STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Walla Walla Community College District 20 is supportive of diversity among ideas, cultures, and student characteristics in the pursuit of advancing one's education. A responsibility to secure, respect, and protect such opportunities and conditions is shared by all members of the academic community. As a member of this community, students are expected to uphold and be accountable for this student code of conduct both on and off campus and acknowledge that the college has the authority to take disciplinary action when a student violates these policies. As an agency of the state of Washington, the college must respect and adhere to all laws established by local, state, and federal authorities. This student code of conduct has been developed to educate students and protect the welfare of the community.

As members of the academic community, students are encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in an independent search for truth. Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus, and in the larger community. Students should exercise their freedom with responsibility. The responsibility to secure and to respect general conditions conducive to the freedom to learn is shared by all members of the college community. The following enumerated rights are guaranteed to each student within the limitations of statutory law and college policy, and are deemed necessary to achieve the educational goals of the college, including:

(1) Academic freedom - Students are guaranteed the rights of free inquiry, expression, and assembly upon and within college facilities that are generally open and available to the public. Students are free to pursue appropriate educational objectives from among the college's curricula, programs, and services, subject to the limitations of RCW 28B.50.090 (3)(b). Students shall be protected from academic evaluation which is arbitrary, prejudiced, or capricious, but are responsible for meeting the standards of academic performance established by each of their instructors. Students have the right to a learning environment which is free from unlawful discrimination, inappropriate and disrespectful conduct, and all harassment, including sexual harassment. Chapter 132T-105 WAC describes the college's student conduct procedures for handling Title IX complaints.

(2) Due process - The rights of students to be secure in their persons, quarters, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures is guaranteed. No disciplinary sanction may be imposed on any student without notice to the accused of the nature of the charges. A student accused of violating this student code of conduct is entitled, upon request, to procedural due process as set forth in this chapter.

The following definitions shall apply for the purpose of this student code of conduct unless such terms are defined otherwise herein:

Advisor - A person of the complainant's or respondent's choosing who can accompany the complainant or respondent to any conduct-related meeting or proceeding. This person cannot be involved in the case either as a witness or a college employee who has been involved in the matter. Chapter 132T-105 WAC describes the college's student conduct procedures for handling Title IX complaints.

Assembly - Any overt activity engaged in by one or more persons, the object of which is to gain publicity, advocate a view, petition for a cause, or disseminate information to any person, persons, or group of persons.

Board of trustees - The five member governance board appointed by the governor of the state of Washington for Walla Walla Community College District 20.

Business day - A weekday, excluding weekends, college holidays, or other days the college is closed, most often used to represent a timeline of 10 days or less.

Calendar day - A calendar day includes weekdays and weekends, most often used to represent a timeline of more than 10 days.

College - This chapter is specific to Walla Walla Community College District 20.

College employee - Any person employed by the college or volunteering at the college performing assigned duties.

College facilities - Any and all real and personal property controlled, rented, leased, or operated by the college, including all buildings and appurtenances affixed thereon or attached thereto. College facilities extend to distance education classroom environments and agencies or institutions that have educational agreements with the college.

College premises - All campuses of the college, wherever located, and includes all land, buildings, facilities, vehicles, equipment, and other property owned, used, or controlled by the college including parking lots, adjacent streets, and sidewalks.

Complainant - A person who reports that a violation of the student code of conduct has occurred towards themselves, another person, a group of people, or college property. In matters of sexual misconduct outside of the Title IX definition, a complainant is an alleged victim of sexual misconduct. Chapter 132T-105 WAC describes the college's student conduct procedures for handling Title IX complaints.

Complaint - A description of facts that allege a violation of the student code of conduct or other college policy.

Conduct review officer - The vice president of student services or designee responsible for receiving and for reviewing or referring appeals of student disciplinary actions in accordance with the procedures of this code.

Controlled substance - Any drug or substance as defined in chapter 69.50 RCW as now law or hereafter amended.

Disciplinary action - The process by which the student conduct officer imposes discipline against a student for a violation of the student code of conduct. Disciplinary action does not include instructional decisions and actions that are under the authority of faculty members and instructional administrators, such as determination of academic credit and grading. These determinations and any review or appeal of these are outside the scope of this chapter.

Disciplinary appeal - The process by which an aggrieved student can appeal the discipline imposed by the student conduct officer. Disciplinary appeals from a suspension in excess of 10 business days or an expulsion or dissolution of a student organization are heard by the student conduct board. Appeals of all other appealable disciplinary action shall be reviewed by the conduct review officer through brief adjudicative proceedings.

Policy - The written regulations of the college as found in, but not limited to, the student code of conduct and any other official regulation written or in electronic form.

Preponderance of the evidence - The standard of proof used with all student disciplinary matters at the college that are within the jurisdiction of the student code of conduct, which means that the amount of evidence must be at 51 percent or more likely than not before a student is found responsible for a violation.

President - The chief executive officer of the college appointed by the board of trustees or, in such president's absence, the acting president or designee. The president is authorized to delegate any of their responsibilities and reassign any and all duties and responsibilities as set forth in this chapter as may be reasonably necessary.

RCW - Revised Code of Washington can be accessed at http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/.

Respondent - The student(s) or student organization alleged to have violated a college policy, including this student code of conduct, and against whom disciplinary action is being taken or initiated. Chapter 132T-105 WAC describes the college's student conduct procedures for handling Title IX complaints.

Rules of the student code of conduct - The rules contained herein as now exist or which may be hereafter amended.

Service or filing - The process by which a document is officially delivered to a party. Service or filing is deemed complete and computation of time for deadlines begins upon personal delivery of the document or upon the date the document is electronically mailed and/or deposited into the mail. Documents required to be filed with the college such as requests for appeals, are deemed filed upon actual receipt by the office as designated herein during office hours.

Student - Any person taking courses at or through the college, whether on a full-time or part-time basis, and whether such courses are credit courses, noncredit courses, online courses, continuing education courses, contract courses, or otherwise. Persons are considered students for purposes of this chapter who withdraw after allegedly violating the student code of conduct, including individuals who are:

(a) Not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the college; or

(b) Who have been notified of their acceptance for admission.

Student conduct board - Also referred to as the SCB is a three member panel which presides over cases that could result in a sanction of expulsion, suspension for more than 10 business days, revocation of a degree, and/or loss of recognition of a student organization using the full adjudicative process pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 34.05 RCW.

