2007-2008 Student Handbook Administrative Information And Policies Return to Table of Contents OCC Board of Trustees Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders Obligation To Know Ocean County College students have the responsibility for being fully aware of college policies and regulations affecting students. The college reserves the right to make revisions to these policies and procedures at any point in time in between publication of the student handbook. In addition to this handbook, students should consult the college catalog and the Ocean County College policy book (a copy is kept in the offices of the Vice President of Student Affairs) for current policies and practices of the college. Harassment Policy Statement Ocean County College will not tolerate any unwanted or unwelcome attention, either verbal, nonverbal or physical, as a result of the following: Sex Marital Status Color National Origin Ancestry Vietnam-Era Veteran Disability Sexual Orientation Race Creed Age Any student who believes he or she has been subject to harassment treatment may file a complaint through the Vice President of Student Affairs (for student complainants) or the Human Resources Office (for employee complainants). Affirmative Action Policy Statement Ocean County College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/ADA institution and employer dedicated to equality of opportunity for all persons in all areas of its operations. The college is committed to nondiscrimination and has in effect an Affirmative Action Program, including compliance with provision of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The Affirmative Action Program at Ocean County College has been assigned to the Department of Human Resources and the Director of Human Resources has been designated College Compliance Officer. The Director of Human Resources is located on the ground floor of the Library Building. While the Director of Human Resources will provide college-wide supervision over Affirmative Action, the Vice President of Student Affairs will be primarily responsible for Affirmative Action compliance in all matters pertaining to students and student life. The Vice President of Student Affairs is located on the first floor of the Administration Building. The Affirmative Action Program and related policy statements are available for review by any interested person during regular office hours in the Department of Human Resources located on the ground floor of the Administration Building. Students With Disabilities Policy The Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provide equal access to all academic programs and services to students with disabilities. Students who are within the protected population of ADA are expected to identify their specific needs to appropriate college officials. Those students with disabilities may contact Disability Services at (732) 255-0456 (Voice) or (732) 255-0424 (TTY). Activity Period Twice each week, the college sets aside two specific activity periods during which classes are not scheduled. These free hours are 3:10 p.m. to 4:25 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Students are encouraged to use these time periods to participate in the varied activities that are available through campus clubs and organizations and the Office of Student Life. ADA Self-identification See inside front cover, students with Disabilities Policy. Alcoholic Beverages The use or possession of liquor on the college campus is strictly forbidden. Use of liquor by students at off-campus college functions shall be in strict and literal accordance with local and state regulations. ATM Machine There is an ATM machine located in the lobby of the College Center. Bicycles In the interest of safety, bicycles are prohibited on the campus mall. Bus Schedules Limited public transportation to OCC is available through NJ Transit. Call their toll-free number (1-800-772-2222) for information and schedules. A limited supply of schedules are located in College Center Lobby and in hallway outside of Admissions Office. Children on Campus Children under the age of 18 who are not registered students of OCC are allowed on campus property only under the immediate supervision of a parent, guardian, or registered student, or while participating in a scheduled program or event. Children are never to be left unsupervised and are prohibited from being left unattended in college buildings or on college grounds. On an emergency basis only, it is the prerogative of faculty to permit children of enrolled students admission to regular classes; however, admission of children to scientific laboratory type settings is prohibited for safety reasons. College Seal Permission to use the college seal must be obtained from the VP College Advancement. College/Student Fee All students pay a college/student fee of $16.00 per credit hour. The fee is payable when the bill is due and represents partial subsidy of the following services: College Budget Admissions and Records Counseling Financial Aid Intercollegiate Athletics Student Life Administration Operations Health Service Office Transfer & Placement Parking Student Life Fund Clubs and Organizations College Center Fund Use of College Name The name of Ocean County College shall be used only for official operations and activities as approved by the Board of Trustees, and cannot be used for commercial purposes or for personal gain. Tuition Payment Plan Payment to OCC for tuition and fees is normally required to be paid in full at the time of registration. However, we recognize that making payment in full before the semester begins can cause an economic hardship for many students. To remedy this situation, we provide the OCC Tuition Payment Plan (TPP). The OCC Tuition Payment Plan offers a financial planning option that allows you a line of credit to pay tuition and fees in installments. There are no interest or finance charges, although there is a $50 contract fee for full-time students and $30 contract fee for part-time students to sign up for the program and there are penalty fees for missed or late payments. To participate, you must be registered for six or more credit hours in the fifteen week Fall or Spring semesters. Register for classes and sign up for the payment plan early to spread your costs out over the maximum number of installments. Brochures on the payment plan can be obtained from the following offices: Cashiers, Admissions, Advising and Counseling, Financial Aid, and Student Life. Demonstrations 1. The philosophy of Ocean County College is to encourage freedom in expression of ideas presented in a scholarly and law-abiding manner. 