Student Handbook (2021-2022)

Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Rights and Responsibilities of Pierpont Community & Technical College Students Academic Advising Career Services Counseling and Disability Services Placement Testing Services

IT Help Desk Bookstore Security General Regulations and Policies Student Code of Conduct

 

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Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Statement

Pierpont Community & Technical College is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action Institution. In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the West Virginia Human Rights Act, Title IX (Educational Amendments of 1972), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended and the other applicable laws and regulations, the College provides equal opportunity to all prospective and current members of the student body, faculty, and staff on the basis of individual qualifications and merit without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, age, height, weight, religion, creed, genetic information disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression/association that is identified and defined by applicable laws and regulations in employment, admissions, educational programs and activities.

All career and technical education courses and programs are offered at Pierpont regardless of race, color, national origin, gender or disability.

The College neither affiliates knowingly with, nor grants recognition to an individual, group or organization having policies that discriminate based on race, color, gender, national origin, age, height, weight, religion, creed, genetic information disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression/association that is identified and defined by applicable laws and regulations in employment, admissions, educational programs and activities.

Further inquiries may be directed to the George Perich, Director of Human Resources who is the Section 504 and Title IX Coordinator and Affirmative Action Office, Room 200 Advanced Technology Center, 500 Galliher Way Fairmont WV 304-367-4692

Rights and Responsibilities of Pierpont Community & Technical College Students

Freedom of Association

Students may organize whatever associations they deem desirable or may affiliate with any group for which they feel qualified for membership, provided the purposes of such groups are compatible with and in the best interests of the Pierpont Community & Technical College community and its stated purposes of educating the individual. To qualify for recognition and permission to operate as a Pierpont Community & Technical College organization, all groups must follow the procedures as set forth in the Student Body Constitution and Bylaws, Article X. All student organizations concerned essentially with student activities shall be organized and administered by students and have a faculty advisor. The Advisor may or may not vote in the assembly.

Emergency Notifications

In the event of a campus emergency, every student will receive an email message in their student email account informing them of any important information. We will also post emergency messages at pierpont.edu as well as in the Pierpont Portal announcement section. Students can also opt to have a text message sent to their cell phones, Facebook, and Twitter accounts. 

Academic Advising

Jennifer McConnell, Director of Admissions and Recruiting Student Services Center
500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554; (304) 367-4907; jennifer.mcconnell@pierpont.edu

The Academic Advising Center serves Liberal Studies/General students, formerly known as “undeclared” and “First Time Freshmen.” The Advising Center is committed to assisting students as they begin their academic experience and transition into declared majors. The Academic Advising Center assists students in recognizing their academic strengths and weaknesses, in establishing realistic goals, and in accessing needed resources to map the clearest path toward timely graduation.

Advisors are knowledgeable about Pierpont’s academic programs and policies and are available as a resource for both faculty and students. In addition to assisting students in declaring academic majors at the community college level, services also include helping students map a plan to transfer into Baccalaureate programs; writing academic plans for financial aid appeals; and comparing time to degree for multiple majors’ options in cases where the student is uncertain of which degree plan to pursue.

The Academic Advising Center is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00am to 4:00pm and after hours by appointment. Walk-in, email, and phone appointments are available; however, scheduled one-on-one appointments and group advising sessions are highly recommended. Students are welcome to bring significant others to their appointments but are reminded that the students themselves are ultimately responsible for the interactions in and outcomes of the advising session.

Once students declare a major, they are then assigned to a specific faculty member in their respective academic area of study.

Once assigned an academic advisor, students will confer with these advisors to successfully complete their academic goals.

Career Services

Jennifer McConnell, Director of Admissions and Recruiting Student Services Center
500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554; (304) 367-4907; jennifer.mcconnell@pierpont.edu

Counseling and Disability Services

Suzan Clemens, Ph.D.
500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554; (304) 534-7878; (304)367-4906 (TTY); Suzan.Clemens@pierpont.edu

Counseling Services

The Counseling Services Office provides professional assistance to students experiencing a variety of personal and social problems. The staff consists of professionals trained in clinical practice and counseling. Students may seek assistance in dealing with personal and relationship issues, managing homesickness and anxiety, learning to deal with stress and many other problems. Benefits of counseling include increased self-awareness, maximizing potential and making the college experience more productive and meaningful.

Crisis Intervention

In an emergency situation that requires immediate attention call 911.

If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation on campus during office hours (M-F, 8am-4pm):

-You can come directly to the Counseling Center or call us at (304) 333-3661 to obtain help from an on-site counselor.

For an after-hours mental health crisis that does not involve physical danger:

-Please utilize a local or national crisis line for assistance.

Valley HealthCare (1800)232-0020 (Local) (1800)SUICIDE or (1800)273-TALK (1877)YOUTHLINE

Trevor Project (LBGTQ) (866)488-7386 IMALIVE.org (Online Crisis Network)

For a mental health crisis that requires physical assistance:

-Calling campus security (DPS) (304)367-4357, 911, or going to a local hospital’s Emergency Department is recommended.

CARE Team

If something has happened to you or others and you are not sure who to speak with or talk to, and it is not an emergency, use the link below to contact the care team. https://www.pierpont.edu/current-students/student-services/counseling-center/CARE

Services for Students with Disabilities

The Office of Disability Services’ mission is to eliminate disability discrimination and to ensure equal educational opportunity for students who qualify as a person with a disability under the applicable laws (ADA, Section 504). We work closely with students to determine reasonable accommodations that will minimize the disadvantage their disability may cause. Many students who were under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan during high school will qualify for services, as will many other students who might not have not received any specialized services during their K-12 education.