Student conduct meeting - The conduct meeting with the student conduct officer using the brief adjudicative process to determine responsibility for violations of the student code of conduct.

Student conduct officer - Referred to as SCO, is the person designated by the college president to be responsible for the administration of the student code of conduct or designee. The SCO is authorized to delegate their responsibilities as may be reasonably necessary.

Student organization - Any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for college recognition, such as clubs and associations, and are recognized by the college as such.

Visitors - Guests, applicants, contractors, vendors, advisory board members, foundation board members, and members of the public on college premises.

WAC - The Washington Administrative Code can be accessed at http://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/.

The board of trustees, acting pursuant to RCW 28B.50.140(13), delegates to the president of the college the authority to administer disciplinary action. Administration of the disciplinary procedures may be delegated by the president. Unless otherwise specified, the student conduct officer or designee shall serve as the principal investigator and administrator for alleged violations of this code.

Refer to chapter 132T-105 WAC for Title IX violations jurisdiction as it applies to student conduct procedures related to Title IX.

(1) The student code of conduct shall apply to student conduct that occurs on college premises; at or in connection with college-sponsored activities; or to off-campus conduct that in the judgment of the college adversely affects the college community or the pursuit of its objectives.

(2) Jurisdiction extends to, but is not limited to, locations in which students are engaged in official college activities including, but not limited to, foreign or domestic travel, activities funded by the associated students, athletic events, training internships, cooperative and distance education, online education, practicums, supervised work experiences, or any other college-sanctioned social or club activities. Students are responsible for their conduct from notification of acceptance at the college through the actual receipt of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment. These standards shall apply to a student's conduct even if the student withdraws from the college while a disciplinary matter is pending. The student conduct officer has sole discretion, on a case-by-case basis, to determine whether the student code of conduct will be applied to conduct that occurs off campus.

(3) In addition to initiating disciplinary proceedings for violation of the student code of conduct, the college may refer any violations of federal, state, or local laws to civil and criminal authorities for disposition. The college may continue with student disciplinary proceedings regardless of whether the underlying conduct is subject to civil proceedings or criminal prosecution.

The award of a degree or certificate is conditioned upon the student's good standing in the college and satisfaction of all program requirements. Good standing means the student has resolved any acts of academic or behavioral misconduct and has complied with all sanctions imposed because of any misconduct. The college shall deny award of a degree or certificate if the student is dismissed from the college based on their misconduct. The college may withhold awarding a degree or certificate until the completion of the process set forth in the student code of conduct, including the completion of all sanctions imposed, if any.

The college will have a student conduct board (SCB) composed of three members who shall be vice presidents, deans, or directors as designated by the college and trained to conduct the full adjudicative process. The SCB will serve as a standing committee until a final decision is made regarding the student conduct matter for which it was convened. Any SCB member who has a personal relationship with either party or any personal or other interest which would prevent a fair and impartial review and decision, will be recused from the proceedings. One member, acting as the chair, will preside at the disciplinary hearing and will provide administrative oversight throughout the hearing process. Any three members constitute a quorum of the student conduct board and may act accordingly. The college may retain an advisor to the SCB, including an assistant attorney general. The conduct review officer (CRO) will convene the members of the SCB when necessary to adjudicate student code of conduct decisions. All SCB members will receive annual training in investigating and adjudicating student conduct matters in a manner that protects the safety and due process rights of the parties.

All student conduct decisions in this chapter are made using the preponderance of evidence standard of proof. These decisions become final after 21 calendar days from the date of notification to the student unless a written appeal is filed prior to that final date. Decisions to document a complaint without a sanction are not eligible for appeal. All decision notifications by the student conduct officer, student conduct board, or president will include a statement of the decision, a summary of relevant facts upon which the decision was based, and the procedures for appealing that decision if applicable. The notification will be personally delivered, sent electronically to the student's college email address, or by mail to the student's most recent address on file with the college within 20 calendar days of the student conduct proceeding. Students are responsible for promptly notifying the college of changes to their mailing address.

(1) Decisions of findings or sanctions by the student conduct officer (SCO) which do not include sanctions of expulsion, suspension for more than 10 business days, withholding or revocation of a degree, or loss of recognition of a student organization may be appealed to the conduct review officer (CRO).

(2) Decisions of findings on all violations of the student code of conduct which include sanctions of expulsion, suspension for more than 10 business days, revocation of a degree, or loss of recognition of a student organization can be appealed to the student conduct board (SCB).

(3) Decisions of findings or sanctions from the CRO or SCB may be appealed to the college president. Decisions made by the college president are final.

The attendance of a student at the college is a voluntary entrance into the academic community. By such entrance, the student assumes obligations of performance and behavior reasonably imposed by the college relevant to its lawful missions, processes, and functions. It is the college's expectation that students will:

(1) Conduct themselves in a responsible manner;

(2) Comply with rules and regulations of the college and its departments;

(3) Respect the rights, privileges, and property of other members of the academic community;

(4) Maintain a high standard of integrity and honesty; and

(5) Not interfere with legitimate college business appropriate to the pursuit of educational goals.

A student or student organization is responsible for the conduct of their invited guests, advisors, and representatives on or in college-owned or controlled property and at activities sponsored by the college or sponsored by any recognized college organization. All student clubs or organizations shall comply with the student code of conduct. When a member or members of a student club or organization violate the student code of conduct, the members and/or individual member may be subject to appropriate sanctions authorized by this student code of conduct. Any student or student organization that, either as a principal or participator or by aiding or abetting, commits or attempts to commit or who incites, encourages, or assists another person to commit a violation of any of the prohibited conduct, rules and regulations, or college policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

Physical and/or verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, online harassment, coercion, bullying, cyberbullying, retaliation, stalking, cyberstalking, and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person or which has the purpose or effect of creating a hostile or intimidating environment.

Abuse of the student conduct process which includes, but is not limited to:

(1) Failure to comply with any notice from a college employee to appear for a meeting or hearing as part of the student conduct process.

(2) Willful falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information during the conduct process.

(3) Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a college conduct proceeding.

(4) Filing fraudulent charges or initiating a college conduct proceeding in bad faith.

(5) Attempting to discourage an individual's proper participation in, or use of, the student conduct process.

(6) Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of the college conduct process prior to, during, and/or after any college conduct proceeding.

(7) Harassment (written, verbal, or physical), retaliation, and/or intimidation of any person or persons involved in the conduct process prior to, during, or after any college conduct proceeding.