2. Demonstrations that interfere with the daily operations of Ocean County College and/or cause personal injury to individuals or damage to property will not be tolerated on campus. The normal penalty for students involved in the planning or implementation of such a demonstration will be suspension from Ocean County College and prosecution to the fullest extent of civil law. 3. The college permits rallies or demonstrations when they are conducted in accordance with the following conditions: a. That they are not designed to and do not interfere with the daily operations of Ocean County College. b. That they are not designed to and do not cause personal injury to individuals or damage to property. c. That they are limited to exterior areas (sidewalks, lawns); no activity will be permitted inside college buildings or in doorways leading to buildings. There shall be no interference with those entering or exiting any buildings. Speaking to other persons shall be conducted so as not to interfere with their easy passage. d. That the intention to hold a demonstration and the names of all its participants must be filed in the Vice President of Student Affairs' office at least 48 hours in advance of the event. The statement of intention must include: date, time, location, purpose, approximate number expected to participate, type of activity involved (i.e., picketing, distributing leaflets, etc.) and the names of three persons responsible for maintaining reasonable order. e. Literature may be posted on authorized bulletin boards only. Nothing may be posted on the building exteriors or elsewhere on campus. Student “coordinators” will be present to assure proper compliance with all rules and regulations. f. Any student using physical force on another individual will be immediately suspended. g. Off-campus picketing is subject to local laws and municipal regulations. 4. Since the provisions for acceptable rallies and demonstrations on the OCC campus have been stated, it should be clear to all students that the right to free expression does not in itself provide unlimited freedom in choosing the form and manner of expression. It is completely unacceptable when the form or manner of expression actually disrupts the normal operation of the college, causes property damage or bodily harm or threatens to do so. Therefore, the following procedures will normally take place when an unacceptable demonstration occurs. a. Those engaged in an unacceptable demonstration will be directly notified by the Vice President of Student Affairs as soon as possible after the incident occurs that this activity is out of order and against the policies and regulations of the college and that they must cease such illegal activity immediately. b. If those so ordered refuse to comply, the local police will be requested to take such action as necessary to enforce compliance. When local police are requested to come to the campus to enforce compliance with a lawful order, the college may be closed and the students required to leave the campus. The college shall be reopened for normal operation at a convenient time after order has been restored. Those students identified as participants in an unacceptable demonstration against whom it is necessary to direct forcible compliance will be immediately suspended from the college and subject to such police prosecution as their actions may warrant under the laws. c. Nothing in the aforementioned policy shall restrict the President from directing such other action as necessary to meet a specific situation or circumstance. Discipline Ocean County College reserves the right to suspend, expel or take other corrective or disciplinary action against students for behavior reported to the Dean of Special Services that contributes or results in: a) danger to the safety and well-being of oneself and/or others b) a breach of college rules and regulations as set forth in this policy and in the most current Student Handbook and College Catalog c) a disruption of any college curriculum or cocurricular program. Specific corrective disciplinary action shall be determined by the Dean of Special Services, utilizing the procedures and sanctions cited in the Student/Faculty Judiciary Council in accordance with its constitution. These sanctions include: verbal or written reprimand, restitution of costs, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion. The following is a specific, although not exhaustive, list of disruptive behaviors as defined and/or qualified by current statutes and case law that may result in the imposition of disciplinary action. 1. Persistent, repeated or gross acts of willful disobedience or defiance toward college personnel. 2. Assault, battery, or any other form of physical or sexual abuse of a student or college employee. 3. Verbal abuse of a student or college employee. 4. Any conduct that threatens the health or safety of another individual (including any such action that takes place at an event sponsored or supervised by the college). 5. Theft or damage to the property of the college, an employee or another student. 6. Interference with the normal operations of the college (e.g., disruption of teaching and administrative functions, disciplinary procedures, pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or other college activities, including its public service functions). 7. Use of personal portable sound amplification equipment (e.g., radios and tape players) in a manner that disturbs the privacy of other individuals and/or the instructional program of the college 8. Unauthorized entry into, or use of, college facilities. 9. Forgery, falsification, alteration or misuse of college documents, records, or identification. 10. Dishonesty such as cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information to the college and its officials. 11. Disorderly, lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct. 12. Extortion. 13. Conduct disruptive to any activity on college property or at any college sponsored or supervised function. 14. The use, possession, sale or distribution of narcotics or other dangerous illegal drugs on college property or at any function sponsored or supervised by the college. 15. Possession or use of alcoholic beverages on college property or at any function sponsored or supervised by the college. 16. Illegal possession or use of firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or other weapons on college property or at college sponsored activities. 17. Smoking in classrooms or other unauthorized campus areas. 18. Failure to satisfy college financial obligations. 19. Failure to comply with directions of college officials, faculty, staff, or campus security officers who are acting in performance of his/her duties. 