It is the student’s responsibility to contact the Disability Services Office and provide appropriate documentation of their disability that might interfere with their educational pursuit. Approved accommodations are determined on an individual basis. Any requirement an instructor demonstrates as essential to any directly related licensing requirement or to a program of instruction pursued by a student with a disability cannot be altered.

All incoming students who do not have ACT or SAT scores that meet the required minimum scores for entry into college-credit courses, selective programs, or who do not have the appropriate transfer courses from other colleges may be required to complete placement testing for some courses or programs of study with prerequisite requirements.

Results of this placement testing may indicate if students are eligible for admission into traditional, 3-credit/3-contact hour college-credit composition and/or college-credit math classes, or sciences courses, OR if they are required to enroll in expanded versions of those courses that entail required academic support. In some cases, students may be required to complete math and English support courses along with the gateway course.

Distance/Out-of-State students: Proctored placement testing may be available; please contact the Advising Center for details. In most cases, though, students who must travel a long distance to the campus will complete placement testing on the same day they register for classes.

High Stakes Testing 

Advanced Technology Center, 500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV (304)367-4920

Pierpont Community & Technical College (PC&TC) is an authorized High Stakes Testing Center. Pierpont’s Center is housed at the Advanced Technology Center, 500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554. It is operated in partnership with several different high stakes testing vendors. The PC&TC Testing Center conducts tests for many professions including certification and licensure testing. In addition, PC&TC is an open CLEP Testing Site and offers all currently available CLEP tests the results of which can be transmitted electronically to a student’s school choice. Please check with your school to ensure that it accepts the examination of interest.

PEARSON VUE® AUTHORIZED TESTING CENTER

Pierpont Community & Technical College is an authorized Person VUE® Testing Center. The college’s Pearson VUE® Testing Center is housed at the Advanced Technology Center. The Pearson VUE advanced computer-based testing system administers exams for the NREMT as well as leading IT certification programs such as Cisco Systems®, CompTIA, and others through a global network of quality test centers. To register for these tests, please contact the Center at (304)368-7254.

COLLEGE BOARD® (CLEP™)

The College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) allows students to demonstrate that they have acquired college-level mastery of course content in 34 different subject areas. Students who successfully complete a CLEP exam can: enrich their degree programs with higher-level courses in the same discipline, expand their horizons by taking a wider array of electives, and avoid the need to repeat material that they already know.

For students who can pursue their degrees only part-time, or who are struggling to meet the rising cost of higher education, CLEP offers an educationally sound way to shorten the path to a college degree. This benefit makes earning a degree more feasible - making it more likely that part-time or financially strapped students will continue working toward a degree. To register for these tests, please contact the Center at (304)368-7254.

Microsoft Office Specialization Certification Testing 

BOUND FOR SUCCESS Bookstore

http://www.bkstr.com/fairmontstatestore/home

The Bound for Success Bookstore is the official college bookstore for Pierpont Community & Technical College. Located on the second floor of the Falcon Center on the Locust Avenue campus, it carries textbooks, school supplies and a variety of merchandise such as study aids, general reading and test prep books, clothing, gift items, bookstore gift cards, computer supplies and imprinted Pierpont items.

The bookstore stocks both new and used textbooks for purchase, along with digital format books when available. The bookstore also offers a textbook rental program for select titles. Please call the store or visit the website for more information.

ALCOHOL & ILLEGAL DRUGS

Pierpont Community & Technical College does not permit or approve of the possession, distribution, or use of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs on any campus, or in any approved residence, or by recognized campus organizations. This is consistent with Interpretive Rule, State College System of West Virginia Board of Directors, Series No. 42.

Pierpont’s position is to firmly discourage the use of alcoholic beverages without infringing upon the rights of those persons protected by the law. The legal age in West Virginia for purchasing alcoholic liquor, wine, or non-intoxicating beer is 21.

Students are advised that they will be held responsible and disciplined for any violation of the law governing the use of alcohol or other illegal drugs. As adults, students are expected to obey the law and be responsible for their own conduct. Individuals found in violation of alcohol policies or state law, or whom display prohibited or disruptive behavior because of intoxication while on the premises, or while participating in college sponsored activity, may be subject to disciplinary action.

Individuals found violating municipal ordinances or state laws relating to the purchase or consumption of alcoholic beverages while on any campus of Pierpont Community & Technical College may also be subject to prosecution for the violation in the appropriate court. The imposition of disciplinary proceedings is not dependent upon nor determined by existence or outcome of any criminal prosecution.

Counseling services are available for students who are concerned about their drinking or drug abuse. They are there to listen to you, to help you understand the nature of alcohol and drug abuse and to suggest a program, if appropriate, to meet your needs. For more information, call (304)367-4792 or refer to the Academic Catalog.

CAMPUS SPEED LIMIT

Speed limit on campus is 15 miles per hour (unless otherwise posted) during normal conditions. Drivers are expected to yield to and stop for pedestrians.

VIOLATIONS

By state law, Pierpont Community & Technical College Public Safety officials have the authority to issue parking and traffic citations, tow vehicles, and collect a civil penalty for any violation of these regulations. Any questions concerning traffic or parking regulations should be directed to Dale Bradley, Vice President for Administration at 304-367-4907.

