Student Handbook 2016-2017
Mission Statement................................................................................................................2
Accreditation................................................................................................................... 3-5
Welcome Message To Students..............................................................................................6
Administrative Offices...................................................................................................... 7-8
Who To See..........................................................................................................................9
2016-2017 ACADEMIC Calendar
Academic Calendar....................................................................................................... 11-22
ACADEMIC Policies & Procedures
ACA Classes & Orientation................................................................................................24
Academic Misconduct.........................................................................................................24
Academic Standing and Appeals..........................................................................................24
Attendance.........................................................................................................................26
Auditing Courses................................................................................................................28
Awarding of Credit.............................................................................................................28
Change of Major.................................................................................................................30
Grading System..................................................................................................................30
Graduation........................................................................................................................34
Honors & Awards...............................................................................................................35
Records & Registration.......................................................................................................37
COLEGE POLICIES & PROCEDURES
Children On Campus.........................................................................................................40
Communicable Disease.......................................................................................................40
Complaint Policy and Procedures.......................................................................................41
Computer Resources/Internet.............................................................................................41
Conduct............................................................................................................................45
Drug and Alcohol...............................................................................................................46
Insurance...........................................................................................................................46
Parking..............................................................................................................................46
Signs and Announcements..................................................................................................47
Student Unlawful Harassment/Discrimination Policy.........................................................47
Telephone Calls..................................................................................................................47
Theft or Loss.......................................................................................................................47
Tobacco Products................................................................................................................47
Vaccinations.......................................................................................................................48
Visitor Guidelines...............................................................................................................48
Weather Emergencies..........................................................................................................48
FACILITIES & SERVICES
Admissions & Change of Major..........................................................................................51
Advising Center..................................................................................................................51
Bookstore..........................................................................................................................52
Campus Enforcement & Campus Assistance......................................................................52
Career Services/Counseling.................................................................................................52
Computer Labs...................................................................................................................53
Cosmetology......................................................................................................................53
Disability Support Services.................................................................................................54
Distance Learning...............................................................................................................55
Financial Aid......................................................................................................................58
Food Services......................................................................................................................58
The Foundation..................................................................................................................58
High School Students (includes PCEC, REaCH)...............................................................59
IT Help Desk............................................................................................................... 59-60
Library......................................................................................................................... 60-61
Math Tutoring Lab.............................................................................................................61
Patriot Port................................................................................................................... 61-62
Polk Center.........................................................................................................................62
Records Office....................................................................................................................63
Rutherfordton Learning Center.................................................................................... 63-64
Small Business Center.........................................................................................................64
Student Activities................................................................................................................64
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Student Center...................................................................................................................65
Supplemental Instruction....................................................................................................65
Telephones.........................................................................................................................65
Testing Services...................................................................................................................65
Transcript of Record...........................................................................................................66
Tuition Payment.................................................................................................................67
Tuition Rates......................................................................................................................68
Veterans Affairs...................................................................................................................69
Website..............................................................................................................................69
Wireless Internet Access Guidelines....................................................................................69
Writing Center...................................................................................................................70
Workforce Investment Act (WIA).......................................................................................70
FINANCIAL AID
Financial Aid Programs.......................................................................................................72
Financial Aid Rules & Regulations......................................................................................72
Veteran's Affairs..................................................................................................................73
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Campus Events...................................................................................................................75
Chartered Clubs and Organizations.............................................................................. 76-78
Identification Cards............................................................................................................78
News Stories, Announcements, and Events.........................................................................79
Publications.......................................................................................................................80
Student Government Association (SGA).............................................................................81
Voter Registration...............................................................................................................81
EMERGENCY INFORMATION, CRIME AWARENES & SAFETY TIPS
Campus Enforcement and Campus Assistance....................................................................83
Commitment To Safety.......................................................................................................83
Crime Awareness ...............................................................................................................84
Emergency Information......................................................................................................84
Emergency Notification................................................................................................ 85-86
Basic Emergency Procedures...............................................................................................87
Specific Emergency Response Guidelines...................................................................... 88-92
Registered Sex Offenders.....................................................................................................93
Report a Concern/Silent Witness Procedure.......................................................................93
Reporting Criminal Activity...............................................................................................94
Resource Phone Numbers...................................................................................................95
Safety Tips.................................................................................................................... 96-98
Sexual Assault Response Team.............................................................................................99
Sexual Harassment & Violence...........................................................................................99
Title IX..................................................................................................................... 100-101
Weapons on Campus........................................................................................................101
APPENDICES
Appendix A .......... Student Rights, Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures...................... 103-110
Appendix B........... Student Records Policy........................................................................ 111-116
Appendix C...........Tuition Refund Policy and Procedures.........................................................117
Appendix D..........Crime Awareness & Statistical Report..........................................................117
Appendix E...........Distance Education Questionnaire....................................................... 118-119
Appendix F........... Copyright Infringement....................................................................... 120-121
Appendix G...........Registration/Advising Form Student Worksheet...........................................122
Appendix H.......... Student Registration Schedule.....................................................................123
Appendix I ...........Drug and Alcohol Policy...................................................................... 124-126
Appendix J ...........Textbook Purchases - Frequently Asked Questions.......................................127
Appendix K........... Complaint Policies and Procedures...................................................... 128-129
Appendix L........... Student Unlawful Harassment/Discrimination Policy.......................... 130-131
Appendix M..........Trespassing Policy................................................................................ 132-133
Appendix N.......... Intellectual Property Rights Policy...............................................................134
Glossary........................................................................................................................... 135-138
Index................................................................................................................................ 139-140
Rutherfordton Learning Center & Polk Center Campus Maps.................................................141
Rutherford Campus Map..............................................................................................Back Cover
Isothermal Comunit y College
www.isothermal.edu
Student Handbook
2016-2017
Isothermal Community College provides educational and employment opportunities without regard to veteran status, race, color,
religion, age, sex, national origin, or disability. Isothermal Community College is committed to this policy. Isothermal Community
College supports the protection available to members of its community under all applicable Federal Laws including Title VI and Title
VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Equal Pay Act of 1963, Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments, Executive Order 11246 as
amended by 11375, Title VI (section 799A) and Title VIII (section 8451) of the Public Health Service Act, Age Discrimination Act,
Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Any member of the Isothermal Community College Community believing they have been discriminated against or desiring
more information concerning these provisions and/or grievance procedures should contact:
Stephen Matheny, Vice President of Administrative Services
Isothermal Community College, P.O. Box 804, Spindale, NC 28160-0804 (828) 395-1293
The Student Handbook is provided for information purposes and is designed only to assist prospective students in planning. It does not
establish contractual relationships. Every reasonable effort is made to ensure accuracy at time of publication; however, the College may make
corrections to the contents and provisions of the student handbook at its discretion. The College reserves the right to change course offerings,
programs, policies, regulations, or requirements from time to time, consistent with applicable laws, in order to fulfill its role and mission or
to accommodate circumstances beyond its control. Changes to the student handbook may be implemented without prior notice or obligation
and are effective immediately unless otherwise stated.
Rutherford Campus
286 ICC Loop Road, P.O. Box 804, Spindale, North Carolina 28160-0804
828-286-3636
Polk Center
1255 W. Mill St., Columbus, North Carolina 28722-9445
828-894-3092
Rutherfordton Learning Center
134 Maple Street, Rutherfordton, North Carolina 28139
828-286-2218
2
Our Mission
As an integral community partner, Isothermal Community College exists to
improve life through learning by providing innovative, affordable educational
programs and offering opportunities for personal, professional, economic, and
cultural development.
VIVID DESCRIPTION
• Preparing learners for future success in a career, further education,
	
and personal enrichment
• Providing cutting edge learning and technology
• Providing choices in support services and delivery methods
• Supporting professional development opportunities
• Involving the learner in his or her own learning process(es)
• Encouraging and modeling the effective and sustainable utilization
of resources
• Working collaboratively with public education and the community
in meeting local educational goals
• Establishing partnerships to advance excellence in learning
• Maintaining a reputation of excellence that ensures the prestige of
our graduates
• Encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit across all levels of the college
VISION STATEMENT
To be the benchmark for excellence in learning, innovation, service, and economic
development.
VALUES
In improving life through learning, we recognize and accept our pivotal leadership
role by valuing:
• a shared commitment to the well-being and enrichment of individuals
• lifelong opportunities for personal and professional growth
• responsibility as a catalyst for positive economic development,
innovation, community growth, creativity, and the arts
• a climate of integrity, accountability, and respect for individuals
• a culture of collaboration and communication
• achievement realized through perseverance, critical thinking,
and personal responsibility for learning
• diversity and the exchange of ideas
• excellence in programs and services
• assessment and the spirit of reflection
• the elimination of barriers to learning
• the learning college culture
3
Accredit ati on
Isothermal Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges
of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
to award associate degrees.
Inquiries relating to the accreditation status of the College may be made to
Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866
Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, telephone number 404-679-
4500 at http://www.sacscoc.org. As a requirement for on-going accreditation,
member colleges must go through an accreditation reaffirmation process every
ten years. This means that college personnel review policies and practices of the
College to assure that operations are in compliance with SACSCOC principles.
Qualit y Enhancement Plan
A Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) is a required part of our 2016 Reaffirmation
with the Southeastern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on
Colleges (SACSCOC). At its core, a QEP is both a process and a report that
identifies a key student learning need and demonstrates that the College can
initiate, set, and assess significant goals through a process involving broad-based
input.
Our QEP is titled "Start Strong. Finish Stronger." and is built on recent
research that has shown that students who start their college experience well
complete their goals more frequently and more quickly. The focus statement of
our QEP is empowering students to complete their educational goals through
comprehensive educational planning. We desire all new students to participate
in orientation, which will prepare them for Isothermal's policies, procedures,
and culture. It will also introduce students to the technology they will be using
throughout their experience at Isothermal. Next, students will take one of our
enhanced ACA courses where they will clarify their educational goal and develop
a semester-by-semester plan to achieve their goal. Throughout their time at
Isothermal, students will follow up with an advisor to verify their progress and
modify their plan if needed. We believe that starting students with orientation,
ACA, and advising will improve their overall experience at Isothermal and lead
to finishing stronger. From the Fall of 2016 to Spring 2020, we will implement
our QEP and analyze its effect.
4
The Isothermal Distinction
Students who complete programs at Isothermal Community College are expected
to be able to function effectively as contributing citizens of our society. Our
programs, regardless of their content areas, are designed to enable graduates to
achieve the following general competencies:
• Communicate effectively through writing, speaking, and through
	