20. Failure to identify oneself upon the request of a college official acting in the performance of his/her duties. 21. Gambling. 22. Sexual harassment or sexual and racial discrimination. 23. Theft or other abuse of computer time, including but not limited to: a. Unauthorized entry into a file to use, read, or change the contents or for any other purpose. b. Unauthorized transfer of a file. c. Unauthorized use of another individual's identification and password. d. Use of computing facilities to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member, or college official. e. Use of computing facilities to send obscene or abusive messages. f. Use of computing facilities to interfere with normal operation of the college computing system. 24. Hazing, defined as an act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or which destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group or organization. 25. Abuse of the campus judicial system, including but not limited to: a. Failure to obey the summons of a judicial body or college official. b. Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before a judicial body. c. Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a judicial proceeding. d. Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a judicial body prior to and/or during the course of the judicial proceeding. e. Harassment (verbal or physical) and/or intimidation of a member of a judicial body prior to, during, and/or after a judicial proceeding. f. Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the student code. g. Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the judicial system. 26. Violation of other applicable federal, state and local laws as such violations impact on campus personnel, the curricular or co-curricular programs and other college rules and regulations not cited above. Dress Standard Dress and personal appearance should be in good taste, consonant with an adult, professional atmosphere and should reflect the student's respect for her/himself and for the college. Shoes and shirts must be worn in every campus building. Drug Policy The illegal use, possession or sale of drugs is a violation of the law and existing policy of Ocean County College. The college will, therefore, make every effort to uphold the law and render assistance and support to law enforcement agencies pursuing their objectives while at the same time rendering assistance to students when needed or necessary. In light of the foregoing statement, Ocean County College's procedure for implementing its policy is as follows: 1. Faculty members, employees and students are asked to report or submit to the Vice President of Student Affairs any knowledge or evidence directly or indirectly relating to use, possession or sale of drugs anywhere on the college campus or any time during a college connected activity. 2. Information given to a counselor during the privacy of a counseling session will not be divulged by the counselor unless, in the judgment of the counselor, there exists a clear and imminent danger of life, limb and property. 3. The Vice President of Student Affairs shall submit to the College President information regarding the use, possession or sale of drugs on the college campus or during any college connected activity and will recommend the appropriate course of action to be followed. 4. Any student found guilty by the Vice President of Student Affairs or the Student-Faculty Judiciary Council of the illegal use or possession of drugs may be suspended from the college. Return to the college will be considered on an individual basis and in no case will a person be reinstated as a student unless the college administration is satisfied that rehabilitation has taken place. 5. Any student found guilty of the illegal sale of drugs on campus will be expelled from the college. 6. Local, state and federal legal sanctions will also be applied. Ocean County College is an educational institution committed to maintaining an environment which allows students to enjoy the full benefits of their learning experience and to understand the negative consequences of the illicit use of alcohol and drugs on their lives. In accordance with Policy #5246.1, approved by the Board of Trustees of Ocean County College, and in accordance with Public Law 101- 226, the college declares that it will make every effort to provide its students with an environment that is free of the problems associated with the unauthorized use and abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs. The college is committed to promoting the wellness and positive self-development of its students. The unauthorized use and abuse of alcohol and the illegal use and abuse of drugs inhibit students from attaining the benefit of their learning experience, expose them to serious illnesses and health risks, and therefore are prohibited. Counseling Services and Health Services Office provide direct assistance and confidential referral services for students seeking help with a substance abuse problem. Copies of the policy are available from the Student Health Office, Counseling Services, The Advising Center, and the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs. Emergency Loan Fund The Office of Student Life Emergency Loan Fund has been established to provide limited and immediate financial assistance to OCC students who may require additional money during the semester for books, supplies, graduation fees and personal needs. The loan amount cannot exceed $100.00. The loan is short term and is expected to be repaid within two weeks. A student in default on a loan is not eligible for subsequent loans. Failure to repay a loan by the due date will result in a student's records being sealed, prohibiting that student from registering for the next semester, graduating or receiving transcripts of coursework. The following penalty fees will be assessed to students who are delinquent in payment of their Office of Student Life Emergency Loans: Up to 7 days overdue $5.00 8 or more days overdue $10.00 Return Check Fee $20.00 Financial Obligations Outstanding financial obligations to any department within the college must be paid prior to registering for the next semester. Forming New Clubs Students can form new clubs around a variety of interests when they have a minimum of 10 members and have completed the APPLICATION FOR RECOGNITION AS AN OFFICIAL STUDENT ORGANIZATION. Interested individuals may contact the Office of Student Life for further information. Gambling In accordance with NJ state law, all forms of gambling are prohibited on the OCC campus and during all college-connected activities, on or off campus, except in connection with a college-sponsored program at a NJ licensed casino. Offenders are subject to disciplinary action that may