COMPLIANCE WITH MILITARY SELECTIVE SERVICE ACT

State law provides that a male person who has attained the age of eighteen (18) years may not enroll in a state-supported institution of postsecondary education unless he is in compliance with the Military Selective Service Act (50 U.S. Code, Appendix 451, et seq. and the amendments thereto). A male person may not receive a loan, grant, scholarship or other financial assistance for postsecondary higher education funded by state revenue, including federal funds or gifts and grants accepted by this State, or receive a student loan guaranteed by the State unless he is in compliance with the Military Selective Service Act. Selective Service Act registration information should be available at all United States Postal Service facilities and may be available at some high schools. The Selective Service System also provides information through a web site, http://www.sss.gov.

COMPUTER ABUSE POLICY

Computer abuse will not be tolerated. Any abuse of campus computers and/or computing facilities is also subject to applicable sections of the “College Standards of Personal and Group Conduct” contained in this handbook.

Computer Usage Guidelines

Users are to have a valid UCA and are only use those computer resources that are specifically authorized. Users may only use their UCA in accordance with its authorized purpose. Users should not let another person use their UCA. Passwords should be changed often to ensure that private and secure files are kept safe. Abuse or misuse of Pierpont computing resources will also be subject to disciplinary action as determined by the Pierpont Chief Judicial Officer. Students should refer to Board of Governors Policy 53  for complete guidelines.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL VIOLATION DISCLOSURES

Parental Notification of Alcohol and Drug Violations: The Higher Education Amendments of 1998 provides that:

“Nothing in this Act or the Higher Education Act of 1965 shall be construed to prohibit an institution of higher education from disclosing, to a parent or legal guardian of a student, information regarding any violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any rule or policy of the institution, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance, regardless of whether that information is contained in the student’s education record, if -

1. the student is under the age of 21; and
2. the institution determines that the student has committed a disciplinary violation with respect to such use or possession.”

Pierpont  Community  &  Technical  College  Policy

Per the guidelines of the  Higher Education Amendments of 1998, Pierpont may notify the parents or legal guardians of students who are involved in disruptive or inappropriate behavior or incidents resulting in a residence hall or campus disciplinary action and which involves the use or possession of alcohol or drugs.

DRUG-FREE AWARENESS PROGRAM

In compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, Pierpont has a Drug-Free Awareness Program designed to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees. Further employment inquiries may be directed to the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources and student issues and concerns may be directed to the Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY

Pierpont Community & Technical College is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action institution. In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, West Virginia Human Rights Act, Title IX (Educational Amendments of 1972), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the other applicable laws and regulations, the institution provides equal opportunity to all prospective and current members of the student body, faculty, and staff on the basis of individual qualifications and merit without regard to race, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation as identified and defined by law.

Pierpont neither affiliates knowingly with nor grants recognition to any individual, group or organization having policies that discriminate based on race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation as defined by applicable laws and regulations. Further inquiries may be directed to Mr. George Perich, Director of Human Resources, 500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV, 304-367-4692.

THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) provides students with the right to inspect and review information contained in their educational records, to challenge the contents of their educational records, to have a hearing if the outcome of the challenge is unsatisfactory and to submit explanatory statements for inclusion in their files if they feel the decisions of the hearing panels are unacceptable. Students wishing to review their educational records must contact the campus official in charge of the office in which the records are located. Students may not inspect records to which they have waived their rights of inspection and review.

Within the Pierpont community, only those members, individually or collectively, acting in the student’s educational interest are allowed access to student education records. These members include personnel in the offices of Admissions and Records, Student Services, Financial Aid, Business, academic colleges and schools, departments, and academic advisors.

HARASSMENT POLICY

For more information or to file a complaint, call: Director of Human Resources, 500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV; 304-367-4692

Emphasis is given to supporting an environment that values students, faculty, and staff of diverse backgrounds and encourages the fulfillment of educational objectives and potentials free from harassment. Those categories of speech that are protected under First Amendment freedom of speech protections, but which have negative connotations, are however considered inappropriate and offensive behaviors at Pierpont and will be addressed through educational, and, as appropriate, disciplinary measures. The policy prohibits acts of written and/or physical abuse and harassment, which deny, prohibit, or violate the human rights or civil rights of any member of Pierpont Community & Technical College community of employees and students. The policy also prohibits verbal harassment that would tend to incite an immediate breach of the peace or provoke a violent reaction. The responsibility for understanding and respecting diversity is campus-wide, not the sole responsibility of any office or person.

Statement on Racial Harassment

This statement should be used in conjunction with the Pierpont’s Harassment Policy, which describes in detail Pierpont’s philosophical approach to embracing diversity and multiculturalism, and outlines approaches to addressing incidents of harassment. This Statement on Racial Harassment provides clarifying language regarding one form of harassment, racial harassment.

For more information or to file a complaint call: (304) 367-4892; Steve Leach; Room 200, Advanced Technology Center Pierpont Community & Technical College Fairmont, WV 26554

Statement on Sexual Harassment

For more information or to file a complaint call: (304)367-4907; Lyla Grandstaff Title IX Coordinator; 500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554; Pierpont Community & Technical College Fairmont, WV 26554

HAZING

No student shall, individually or by joining with one or more other persons, engage in any act of hazing involving another member of the institutional community. Hazing may be defined as follows:

• to subject to cruel horseplay
• to harass or punish by the imposition of disagreeable tasks
• to frighten, scold, beat, or annoy by playing abusive tricks upon an individual

Pierpont Community & Technical College prohibits any action, which subjects a new member, initiate, or member of a student organization to activities, which are personally demeaning or involve a substantial risk of physical injury. This includes both organized rites of initiations and informal activities.

Hazing may also include but is not limited to any brutality such as paddling, whipping, forced calisthenics, exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, or other substance or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health or safety of the individual. Hazing shall also include any activity which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, and forced conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment. Students involved in hazing activities are subject to institutional disciplinary action and criminal prosecution.