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

Walla Walla Community College District 20 has adopted administrative policy 6010 - academic integrity and administrative procedure 6010 - academic integrity to enforce the institution's academic integrity rules. Please refer to them for additional information on the college's processes for handling academic integrity violations.

Any acts of dishonesty that include, but are not limited to:

(1) Forgery, alteration, submission of falsified documents, or misuse of any college document, record, or instrument of identification;

(2) Tampering with an election conducted by or for college students; or

(3) Furnishing false information, or failing to furnish correct information, in response to the request or requirement of a college employee.

Conduct that is disorderly, lewd, indecent, or assisting or encouraging another person to obstruct or disrupt, not otherwise protected by law, that interferes with, impedes, or otherwise unreasonably hinders:

(1) Instruction, research, administration, disciplinary proceeding, or other college activities, including the obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular movement on college property or at a college activity; or

(2) Any activity that is authorized to occur on college property, whether or not actually conducted or sponsored by the college.

Unwanted touching, physical abuse, verbal (written or oral) abuse, threat(s), intimidation, harassment, bullying, or other conduct which harms, threatens, or is reasonably perceived as threatening the health or safety of another person or another person's property. For purposes of this code, bullying is defined as repeated or aggressive unwanted behavior, not otherwise protected by law that intentionally humiliates, harms, or intimidates the victim.

Cyberstalking, cyberbullying, or online harassment. Use of electronic communications including, but not limited to, electronic mail, instant messaging, electronic bulletin boards, and social media sites, to harass, abuse, bully, or engage in other conduct which harms, threatens, or is reasonably perceived as threatening the health or safety of another person. Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to, unauthorized monitoring of another's email communications directly or through spyware, sending threatening emails, disrupting electronic communications with spam or by sending a computer virus, sending false messages to third parties using another's email identity, nonconsensual recording of sexual activity, and nonconsensual distribution of a recording of sexual activity.

Damage to, theft, misappropriation of, unauthorized use or possession of, vandalism, or other nonaccidental damaging or destruction of college property or the property of another person. Property for purposes of this section includes computer passwords, access codes, identification cards, personal financial account numbers, other confidential personal information, intellectual property, and college trademarks.

Failure to comply with the directive of a college employee who is acting in the legitimate performance of their duties, including conduct directives contained in a program student handbook, and failure to properly identify oneself to such a college employee when requested to do so.

A weapons violation includes the possession, exhibiting, displaying, or use of any firearm, explosive, dangerous chemical, knife, or other instrument capable of inflicting serious bodily harm in circumstances that are reasonably perceived as causing alarm for the safety of any person. The term weapons violation includes any threat to use a weapon to harm any person and the use of any fake weapon or replica to cause the apprehension of harm. The term further includes a possession on college premises of any firearm or other dangerous weapon in violation of public law or college policy but does not include the lawful possession of any personal protection spray device authorized under RCW 9.91.160. Examples include, but are not limited to:

(1) Firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or other dangerous weapons or instrumentalities are not permitted on campus premises, except for authorized campus purposes, or unless prior written approval has been obtained from the college president or designee. Exceptions include:

(a) Commissioned law enforcement personnel or legally authorized military personnel acting within the scope of their employment;

(b) Private contracted security with expressed prior written permission from the college president or designee to possess firearms or dangerous weapons while employed by the college or for a permitted or contracted event;

(c) Students with legally issued concealed weapons permits may store their weapons in vehicles parked in accordance with RCW 9.41.050 on campus provided the vehicle is locked and the weapon is concealed from view;

(d) Knives, tools, and other objects that are being used for a legitimate educational purpose as part of a college instructional program; or

(e) The president or designee may authorize permission of a weapon on campus upon a determination that the weapon is reasonably related to a legitimate pedagogical purpose. Such permission shall be in writing and shall be subject to such terms or conditions incorporated in the written permission.

(2) Firearms include, but are not limited to, what are commonly known as air guns or rifles, BB guns, and pellet guns, and any instrument used in the propulsion of shot, shell, bullets, or other harmful objects by:

(a) The action of gunpowder or other explosives;

(b) The action of compressed air; or

(c) The power of springs or other forms of propulsion.

(3) The exhibition or display of a replica or a dangerous weapon prohibited under this subsection is also prohibited if done in a manner, and at a time or place that either manifests an intent to intimidate another or that warrants alarm for the safety of other persons.

Walla Walla Community College District 20 complies with RCW 28B.10.900 through 28B.10.903 and prohibits any hazing activities on or off the college premises. Hazing includes, but is not limited to, any individual or group initiation into a student organization or any pastime or amusement engaged in by said individual or with respect to such an organization that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger, physical harm, or serious mental or emotional harm, to any student, employee, or visitor of the college. Refer to RCW 28B.10.900 through 28B.10.903 for additional information on definitions of hazing and penalties under Washington state law.

(1) Alcohol. The use, possession, delivery, sale of any alcoholic beverage except as permitted by law and applicable college policies or being observably under the influence of any alcoholic beverage.

(2) Marijuana. The use, possession, delivery, or sale of marijuana or the psychoactive compounds found in marijuana intended for human consumption, regardless of form, or being observably under the influence of marijuana or the psychoactive compounds found in marijuana. While state law permits the recreational use of marijuana, federal law prohibits such use on college premises or in connection with college activities.

(3) Drugs. The use, possession, delivery, sale, or being observably under the influence of any legend drug, including anabolic steroids, androgens, or human growth hormones as defined in chapter 69.41 RCW, or any other controlled substance under chapter 69.50 RCW, except as prescribed for a student's use by a licensed practitioner.

(4) Tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and related products. The use of tobacco, electronic cigarettes, smoking devices, and related products on or in any college facility is prohibited. Related products include, but are not limited to, cigarettes, pipes, bidi, clove cigarettes, water pipes, hookahs, smokeless tobacco, vaporizers, and snuff. Exceptions include the person being in a designated smoking area or in a closed private vehicle when in compliance with applicable Washington state laws and college policies.

Conduct which harms or adversely affects any member of the college community or visitor because of the person's race; color; national origin; sensory, mental, or physical disability; use of a service animal; gender, including pregnancy; marital status; age; religion; creed; sexual orientation; gender identity; veteran's status; or any other legally protected classification as defined by the college's policies or local, state, or federal laws and regulations.

The term sexual misconduct includes sexual harassment, sexual intimidation, and sexual violence. For a description of prohibited sexual conduct under Title IX refer to WAC 132T-105-020.