result in suspension or expulsion. General Rules and Regulations All students are governed by college rules and regulations. Each student is expected to exercise discretion and act within the limits of decorum and propriety at all times and in all places. Students are especially accountable for behavior that contributes to or results in: a. Danger to the safety and well-being of him/herself and/or others. b. A breach of college rules and regulations. c. Violation of local, state or federal laws. d. A disruption of any college program whether it be curricular on noncurricular. The college reserves the right to suspend, expel or take other corrective action on any student for justifiable cause and regards this right as part of the college contract. Specific corrective or disciplinary action shall be determined by the Dean of Special Services, utilizing the sanctions cited in the Student-Faculty Judiciary Council in accordance with its constitution. Grievance Procedure Any student who believes he or she has been harmed by the interpretation, application or violation of college policies and/or procedures may file a complaint through the Dean of Special Services. The complaint shall be handled in accordance with appropriate procedure approved by the President. 1. A grievance is a claim by a student that he/she has suffered harm by a member of the college community due to one or more of the following conditions: sex, marital status, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, sexual orientation, or Vietnam-era veteran. In the event that a student believes he/ she has the basis for a grievance, he/she shall first informally discuss the grievance with the college employee who is a party to the grievance within seven (7) calendar days of the alleged incident. If the informal discussion with the college employee fails to resolve the complaint, the student grievant may then pursue informal discussion of the issue with the employee's supervisor. 2. If, as a result of the informal discussion(s), a grievance still exists, the student shall submit the grievance, in writing, within fourteen (14) calendar days from the date of the alleged grievance to the V.P.-level officer in whose functional area of responsibility the alleged grievance took place with a copy to the college employee(s) who is/are a party to the grievance. Failure to initiate this procedure within the specified time frame shall negate the student's right to grieve. The written grievance, signed by the student, shall include: a. The nature of the grievance including as much specificity as possible. b. The nature and extent of harm, loss or inconvenience. c. The results of previous discussion with the involved college employee. d. The dissatisfaction with previous action, The appropriate V.P.-level officer shall then investigate the charges and hold a formal meeting with the grievant, the college employee against whom the grievance is filed, and other parties to the grievance. The appropriate V.P.-level officer shall give a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours notice of such a formal meeting to the principal parties. This meeting shall be held at a time which is mutually convenient for both parties. The employee against whom the grievance is filed shall in such notice be apprised of the specific nature of the complaint. The principal parties to the grievance shall have the opportunity to have present a representative of their respective choices at the meeting. The appropriate V.P.-level officer shall respond after his/her investigation of the charges, in writing, to the written grievance within fourteen (14) calendar days of receipt of the grievance. A copy of the response shall also be provided to the college employee(s) who is/are a party to the grievance and the employee's supervisor. 3. If the student feels that he/she has not received a satisfactory settlement of the grievance from the appropriate V.P.-level officer, he/she may request the President of the College to hear the complaint. The President may review the complaint or, at the President's discretion, appoint a representative or a Review Committee to do so and make recommendations on the complaint. A review/hearing, if a hearing is deemed appropriate by the President, shall commence within fourteen (14) calendar days of the date on which the President received the request from the grievant. The President's designated representative or Review Committee shall render its recommendation on the grievance, in writing, to the President within fourteen (14) calendar days of its inception. The parties to the complaint shall be instructed to appear at the review/hearing, if a hearing is held, and shall be given a minimum notice of twenty-four (24) hours, This hearing shall be held at a time which is mutually convenient for both parties. The principal parties to the grievance shall have the opportunity to have present a representative of their respective choices at the hearing. The President shall render a decision on the grievance within seven (7) calendar days of receipt of the recommendation or the close of the President's own review. A copy of the President's decision shall be provided to the student, to the college employee who is party to the grievance, and to the employee's supervisor. 4. The designated reviewing party at each level of the grievance procedure, beyond the informal first level, shall arrange for orderly presentation of evidence related to the grieved condition. Individuals involved in the complaint shall be notified of the dates, times, and procedures for hearings if such hearings are held. The number of days held should be considered as maximum, and all reasonable effort should be made to expedite the process. However, the time limits may be extended by mutual consent, if conditions warrant. A grievance may be withdrawn at any level by a grievant. No reprisals shall be taken against any student because he/she initiates or takes part in the grievance process. If remedial action is indicated in the resolution of the grievance, established administrative and operating procedures shall be utilized. All time frames and procedures outlined herein are subject to change in accordance with relevant provisions of existing collective bargaining agreements. The Division of Student Affairs has primary responsibility for the implementation of this procedure. Any questions and/or concerns relative to the procedure as outlined herein shall be referred to the Vice President of Student Affairs or Dean of Special Services. Guest Speakers on Campus Any organization recognized by the Office of Student Life has the privilege of inviting any speaker to appear on this campus within the limits of the Guest Speaker