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.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Wytheville Community College recognizes the growing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in academic environments and supports their ethical, informed use as part of the learning process. However, students are expected to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity when using these technologies. All submitted work must reflect the student’s own learning, analysis, and original thought, except where collaboration or AI assistance is explicitly permitted and properly acknowledged.

The unauthorized or undisclosed use of AI tools–such as using AI to write essays, solve assignments, or generate code–may be considered academic dishonesty. Students must follow the specific AI usage guidelines provided by instructors for each course and are responsible for asking for clarification when those expectations are unclear. Violations of this policy will be addressed under the college’s academic integrity procedures, which may include disciplinary action. This policy is intended to promote fairness, transparency, and trust in the academic community while allowing students to enagage with emerging technologies responsibly. 

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

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 Instruction and Student Development. 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 Instruction and Student Development, 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. 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 Instruction and Student Development 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 Instruction and Student Development. 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. The “I” grade is to be used only for verifiable unavoidable reasons that a student is unable to complete a course within the normal course time. To be eligible to receive an “I” grade, the student must (1) have satisfactorily completed more than 60% of the course requirements and attendance and (2) must request the faculty member to assign the “I” grade and indicate why it is warranted. The faculty member has the discretion to decide whether the “I” grade will be awarded, and since the “incomplete” extends enrollment in a course, consultation between the faculty member and the student is required. 
• 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 and scholarship information
• 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 and WCC West.

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 Smyth 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.

WCC Student Code of Conduct

Introduction

This Student Code of Conduct outlines the expectations of students enrolled at Wytheville Community College. Students are subject to college jurisdiction, meaning it is expected that the Conduct Code be maintained while a student at the college. By enrolling, students agree to adhere to college policies and contribute to a respectful academic environment. The college reserves the right to take disciplinary action against any student whose conduct, in the opinion of college representatives, adversely affects the college’s pursuit of its educational objectives. Students who are involved in the conduct process should expect any sanctions imposed to be enforced at all college campus and off-site locations. 

The Code of Conduct shall apply both to the conduct of individual students as well as student organizations. Each recognized student organization’s activities and the activities of its members will not violate federal, state, or local law; or the college’s Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct applies to all student activities within the college, VCCS, or their foundations’ programs or activities wherever located. The Code of Conduct 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 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. The Code of Conduct also applies to acts of misconduct or criminal acts that are not committed on college property if the acts arise from college activities that are being conducted off the college’s campuses, or if the conduct undermines the security of the college community or the integrity of the educational process or poses a serious threat to self or others.

Definitions

As used in this Code of Conduct, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

Academic Dishonesty – This is when a student intentionally engages in deceptive conduct to gain an unfair advantage in his/her academic work.

Advisor – Any one person designated by the accused student to support the student through the conduct process. This person can include, but is not limited to a parent, friend, college faculty or staff member, or attorney (at the student’s own expense).

  2. Bomb Threat/Threats of Mass Violence: Students who make a threat of mass violence against college property and people on it, or encourage, incite, entice, or solicit any person to commit such a threat, shall be disciplined by the college and recommended for criminal prosecution to the full extent of the law. See https://wcc.vccs.edu/violence-prevention-policy-title-ix for additional details.

  3. Cheating: This is a form of academic dishonesty. Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids in any academic exercise. This includes using another person’s work and then submitting as one’s own work; allowing another to take an examination in one’s name; submitting identical or similar papers in more than one course without obtaining permission from the instructors of all the courses involved. See https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#academic-and-computer-integrity-policies.

  4. College Misrepresentation: Unauthorized use of the college’s name, logo, and/or other official college graphics.

  5. Copyright Infringement: Conduct or activities that violate federal copyright laws including, but not limited to, written or electronic media.

  6. Data Misrepresentation: This is a form of academic dishonesty. Fabricating data; deliberately presenting assignment data that were not gathered in accordance with assigned guidelines or are deliberately fabricated; or providing an inaccurate account of the method by which the data were gathered and generated. See https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#academic-and-computer-integrity-policies.

  7. Destruction of Property: Attempted or actual damage to property of the college or personal property of another, on or off campus, without permission.

  8. Dishonesty: Furnishing false information to any college official, faculty member, office, or fellow student including, forgery, lying, or deception.