(1) Sexual harassment. Sexual harassment outside of the Title IX definition or is a one-time offense is included in this chapter. For this chapter, the term sexual harassment means:

(a) Unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that is sufficiently serious as to deny or limit, or that does deny or limit based on sex, the ability of a student to participate in or benefit from the college's educational or social programs;

(b) Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature or that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for students, employees, or visitors; and/or

(c) Alters the terms or conditions of employment for a college employee.

(2) Sexual intimidation. The term sexual intimidation outside of the Title IX definition means threatening or emotionally distressing conduct based on sex and including, but not limited to, nonconsensual recording of sexual activity or the distribution of such recording.

(3) Sexual violence. Sexual violence outside of the Title IX definition is a type of sexual discrimination and sexual harassment. Nonconsensual sexual intercourse, nonconsensual sexual contact, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and stalking are all types of sexual violence.

(a) Nonconsensual sexual intercourse outside of the Title IX definition is any sexual intercourse (anal, oral, or vaginal), however slight, that is without consent and/or by force by a person upon another person or with any object. Sexual intercourse includes anal or vaginal penetration by a penis, tongue, finger, or object, or oral copulation by mouth to genital contact or genital to mouth contact.

(b) Nonconsensual sexual contact outside of the Title IX definition is any intentional sexual touching, however slight, by a person upon another person or with an object that is without consent and/or by force. Sexual touching includes any bodily contact with the breasts, groin, mouth, other bodily orifice of another individual, or any other bodily contact in a sexual manner.

(c) Domestic violence outside of the Title IX definition includes asserted violent misdemeanor and felony offenses committed by the victim's current or former spouse, current or former cohabitant, person similarly situated under the domestic or family violence laws of the state of Washington, or anyone else protected under the domestic or family violence laws of the state of Washington, RCW 26.50.010.

(d) Intimate partner violence outside of the Title IX definition is violence by a person who is or has been in a dating, romantic, or intimate relationship with the victim.

(e) Stalking outside of the Title IX definition is intentional and repeated harassment or following another person which places that person in reasonable fear that the perpetrator intends to injure, intimidate, or harass that person. Stalking also includes instances where the perpetrator knows or reasonably should know that the person is frightened, intimidated, or harassed even if the perpetrator lacks such intent.

Unwelcome and offensive conduct, including verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct, that is directed at a person because of such person's protected status and that is sufficiently serious as to deny or limit, or that does deny or limit, the ability of a student to participate in or benefit from the college's educational or social programs; that changes the terms or conditions of employment for a college employee; or that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for students, employees, or visitors.

Protected status includes a person's race; color; national origin; sensory, mental, or physical disability; use of a service animal; gender, including pregnancy; marital status; age; religion; creed; sexual orientation; gender identity; veteran's status; or any other legally protected classification. Harassing conduct may include, but is not limited to, physical conduct, verbal, written, social media, and electronic communications.

Harming, threatening, intimidating, coercing, or taking adverse action of any kind against a person or their property as reprisal because such person reported an alleged violation of this code or college policy, provided information about an alleged violation, or participated as a witness or in any other capacity in a college investigation or disciplinary proceeding. Retaliation may include adverse educational or employment consequences, ridicule, intimidation, bullying, or ostracism.

Theft or other misuse of computer time or other electronic information resources of the college. Such misuse includes, but is not limited to:

(1) Unauthorized use of such resources or opening of a file, message, or other item;

(2) Unauthorized duplication, transfer, or distribution of a computer program, file, message, or other item;

(3) Unauthorized use or distribution of someone else's password or other identification;

(4) Use of such time or resources to interfere with someone else's work;

(5) Use of such time or resources to send, display, or print an obscene or abusive message, text, or image;

(6) Use of such time or resources to interfere with normal operation of the college's computing system or other electronic information resources;

(7) Use of such time or resources in violation of applicable copyright or other laws;

(8) Adding to or altering the infrastructure of the college's electronic information resources without authorization; or

(9) Failure to comply with the college's electronic use policy.

Unauthorized possession, duplication, or other use of a key, keycard, or other restricted means of access to college property, or unauthorized entry onto or into college property.

Nonaccidental conduct that interferes with or compromises any college policy, equipment, or procedure relating to the safety and security of the campus community or visitors, including tampering with fire safety equipment and triggering false alarms or other emergency response systems.

Violation of any federal, state, or local law, rule, or regulation or college rules or policies, including college traffic and parking rules.

The breach of any generally recognized and published code of ethics or standards of professional practice that governs the conduct of a particular profession for which the student is taking a course or is pursuing as an educational goal or program.

As an agency of the state of Washington, the college's student conduct officer (SCO), student conduct board (SCB), conduct review officer (CRO), or president may be advised or represented by an assistant attorney general in any student code of conduct proceeding.

College disciplinary proceedings may be used to determine a student's responsibility for conduct that potentially violates criminal law and this student code of conduct (that is, if both alleged violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this student code of conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under this student code of conduct will not be subject to change because criminal charges arising out of the same facts that gave rise to violation of college rules were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant. In addition to initiating discipline proceedings for violation of the student code of conduct, the college may refer any violations of federal, state, or local laws to civil and criminal authorities for disposition. The college reserves the right to pursue student disciplinary proceedings regardless of whether the underlying conduct is subject to civil or criminal prosecution.

(1) Initiation of disciplinary action. A request for disciplinary action for violation(s) of the student code of conduct must be made to the student conduct officer (SCO) as soon as possible following the violation. Conduct proceedings may be initiated when the SCO receives any direct or indirect report of conduct that may violate this code, which includes, but is not limited to, a police report, an incident report, a witness statement, other documentation, or a verbal or written report from a complainant, witness, or other third party.

(a) The college may initiate disciplinary action under the student code of conduct regardless of whether or not the incident in question is the subject of criminal or civil proceedings.

(b) Any member of the college's administration, faculty, staff, or any student or nonstudent may make a request for disciplinary action, and it must be a good faith claim.

(c) Formal rules of evidence, such as are applied in criminal or civil court, are not used in conduct proceedings. Relevant evidence, including hearsay, is admissible if it is the type of evidence that reasonable persons would rely upon in the conduct of their affairs. Unduly repetitious or irrelevant evidence may be excluded.

(2) The student conduct officer (SCO), student conduct board (SCB), or college president will determine the admissibility of evidence and may seek clarification from witnesses as needed.