policy and procedures which are coordinated by the Office of Student Life. ID Cards/Library Cards All students are required to have their pictures taken for OCC ID cards at the beginning of each academic year. The ID cards are necessary for trip sign-up and purchasing tickets through the Office of Student Life and to borrow books/materials from the library. Replacement ID Cards/Library Cards are $10.00. Inclement Weather Emergency Closing Classes will be canceled according to the following three announcements: By 5:30 a.m. to announce closing of the college for a specified period of time; By 10 a.m. to announce closing of afternoon classes (until 6:00 p.m.); By 2:30 p.m. to announce closing of evening classes (after 6:00 p.m.). The first place an emergency closing will be posted is the college website www.ocean.edu. There will also be a recorded message on the main college phone line, 732-255-0400. In addition to these outlets, local media are expected to announce college closings - but students are urged to check the website or phone message also to get the most accurate and up to date information. If the college is open, there will be no announcement. The following radio stations will air announcements on closings or delayed openings: FM RADIO 92.7 WOBM 94.3 WJLK B98.5 Real Jersey Country 99.7/107.1 The Breeze 100.1 WJRZ 105.7 TheHawk 106.3/106.5 G-Rock Radio AM RADIO 1160 WOBM 1260 WBUD 1310 Country 1410 Real Oldies Music TV STATIONS News 12 Lab Fees See listing in college catalog Letters Individual students may not write in the name of Ocean County College to other student groups or to officials at other colleges unless this is done in an official capacity by a student organization. No club or organization will be permitted to conduct correspondence on official college stationery unless approved by the Office of Student Life. All student organizations are encouraged to develop their own stationery under the guidance of the Office of Student Life. Loan See Emergency Loan Fund. Lost and Found Lost items from all over the campus usually wind up at the Security Office located in the rear of the Instructional Building. If you should become parted from a prized possession, call extension 2170 or stop in to claim it. Medical Absences In the event of an extended leave of absence from classes due to illness, it is the responsibility of each student to contact the instructor directly. Messages and Mail Every recognized student organization will have a mailbox in the College Center. Information for any of these groups may be given to the personnel in the Office of Student Life for proper handling. Outgoing calls by students must be made from public telephones. Families and friends of students are urged not to send personal mail or make routine telephone calls to students at the college. OCC Email Address for Students All students are provided an “official” OCC email address. This is a primary means of communication between OCC and you. Go to the website, www.ocean.edu/cruiser.htm, to find out how to access your email. Students should check their OCC email on a frequent basis to obtain important OCC-related information. Off Campus Offenses Except for college sponsored off-campus programs. It is the intent of the college to leave disciplinary action with respect to off-campus offenses of students to the civil authorities. It must be noted, however, that there are certain off-campus offenses that by their very nature pose a serious threat to the persons or property of the college community. In such cases, the college reserves the right to take appropriate action as specified within the Student- Faculty Judiciary Council Constitution. Copies of this constitution are available from the Vice President of Student Affairs Office. Parking / Traffic Regulations Parking Regulations 1. Students are permitted to park in Parking Lots 1 and 2 in white lines only. Areas are designated as follows: a. White lines - Student Parking (subject to municipal tickets) b. Yellow lines - Faculty/Staff Parking c. Blue lines - Handicapped Parking 2. Vehicles must park within designated parking areas. Lack of a regular parking space in an area is not a valid excuse for parking in an unmarked location. 3. Motorcycles, motor scooters, motorbikes and bicycles are subject to the same regulations as four-wheel vehicles, except they are to be parked in specially designated motorcycle areas. 4. Parking on the grass or loading dock areas or in a Fire Zone is prohibited at all times. 5. Driving any vehicle (two or four wheel) on the mall is prohibited at all times. 6. The owner of vehicles parked in restricted zones for the purpose of loading or unloading must notify security and receive permission before parking illegally. 7. Any vehicle that has been left on the campus for 5 consecutive days will be identified as an abandoned vehicle and towed off the campus at the owner's expense. A disabled vehicle should be reported to security immediately. 8. Special parking permits for handicapped or disabled students may be obtained from the college nurse. The nurse reserves the right to check with the physician involved and to revoke the permit if necessary. 9. Students are not permitted to park in Visitor or Faculty/Staff parking at any time. Traffic Regulations 1. The speed limit at Ocean County College is 15 M.P.H., unless otherwise posted. This regulation will be strictly enforced. 2. Pedestrians have the right-of-way at all times. 3. All persons operating a vehicle on campus must obey stop signs and all other signs regulating traffic safety. 4. All vehicle accidents occurring on campus must be reported to the Security Department and the Dover Township Police Department, (732) 349-0150. In the case of personal injury, the incident should also be reported to the college nurse. Enforcement 1. The Security Department enforces the college vehicle regulations. A written notice of violation(s) is affixed to each vehicle parked in violation of the regulations. 2. In the case of blatant parking violations (Handicapped, Loading Zones, Fire Lanes. etc.), the Security Department will notify Dover Township Police and a municipal summons will be issued. 3. When personal or property safety is threatened, the normal flow of traffic is impeded, or the maintenance of the college is stopped by an illegally parked vehicle, it may be towed at the owner's expense. Fees $15.00 Occupying more than one parking space. Parking in Faculty/Staff/Visitor space. Parking in non-designated space. $25.00 Parking in “No Parking” Zone (Fire, unloading, etc.) Blocking or impeding traffic. $50.00 Parking in Handicapped space without permit. Towing fee. The fine for each parking violation must be paid in person or by mail to: Accounting Department Ocean County College College Drive, P.O. Box 2001 Toms River, NJ 08754-2001 Checks or money order should be made payable to Ocean County College. PARKING IN HANDICAPPED, FIRE AND/OR LOADING ZONES IS A MUNICIPAL VIOLATION AND SUBJECT TO TICKETING BY THE DOVER TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT. Traffic Appeal Procedures 1. A ticket may be appealed to the Traffic Appeals Committee provided it is made in writing to the Security Office within twenty (20) calendar days from the issuance date of the Vehicle Violation Ticket. 2. Request forms may be obtained from and returned to the Security Office. Failure to properly file an appeal request form shall result in the forfeit of the right to appeal. 3. The following issues will not be considered for appeal: a) the length of time the vehicle was illegally parked b) parking on the grass c) that parking in a particular area in the past did not result in being ticketed or that there were no “no parking” signs d) that other vehicles in the same area were not ticketed e) that Parking Lot #1 was full f) parking in faculty/staff for any reason when you are a student g) direct violation of Parking Policy 4. The Traffic Appeals Committee, not the Security Department, has the authority to hear and decide appeals. Payment Methods Checks or money orders are acceptable if made payable to Ocean County College and must include the student's name and ticket number. A charge of $20.00 will be assessed for all checks issued to the college and not paid upon presentation to the bank. Once a personal check is returned by a bank to the college, it will not be re-deposited nor will the college accept another personal check in its place. Instead, payment will have to be made in cash or by certified check or money order. Once payment has been made, the check cannot be returned to the student if the student changes his or her mind about attending. Likewise, the student should not process a stop payment order at his or her bank. The college will treat a stop payment as a returned check and will apply the $20.00 returned check charge. Instead, the student should go to the Office of Admissions and Records and process a “drop” form. The college will, in turn, generate a refund check in the appropriate amount. Petitions Before a petition is circulated, one copy must be filed with the Director of Student Life. Each copy must bear the words, “Ocean County College”, the name of the group or groups sponsoring the petition and the petition itself. Pets are not allowed on Campus. Portable stereos are not permitted in any building. Posters, Notices, Circulars, Literature 1. Posters and notices may be placed only on bulletin boards assigned by the Office of Student Life. All posters, notices, circulars and other literature posted or distributed on campus must contain the name and address of the distributing organization or individual. 2. Notices are not to be sent to instructors to read in class. If a group wishes to circulate to the faculty, approval must be received directly from the Vice President of Academic Affairs. 3. Notices for students are to be distributed in a fashion that does not interfere with student passage. Pressure is not to be exerted upon individuals to accept notices. The distribution of notices is in no way to interfere with the regular functioning of the college. The distributors are responsible for policing (cleaning up) the area so that no notices or other distributed materials litter the campus. 4. Only posters, notices, circulars and literature which have been approved by the Office of Student Life can be distributed/ posted on campus. 5. Advertisements, flyers, etc., are not permitted to be placed on motor vehicles parked on campus. Publicity General publicity concerning the college and college activities is released through the College Relations Department. All information for press and radio must be cleared through that office as well. Student club/ organization publicity is handled in conjunction with and approved by the Coordinator of Student Volunteerism/Programming or the Coordinator of Student Activities/Operations. Recreational Activities Informal recreational activities (frisbee throwing, playing hackie sack, football, baseball, etc.) must not pose danger to the safety and well-being of others, interfere with the movement of others on the campus, or disrupt any college curricular or co-curricular program/activity. Disregard of this policy (#5247) may result in verbal or written reprimand, restitution of costs, disciplinary probation, suspension or expulsion. Assistance/Emergency Telephones Emergency telephones are located strategically throughout the buildings and within the parking lots for access to Campus Security and the College Nurse for emergency and general information. Roller Skates, Roller Blades, and Skateboards are not permitted on campus. Security/Safety To facilitate the reporting of criminal actions or a campus emergency, the following procedures are in place: a) The Security Office, located on the first floor of the Instructional Building, is open and staffed 24 hours a day. b) There is a motorized patrol of campus and parking lots; c) Emergency telephones are located throughout the campus and are direct dial to the switchboard operator, Security Office, and College Nurse; d) The Security Office is equipped with call extension “ID” which allows the Security Department to identify your calling location in the event of an emergency; e) Security, the Telephone Operator, the College Nurse and the Duty Administrator are equipped with portable two-way radios and are in constant communication with each other; f) From off-campus, Security can be reached at (732) 255-0451 or, on-campus, ext. 2170, 24 hours a day; To control access to the campus and college buildings, the following policies and procedures are in effect; a) There is college policy that deals with visitors to the campus and the times they are permitted in buildings; b) Security issues photo ID cards to all Faculty/ Staff, active alumni and students; c) Buildings are secured at the conclusion of activities each day; d) Written permission must be obtained by a student from a faculty or staff member to work late in a building; e) Security maintains a schedule of events in order to know which buildings should be open; f) Doors and door locks are inspected nightly to insure proper operation; g) Lights are inspected nightly and reported to maintenance if not working; h) Trees and shrubs are maintained throughout the campus mall; i) Television observation cameras are located in buildings and parking lots. Security Officers at Ocean County College maintain an excellent working relationship with the Dover Township Police Department, the Ocean County Sheriff's Department and the New Jersey State Police. The security manual requires our security officers to handle violations of minor rules and regulations and to call the police for violations of a serious or criminal nature. Sexual Assault Victims Bill Of Rights Ocean County College will not tolerate sexual assault in any form. Sexual assault includes any forcible and/or nonforcible sex offense, including acquaintance rape, in accordance with current state and federal law. A victim of sexual assault shall have the right: 1. To be treated with dignity and provided a safe and confidential place to report the incident and discuss his/her concerns. The three offices designated for this purpose are the College Health Office, the Security Office, and the Counseling Center; 2. To be free from any suggestion that victims must report the crimes to be assured of any other right guaranteed under this policy; 3. To be free from any suggestion that victims are responsible for the commission of crimes against them. 4. To be free from any pressure from campus personnel to: report crimes if the victim does not want to do so; report crimes as lesser offenses than the victim perceives the crime to be; refrain from reporting crimes; refrain from reporting crimes to avoid unwanted personal publicity. 5. To receive full, prompt, and victim-sensitive cooperation of campus personnel with regard to obtaining, securing, and maintaining evidence, including a medical examination when it is necessary to preserve evidence of the assault. 6. To be provided a list of references of existing campus and community medical, counseling, mental health and student services for victims of sexual assault, whether or not the crime is formally reported to campus or civil authorities. 7. To have access to campus counseling under the same terms and conditions as apply to other students in their institution seeking such counseling. 8. To be informed of and assisted in exercising: any rights to confidential or anonymous testing for sexually transmitted diseases, human immunodeficiency virus, and/or pregnancy; any rights that may be provided by law to compel and disclose the results of testing of sexual assault suspects for communicable diseases. 9. To be afforded the same access to legal assistance as the accused. 10. To be afforded the same opportunity to have others present during any campus disciplinary proceeding that is allowed the accused. 11. To be notified of the outcome of the sexual assault disciplinary proceeding against the accused. 12. To have any allegation of sexual assault investigated and adjudicated by the appropriate criminal and civil authorities of the jurisdiction in which the sexual assault is reported. 13. To receive full and prompt cooperation and assistance of campus personnel in identifying the procedures for notifying off-campus authorities. 14. To require campus personnel to take reasonable and necessary actions to prevent further unwanted contact of victims by their alleged assailants. Sexual Harassment If you have any questions or concerns, trained facilitators are here to help. (Policy #2410 see page 48) Carol Crawford, INST107, ext. 364 Don Doran, College Center, ext. 2136 Kate Pandolpho, Admin Bldg, Rm 24, ext. 2941 Nancy Polonitza, Counseling, ext. 2495 William Rickert, Russ 112, ext. 2179 Purpose The Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure is to provide an internal monitoring process to investigate and alleviate sexual harassment complaints of employees and students. Confidentiality The college has a legal responsibility to create and maintain a safe environment. All proceedings will be conducted in a manner which protects the confidentiality interests of those involved to the extent possible. Complaint A complaint is defined as any allegation by an employee or student that he/she has been the victim of sexual harassment. The college and each of its officers have a legal obligation to take all complaints seriously. The two methods of initiating, exploring and resolving complaints are described below. An individual may initiate the procedure at either the informal or the formal level. Informal Procedure 1. Any individual who has questions, concerns, etc. arranges to meet with a college employee who is a member of the Sexual Harassment Response Team. The names of the response team members and their contact information are published in the College's Sexual Harassment Awareness brochure. The contact information is also available from the College Health Service, Advising, Counseling Services, Security, Human Resources, and the Student Handbook. 2. The purpose of the meeting between any individual with concerns and the member of the Sexual Harassment Response Team is to provide guidance on both formal and informal procedures and to develop a plan for prompt resolution. 3. With written permission of the individual raising the concern and upon assessing the probability of resolving the issue, a member of the Sexual Harassment Response Team may intervene and attempt to resolve the problem informally. The Sexual Response Team member shall document all discussions and any attempts to resolve the issues. Formal Procedure If the complaint cannot be resolved informally to the satisfaction of the individual who raised it, or if an individual chooses to initiate the process at the formal level, the complaint shall be put in writing. This document shall include the individual's detailed version of the harassing behavior, the names of any individual who attempted to resolve the, matter and any other pertinent information. 1. The written complaint and other written documentation must be forwarded to the following College officials: A. Students submit complaint to the Vice President of Student Affairs. B. College employees submit complaints to the EE/AA Officer. 2. A discreet investigation will be completed by the College official to whom the complaint was submitted within three weeks of receipt of the complaint, if possible. In the event that the above mentioned individual is the subject of the complaint, an alternate, designated by the President, will conduct the investigation/appeal. 3. A written response will be forwarded to all parties involved within two weeks of completion of the investigation. 4. Within two weeks after receipt of the decision issued by the College official, either party may file exceptions to the decision with the President of the College. If exceptions are filed, the College official shall submit to the President a written record of the proceedings at the previous level and all support documentation collected through the complaint process. Within two weeks of the receipt of the exceptions, the record and the support documentation, the President will affirm, modify, or reject the decision rendered by the above mentioned College official. Miscellaneous 1. Meetings held under this procedure shall be conducted at a time and place which will afford a fair and reasonable opportunity for all persons entitled to be present to attend. 2. Time limits provided in this procedure may be extended by written mutual agreement of the individual bringing the complaint and the appropriate Vice President. 3. No employee or student who brings forward, in good faith, a complaint of sexual harassment or participates in the investigation of a complaint will be retaliated against. Retaliation against anyone reporting or thought to have reported sexual harassment is prohibited. Such behavior will be subject to disciplinary action. 4. If a formal complaint is filed under this procedure, the individual bringing the complaint should exhaust this procedure before filing any complaint with any union/associations or any grievance or complaint procedure. 5. An individual whose allegations are found to be false may be subject to disciplinary action. Shoes and Shirts must he worn in every campus building. Skateboards and Sleds are not permitted on campus. Smoking is not permitted on campus. Snow Days (See Inclement Weather) Solicitation There will be no solicitation on campus. Promotional activities involving campus events must be preapproved by the Director of Student Life. Student Fee See College/Student Fee Student Life Box Office The Office of Student Life operates the Student Life Box Office which is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Evening hours vary based on staff availability. Please see sign posted at box office. Campus program tickets, travel program reservations, half-price Broadway theater coupons, information and more are available to all full and part-time students, alumni and staff. (Travel sign-up procedures are listed within the monthly Happenings Calendar.) Student Life Emergency Loan Fund (See Emergency Loan Fund) Technology Fee $11 per credit Textbooks & Materials A student may expect to spend an average of $375.00 per semester for textbooks. Students, however, should be alerted to the fact that material and supply costs for some courses may increase this figure significantly. A laboratory or materials fee may, on the average, add $50.00 per semester. Tuition and Fees Tuition for a bonafide resident of Ocean County College will be based on a per credit hour charge multiplied by the number of credits registered for plus fees. Failure to make payments by the specified due date for tuition and fees may cause the courses selected by the student to be canceled from his/her schedule. The student's tuition and fees are established by the college's Board of Trustees and are subject to change at any time. Tuition Refunds Students who officially withdraw from courses may be eligible for a percentage refund of tuition and certain fees. If any fees are still owed, your refund will be applied accordingly; if your bill has been paid, you will receive your refund from the college's business office. No refund will be given for registration fees, tuition deposit, certificate, graduation or Tuition Payment Plan fees. Official date of withdrawal will be the date the Admissions and Records Office receives the completed withdrawal form with all required signatures. The schedule for refund for the Fall and Spring Semesters is as follows: Cancelled by the college 100% Approved withdrawal prior to the first day of the semester 100% Approved withdrawal from the first day of the semester up to and including the tenth day of the semester 50% Approved withdrawal after the tenth day of the semester None NON-ATTENDANCE DOES NOT RELIEVE STUDENTS OF FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. STUDENTS MUST WITHDRAW FROM CLASS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR A REFUND. The first day of class is defined to be the date on which classes officially begin for the semester and not the student's first class day. Student Privacy The Family Educational Rights And Privacy Act Of 1974 The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 sets out requirements designed to protect the privacy of students. Specifically, the statute governs (1) access to records and (2) the release of such records. Ocean County College has developed policies and procedures which comply fully with the intent of this legislation, thereby ensuring students access to their educational records and protecting such individuals' rights to privacy by limiting the transferability of their records without their consent. The other major aspect of the Privacy Act of 1974 refers to the release of information concerning students. Other than the information listed below, hereafter referred to as “directory information”, the written consent of the student must be obtained before data can be released about that student. This applies to potential employers, schools where students may wish to transfer, reference checks, etc. “Directory information,” on the other hand, is information which may be released by the college unless a student notifies the Records Office that such information in part or in whole is not to be released. “Directory information” includes the following: student's name; student's address; student's telephone listing; date and place of birth; major field of study; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height, if a member of an athletic team; dates of attendance; degrees and awards received; and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. It is the student's responsibility to notify the Records Office if he or she does not wish to have any or all of the above information released. All inquiries regarding established policy and procedures relative to this act should be directed to the Dean of Special Services. The Records Office and the Dean's Office are located on the mall level of the Administration Building. Additionally the following information is available for the privileged use of the members of the Vice President of Student Affairs' staff and the faculty of Ocean County College. This information may not be released to any other parties without the written consent of the student and is considered confidential. Test results (standardized intelligence tests, aptitude tests, interest inventory tests, etc.) Health data Faculty evaluations including mid-term reports and attendance reports Counseling reports and evaluations Disciplinary reports, including disciplinary actions Any and all information maintained in a student's permanent education record Clery Act Crime Report

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