Student Handbook

Academic and Computer Integrity Policies

College Expectations of the Student

Honor Code

Wytheville Community College will not tolerate any form of dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, knowingly furnishing false information to the college, forgery, or alteration of documents or instruments of identification with intent to defraud. All students are expected to adhere to the Honor Code and may be required to sign a pledge on their work, such as: “Pledge: On my honor, I have neither given nor received aid on this assignment.”

Academic Integrity

In order to avoid plagiarism, a student should use his/her own ideas, words, programs, etc. When students use someone else’s material, they must give credit to the author/artist/originator. There are many ways to give proper credit. Students may give credit in the text of the paper, or in a footnote, endnote, or parenthetical citation. Students should check with their instructors as to the method that they prefer.

When it is clearly established that academic integrity has been breached, the following protocol will serve as guidelines for disciplinary action unless otherwise specified in the course syllabus:

1. The first offense will result in the student receiving an “F” on the assignment.
2. A second offense will result in an “F” for the course.
3. A third offense will result in Academic Suspension from the college for a minimum of one semester. Readmission will be considered on an individual basis.

Copyright Statement

It is illegal to save, duplicate, or distribute copyrighted materials. Copyright applies to all created works, including audio, texts, and videos. Content authors and creators keep all rights to their works. Within limits, professors may share copyrighted instructional content with students. A Fair Use exemption to the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the U.S. Code) lets faculty hand out or post links to material for class use only. Learners have a right and responsibility to use these educational resources. Further circulation is not allowed. Enrolled students can only access and use copyrighted content to meet course goals. Sharing class materials breaks copyright law.

Classroom Protocol

In the event a faculty member is late for class, students should wait fifteen minutes, make an attendance list with the signature of all students present, and leave the attendance list in the Office of the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development. Students will be notified by WCC email in the event of a cancellation.

Use of any tobacco products are not permitted in classrooms at any time. It is at the instructor’s discretion to allow food, beverage or electronic devices. For lengthy classes, faculty members usually provide a break.

Although there is no specific dress code, all students are expected to dress appropriately for class. As a safety regulation, shoes must be worn at all times.

Students are expected to observe the attendance and lateness policies, which are published in course outlines, and which are set by individual faculty members.

Children or pets of any kind are not allowed in the classroom. Service animals are permitted with proper authorization.

Acceptable Use Policy for All College Computers

Computer Ethics Guidelines

Thousands of users share VCCNet computing resources. Everyone must use these resources responsibly since misuse by even a few individuals has the potential to disrupt VCCS business or the work of others. Students are expected exercise ethical behavior when using VCCNet resources.

State Law (Article 7.1 of Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia) classifies damage to computer hardware or software (18.2-152.4), unauthorized examination (18.2-152.5), or unauthorized use (18.2-152.6) of computer systems as  misdemeanor crimes. Computer fraud (18.2-152.3) and use of a computer as an instrument of forgery (18.2-152.14) can be felonies. The VCCS’s internal procedures for enforcement of its policy are independent of possible prosecution under the law.

VCCNet resources include mainframe computers, minicomputers, microcomputers, networks, software, data, facilities and related supplies.

Guidelines

The following guidelines shall govern the use of all VCCNet resources:

A student must use only those computer resources that the student has the authority to use. The student must not provide false or misleading information to gain access to computing resources. The VCCS may regard these actions as criminal acts and may treat them accordingly. The student must not use the VCCNet resources to gain unauthorized access to computing resources of other institutions, organizations or individuals.

A student must not authorize anyone to use his/her computer accounts for any reason. The student is responsible for all use of his/her accounts. They must take all reasonable precautions, including password maintenance, updated multi-factor authentication methods, and file protection measures, to prevent use of his/her account by unauthorized persons. Students must not, for example, share their passwords with anyone.

The student must use his/her computer resources only for authorized purposes. Students or staff, for example, may not use their accounts for private consulting.  A student must not use his/her computer resources for unlawful purposes, such as the installation of fraudulently or illegally obtained software.

Use of external networks connected to the VCCNet must comply with the policies of acceptable use promulgated by the organizations responsible for those networks.

Other than material known to be in the public domain, the student must not access, alter, copy, move or remove information, proprietary software or other files (including programs, members of subroutine libraries, data and electronic mail) without prior authorization. The college or VCCNet data trustee, security officer, appropriate college official or other responsible party may grant authorization to use electronically stored materials in accordance with policies, copyright laws and procedures. A student must not copy, distribute, or disclose third party proprietary software without prior authorization from the licenser. A student must not install proprietary software on systems not properly licensed for its use.

A student must not use any computing facility irresponsibly or needlessly affect the work of others. This includes transmitting or making accessible offensive, annoying or harassing material. This includes intentionally, recklessly, or negligently damaging systems, intentionally damaging or violating the privacy of information not belonging to the student. This includes the intentional misuse of resources or allowing misuse of resources by others. This includes loading software or data from untrustworthy sources, such as free-ware, onto official systems without prior approval.

A student should report any violation of these regulations by another individual and any information relating to a flaw or bypass of computing facility security to the Information Security Officer.

Enforcement Procedure

Faculty, staff and students at the college or VCCNet facility should report violations of information security policies to the local Chief Information Officer (CIO). At WCC, this is the Director of Technology.

If the accused is an employee, the CIO will collect the facts of the case and identify the offender. If, in the opinion of the CIO, the alleged violation is of a serious nature, the CIO will notify the offender’s supervisor. The supervisor, in conjunction with the college or System Office Human Resources Office and the CIO, will determine the appropriate disciplinary action. Disciplinary actions may include but are not limited to:

• Temporary restriction of the violator’s computing resource access for a fixed period of time, generally not more than six months.
• Restitution for damages, materials consumed, machine time, etc., on an actual cost basis. Such restitution may include the costs associated with determining the case facts.
• Disciplinary action for faculty and classified staff in accordance with the guidelines established in the State Standards of Conduct Policy.

In the event that a student is the offender, the accuser should notify the Vice President of Academics. The Vice President, in cooperation with the CIO, will determine the appropriate disciplinary actions which may include but are not limited to:

• Temporary restriction of the violator’s computing resource access for a fixed period of time, generally not more than six months.
• Restitution for damages, materials consumed, machine time, etc. on an actual cost basis. Such restitution may include the costs associated with determining the case facts.
• Disciplinary action for student offenders shall be in accordance with the college student standards of conduct.

The college President will report any violations of state and federal law to the appropriate authorities. All formal disciplinary actions taken under this policy are grievable and the accused may pursue findings through the appropriate grievance procedure.

Academic Processes

Attendance Policy

Students are responsible for their own learning and are expected to attend class. Missing class compromises learning. If the number of student absences EXCEEDS twice the number of weekly meetings of the class, the student may be withdrawn from the course.

Regular attendance in classes is required for students to get the greatest value from their educational experiences. When absence from a class is necessary, the student should tell the instructor ahead of time, whenever possible. Within the expressed policy established by the faculty member, a student should make up all work missed during an absence. If the student does not do so, his/her grade in the course will consequently be lower than if satisfactory work had been turned in.

The college also has adopted an optional Instructor- Initiated Withdrawal Policy which permits an instructor to withdraw, without academic penalty, any student with excessive absences as defined by that policy. Faculty choosing this option for their course(s) must inform students enrolled in the course(s) by including information in the course outline/syllabus at the beginning of the semester.

Grading System

Grade Point Average

The Grade Point Average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned in courses by the total number of credits attempted. Courses which do not generate grade points are not included in credits  attempted.

Semester Grade Point Average: Semester GPA is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned in courses attempted for the semester by the total number of credits attempted.

Cumulative Grade Point Average: Cumulative GPA, which includes all courses attempted, is computed each semester and is maintained on a continuing basis as a record of the student’s academic standing. When students repeat a course, only the highest grade earned is counted in the computation of the cumulative GPA.

Curriculum Grade Point Average: A curriculum GPA, which includes only those courses applicable to the student’s curriculum, is computed in order to ensure that the student satisfies the graduation requirement for that curriculum. When students repeat a course, only the highest grade earned is counted in the computation of the curriculum GPA.

Pass/Unsatisfactory Grading Option

Pass/Unsatisfactory grading options are available through “P” and “U” grades. Permission of the academic dean is required for utilizing Pass/Unsatisfactory options. Pass grades carry academic credit but neither “P” nor “U” grades are used when calculating the grade point average (GPA).

A maximum of seven (7) semester credit hours for courses for which the “P” grade has been awarded may be applied toward completion of a degree, diploma, or certificate. This maximum may be extended to fifteen (15) semester credit hours in experiential learning programs approved by the Chancellor.

Grade Reports

Final grade reports will not be mailed.  Students may view their final grades in the Student Information System (SIS).  Students can access the SIS by logging into My WCC with their username and password.

Course Repeat Policy

A student at Wytheville Community College is limited to two (2) enrollments in the same course. Should a student desire to take a course for a third time, he/she must get written approval from the appropriate academic dean prior to registering for that course. No student will be allowed to take a course more than three (3) times. This limitation does not apply to the general use, repeatable courses numbered 090-190-290, 095-195-295, 096-196-296, 097-197-297, 098-198-298, and 099-199-299. These numbers include internship, seminar, and supervised study courses.

When a student does repeat a course, the highest grade earned will be the grade used in computing the grade point average for graduation.

Academic Records

Student Permanent Record

A uniform student permanent record shall be used by each community college. The permanent record includes:

1. The credits transferred from other institutions, including the number of credit hours given (the number of hours may change if the student transfers from one curriculum to another);
2. The semester in which the student is currently enrolled;
3. The student’s social security number or ID number;
4. The Academic Program and Plan;
5. The course number, the course title, the hours attempted, the hours completed, and grade for each course. Course section shall be optional;
6. A grade point average for each semester attended;
7. The cumulative grade point average of the student; and 
8. Academic action taken against the student including academic probation, suspension, and dismissal. This does not require notation on the student’s official transcript. 
9. Degrees, diplomas, certificates, honors.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, is a federal law which allows students access to their educational records and prohibits the release of information from students educational records by the institution without the written consent of the student, with certain specified exceptions.