PARKING

All students wishing to park a car at Pierpont Community & Technical College owned campus locations will be provided with a Parking sticker. Parking stickers are required to park at the Locust Avenue, Advanced Technology Center, Merchant Street, Caperton Center and Byrd National Aerospace Education Center 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Parking stickers are not required at regional locations owned by county Boards of Education or other entities. The Parking sticker should be placed on the rear driver side window at the top or bottom of the window.

Students may obtain a Parking sticker at the Pierpont Student Services Center, located at 248 Hardway Building of the Locust Avenue Campus. Hangers must be displayed from the vehicle’s rear-view mirror. Certain parking areas are designated as parking for faculty and staff only. Students are not allowed to park in these areas. The top level of the Locust Avenue parking garage is for visitors and faculty/staff. Students must use the first five levels of the garage, entering from Bryant Street. Overnight parking is allowed only in selective parking lots and the garage. Pierpont assumes no responsibility for damage to or theft of any vehicle or its contents at any time while the vehicle is on any campus.

POSTING OF SIGNS AND NOTICES ON CAMPUS

The following regulations regarding posters, signs, and public notices of any type have been established:

To comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, all advertising literature of organizations sponsoring activities must indicate that the event will be made accessible to persons with disabilities, and auxiliary aids and services will be made available.

Posters, signs, and public notices of any type may be displayed only on bulletin boards. Posting material on any internal or external walls, doors, windows, or any other surfaces is prohibited.

No commercial notices may be posted on campus.

Special exterior signs that announce activities of campus-wide nature may be displayed upon receipt of approval from the Office of Student Affairs. These announcements generally include Student Government-sponsored activities, platform speakers, major musical concerts, dramatic productions, and varsity athletic events. Unusual requests will be referred to the Facilities Administration Council by the Office of Student Affairs.

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

As required by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, reasonable accommodations will be provided for those students whose disability may affect their pursuit of a college education. These students must contact the Disability Services office at (304)534-7878 and attend an intake appointment if these services are desired. Disability Services is in the Turley Center, Room 316. Documentation of the disability for which accommodations are being requested is required. Information about documentation requirements is available in the Disability Services section on the Pierpont website. Students who are registered must present to the faculty their accommodation letter for each class every semester and have the faculty sign the letter to receive the accommodations. For additional information contact the coordinator for Disability Services at (304)367-4073 or consult the Disability Services webpage.

SEXUAL ASSAULT

Pierpont will not tolerate, in any manner, any sexual assault on campus or at any campus-related facility. Violators will be prosecuted fully of the law. Pierpont provides counseling free of charge to students who are sexual assault survivors. Appointments are made by phone at (304) 333-3661 or in person at the Counseling Center during regular hours of operation (M-F, 8-4). If crisis counseling is required after hours, an individual can contact:

• Hope Inc.:  Domestic Violence Center in Fairmont at (304)367-1100.
• Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network Hotline at (1800)-656-HOPE (4673). It is a national 24-hour hotline that can be accessed anywhere in the United States.
• WV Foundation for Rape Information & Services: http://www.fris.org/CrisisCenters/WVCrisisCenters.html

See the Title IX Web page and BOG policy 9 for additional information.

In accordance with Title IX regulations, the institution has designated George Perich as Title IX Coordinator. Mr. Perich is charged with monitoring compliance with these regulations. Questions regarding Title IX, as well as concerns and complaints of non-compliance, may be directed to her at (304)367-4962.

The Title IX Coordinator oversees the dissemination of information regarding Title IX to students, staff and faculty; coordinates training for employees; maintains Title IX grievance/complaint files; monitors Title IX Deputies in the investigation and disposition of complaints; and answers inquiries from college and community members.

Title IX deputies at Pierpont (a) field inquiries from students, faculty, staff, and administrators regarding their rights and responsibilities under Title IX, (b) help to investigate cases of alleged discrimination, and (c) assist the Title IX Coordinator in oversight and implementation of Title IX compliance and training efforts.

In addition, the Counseling Center offers counseling to sexual assault victims as well as family and friends. Counseling services are free of charge and appointments may be made by phone at (304) 333-3661.

SMOKING

Policy Statement: Research demonstrates that cigarette smoking is a clear and present danger to health. Current research also emphasizes the extreme danger to non-smokers from secondary smoke. Therefore, Pierpont Community & Technical College recognizes its duty to provide a safe and healthy environment and is a tobacco free campus. Smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco will be prohibited on the campuses of Pierpont Community & Technical College. This applies to the Locust Avenue Campus in Fairmont, the Gaston Caperton Center in Clarksburg, the Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center in Bridgeport, the North Central Advanced Technology Center and all regional locations. Smoking is also prohibited in any motor vehicle owned, leased, or otherwise operated by Pierpont Community & Technical College. Visitors are expected to comply with this policy. Tobacco products will not be sold on campus. For more information on this policy, please refer to Board of Governors Policy 60.

The success of this policy will require the understanding and cooperation of all smokers and non-smokers, and their acceptance of the responsibility to observe this smoking policy. The Director of Human Resources, in cooperation with the Student Health Service Staff and the Staff Training and Development Committee, will schedule smoking cessation classes for employees and students who wish to avail themselves of the classes. Anyone detecting a violation of this policy should immediately notify the violator.