demonstration of information literacy
• Analyze problems and make valid conclusions
• Demonstrate quantitative skills
• Demonstrate basic technology skills
• Perform technical skills in their chosen occupations
We also value, promote, and emphasize the following soft skills:
• Demonstrate positive interpersonal skills through cooperative learning
and group interaction
• Use critical listening skills to understand, evaluate, and respond
appropriately to verbal communication
• Develop an awareness of global issues and the interconnectedness
and interdependence of persons, places, and events on earth from a
current as well as historical perspective
Achieving these competencies requires a commitment on the part of both
Isothermal and its students to the satisfaction of certain goals and expectations.
What Students Can Expect of Isothermal
In their commitment to learning and to the achievement of a true learning centered
community, Isothermal personnel will:
• Meet student needs by demonstrating professional, friendly, and
courteous service in all aspects of student life
• Maintain high professional and academic standards
• Serve as role models in the development of leadership skills
• Respect diversity and treat all students fairly
• Be available to students and helpful with student problems
• Communicate clear learning objectives and expected outcomes
• Provide timely feedback in the assessment of learning outcomes
• Stay current in subject matter
• Practice efective teaching/learning strategies that promote critical
thinking
5
What Isothermal Expects of Students
In their commitment to learning, students will:
• Accept responsibility for learning
• Attend and participate in all classes
• Complete required exercises and assignments as directed
• Develop a time management plan that includes adequate time
for study
• Maintain an open-minded attitude toward learning
• Strive to become independent critical thinkers
• Seek help as needed from appropriate sources
• Be respectful and considerate of others
• Assume responsibility for knowing and adhering to all college policies
• Acknowledge that learning how to learn is the ultimate objective of
education
• Recognize that struggle and discomfort often precede the rewards that
accompany goal completion and success
With this commitment on the part of all concerned, an exciting partnership
will grow and thrive, thus creating a community of learners whose mission is to
improve life through learning.
Notice of Availabilit y of Institutional
AND Financial Aid Informat i on
Isothermal Community College distributes consumer information to students
through a variety of sources, including the College Catalog and Student
Handbook. For the convenience of students, Isothermal has also created a
web page to provide quick and easy access to institutional and financial aid
information. This resource is available at www.isothermal.edu/current-students/
consumer-information/. Printed paper copies are available upon request in
Student Services.
6
Welcome Message To Students
We realize that attending college may be a new and confusing experience
for you, and it can be frustrating to try to find answers to the many questions
you have. This Student Handbook may not answer all of your questions, but
it’s a good place to begin to find help in a hurry. In addition to being a handy
academic planner, this handbook contains other information which is organized
in sections according to topic: Introduction, Academic Calendar, Academic
Information, College Policies & Procedures, Facilities and Services, Student
Activities, Emergency Information, Crime Awareness & Safety Tips, and
Appendixes, Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Judicial Procedures (Appendix
A); Student Records Policy (Appendix B); Tuition Refund Policy and Procedures
(Appendix C); Crime Awareness & Statistical Report (Appendix D); Distance
Education (Appendix E); Copyright Infringement (Appendix F); Registration/
Advising Student Worksheet (Appendix G); Registration Form (Appendix H);
Drug and Alcohol Policy (Appendix I); Textbook Purchases - Frequently Asked
Questions; (Appendix J); Complaint Policies and Procedures (Appendix K);
Student Unlawful Harassment/Discrimination Policy (Appendix L); Trespassing
Policy (Appendix M), and Intellectual Property Rights Policy (Appendix N).
Please take a few minutes to look through your Student Handbook. You’ll be
surprised at all the information it contains. If you still have questions, or cannot
find the help you need, do not hesitate to talk with your advisor, instructors, or
other college staff. Remember, we want your experience at Isothermal Community
College to be positive and successful. No matter what goals or expectations you
have set for yourself, we’re here to help you meet them.
finish
start STSRTORONGN.GER.
7
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES
Office of the President
President.................................................................................................Walter Dalton
Academic and Student Services
and Institutional Assessment.................................................... Dr. Kimberly Gold,
Executive Vice President
Administrative Assistant to the President..........................................DeeDee Barnard
Administrative Services...........................................Stephen Matheny, Vice President
Community and Workforce Development, College Advancement
and Director of Alumni Affairs...................................Thad Harrill, Vice President
Marketing and Community Relations........................................ Mike Gavin, Director
Academic services
Academic Development.................................................................Debbie Puett, Dean
Applied Sciences and Engineering Technology............................... Joe Looney, Dean
Arts and Sciences.............................................................. Dr. Kathy Ackerman, Dean
Business Sciences......................................................................Kim Alexander, Dean
Foothills Nursing Consortium..............................................Dr. Kelly Jones, Director
Health and Public Services.................................................... Dr. Johnny Smith, Dean
Licensed Practical Nurse Program.....................................................................Vacant
Polk County Early College.......................................................Tamara Black, Liaison
Rutherford Early College High School................... Meredith Moore, College Liaison
STUDENT SERVICES......................................................Dr. Karen Jones, Dean
Enrollment Management/Admissions................................ Diane Dickerson, Director
Financial Aid............................................................................. Pamela Ellis, Director
Financial Aid/Veteran Affairs................................................. Lisa Bridges,Counselor
Financial Aid ..................................................................Reagan Bowman, Counselor
Intramural and Athletics.................................................Chuck Summey, Coordinator
Powers Scholarship Program..............................................Karen Harris, Coordinator
Registrar ..............................................................................................Vanessa Capps
Student Activities.................................................................Ruth Colnot, Coordinator
Student Services ...................................................................Joel Ekstrom, Counselor
Student Services Specialist....................................................................Cheryl Lawter
LEARNING SUPPORT AND RETENTION........Kimberly Snyder, Director
Advising........................................................................... Jessie Fletcher, Coordinator
Disability and Career Services......................................... Alfreda Lindsey, Counselor
Pre-Health Sciences..................................................................... Tina Porter, Advisor
Success Coach .........................................................................Lisa Courtney, Advisor
Testing............................................................................. Paula Rogalski, Coordinator
First In The World Grant..............................................Marin Crosbie, Success Coach
8
WORKFORCE AND COMUNITY EDUCATION
College & Career Readiness.................................................Pamela Bradley, Director
College & Career Readiness Transition..........................Lauren Mooney, Coordinator
Continuing Education.................................................................... Donna Hood, Dean
Customized Training...............................................................Mark Franklin, Director
Emergency Services........................................................ Jonathan Bland, Coordinator
Grants and College Development and Fundraising.............Sarah Morse, Coordinator
Nursing Assistant and Allied Health.......................... Betsy Cuthbertson, Coordinator
Performing Arts and Conference Center................................Russell Wicker, Director
Polk Center............................................................................ Kate Barkschat, Director
Small Business Center...............................................................Faye Bishop, Director
ADMINISTRATIVE AND SUPPORT SERVICES
Assessment, Planning and Research.............................. Anne Oxenreider, Director of
Institutional Assessment and Accreditation
Business Office...................................................................... Amy Penson, Controller
Campus Enforcement.......................................................................Officer Bob Davis
Officer Robert Owens
Campus Print Shop................................................................... Susan Straw, Manager
Human Resources.................................................................... Cindy Moore, Director
Information Technology......................................................... Robby Walters, Director
Library................................................................................. Charles Wiggins, Director
Plant Operations & Maintenance............................................ Rick Edwards, Director
WNCW Director of Radio Operations......................................David Kester, Director
For complete college directory, visit www.isothermal.edu.
Special thanks to the Advertising and Graphic Design students whoose graphic design and photography are featured within this handbook.
Evan Cooper, cover design. Title page photo credits, Austin Jackson, page 39 and Lynn Star-Vaisquez, page 50 & 82.
This Student Handbook is produced by the Campus Print Shop of Isothermal Community College.
6/2016/3,000/$3,090.00@ $1.03 per copy
9
Who To Se
For: Go to: Located in:
Academic record Student Services Office Student Center
Academic advising Your Advisor/Advising Center
Adult High School/
Non-credit courses Continuing Education The Foundation
Books to purchase Bookstore Student Center
Campus Safety Campus Enforcement Student Center
Career assistance Learning Support and Retention Student Center
Career & College Promise College Liaisons
for High School Programs
Change of major Learning Support and Retention Student Center
Complaints/Conduct Concerns Student Services Office Student Center
Complete high school Continuing Education The Foundation
Counseling Learning Support and Retention Student Center
Disability Services Learning Support and Retention Student Center
Emergency Assistance & Campus Enforcement Student Center
Emergency Procedures (828)289-5850, 9-911 if you are
using campus telephone system
English as a Second Language Continuing Education The Foundation
Food & Drink Vending All Buildings
Financial aid Financial Aid Office Student Center
GED Continuing Education The Foundation
Graduation application Student Services Office Student Center
Graduation information Your Advisor/Records Office Student Center
Graduation orders Bookstore Student Center
Gym Student Activities Coordinator Student Center
Hair/Nail services Cosmetology Student Center
HRD classes Continuing Education The Foundation
IT Help Desk Library/Business Sciences Library/Bus Sci
In-state/out-of-state tuition status Admissions Office Student Center
Lost and found Departmental Offices, Library,
Administration, Custodians
Name/address changes Student Services Office Student Center
Organize a student activity Student Activities Coordinator Student Center
Pre-Health Sciences Learning Support and Retention Student Center
Registering/schedule adjustments Your Advisor/Advising Center
Show tickets Performing Arts Center/Box Office The Foundation
Student Government Association Student Activities Coordinator Student Center
Testing Services Learning Support and Retention Student Center
Transcripts Student Services Office Student Center
Transfer Credit Student Services Office Student Center
Tuition, fees, payments Business Office Administration
Tutoring services Academic Development Administration
Veterans Affairs Financial Aid Office Student Center
Withdraw from College Instructor/Records Office Student Center
Writing Center Room 211 Administration
2016-2017
ACADEMIC Calendar
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AUGUST 2016 September
S M T W T F S
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Tuesday 	 • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Thursday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes • Health Sciences information meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday 	 • Student/Faculty Break 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
	
Monday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Tuesday 	 • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
	
Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Thursday 	 • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
	
Friday 	 • Student/Faculty Break 	 • College Closed
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday • Convocation - Faculty/Staff 	 • College Closed
Tuesday 	 • Last Chance Registration for Fall Semester
Wednesday • Last Chance Registration for Fall Semester • New Student Orientation 9:30 am and 5:30 pm
Thursday 	 • First Day of Classes
	
Friday 	 • Schedule Adjustments
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 	 • Advanced Placement Associate Degree Nursing deadline
Wednesday
Thursday
	
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Last day to drop with a 75% refund for full session/ Financial Aid census date
Tuesday
Wednesday
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SEPTEMBER 2016 October
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Saturday
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Monday • Labor Day Holiday - College Closed
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Advanced Placement ADN Challenge Exam
Friday
	