Wytheville Community College grants all rights under the law to students who are declared independent. No one outside the institution will have access to, nor will the institution disclose, any information from the student’s educational records without written consent of the student, except to personnel within the institution, to officials of other institutions in which students seek to enroll, to persons or organizations providing student’s financial aid, to accrediting agencies carrying out their accreditation functions, to persons in any emergency in order to protect the health or safety of students or other persons. All these exceptions are permitted under the act.

At its discretion, the institution may provide directory information in accordance with the provisions of the act to include:

1. Student’s name
2. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
3. Weight and height of members of athletic teams
4. Degrees, honors, and awards received
5. Major field of study
6. Dates of attendance
7. Grade level
8. The name of the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended
9. Number of credit hours enrolled
10. Photos

Directory information will be withheld for students who notify the Admissions and Records Office in writing using a form that can be found online here.

Request for nondisclosure will be honored by the institution for only one academic year; therefore, authorization to withhold directory information must be filed annually in the Admissions and Records Office. Detailed information about the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is available online.

Credits Applicable to Second Degree, Diploma, or Certificate

In awarding students an additional degree, diploma, certificate, or career studies certificate, the college may grant credit for all completed applicable courses which are requirements of the additional degree, diploma, certificate, or career studies certificate. However, the awards must differ from one another by at least 25% of the credits.

Outcomes Assessment Requirement

Students may be required to complete testing, survey, questionnaire or other assessment activities designed to measure general education achievement and/or achievement in selected major areas prior to graduation, for the purpose of evaluation of academic programs. No minimum score or level of achievement is required on this assessment for graduation. Assessment results will remain confidential and will be used for the sole purpose of improvement of the college.

Graduation Honors

Students who have completed the requirements in the curriculum are eligible for graduation honors according to their cumulative grade point average. For the purpose of the graduation ceremony, honor recognitions are based on the fall semester cumulative GPA. Transcripts and diplomas, however, will reflect the final semester cumulative GPA. The honors, based on scholastic achievement, are as follows:

Degrees and Certificates

Wytheville Community College offers the following degrees or certificates for students who successfully complete approved programs:

1. Associate of Arts and Sciences (A.A.&S.) and Associate of Science (A.S.) degrees are awarded to students majoring in a specialized curriculum and who may transfer to four-year colleges or universities after completing their community college programs.
2. Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree of diploma is awarded to students majoring in Occupational-Technical curricula and who may plan to obtain fulltime employment immediately after graduation from the college.
3. Certificate is awarded to students who complete one of the approved non-degree curricula which are usually less than two years in length.

Graduation Requirements

Associate Degree/Diploma Requirements

To be awarded an associate degree or diploma from the college, students must:

1. Have fulfilled all course and credit hour requirements of their curricula as outlined in the college catalog/student handbook. At least 25% of the credits must be earned at WCC.
2. Have filed an application for graduation in the Admissions and Records Office by the publicized deadline. For Fall, the deadline is December 1; for Spring, the deadline is March 1; for Summer, the deadline is in July.
3. Have earned a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all studies attempted which are applicable toward graduation in their curricula.
4. Have been certified for graduation by an appropriate college official. Students must first meet with their assigned faculty advisor for graduation certification.
5. Have resolved all financial obligations to the college and returned all library and other college materials.

Certificate Requirements

To be eligible for graduation with a certificate from the college, a student must:

1. Have fulfilled all of the course and credit hour requirements of the curriculum specified in the college catalog/student handbook with a minimum of 25% of the credits having been earned at WCC.
2. Have earned a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all studies which are applicable toward graduation in the student’s curriculum.
3. Have filed an application for graduation in the Admissions and Records Office by the publicized deadline.
4. Have resolved all financial obligations to the college and returned all library and other college materials.
5. Have been certified for graduation by an appropriate college official.

Upon recommendation of the instructional division and the Vice President of Academics, students who pursue a degree program but are unable to complete the requirements may be issued a certificate, provided the portion of study completed is equivalent to an approved certificate program offered at the college.

Career Studies Certificate Requirements

To be eligible to receive a career studies certificate from the college, a student must:

1. Have fulfilled all of the course and credit hour requirements of the certificate as specified in the college catalog/student handbook with a minimum of 25% of the credits having been acquired at the college awarding the career studies certificate.
2. Have been certified and recommended for completion by an appropriate college official.
3. Have earned a grade point average of at least 2.0 in all studies which are applicable toward completion of the student’s career studies certificate.
4. Have filed an application for certificate completion in the Admissions and Records Office.
5. Have resolved all financial, library, and other obligations to the college.

Academic Terminology

Academic Standing

1. Good Standing - Students are considered to be “in good academic standing” if they do not fall under one of the below categories. 
2. Academic Warning - Students who fail to attain a minimum grade point average of 2.00 for any semester shall receive a notification of academic warning to inform them they are at risk of incurring negative academic standings in subsequent terms. Academic warning is not an official standing. 
3. Academic Probation - A student is placed on academic probation when: the cumulative grade point average is less than 1.5 and cumulative hours attempted are greater than twelve. The statement “Academic Probation” is placed on the student’s permanent record, but not on official transcripts. A student in a degree program is cautioned that, although an average between 1.5 and 1.99 may not result in formal academic probation, a minimum of 2.0 in a curriculum is a prerequisite for receipt of an associate degree or certificate.
4. Academic Suspension - A student is placed on academic suspension when: the semester grade point average is less than 1.5; the student’s current status is academic probation; and cumulative hours attempted are greater than twenty-three. Academic suspension normally will be for one semester, excluding summer, unless the student reapplies and is accepted for readmission to another curriculum of the college. The summer semester will not count as a semester out of school for students who are academically suspended. The statement “Academic Suspension” will be placed on the student’s permanent record.  Suspended students may be readmitted after termination of the suspension period and upon formal written petition to the chair of the Student Success Committee.  The written appeal must be submitted prior to the beginning of the semester in which the student seeks to re-enroll.
5. Academic Dismissal - Students who do not maintain  at least a 2.0 grade point average for the semester of reinstatement to the college when on academic suspension will be academically dismissed. Students who have been placed on academic suspension and achieve a 2.0 grade point average for the semester of their reinstatement must maintain at least a 1.5 cumulative grade point average in each subsequent semester of attendance. Students remain on probation until their cumulative grade point average is raised to a minimum of 1.5. Failure to attain a cumulative 1.5 grade point average in each subsequent semester until cumulative GPA reaches a 1.5 will result in academic dismissal. Academic dismissal normally is permanent unless, with good cause, students reapply and are accepted under special consideration for readmission by the Student Success Committee. A written appeal must be submitted prior to the beginning of the semester in which the student seeks to re-enroll. The statement “Academic Dismissal” will be placed on the student’s permanent record.

Normal Academic Load

The normal academic course load for a student is 15-17 credits. The minimum full-time load is 12 credits and the normal maximum full-time load is 18 credits, excluding College Success Skills (SDV 100   or SDV 101 ).   Students wishing to carry an academic load of more than 18 credits should have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 and must have the approval of the dean of the student’s academic program.  Only under extraordinary circumstances may students petition the Vice President of Academics to enroll for more than 23 credit hours in a semester. Students placed on academic warning or academic probation may be required to take less than the normal course load.

Orientation

An orientation program is provided to acquaint students with the college’s services, programs, and enrollment procedures. Orientation begins when students meet with counselors to discuss their educational interests and abilities and to plan their programs at the college. In addition, all first-time curricular students must complete a one-credit College Success Skills course (SDV 100 ) within the first 15 credits of enrollment. The topics and activities for this course include campus tours, introduction to college procedures and regulations, career information, and study skills. Note: Orientation may be waived upon request if student has previously completed a two- or four-year degree.

WCC utilizes Navigate, an online student success management system, to acquaint new students with the college’s services and enrollment procedures.  Upon application to the College, students log into Navigate where they are “onboarded” and have access to a To-Do list that details the path to becoming a student.  Students have the opportunity to complete a career interest assessment, become familiar with curriculum requirements, and obtain support resources.

In-Person and Distance Learning

Wytheville Community College offers in-person, hybrid, online, and hyflex courses to fulfill the needs of full-time and part-time students.

• In-person classes are available on campus in Wytheville or at WCC at Crossroads in Galax and at WCC at the Henderson in Marion.
• Hybrid courses often consist of a small number of in-person meetings with the majority of student participation and learning occurring online.
• Online courses allow students to access robust resources and complete coursework using a customized learning management system (LMS).
• Hyflex is WCC’s newest modality allowing students to participate in-person or remotely in real-time to best accommodate their needs and situations. Hyflex courses utilize the latest learning technologies to provide multimedia content and interactivity to all participants regardless of their locations.

Upon the start of a hybrid, online, hyflex courses, the student is provided with appropriate materials and communication which may include: course outline/syllabus, assignment schedule, and assessments via the VCCS learning management and email systems. These statewide systems are designed to provide a high level of security to ensure student privacy and course integrity.

WCC faculty, instructional technology staff, and student services personnel are available for student assistance as needed.

Dean’s List and President’s Honor Roll

Dean’s List - Students enrolled full-time who earn a semester grade point average of 3.2 or better for the semester are placed on the Dean’s List.

President’s Honor Roll - Students who have earned a minimum of 20 hours of credit at the college, are carrying a minimum of 6 semester hours in a given semester, and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher are included in the President’s Honor Roll for that semester.

Graduation

Wytheville Community College has one formal graduation exercise in May for students completing certificate, diploma, and degree programs. All graduating students completing their programs in the spring are encouraged to attend graduation.  Students completing in the fall semester may choose to attend the following spring graduation. Prospective graduates must meet with their faculty advisor and file an application for graduation by the published deadline. Applications can be obtained in the Admissions and Records Office or online. Students are permitted to participate in the Spring graduation ceremony if they have completed a program of study or will complete their program during the summer term.