SOCIAL JUSTICE POLICY

Consistent with its comprehensive mission, and recognizing that the development of human potential is a fundamental goal in a democratic society, the Pierpont Community & Technical College Board of Governors promotes an educational system that values cultural and ethnic diversity and understanding; that provides for the preparation of students for full and meaningful participation in a changing world; and that promotes equitable and fair treatment in every aspect of campus life and employment for all persons, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual preference, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran status, or disability. For more information on this policy, please refer to Board of Governors Policy 8.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Social Media Guidelines for Pierpont can be found at: https://www.pierpont.edu/webcommunications/socialmediaWhen participating, be upfront and honest about who you are and what you represent. Use common sense before you post or comment and respect the values and etiquette of the communities that you join.

• Be transparent about your identity and if you are representing Pierpont.
• Clearly state your roles and goals
• Never conceal your identity
• Ask your supervisor when you need approval to respond directly to users on sites.
• Post accurate and useful information
• Don’t self-promote
• Have all the facts before you post
• Fact check before posting
• Cite and link sources
• If you have questions about appropriateness, don’t post, ask a supervisor

• If you make an error, correct as soon as possible
• Post quick, concise and easy to read posts
• Don’t use images or logos you do not have permission to use
• Monitor your sites and update frequently
• Don’t spam or make remarks that are off topic
• Maintain confidentiality and data security, don’t post confidential or proprietary information
• Don’t violate the Freedom of Information and Protection Privacy Act
• Personnel matters regarding employees and students should not be discussed
• Maintain personal sites on your own time and own computer Before responding ask yourself:
• Does this comment need a response?
• Am I the right person to respond?
• Do I know the culture of the blog or online community? Tips
• Speak in the first person
• Be personable and respectful
• Share links to official sources
• Don’t leak confidential information
• Proofread at least three times before posting

SOLICITATION

“All solicitation and selling of products and articles upon property under the jurisdiction of the State System of West Virginia Board of Directors is prohibited except by organizations and groups directly connected with the institution and upon written approval.” (Series 55)

On-Campus Sales (General): Advance permission of at least two weeks must be obtained from the Office of Student Activities in writing before any recognized campus organization may conduct a sale on campus (excluding food sales). See the Student Organization Handbook for details on permitted fund-raising activities and suggested sources for club funding. 

On-Campus Sales (Food Sales): Advance permission of at least one week must be obtained from the Office of Student Activities in writing before any recognized campus organization may conduct a food sale. No more than two sales per semester will be granted for any recognized campus organization. Any student group conducting an unauthorized sale will be subject to disciplinary action.

Off-Campus Sales: Student organizations wishing to solicit off campus must first consult with the Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement to review their plans and be oriented to local solicitation regulations. The City of Fairmont requires that all groups seeking solicitation permits in the city must file a registration statement giving the: group’s name, national and state or local chapter, address, date established, names of officers and director, a copy of the group’s financial statement, a copy of forms establishing the group’s tax-exempt status, general purpose of the fundraising and the persons in charge of collection and distribution of the proceeds.

Funds and Gifts: No individual, firm, group, organization, or corporation is permitted to solicit funds through sales, services, or donations on any Pierpont Community & Technical College campus for either commercial or charitable purposes without authorization in writing of the Vice President for Organization and Development. No student of Pierpont Community & Technical College has authority to participate in the solicitation of funds by sales or through donations, with intention stated or implied that funds so received are to be used for the benefit of Pierpont or the students of Pierpont without written authorization of the Vice President for Organization and Development. This limitation applies to activities either on or off campus. No individual, firm, group, organization, or other agency has authority to use the name of Pierpont Community & Technical College to secure funds for any purpose, by any means, without the written permission of the Vice President for Organization and Development.

Lotteries and Raffles: Raising funds using lotteries, raffles, or any other form of wagering is restricted by West Virginia State law and by Pierpont Community & Technical College regulations. Any on-campus lottery must first be approved by the Office of Student Affairs. Student organizations contemplating an off-campus lottery should contact the Vice President for Organization and Development. A price charged for an item for sale or for admission to an event must entitle the purchaser to something of full value for their money. The practice of offering for sale some item of little value whereby the holder may participate in a lottery drawing or other game of chance is prohibited. The use of “door prizes” at dances or other social events is legal so long as those paying the price of admission are provided with full value in entertainment for the price paid, and so long as the door prize drawing is incidental and used only as a minor feature of the “Occasion”. “Door prizes” may not be solicited from local business firms. Exceptions to this rule must be cleared through the Office of Student Affairs in conjunction with the Vice President for Organization and Development where an unusual campus-wide event necessitates community involvement.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT

The Office of Student Employment serves Pierpont students wanting a part-time job on campus or a part-time community service job off-campus. Student employment jobs give students the opportunity to earn extra money, learn valuable skills and experience to take with them when they graduate, and build valuable relationships with faculty, staff, supervisors and other students.

Federal Work-Study and Auxiliary Student Workers Programs are available for employment. Federal Work-Study is funded through the federal government and Pierpont. Awards are given on a financial need basis. The Auxiliary Student Worker program is funded directly by the institution and is not needs-based.

Note: Pierpont is an equal opportunity employer.

WEAPONS

Who can report an incident?

You. Not only can you report an incident, but any member of the campus community can report inappropriate behavior by our students. Any student, faculty member, staff member, administrator, or a concerned party may bring a complaint to the attention of the Pierpont Chief Judicial Officer (CJO). Persons who plan to bring a complaint against a student should notify the offices as quickly as possible.

How do I report an incident?

You may file a report with Pierpont’s Chief Judicial Officer by contacting 500 Galliher Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554 or (304)367-4907.

The written report should include date; times; student(s) involved; witness(es); a factual account of what occurred (no opinions); and a signature.