Saturday
	
Sunday 	 • Patriot Day
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • Financial Aid Disbursement Day • Constitution Day
Saturday 	 • Constitution Day & Citizenship Day
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
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Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Keep an eye on your
student email for
information regarding
special event(s) planned
for Constitution Day!
Don't forget to
register to vote!
See www.ncsbe.gove
for more information
13
OCTOBER 2016 November
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Monday • Spring 2017 class schedule available on Patriot Port
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Columbus Day
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Professional Development Day for Faculty & Staff • College Closed
Friday 	 • Student/Faculty Fall Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Grub Day
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • Last day to apply for 2016 Fall graduation
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Advanced Placement ADN Final Selection Letter Due Out
Tuesday 	 • Educational Planning Day - No Classes
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Spring 2017 Registration Opens • Go to Patriot Port for class schedule and registration • Halloween
Make an appointment
with your advisor to
plan your classes for
next semester!
REGISTRATION OPEN
Oct 31 - Dec 2
14
NOVEMBER 2016 December
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Monday
Tuesday 	 • Election Day
Wednesday
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Friday 	 T • Veterans Day
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Last Day to Drop with a "W" for full session
Friday 	 • Financial Aid Priority Deadline for Spring 2017
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed
Thursday 	 • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed
Friday 	 • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
See your advisor for
educational planning and
registration clearance.
REGISTRATION OPEN
Oct 31 - Dec 2
Advanced Placement RN
Accepted Students -
Medical forms due to
advisor by Nov. 7th
15
DECEMBER 2016 January
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Thursday 	 • Learning College Student of the Semester
Friday 	 • 2017 Spring Registration Closes
Saturday 	 • Saturday
Sunday
Monday 	 uesday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences info meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday
	
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Last Day of Classes
Friday 	 • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Tuesday 	 • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes
Thursday 	 • Winter Break - College Closed
Friday 	 • Winter Break - College Closed
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday • Winter Break - College Closed
Tuesday 	 • Winter Break - College Closed
Wednesday • Winter Break - College Closed
Thursday 	 • Winter Break - College Closed
Friday 	 • Winter Break - College Closed
Saturday
REGISTRATION OPEN
Oct 31 - Dec 2
16
JANUARY 2017
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Sunday 	 • New Years Day
Monday • Winter Break - College Closed
	
Tuesday 	 • Work Day - Faculty/Staff • No Classes
Wednesday • Last Chance Registration for Spring Semester
Thursday 	 • Last Chance Registration for Spring Semester • New Student Orientation 9:30 am and 5:30 pm
Friday 	 • First Day of Classes • Schedule Adjustments
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday • Schedule Adjustments
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday
	
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Martin Luther King Holiday - College Closed
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Last day to drop with a 75% refund for full session/FA census date A• ssociate Degree Nursing (RN) Deadline
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
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Tuesday
February
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FEBRUARY 2017 March
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Monday • LPN to RN (Fast Track 1+1) Deadline
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Professional Development Day - Faculty/Staff • No classes for Students • College Closed
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • PSB Exam for RN students (if notified)
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 	 • Valentine's Day
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • President's Day
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 6:00 pm, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday 	 • Financial Aid Disbursement Day
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
18
MARCH 2017 April
S M T W T F S
					 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30
1
2
3
4
5
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10
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12
13
14
15
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17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Wednesday • Summer & Fall class schedule available on Patriot Port
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • Last day to apply for 2017 Spring graduation
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday
	
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • St. Patrick's Day
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Letters of Acceptance to Associate Degree Nursing program will be mailed to applicants by ADN Director
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Sports Day
Thursday
	
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 	 • Educational Planning Day for Current Students- No Classes
Wednesday
Thursday
Firday
	
Make an appointment
with your advisor
to plan your classes
for Summer & Fall
semester!
19
APRIL 2017 May
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
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13
14
15
16
17
18
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20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Saturday
	
Sunday
Monday • 2017 Summer & Fall Registration Opens
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Last Day to Drop with a "W" for full session
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Deadline LPN program
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Graduation Summer 2017 deadline if participating in May graduation • Challenge Exam Fast Track RN (if notified)
Friday 	 • Spring Holiday - College Closed
Saturday
	
Sunday
	
Monday • Spring Holiday - College Closed
Tuesday 	 • Spring Break - Students/Faculty • No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Wednesday • Spring Break - Students/Faculty • No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Thursday 	 • Spring Break - Students/Faculty • No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Friday 	 • Spring Break - Students/Faculty • No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 6:00 pm, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday • 2017 Summer & Fall Registration Closes • Financial Aid Priority Deadline for Summer 2017
Saturday
Sunday
REGISTRATION OPEN
April 3 - 28
ADN Medical Forms
due to advisor by
April 13th.
20
MAY 2017 June
S M T W T F S
			 1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
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12
13
14
15
16
17
18
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20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Acceptance Letters Mailed Out for Fast Track LPN to RN Program
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday
	
Saturday
Sunday
	
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Last Day of Classes
Thursday 	 • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes • HESI Exam for LPN Students (if notified)
Friday 	 • Student/Faculty Break 	 • REaCH Graduation • HESI Exam for LPN Students (if notified)
Saturday
Sunday 	 • Mother's Day
Monday • Curriculum Graduation
Tuesday 	 • Adult High School and GED Graduation • Last Chance Registration for Summer
Wednesday • First Day of Classes • Schedule AdjustmentsThursday
Thursday
Friday 	 • Summer Hours Begin • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 	 • Last Day to Drop with a 75% refund for full session/Financial Aid census date
Wednesday
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Memorial Day Holiday • College Closed
Tuesday
Wednesday
Fast Track (1+1) LPN to
RN Accepted Students -
Medical forms due to
advisor by May10th
21
JUNE 2017 July
S M T W T F S
					 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
1
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20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences info meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • 2017 Fall Registration Opens
Tuesday
	
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Graduation deadline Summer 2017
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
	