(a) If the complaint indicates that the matter involves sexual misconduct as defined by chapter 132T-105 WAC, the SCO will forward the complaint to the Title IX coordinator for review in accordance with chapter 132T-105 WAC.

(b) The SCO or designee will conduct an initial investigation of a complaint to determine whether it alleges conduct that may be prohibited by the student code of conduct. If it is determined through the initial investigation that the report has merit, the SCO will investigate to determine responsibility.

(c) Except in cases of sexual assault or sexual violence outside of the Title IX definition, the parties may elect to mediate the dispute, which shall be facilitated by the SCO or delegate.

(d) If the SCO has a conflict of interest or is the subject of a complaint by the student, the president or designee shall, upon request and at their discretion, designate another person to fulfill any such disciplinary responsibilities relative to the request for disciplinary action.

(3) Notification requirements.

(a) If it is determined through the initial investigation that an alleged violation of the student code of conduct might have occurred and which is not eligible for referral to the Title IX coordinator, the SCO will provide the following written notification:

(i) That a report has been submitted alleging conduct which violates the student code of conduct and that a conduct investigation has been initiated to determine responsibility;

(ii) The specific sections of the student code of conduct which are alleged to have been violated;

(iii) That the student may either accept responsibility for the alleged violations or request a conduct meeting with the SCO to present evidence to refute the report;

(iv) That the student may provide evidence such as names and contact information of witnesses to aid the conduct investigation;

(v) The possible sanction outcomes and that the actual sanctions will depend on the determination of responsibility pending the results of the investigation; and

(vi) That if the student fails to participate in any stage of the conduct proceedings or to request a conduct meeting within 15 calendar days from the date of the notice, the college may move forward with the conduct proceeding without their participation.

(b) If the student requests a conduct meeting within 15 calendar days of the notice, the student will be provided a written notice to appear for a conduct meeting. The notice to appear will be personally delivered, sent electronically to the student's college email address, or sent by mail to the most recent address in the student's record on file with the college, not later than 15 calendar days after the request for a conduct meeting. The notice will not be ineffective if presented later due to the student's absence. Such notice will:

(i) Set forth the specific provisions of the student code of conduct and the specific acts which are alleged to be violations, as well as the date(s) of the violation(s), and a description of evidence, if any, of the violation.

(ii) Notify the student of the SCO's investigation and possible sanctions, if any.

(iii) Specify the time, date, and location where the student is required to meet with the SCO. The meeting will be scheduled no earlier than three business days, but within 30 calendar days of the date on the notice that was sent to the student to appear before the SCO. The SCO may modify the time, date, and location of the meeting, either at the student's or college's request, for reasonable cause.

(iv) Inform the student that failure to attend the conduct meeting will not stop the disciplinary process and may result in a transcript/registration hold being placed on the student's account and disciplinary action(s).

(v) Inform the student that they may be accompanied at the meeting by an advisor at their expense. The advisor cannot be a college employee or witness. If the student or their advisor is found to have tampered with witnesses or evidence, or destroyed evidence, the student will be held accountable in the conduct process for their acts and those of their advisor.

(vi) Inform the student that they may present evidence to support their assertions during the meeting.

(4) Student conduct meeting - Brief adjudicative process will follow WAC 132T-100-230.

(a) During the student conduct meeting, the student will be informed of the following:

(i) The specific acts and the provision(s) of college policy that the student is alleged to have violated;

(ii) The disciplinary process;

(iii) The range of sanctions which might result from the disciplinary process and that the actual sanctions will depend on the findings of responsibility; and

(iv) The student's right to appeal.

(b) The student will have the opportunity to review and respond to the allegation(s) and evidence and provide the SCO with relevant information, evidence and/or witnesses to the alleged violation(s), and/or explain the circumstances surrounding the alleged violation(s).

(c) The advisor may assist the student during the conduct meeting; however, the student is responsible for presenting their own information and evidence. The advisor may only communicate with the student they are advising. Any disruptions or failure to follow the conduct process and/or directions of the SCO may result in the advisor being excused from the meeting.

(5) Decision by the SCO.

(a) After interviewing the student or students involved and/or other individuals as appropriate, and considering the evidence, the SCO may take any of the following actions:

(i) Determine that the student is not responsible for a violation of the student code of conduct and thereby terminate the student conduct process;

(ii) Determine that the student is responsible for a violation of the student code of conduct and impose disciplinary sanctions as provided herein; or

(iii) Determine that further inquiry is necessary and schedule another meeting for reasonable cause.

(b) Notification of the decision by the SCO will be issued pursuant to WAC 132T-100-070 within 30 calendar days of the final student conduct meeting. Due to federal privacy law, the college may not disclose to the complainant any sanctions imposed on the responding student unless the complainant was the alleged victim of a violent crime as defined under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232g; 34 C.F.R. Part 99) and chapter 132T-90 WAC Implementation of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or the responding student consents to such disclosure. A copy of the decision notification will be filed with the office of the SCO.

(c) Disciplinary action taken by the SCO is final unless the student exercises the right of appeal as provided herein.

The student may appeal a disciplinary action by filing a written notice of appeal with the conduct review officer (CRO) within 10 business days of service of the student conduct officer's decision. Failure to timely file a notice of appeal constitutes a waiver of the right to appeal, and the student conduct officer's decision shall be deemed final.

(1) The request for appeal must include a brief statement explaining the grounds for the appeal or why the student is seeking review. Disagreement with the finding and/or with the sanction(s) does not, by itself, represent grounds for appeal. Decisions may be appealed for one or more of the following:

(a) To determine whether there was a procedural error that substantially affected the outcome of the finding or sanctioning. Deviation from designated procedures is not a basis for sustaining an appeal unless significant prejudice results.

(b) To determine whether the sanction(s) imposed was appropriate and not excessively lenient or excessively severe for the violation of the student code of conduct for which the student was found responsible.

(c) To consider new information, sufficient to alter a decision, or other relevant facts not brought during fact finding, because such information and/or facts were not known, and the student bringing the appeal had no duty to discover or could not have reasonably discovered facts giving rise to the issues during investigation or fact-finding. The notice of appeal must include a brief statement explaining why the respondent is seeking review.

(2) The parties to an appeal shall be the respondent and the conduct review officer.

(3) A student who timely appeals a disciplinary action has a right to a prompt, fair, and impartial hearing as provided for in these procedures.