  9. 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.
3. Substantially unmanageable behavior inside or outside of the classroom or an administrative office, that interferes with teaching, research, administration, or other college or college-authorized activities, or infringes on the rights of others. This includes disruptive behavior at student activities or during college-sponsored trips.

 10. Emergency Safety: Violations of campus or college emergency regulations, such as failing to comply with emergency evacuation procedures.

 11. Encampment: 

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

       i.  “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.”

      ii.   “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.

     iii.   Only tents approved in advance pursuant to the college Facility Use Rules shall be permitted. No Camping Tents shall be permitted at any time. All tents of any type must be removed no later than 11:00 p.m.

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

       i.  “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.

      ii.  “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 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.

  c. 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.

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

 12. Facilitating Academic Dishonesty: This is a form of academic dishonesty. Helping or attempting to help another commit an act of academic dishonesty or seeking unauthorized answers for assignments, quizzes, or tests. See  https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#academic-and-computer-integrity-policies.

 13. Failure to Comply: Failure to obey the directions of authorized college officials given in the performance of his/her duties, including, but not limited to, failure to identify oneself when requested to do so; failure to comply with the terms of a disciplinary sanction; refusal to vacate a college facility when directed to do so.

 14. Falsifying Documentation: Alteration or misuse of any college document or record. This includes any instrument of identification.

 15. Fire Setting: Unauthorized setting of fires, or attempt to do so, on college property.

 16. Gambling: An organized opportunity for others to bet or risk something of value (like money) based on a chance outcome that is out of his/her control or influence with the understanding that they will either gain increased value or lose his/her original value determined by the specific outcome is prohibited on campus without proper approval. Examples include, but are not limited to, holding a raffle or lottery on campus or at college functions without permission or approval.

 17. Harassment: Defined as severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive speech or actions that undermine equal access to educational benefits or opportunities.

 18. Hazing: “Hazing” means to recklessly or intentionally endanger the health or safety of a student or students or to inflict bodily injury on a student or students in connection with or for the purpose of initiation, admission into or affiliation with or as a condition for continued membership in a club, organization, association, fraternity, sorority, or student body regardless of whether the student or students so endangered or injured participated voluntarily in the relevant activity. Under Virginia law, hazing that causes bodily injury is a criminal act, whereby a person convicted is guilty of Class 1 misdemeanor. Instances of hazing which cause bodily injury shall be adjudicated under this policy, and reported to the applicable Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office in compliance with Virginia Code § 18.2-56.

 19. Indecent Conduct: Lewd or obscene conduct, including but not limited to public urination, performing sexual acts in public, or surreptitiously taking pictures or videos of individuals in private areas like locker rooms or restrooms. This also includes unauthorized recording or sharing video, audio, or photograph of any person(s) without his/her consent in any place where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy.

 20. Interference with Safety Equipment/Personnel: Tampering with or unauthorized use of or interference with fire or emergency equipment (including but not limited to fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and other apparatus) and interference with the actions of emergency personnel.

 21. Littering: Improperly disposing of trash of any kind. This includes leaving, throwing, or dropping trash anywhere other than in containers designated for trash disposal. This also includes dumping substances or objects into bodies of water.

 22. Masking to Conceal Identity: 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 a Campus Police or Security Officer or otherwise establish the individual’s identity to the satisfaction of the Campus Police Officer.

 23. Minors on Campus: Bringing a minor on campus in violation of college policies is prohibited conduct. While the college community generally welcomes students and their families to our campuses, safety and other operational goals require that minors who are not enrolled in courses or participating in college-sponsored events or activities always remain under the direct supervision of a responsible adult or family member.

 24. Parking: Students are expected to comply with college parking regulations. Parking spaces for persons with disabilities and visitors’ areas are reserved for those purposes. Vehicles improperly parked in those areas may be ticketed or towed at the owner’s expense. Repeated offenses of the college’s parking policies may result in disciplinary action under this Code.

 25. Plagiarism: This is a form of academic dishonesty. Presenting as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source without proper citation. This may include unauthorized use of AI tools.  https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#academic-and-computer-integrity-policies.