Policy and Procedures for Awarding Associate Degrees Posthumously

At the request of a parent, guardian, spouse, child of the decedent, or an interested party, Wytheville Community College will award an associate degree posthumously to a student in good academic and financial standing who had entered the second semester of the second year of an associate degree program and completed at least 80 percent of the degree requirements. The Dean of Student Success and Academic Development or Academic Deans may recommend the waiving of the remaining requirements for the appropriate academic degree.

The Dean’s recommendation and appropriate documentation will be submitted to the Vice President of Academics and the college Registrar for review. If approved, the recommendation will be forwarded by the Vice President to the President for final approval.

Upon prior approval of the family, the name of the deceased student will be announced at commencement and the diploma will be given to a family member of the deceased or to someone chosen by the family.

Once You Are a WCC Student

Syllabi

Students can expect to receive a syllabus in each course within a week of the initial class meeting. The syllabus contains all pertinent information for the class including the instructor’s expectations, instructor contact information, grading scales and attendance policies.

Final Exams

Final examinations are required in all courses except for courses which are skill competency-based and some Developmental Studies courses in which the final examination and the completion of the course may occur at any time during the semester.

All students will be expected to take their examinations at the regularly scheduled times. Exceptions shall be made ONLY with the permission of the academic dean and the instructor of the course.

Usually four days are scheduled for final exams each semester. The exam schedule is distributed by the Vice President of Academics. The following minimum times should be allotted for exams:

• 1 credit course - 50 minutes final exam
• 2 credit course - 100 minutes final exam
• 3 credit course - 150 minutes final exam
• 4 credit course - 150 minutes final exam

Academic Progress

Grading system:

• Grades of A, B, C, D, S and P are passing grades.
• Grades of F and U are failing grades.
• Grades of P, R, S and U apply only to Developmental Studies courses.
• Grades of I mean Incomplete; that is, the student was unable to finish the course after having completed nearly all of the work and has been granted a one semester extension. When the student completes the work, the instructor for the class will submit a new grade. After one semester, a grade of I will revert to an F, if the work has not been completed.
• Grades of W are shown on a transcript when a student has withdrawn from a class after the initial add and drop period in the semester. A W has no effect on the student’s grade point average, but may affect Satisfactory Academic Progress for Financial Aid.
• Normally, if a student transfers to a four-year college or university, only grades of A, B, and C will be accepted for credit in courses equivalent to those offered at the four-year college or university.

The recommended numerical range for each letter grade is as follows:

Instructors are not required to follow this recommended scale; however, if an instructor plans to deviate from these figures, the students will be informed in the class syllabus at the beginning of the term.  For specific program and/or course grading requirements, please refer to your academic program, student handbook or the course syllabus.

Academic Resources

Library (Learning Resources Center - LRC)

The WCC Library is located in Smyth Hall. Library hours can be found here. The LRC contains books, periodicals, audio-visual materials, and electronic resources to meet the needs of students, members of the community, and WCC employees. The LRC is open to the public and an ID is required to check out materials.

The LRC contains more than 21,000 volumes and is able to access multiple on-line serial services. Electronic resources are available in the LRC through VIVA (Virtual Library of Virginia). The book collection is housed in open stacks, and multiple areas are available throughout the facility for places to study. The LRC’s collection is accessed through an online catalog.  Electronic resources in the LRC include 48 computers that can be used by students and community patrons, for research and testing.

The LRC offers students quiet areas and areas for group work.  A group study room and a large collaborative space that includes a large display unit are available by reservation.  Food and drinks are allowed in the library.  

Lost Materials and Fines

Students who damage or lose library materials are expected to pay for such losses.

Patrons are billed at the current replacement value of books and videos/DVDs. Out-of-print books are billed at $50.00 and unavailable audio-visual materials are billed at $100.00. If materials are found after they have been paid for, the borrower must present the material and the receipt to the library. The Business Office will be notified to request reimbursement from the Virginia State Treasurer. Payments for lost materials are nonrefundable after 30 days.

1Stop Student Services

The 1Stop Student Services (Room 100, Bland Hall) offers a variety of academic and student support services to include:

• A secured, proctored testing center for general usage.
• Pearson Vue authorized testing center
• Financial Aid
• Admissions and Records
• New student onboarding
• Health enrollment
• Dual Enrollment services for high school students
• Academic advisors and counselors who are available to assist with academic advising, disability services, veteran support, transfer assistance, and referrals to community agencies.
• Tutoring in most general education areas.
• TRIO Student Support Services

Computer Lab

Computers are available to students in the Library LRC in Smyth Hall on a first-come, first-served basis. Computers for research purposes are also available in the library. Other labs may be available for student use outside scheduled class upon request.

Student Success Programs

TRIO Programs

TRIO Programs are federally-funded programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. WCC has three TRIO Programs: Student Support Services, Educational Talent Search and Upward Bound.

Student Support Services (Project AIM)

The Student Support Services Program’s mission is to assist eligible students with the goal of increasing their retention, graduation, and transfer rates. Services that are provided by Project AIM include:

• Personal and Educational Counseling
• Academic Advisement
• Career Counseling
• Peer Mentoring
• Tutorial Services
• Transfer Assistance
• Financial Aid Advisement
• Book Loans
• Cultural Activities

Offices for the Student Support Services (Project AIM) staff are located inside Carroll Hall across from the WCC Police Department.

Educational Talent Search

The Educational Talent Search (ETS) Program is a federal project administered by the college as a community service. The program staff coordinates counseling, financial aid, and enrollment services for students over the age of 11. The office at Wytheville Community College serves WCC area residents. More information may be obtained in the ETS office in Bland Hall and via the college’s web site (www.wcc.vccs.edu).

Upward Bound

Upward Bound is a federally-funded college prep program serving high school students in the Wytheville Community College service region.  Participants in this year round program receive tutoring, academic advising, and access to cultural enrichment activities.  Students participate in a Summer Enrichment Program which provides academic instruction in mathematics, laboratory sciences, English, and foreign languages.  Upward Bound staff are located in Bland Hall.

Services for Students with Disabilities

To support the educational pursuits of persons with disabilities in our service region, it is the mission of Wytheville Community College to 1) disseminate information to increase awareness of services available to persons with disabilities; 2) assist with the matriculation of persons with disabilities into the college environment; 3) develop and implement disability-related support services that promote the educational and personal development of persons with disabilities by networking with campus and community-based resources; and 4) assist with the successful integration of persons with disabilities into continued educational activities and/or the world of work.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states: “No otherwise qualified individual with a disability shall, solely by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity.”

“Otherwise qualified” in the ADA means that only those people who are able to meet the technical and academic qualifications for entry into a school, program or activity are protected by the ADA. This means that accommodations which are a “fundamental alteration” of a program or which would impose an undue financial or administrative burden are not required.

The college has no responsibility for identification and evaluation of students with disabilities. If an evaluation is needed, the expense is the student’s responsibility.

Procedure for Requesting Reasonable Accommodations

To initiate the request for accommodations the student must:

• Meet the admission requirements: application for admission; transcripts; and placement testing, if applicable. Alternate placement testing format be requested in advance.
• Self-identify in Student Services that he or she has a disability.
• Arrange an appointment with disability services counselor in Student Services to determine if he or she qualifies for reasonable accommodations.
• Provide appropriate documentation (see the guidelines which follow) of the disability.
• Request specific accommodation(s) 90 days in advance of the first day of class.
• Discuss the disability with his or her academic advisor and instructors and provide them with a copy of the authorized accommodations.

Guidelines for Documentation of Disabilities

Students seeking academic accommodations are required to submit documentation verifying eligibility under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

All documentation is confidential and is not considered a part of the academic transcript. The following guidelines are provided in the interest of identifying evaluation reports appropriate to document eligibility.

• Documentation must be current (within three years) and comprehensive.
• Reports must contain the names, titles, and license information of the evaluator(s), and the dates of evaluation(s).
• Reports must be submitted on professional letterhead. Prescription pads and copies of letterhead are not acceptable.
• Reports should contain recommendations for reasonable accommodations suitable to a postsecondary academic setting. Specific suggestions to best assist the identified student are also very helpful.

American with Disabilities Act Complaint Procedure

Wytheville Community College has adopted an internal procedure which provides for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Americans with Disabilities Act states, in part, that “no otherwise qualified disabled individual shall, solely by reason of such disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits, of, or be subjected to discrimination” in programs or activities sponsored by a public entity.

Complaints should be addressed to the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development, who has been designated to coordinate disability services for students.

1. A complaint should be filed in writing, contain the name and address of the person filing it, and briefly describe the alleged violation of the regulations.
2. A complaint should be filed within 30 calendar days after the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation.
3. An investigation, as may be appropriate, shall follow the filing of a complaint. The investigation shall be informal but thorough and afford all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to the complaint.
4. A written determination as to the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, shall be issued and forwarded to the complainant no later than 10 calendar days after its filing.
5. The complainant can request a reconsideration of the case in instances of dissatisfaction with the resolution. The request for reconsideration should be made to the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development within 10 calendar days.
6. The ADA coordinator shall maintain the files and records relating to the complaints filed.
7. The right of a person to a prompt and equitable resolution of the complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by nor shall the use of this procedure be a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies.

Other remedies include the filing of an ADA complaint with the federal EEOC, or other responsible federal agency.

Campus Safety and Security

WCC will make every effort to provide a healthful and safe environment for students, employees, community patrons and visitors. The WCC Police Department was formed in 2012 and provides coverage on the Wytheville campus and at the Crossroads Institute site. Officers are highly qualified and have experience and training in law enforcement and/or security. The college has established emergency preparedness plans and schedules and carries out emergency drills during the fall and spring semesters. Emergency notifications systems are in place including the WCC Alert Notification System (sign up link is on college website), Wytheville campus phone intercom system, and external loudspeaker. Emergency procedures are posted in classrooms and common areas.  The college partners with the Town of Marion Police Department to provide coverage at WCC at the Henderson.