(4) On appeal, the college bears the burden of establishing the evidentiary facts underlying the imposition of a disciplinary sanction by a preponderance of the evidence.

(5) Imposition of disciplinary action for violation of the student code of conduct shall be stayed pending appeal unless respondent has been summarily suspended.

(6) The student conduct board shall hear appeals from:

(a) The imposition of disciplinary suspension in excess of 10 business days;

(b) Dismissal;

(c) Withholding or revocation of a degree or certificate; or

(d) Loss of recognition of a student organization.

(7) Student conduct appeals from the imposition of the following disciplinary sanctions shall be reviewed through a brief adjudicative proceeding:

(a) Suspensions of 10 business days or less;

(b) Disciplinary probation;

(c) Written reprimands; and

(d) Any conditions or terms imposed in conjunction with one of the foregoing disciplinary actions.

(8) Except as provided elsewhere in these rules, disciplinary warnings and dismissals of disciplinary actions are final actions and are not subject to appeal.

(9) Disciplinary decisions of the student conduct officer (SCO) may be appealed for review by the conduct review officer (CRO) using the brief adjudicative process. Disciplinary decisions of the CRO may be appealed for review by the college president using the brief adjudicative process.

(10) Appeals of disciplinary decisions of the SCO pursuant to sexual misconduct that is outside of the Title IX definition will be referred to the student conduct board (SCB) for a full adjudicative process in accordance with WAC 132T-100-240. The sanctions considered for appeal are:

(a) Suspension for more than 10 business days;

(b) Expulsion;

(c) Withholding or revocation of a degree or certificate; or

(d) Loss of recognition of a student organization.

(11) Disciplinary decisions by the SCB may be appealed for review by the college president using the brief adjudicative process. The college president's decision(s) is final.

(1) The brief adjudicative process is conducted in accordance with RCW 34.05.482 through 34.05.494.

(2) The student conduct officer (SCO) and conduct review officer (CRO) will use the brief adjudicative process to make decisions of findings of responsibility as provided in this code of conduct.

(3) The president will use the brief adjudicative process to review appeals of all disciplinary decisions made by the student conduct board (SCB).

(4) Within 20 calendar days of filing the appeal, the CRO or president, as applicable, shall review the record of the preceding conduct decision and all relevant information provided by the parties. Based on a preponderance of the evidence, the CRO or president shall decide to affirm, reverse, or modify the findings and/or sanctions. The CRO and president shall have the discretion to seek clarification from witnesses as needed.

(5) Notification of the decision will be issued pursuant to WAC 132T-100-070.

The student conduct board (SCB) will use the following full adjudicative process to determine responsibility for serious violations which include sanctions of suspension for more than 10 business days, expulsion, withholding or revocation of a degree or certificate, or loss of recognition of a student organization.

(1) The parties will be sent written notification of the SCB adjudication proceedings within 90 calendar days from the date of the filing of the appeal. The notification will contain the following:

(a) The time, date, and location of the hearing, which shall not be less than seven business days from the date of the notice of the hearing;

(b) The specific acts alleged and the provision(s) of college policy which those acts violated;

(c) The SCB procedures;

(d) The name and contact information for the SCB and their advisor, if any, representing the college. The notice will include the official title, work mailing address, and telephone number of each of these individuals;

(e) Unless otherwise ordered by the SCB chair, the name and mailing addresses of all parties to whom notice is being given and, if known, the names and addresses of their advisors; and

(f) A statement that if a party fails to attend or participate in a hearing or other stage of this adjudicative proceeding, they may be held in default in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW and/or the college may continue the student conduct process, including the hearing, despite the party's absence.

(2) The respondent and complainant have the right to be assisted by one advisor of their choice and at their own expense. The advisor must be someone who is not employed by the college. If the respondent chooses to have an attorney serve as their advisor, the student must provide notice to the SCB no less than five business days prior to the hearing. The SCB hearing may not be delayed due to the scheduling conflicts of an advisor and such requests will be subject to the discretion of the SCB chair. If the student or their advisor is found to have tampered with witnesses or evidence, or destroyed evidence, the student will be held accountable in the conduct process for their acts and those of their advisor. The respondent and/or complainant are responsible for presenting their own information, and therefore, during the hearing, advisors are not permitted to address the SCB, witnesses, the SCO, or any party or advisor invited by the parties to the hearing. An advisor may communicate with their advisee and recesses may be allowed for this purpose at the discretion of the SCB chair. The advisor may not disrupt or interfere with any aspect of the proceeding. The SCB chair shall have the right to impose reasonable conditions upon the participation of the advisor.

(3) The SCB and the parties will be provided reasonable access to the documentation and evidence which will be reviewed by the SCB, as well as the case file that will be retained by the SCO in accordance with applicable privacy laws.

(4) Any SCB member who has a personal relationship with either party or any personal or other interest which would prevent a fair and impartial review and decision will be recused from the proceedings. A party may make a written request to the SCB chair for the recusal of a SCB member no less than five business days prior to the hearing. The request must be for good cause, which must be shown by the party making the request. The SCB chair will consider the request and notify the student of their decision regarding the recusal prior to the hearing. If the SCB chair grants the recusal, a replacement for the recused SCB member will be made without unreasonable delay.

(5) The parties involved in the hearing will be required to submit their witness list and any evidence to be discussed at the hearing to the SCB chair no less than five business days prior to the hearing.

(a) Each party is allowed a maximum of three character witnesses to appear on their behalf.

(b) The parties must submit a witness list which contains a written statement from each witness that includes a brief description of the relevant information the witness will provide during the hearing.

(c) Witnesses not listed will not participate in the hearing.

(6) Discovery in the form of depositions, interrogatories, and medical examinations of parties are not permitted in student conduct adjudications. Other forms of discovery which ensure the prompt and thorough completion of the adjudication process may be permitted at the discretion of the SCB chair.

(7) Hearings will be closed to the public except if consented to by all parties and at the discretion of the SCB chair. Witnesses may be allowed in the hearing room only during the time in which they provide their statements to the SCB. The complainant and respondent, depending on their preference and subject to orders of a court of law, such as protection orders, may be present for and observe the entire hearing. At the discretion of the SCB chair, and where the rights of the parties will not be prejudiced, all or part of the hearing may be conducted by telephone, video conference, or other electronic means. Each party shall have the opportunity to hear and, if technically and economically feasible, to see the entire hearing while it is taking place. At all times, however, all parties, their advisors, the witnesses, and the public will be excluded during the deliberations of the student conduct board (SCB).