Monday
Tuesday
	
Wednesday • Financial Aid Disbursement Day
Thursday
	
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday 	 • Father's Day
Monday • Letters of Acceptance to LPN Program will be mailed to applicants by PNE-Director
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Financial Aid Priority Deadline for Fall 2017
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
REGISTRATION OPEN
June 5 - July 13
22
JULY 2017 August
S M T W T F S
	 1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 	 • Independence Day Holiday - College Closed
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Last Day to Drop with a "W" for full session
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Payment week for Fall 2017
Tuesday 	 • Payment week for Fall 2017
Wednesday • Payment week for Fall 2017
Thursday 	 • 2017 Fall Registration Closes • Payment Due for Fall 2017
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday 	 • Health Sciences information meeting at 10:00 am, Student Center, Rm 9
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday 	 • Last Day of Classes
Wednesday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes
Thursday 	 • Student/Faculty Break
Friday 	 • College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Student/Faculty Break
REGISTRATION OPEN
June 5 - July 13
ACA Classes & Orientation
Academic Misconduct
Academic Standing & Appeals
Attendance
Auditing Courses
Awarding Credit
Change of Major
Grading System
Graduation
Honors & Awards
Program Updates
Records & Registration
Academic Policies
& Procedures
24
Isothermal Community College publishes academic policies and procedures that
adhere to principles of good educational practice. These policies and procedures
are disseminated to students, faculty, and other interested parties through the
College Website and publications that are available in both digital and print
format including the College Catalog and Student Handbook.
ACA Classes and Orientation
Isothermal offers two student success courses, ACA 115 & ACA 122. These ACA
courses provide an extensive orientation, not only to the College, but also to
the first year college experience, with a focus on problem solving, goal-setting,
educational planning, and career and college exploration. It is recommended that
degree seeking students enroll in an ACA course within their first two semesters.
As part of our efforts to provide the best opportunity for our students to start
strong, Isothermal requires students to participate in mandatory orientation.
Students are encouraged to participate in a face-to-face orientation offered dur-ing
the fall and spring semester. An online orientation is also available. Ori-entation
familiarizes students with campus procedures and resources and offers
information and assistance to help students succeed in college. A student may
be exempted from orientation if the student is currently classified as a College
and Career Promise (CCP), Early College, Occupational Education Associate
(Lateral Entry), or Special Credit student. A student may also be exempted from
participating in orientation if the student has graduated from an Isothermal
program less than five years prior to enrolling in a new program. This exemption
does not include CCP.
Information sessions about Moodle and Patriot Port are available at the beginning
of each semester to help students become familiar with Isothermal’s technical
resources. Also, Successful Entry and Transition (SET) Sessions are informational
sessions offered at the high schools to help students transition to college and
become familiar with campus resources.
ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT
All forms of academic misconduct may result in sanctions. For more information
regarding academic misconduct and related sanctions and disciplinary procedures,
please refer to Appendix A.
Academic St a nding and app ea ls
Rules and regulations regarding academic standing, suspension, and length
of suspension approved by the President. (Board approved policy: Academic
standing 401-02-00BP)
Academic Policies & Procedures
25
Academic Alert
Students whose grade point average (GPA) falls below a 2.0 are placed on
academic alert. Students on academic alert may benefit from familiarizing
themselves with two important college procedures: Academic Fresh Start and
Course Repeat. Students who repeat classes are encouraged to review their
transcripts carefully to ensure that previously earned lower grade(s) have been
removed from grade point average calculation. Students on academic alert
should also consider academic load as well as assistance available through
Student Services, Supplemental Instruction, and Academic Advisors.
In order to alert faculty and staff advisors that students are struggling
academically, the Records Office will flag records in Colleague as notification
when student GPAs fall below a 2.0.
Potential Consequences related to ongoing academic alert
There will be times when student academic performance is chronically poor,
e.g., student is performing at or below 1.0 in consecutive semesters. Academic
advisors may refer these students to the Dean of Students who will evaluate
the progress of the student and may refer the student to the Committee on
Admissions, Academic Continuation, and Records. This committee may (1)
approve continued enrollment under specified circumstances or (2) suspend
the enrollment of the student for a specified time frame. After observing
the suspension period, the student must seek approval from the Dean of
Students. The Dean of Students may refer the decision to the Committee
on Admissions, Academic Continuation, and Records prior to re-entering.
Academic Standing
Guidelines may vary by program, e.g., Career and College Promise, Basic
Law Enforcement Training (BLET), and health sciences. Information
regarding academic standing guidelines by program is available in specific
department areas.
Academic Standing Appeal
A student may appeal a decision on academic standing. An appeal should
be submitted in writing to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students
may refer the appeal to the Committee on Admissions, Academic Continu-ation,
and Records. The student may further appeal this decision to the Vice
President of Academic and Student Services and Institutional Assessment.
The decision of the Vice President will be final.
Academic Policies & Procedures
26
Attendance
Regular class attendance is a student obligation and essential to receive maximum
benefit from the educational experience. The student is expected to attend and
be on time for all classes and lab, shop, and/or clinic sessions. The student is
also responsible for all work, including tests and written assignments, and for
all class meetings.
Administrative Withdrawal
An instructor, in consultation with the appropriate instructional administra-tor,
may administratively withdraw any student whose cumulative absences
exceed 20% of the scheduled class hours for the semester. The withdrawal
must be made by the drop deadline published in the Academic Calendar.
The student will receive a grade of W#. In case of extenuating circumstances,
a student who has been withdrawn from a course for excessive absences
may be re-admitted to class with the permission of the instructor and the
appropriate Dean/Director. Re-admission will be considered on a class-by-class
basis. The instructor and/or department dean or director must notify
the Records Office in writing requesting readmission.
Class Attendance Policies
Instructors establish their own class attendance policy. This attendance policy
should be explained in detail at the beginning of the course and should include
the relationship of absences to grades. Instructors maintain records for the
full duration of each course to document student attendance. Students who
stop going to class without officially withdrawing may receive a grade of “F”
at the end of the semester. (Reference Drop/Withdrawal Policy 401-02-04AP)
It should be noted that some programs have outside regulatory bodies that
require a minimum of course attendance hours (i.e. BLET, Cosmetology).
Students whose cumulative absences exceed 20% of scheduled class hours
for the semester may also be subject to administrative withdrawal.
Class Entry Prior to the Census Date
Students enrolled in any course regardless of delivery method must attend
or complete the mandatory course enrollment by the 10% point (census)
of the course. Students who fail to attend prior to the census date will be
removed from the class roster and recorded as a No Show. Students removed
from a course for failure to enter prior to the census date will not be issued
a refund for the course. (1E SBCCC 900.1 Curriculum Tuition Refunds)
Students receiving financial aid should consult with a financial aid counselor
to determine the impact of the No Show designation on their financial aid
eligibility and obligations.
Academic Policies & Procedures
27
Academic Policies & Procedures
Students enrolled in online courses must complete the Mandatory Course
Enrollment Assignment on the first day of the term. This requirement has
been implemented by the institution in an effort to comply with Federal
Financial Aid regulations.
“In a distance education context, documenting that a student has logged into
an online class is not sufficient, by itself, to demonstrate academic attendance
by the student. A school must demonstrate that a student participated in
class or was otherwise engaged in an academically related activity, such as
by contributing to an online discussion or initiating contact with a faculty
member to ask a course‐related question.” Federal Student Aid Handbook
2013‐2014, Volume 5, 5‐60.
Failure to complete the mandatory course enrollment assignment could
result in receiving a grade of No Show (NS) for the course, and the student
will not receive a refund. Students enrolled in hybrid or web-assisted courses
must enter the course prior to the census date either by attending the course
during the scheduled face-to-face class time or by completing a Mandatory
Course Enrollment Assignment.
Curriculum Late Course Entry, Late Registration,
and Schedule Adjustments
In support of the College’s focus on learning, the College ensures that
students have an opportunity to be academically successful in each course.
The faculty and academic administrators are in the best position to make
decisions concerning students’ ability to complete coursework within an
allotted time. Therefore, students will not be allowed to add/change sections
after the schedule adjustments deadline listed in the Academic Calendar.
In addition, a student will not be allowed to enter a course past the census
date regardless of registration status.
Students may officially drop a course(s) without academic penalty and receive
a grade of ‘W’ if this drop is made before the drop deadline as published
in the Academic Calendar. Courses that meet on a schedule other than a
sixteen week semester may have a different drop deadline.
Following the Schedule Adjustment Period, a student may formally withdraw
from a class or the College by completing a withdrawal form which can be
obtained from the Records Office or any academic department. The student
should notify the course instructor(s) of his/her withdrawal.
Any individual course dropped after the published deadline must be ap-proved
by the Executive Vice President. The drop/add and drop deadlines
are different for Academic Development and other classes that have non-standard
beginning and ending dates and may not meet for the full duration
of the semester.
28
School Absence for Religious Reasons
Isothermal Community College recognizes the right of students to be absent
from class for religious reasons. Students may request a maximum of two
excused class days per academic year for observations required by his/her
faith. In accordance with this right, the President has established procedures
for requesting, document and excusing religious absences.
Auditing Courses
If you wish to audit (take a class without credit), you must register through
the regular procedure and must meet all course prerequisites and attendance
requirements as other students. Audits will be charged the same fee as taking
classes for credit. Notify your instructor when you begin the class. AN AUDIT
CANOT BE CHANGED TO CREDIT OR CREDIT TO AUDIT. Courses
taken as an audit may be repeated for credit only. No curriculum course may be
audited more than once.
Awarding of Credit
Transfer of credit for educational work taken at a regionally accredited institution
may be accepted. Previous course work must be submitted on an official transcript.
Credit will normally be allowed for applicable courses in which a grade of “C”
or higher has been earned. Grades of previous enrollments will not be used in
the grade point calculation of Isothermal Community College. Course work
is evaluated according to the student’s selected program. Time and program
selection may be a factor in determining credit. Some technical credits older
than 5 years or more may be subject to review by the Registrar’s Office and
appropriate faculty/dean. Courses under the 5 year limitation are determined
and reviewed by Instructional Deans, and a list is maintained in the Registrar’s
Office. Students may be requested to provide prior course descriptions and/or
documentation demonstrating required knowledge before credits are accepted.
Note: Students requiring further math classes are STRONGLY advised to take
a refresher course if it has been more than two years since completing their last
math course. For students seeking transfer credit, college transcripts must be
translated into English at the student’s expense by an agency approved by NACES
such as World Evaluation Services (WES) or Global Credential Evaluators (GCE).
Results of the transfer of credit evaluation may be appealed to the Committee
on Admissions, Academic Continuation, and Records.
Transfer students must earn 25% of the credits required for graduation in
their particular program at Isothermal Community College (see Graduation
Requirements). Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Committee
on Admissions, Academic Continuation, and Records.
All transfer students will enter the College in good academic standing. Once
enrolled, academic standing will be determined by grades on course work done
solely at Isothermal.
Academic Policies & Procedures
29
Transfer of Credit Within the Institution
Students transferring from one curriculum to another within the College
may be handled in the same manner as transfer credits from another
institution. Courses designed for satisfaction of Associate of Arts and
Associate of Science degree requirements may be accepted in Associate
of Applied Science degree programs; however, courses designed for career
preparation in Associate of Applied Science degrees, diploma, and certificates
may not apply to Associate of Arts and Associate of Science programs. A
list of courses approved for Arts and Sciences credit is maintained in the
office of the Dean of Arts and Sciences. Cumulative grade point averages
are normally continued when changing programs. The GPA for graduation
is based only on the courses required in the program.
Other Credit
Credit may also be given in the occupational areas for noncollegiate
and military educational experiences. These educational experiences
will be evaluated on the basis of the current editions of College Credit
Recommendations and The Guide To Evaluation of Educational Experiences
in The Armed Services. Time and program selection may be a factor in
determining credit. A maximum of 16 semester hours may be awarded.
(Also, see requirements for the Occupational Education Associate Program.)
Credit by Examination
Any student at Isothermal Community College may receive course credit by
examination through one of the following four methods: 1) Challenge Exam,
2) CLEP Exam, 3) Advanced Placement Exams, or 4) North Carolina High
School to Community College Articulation Agreement, or 5) Diagnostic
Exam in Academic Development courses.
Challenge Exam
A student may request permission through the appropriate instructional
dean to challenge a course through a comprehensive exam for credit. Only
those courses for which tests have been developed and have been filed in the
dean’s office may be challenged. The procedure for challenging is as follows:
1. The student must be registered for the course, have paid proper
tuition, and have approval of the instructor.
2. If the exam is failed, the student must continue the course.
3. A course may be challenged only once and must be done during the
first week of class.
4. If the exam is passed, the student’s grade must be submitted to the
Student Records Office during the first two weeks of the semester.
This grade will be recorded as a “CE”. (Note: “CE” grades are
not acceptable for the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement
between the North Carolina Community College System and the
UNC system.)
Academic Policies & Procedures
30
Advanced Placement (AP) and
College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
College credit may be awarded if appropriate conditions are met by Ad-vanced
Placement (AP) or College Level Examination Program (CLEP)
test scores. Isothermal academic credit will be granted to enrolled students
who receive scores of 3 or higher on the AP tests offered by the College
Board. CLEP is granted for scores of 50th percentile or higher. Credit may
be considered only for those courses which are in the student’s academic
program. AP and CLEP credit accepted at other post-secondary institu-tions
is not automatically transferred to Isothermal but is reviewed when
official scores are received.
North Carolina High School to
Community College Articulation Agreement
North Carolina high school graduates may be awarded college credits for
certain high school courses when transferring to Isothermal Community
College. Criteria is controlled by Department of Public Instruction and the
NC Community College System and is subject to change without notice.
The following criteria must be met to receive credit:
1. Grade of B or higher in the high school course
2. A scaled score of 93 or higher on the standardized VoCATS
post-assessment
3. In order to receive articulated credit, students must enroll at
	