The college has established the following standing committees that focus on campus safety: Safety Committee, Threat Assessment Committee, and Violence Prevention Committee. WCC actively complies with the Save Act (in compliance with Title IX) and has an established Violence Prevention Policy. The college also complies with the Clery Act by monitoring and reporting campus incidents. 

Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security

The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990, as amended by the Higher Education Technical Amendments of 1991, requires colleges and universities to disclose to current and prospective students certain information.

• Student Right-to-Know - Title I of the Act requires institutions to produce and make readily available to current students and to each prospective student enrolling or entering into any financial obligation information about the school’s academic programs, graduation or completion rates, and transfer-out rates on certificate or degree-seeking full-time, undergraduates who enter school on or after July 1, 1996. Graduation, Completion, and Transfer-out rate information is available on the WCC website under About WCC-WCC Facts.
• Crime Awareness and Campus Security - Title II of the Act requires that institutions provide to their current students and to any applicant for enrollment information on institutional policies regarding security procedures and campus law enforcement, as well as a description of programs designed to inform students about crime prevention. Title II of the Act also calls for institutions to provide statistical data about the occurrence on campus of certain criminal offenses which have been reported to campus security authorities or local police agencies. Campus crime information is published annually on the college’s website. The information is also available in the WCC Police Department located on the lower level of Carroll Hall.

Non-Discrimination

Wytheville Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, political affiliation, genetics, veteran status, or disability when the person is otherwise qualified in its educational programs and activities or employment. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Malinda Eversole, Director of Human Resources, 105 Carroll Hall, 1000 East Main Street, Wytheville VA 24382, 276-223-4869. For further information, see the list of OCR enforcement offices for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call 1-800-421-3481.

Student Conduct

As a member of Wytheville Community College’s student body, the student is considered to be a responsible adult. The student’s conduct while in class, on-campus, or participating in any other college-sponsored activity should reflect that adult responsibility. The college considers the student responsible for his/her conduct.

The great majority of students conduct themselves appropriately. In those cases in which a student’s behavior may be outside of the bounds of what is expected, the college reserves the right to take disciplinary action as needed to preserve order and/or to maintain an effective educational environment. Generally, the college will initiate disciplinary action when a student engages in any conduct not authorized by the college that disrupts the educational pursuits of other students, the maintenance of order, the educational environment on campus, or the proper functioning of the college. Examples of conduct for which a student may be subject to disciplinary action include but are not necessarily limited to the following:

• Academic cheating or plagiarism.
• Disruptive behavior in classrooms, on campus, or at any other college-sponsored activity.
• Unauthorized use or possession of firearms or fireworks.
• Possession of alcoholic beverages.
• Gambling.
• Intentionally furnishing false information to the college.
• Forgery, unauthorized alteration, or misuse of college documents, records, or identification.
• Lewd and lascivious behavior.
• Reckless operation of a motor vehicle on campus property.
• Assault and battery or threats of bodily harm to students, faculty or staff.
• Destruction, damage, defacing or misuse of public or private property.
• Theft, larceny, or embezzlement.
• Writing bad checks to pay bills owed to the college.
• Obscene conduct or public profanity.
• Accessing obscene and pornographic materials on the college’s computers.
• Manufacture, sale, possession, distribution, or use of narcotics, marijuana, or other controlled substances.
• Illegal entry and/or occupation of state property.
• Sexual harassment/sexual misconduct.
• Using the college’s name for soliciting funds or other activity without authorization from a proper college authority.
• Intentionally violating copyright laws.

The College’s Student Code of Conduct is hereby amended to include the following provisions and any violation of such shall be grounds for discipline under the College’s Student Code of Conduct policy. All other provisions remain unchanged and applicable:

A. Disruptive Acts

1. Disrupting or obstructing the normal learning, living, or work environments of other members of the College community or the functions or activities of the College (as well as activities conducted on the College’s property with its permission) is prohibited. Examples include: blocking entrances, corridors or exits; interfering with ongoing educational activities, cultural events, or recreational, extracurricular or athletic programs; unauthorized presence in a building after normal closing hours or after notice that the building is being closed; interfering with vehicular or pedestrian traffic; creating unsanitary conditions; and interfering with any other effort to protect the health and safety of members of the College community or larger public.
2. No person may obstruct, disrupt, or attempt by physical force to cancel or discontinue speech by any speaker or the observation of speech by any person intending to see or hear a speaker.

B. Violations of Laws, Regulations, and Ordinances

1. Prohibited conduct includes violations of federal, state, or local laws, regulations, orders, or ordinances.

1. Students have a continuing duty to promptly report to the WCC Police Department at 276-223-4713 any arrests for violations of federal, state, local, or international law, excluding minor traffic violations that do not result in injury to others. This duty applies regardless of where the arrest occurred (inside or outside the Commonwealth of Virginia) and regardless of whether the College is in session at the time of the arrest. An arrest includes the issuance of a written citation or summons regardless of whether the student is taken into custody by law enforcement. Charges related to driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs are not “minor traffic violations” and must be reported.

C. Masking to Conceal Identity

1. Consistent with Virginia Code § 18.2-422, any individual who is present on College property or attending a College event who is wearing a mask, hood, or other device whereby a substantial portion of the face is hidden or covered so as to conceal the identity of the wearer, must present a valid college or government issued identification document containing both the person’s legal name and photograph when requested by  the WCC Police Department at 276-223-4713 or otherwise establish the individual’s identity to the satisfaction of the WCC Police Department in conjunction with the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development.

D. Encampments

1. The construction or occupation of a Camping Tent is prohibited.

1. “Camping Tent” means any collapsible tent or structure, typically having as its basic components a flexible material supported by a framework, designed, intended, or used as temporary shelter while camping or on recreational outdoor outings.  Camping Tents may include tents known as “pup tents,” “dome tents,” “cabin tents,” “hiker tents,” and “backpacking tents.” 
2. A “Camping Tent” does not include a tent with all sides entirely open and where there is an unobstructed view into such tent from the outside at all angles.  All other conduct provisions apply to the use of open tents. 
3. All tents require advance approval through the facility use approval process.  Only Event Tents shall be permitted to remain on the property overnight.  All other tents are not permitted on College Property.  An “Event Tent” is a non-Camping Tent and is not less than 400 square feet or a tent that requires skilled or professional installation and removal.

2. Camping is prohibited on property owned, leased, or operated by the College, Virginia Community College System, or their foundations. 

1. “Camping” means the act of using any part of the property or facilities for living accommodation purposes, such as establishment of temporary or permanent living quarters, sleeping outdoors overnight or making preparations for overnight sleeping (including the laying down of bedding), storing personal belongings, using any tent, shelter, or similar structure regardless of size for sleeping; sleeping in, on, or under parked vehicles, or setting up temporary or permanent sleeping areas outdoors or in structures not designated for human occupancy.
2. “Camping” does not include the use of College, VCCS, or their foundations’ property that has been wholly or partially designated as sleeping or relaxation areas; a tailgating activity in conjunction with a College, VCCS, or foundation event; or the use of temporary hammocks or lounge furniture for recreation or studying activities outdoors on College, VCCS, or foundation owned property during the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

3. These prohibitions shall not apply to the College, the Virginia Community College System Office, or the College or System foundations or to Non-Camping Tents erected for their use.

4. These prohibitions shall not apply to federal, state, or local governments or their agencies or to Non-Camping Tents erected for their use. 

E. Applicability:

1. The Code of Conduct, including this Addendum, shall apply both to the conduct of individual students as well as student organizations.
2. Each recognized student organization shall represent that its activities and the activities of its members will not violate federal, state, or local law; or the College’s Code of Conduct, including this Addendum. 
3. The Code of Conduct, including this Addendum, applies to all student activities within College, VCCS, or their foundations’ programs or activities wherever located.  The Code of Conduct, including this Addendum, also applies to all student conduct occurring on the College campus and on any property owned, leased, or operated by the College, VCCS, or their foundations. The Code of Conduct, including this Addendum, additionally applies to any property used as a student residence and in regard to which students have expressly agreed to abide by or provided written consent to be governed by College policies. Violations of other College or VCCS policies may result in disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct.

Electronic Bullying and Harassment Policy

When a student uses any type of social media for psychological, racial or sexual abuse or as a tool to bully or intimidate another student, faculty or staff member, that student will be in violation of this policy. The college administration and Threat Assessment Team (TAT) will take whatever disciplinary action that might be necessary to protect the rights of those being harassed or abused.

Misuse of Federal Funds Policy

Financial Aid is expected to be used for the student receiving the award for his or her educational expenses only. If students use federal funds for someone other than themselves or use funds in a way that does not support their own educational endeavors, the student is in violation of federal funds policy.

Violence Prevention Policy

Wytheville Community College prohibits threats and acts of violence on college property, within college facilities, at any college-sponsored event; while engaged in college business, educational, or athletic activities; and while traveling in state vehicles. Prohibited conduct includes but is not limited to:

• injuring another person physically;
• engaging in behavior that creates a reasonable fear of injury to self or another person;
• engaging in behavior that would subject a reasonable person to, and does subject another individual to, extreme emotional distress;
• possessing, brandishing, or using a weapon while on state premises by students, except where possession is a result of participation in an organized and scheduled instructional exercise for a course, or where the student is a law enforcement professional;
• possessing, brandishing, or using a firearm, weapon or other device by faculty or staff that is not required by the individual’s position while on college/system office property or engaged in college/system office business; or in violation of law or other college/system office policy, except where the employee is a law enforcement professional;
• brandishing, using or possessing a weapon without a permit to carry a concealed weapon by third parties while on campus in academic or administrative buildings, or while attending a sporting, entertainment or educational event, when specifically asked by the college to agree not to possess a weapon as a condition of attendance. This provision does not apply to law enforcement personnel.
• brandishing or using a weapon by third parties with a permit to carry a concealed weapon while on campus in academic or administrative buildings, or while attending a sporting, entertainment or educational event, when specifically asked by the college to agree not to possess a weapon as a condition of attendance. This provision does not apply to law enforcement personnel.
• intentionally damaging property;
• threatening to injure an individual (including oneself) or to damage property;
• committing injurious acts motivated by, or related to, domestic violence or sexual harassment; and
• retaliating against any employee or student who, in good faith, reports a violation of this policy.