(8) The SCB chair will exercise control over the hearing to avoid needless consumption of time and to prevent the harassment or intimidation of witnesses. Any person, including the respondent and complainant, who disrupts a hearing or who fails to follow the directions of the SCB chair, may be excluded from the proceedings and may be subject to disciplinary action.

(9) Questions posed by any party to be answered by each other or by witnesses must be appropriate and respectful. The SCB chair may require any participant of the hearing to provide all questions in writing to the SCB chair. The SCB chair, if appropriate and at their sole discretion, will read the question to the individual to whom it is directed. Any question which the SCB chair has chosen not to read will be documented on record and kept within the case file. The SCB chair will decide matters related to the order of the proceedings.

(10) In order that a complete record of the proceeding can be made to include all evidence presented, hearings will be recorded or transcribed, except for the deliberations of the SCB. The record will be the property of the college.

(11) After weighing and considering the evidence, the SCB will decide by majority vote whether the respondent is responsible or not responsible for a violation of the student code of conduct. If there is a finding of responsibility for a violation, the SCB shall impose sanctions as set forth herein.

(12) The SCB's decision is made based on a preponderance of the evidence standard of proof, that is, whether it is more likely than not that the respondent violated the student code of conduct.

(13) The notice of decision of the SCB will be issued pursuant to WAC 132T-100-070. A copy of the SCB's decision will also be filed with the office of the SCO.

(14) Disciplinary action taken by the SCB is final unless the student exercises their right of appeal to the college president as provided herein.

The following disciplinary sanctions may be imposed upon students found to have violated the student code of conduct. If the respondent is found responsible for any violation, the student's past disciplinary record may be considered in determining an appropriate sanction.

(1) Sanctions.

(a) Disciplinary warning. A verbal statement to a student that there is a violation and that continued violation may be cause for further disciplinary action.

(b) Written reprimand. Notice in writing that the student has violated one or more terms of this code of conduct and that continuation of the same or similar behavior may result in more severe disciplinary action.

(c) Loss of privileges. Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time. Services and approval to be withdrawn may include, but are not limited to, intramural sports, information technology services, library and/or tutoring services, club activities, student leadership roles, college facility use and rental, and involvement in organizational activities.

(d) Loss of recognition. A student organization's recognition may be withheld permanently or for a specific period of time. Loss of recognition is defined as withholding college services or administrative approval from a student organization. Services and approval to be withdrawn may include, but are not limited to, funding, information technology services, college facility use, and involvement in organizational activities.

(e) Disciplinary probation. Formal action placing specific conditions and restrictions upon the student's continued attendance depending upon the seriousness of the violation and which may include a deferred disciplinary sanction. If the student subject to a deferred disciplinary sanction is found in violation of any college rule during the time of disciplinary probation, the deferred disciplinary sanction, which may include, but is not limited to, a suspension or a dismissal from the college, shall take effect immediately without further review. Any such sanction shall be in addition to any sanction or conditions arising from the new violation. Probation may be for a limited period of time or may be for the duration of the student's attendance at the college. Written notice of disciplinary probation will specify the period of probation and any condition(s) upon which their continued enrollment is contingent.

(i) Such conditions may include, but not be limited to, adherence to terms of a behavior contract or limiting the student's participation in extracurricular activities or access to specific areas of the college's facilities.

(ii) Disciplinary probation may be for a specified term or for a period which may extend to graduation or award of a degree or certificate or other termination of the student's enrollment in the college.

(f) Removal from class. Behavior which has been disruptive to a class to the extent that the continued presence of the student in that class will impair, interrupt, or interfere with the instructor's ability to deliver instruction or other students' abilities to obtain instruction, will result in a withdrawal from that class without a refund or grade penalty.

(g) Disciplinary suspension. Separation of the student from the college for a definite period of time, after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may apply. Students who are suspended may be denied access to all or any part of the campus or other facilities for the duration of the period of suspension. There will be no refund of tuition or fees for the quarter in which the action is taken.

(h) Expulsion. Permanent separation of the student from the college. Students who are expelled may be permanently denied access to all or any part of the campus or other facilities. The revocation of all rights and privileges of membership in the college community and exclusion from the campus and college-owned or controlled facilities without any possibility of return. There will be no refund of tuition or fees for the quarter in which the action is taken.

(i) Not in good standing. A student may be deemed not in good standing with the college. If so, the student shall be subject to the following restrictions:

(i) Ineligible to hold an office in any student organization recognized by the college or to hold any elected or appointed office of the college.

(ii) Ineligible to represent the college to anyone outside the college community in any way, including representing the college at any official function or any forms of intercollegiate competition or representation.

(j) Revocation of admission and/or degree or certificate. Admission to the college or a degree or certificate awarded from the college may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of college standards in obtaining admission or the degree or certificate, or for other serious violations committed by a student prior to the award of a degree or certificate.

(2) Disciplinary terms and conditions that may be imposed alone or in conjunction with the imposition of a disciplinary sanction include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) Restitution. A student may be required to make restitution for damage, loss, injury, or reasonable costs incurred by the college in pursuing an investigation or disciplinary proceeding. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement. Failure to make restitution within 30 calendar days or any period set by the SCO, CRO, SCB, or president will result in an administrative hold being placed on the student's registration, which will prevent future enrollment until the restitution is complete.

(b) Discretionary conditions. Work assignments, essays, service to the college, or other related discretionary assignments.

(c) Professional evaluation. Referral for drug, alcohol, psychological, or medical evaluation by an appropriately certified or licensed professional may be required. The student may choose the professional within the scope of practice and with the professional credentials as defined by the college. The student will sign all necessary releases to allow the college access to any such evaluation. The student's return to college may be conditioned upon compliance with recommendations set forth in such a professional evaluation. If the evaluation indicates that the student is not capable of functioning within the college community, the student will remain suspended until a future evaluation recommends that the student can reenter the college and comply with the rules of conduct.

(d) No contact order. An order that prohibits direct or indirect physical, verbal, written, and/or any other form of communication or contact with an individual or group. Direct and indirect contact includes, but is not limited to, phone calls, letters, going within sight of places of work or residence, email, social media, and modes of transportation.

A student who fails to complete a sanction within the specified time frame may be charged with the student code of conduct violation named failure to comply. It is the student's responsibility to notify the student conduct officer if there are mitigating circumstances that prevent the student from completing the sanction(s) by a specified time frame. The student conduct officer (SCO) may extend the deadline time, at the SCO's discretion. It is the student's responsibility to complete all sanctions within the specified time frame to avoid a hold and/or a charge of failure to comply.