 26. Possession/Distribution/Consumption of Alcohol and Marijuana: Use of alcoholic beverages or marijuana products without a college-granted use permit as detailed under college facility policies, including the purchase, serving, consumption, possession, or sale on college property or at college-sponsored events; being under the influence of alcohol or marijuana on college property or at college-sponsored events in violation of the WCC’s Drug-Free Learning Environment Policy.   https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#drug-free-learning-environment.

 27. Posession/Distribution/Consumption of Illegal Drugs or Controlled Substances: Possessing, using, selling, manufacturing, distributing, or being under the influence of controlled substances while on campus or at college-sponsored events, in violation of the https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#drug-free-learning-environment.

 28. Retaliation: Engaging in intimidation, threats, coercion, harassment, discrimination, or other adverse action against any other person for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege provided under a policy, or because the person has made a report or filed a formal complaint, testified, assisted, or participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation or process afforded under policy.  Action is generally deemed adverse if it would deter a reasonable person in the same circumstance from opposing practices prohibited by a policy.

 29. Riot: Participating in or inciting a violent disturbance of the peace in a crowd or disorder in an assembly.

 30. Sexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation occurs when a person takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of other sexual harassment offenses. Examples of sexual exploitation include prostituting another person; non-consensual video or audio-taping of otherwise consensual sexual activity; going beyond the boundaries of consent (such as letting your friends hide in the closet to watch you having consensual sex), and knowingly transmitting HIV or another sexually transmitted disease to another person.

 31. Sexual Harassment: Engaging in conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:

1. Quid Pro Quo: The submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for educational or employment decisions affecting the student or employee either explicitly or implicitly;
2. Hostile Environment: Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to an education program or activity of the college, including a student’s educational experience or an employee’s work performance; and
3. Clery Act/VAWA Offenses: Sexual assault /sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, as defined in this policy.

 32. Sexual Misconduct: Engaging in Sexual Harassment as defined herein, that falls outside of the jurisdiction for a formal complaint and the processes set forth in the Sexual Harassment Policy pursuant to Title IX. See Violence Prevention Policy (Title IX) | Wytheville Community College.

 33. Stalking: Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for his/her safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress. Such conduct can occur in person or online, but the conduct must involve an education program or activity of the college. See Violence Prevention Policy (Title IX) | Wytheville Community College.

 34. Threatening or Intimidating Behavior: Any words or actions that express, imply, or encourage an actual threat to the safety or well-being of others or college property. This includes fighting words that inherently are likely to provoke a violent reaction.

 35. Theft: Stealing or possessing unauthorized material, including taking property belonging to another person or to the college without authorization or through unlawful means.

 36. Tobacco/Smoking Violation: Violating college policy by smoking, vaping, using a hookah, or consuming any type of tobacco product in any college facility or outside of designated areas, or within 25 feet of any college building.

 37. Unapproved Animals: Unapproved animals, including pets, are not permitted in college buildings or at college-sponsored activities on or off campus unless stated otherwise. This prohibition does not apply to Service Animals that support people with disabilities.

 38. Unauthorized Use of Electronic Devices: Violating established classroom or college policy by unauthorized use of electronic devices in the academic setting. 

 39. Unauthorized Use of Facilities, Property, or Resources: Unauthorized entry, use, or occupation of college buildings or facilities.

 40. Unprofessional or Inappropriate Behavior within a Program-Specific Setting, Clinical Environment, or Internship Experience: Conduct that is non-compliant with standards and expectations set forth in academic programming handbooks in a program in which the student is participating. This includes the professional or accreditation standards identified in the program handbook and/or a violation of clinical or other affiliated site expectations or guidelines as part of the program curriculum.

 41. Violation of IT Security Policies: Violating the college’s online security policy (e.g., IT security and acceptable use policies). See https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#academic-and-computer-integrity-policies.

 42. Violations of Laws, regulations, and Ordinances: 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 Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, 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.

 43. Weapons Violation: Possession or carrying of any weapon by any person, except a police officer, is prohibited on college property in academic buildings, administrative office buildings, student centers, child care centers, dining facilities and places of like kind where people congregate, or while attending any sporting, entertainment, or educational events. Entry upon the aforementioned college property in violation of this prohibition is expressly forbidden. A student in violation of this prohibition will be asked to remove the weapon immediately and may be subject to a referral for further discipline under this Policy. For additional definitions, including what constitutes a “weapon” for purposes of this policy, refer to the [insert link to College Weapons Policy or link to VA Weapons Regulation - https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title8/agency95/chapter10/section10/].