Consequences of Policy Violations:

1. Employees violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination and criminal prosecution using existing policies and procedures including Section 3 of the VCCS Policy Manual or DHRM Policy 1.60, Standards of Conduct. Additionally, employees who are identified as engaging in the use of threatening language or behavior may be required, as a condition of continued employment, to participate in a mental health evaluation as part of a threat assessment process, and receive approval from the mental health evaluator that they are not a risk to themselves or others.
2. Students violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in their respective college’s Student Handbook, and other college policies as appropriate. Additionally, students who are identified as engaging in the use of threatening language or behavior may be required, as a condition of continued enrollment, to participate in a mental health evaluation as part of a threat assessment process, and receive approval from the mental health evaluator that they are not a risk to themselves or others.
3. Visitors and third parties violating this policy will be subject to applicable, state, and federal laws, and associated regulations, and may be barred from the college/System Office at the college’s/System Office’s discretion for violating this policy.

For the complete policy, see VCCS Policy Manual Section 3.14.6 (http://www.vccs.edu/Portals/0/ContentAreas/PolicyManual/Sct3.pdf).

Weapons Policy

As per the Governor of Virginia’s Executive Order #50 (2015)- Executive Order To Prevent Gun Violence, Virginia Department Of General Services Directive #16 - Banning Open Carry Of Firearms, and the Virginia Administrative Code Title 1 Chapter 105 - Regulations Banning Concealed Firearms In Offices Owned Or Occupied By Executive Branch Agencies and Title 8 Chapter 10 - Regulation Of Weapons, Virginia Department of Human Resource Management Policy 1.80 - Workplace Violence, any person while on Wytheville Community College property is prohibited from the possession or carrying of any weapon, except police officers, in academic buildings, administrative office buildings, student centers, dining facilities and places of like kind where people congregate, or while attending any sporting, entertainment, or educational events. Entry upon Wytheville Community College property in violation of this prohibition is expressly forbidden.

Any individual in violation of this prohibition will be asked to remove the weapon immediately. Failure to comply may result in a student conduct referral, an employee disciplinary action, or arrest.

This policy shall not apply to current sworn and certified local, state, and federal law enforcement officers with proper identification, nor shall it apply to possession of a weapon when stored securely inside the vehicle of properly permitted students and employees.

The Wytheville Community College Chief of Police or his or her designee, may authorize in writing a person to possess, store, or use a weapon: (i) when used for educational or artistic instruction, display, parade, or ceremony sponsored or approved by the college (unloaded or disabled only and with other specified safeguards, if appropriate); or (ii) for any college-approved training, course, or class.

Drug-Free Learning Environment

Use and Abuse of Alcohol and Illicit Drugs, Including Marijuana

Wytheville Community College seeks to provide a safe and stable learning environment for its students. As a part of that effort, the college fully complies with all state and federal statutes relating to substance and alcohol use and abuse. The college is designated a drug-free zone and provides educational programs about the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol.

The college’s drug prevention program has been established in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 (Public Law 101-226).
Marijuana/Cannabis:  Virginia law permits adults aged 21 or older to possess, use, and grow marijuana under certain circumstances; however, federal law continues to prohibit it and requires institutions of higher education that receive federal funds, including financial aid, to have policies prohibiting marijuana on campus property or at campus-sponsored off-campus events.  Students and employees of Wytheville Community College shall not possess, sell, use, manufacture, give away or otherwise distribute illegal substances while on campus, attending a college sponsored off-campus event, or while serving as a representative of the college at off-campus meetings.  Individuals who violate this policy shall have college charges  processed against them in accordance with the student conduct or human resources procedures governing such violations.  In addition, the college reserves the right to notify the appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation and, if warranted, charges pressed against them.

In addition, WCC and/or any agency providing school sanctioned, off-campus learning and/or clinical experiences for students may require drug and/or alcohol testing prior to student placement or during a learning experience if documented behavior suggesting drug and/or alcohol abuse is exhibited.

Tobacco and Related Products

Smoking is defined as any product or apparatus (such as an electronic or e-cigarette) that emits smoke or is designed to simulate smoking cigarettes or any other tobacco product. At this time, smoking is allowed in certain designated areas. In situations where there is no designated area, the smoker should be 25 feet from the closest building.

The use of tobacco products is not permitted inside any WCC building on the Wytheville Campus and at off-site locations at the Crossroads Institute and WCC at the Henderson. The college will continue to offer prevention information for all drugs to promote healthy living.

Sexual Misconduct

An educational institution is a community of trust whose very existence depends on the recognition of each individual’s importance and value. This trust creates and nurtures the freedom of each individual to live, think, act, and speak in a manner that contributes to a wholesome and productive academic environment. It is the intent of Wytheville Community College to foster and maintain a campus environment free of sexual misconduct and the fear of such behavior.

Sexual misconduct is a flagrant violation of the values and behavioral expectations for a college community. Wytheville Community College does not tolerate sexual misconduct in any form. All reported violations will be investigated and, if proven, punished through the college disciplinary processes.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct or written communication of a sexual nature which is intimidating, hostile or offensive. It takes two legal shapes:

• Quid pro quo - Harassment occurs when the unwelcome conduct is either explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of an individual’s employment and/or academic performance.
• Hostile environment - Hostile environment harassment differs from ‘quid pro quo’ harassment in that no discriminatory effect on grades, wages, job assignments or other tangible benefits is required. Instead, such unwelcome sexist or sexual conduct has at least one of these purposes or effects:
  
  > It unreasonably interferes with an individual’s work and/or academic performance.
  
  > It creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work and/or academic environment.

Although sexual advances such as touching, patting, hugging or brushing against a person’s body are generally viewed as forms of sexual harassment, the acts are in fact legally categorized as assault, which is a misdemeanor offense. The victims of such unwanted sexual advances may take legal action.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Sexual harassment is contrary to the values of Wytheville Community College and will not be tolerated in any form. Sexual harassment, a form of sex discrimination, is prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. This policy applies to all members of the college community including students, classified, wage employees and members of the instructional, administrative and professional faculty.

Any employee of or student at Wytheville Community College found to be in violation of the sexual harassment policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action which may include dismissal or expulsion. WCC’s Violence Prevention Policy which includes the Policy on Sexual Violence, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking can be viewed in its entirety on our website at www.wcc.vccs.edu/violence-prevention-policy.

Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act

In conjunction with the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, Section 1601 of Public Law 106-386 (HR 3244), the Commonwealth of Virginia enacted a sex offender registration act authorizing the Virginia State Police to release sex offender information to the public (Virginia Code 19.2.390.1). A list of registered sex offenders, which is searchable by zip code is provided at the web address: http://sex-offender.vsp.virginia.gov/sor/. Click on Search the Public Notification Database and search by zip code.

WCC Policy Related to Legislation Regarding Admissions of Sex Offenders

Section 23-2.2:1 of the Code of Virginia requires that the VCCS send enrollment information to the Virginia State Police concerning applicants to institutions of higher education. This information is transmitted electronically and compared against the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and National Crime Information Center Convicted Sexual Offender Registry (NCIC). Language on the web application informs applicants that their information is being transmitted to the State Police.

In the event that the State Police determine that an applicant to Wytheville Community College is listed on the Sex Offender Registry, the State Police will notify WCC. When the college receives such a notification, the following procedures apply:

It is the responsibility of any applicant that has been convicted of any sex crimes to make that information available to the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development.

Based on Policy 6.0.1: (which grants schools the right to deny admission if an individual poses a threat or is a potential danger to the college community) WCC reserves the right to revoke the admission of any student that fails to notify the college that they are a convicted sex offender.  Failure to do so could lead to automatic expulsion from WCC.

Students convicted of a sex crime that follow proper admission procedures will be evaluated by the college Threat Assessment Team. The Threat Assessment Team will make a recommendation to the college president that may include the following recommendations:

1. Student is admitted to college on a probationary status.
2. Student is admitted but only allowed to take online classes. Student is not allowed to be on campus.
3. Student is denied admission.

The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) provides that a student who is subject to an involuntary civil commitment after completing a period of incarceration for a forcible or nonforcible sexual offense is ineligible to receive a Federal Pell Grant.

Contagious Diseases Policy

Scope:

The policy applies to all members of the College community, including students and employees, as well as all visitors to the College’s Wytheville campus, two off-site education centers, and facilities, including contractors, vendors, and guests.

Policy Statement:

Wytheville Community College is committed to maintaining, to the extent reasonably possible, a safe environment for all students and employees (the “College community”). The purpose of this policy is to help prevent the spread of contagious diseases through measures that focus on safety, prevention, and education. As needed, Wytheville Community College will make available to its College community information about the transmission of diseases and precautions that infected persons should take to prevent the spread of disease. Wytheville Community College will rely on information and guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”), the Virginia Department of Health (“VDH”) and local public health officials.
This policy is not intended to cover common illnesses, such as colds and viruses, or upper respiratory infections.

Definitions:

Contagious disease: an infectious disease that is spread from person to person through casual contact or respiratory droplets, which may lead to an epidemic or pandemic and threaten the health or safety of the Campus community. These diseases include but are not limited to: tuberculosis (TB), measles or German measles (rubella), certain strains of hepatitis and meningitis, as well as SARS, and COVID-19 and certain strains of influenza. Other potentially less serious infectious diseases, such as chicken pox, seasonal flu, and pneumonia will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Epidemic: the occurrence in a community or region of cases of an illness clearly in excess of normal expectancy.