Isothermal within two years of their high school graduation date.
4. Apply to Isothermal Community College in a related major
Change of major
Program changes should be initiated by the student in consultation with Learn-ing
Support and Retention, an academic advisor, and Financial Aid Counselor
(when applicable). Program changes must be recorded in the Admissions Office.
Changing a major will update the catalog of record to the current catalog year.
Students are responsible for monitoring progress in their program of study and
ensuring that they are taking classes within their major for the correct catalog
year. Financial aid amounts dispersed to students are subject to reduction for any
classes not required for their major. Students are encouraged to seek assistance
from college personnel and Program Evaluation resources on Patriot Port to
clarify program requirements.
Academic Policies & Procedures
31
Grading System (Current)
Instructors are responsible for establishing their own grading policy in accordance
with the college's letter grade system with qualitative descriptions.
Grade Significance Grade Value
A Excellence 4.0
B Above Average 3.0
C Average 2.0
D Below Average 1.0
F Failed 0
W Withdrawn 0
I Incomplete 0
R Repeat 0
R* Re-enroll DMA class 0
Y No-credit-Audit 0
NS No Show
CE Credit By Exam
CR Transfer Credit
* Academic Development Credit
% Granted an Academic Fresh Start
# Administrative Withdrawal
Academic Fresh Start
Any Isothermal Community College student who has experienced a lapse in
enrollment at the college for a period of at least three consecutive academic
years may petition in writing to have grades older than three years old and
below “C” disregarded in calculating the GPA. Following re-enrollment, the
student must complete at least twelve (12) semester hours with a minimum
grade point average of 2.0 prior to requesting an academic fresh start.
In some instances students who change majors and complete two (2) aca-demic
semesters with at least twelve (12) semester hours and a 2.0 GPA in
the new major may petition for an academic fresh start even if there has
not been a lapse in enrollment.
The student requesting a fresh start should complete an application for
Academic Fresh Start that is available in the Student Services office. Students
may be granted an academic fresh start only once. An academic review
committee will consider the request and determine the student's eligibility
for grade forgiveness. If the request is approved, the record of earlier course
work will remain on the student transcript. However, these grades will be
removed from GPA calculation. Students transferring to another college
should contact the institution to determine the impact of Academic Fresh
Start on transfer. Fresh start GPA calculations are not used in determining
eligibility for student financial aid.
Academic Policies & Procedures
32
Credit Hour Determination & Definition
Isothermal Community College makes determinations regarding credit hours
and credit awarded consistent with the NC State Board of Community
Colleges policy 1G SBCCC 100.1. Course descriptions and credit hours,
lab hours, clinical hours and contact hours are scheduled for course delivery
consistent with the NC Community College System Combined Course
Library. Credit hours awarded for each class and hours required for program
completion are described in the college catalog.
Course Repeat
Courses with earned grades of “D” or “F” may be repeated. Courses with
earned grade of “C” or better may be repeated only by special permission
from the Vice President for Academic and Student Services and Institutional
Assessment. When a course has been repeated, the higher grade will be
counted. Physical education credit classes may not be taken for a grade of
“audit.” Credit students may not receive more than five physical education
credits. Exceptions for physical education majors may be granted by the Vice
President for Academic and Student Services and Institutional Assessment.
Non-credit recreation classes offered through Continuing Education may be
repeated at will. Courses taken as audit may be repeated for credit only. No
course may be audited more than once. Students receiving Veterans benefits
can only receive benefits for repeated courses if the prior grade is an “F”.
Grade Appeals
A student, after conferring with the instructor concerned, may present a
grade appeal in writing. See Appendix A for information regarding the
grade appeal process.
Grade Changes
Instructors have total responsibility and authority for the assigning of grades.
The policy regarding incomplete grades is stated in the College catalog. No
other grade may be changed by an instructor once the grade has been given
without the consent of the Executive Vice President.
Academic Policies & Procedures
33
Grade Point Average (GPA)
To compute your cumulative average, multiply credit hours times grade value
to get total grade points for each course. Divide the total grade points for all
courses by the total number of enrolled credit hours.
Grade Reports
Your final grade report will be available online through Patriot Port at the
completion of each semester.
Incomplete Policy
A grade of “I” is assigned when the course work is incomplete. Unless the
instructor has established an earlier time line for completion, this grade must
be removed by completing the course before the end of the following semester
or the grade automatically becomes an “F” on the permanent record. If a
student is registered for a course that requires a pre-requisite with an assigned
“I” incomplete grade, the student must complete the course by the census
date of the current term. Otherwise, the student will be administratively
dropped resulting in a reduced enrollment status and ineligibility of a tuition
refund. (Administrative approved policy: 401-02-03AP)
Average for the semester 44 ÷ 20 = 2.20
=
=
=
=
=
=
Grade
C (2)
B (3)
A (4)
D (1)
F (0)
A (4)
Credit hrs
3
3
4
5
3
2
20
x
x
x
x
x
x
Grade Points
6
9
16
5
0
8
44
Course
English
History
Biology
Math
Spanish
P.E.
Grade Point Average Example:
Academic Policies & Procedures
34
GraduatioN
Graduation exercises to award degrees, diplomas, and certificates to students in
respective programs are held at the conclusion of spring semester. You MUST
file a Graduation Application with the Records Office (Student Services). If you
are eligible to receive a degree, diploma, or certificate, you are encouraged to
participate in graduation exercises. See Academic Planner for deadlines.
Requirements
In order to qualify for a degree, diploma, or certificate in a program of study,
the student must:
	 1) Complete all of the courses as outlined in the official Curriculum
		 Standards,
	 2) Earn the minimum required total semester hours,
	 3) Maintain a grade point average of 2.00 or better in the program
		 of study, some programs also require a grade of C or better on
		 required courses, and
	 4) Submit an application for graduation.
A student may receive a certificate, diploma, or degree from Isothermal
Community College in accordance with the requirements stated in the
catalog in effect at the time he/she enters ICC. Students who interrupt their
enrollment in the college for three consecutive semesters must update their
admissions file and meet graduation requirements of the catalog in effect
when they return. Students who interrupt their enrollment in the college
for five years must reapply to the college and meet graduation requirements
of the catalog in effect when they return.
Students are responsible for monitoring progress in their program of
study and ensuring that they are taking classes within their major for the
correct catalog year. Financial aid amounts dispersed to students are subject
to reduction for any classes not required for their major. Students are
encouraged to seek assistance from college personnel and Program Evaluation
resources on Patriot Port to clarify program requirements.
In the case of students transferring into Isothermal Community College, at
least 25% of the credits required for graduation must be earned at Isothermal
Community College.
Course Substitutions
Course substitutions may be approved to fulfill graduation requirements
provided the substitution is appropriate to the student’s program and a
comparable course is offered. In all cases course substitutions must be
consistent with the program requirements as outlined in the Curriculum
Standards published by the North Carolina Community College System.
Each student is limited to nine (9) credit hours of substitutions; however,
in cases where courses have been discontinued additional substitutions may
be approved. All course substitutions must be approved by the appropriate
instructional dean and the Executive Vice President and recorded in the
Records Office.
Academic Policies & Procedures
35
Graduation Procedure
Students are expected to file graduation applications with the Student
Records Office one semester preceding the completion of degree
requirements. Commencement is held at the conclusion of the spring
semester. A diploma fee is charged to each graduating student who wishes
to purchase a diploma. The specific date of the commencement exercise
is listed in the College Calendar in front of this catalog. All students who
have completed degree requirements since the previous commencement are
invited to participate in graduation exercises. See Academic Calendar for
deadlines.
Graduation Orders
Graduation applicants will be notified by mail or email concerning orders
for caps, gowns, diplomas, rings, and invitations. Orders are placed in the
bookstore.
Graduation With Honors
Students who complete a degree, diploma or certificate program with a
program of study grade point average of 4.0 will graduate with High Honors.
The student who earns a program of study grade point average of 3.50 to
3.99 will graduate with Honors.
Honors & Awards
Honors and awards are recognized in the following ways:
Awards Day
An annual assembly is held near the end of spring semester to recognize
students whose scholarship, leadership, citizenship, and service have been
noteworthy.
Dean’s List
Dean’s List is designed to recognize all students whose academic performance
is outstanding. In order to qualify, a student must carry at least twelve (12)
semester hours of credit during the term and maintain a 3.25 grade point
average for the semester. Academic Development courses number less than
100 and do not count toward hours earned for the Dean’s List.
High Honors
You will graduate with High Honors if you have completed your degree,
diploma, or certificate program with a grade point average of 4.0 in your
program of study.
Honors
You will graduate with Honors if you have completed your degree, diploma
or certificate program with a grade point average of 3.50 to 3.99 in your
program of study.
Academic Policies & Procedures
36
Outstanding Students
Each semester, students who display excellence in an aspect of college life are
recognized as Learning College Students of the Semester. Additional awards
or recognition may be provided for students with special achievement in
regional, state, or national competition. Nomination forms are submitted
in the eighth week of each semester to the Executive Vice President, and
awards are presented in the tenth week of the semester.
Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges
Students are selected for the Who’s Who Award by vote of the faculty
based on academic achievement, service to the community, leadership in
extracurricular activities, and potential for continued success. The Who’s
Who organization assigns a quota of nominees based on Isothermal’s
enrollment in order to recognize outstanding campus leaders for the year.
Robert Wendell Eaves Distinguished Teaching Award
Each year, students, faculty, administration, staff, and people from the
community have an opportunity to nominate an outstanding instructor for
the Robert Wendell Eaves Distinguished Teaching Award. Recognition and a
monetary award are given to the instructor selected each year. The winner is
announced during the graduation ceremonies at the end of spring semester.
To be eligible, the instructor must be a full-time employee of Isothermal
Community College and must spend at least 25% of his/her employment
in teaching. Nomination forms will be made available early spring semester.
This award is your opportunity to express appreciation to that one instructor
who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help you. Perhaps that
instructor has helped you learn the subject matter, excel as a college student,
obtain that first job, discover what career you want to pursue in life, or made
a significant difference in your education in some way.
Academic Policies & Procedures
37
PROGRAM UPDATE
To change one's major or update one's program, please see an assigned advisor
or visit the Office of Learning Support and Retention. Program changes should
be initiated by the student in consultation with an advisor and Financial Aid
Counselor (when applicable). Program changes must be submitted to the
Office of Learning Support and Retention. Changing a major will update the
catalog of record to the current catalog year.
Students are responsible for monitoring progress in their program of study and
ensuring that they are taking classes within their major for the correct catalog
year. Financial aid amounts dispersed to students are subject to reduction for any
classes not required for their major. Students are encouraged to seek assistance
from college personnel and Program Evaluation resources on Patriot Port to
clarify program requirements.
Records & REGISTRATION
Academic Load
Arts and Sciences
Applied Sciences and Technology
Business Sciences
Approval from the appropriate dean is required to register for more than
the maximum hours.
Drop/Withdrawal
All official withdrawals must:
1. Be made through the instructor by the deadline published in the Academic
Calendar. Courses that have non-standard beginning and ending dates
may have different withdrawal deadlines. Students in these courses should
consult their course syllabus or their instructor for deadline information.
2. Be made in person if possible.
3. Be recorded by the Student Records Office to be official.
4. Receive a grade of “W.” Students who leave class without officially
withdrawing may receive a grade of “F.” Students whose cumulative ab-sences
exceed 20% of scheduled class hours for the semester may also be
subject to administrative withdrawal. Students who are administratively
withdrawn receive grades of W#.
Instructors are required to keep attendance records throughout the semester.
Last dates of attendance are required for grades of W (Withdrawn), W#
(Administratively Withdrawn), R (DMA repeat), and F (Failed) grades. The
official withdrawal date will be the Last Date of Attendance. Students are
urged to consult with financial aid and veteran’s affairs staff regarding the
impact of class withdrawal and last date of attendance on financial aid and
veterans benefits eligibility.
Academic Policies & Procedures
21 credit hours
(maximum hours) }
38
Withdrawals after the deadline published in the Academic Calendar must be
approved by the Executive Vice President.
Mandatory Course Enrollment Assignment & Census Rosters
Census rosters are printed and distributed after students have been dereg-istered
for non-payment. Instructors must verify enrollment, attendance
dates, beginning and ending dates, and hours and times the class meets.
A student who has not attended or completed the Mandatory Course En-rollment
Assignment is listed as a No Show and must be indicated as such
on the roster. Audits and credit by exam grades are also included on these
reports. Faculty teaching online, hybrid, and web-assisted courses must
submit the graded Mandatory Course Enrollment Activity results with the
census roster. Completed reports are signed, dated, and submitted to the
appropriate Dean/Director for review. The rosters are then returned to the
Records Office for processing.
The enrollment data from these reports are used to report student hours of
membership (North Carolina Administrative Code 2D.0323) which are
used to calculate FTE (full time equivalents) for the College and affects
subsequent funding. Accuracy of information is critical. These reports are
subject to audit.
Registration/Advising Forms
Refer to Appendixes G and H for samples
Appendix G - Registration/Advising Form Student Worksheet
Appendix H - Student Registration Schedule
Registration Clearance
Students are responsible for obtaining registrations clearance unpaid
fines or loans prior to registration. Students with other registrations
flags must also have clearance.
Student Classification
Freshmen have earned less than 30 credit hours.
Sophomores have earned 30 credit hours or more.
Full-Time students are enrolled for 12 or more credit hours.
Part-Time students are enrolled for less than 12 credit hours.
Student Privacy
Isothermal Community College, in the execution of its responsibilities to
students, must maintain accurate and confidential student records. The
Records Office maintains these records in accordance with existing state
laws, college policy and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of
1974 as amended. See Appendix B: Student Records Policy.
Academic Policies & Procedures
Children on Campus
Communicable Disease
Complaint Policy and Procedures
Computer Resources/Internet
Conduct
Drug and Alcohol
Insurance
Parking
Signs and Announcements
Student Unlawful Harassment/Discrimination Policy
Telephone Calls
Theft and Loss
Tobacco Products
Vaccination
Visitor Guidelines
Weather Emergencies
COLEGE POLICIES
& Procedures
40
For more information on college policies see the Learning College Manual,
which may be found in the Rutherford Campus Library. For Student Rights,
Responsibilities, and Judicial Procedures, see Appendix A.
Children on Campus
Students should not bring children to class without prior approval and permission
of the classroom instructor. Children under the age of sixteen(16) should not be
left unsupervised by the parent or guardian while they are on campus. For students
enrolled in REaCH, the REaCH staff will qualify as the designated supervisor.
(Administrative approved policy: 802-02-03AP)
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE
Isothermal Community College shall not exclude individuals with communicable