Disciplinary Procedures

All students are afforded the right to due process for any violation. This process is defined below:

1. Incident Report is Submitted
   1. Any academic or administrative official, faculty member, student, or member of the public may file a complaint against any student for misconduct. Reports can be submitted to complaints@wcc.vccs.edu. The WCC Complaint form can be located in the College Catalog and Student Handbook https://catalog.wcc.vccs.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=358#grievance-procedure-for-students.
   2. Any administrator, college official, faculty member, or student wishing to file complaints against a college employee must follow a separate protocol as outlined in the human resource policy manual or the formal complaint procedure. The complaint procedure is available at DHRM at https://www.dhrm.virginia.gov/employment-dispute-resolution/grievance or https://go.boarddocs.com/va/vccs/Board.nsf/Public#  Section 3.13-Alternative Dispute Resolution and Grievance Procedures.
   3. If the alleged violation involves allegations of Sexual Harassment as defined herein, the report must be referred to the Title IX Coordinator for evaluation under the college’s Policy on Sexual Harassment (VCCS Appendix I to Section 6.0, as adopted by the college). The Violence Prevention Policy (Title IX) | Wytheville Community College takes precedence for any conduct falling within its jurisdiction.
      1. If the Title IX Coordinator determines that the conduct as alleged does not fall under that policy, then the Coordinator will refer the matter back to the Student Conduct Officer to be addressed as described herein.
      2. If the Title IX Coordinator determines that the conduct as alleged does fall under that policy, the referral to the Title IX Coordinator should be documented. The alleged violation will be adjudicated through Title IX procedures and not through the Conduct Code described herein.
   4.  If the Student Conduct Officer believes that the alleged conduct presents an immediate danger to the community, the report will be immediately referred to the WCC Threat Assessment Team.
      1. The Student Conduct Officer may also proceed with interim actions afforded under this policy and concurrently proceed with the processes described herein after the referral to TAT is made.
      2. The Student Conduct Officer may take additional actions after/if receiving a recommendation from TAT.

    2.  If the alleged violation involves academic dishonesty, the case will be adjudicated through the college’s Academic Dishonesty Policy and Procedures as found in Student Handbook - Wytheville Community College - Modern Campus Catalog™

    3. Review of the Report

        a. When the Student Conduct Officer receives a formal complaint that a student has allegedly violated the Conduct Code, the Student Conduct Officer shall investigate the alleged violation. After completing the preliminary investigation, the Student Conduct Officer will either:

                i. Dismiss the allegation as unfounded, or

               ii. Issue a notice of incident and schedule an informal hearing between the student and the Student Conduct Officer to discuss the charges.

    4. Informal Hearing

        a.  If the Student Conduct Officer determines an informal hearing is required as described in Provision 2, a notice of incident and informal hearing meeting request will be sent to the student vial mail and/or college-provided email address contained in the college record.

               i. The notice of incident will inform the student of the alleged violation of the student code.

              ii. The notice will instruct the student to respond within five (5) business days from the date of the correspondence to arrange an informal hearing.

             iii.  An informal hearing time will be set after consultation with all parties involved but must occur within fourteen (14) business days of the date the notice of incident was sent to the student.

             iv.  If the student fails to respond or appear, the Student Conduct Officer may not make an inference of responsibility due to the student failing to respond or appear. The Student Conduct Officer may still find the student responsible, if supported by the weight of the evidence obtained, and impose sanctions.

     b.  During the informal hearing, the Student Conduct Officer will advise students of allegation(s) and explain the student conduct process and clarify student’s rights and responsibilities. The student may present his/her case and any mitigating circumstances. Every effort will be made to resolve the matter by mutual agreement.

     c.  After the informal hearing, the Student Conduct Officer will take one of the courses of action listed in the Provision 4, “Disposition of a Violation”.