Once a report is received, it will be investigated and appropriate action(s) will be taken. If the student is deemed to be an immediate threat to an individual or the campus community, s/he will be removed from campus pending the completion of the investigation. The student has the right to appeal.

The Judicial Process: The Nuts and Bolts

Below is the abbreviated version of the judicial process.

Student Conduct Hearing:

When a Pierpont student violates a student conduct policy off-campus, on- campus (but not in the residence halls), or receives a Magistrate Citation, s/he first is scheduled to attend a Student Conduct Hearing conducted by the Pierpont Chief Judicial Officer (CJO);

1. During this hearing, the CJO reviews the initial report, police report, and witness statement(s). The conduct officer will talk directly to the alleged offending person. After this student conduct hearing, the student will plea responsible or not responsible for his/her action(s).

1. If s/he accepts responsibility, the CJO will decide on any sanctioning or follow up to occur
2. If s/he denies being involved in the alleged incident, the CJO would continue his/her investigation. Once the hearing officer has decided based on all aspects of the case, the hearing officer will render an informed decision based off all information provided. Decisions are made under preponderance of the evidence. “Preponderance of the evidence” means evidence which is of greater weight or more convincing than the evidence which is offered in opposition to it; that is, evidence which shows that the facts sought to be proved is more probable than not.

Primary judicial authority resides with the CJO. Appeals of CJOs decisions may be referred to Student Hearing Board (SHB).

In cases involving student conduct sanctioning, the student has five business days from the date the outcome letter was sent to submit a written appeal to the Pierpont CJO. If an outcome was determined by the CJO of Fairmont State as related to housing matters, and response should be forwarded to the Fairmont State CJO.

1. The written appeal should include any supporting documents, videos, or witness statements.
2. Sanctions originally imposed will stay until an outcome has been determined. If a student has been removed from the residence halls or from the college this may remain in place until the appeal process is complete, especially when there is perceived danger.
3. The appropriate CJO will review the records and supporting documents to consider the following:
   1. Affirm the finding of responsibility
   2. Affirm the finding of responsibility and reduce but not eliminate the sanction(s) or
   3. Remand the case to the same or a new Hearing Officer

Grounds for an appeal are considered if any of the following are met:

1. New evidence is available that was not present at the time of the original hearing.
2. A violation of due process or material deviation from substantive and procedural standards.

The Student Hearing Board

The Student Hearing Board hears all appeals. The SHB is composed of faculty members elected by Pierpont Faculty Senate. The Board hears cases as directed by the CJO (see grounds to appeal). The CJO will notify the chairperson of the SCAB.

The SHB shall consist of eight faculty members from Pierpont. For the appeals proceeding, the SHB hearing cases shall be constituted with:

A chairperson, two faculty members from the SHB, and two appointed students. The SHB will annually elect a chairperson who will not have a vote when hearing cases.

After hearing all related evidence, the panel by secret ballot shall render a decision regarding the academic appeal.

The final review of the SHB hearings and discussions shall reside with the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management.

1. During hearing(s), no party present shall be accompanied by legal counsel. The student may be accompanied by an advisor who may be a parent, legal guardian, another student, faculty, or staff member. If that person happens to be an attorney, that person may not act as attorney during the hearing.

2. Both parties may present witnesses.

3. During the hearing(s), the SHB may hear and consider any relevant information. The determination of what is and is not relevant rests solely with the Pierpont CJO.

4. After reviewing all information, the SHB will convene to decide the case. This discussion will not be recorded and must be confidential. They may render one of the following decisions:

   1. Impose appropriate sanctions which may be disciplinary suspension from classes and being banned from campus, or

   2. Grant the appeal and dismiss the case, or

   3. Public Safety must a conduct further investigation.

THE FINAL APPEAL

If the student desires, s/he may submit a written appeal to the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management. Based upon the written documentation, he/she may uphold the original decision or reverse the decision.

THE VIOLATIONS

A student that commits any of the following acts is subject to sanction:

Abusive Conduct

Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, coercion and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.

Alcohol

Use, possession, manufacturing, furnishing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages (except as expressly permitted by University/College regulations), or public intoxication. Students may not furnish alcohol to a person under the age of twenty- one. Students may not operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or while impaired by the consumption of alcohol.

Disorderly Conduct

Conduct which is disorderly, lewd, or indecent; breach of peace.

Disruption of Activities

Disruption or obstruction of, or leading or inciting others to disrupt or obstruct, teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, or other University/College activities.

Drug Possession/Use

Tobacco Use (Pierpont BOG Policy 60)

The use of tobacco and tobacco related products is prohibited on all premises owned, operated, leased or occupied by Pierpont Community & Technical College, or any street, road or thoroughfare passing through Pierpont owned property. This definition includes regional campuses.

Prohibited tobacco and tobacco related products include, but are not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco, dip, pipes, cigars, cigarillos, hookah or waterpipe smoking, snus and snuff. This policy applies to faculty, staff, students, contractors, vendors, and visitors, and it applies to all indoor and outdoor events.

There shall be no advertising, sale or free sampling of tobacco or tobacco related products on Pierpont Campuses. Littering the campus with the remains of tobacco, tobacco related products or other related waste products are prohibited. All members of the College community and visitors must comply with this policy. Violation of the policy by employees, students and visitors may be subject  to  fines  and/or  disciplinary  action.  The  President’s  designees  are responsible for the enforcement of this policy.

Misuse of Student ID Card/Keys

Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any University/College premises or unauthorized entry to or use of University/College premises.

Failure to Comply/Uncooperative Behavior

Failure to comply with directions of University/College officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties and/or failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so.

Firearms/Weapons

Using, possessing, or storing of firearms, explosives, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals on any campus property.