diseases unless a determination is made that the individual presents a health risk to
himself/herself or others. It is the policy of the College to consider the educational
or employment status of those with a communicable disease on an individual basis.
Communicable diseases as defined in this policy include, but are not limited
to, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), chicken pox, hepatitis, measles,
tuberculosis, meningitis, mononucleosis and whooping cough, and for purposes
of this policy only, those communicable diseases which constitute a disability
pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
A. Procedure
1. All information and records that identify a person as having a
communicable disease shall be strictly confidential.
2. Disclosure of medical information shall be made by the President only to
those on a need-to-know basis to protect the welfare of persons infected
with a communicable disease or the welfare of other members of the
College community.
3. Unauthorized disclosure of medical information by an employee of the
College is prohibited. Violation of this prohibition may result in the
suspension from or termination of employment.
4. A person who knows or has a reasonable basis for believing that he/
she is infected with a communicable disease is expected to seek expert
advice about his/her health circumstances and is obligated ethically and
legally to conduct himself/herself responsibly toward other members of
the College community.
5. Faculty and staff of the College and employees of contractors or
contracted services who are infected with a communicable disease are
urged to notify the appropriate Dean/Director so that the College can
respond appropriately to his/her health needs. Students are urged to share
information with the appropriate Dean/Director for the same reason.
College Policies & Procedures
41
6. A person infected with a communicable disease (including the HIV virus
whether active HIV, HIV-Related Complex, or zero positive to virus) will
not be excluded from enrollment or employment or restricted in his/her
access to the College’s services or facilities unless, in individual cases, the
College administration determines that exclusion or other restrictions
are necessary for the health and welfare of others at the College.
7. Included in making decisions in individual cases which restrict access
to employment shall be the College President, Legal Counsel for the
College, the Deans/Directors, the individual’s personal physician, the
local Health Director (or designee) and if necessary, another physician
with expertise in managing communicable disease cases.
8. The College shall provide information regarding communicable diseases,
especially HIV.
(Board approved policy: 601-02-06 BP)
COMPLAINT POLICY and procedures
Students have the right to file informal and formal complaints regarding college
employees or actions and to know the college’s policy and procedure for responding
to these complaints. Refer to Appendix K of this handbook for the Complaint
Policy and Procedure (Board approved policy: 601-02-02BP). Out of state students
taking online classes may also refer to the Distance Learning Complaint Process
web page for additional information (http://www.isothermal.edu/academics/
distance-learning/complaint-process/index.html).
Computer Resources/Internet
(Board approved policy: 602-03-01AP)
Purpose
Isothermal Community College strives to provide computer resources, Inter-net,
and Network access in an environment in which access is shared equitably
among users. This access is intended to be used in support of the research,
educational, and administrative purposes of the College. College owned or
operated computer resources are for the use of College employees, students,
and other authorized individuals. The purpose of this policy is to protect the
College’s technology users and computer resources and to ensure equitable ac-cess
and proper management of these resources.
Acceptable and Unacceptable Uses
The computer resources owned and operated by Isothermal Community
College are intended for the use of its students, employees, and other authorized
individuals for purposes related to instruction, learning, research, and campus
operations. Users are expected to exercise responsible, ethical behavior when using
all College computer resources. This policy makes no attempt to articulate all
required or prohibited behavior by users of the computer resources of Isothermal
Community College.
College Policies & Procedures
42
Unacceptable activity includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. Deliberately downloading, uploading, creating, or transmitting computer
viruses
2. Destroying or modifying directory structures or registries; or interfering or
tampering with another’s data or files
3. Developing programs that infiltrate a computer or computing system, harass
other users, and/or damage software
4. Attempting to obtain unauthorized computer access or privileges, or at-tempting
to trespass in the work of another individual
5. Using hardware or software sniffers to examine network traffic, except by
appropriate College personnel to diagnose the network for bottlenecks or
other problems
6. Using another person’s password or sharing of one’s own password; users who
choose to share their passwords are responsible for the outcomes resulting
from the use of their password
7. Committing any form of vandalism on equipment, communications lines,
manuals, or software; attempting to defeat or circumvent any security
measures or controls
8. Consuming food and/or beverages in computer labs, computer classrooms,
library or in any other areas restricted to protect systems
9. Wastefully using finite resources, such as large amounts of bandwidth in-cluding
but not limited to: downloading music, television shows, software
programs, and/or movies.
10. Connecting personal network devices on the Colleges wired network.
Connecting unsanctioned products (software or hardware) to the College
network, or installing products for personal use. Special provisions may
be made for visiting artists, lecturers, and trainers at the discretion of the
Director of Information Technology. Information Technology support staff
can offer assistance in gaining network access under these special circum-stances,
but the College cannot guarantee functionality, and assumes no
responsibility for configuration of or damage to Non‑College equipment.
11. Sending hate mail, chain letters, and anonymous or pseudonymous messages
12. Using, distributing, or making accessible profane, obscene, pornographic,
or discriminatory images or remarks, or other content which reasonably
may be considered to be offensive to another user; or participating in other
antisocial behaviors
13. Using computer resources for political campaigns or distribution of political
material
14. Using computer resources for fraud, financial gain, or for any commercial
or illegal activity
15. Disclosing student information in violation of the provisions of the federal
statute known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
16. Violating copyright laws and/or fair use provisions through 1) illegal peer-to-
peer file trafficking, i.e., by downloading or uploading pirated or illegal
material, including but not limited to software and music files; 2) reproduc-ing
or disseminating Internet materials, except as permitted by law or by
written agreement with the owner of the copyright.
College Policies & Procedures
43
Reservation of Rights and Limits of Liability
1. Isothermal Community College reserves all rights in the use and opera-tion
of its computer resources, including the right to monitor and inspect
computerized files or to terminate service at any time and for any reason
without notice.
2. The College makes no guarantees or representations, either explicit or
implied, that user files and/or accounts are private and secure. No right of
privacy exists in regard to E-mail or Internet sessions.
3. The College is not responsible for the accuracy, content, or quality of in-formation
obtained through or stored on the College network.
4. The College and its representatives are not liable for any damages and/or
losses associated with the use of any of its computer resources or services.
5. The College reserves the right to limit the allocation of computer resources.
6. The College makes efforts to maintain computer resources in good working
condition but is not liable for damages incurred by loss of service.
7. College funds may not be used to purchase personal network access or
products.
8. The College shall not be liable, legally, financially, or otherwise, for the ac-tions
of anyone connecting to the Internet through College systems.
Wireless Internet Access
The College provides free wireless Internet access through a guest account (the
only wireless access allowed for students and guests). Users of wireless access
must abide by the Wireless Internet Access Guidelines as well as this policy.
Connection to the wireless network at any given time is not guaranteed. The
College does not accept liability for any personal equipment that is brought to
the College and therefore will not assist with configuration, installation, trouble
shooting, or support of any personal equipment.
Electronic Mail
The College provides free e-mail accounts to all students who are enrolled in a
curriculum program. The use of College-provided e-mail accounts must be re-lated
to College business, including academic pursuits. Incidental and occasional
personal use of these accounts is acceptable when such use does not generate a
direct cost to the College.
The College will make reasonable efforts to maintain the integrity and effective
operation of its electronic mail systems, but users are advised that those systems
should in no way be regarded as a secure medium for the communication of
sensitive or confidential information. Because of the nature and technology
of electronic communication, the College can assure neither the privacy of an
individual’s use of the College’s electronic mail resources nor the confidential-ity
of particular messages that may be created, transmitted, received, or stored.
College Policies & Procedures
44
The College does not monitor electronic mail routinely but may do so to the
extent permitted by law as the College deems necessary. Students should not
have any expectation of privacy with his/her electronic e-mail address provided
by the College. Any user of the College’s computer resources who makes use
of an encryption device shall provide access when requested to do so by the ap-propriate
College authority. The College reserves the right to access and disclose
the contents of employees’, students’, and other users’ electronic mail without
the consent of the user. The College will do so when it believes it has a legitimate
business need including, but not limited to, those listed below.
1. In the course of an investigation triggered by indications of misconduct
or misuse;
2. As needed to protect health and safety of students, employees or the
community at large;
3. As needed to prevent interference with the academic mission of the
College;
4. As needed to locate substantive information required for College busi-ness
that is not more readily available;
5. As needed to respond to legal actions; and
6. As needed to fulfill the College’s obligation to third parties.
Electronic mail, including that of students, may constitute "education records" as
defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C.
§ 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). See Student Handbook, Appendix B or College
policy 601-02-07AP.
North Carolina law provides that communications of College personnel that are
sent by electronic mail may constitute “correspondence” and, therefore, may be
considered public records subject to public inspection under the North Carolina
General Statutes, chapters 121 and 132.
Electronic files, including electronic mail, that are considered to be public re-cords
are to be retained, archived and/or disposed of in accordance with current
guidelines established by the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources
or otherwise required by College policy.
College Policies & Procedures
45
Violations
Each individual is ultimately responsible for his/her own actions. Failure to
exercise responsible, ethical behavior will result in disciplinary action as appro-priate.
Disciplinary action may include reprimand or denial of access. In severe
cases, 1) students may be sanctioned according to procedures described in the
Student Handbook; 2) other users may be barred permanently from using Col-lege
computers and network access.
Certain activities violate Federal and/or NC State laws governing use of computer
systems, and may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies. Those convicted
could face fines and/or imprisonment.
Availability of Policies
College computer policies are accessible on the College website at http://www.
isothermal.edu/, are included in various College publications, and are available
from any College staff member.
Agreement
All users of Isothermal Community College computer resources must comply
with appropriate computer policies. In using any of the College’s computer re-sources,
users agree to comply with the policies here-in and with other policies
that may apply.
Conduct
The student assumes full responsibility for the consequences of his/her actions
and behavior. It is the personal responsibility of each student to uphold the
rules and regulations of Isothermal Community College. The College reserves
the right to dismiss any student who, in its judgment, conducts him or herself
in a manner that is not in compliance with the purposes of this institution. The
complete policy for Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Judicial Procedures is
available in the Student Services Office and detailed in the Student Handbook
(Appendix A) which is available in print and on the website.
It is the duty of the President to exercise full authority in the regulation of student
services and discipline in the institution. Delegation of this authority is normally
made to the Dean of Students. Nevertheless, it is the duty of the President to
insure to every student the right of due process. A complete policy of Student
Rights, Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures is available for review in the
Student Services Office and detailed in the Student Handbook which is available
in print and on the website.
College Policies & Procedures
46
Drug AND Alcohol
Isothermal Community College campuses have been designated as “Drug Free”
and only under approved circumstances is the consumption of alcohol permitted.
The possession and/or use of any non-prescribed controlled substance as defined
in Chapter 90 of the General Statutes of North Carolina and federal laws are not
permitted on the campuses of Isothermal Community College. The consumption
of alcohol or the possession of an open container which contains alcoholic
beverages is prohibited on the campuses of Isothermal Community College.
Exceptions shall be made for the use of alcohol in instructional situations, e.g.
cooking classes, laboratory experiments, or in conjunction with events at The
Foundation Performing Arts and Conference Center meeting the requirements
of the NC State ABC Codes and of nonexclusive catering services agreements.
Appropriate disciplinary sanctions will be determined by the College on a case by
case basis and may include expulsion and referral for prosecution. See Appendix I.
INSURANCE
Students are encouraged to provide themselves with insurance to cover illness/
injury. Information regarding student accident insurance is available in Student
Services. If an accidental injury involves an enrolled student on campus or as
part of a related college activity, it may be at least partially covered by student
accident insurance.
Parking
There is sufficient parking to accommodate all vehicles driven by students. At
times, you may not be able to use the parking area most convenient and will
have to park in an area more removed from your destination. You are required
to park in the parking areas assigned to students. Parking along the roadways
and in the staff and faculty parking spaces is prohibited. Check the campus map
for student parking areas.
Motor Vehicle Towing Guidelines
If a motor vehicle is parked in such a manner that it blocks a drive, blocks
another person who is legally parked, or presents a public hazard, then the
motor vehicle may be towed at owners expense at the discretion of the College.
College Policies & Procedures
47
Signs & Announcements
Students and community members may post signs and announcements on
general bulletin boards provided that the item is no larger than 8 1/2 x 11,
that it is clearly dated and is removed within two weeks of posting, and that it
is not placed over other announcements. Attaching any poster or sign to walls
and doors is prohibited. Affiliated groups or individuals will be allowed to post
signs in provided enclosed bulletin boards located inside buildings, but permis-sion
must be obtained in advance from the appropriate building representative.
Signs and announcements must not contain, encourage, or promote violations
of public laws or regulations of the college. The college reminds all individuals or
organizations posting materials to be aware of current laws concerning defama-tion,
obscenity, fair labor practices, and other applicable law. At the same time,
the college does not assume responsibility for the content of material posted or
distributed. (Administrative approved policy: 801-01-02AP)
STudent unlawful harassment/
discrimination policy
Isothermal Community College is committed to providing and promoting an
atmosphere in which students can fully engage in the learning process. Accordingly,
forms of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and other violations of civil rights
are prohibited. See Appendix L for policy details. For concerns regarding sexual
harassment, please consult the Title IX information located in the Emergency
Information section of the student handbook.
Telephone Calls
The College cannot accept incoming calls for students except in extreme
emergencies. Let your family know that if a genuine crisis comes up, Student