 5.  Disposition of a Violation As a result of the informal hearing, the Student Conduct Officer may selesct one of the following (4a, 4b, or 4c) as a course of action, depending on the circumstances:

     a.  Proceed administratively if it is determined that the facts of the alleged violation are not in dispute by the student.

            i.  When the facts of the alleged violation are not in dispute, the Student Conduct Officer may administratively dispose of any violation.

           ii.  In administratively disposing of a violation, the Student Conduct Officer may impose any disciplinary action authorized under the section entitled “Sanctions.” Mitigating circumstances presented by the student is sufficient to affect the final disposition is within the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer.

          iii.  The Student Conduct Officer will prepare a decision letter within five (5) business days and forward a copy to the student and to other appropriate administrative personnel.

                1. The decision letter will set forth both the finding and the rationale in support of the finding.

                2. The decision letter will outline any sactions imposed.

                3. The decision letter will become part of the student’s conduct record.

                4. The decision letter will include information on the appeal process.

                5. In cases of suspension or dismissal, the complaint must also be notified of the outcome in compliance with Code of Virginia § 23.1-412.

    b.  Proceed administratively if it is determined that the facts of the alleged violation are in dispute and/or must be further investigated.

            i.  When the facts of the alleged violation are in dispute, the Student Conduct Officer may elect to gather additional information concerning the allegation and then choose to administratively dispose of the violation or refer the case to a formal conduct hearing.

           ii.  If the Student Conduct Officer elects to gather more information, follow-up with the accused student must occur within ten (10) business days of the informal hearing.

          iii.  If the Student Conduct Officer, upon initial review of the report in Provision 2 above, determines that the alleged violation, if founded, could result in a sanction of suspension or dismissal from the college or program and the student disputes the facts of the alleged violation, the Student Conduct Officer must refer the case to a Conduct Hearing Committee and proceed under 4c. The Student Conduct Officer may elect to defer to the Conduct Hearing Committee as described in 4c at any time prior to rendering a determination if facts discovered during the investigation, in the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer, warrant review by the Conduct Committee.

          iv.  In administratively disposing of the violation where the facts are in dispute, the Student Conduct Officer will:

              1.  Make a finding of responsible or not responsible.

              2.  If the student is found responsible, the Student Conduct Officer will impose disciplinary measures authorized under the section entitled “Sanctions.” Mitigating circumstances presented by the student shall be considered. Whether the mitigation offered by the student is sufficient to affect the final disposition is within the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer.

              3.  Prepare a decision letter and forward a copy to the student and to other appropriate administrative personnel.

                   a.  The decision letter will set forth both the finding and rationale in support of the finding.

                   b.  The decision letter will outline any sanctions imposed.

                   c.  The decision letter will become part of the student’s conduct record.

                   d.  The decision letter will include information on the appeal process.

  c.  Refer the case to a formal conduct hearing.

            i.  When the Student Conduct Officer decides 4a and 4b do not apply and decides to refer the case directly to a conduct hearing, the steps outlined in Provision 5 “Formal Conduct Hearing” will be followed.

           ii.  The Student Conduct Officer will prepare a formal complaint based on the allegation along with a list of witnesses and documentary evidence supporting the allegations.

6. Formal Conduct Hearing

  a. The conduct hearing committee will be selected by the Student Conduct Officer.

           i.   The committee shall consist of three (3) members composed of a combination of staff and faculty. All members must be trained in the conduct process. The Student Conduct Officer should consider any possible conflicts of interest when the committee members are chosen. To the extent possible, the committee should be composed of individuals uninvolved in the allegation and without prior knowledge of it.

          ii.   The names of the hearing committee members shall be provided to the student at the time of selection. The student may object to a committee member on the basis of bias or other good cause shown and request that another person be chosen from the list in that same category. One student-requested substitution, with written justification, is permitted.

         iii.   A committee member who is selected for the hearing may request that another person be chosen if the selected member believes he/she cannot provide a fair judgment in the matter. The objecting committee member must provide a written justification to the Student Conduct Officer in support of removal. The removal of the proposed committee member is at the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer.

  b. The conduct hearing committee will set the date, time, and place for the hearing.

          i.  The Student Conduct Officer will notify the student by email, mail, or by hand delivery of information pertaining to the date, time, and place of the hearing. The notice of the hearing will be sent within five (5) business days following confirmation of the hearing committee membership.

         ii.  The hearing will take place within ten (10) business days of the selection of the conduct hearing committee, unless an extension is mutually agreed upon between the student and the college.