Pandemic: a disease epidemic that has spread across multiple continents or worldwide.

Procedures:

Persons who know or have reason to believe they are infected with a contagious disease that, according to public health officials, creates a risk of death or significant injury or impairment, must stay home and notify appropriate College personnel, e.g., instructor(s) or immediate supervisor. They also should contact their healthcare provider and advise the local health department. They must follow the directions of the local health department to prevent the spread of infection and to protect their own health. The Director of Human Resources and Payroll Services will serve as the point of contact between the local health department and the College.

Students:

Students who know or have reason to believe they are infected with a contagious disease that poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others, i.e., creates a risk of death or significant injury or impairment, must stay home and notify the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development and/or their instructor(s).
Faculty or staff who suspect a student is exhibiting symptoms of a contagious disease shall report what they have observed to the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development but may not take any other direct measures with respect to the student. The Dean of Student Success and Academic Development must send students home if they exhibit or report experiencing symptoms of the contagious disease. Failure to follow the written or verbal instructions will be considered a violation of the student code of conduct and may result in disciplinary action.

Before returning to the College, students who reported having, or have been diagnosed as having a contagious disease must be free of all symptoms of the disease for at least seven (7) days since the date of the first report or diagnosis, or as otherwise recommended by a healthcare provider, the VDH, CDC, or other public health officials. The College may require students to provide written documentation from a healthcare provider or local health department that the student may return to campus safely, unless state officials advise agencies to not make such requests, in which case students may return after the appropriate period as established by public health officials.

Students have a responsibility to stay in contact with faculty/instructors regarding their absence and missed class assignments and should contact the Dean of Student Success and Academics Development if they have any difficulties or concerns. The College will provide reasonable accommodations as requested and required by law.

Employees:

Employees who know or have reason to believe they are infected with a contagious disease that poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others must notify their immediate supervisor and the Director of Human Resources and Payroll Services that they have symptoms associated with the disease. Employees must stay home or leave the workplace if symptoms occur while already present at work. Supervisors have the authority to send employees home if they exhibit symptoms of a contagious disease while at the workplace. Employees will be charged sick or annual leave if sent home.

Before returning to the College, employees who have been diagnosed as having a contagious disease as listed above must be free of all symptoms of the disease for at least seven (7) days since the date of the first report or diagnosis or as otherwise recommended by a healthcare provider, the VDH, CDC, or other public health officials. Employees must provide written documentation from a healthcare provider that the employee may return to work safely, unless state officials advise agencies to not make such requests, in which case employees may return following the appropriate period as established by public health officials.

Employees must comply with all policies and procedures related to sick leave and supervisor notification regarding their ability to return to work. The College will provide reasonable accommodations as requested and required by law.

Failure to follow a supervisor’s directive is considered insubordination and is subject to formal disciplinary action under the Department of Human Resource Management’s (“DHRM”) Standards of Conduct or faculty human resource policy.

When the State Health Commissioner and the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia declare a Communicable Disease of Public Health Threat as defined in Section 32.1-48.06 of the Code of Virginia, employees, pursuant to DHRM Public Health Emergency Leave Policy (Policy No. 4.52), are permitted or required to attend to the medical needs of themselves and immediate family members and will be afforded up to the maximum hours of paid leave per leave year as established by DHRM for this purpose.

College:

Should any disease reach a pandemic stage, the College will rely on information and guidance from local and state health officials to provide appropriate information to the College community. College officials may temporarily close the College or its Wytheville campus and/or two off-site education centers, if such closure serves the best interest of the College community.

Wytheville Community College will inform the College community of plans to provide continuity of operations that will minimize disruption to campus operations. Such continuity measures may include requiring and/or permitting employees to transition to temporary telework through a telework agreement; modifying or shifting responsibilities and duties based on College needs and access to the campus; or modifying or altering normal working hours and schedules. Other measures may include implementing new safety and sanitary measures at the workplace based on current and applicable recommendations by the VDH, CDC or any other state or federal agency, and in compliance with any Executive Orders issued that would require such measures. Students and employees will be notified of specific measures and may be asked to acknowledge receipt and understanding of those measures as well as agreement to abide by them.

The College will consult with local and state health officials to provide any specific instructions for individuals returning to the College following infection of a contagious disease.

Visitors, Guests, Contractors, and other Third Parties:

The College reserves the right to limit access to its facilities to any third parties (visitors, guests, contractors, etc.), in the event of an epidemic, pandemic or any outbreak of a contagious disease that alters normal business operations. The College may institute additional safety measures based on the recommendations of public health officials that would be applicable to third parties visiting or working on campus.

Confidentiality:

No person, group, agency, insurer, employer, or institution should be provided any medical information without the prior specific written consent of the student, employee, or other College community member unless required or allowable under state and/or federal law. Furthermore, all medical information relating to contagious diseases of students and employees will be kept confidential, according to applicable state and federal law. Medical information relating to contagious diseases of persons within the College community will only be disclosed to responsible college officials on a need-to-know basis.

Non-discrimination/Harassment:

Discrimination or harassment of employees having or regarded as having a contagious disease is prohibited.

Sanctions:  

Students who fail to comply with this policy and applicable state and federal laws are subject to sanctions in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

Employees who fail to comply with all applicable Wytheville Community College, VCCS, and DHRM policies and procedures, and applicable state and federal laws are subject to formal disciplinary action.

Authority:

DHRM Policy 4.52, Public Health Emergency Leave
VCCS Policy 6.0.8.1, Contagious Diseases

Disruptive Students

Management of Crises and Behavioral Disturbances

Policy

Wytheville Community College reserves the right to dismiss students or remove faculty, staff, or patrons from the college when determined through documented evidence that post-traumatic/violent behavior may create a danger to himself/herself or other college students, faculty or staff. This policy refers to any college event or activity, athletic event, clinical, apprenticeship/internships, or any event sponsored by the college. When an individual is determined to be a danger to him/herself or others, the Office of the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development may take one or more of the following steps in order to reduce that danger:

1. Notify parents or other responsible person.
2. Notify police.
3. Request a psychological evaluation of the student, faculty, staff or patron.
4. Request that the student, faculty, staff or patron be placed in protective custody of police, parents, or hospital.

Because of the educational philosophy of the institution and the communities it serves, college officers will act in the best interests of the college and community as well as the individual. Similar action may also become necessary when there is repeated documentation of behavior which indicates that a student, faculty, staff or patron is unable to be responsible for his/her behavior to the extent that the behavior significantly interferes with the ability of other students, faculty and staff to continue or complete their work and to pursue an orderly course of living and study. This action may necessitate that the student, faculty, staff or patron be withdrawn or removed from the college.

Students that are disciplined, suspended, or expelled under any of the campus safety and security policies have the right to appeal by using the college “Grievance Procedure for Students.”

Threat Assessment Team

As a requirement of Virginia Code Section 23-9.2:10, each public college or university shall have in place policies and procedures for the prevention of violence on campus, including assessment and intervention with individuals whose behavior poses a threat to the safety of the campus community. WCC’s Threat Assessment Team will help develop policies and procedures for the prevention of violence on campus, including assessment and intervention with individuals whose behavior poses a threat to the safety of the campus community. All members of the Threat Assessment Team are considered to be school officials and will have complete access to student records when necessary to do their job.

Grievance Procedure for Students

In order to be fair and guarantee due process for students, WCC recognizes the need for an appeal policy. Students are encouraged to maintain open communication with faculty, counselors, and others who work with them in achieving educational goals. Differences which may occur are best resolved by direct, positive communication with the individual(s) concerned. (Please note that this grievance procedure applies to non-grade appeal concerns; there is a separate “Grievance Procedure for Course Grade Appeals” listed below.) The student must first discuss his or her concern directly with the other party; however, if the student remains dissatisfied with the results of the discussion, the following procedure should be followed:

1. As stated above, the student will first meet with the faculty member or other college person with whom the concern is related and try to resolve the problem at that level. However, if a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, the student will proceed to step two. The student has five (5) working days to proceed to step two.
2. The student will meet with the other party’s Dean or Supervisor.  The Dean or Supervisor has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and the college employee involved. If a satisfactory resolution of the concern does not result from the conference, the student may file a written grievance within five (5) working days of the Dean’s decision with the Vice President of Academics.
3. The student will meet with the Vice President of Academics in a personal conference. The Vice President of Academics has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and/or the college employee involved. If a satisfactory resolution of the concern does not result from the conference, the student may file a written grievance within five (5) working days with the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development.
4. The Dean of Student Success and Academic Development will refer the unresolved grievance, together with all supporting statements and the aggrieved student’s written request, to the College Judicial Board.
5. The College Judicial Board shall hold a hearing within five (5) working days after the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development’s referral for hearing.
6. In reaching its decision, the Judicial Board shall consider only the evidence presented at the hearing and such oral and written arguments as the Judicial Board may consider relevant. Within five (5) working days after the hearing, the Judicial Board shall make recommendations based upon the hearing and submit such to all parties involved.
7. If the decision of the Judicial Board is not satisfactory to the student, he/she may request in writing within five (5) working days that the President review the findings of the Judicial Board. The President has five (5) working days to render a final decision. The decision of the President is final.

The Student Grievance Procedure is designed to provide students due process when they believe college policy has been compromised. Grievable issues must be related to interpretation or application of college policy. Personal opinions, matters of taste or preference, and circumstances covered by external rules, laws, or guidelines are not typically grievable under the Student Grievance Procedure.

Grievance Procedure for Course Grade Appeals

Students are responsible for completing course requirements as outlined in course syllabi and instructions provided by each respective faculty member.  Course grades are assigned based on the approved college grading policies.  However, if students disagree with the course grade that they receive, the student may submit a formal course grade appeal.  Grade appeals must be filed in writing no later than the first thirty (30) working days of the beginning of classes of the semester immediately following student receipt of the grade in question.