Fire Violations

Actions which cause or attempts to cause a fire or explosion, falsely reporting a fire, explosion or an explosive device, tampering with fire safety equipment or intentionally failing to evacuate university buildings during a fire alarm.

• Forging or altering, or causing to be altered, the record of any grade in a grade book or other educational record;
• Use of university documents or instruments of identification with intent to defraud;
• Presenting false data or intentionally misrepresenting one’s records for admission, registration, or withdrawal from the university or from a university course;
• Knowingly presenting false data or intentionally misrepresenting one’s records for personal gain;
• Knowingly furnishing the results of research projects or experiments for the inclusion in another’s work without proper citation;
• Knowingly furnishing false statements in any university academic proceeding.

Harassment

Harassment is repeated, unwelcomed, verbal, written, physical, or any  other conduct that disrupts or interferes with a student’s rights to a healthy environment.

Hazing

No student shall, individually or by joining with one or more other persons, engage in any act of hazing involving another member of the institutional community. Hazing may be defined as follows:

• To subject to cruel horseplay
• To harass or punish by the imposition of disagreeable tasks
• To frighten, scold, beat, or annoy by playing abusive tricks upon an individual

Pierpont Community & Technical College prohibit any action, which subjects a new member, initiate, or member of a student organization to activities, which are personally demeaning or involve a substantial risk of physical injury. This includes both organized rites of initiations, and informal activities.

Hazing may also include but is not limited to any brutality such as:

• paddling
• whipping
• forced calisthenics
• exposure to the elements
• forced consumption of any food, liquor, or other substance
• or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical
• health or safety of the individual
• and shall include any activity which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress such as:
  • sleep deprivation
  • forced exclusion from social contact
  • forced conduct which could result in extreme embarrassment or adverse effect

Students involved in hazing activities are subject to institutional disciplinary action and criminal prosecution.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined in terms of prohibited acts. Students are expected to understand that such practices constitute academic dishonesty regardless of motive. Those who deny deceitful intent, claim not to have known that the act constituted plagiarism, or maintain that what they did was inadvertent are nevertheless subject to penalties when plagiarism has been confirmed. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to, the following:

 

1. Submitting as one’s own work the product of someone else’s research, writing, artistic conception, invention, or design; that is, submitting as one’s own work any report, notebook, speech, outline, theme, thesis, dissertation, commercially prepared paper, musical piece or other written, visual, oral or electronic/computerized material that has been copied in whole or in part from the work of others, whether such source is published or unpublished;

2. Incorporating in one’s submission, without appropriate acknowledgment and attribution, portions of the works of others; that is, failing to use the conventional marks and symbols to acknowledge the use of verbatim and near-verbatim passages of someone else’s work or failing to name the source of words, pictures, graphs, etc., other than one’s own, that are incorporated into any work submitted as one’s own.

3. Cheating and dishonest practices in connection with examinations, papers, and projects including, but not limited to:

   1. Obtaining help from another student during examinations;

   2. Knowingly giving help to another student during examinations, taking an examination or doing academic work for another student, or providing one’s own work for another student to copy and submit as his/her own;

   3. The unauthorized use of notes, books, or other sources of information during examinations;

   4. Obtaining without authorization an examination or any part thereof.

Physical Assault or Battery

The use of physical force against an individual or acts that cause physical injury. Intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with another person or intentionally causing harm to another person.

Policy ViolationsViolation of any published University/College policies, rules or regulations in hard copy or available electronically on the University/College websites.

Sexual Assault

Sexual intercourse with, and/or sexual intrusion against, a person capable of giving consent, without such person’s consent, or a person incapable of giving consent;

Sexual Exploitation

Non-consensual recording or photographing of sexual activity not limited to recordings, photos, or other images of an individual’s sexual activity. Allowing third parties to observe sexual activity.

Stalking

Occurs when a person engages in a course of conduct directed at a specific person under a set of circumstances that would cause a person to fear bodily injury or to experience emotional distress.

Department of Justice definition of Stalking:

Stalking includes, (1)Repeated, unwanted, intrusive, and frightening communications from a perpetrator by phone, mail, or e-mail; (2) Repeatedly leaving or sending victims unwanted items, presents, flowers;(3) Following or waiting for a victim at places such as home, school, work, or place of recreation; (4) Making direct or indirect threats to harm the victim, victim’s children, family, or pets; (5) Damaging or threatening to damage the victim’s property; and (6) Posting information or spreading rumors about the victim on the internet in a public place or by word of mouth.

Student Conduct Violations

1. Failure to obey the notice from a Student Conduct Board, College official to appear for a meeting or hearing for violations of the College/University Code of Student Conduct.

2. Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before a Student Hearing/Conduct Board.

3. Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a judicial proceeding.

4. Institution of a student conduct code proceeding in bad faith.

5. Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the judicial and other proceedings associated with the College/University Student Code of Conduct.

6. Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a Student Hearing/Conduct Board prior to, and/or during the course of, the judicial proceeding.

7. Harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of a member of a Student Hearing/Conduct Board prior to, during, and/or after a judicial proceeding.

8. Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the student code.

9. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the judicial system.

1. Unauthorized entry into a file, to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.

2. Unauthorized transfer of a file.

3. Unauthorized use of another individual’s identification and password.

4. Use of computing facilities to improperly interfere with the work of another student, faculty member, or University official.

5. Use of computing facilities to send obscene or abusive messages.

6. Use of computing facilities to improperly interfere with normal operation of the University or College computing system.

7. Use of computing facilities and resources in violation of copyright laws.

8. Any violation of the College/University Computer Use Policy.

Theft

Attempted or actual theft of and/or damage to property.