        iii.  The Student Conduct Officer will have the discretion to alter the arrangements of the hearing for good cause.

 c.  The conduct hearing committee will hold the hearing as scheduled and determine a ruling whether or not the student is present, provided the committee has confirmation that the student received actual notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing.

 d.  The student alleged to have violated the Conduct Code has the right to be accompanied by an advisor, who may come from within or outside the college. The participation of the advisor shall be restricted to advising the accused only. The advisor shall not participate in the actual proceedings of the hearing, to include discussion with the Student Conduct Officer or examination of the witnesses. The advisor shall be required to sign a confidentiality agreement as a condition of participation.

 e.  The committee will presume a student is not responsible for the alleged violation unless and until the facts and information presented support a decision to the contrary. A student will be found in violation when the preponderance of the evidence (over 50%) indicates that the student has violated the Conduct Code.

 f.   The committee will proceed as follows during the hearing:

          i.  The Student Conduct Officer reads the complaint.

         ii.  The Student Conduct Officer presents the college’s case. Any person giving testimony may be questioned, at the completion of the witness’s testimony, by the student. The Student Conduct Officer has the right to ask questions of the witness at any time and to recall witnesses at his/her discretion.

        iii.  The student presents his/her defense and any mitigating circumstances. The committee shall not require the student to testify, nor shall the committee prevent the student from testifying. Any person giving testimony on behalf of the student may also be questioned by the Student Conduct Officer.

        iv.  The Student Conduct Officer and the student may present rebuttal evidence and argument.

         v.  Committee members may freely question witnesses at any time.

        vi.  In a closed meeting, the conduct hearing committee will discuss the case and vote whether or not there has been a violation of the Conduct Code. If a majority of the committee (at least 2 out of 3 voting members) find the student violated the Conduct Code.

       vii.  The committee will select and recommend an appropriate sanction from the list in the section entitled “Sanctions”. Determination of the sanction must be approved by a majority of the committee members. The committee must also provide a rationale for the recommended sanction.

       viii. The committee will notify the Student Conduct Officer of the committee’s decision and its recommended sanction in writing, if any, within 24 hours of the conclusion of the hearing.

 g.  The Student Conduct Officer has the discretion to accept the hearing committee’s recommended sanctions or impose another sanction supported by the evidence. After the Student Conduct Officer makes the final determination on any sanctions, the officer will then prepare a decision letter and forward a copy to the student, the hearing committee, and other appropriate college personnel within five (5) business days of the conclusion of the hearing.

           i.  The decision letter will set forth both the finding and rationale in support of the finding.

          ii.  The decision letter will outline any sanctions imposed (if a student is found responsible).

         iii.  The decision letter will become part of the student’s conduct record.

         iv.  The decision letter will include information on the appeal process (if a student is found responsible).

          v.  This notification will be sent via the student’s college-provided email account and/or physical mail to the student.

         vi.  New information that becomes available after the conclusion of the hearing but prior to the final decision of the Student Conduct Officer may, at the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer, be referred to the conduct hearing committee for reconsideration of the case.

        vii.  In cases of suspension or dismissal, the complainant must also be notified of the outcome in compliance with the Code of Virginia § 23.1-412.

 h.  Hearing Records

           i.  All relevant evidence will be given to the committee during the hearing and be made part of the hearing record.

           ii. The hearing record will also include a copy of the notice of the hearing that was provided to the student.

          iii. The hearing record will be forwarded to the Student Conduct Officer and securely maintained.

Sanctions

Violations of the Conduct Code can result in one or more of the following sanctions as deemed appropriate. All sanctions become part of the student’s conduct record. The list of sanctions is not a progression. 