Services is the place to call to get in touch with you. The only person who can
authorize interrupting a class to give you a message is the Dean of Students or
an appropriate designee. Cell phones should be turned off in classrooms and in
the library.
Theft or Loss
Notify Campus Enforcement at (828) 289-5850 and Student Services as soon as
possible. Found items should be turned in to Student Services or the Switchboard
in the Administration Building for safekeeping until claimed.
Tobac c o Products
The use of tobacco products of any kind inside the buildings of Isothermal Com-munity
College is prohibited. Smoking is prohibited within twenty-five(25) feet of
all building entrances on the campuses of Isothermal Community College. (Board
approved policy: 802-02-10BP)
College Policies & Procedures
48
Vaccinations
Students at Isothermal Community College are not required to provide proof of
immunization for general admission to the College. However, students admitted to
the Associate Degree Nursing (A45110), Practical Nursing (D45660), and Surgical
Technology (D45740) programs must complete the Health Program Medical form
which requires proof of immunization from childhood diseases, tuberculosis, and
hepatitis B, as well as a current flu shot and TD booster.
If you want more information about the health program immunization requirements
for Associate Degree Nursing (A45110), Practical Nursing (D45660), Surgical
Technology (D45740), contact Tina Porter at 828-395-1621 or tporter@isothermal.
edu.
Visitor Guidelines
Isothermal Community College welcomes visitors. However, the College reserves
the right to remove visitors who become disruptive to the learning environment.
Disruptive visitors (including visitors who may be loitering) may be referred to
college authorities or Campus Enforcement for warning, removal, trespass, or arrest.
Wea t her Emergencies
Isothermal Community College relies on ICC Alert, a text and email message
system, for alerting students and employees of campus emergencies and/or closures.
Visit www.isothermal.edu/notify to register for ICC Alert.
The College website www.isothermal.edu will usually post closings in case
of weather emergencies. Set your radio to our own WNCW 88.7 station for
cancellations due to inclement weather. Normally, local radio and TV stations
will be notified between 5:45–6:30 a.m. the day of delay or closing. If possible,
announcements will be made prior to 11:00 p.m. the night before the school
hours are to be altered. Decisions are made based on actual conditions on campus
and throughout the service area and are not generally made based on forecasted
events. Since driving conditions vary from area to area, everyone is encouraged
to always use caution. If you feel it is unsafe to travel, don’t!
College Policies & Procedures
49
Inclement Weather Policy
In the event curriculum classes are canceled due to inclement weather or
emergencies, time missed shall be made up by alternative assignments
and documented with the appropriate dean’s approval. If days canceled
exceed five in a semester, break time may be rescheduled for class meetings.
(Administrative approved policy: 402-02-05AP)
TV Stations
WBTV (Channel 3), Charlotte
WLOS (Channel 13), Asheville
WSPA (Channel 7), Spartanburg
WHNS (Channel 21), Greenville
WYFF (Channel 4), Greenville
Radio Stations
WAGY 1320 AM, Forest City
WCAB 590 AM, Rutherfordton
WNCW 88.7 FM, Spindale
WOHS 730 AM, Shelby
WADA 1390AM, Shelby
College Policies & Procedures
Admissions & Change of Major
Advising Center
Bookstore
Campus Enforcement &
Campus Assistance
Career Services/Counseling
Computer Labs
Cosmetology
Disability Support Services
Distance Learning
Financial Aid
Food Services
The Foundation
High School Students
IT Help Desk
Library
Math Tutoring Lab
Patriot Port
facilities
& services
Polk Center
Records Office
Rutherfordton Learning Center
Small Business Center
Student Activities
Student Center
Supplemental Instruction
Telephones
Testing Services
Transcript of Record
Tuition Payment
Tuition Rates
Veterans Affairs
Website
Wireless Internet Access Guidelines
Writing Center
Workforce Investment Act (WIA)
51
Services and activities at Isothermal Community College support the learn-ing
college environment through the provision of programs and services that
are timely, user-friendly, accessible, and designed to support student learning.
These services recognize the significant diversity of the student body and seek to
provide programs and services that support learning among all levels and types
of students including (but not limited to) distance education, day and evening,
minority, disabled, foreign, high school students, as well as displaced workers,
single parents, students with financial need, etc. Also, the services provided reflect
an interest in the changing needs of students who are increasingly diverse and
more likely to take Internet classes.
Admissions & Change of Major
The Admissions Office is located in the Student Center. Admissions standards
vary by program, and students requesting a Program Update should consult
with Learning Support and Retention, an advisor, and a Financial Aid coun-selor
(when appropriate). Program changes must be recorded in the Admissions
Office. Also, the Admissions Office assists students and others with functions
such as outreach and recruitment, international student enrollment, and in-state
residency for tuition purposes.
Advising Center
The Advising Center is located in the Student Center Building near the west
entrance of the facility. Feel free to contact the Advising Center via phone (828)
395-1436 or email at advising@isothermal.edu.
The Advising Center offers guidance and information related to:
• New student advising and registration
• Career and academic advising
• Mentoring/coaching
• Dropping a class or complete withdrawal
• Advising and information for pre-health sciences students
• Testing services
• Connecting with your faculty advisor
• Stop Out students
The advising center is located in Learning Support and Retention along with:
• Counseling
• Career Counseling
• Disability Services
• Placement Testing and High School Equivalency Testing
• WIOA - Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act
Facilities & Services
52
Bookstore
The campus bookstore is located in the Student Center. In addition to books and
classroom supplies, the bookstore carries a large supply of notebooks, binders and
apparel with the Isothermal logo, book bags, backpacks, and other specialty items.
The Bookstore also has flash drives, earbuds, and introduced some book rentals, as
well as, some e-book options. Bookstore profits are used for college projects and
services. The Bookstore has increased the used book selection. Please call (828)
395-1633 or (828) 395-1580.
Graduation orders are
placeD in the bookstore
Bookstore Hours
Summer Semester
Monday - Thursday,
9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
1st week of semester
Monday - Thursday
8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Fall & Spring Semesters
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday,
9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Friday, 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
1st week of semester
Monday - Thursday
8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Friday
8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
CAMPUS enforcement & Campus Assistance
For information regarding Campus Enforcement & Campus Assistance, refer to
the "Emergency Information, Crime Awareness & Safety Tips" section.
CAREER SERVICES/Counseling
Career services are provided as a function of Learning Support and Retention
in the Student Center. These services include providing career and personality
assessments for students, one-on-one discussions to link career results to related
programs, and an investigation of resources that give an overview of the future
of different types of careers. These services also include some job search support
such as how to write a resume, interview skills, etc.
A Career Lab is available in the Business Sciences Department, Room 117/120. The
Career Lab is there to assist students with their job search, resume development,
interview skills, and completing job applications.
Personal counseling services include timely support and relevant referrals for stu-dents
dealing with personal issues and crises. Referrals are also made for students
with drug and alcohol issues. Academic counseling services advise students on
program choice, course selection, educational goals, course workload issues, and
transfer information.
Facilities & Services
53
Computer Labs
Accounting and Business Career Lab
The Accounting and Career Lab is available to provide assistance to students
enrolled in many of the accounting, business, and computer courses offered
at Isothermal Community College. It is also available to assist Isothermal
students with resume building, cover letter design, interviewing skills, job
search, and completing job applications. This resource is provided by the
Business Sciences Department. This resource is provided by the Business
Sciences Department. The phone number is (828) 395-1652. The Accounting
and Career Lab is located in Room 117/120 of the Business Sciences building
on the Rutherford Campus.
Business Sciences
The Learning Lab, located in room 119 of the Business Sciences building,
is open to all curriculum students. The computers have Microsoft Office
installed as well as some specialized software for certain course. Access to
the Internet is also available. Hours do vary by semester. Please check the
available hours posted on the door or call (828) 395-8021.
Computer labs are available in the following locations:
Building 	Room Computers Designated Use(s)
Library 	 Front 20 	 Public access computers
Business Sciences - 	 119 	 25 	 Open lab for Business
Rutherford Campus 					 Science students
Polk Center 	 108E 3 	 Open lab
Rutherfordton - 	 310 	 25 	 Open lab for nursing
Learning Center 					 students
Facilities & Services
OPERATING SCHEDULE
Monday - Thursday 9:00 - 11:30 am & 4:30 - 8:30 pm
Friday 8:15 - 10:30 am No chemicals
Cosmetology
The Cosmetology Department in the Student Center offers a variety of services
from hair cutting, styling, and chemicals to manicures, pedicures and facials at
very reasonable prices. Faculty, staff and full time ICC Students may receive a
discount with a valid student ID card. All work is done exclusively by students.
The Cosmetology Department and Lab operates on the same semester schedule as
ICC. For your convenience, we offer appointments and walk-ins. Appointments
can be made with the student you wish to complete your service or by calling
the desk: (828) 286-2319 or (828) 395-1439.
54
Disabilit y Suport Services
Isothermal Community College is committed to providing equal access to
education for persons with disabilities. However, it is the responsibility of the
student to make his or her disability known and to request accommodations.
Requests should be made in a timely manner, preferably thirty (30) days prior to
registration, and submitted to the Disability Services Counselor. Every reasonable
effort will be made to provide services.
In order to establish the student’s eligibility for services, documentation of a
disability is required of all students who request accommodations. Documentation
must be provided from an appropriately licensed/certified professional and must
be complete enough to establish the student’s status as a person with a disability
as well as establishing the need for any requested accommodations. The age of
acceptable documentation is dependent upon the disabling condition, the current
status of the student, and the student’s specific request for accommodations.
Necessary documentation to request accommodations/services, in general, should
include the following:
1) Identification of the nature and extent of the disability including diagnosis
2) Specific information on the functional limitation as related to the
academic environment
3) Description of the current course of treatment including medical side effects
4) Prognosis for the disability
5) Recommended reasonable accommodations
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) may help to identify services that have
been effective for the student, but will not be considered acceptable documentation
of a disability. All documentation and records provided will be maintained in a
confidential manner as outlined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
of 1974. For information about disability services, contact the Disability Services
Counselor, located in the Advising Center, the Office of Learning Support and
Retention at (828) 395-1732.
Facilities & Services
55
Distance Learning
Taking some or all of your classes in a distance learning format (online, web-assisted,
or hybrid) may allow you to overcome some of the obstacles that prevent
you from taking a seated/traditional class. For example, you may need to work
a full-time job or stay at home with children while pursuing your degree at
Isothermal Community College. Workloads for distance learning courses are
comparable to traditional courses, but the delivery method utilizes a variety of
technologies in an online environment.
Students enrolling in a program to take distance learning courses must complete
the admissions requirements for the program first. Once the admissions steps are
complete, you may then complete the registration process for the distance learning
course. In order to facilitate the registration process, make sure you meet all of
the requirements to be an online student at Isothermal Community College.
Please review the list of technical requirements, found online at the Distance
Learning web page (http://www.isothermal.edu/academics/distance-learning/
index.html). These are considered the basic skills required to be successful in
a distance learning course. In some courses, specific technology is required to
complete the course work. Contact the course instructor to identify technology
needs in the course, such as specific products and versions.
After registering for the distance learning course, your instructor will make the
course material available to you within Moodle on the first day of the semester.
If course materials are not available on the first day of the semester, you should
contact your instructor immediately (by email or some other method). If you
do not hear from your instructor within 24 hours, contact the Help Desk at
(828) 395-1437.
Students enrolled in Distance Learning courses must complete the mandatory
course enrollment assignment on the first day of the term. Failure to complete
the mandatory course enrollment assignment could result in receiving a grade
of No Show (NS) for the course with no refund issued for the course.
Types of Distance Learning:
Online courses, also referred to as Internet courses, give you access to content
24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week and students are not required to have a physical
presence on campus to complete the course. Some online courses may require
testing by proctor. Online courses are convenient, but they are not suitable
for all students or situations. If you are considering taking an online class for
academic credit, the Distance Education Questionnaire (located in Appendix
E in the Student Handbook and on the Distance Learning web page) will help
you evaluate your suitability for online classes. Please consult your advisor or
the instructor of the online course with this decision.
Facilities & Services
56
Web-assisted courses, also referred to as web-supported courses, are courses in
which the content is primarily delivered by the instructor in a face-to-face setting
and has an additional requirement that the students have Internet access for the
online portion of the class. In a web-assisted course, you are required to meet
at specific days and times with the course instructor in addition to completing
assignments online.
Hybrid courses are courses in which the content is primarily delivered in an
online environment and has an additional requirement for the student to meet
with the instructor in a face-to-face setting. In a hybrid course, you are required
to meet at specific days and times with the course instructor in addition to
completing assignments online.
In addition to distance learning courses, many traditional courses at Isothermal
Community College require computer skills, Internet access, and email
communication to fulfill course requirements. Isothermal Community College
has computers with Internet access located in the Library and the Business
Sciences building that are for students use. Curriculum students are issued
student email addresses, Patriot Port accounts, and Moodle accounts. If you
have difficulty accessing any of these accounts, please contact the Help Desk at
828-395-1437 or visit the Help Desk web page (http://www.isothermal.edu/
services/helpdesk/index.html).
Facilities & Services
57
Sections 001-099 Day start at or before 7am until 5pm
Sections 100-149 Evening start at or after 5pm unless the class starts before 5pm but 50% or more of the assigned time is after 5pm
Sections 300-399 Classes offered at the Polk Center
Sections 400-424 Learning Community – Applied Sciences & Technology
Sections 425-449 Learning Community – Arts & Science
Sections 450-474 Learning Community – Business
Sections 475-499 Learning Community – Developmental Education
Sections 500-549 Developmental Education Instruction (Day)
Sections 550-599 Developmental Education Instruction (Evening)
Sections 700-799 Internet – 100% of instruction is delivered through the Internet.
Sections 900-909 For High School Students Only – Chase
Sections 910-919 For High School Students Only – East
Sections 920-929 For High School Students Only – RS Central
Sections 930-939 For High School Students Only – Charter Schools
Sections 940-949 For High School Students Only – Polk
Sections 950-959 For High School Students Only – REaCH
Sections 960-969 For High School Students Only – Polk Virtual
Sections 970-979 For High School Students Only – Internet (Learn and Earn Online)
Sections 980-989 For High School Students Only – On Campus
Sections 990-999 For High School Students Only – Other
Traditional 	 TR The instructor and students meet face-to-face, according to designated dates, times, and location.
	