Traffic Obstruction

Improper obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

Unauthorized Entry/Presence

Students and their guests may not enter any residence property without permission. This includes but is not limited to occupying any restricted, locked, or closed residence hall or campus facility (including roofs and housekeeper’s closets, offices, dining hall, computer labs, mechanical areas, fitness centers, student rooms, or elevators). Students and their guests may not enter the restroom of the opposite sex, enter a residence hall through a residence hall window, or any other unauthorized entrance, and are not permitted to prop or use (except in an emergency situation) an exterior, emergency exit, or alarmed door. Students and their guests are strictly prohibited from entering a construction area or safety zone without authorization. Furthermore, residents may not enter a residence hall or campus property after having been evicted or restricted from a residence hall or campus property, or allow access to others who have been restricted from a residence hall or campus property. Department of Public Safety will be contacted for reported or suspected cases of trespassing. Typical sanctions will be at the discretion of the student conduct officer.

Possible Sanctions

Warning: A notice in writing to the student that the student is violating or has violated Board of Governors policies, institutional rules and regulations, or the Student Code of Conduct. Any further prohibited conduct could result in more severe disciplinary action.

Probation I: An official disciplinary status enacted for a specified duration admonishing a student that any further misconduct during this time may result in suspension. A copy of the notice is sent to the student’s Academic Dean and to the student’s parent(s)/guardian if he/she is a dependent.

Effective January 4, 2021

The Temporary Policy provisions contained herein shall apply to every student, including those who have dual enrollment status while on the premises of the campuses of the College, except as otherwise expressly specified herein. Unless otherwise specified herein, the use of the term “student” hereafter shall include all levels of students and dual enrollment students of the College.

All policies herein are adopted to help ensure adherence to State and Health regulations applicable to the College and to enhance the personal safety of Pierpont’s students, employees, and other members of the Pierpont community. The College emphasizes that while many of these policies provide at least some safety benefit to the employee whose compliance is required; the policies are in all cases also designed to enhance the safety of others on the campus.

FACE COVERING POLICY

All students shall wear a Face Covering while on campus except under the following excepted conditions:

• While outdoors and maintaining social distancing during rigorous exercise. However, walking on a campus sidewalk will not allow a person to maintain such distances on an uninterrupted basis, so failure to wear a Face Covering while walking on the sidewalks of the campus would typically violate this policy;

• While in a personal vehicle;

• While working in a laboratory or other setting in which alternative facial protective equipment, which covers the nose and mouth, is utilized;

• While inside their assigned campus residence hall room;

• While alone in a single occupancy restroom;

• While eating in a room designated for eating meals and while maintaining the applicable distances from other persons; and

• During any brief period when removal of the Face Covering is necessary for personal health or welfare, provided that no other person is within six linear feet of the student.

Students with a physician-documented medical condition which would be complicated by use of a Face Covering should immediately contact the Support Services, Office of Disability Services via email at access@pierpont.edu or call 304-534-7878 to discuss possible accommodations.

For purposes of this Policy, compliant wearing of a Face Covering includes the following standards: i) Either cloth or medical Face Coverings may be used; ii) the Face Covering must provide continuous coverage of both the nose and mouth; iii) the Face Covering must be maintained in a reasonably hygienic condition.

Students may use commercially made or home-made Face Coverings, which must be appropriate to a professional and academic environment

PERSONAL HYGIENE

Adherence to CDC Guidelines as to personal hygiene to help reduce spread of virus is required:

• Cover coughs/sneezes with tissue, and promptly place used tissue in trash. Then promptly wash hands. If other covering is unavailable, cough or sneeze into elbow;

• Frequently wash hands rigorously with soap and water. Rigorous compliance to interpersonal distancing requirements; and

• Compliant use of Face Coverings.

PHYSICAL/ SOCIAL DISTANCING

Every student is obligated to make a good faith effort to comply with the physical/social distancing guidelines established by CDC, which recommends a minimum of six feet interpersonal distance to the maximum degree achievable. Willful or reckless disregard of distancing from others is prohibited. Generally, all meetings of students outside classroom requirements should continue to be conducted virtually, unless there are specific reasons why a fully socially distanced physical meeting should occur. The outside grounds of the College may reasonably be used by small groups of socially distanced students.

MANDATORY COVID-19 TESTING

Students must comply with institutional policies related to mandatory COVID-19 testing.

PERSONAL ILLNESS

A student should not be on campus if feeling any symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19, flu, or cold, if not known to be caused by an alternative, specific condition such as allergies. If experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, a student should immediately leave campus. If a student is missing class due to COVID-19 reasons, they should make notification of their absence to COVIDReporting@pierpont.edu and include their student identification number, dates of absence, and documentation for their absence

ENFORCEMENT

These temporary COVID-19 policies are mandatory as to all students while on campus. The College has maintained a variety of safety policies throughout its history. If a student fails to comply with this policy, it may be addressed as a Student Conduct matter in the ordinary course of Student Conduct practices under Board of Governors policy #17 “Students Rights and Responsibilities”.   Should a student fail to comply with these temporary COVID-19 policies, all meetings and hearings for Student Conduct will be conducted virtually and any charges relating to health/safety compliance will be expedited so that each alleged violation is addressed rapidly. Negligent non-compliance may be a matter of counseling and/or progressive discipline, depending upon the circumstances because these are safety compliance issues, non-compliance could immediately result in stronger, immediate sanctions. Willful non- compliance would constitute a serious infraction and is subject to Student Conduct action and more harsh sanctions, which could include suspension or expulsion.