As with any grievance, the student must first discuss his or her concern directly with the faculty member or members who assigned the course grade.  If the student remains dissatisfied with the results of the discussion, the student should follow the procedure outlined below:

1.  As stated above, the student will first meet with the faculty member or members who assigned the grade and try to resolve the problem at that level. However, if a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, the student will proceed to step two. The student has five (5) working days to proceed to step two.
2. For selective admission health programs, the student will meet with the Program Head. The Program Head has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and the faculty member involved. If a satisfactory resolution of the concern does not result from the meeting, the student may file a written grievance within five (5) working days of the Program Head’s decision with the Dean/Director of the Division.
3. The student will meet with the other Dean/Director of the Division in which the course was offered.  The Dean/Director has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and the faculty member involved. If a satisfactory resolution of the concern does not result from the meeting, the student may file a written grievance within five (5) working days of the Dean’s/Director’s decision with the Vice President of Academics.
4. The student will meet with the Vice President of Academics in a personal conference. The Vice President of Academics has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and/or the college employee involved. If a satisfactory resolution of the concern does not result from the conference, the student may file a written grievance within five (5) working days with the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development.
5. The Dean of Student Success and Academic Development will refer the unresolved grievance, together with all supporting statements and the aggrieved student’s written request, to the College President.
6. The President has five (5) working days to render a final decision. The decision of the President is final

*NOTE: The time limits set forth in these policies are critical and must be followed by all parties. Failure to meet deadlines will result in loss of protection granted by the policy. Any extension of deadlines must be approved by the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development. Also, college work days are Monday - Friday except for approved holidays.

The Virginia State Approving Agency (SAA) is the approving authority of education and training programs for Virginia.  Our office investigates complaints of GI Bill® beneficiaries.  While most complaints should initially follow the school grievance policy, if the situation cannot be resolved at the school, the beneficiary should contact our office via email saa@dvs.virginia.gov.  GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).  More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U. S. government Webs site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Judicial Board

The College Judicial Board is comprised of two (2) students, two (2) faculty members, and one college administrator and provides for due process review of student grievances and appeals of decisions regarding disciplinary matters. Student members will be appointed to the Board by the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development. Faculty members and the administrator will be appointed by the Vice President of Academics.

Student Complaints Under State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA)

Wytheville Community College accepts oversight from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), the Commonwealth’s coordinating body for higher education, in resolving complaints from students taking distance education under the aegis of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA). If a student has exhausted the avenues provided by the institution and the complaint has not been resolved internally, the student may submit the Student Complaint Form to SCHEV. More details on the formal SCHEV student complaints procedure may be found on the SCHEV agency page at www.schev.edu. Students may also seek resolution through the Office for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education (“OCR”). A complaint filed with OCR must be filed within 180 calendar days of the alleged discrimination. Or, if the college complaint procedure was utilized by the student, the OCR complaint must be filed within 60 calendar days from the date of the final decision, unless the time for filing is extended by the OCR for good cause shown. Information on how to proceed may be accessed on OCR’s website at: http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html.

Instruction Delivery Agreement

The institution agrees that in cases where the institution cannot fully deliver the instruction for which a student has contracted, to provide a reasonable alternative for delivering the instruction or reasonable financial compensation for the education the student did not receive. This may include tuition assurance funds, surety bonds, irrevocable letter of credit, assistance with transfer, teach-out provisions or other practices deemed sufficient to protect consumers.

Policy on Expressive Activity

This policy applies to all buildings, grounds, and other spaces owned or controlled by Wytheville Community College (WCC).  The term “expressive activity” includes:

• Meetings and other group activities of students and student organizations;
• Speeches, performances, demonstrations, rallies, vigils, and other events by students, student organizations, and outside groups invited by student organizations;
• Distributions of literature, such as leaflets and pamphlets; and
• Any other expression protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Policy Statement

College property is primarily dedicated to academic, student life, and administrative func­tions.  But it also represents the “marketplace of ideas,” and especially for students, many areas of campus represent a public forum for speech and other expressive activities.  WCC may place restrictions on expressive activities occurring indoors, but especially for students and stu­dent organizations, the outdoor areas of campus remain venues for free expression, including speeches, demonstrations, and the distribution of literature. 

Indoors or outdoors, WCC shall not interfere with the rights of individuals and groups to the free expression of their views or impermissibly regulate their speech based on its content or viewpoint.  Nevertheless, WCC may establish reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on expressive activity.  Such restrictions must be content-neutral, narrowly tailored to serve a sig­nificant governmental interest, and allow ample alternative channels for communication of the information.

No event or expressive activity shall be permitted to violate or hinder the rights of others within the campus community or substantially disrupt normal college operations.

Procedures for Expressive Activities

Reserving Campus Facilities:

1. If students, student organizations, or college employees desire to reserve campus fa­cilities, they shall submit their requests via the college website at  https://www.wcc.vccs.edu/facilities-usage. The requestor must clearly specify in the event description box that the request pertains to expressive activity. This description should not be used to simply to accelerate a regular facility reservation request. At least 24 hours advance notice (on a regular college business day, M-F, as defined by the college calendar), should be given for a reservation request to be responded to.  More notice may be required to allow for sufficient logistical support and to ensure the safety and security of the campus or if the requested location is already scheduled for use by another party. For a club sponsored student activity that is submitted as an expressive activity, the request should be submitted by the club sponsor. 
2. If individuals or organizations who are not members of the college community (i.e., not students, student organizations, or college employees) desire to reserve campus facilities, they must be sponsored by a recognized student organization or the college to conduct expressive activities or events on campus. The facility reservation request should be submitted by the club sponsor to confirm that a student organization has extended an invitation to sponsor the activity.
3. WCC designates the following indoor facilities as not available for expressive activity: administrative offices, laboratories, libraries, hallways, and (during instructional hours) classrooms. Rooms will not be reconfigured and the sponsoring organization is responsible for clean-up, etc. No A/V, custodial, or access to buildings beyond regular operating hours will be provided. Restrictions on expressive activities occurring in indoor facilities will (a) apply equally to all individuals and organizations and (b) not depend upon the content or viewpoint of the expression or the possible reaction to that expression.
4. Students, student organizations, and college employees may request to reserve cam­pus facilities on a first-come, first served basis.  These requests may be denied for the following reasons only:
   a.   The requested venue is an indoor facility that the college has designated as not available for expressive activity under section (3) of this policy;
   b.   The requested venue is an indoor facility and the request conflicts with restrictions enacted pursuant to section (3) of this policy;
   c.  The venue is already reserved for another event¹;
   d.   The activity will attract a crowd larger than the venue can safely contain;
   e.   The activity will substantially disrupt another event being held at a neighboring venue²;
   f.    The activity will substantially disrupt college operations (including classes);
   g.   The activity is a clear and present threat to public safety, according to the col­lege’s police or security department;
   h.   The activity will occur during college examination periods;
   i.    The activity is unlawful.
5. During an event, the student, student organization, or college employee requesting the reservation is responsible for preserving and maintaining the facility it reserved.  If it causes any damage to those facilities, the person(s) or organization (and its officers, if applicable) shall assume responsibility. 
6. When assessing a request to reserve campus facilities, WCC will not consider the content or viewpoint of the expression or the possible reac­tion to that expression.  WCC may not impose restrictions on students, student organizations, or college employees due to the content or view­point of their expression or the possible reaction to that expression.  In the event that other persons react negatively to a student’s, student organization’s, or college em­ployee’s expression, college officials (including college police) shall take all necessary steps to ensure public safety while allowing the expressive activity to continue.

Spontaneous Expressive Activity: 

1. Colleges are not required to designate any indoor area as available for spontaneous expressive activities.  In the event that WCC elects to do so, college officials shall prominently post the areas in which students, student organizations, and their sponsored guests may engage in spontaneous expressive activities.  Any areas so designated will (a) apply equally to all students and student organizations and (b) not depend upon the content or viewpoint of the expression or the possible reaction to that ex­pression.
2. For outdoor campus facilities and areas, students, student organizations, and their sponsored guests may freely engage in spontaneous expressive activities as long as they do not (a) block access to campus buildings, (b) obstruct vehicular or pedestrian traffic, (c) substantially disrupt previously scheduled campus events,³ (d) substan­tially disrupt college operations, (e) constitute unlawful activity, or (f) create a clear and present threat to public safety, according to the college’s police department.
3. No college personnel may impose restrictions on students, student organizations, or their sponsored guests who are engaging in spontaneous expressive activities due to the content or viewpoint of their expression or the possible reaction to that expression.  In the event that other persons react negatively to these activities, college officials (including college police) shall take all necessary steps to ensure public safety while allowing the expressive activity to continue.

          [1]           In the event that multiple individuals or organizations submit conflicting reservation requests, the following order of precedence shall govern:  (1) official college sponsored activities and events; (2) recognized student organization activities and events; (3) student activities and events; and (4) all other activities and events.

          [2]           The expression of competing viewpoints or multiple speakers in proximity to each other does not constitute a substantial disruption.

          [3]           The expression of competing viewpoints or multiple speakers in proximity to each other does not, without more, constitute a substantial disruption.

Expressive Activity Policy FAQs

FAQs:

1. What is expressive activity?⁴

Expressive activities are speech-related activities, including

• meetings;
• other group events or activities by student organizations or their invited guests;
• speeches;
• performances;
• demonstrations;
• rallies;
• vigils;
• distributions of literature; and
• any other activity protected by the First Amendment.

2. What kind of speech is protected by the First Amendment?  

The U.S. Constitution protects most speech, with very limited exceptions. In outdoor spaces, the college may place reasonable limits only on the time, place, and, manner of your expressive activity, and those limits must not depend on the content or viewpoint of the expressive activity.  In addition, for outdoor areas, students, student organizations, and their guests are not required to give notice before engaging in expressive activity.  In other words, students, student organizations, employees, and guests may engage in spontaneous expressive activities as long as they do not engage in any of the conduct listed in Number 3 below.  (There may be exceptions to this general rule; for example, your college may have an outdoor facility that requires a reservation to use.)

