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. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus, and in the larger community. 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 assured to each student within the limitations of statutory law and college policy which are deemed necessary to achieve the educational goals of the college:

(1) Academic freedom.

(a) Students are assured the rights of free inquiry, expression, and assembly upon and within college facilities that are generally open and available to the public.

(b) Students are free to pursue appropriate educational objectives from among the college's curricula, programs, and services that are subject to the limitations of RCW 28B.50.090 (3)(b).

(c) The college protects students from academic evaluation that is arbitrary, prejudiced, or capricious. Students are responsible for meeting the standards of academic performance established by each instructor.

(d) Students have the right to a learning environment that is free of discrimination, inappropriate and disrespectful conduct, and all harassment including sexual harassment. Chapter 495A-115 WAC describes the college's student conduct procedures for handling Title IX complaints.

(2) Due process.

(a) The college assures the rights of students to be secure in their persons, quarters, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures.

(b) No disciplinary sanction may be imposed on any student without notice to the accused of the nature of the charges.

(c) A student accused of violating this student conduct code is entitled, upon request, to procedural due process as set forth in this chapter.