1. Disciplinary Warning: A written warning to a student that his/her conduct violated the Conduct Code, and that further misconduct will result in more severe disciplinary action. Disciplinary warning may include but not limited to a behavior agreement or contract.
2. Restitution: Compensation for damages or losses caused.
3. Loss of Privileges: Exclusion from college extracurricular activities, specified college facilities, or other restriction of movements while at the institution for a period of time not to exceed one year. The student may still attend academic classes.
4. Program Dismissal: Administrative withdrawal from an academic program due to violation of the program’s specific conduct standards, which may include violations of this Conduct Code or other program specific policies as set forth in its Handbook. Effects and eligibility of a program dismissal are set forth in the specific program’s policies. Tuition refunds for dismissed students are governed by [Name or Link to College’s Refund Policy] and are not guaranteed.
5. Disciplinary Probation: A specified period of time which is intended to foster reflection, responsibility, and improved decision making. During this period, the student is not in good standing with the college and may be barred from participating in certain college activities. Future violations of the code of conduct while a student is on disciplinary probation may result in additional and more severe sanctions, including suspension or dismissal.
6. Suspension: A specific period of time, which may extend for up to two calendar years, during which a student is not permitted to participate or enroll in college classes. A student assigned this sanction will be administratively withdrawn from all enrolled classes upon the expiration of the appeal period. Tuition refunds for suspended students are governed by [Name of or Link to College’s Refund Policy] and are not guaranteed.
7. Dismissal: A permanent separation of a student from the college which is assigned to the most serious conduct cases. Depending on the type of violation, an Academic or Behavioral dismissal may be assigned. Behavioral dismissals are administered under the disciplinary procedures described in the section entitled “Disciplinary Procedures”. For more information on academic dismissals, see Student Handbook - Wytheville Community College - Modern Campus Catalog™ .  Either type of dismissal is permanently notated on a student’s transcript. A student assigned this sanction will be administratively withdrawn from all classes upon the expiration of the appeal period. Tuition refunds for dismissed students are governed by [Name of or Link to College’s Refund Policy] and are not guaranteed.
8. Community Service: Service-learning hours or volunteer work.
9. Character Development: Required attendance at an educational workshop, research and writing assignments, or participation in a mentorship program.
10. Other Sanctions: Including, but not limited to, no contact orders or removal from a class.

Appeal

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.

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

To ensure fairness and due process for students, WCC has established an appeal policy. Students are encouraged to maintain open communication with faculty, counselors, and others who assist them in achieving educational goals. Differences that may arise are best resolved through direct and positive communication with the individual(s) involved. (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 should first discuss his or her concern directly with the other party as soon as possible. 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.
2. The student will complete the Student Grievance Form http://wcc.vccs.edu/formal_grievance_form to begin the process.  This form will be sent to the appropriate Dean or Supervisor. The Dean or Supervisor will contact the student to discuss the complaint (via in-person, phone, email, or zoom) and has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and the college employee involved. The student may continue the grievance process by submitting an appeal to the Vice President of Instruction and Student Development within five (5) working days of the Dean’s decision. This notification must be submitted by email. 
3. The student will meet with the Vice President of Instruction and Student Development in a personal conference (via in-person or zoom). 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. This notification must be submitted by email.
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.

*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 extention of deadlines must be approved by the Dean od Student Success and Academic Development. Also, college workdays are Monday-Friday, except for approved state holidays and offical college closures.

Students submitting a grade appeal at the end of the semester may experience delays due to holiday closures. Every effort will be made to expedite this process. If the subsequent term commences prior to the resolution of the appeal, the student will be permitted to attend subsequent classes until a final decision is reached.

Judical Board

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

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 fifteen (15) 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. Program heads in selective health programs may be involved in initial discussions with the student and faculty memeber. However, if a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, the student will proceed to step two. 
2. The student will complete the Student Grievance Form http://wcc.vccs.edu/formal_grievance_form to begin the process. This form will be sent to the appropriate Dean. The Dean will contact the student to discuss the complaint (via in-person, phone, email or soom) and has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and the college employee involved. The student may continue the grievance process by submitting an appeal to the Vice President of Instruction and Student Devleopment within five (5) working days of the Dean’s decision. This notification must be submitted by email.
3. The student will meet with the Vice President of Instruction and Student Development in a personal conference (via in-person or zoom). The Vice President of Instruction and Student Development has five (5) working days, after this meeting, to render his/her decision regarding the matter to the student and/or the collge 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. This notification must be submitted by email.
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 President. 
5. 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 state holidays and offical college closures.

Students submitting a grade appeal at the end of a semester may experience delays due to holiday closures. Every effort will be made to expedite this process. If the subsequent term commences prior to the resolution of the appeal, the student will be permitted to attend subsequent classes until a final decision is reached.

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.

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 organizations, 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.

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.

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

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.