Indoors, colleges may place restrictions on expressive activities, as long as any rules apply to everyone equally and are not based on the content or viewpoint of the speech.  The college may determine that certain indoor facilities are not available for expressive activity.  Common examples of such areas include: (1) administrative offices, (2) libraries, (3) hallways, and (4) classrooms during instructional hours. 

3. What kind of actions related to protected speech can be regulated?

Most speech is protected by the Constitution, but sometimes, the actions that a speaker takes during an expressive activity are disruptive enough to allow a college to intervene, regardless of what is actually being expressed. For outdoor facilities and areas, students, student organizations, and their guests may freely engage in expressive activity as long as they do not also engage in any of the following: 

• block access to campus buildings;
• obstruct traffic (vehicles or pedestrians);
• substantially disrupt previously scheduled campus events;
• substantially disrupt college operations or violate or hinder the rights of others;
• break the law; or
• create a threat to public safety, according to the college’s police or security department.

4. How can someone reserve campus facilities for speech activities?

a. Request submission

Requests to reserve facilities can be made online at https://www.wcc.vccs.edu/facilities-usage. Spaces are reserved be on a first-come-first serve basis.  The college can state in advance that certain spaces cannot be reserved for speech activities.  Common examples include libraries, offices, hallways, and classrooms during instructional hours.  Any other restrictions on expressive activities that occur in indoor facilities must apply equally to everyone and not depend on the content or viewpoint of the expression, or the possible reaction to the expression. 

b. Timing

Colleges usually cannot require more than 24-hour advance notice unless the event requires additional planning to ensure safety and sufficient logistical support.  Individuals are encouraged to request the facility as soon as possible. 

c. Denials

When assessing a request to reserve a facility, the college must not consider the content or viewpoint of the expressive activity, or the possible reaction to the expressive activity.  If a facility or space is generally available to be reserved, the college can refuse a reservation by a student, student organization, or employee only for the following reasons:

• The venue is an indoor facility that has been designated as unavailable for reservation.
• The venue is an indoor facility and the request is in conflict with any restrictions the college has placed on the facility.  For example, a restriction could be that the indoor facility is unavailable on the weekends.
• The venue has been reserved already at the time requested.
• The size of the anticipated crowd is too large for the space.
• The activity would substantially disrupt another event occurring in close proximity.
• The activity would substantially disrupt college operations.
• The activity is a clear and present threat to campus safety, according to police or security. 
• The activity occurs during college exam periods.
• The activity is against the law.

d. Responsibility for the space

Anyone who reserves a facility or space is responsible for maintaining the space and will be responsible for any damages, cleaning costs, or other costs.

5. Is the college required to have indoor areas available for spontaneous expressive activities?

No.  The college is not required to have an indoor area designated for spontaneous speech activities.  However, if it chooses to create one or more, college officials must post that the area is available for students, student organizations, employees and guests to engage in expressive activities. The area must be available for all students, student organizations, employees, and guests equally, and not depend on the content or viewpoint of the expression or the possible reaction to it. 

6. What do I do if someone or a group tries to disrupt my, my organization’s or invited guest’s speech?
To report a disruption of protected speech, please contact: for student events, Renee Thomas, Dean of Student Services at 276-223-4752 or rthomas@wcc.vccs.edu, for external events, Malinda Eversole, Director of Human Resources at 276-223-4869 meversole@wcc.vccs.edu.  In cases of emergency, please call Campus Police at 276-223-4713 (Wytheville Campus), 276-223-744-4986 (Crossroads) or 911 (for WCC at the Henderson). 

7. I have additional questions.

Please contact Malinda Eversole, Director or Human Resources, at 276-223-4869 or meversole@wcc.vccs.edu  for more information.

[4] The words “speech” and “expressive activity” may be used interchangeably.

Miscellaneous Policies and Activities

Student Clubs and Activities:

Student activities at Wytheville Community College are an important part of the total college experience, providing a variety of educational, cultural, and social activities for the entire college community.  Annual events generally include Welcome Back Day, Fall Esprit, Community Halloween Celebration, and Spring Fling.  Each year, additional activities are planned to supplement these annual events with the goal of offering at least one event or activity per month.  Students are informed of upcoming activities through student email notifications and campus advertisements, and are encouraged to attend as many events as possible.  Any student interested in volunteering to assist with activities and events should contact the Dean of Student Success and Academic Development.

School Colors and Mascot:

WCC’s school’s colors are maroon and white. The official school mascot is the wildcat. The school colors and mascot are used in a variety of settings.

Student Government Association:

The Student Government Association consists of an Executive Branch made up of a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, and a Legislative Branch made up of club representatives and the student body of Wytheville Community College.  SGA serves to provide self-governance for the student body by serving as a liaison between students and administration, assisting in campus-wide student activities, and participating in community outreach within the college’s service region.  All WCC students are encouraged to participate in SGA by attending monthly meetings in person or via live social media broadcasts.

Clubs and Organizations:

There are a variety of student clubs and organizations at Wytheville Community College for student participation. Clubs and organizations can be founded by students, faculty, and staff of WCC. Each club or organization must have at least one faculty or staff member serve as club sponsor. For guidelines for club and organization fundraising activities, please contact the Student Activities Coordinator.

Recognized religious or political student organizations may limit activities that relate to the core functions of the organization to only those students who support the organization’s mission.

College Bulletin Boards and Display Cases:

The Wytheville Community College campus bulletin boards are available to promote college events, student activities, student club information, college-related community events, and area job postings for the interest of students, faculty, and staff. To ensure that items posted on the bulletin boards are relevant and current, all notices must be sent to Student Services for placement. College bulletin boards shall not be used to promote commercial enterprises or other activities unrelated to Wytheville Community College, its students, and faculty/staff. For safety and cosmetic reasons, posters and announcements shall not be hung on walls, doors or windows.

Student E-mail

WCC furnishes e-mail accounts to all registered students. Students must use their e-mail account for class-related communication.  Students should check their email daily as financial aid notifications and forms are sent by WCC email.

Parking Regulations

WCC provides open, on-campus parking facilities for faculty, administration, staff and students. All are free to park in any space EXCEPT those spaces which are specifically reserved. Cars operated by students that are improperly parked are subject to towing at the student’s expense. For safety reasons, there will be absolutely NO parking allowed along the roadway leading into the college from East Main Street. Students should park in designated parking areas. Ample parking is provided at each of the college’s off-campus sites.

Intellectual Property

The VCCS Policy Manual includes a detailed description of policies and procedures related to Intellectual Property, including ownership and responsibility issues. Students are directed to Section 12 (https://go.boarddocs.com/va/vccs/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=9P3pzg65fab7) of the manual for specific details. The Vice President of Academics has been designated as the college policy administrator. As necessary, a college committee shall be designated by the President to assist the policy administrator in implementing the provisions of this policy.

Inclement Weather Announcements

Day Classes

Decisions concerning the closing or late opening of Wytheville Community College due to inclement weather will be made by college officials early each day. WCC will be utilizing the following to communicate all closures or delays:

1.  WCC email
2.  WCC Alerts
3.  WCC website
4.  WCC Facebook page
5.  WCC Twitter feed

Due to the inability to customize messaging for TV and radio stations, and the complexities and potential confusion with using codes, the above will be the only methods used to announce closures or delays.  You can sign up for and manage your WCC Alert account at https://www.wcc.vccs.edu/alert.

WYTHEVILLE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

WCC Alerts

Wytheville Community College uses WCC Alert to immediately contact you during a major crisis or emergency.

Register or Manage WCC Alert

WCC Alert delivers important emergency alerts, notifications and updates to you on all your devices:

• E-mail account (work, home, other)
• Cell phone
• Smartphone (Android, iPhone & other mobile devices)

When an incident or emergency occurs, authorized senders will instantly notify you using WCC Alert. WCC Alert is your personal connection to real-time updates, instructions on where to go, what to do, or what not to do, who to contact and other important information.

Please remember to remove yourself from WCC ALERT when you are no longer affiliated with WCC. Since enrollment is voluntary, we have no way of knowing that you are no longer interested in being in our alert list.  

WCC Alert is a free service offered by Wytheville Community College. 
Your wireless carrier may charge you a fee to receive messages on your wireless device.

Delayed Class Schedule

Every effort will be made to keep the college open during inclement weather. However, when conditions dictate, this delayed schedule may be put into effect. The delayed schedule will be used as necessary to allow for improvement of road conditions. Each student is expected, in the final analysis, to decide whether it is safe to come to the college. Every attempt will be made to work with students who are forced to be absent because of weather.

This delayed schedule will be in effect upon communication disseminated via paths listed above. 

Any class that does not start at a regular listed time will utilize a delayed schedule that will overlap with the class.

Evening Classes

Evening classes are defined as those classes beginning at 4:00 p.m. or later.  Decisions concerning the cancellations of WCC on-campus and regional site evening classes will be made between 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. and will be announced in the same manner as used for cancellation of day classes. (NOTE: Sometimes day classes are cancelled but night classes are not. When night classes are cancelled, they may not be cancelled at all regional sites.)

Lost and Found

All personal articles found on campus are placed in the office of the WCC Campus Police Department in Carroll Hall. They may be claimed upon proof of ownership.

Telephone Usage

The telephones in the college are to be used by faculty and staff for official college business. Telephones for calling offices within the college are also located in the halls of each building on campus. Calls are limited to five minutes on hall phones.

Incoming emergency telephone calls are received by the Student Services Office. The student is located as quickly as possible and given the message. Only messages of extreme emergencies will be delivered to students by Student Services personnel.

Emergencies

Students will be called from class only in the event of emergency. All emergency numbers are listed below.