A disciplinary hold will be placed on the records and registration of any student who:

(1) Fails to respond to a disciplinary notice by a judicial body. Any pending disciplinary matters must be resolved prior to reregistration or a student's graduation. No student will be allowed to register, graduate, obtain transcripts, or receive financial aid until the pending disciplinary case is completed;

(2) Is under an interim suspension from the college. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the pending disciplinary case is completed;

(3) Is under suspension from the college. The disciplinary hold will not be removed until the student's suspension status has expired and/or the requirements as set forth by the judicial/appellate body for readmission have been successfully met; or

(4) Is under expulsion from the college. The disciplinary hold will only be removed, upon written request, for a student to obtain their transcript.

(1) Interim measures may be taken pending an investigation or adjudication if there is cause to believe that a student or student organization poses an imminent risk of harm to anyone in the college community; to property; or if the misconduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive as to substantially disrupt or materially interfere with the college's operations and/or activities or with an individual's education/work activities. Interim measures may include counseling, extensions of time or other course related adjustments, modifications of class schedules, campus escort services, restrictions on contact between the parties, increased security and monitoring of certain areas of campus, restrictions on access to college-owned or operated property and/or events (notice of trespass), including classes, activities, and privileges, or any similar measures while the conduct process is pending.

(2) The student must adhere to the conditions of the interim restriction. If an interim restriction includes campus wide restricted access, the SCO may provide written permission for the student to enter campus for specific purposes such as meeting with the SCO or designee, faculty, staff, witnesses to prepare for an appeal, or to participate in the student conduct process.

(3) Notice of interim measure. The student will be provided written notice of the interim measure(s), stating:

(a) The time, date, place, and nature of the circumstances which created the need for interim measures.

(b) A description of any relevant evidence.

(c) The interim measure.

(d) The possible sanctions that could result from violation of the interim measure including arrest for criminal trespass if the student has been trespassed from campus.

(e) The student's right to either accept the interim measure or submit a written appeal of the interim measure within three business days to the conduct review officer (CRO). An appeal is waived if not submitted within the prescribed time. If the student appeals within the time frame, the interim measure shall remain in place during the appeal process. The CRO will provide written notification to the student of the decision to either maintain or discontinue the interim measure within five business days of receipt of the appeal.

(f) If the student has been trespassed from the campus, a notice against trespass shall be included that warns the student that their privilege to enter or remain on college premises has been withdrawn, that they shall be considered trespassing and subject to arrest for criminal trespass if they enter the college campus other than to meet with the SCO as arranged by an appointment, or to attend a disciplinary hearing. The interim measure shall not replace the regular discipline process which shall proceed as quickly as feasible considering the interim restriction.

Summary suspension is a temporary exclusion from specified college premises or denial of access to all activities or privileges for which a respondent might otherwise be eligible, while an investigation and/or formal disciplinary procedures are pending. The student conduct officer may impose a summary suspension if there is probable cause to believe that the respondent has violated any provision of the student code of conduct; presents an immediate danger to the health, safety, or welfare of members of the college community; or poses an ongoing threat of substantial disruption of, or interference with, the operations of the college.

(1) Notice. Any respondent who has been summarily suspended shall be served with oral or written notice of the summary suspension. If oral notice is given, a written notification shall be served on the respondent within two business days of the oral notice. The written notification shall be entitled notice of summary suspension and shall include the reasons for imposing the summary suspension, including a description of the conduct giving rise to the summary suspension and reference to the provisions of the student code of conduct or the law allegedly violated; the date, time, and location when the respondent must appear before the conduct review officer for a hearing on the summary suspension; and the conditions, if any, under which the respondent may physically access the campus or communicate with members of the campus community. If the respondent has been trespassed from the campus, a notice against trespass shall be included warning respondent that their privilege to enter into or remain on college premises has been withdrawn, and that the respondent shall be considered trespassing and subject to arrest for criminal trespass if they enter the college campus other than to meet with the student conduct officer, conduct review officer, or to attend a disciplinary hearing.

(2) Hearing. The conduct review officer (CRO) shall conduct a hearing on the summary suspension as soon as practicable after imposition of the summary suspension. During the summary suspension hearing, the issue before the conduct review officer is whether there is probable cause to believe that the summary suspension should be continued pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings and/or whether the summary suspension should be less restrictive in scope. The respondent shall be afforded an opportunity to explain why summary suspension should not be continued while disciplinary proceedings are pending or why the summary suspension should be less restrictive in scope. If the respondent fails to appear at the designated hearing time, the conduct review officer may order that the summary suspension remain in place pending the conclusion of the disciplinary proceedings. As soon as practicable following the hearing, the CRO shall issue a written decision which shall include a brief explanation for any decision continuing and/or modifying the summary suspension and notice of any right to appeal. To the extent permissible under applicable law, the CRO shall provide a copy of the decision to all persons or offices who may be bound or protected by it.

(3) Sexual misconduct. In cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct outside of the Title IX definition, the complainant shall be notified that a summary suspension has been imposed on the same day that the summary suspension notice is served on the respondent. The college will also provide the complainant with timely notice of any subsequent changes to the summary suspension order.

(1) Records of all disciplinary actions will become part of the student's disciplinary record and kept by the office of the SCO. Disciplinary records are education records as defined by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and shall be maintained and disclosed consistent with federal, state, and local laws; chapter 132T-90 WAC; and the college's educational records retention policies. All documentation of the student conduct proceedings will be preserved for at least seven years, except in disciplinary actions where no violation(s) of the student code of conduct was found. In such cases, only a record of the finding of no violation shall be maintained in the student's file or other college repository until:

(a) After the date of the student's graduation or award of a degree or certificate; or

(b) For one calendar year, whichever is shorter. All records of expulsion will be kept for 25 years from the date of the decision.

(2) The office of the SCO will keep accurate records of all disciplinary actions taken by that office. Such records will be placed in the student's disciplinary records. A student has a disciplinary record only after notification of a decision is made, and the student is found responsible for a violation of the student code of conduct. A case that is currently under investigation or is classified as documentation only is not a disciplinary record.

(3) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act provides that an educational institution may notify a student's parent or legal guardian if the student is under the age of 21 and has violated a federal, state, or local law involving the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance.