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General Policies and Procedures


Anti-Harassment, including Sexual Harassment Policy

A working and learning environment that is free from any form of unlawful discrimination including harassment on the basis of any legally protected status is essential and shall be maintained. It will be a violation of College policy for anyone, including any College employee, elected official, vendor, student, contractor or any visitors or third party to harass another individual in the work place, educational environment, or at College-sponsored activities on the basis of any legally protected group status and the College will not tolerate any form of harassment, including sexual harassment. Violation of this policy shall be considered grounds for corrective action including disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from the College or termination of employment.

Prohibited Conduct

The conduct prohibited by this policy includes unwelcome conduct, whether verbal, physical or visual, that is based upon the individual's protected status, such as sex, color, race, ancestry, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran's status, citizenship status, sexual orientation or other protected group status as defined by law. The College will not tolerate harassing conduct that affects tangible job benefits or educa tional development, that interferes unreasonably with an individual's work or educational performance, or that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or learning environment. Such harassment may include, for example, jokes or epithets about another person's protected status, or teasing or practical jokes directed at a person based upon his or her protected status.

Definition of Sexual Harassment

"Sexual harassment" consists of unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by any individual to another, including persons of the opposite or same sex, where:
  • Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a person's employment or educational development;
  • Decisions affecting an individual's employment or education are made on the basis of whether the person submits to or rejects sexual demands; or
  • Such conduct has the purpose or effect of reasonably interfering with an individual's work or educational performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or learning environment. Also, sexual harassment may occur between students. Any conduct by another student which is physically threatening or humiliating or which unreasonably interferes with a student's educational performance should be brought to the attention of the College for investigation and appropriate action.
Some conduct commonly defined as sexual harassment includes (but is not limited to):
  • Verbal: Sexual innuendos; suggestive comments, humor and jokes about sex, anatomy or gender specific traits; sexual propositions or statements of a sexual nature about other employees or stu dents, even outside of their presence.
  • Nonverbal: Suggestive or insulting sounds (whistling, "catcalls", "smacking" or "kissing" noises); leering; obscene gestures or sexually suggestive bodily gestures.
  • Visual: Posters, signs, pin-ups, cartoons or slogans of a sexual nature.
  • Physical: Unwelcome touching; hugging or kissing; pinching or brushing against the body; physical or emotional coercion of sexual intercourse; or actual assault.
Investigation and Grievance Procedure

Any individual who believes that he/she has been subjected to sexual harassment, has been informed of conduct constituting harassment or who witnesses harassment should promptly submit a complaint to the Vice President of Administration and Community Services or the President in accordance with the following griev ance procedures. Students should submit their complaints to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. The Vice President of Administration and Community Services or the Vice President of Academic Affairs shall be respon sible for the investigation and grievance procedures contained herein. If an employee receives a complaint of harassment directly from another employee the complaint shall be immediately reported to the Vice President of Administration and Community Services.

Any individual wishing to submit a complaint (i.e., the "complainant") must submit a statement to the appropriate Vice President (employees-Vice President of Administration and Community Services; students-Vice President of Academic Affairs), Lewis and Clark Community College, 5800 Godfrey Road, Godfrey, IL 62035, or alternatively, the President. The statement should state the specific facts and/or perceived wrongful act (e.g., location, names, dates, times) to be investigated. All such com plaints should be submitted promptly.

The Vice President of Administration and Community Services or the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his/her designee shall promptly and thoroughly investigate the complaint describing con duct inconsistent with the policy.

If an investigation confirms a violation of this policy has occurred, the College will take corrective action, including discipline, up to and including expulsion or discharge, as is appropriate under the circumstances. In the event of harassment by an individual who does not work for the College, the College will take corrective action as is reasonable and appropriate under the circumstances.

Those who feel they have been sexually harassed or discriminated against may seek assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Rights. The Department of Human Rights is a state agency which will investigate the charge without cost to the individual. If the Department of Human Rights determines that there is evidence of harassment or discrimination, it will attempt to conciliate the matter or it will file a complaint on behalf of the individual with the Illinois Human Rights Commission. The Human Rights Commission will hear the complaint pursuant to its rules and procedures. The agencies may be contacted at the following addresses:

Illinois Department of Human Rights Illinois Human Rights Commission
State of Illinois Center State of Illinois Center
100 W. Randolph Street, Suite 5-100 100 W. Randolph Street, Suite, Suite 5-100
Chicago, IL 60601 Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 814-6245 | (312) 814-6269

Retaliation

Reporting harassment will not reflect adversely upon an individual's employment or educational status. Retali ation is prohibited and persons found to have retaliated or discriminated against an employee, student or other individual for complaining about harassment or for initiating or assisting with a claim of harassment will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including expulsion or discharge. Anyone experiencing or witnessing any conduct he or she believes to be retaliation should immediately report it.

Confidentiality
 
The rights to confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the accused, will be respected consistent with the management of the College, including the College's legal obligation to investigate allegations of misconduct and to take corrective action when this conduct has occurred.

College Closing Policy

If it becomes necessary to close the College due to inclement weather, notification will occur on the campus telephone system, the campus Web site, major St. Louis television stations, and major St. Louis and local community radio stations. A message will be placed on the main campus telephone line indicating hours and locations of closings.

Classes held at the Community Education Centers throughout the district will follow the same closing policy as on-campus classes.

Classes held at community public schools throughout the district will not meet whenever the main L&C campus is officially closed for inclement weather even if the off-campus site remains open. Off-campus sites may also be closed on a site-by-site basis by the local authority (principal or superintendent) even if the main L&C campus remains open.

Classes held at specialized locations (hospitals, libraries, industries, social service agencies, other col leges, etc.) will meet according to the schedules of those organizations.

Holidays, Thanksgiving Recess, Spring Recess - The main L&C campus, the three Community Education Centers and the N. O. Nelson Campus will maintain the academic calendar and holiday schedule published in the Catalog.

However, classes held at community public schools and other specialized locations (hospitals, libraries, industries, social service agencies, other colleges, etc.) will meet according to the schedules of the individual organizations. For example, if a public school teacher in-service day falls on a day when L&C courses are scheduled to meet, the L&C courses WILL NOT MEET on that day or evening in that location. Conversely, if L&C observes a Spring Recess that the local school districts do not observe, the off-campus L&C courses WILL MEET at the respective community public schools on that day or evening.

Drug and Alcohol Prevention

Alcohol and Drug Abuse

All applicable state, federal, and local laws relating to alcoholic beverages and controlled substances will be enforced. Illegal possession, consumption, use, sale, delivery or transfer of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances distribution is prohibited on the college grounds and in College facilities.

Students seeking assistance with drug or alcohol problems will be referred by Counseling or Health Services to appropriate community services such as Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, or local community counseling agencies. Faculty and staff will have an additional option of seeking assistance through Saint Anthony's Hospital's Occupational Health Department located in Saint Clare's Hospital at 915 East Fifth Street, Alton, IL 62002.

Illinois it is against the law to sell, manufacture and deliver illegal drugs on or around any school property. Local laws and regulations of Godfrey, Illinois and Madison county DUI Laws are the same as the State of Illinois.

In Illinois, the zero tolerance law went into effect Jan. 1, 1995. This law reinforces drinking is illegal for anyone under age 21, and if you're caught driving with any trace of alcohol in your system, you will lose your driver's license.

Alcohol Possession

Any person under the age of 21 years who has any alcoholic beverage in his/her possession on any street or highway or in any public place or in any place open to the public is guilty of a Class B misdemeanor.

Any person who rents a hotel or motel room for the purpose of or with the knowledge that such room shall be used for the consumption of alcoholic liquor by persons under the age of 21 shall be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor.

In an effort to prevent drinking to excess and driving, Public Act 094-1047 was passed by the Illinois General Assembly and went into effect on January 1, 2007. This Act amends the Liquor Control Act of 1934 by adding Section 6-33 as follows: Sealing and removal of open wine bottles from a restaurant. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, a restaurant licensed to sell alcoholic liquor in this State may permit a patron to remove one unsealed and partially consumed bottle of wine for off-premise consumption provided that the patron has purchased a meal and consumed a portion of the bottle of wine with the meal on the restaurant premises. A partially consumed bottle of wine that is to be removed from the premises pursuant to this Section shall be securely sealed by the licensee or an agent of the licensee prior to removal from the premises and placed in a transparent one-time use tamper-proof bag. The licensee or agent of the licensee shall provide a dated receipt for the bottle of wine to the patron. Wine that is resealed in accordance with the provisions of this Section and not tampered with shall not be deemed an unsealed container for the purposes of Section 11-502 of the Illinois Vehicle Code.

Federal Drug Conviction

A federal drug conviction may result in loss of federal benefits, including school loans, grants, scholarships, contracts, and licenses. Federal drug trafficking convictions may result in denial of federal benefits for up to five years for a first conviction, 10 years for a second and permanent denial for a third. Federal drug convictions for possession may result in denial of federal benefits up to one year for a first conviction and up to five years for subsequent convictions. Penalties may vary dependent upon the quantity of the substance involved. Stiff penalties such as loss of driving privileges, higher insurance rates, fines, legal fees, possible jail sentence, and loss of vehicle can be enforced for above violations.

Fraudulent IDs and Drivers Licenses

It is illegal to assist in obtaining or to fraudulently obtain, distribute, use, or posses a "fake" ID or license. It is a Class IV felony with fines from $500-$25,000 or 50 hours of community service or possible imprisonment of one to three years. The Secretary of State has the authority to suspend or revoke driving privileges, prior to conviction, for any party involved.

Herbal Energy Drinks

Be aware of the energy drinks that are highly marketed. Many of them contain natural herbal.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

L&C accords to students all the rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 as amended. The College will not provide access to nor disclose any information from students' educational records without the written consent of students except as permitted by FERPA: to L&C officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the record, in connection with a student's request for or receipt of financial aid, to accrediting organizations to carry out their functions, to comply with a judicial order, to appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency, and to release directory information (see below).

L&C officials with legitimate educational interest in a student's educational records may access those records without the student's consent. A school official includes: a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position, a person elected to the Board of Trustees, a person employed by or under contract to the College to perform a special task, such as the attorney or auditor.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official is performing: a task that is specific to his or her position description or by a contract agreement; a task related to a student's education; a task related to the discipline of a student.

Unless specifically requested otherwise in writing to the Director of the Enrollment Center/Admissions Services, the College may disclose the following Directory Information: (1) name, (2) whether or not currently enrolled, (3) dates attended, and (4) degrees and honors attained. Additionally, to comply with the Solomon Amendment, the College will release to authorized military personnel the following directory information: student's name, address, telephone listing, date of birth, academic year, academic major, and degrees received. Students can request non-disclosure of above Directory Information by completing a form available from the Director in the Enrollment Center, Baldwin 1450.

Students have the right to review their educational records. Any information within the record is open for the student's inspection. If a student wishes to inspect the educational record, the student should begin the process by completing a Request to Inspect and Review Education Record form. If a student wishes to chal lenge data in the educational record which he or she considers inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy rights, the student may request a hearing to be conducted. The request form may be obtained from the Enrollment Center.

Under FERPA a student's right to review his or her records supersedes the right of the parent when the student becomes 18 or is enrolled in a post-secondary institution.

Note: Lewis and Clark Community College has entered into a cooperative agreement program with Blackburn College. There will be an exchange of academic records between the two institutions of students enrolled in the Cooperative Program. A release from the L&C/Blackburn Cooperative student will be requested.

Note: The College uses students' College ID numbers and social security numbers for limited and specific purposes. The College is required to obtain students' social security numbers for the purposes of Federal financial aid, College employment (IRS reporting), and Hope/Life Long Learning Scholarship reporting. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy act (FERPA) requires implementation of policies to protect a student's "educational records" and "personally identifiable information" including College ID numbers and social secu rity numbers. College ID numbers and social security numbers are protected and not released to a third party without each student's written permission.

Non-Discrimination and Human Rights Statement

Lewis and Clark Community College is committed to the most fundamental principles of human dignity, equality of opportunity, and academic freedom. This commitment requires that decisions involving students and employees be based on individual merit and be free from discrimination or harassment in all its forms. Lewis and Clark Community College is committed to equal educational and employment opportunity and to affirmative action. Programs, services, and employment opportunities are administered by Lewis and Clark Community College without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, color, creed or religion, national origin, disability, age, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, and other protected categories. The College abides by affirmative action principles, makes reasonable efforts to accommodate qualified individuals with special needs, and complies with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders, and regulations. These include but are not limited to: (a) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; (b) Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; (c) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; (d) the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and (e) the Illinois Human Rights Act. It is the policy of the College that any form of discrimination or harassment, including sexual harassment, of employees or students on campus is unacceptable and shall not be tolerated. Any employee or student of the College who feels that he/she has been a victim of any form of discrimination or harassment should notify the College's Human Resources Office and the complaint will be investigated. (See Anti-Harassment Policy on page 15.) Complaints of discrimination or harassment prohibited by College policy are to be resolved within the existing College procedures. For additional information or assistance on the equal opportunity, affirmative action and harassment policies and procedures of Lewis and Clark Community College, please contact: Gary Ayres, Vice President of Administration and Community Services, Erickson Hall, Room 103, Lewis and Clark Community College, Godfrey, IL 62035 • 618-468-3000.

Parking

You must register each vehicle that you will drive on campus. One free decal showing the vehicle registration number will be issued. There will be a $2 fee for each additional vehicle decal.

Smoking Policy

Lewis and Clark Community College is a "smoke-free" campus in that smoking is not permitted in any campus buildings. Smoking is permitted outdoors, but smokers should not block the entranceways of buildings or stand close enough to the entranceways so that smoke enters into any buildings. Cigarette butts and matches should be deposited in appropriate receptacles. Enforcement of this policy is the responsibility of all employees.

Solicitation Policy

Solicitation of employees and students by individuals or profit-making organizations with products or services for personal use is prohibited unless otherwise authorized by the College President or his/her designee.

Solicitation by individuals or non-profit organizations is not prohibited provided that it does not interfere with College business, programs and activities, is approved by the Vice President of Student Life, and is affiliated with a College organization, club or office.

Student Conduct Code

Lewis and Clark Community College respects the civil rights and liberties of each member of the College. However, it is imperative for the College to be a safe environment, free from coercion and harassment allowing for the exchange and expression of ideas.

Student conduct is governed by this Student Conduct Code. Violations of the Student Conduct Code are subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Student conduct which is subject to disciplinary action includes, but is not limited to:
  • Academic dishonesty including, but not limited to, cheating, plagiarism, and forgery.
  • Using College computer equipment in a manner that violates College policies, including but not limited to unauthorized access to or altering, damaging, destroying, or removing a computer, a computer pro gram, or data; scheming to deceive or defraud to gain control over money, services, or property (includ ing electronic impulses, electronically produced data, confidential or copyrighted material, billing infor mation, and software in any form)
  • Violations of federal, state and local laws at any College-sponsored activity, on- or off-campus
  • Acts that interfere with the purposes and processes of the college community or that deny the rights of members of the College community.Violation of College's anti-harassment policy
  • Fighting or threats of violence
  • Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages except at off-campus activities where such possession and consumption meet requirements of state law and where the location of the activity does not prohibit such beverages
  • Being under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance not prescribed by a licensed physician
  • Sale, use, possession, or distribution of marijuana or possession of any controlled substance not prescribed by a licensed physician
  • Smoking, except in designated areas, in accordance with the Illinois Clean Air Act
  • Gambling
  • Theft or damage to College property or property of members of the College community
  • Failure to meet financial obligations relative to College transactions or the issuing of fraudulent checks
  • Possession of explosives, firecrackers, firearms, dangerous chemicals, or other weapons except as specially permitted by law and College officials
  • Denying a trustee, employee, student or invitee of the College freedom of movement or use of the facility; disrupting the performance of institutional duties or pursuit of educational activities; and occupying buildings or other property after due and legal notice to depart
  • Nuisance activities such as use of loud, abusive or otherwise improper language; creating any hazard to persons or things; blocking access ways; or improper disposal of rubbish
  • Lewd or obscene conduct, including use of a computer to access pornographic or hate sites
  • Giving false or misleading information in response to requests from College officials
Student Grievance Procedure

Student grievances may involve academic matters, administrative matters, disciplinary action under the Stu dent Conduct Code, or alleged discrimination. Grievances, other than those involving alleged discrimination charges will be handled through the regular chain of authority. A student who is not satisfied with a decision at one level may appeal the grievance in writing to the next level of authority. The President or President's designee is the final authority in any grievance except discrimination grievances where the Board of Trustees is the final authority.

In grievances involving academic matters, including grading, the student should first consult with the instructor concerned. Every attempt should be made to resolve the grievance at this point of origin; but if necessary, the student may process a grievance, in writing, through the levels of Coordinator, Dean, Academic Vice President and College President.

In grievances involving administrative matters and disciplinary action under the Student Conduct Code, the student should first consult with the responsible office administrator; if necessary the student should proceed, in writing, through the levels of appropriate Director or appropriate Dean, appropriate Vice President and College President.

In grievances involving alleged discrimination because of race, creed, color, sex, religion, national origin/ancestry, disability, sexual preference or age as prohibited by applicable federal or state law, the student should first consult with the Vice President of Academic Affairs who will handle the grievance. Appeals may be made to the L&C President and the Board of Trustees.

Grievances should be submitted in writing at each level of review within ten (10) school days of the action being grieved or within ten (10) school days of the decision on appeal. Written response will normally be made to the student within ten (10) school days unless circumstances require additional time for consideration.

Note: L&C must share information about complaints with its accreditor, the Higher Learning Commis­sion, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, but individual identities will be shielded.

If a grievance results in a fact-finding hearing, the following procedure will be followed: -You will be informed in writing of the date, time, location and subject of the hearing. AVice President has the right to suspend you temporarily until the hearing process can be completed. -The complaints will be described and examined at a meeting of the accusers, the accused, the appro priate Vice President (or representative), advisors and assistants that either party wishes to bring. The appropriate Vice President must be notified within two days of the hearing regarding anyone other than the principal parties who will be attending. -The appropriate Vice President will have five school days following the hearing to consult again with all parties, as may be necessary, and render a decision. -This decision may be appealed in writing to the L&C President (or representative) within ten school days of receipt of the decision. With respect to grievances involving alleged discrimination, the decision of the L&C President (or a representative) may be appealed to the Board of Trustees within ten school days of the receipt of the decision. -If you are dismissed, application must be made in writing to the appropriate Vice President before readmission will be considered. -Readmission to L&C will be dependent on the student's ability to document that the behaviors that led to his/her dismissal have been fully remediated.
If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the Vice President, he/she may appeal in writing to the College President.

Student Right To Know

The Campus Information and Security Building is located at the north entrance to the campus where campus maps, visitor, student, staff and faculty parking permits may be picked up. Complete campus regulations are available there. Security Services are maintained 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

To reach the Security Office by phone, call "0" if on campus and (618) 466-7000 if off campus.

Designated parking areas are established on campus for students, faculty, staff and guests. All vehicles must be parked on pavement, between parking lines, and/or centered on parking block bumpers. Parking is not allowed on grass, sidewalks, or in restricted areas.

Monitoring the access of faculty, staff and the student population on campus is a continual practice of campus security. There is daily interaction between security and maintenance on safety and maintenance conditions of campus facilities.

Security is given the authority to enforce all of the Lewis and Clark Community College campus rules and procedures relating to the daily operations of the college campus (i.e., parking, conduct, smoking, etc.). Lewis and Clark Community College Security immediately notifies the local or state police agencies when confronted with an arrest for a criminal violation on campus. Security will assist the police agencies in all appropriate ways.

Contact between security officers and the campus population, along with established guidelines in the college catalog and telephone directory, encourage prompt reporting of all crimes on campus. Reporting of all crimes on campus is accomplished by the security officer's notification to the appropriate police agencies and a copy of the security officer's incident report being forwarded to the appropriate college personnel.

The college has programs designed to inform students and employees about security procedures (i.e., pamphlets, instructions during orientation and registration, faculty and staff semester in-service week, on-campus counseling, and the Health and Safety Committee).

Off-campus college events require security arrangements to be made by each organization prior to ap­proval by college administration for such activities.

Please note that Student-Right-to-Know graduation rate and transfer-out data is available by calling (618) 468-5001 in Enrollment Services or by requesting a copy at the Security Office.

Athletic Participation and Financial Aid (EADA) disclosure is available by calling (618) 468-6002 in the Athletic division or by requesting a copy at the Security Office.

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus security Policy and Crimes Statistics Act (formerly the Cam­pus Security Act) is available directly at the following Web site or may be obtained by contacting Security at (618) 468-3160 or by requesting a copy at the Security Office.

Student Responsibilities

You are responsible for following all policies and meeting all requirements and deadlines for enrollment, course withdrawal, and graduation. Policies are subject to change.

It is your responsibility to be familiar with the information presented in this catalog, and to know and observe all regulations and procedures relating to the program you are pursuing. In no case will a regulation be waived or an exception granted because you plead ignorance of, or contend that you were not informed of the regulations or procedures.

At the very minimum, you must satisfy the requirements of the catalog in force at the time you are admitted to and begin course work in a degree program. Although courses required under your initial catalog may be discontinued or revised due to labor market demands and/or technology changes, your program coordinator must approve any course substitutions. Please note: Due to continuous curriculum improvement activities and rapid instructional technology advancements, you are encouraged to graduate under the catalog in effect at the time of your graduation in order to be the most prepared for your subsequent endeavor. Please see your program coordinator or academic advisor for assistance.

Technology Resources Policy

All College students, faculty, staff or other personnel who use or have access to the College's technology resources, including but not limited to computers (e.g. desktops and portable computers, servers, networks, printers, software and data storage media), e-mail, voicemail, facsimile machines, photocopiers and Internet access (collectively, technology resources) should be familiar with, and must comply with, these policies.

Confidentiality and Access Policies

The College's technology resources store confidential information. Access to this confidential infor­mation is granted to users only in connection with the College's function as an educational institution. Users may access and use the information only for proper purposes and must respect and maintain the confidentiality of that information. Users may not leak, place, post, transmit, or otherwise disclose confidential, sensitive, or proprietary College information, or any private information relating to any individual College employees, contractors, or students, to anyone outside of the College by any means, at any time, or for any reason.

Types of Software used at College and Software Policies Third Party Software

All third party oftware used by the College is proprietary to the third party vendor, is protected by copyright and/or trade secret law, and is subject to the terms of the specific software license agreement entered into by the College with the third party vendor with respect to that software. In general, these software license agreements expressly forbid copying of the soft ware, forbid the use of unauthorized copies of the software, may restrict the use of software to particu lar hardware, and may limit the computers upon which the software may be used or the number of concurrent users of such software. In some cases, the College's licenses permit certain limited use by students, faculty or staff on home or portable computers. Violation of the provisions of software agreements and or copyright law can subject the College and individuals to substantial damage claims and possible criminal penalties.

Copying of Software. The College prohibits any unauthorized duplication of all software owned or licensed by College. No user may, without proper authorization, duplicate the software that is loaded on his or her computer's hard disk for use on any other PC without consulting with and obtaining written authorization from the Academic Computing/Helpdesk staff.

Installation of Unauthorized Software. College computer users may install software on College hardware with prior written authorization from the Academic Computing/Helpdesk staff. Such approval will be granted unless there is a substantial danger of system or network conflicts, configuration changes, etc. Any maintenance required by a PC that was caused by the installation of unauthorized software will be placed at the bottom of the priority list for repair by the Academic Computing/Helpdesk Staff.

File-Sharing. Users may not post, upload, download, transmit, distribute, or engage in any "file-sharing" of any data or files (including software, music, audiovisual clips, movies, etc.) unless such activity is consistent with all applicable licenses and approved in advance by College's Academic Computing/Helpdesk Staff.

Use of Technology Resources

The College's technology resources are property of the College, or are licensed for use by the College and are intended to be used primarily for proper educational institutional purposes.

Monitoring. The College reserves the right to monitor, inspect, access, intercept, review, and when appropriate, disclose any and all information created, entered, received, stored, viewed, accessed or transmitted via College technology resources (including without limitation in databases, data file systems, data archives, Web/Internet/Intranet sites).

Users should have no expectation of privacy in connection with the use of College technology resources, including the creation, entry, receipt, storage, accessing, viewing or transmission of data via such resources.

Passwords and Security. All passwords and security used in connection with College tech nology resources - including voice mail access codes - are College property and must be made available to the College. Users must understand that their use of passwords will not preclude access, monitoring, inspection, interception, review, or disclosure by authorized College personnel. The Col lege also may unilaterally assign and/or change passwords and personal codes. The security of the College's technology resources is every user's responsibility.

Academic Computing Staff access each PC in the College periodically to perform system maintenance. Authorized and specifically designated College employees, agents, or representatives may also inves tigate and/or monitor the use of College systems to ensure that use is consistent with our Policies. They may also override all passwords or security codes when deemed necessary.

Lawful Use. College technology resources may not be used to intentionally or unintentionally violate any local, state, federal, or national civil or criminal laws, including copyright and patent laws of any jurisdiction. Unlawful activity includes but is not limited to lotteries, raffles, betting, gambling for anything of value, and participating or facilitating in the distribution of unlawful materials. Users likewise may not upload, post, e-mail, or otherwise transmit any data that is threatening, malicious, tortuous, defamatory, libelous, obscene, or invasive of another's privacy. Users also may not upload, download, post, e-mail, or otherwise transmit any material that contains software viruses or any other computer code, files, or programs designed to interrupt, destroy, or limit the functionality of any computer software, hardware, or telecommunications equipment.

Infringement of Proprietary Rights. College computer, electronic, e-mail, and Internet resources may not be used to violate proprietary rights, including copyright, trademark, trade secret, patent, rights of publicity, or any other intellectual property rights.

NO HARASSMENT. Users are absolutely forbidden from using College technology resources in any way that may be construed to violate the College's harassment-free workplace policy or otherwise harass fellow students or other individuals. This prohibition includes sexually explicit or offensive images, messages, cartoons, jokes, ethnic or religious slurs, racial epithets or any other statement or image that might be construed as harassment or disparagement on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other status protected by law. Users are required to take all reasonable steps to avoid and eliminate receipt of any potentially offensive material; claiming to be a passive recipient of prohibited material is unacceptable. Prohibited conduct includes sending e-mail messages to someone who has requested that the user not do so.

MISREPRESENTATION OF IDENTITY. College computer, electronic, e-mail, and Internet resources may not be used to misrepresent, obscure, suppress, or replace one's identity or the origin of data or communications. For example, "spoofing" and "phishing" (e.g, constructing electronic communica tions to appear to be from someone else, including to solicit personally identifiable information from recipients) is prohibited. Each user's name, e-mail address, organizational affiliation, time and date of transmission, and related information included with electronic communications (including postings) must always reflect the true originator, time, date, and place of origination, as well as the original message's true content.

Internet Guidelines

In addition to the above terms of use, the following guidelines specifically apply to Internet usage. Members of the Lewis and Clark campus community must remember that access to the Internet is a privilege. All College Students, Faculty, Staff or other personnel who use or have access to the Internet through the College must use the Internet resources in an effective, ethical and lawful manner. The following guidelines must be adhered to by all persons whether using systems on-campus or dialing in from off-campus. Failure to do so may result in removal of your account. The account is to be closed if you are no longer associated with the College. Because of limited disk space, it is expected that you check e-mail daily and delete unnecessary messages immediately. Keep messages remaining in your electronic mailbox to a minimum. Subscribers to news and messaging groups/services have an addi tional responsibility to monitor their electronic mailbox.

Communications over the Internet. Electronic communications facilities (such as e-mail, talk, network news and Internet Relay Chat) are primarily for College activities. Each individual is responsible for his/her image on the Internet as well as the image of the College. Fraudulent, harassing, or obscene messages and/or other materials must not be transmitted over the Internet or any other network on- or off-campus. Inappropriate messages include but are not limited to the following:

Fraudulent Messages. Messages sent under an assumed name or modified address or with the intent to obscure the origin of the message.

Harassing Messages. Messages that harass an individual or group because of their sex, race, age, religious beliefs, national origin, physical attributes or sexual preference.

Obscene Messages. Messages that contain obscene or inflammatory remarks directed toward an individual or group.

Inappropriate use of Resources. No one may deliberately attempt to degrade the performance of a computer system on the Internet or to deprive authorized personnel of resources or access to any computer system.

Network configuration. No one may establish a TCP/IP resource on campus without the explicit consent of Academic Computing/Helpdesk. All addresses are administered by Academic Com­puting/Helpdesk and all users must adhere to the addressing conventions established by that depart­ment.

Security. No one may use loopholes in computer security systems or knowledge of a special pass­word to damage computer systems, obtain extra resources, take resources from another user, gain access to systems or use systems for which proper authorization has not been given.

System Accounts. Accounts are assigned to individuals and no one may use another person's account. Use of another user's account may result in automatic suspension of the account.

Financial Gain. No one may use resources of the Internet for personal financial gain by posting messages that promote the products or services of a local business or their own product or services.

Personal Technology Devices in the Classroom

In an effort to preserve the integrity of the academic environment, extraneous use of personal electronic devices (cell phones, bluetooth, PDAs, iPods, calculators, etc.) is prohibited during all class meetings. The instructor reserves the right to examine the device in instances where allegations of academic dishonesty are suspected. In emergency situations students must inform the instructor to receive permission to leave the classroom when their cellular phones vibrate (do not have cell phone ring or otherwise disturb the class).

Tuition and Fees

Residency Requirements: When enrolling at L&C, you are classified as in-district, out-of-district, out-of-state, or international student for purposes of tuition and fees.

In-District: A student is considered to be in-district if his/her legal residence is within the boundaries of L&C District No. 536 for at least 30 days prior to the start of the semester in which the student plans to enroll and for purposes other than attending college. (Documentation of tax district may be required.)

Out-of-District: A student living outside L&C District No. 536, who is a resident of the State of Illinois and does not attend L&C under the terms of a cooperative agreement or charge-back agreement, is considered an out-of-district student and will be charged the appropriate tuition rate.

Out-of-State: A student who is a resident of another state or country will be considered an out-of-state student and will be charged the appropriate tuition rate. International Student: An international student on a student Visa enrolled in 12 semester hours or more who has been issued an I-20 form will be charged the appropriate out-of-state tuition rate. International students who have been issued an I-20 to attend L&C or any other college or university may not establish eligibility for in-district tuition rates.

Employer In-District: Out-of-district and out-of-state students who receive training from, and are em­ployed by, an industry within L&C District No. 536 may qualify for in-district rates. The required form may be obtained at the Enrollment Center or any of the off-campus Community Education Centers. The in-district employer must complete a new form each semester.

Cooperative Agreements/Charge-backs: Out-of-district students who attend L&C under the terms of a cooperative agreement between L&C and another community college district, or for whom charge-back authorization has been given by the student's home district will be charged L&C's in-district tuition rate.

In-District Charge-Back: District 536 residents desiring to pursue a certificate or degree program not available at L&C may apply for charge-back tuition if they want to attend another public community college in Illinois which offers that program. If approved for charge-back, you will pay the resident tuition of the receiving institution; the L&C District will reimburse the receiving community college district for the remainder of the non-district tuition cost. Note that charge backs are available for entire programs of study, not for individual courses. Application for "Authorization for Partial Tuition Support Application" for charge-back tuition is to be made in the office of the Dean of Enrollment Services.

Out-of-District Charge-Back: If you are a resident outside District 536 approved for charge-back tuition, you will pay L&C in-district tuition and your community college district will reimburse L&C for the balance of the out-of-district tuition. You first must apply for the charge-back at the community college in your district.

Tuition and fees are established by the Board of Trustees of Community College District 536 and are subject to change.

Tuition

In-District ..............................................................$76 per credit hour
Out-of-District ......................................................$228 per credit hour
Out-of-State ..........................................................$304 per credit hour
International Student...........................................$304 per credit hour
Online Courses ...................................................$92 (maximum) per credit hour

Fees

Activity ................................................................. $7 per credit hour
Technology ........................................................ $4 per credit hour
Ecological "Green" Fee.....................................$1 per credit hour
Lab/course ......................................................... as designated
Application .......................................................... no charge
Graduation (non-refundable) .......................... $35 (one time)
Non-Credit Course ............................................ as designated
Non-Traditional Credit ....................................... $76 per credit hour granted
Returned check ................................................... $15 each
Transcript (Academic & Financial Aid) .............no charge

Tuition and fee due dates are listed in the calendar section of each Schedule of Classes. Continuing Ed courses with a prefix beginning with CE must be paid in full at the time of registration. Payment for late starting classes (generally those starting after the third week of each semester) are due seven (7) days prior to the start of the individual classes. Students using financial aid must authorize use of their grant or scholarship at the Financial Aid office and with the Bursar on the main campus in Baldwin 2450. Students who make partial payments are responsible for completing their payments within the deadlines listed.

Payment options include cash, check, debit/credit card via Bursar's Office/Community Education Centers (MasterCard, VISA, Discover, and American Express only), credit card via BlazerNet WebAdvisor (Master Card, VISA, Discover, and American Express only), Financial Aid, Installment Plan, and Employer Tuition Assistance. Check payments may not be accepted on student accounts which have had previous returned check activity.

Refund Schedule

Regular Credit Courses-Students are eligible for a 100 percent refund through the first 12 calendar days (NOT course meetings) of each course. (Calendar days include Saturdays and Sundays.) This period is extended one day for each holiday. There are no refunds thereafter. If the last day for a refund is scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday, the refund request must be postmarked by that day or presented in writing by the previous business day at the Enrollment Center or a Community Education Center.

Short Term Credit Courses-Students enrolled in short-term credit courses of less than 24 days (i.e., the number of days between the course beginning date and ending date) are eligible for a 100 percent refund through the mid-point of each course.

Continuing Education or Non-Credit courses with a CE- prefix- Students in courses that meet for four or more sessions are eligible for a 100 percent refund prior to the start of the second session. There are no refunds for courses that consist of three or fewer sessions once the course begins. Certain specialized non-credit courses may have separate and specific refund policies outlined in contractual agreements or in course outlines.

Note: When students owe money to the College, it is College policy to deduct that amount from any tuition or course refunds.