violations:

1. A student may pay fines in person in the fee payment office or make a payment (check or money order) by mail within 10 business days from the date of violation.
2. A student may register for College Student Court within 10 business days from the date of the violation indicating a desire to appear before the College Student Court.
   1. A student who fails to do either (1) or (2) above will be sent a notice to pay the fine.
   2. A student who fails to comply within 10 business days will be notified that the violation has been sent to the Vice President of Student Affairs for such action as is deemed necessary.
3.  The Vice President of Student Affairs normally takes one of the following actions:

a. Sends a notice to appear before the Vice President of Student Affairs to explain the inaction.
b. Tags records notifying the College that the student owes a fine and cannot register for another term or receive a transcript until the fine is paid.

VI. Student Discipline

The Vice President of Student Affairs is designated as the staff member of the College having primary responsibility for the administration of student discipline. Deliberate care shall be taken to ensure that students receive fair and equitable treatment under due process.

Degrees of Disciplinary Sanctions:

The following are the degrees of disciplinary sanctions that may be imposed for violation of any Student Code of Conduct.

1. Apology - A written statement of regret written by the individual or group and approved by the Vice President of Student Affairs.
2. Warning - A written or verbal notice to the student that continuation or repetition of a specified conduct will be cause for further disciplinary action.
3. Censure - A written reprimand to the student for violation of a specified regulation.
4. Disciplinary Probation - A written reprimand and warning to the student for a repetition of violations as grounds for more serious disciplinary action; also may include exclusion from participation in student privileges or extracurricular College activities, or temporary/permanent loss of privileges or use of designated College facilities for a specified time as set forth in the notice of disciplinary probation.
5. Removal from College-sponsored Housing - A temporary or permanent exclusion from any College-sponsored housing accommodations without reimbursement of any type of housing allowance, or a mandatory room charge.
6. Restitution - Reimbursement for damage to or misappropriation of property. Reimbursement may take the form of appropriate service to repair or otherwise compensate for damages.
7. Suspension - Exclusion from classes and other student privileges or activities as set forth in the notice of suspension pending final determination of an alleged violation.
8. Expulsion - Termination of student status for a definite period of time. At the end of this period of expulsion, the student is eligible to apply to the College for consideration for readmission.
9. Dismissal - Permanent termination of student status. A notification shall appear on the College record.