		 [Note: Activities in the course may include online research components or other online resources.]
Traditional - Self Support SR Self-Support – College credit course where instructor and students meet face-to-face, according to
	
		 designated dates, times, and location. [Note: Activities in the course may include online research
	
		 components or other online resources.]
Traditional - Developmental TA First 4 weeks or First 8 weeks
	 TB Second 4 weeks
	 TC Third 4 weeks or Second 8 weeks
	 TD Fourth 4 weeks
Internet or Online 	 IN 100% of instruction is delivered through the Internet. [Note: May include a required face-to-face
	
		 orientation or proctored exams.]
Internet or Online - Self Support SI Self-Support – College credit course where 100% of instruction is delivered through the Internet.
	
		 [Note: May include a required face-to-face orientation or proctored exams.]
Internet or Online - Developmental IA First 4 weeks or First 8 weeks
	 IB Second 4 weeks
	 IC Third 4 weeks or Second 8 weeks
	 ID Fourth 4 weeks
Hybrid 	 HY Primary instructional delivery is on-line with a requirement that students also meet in traditional
	
		 face-to-face sessions as determined appropriate by the college. 51% or more of the instruction is
	
		 delivered through the Internet. [Example: An online course with a requirement that students attend
	
		 one or more face-to-face labs.]
Hybrid - Self Support SH Self-Support – College credit course where the primary instructional delivery is on-line with a
	
		 requirement that students also meet in traditional face-to-face sessions as determined appropriate
	
		 by the college. 51% or more of the instruction is delivered through the Internet. [Example: An online
	
		 course with a requirement that students attend one or more face-to-face labs.]
Hybrid Developmental HA First 4 weeks or First 8 weeks
	 HB Second 4 weeks
	 HC Third 4 weeks or Second 8 weeks
	 HD Fourth 4 weeks
Web-supported or Web-assisted WB Primary instructional delivery is via traditional face-to-face method with a requirement that students
	
		 have Internet access as a supplemental part the course. 50% or less of the instruction is delivered
	
		 through the Internet. [Example: A class that meets on a regular schedule, but students are required
	
		 to access instructional material, submit assignments, and/or interact with the instructor and other
	
		 students via the Internet.]
Web-supported or 	 SW Self-Support – College credit course where the primary instructional delivery is via traditional face-to-face
		 method with a requirement that students have Internet access as a supplemental part the course. 50% or less of
		 the instruction is delivered through the Internet. [Example: A class that meets on a regular schedule, but students
		 are required to access instructional material, submit assignments, and/or interact with the instructor and other
		 students via the Internet.]
Web-supported or 	 WA First 4 weeks or First 8 weeks
Web-assisted - Developmental WB Second 4 weeks
	 WC Third 4 weeks or Second 8 weeks
	 WD Fourth 4 weeks
Information Highway/
Two-way Video 	 IH College credit course where 100% of the instruction is delivered by two - or more way video.
Cooperative Education CP Instruction consisting of the integration of traditional classroom learning with supervised work experience and
		 where there is no Internet requirement.
Teleweb 	 TW College credit course where the primary delivery of instruction is via telecourse and also requires
		 Internet access as a supplemental part of the course.
Section Number Assignments
Facilities & Services
58
Financial Aid
For information regarding financial aid, refer to the "Financial Aid" section and
the college website.
Food Services
Food and beverage vending machines are located in the Student Center and in
various buildings around campus.
THE FOUNDATION - A Center for Learning and the Arts
The ground floor includes offices and classrooms for Basic Skills/Adult High
School/GED; Customized Training & Development; Continuing Education;
Defensive Driving, Truck Driving; Small Business Center; Visitor Information.
Located on the second and third floors of The Foundation Building, the
Performing Arts and Conference Center plays host to an array of events,
from concerts to wedding receptions. Cultural events include a variety
of performance disciplines including dance, theatre, popular and classical
music, family friendly variety shows, plays produced specifically for young
audiences, as well as lectures and seminars. Programming is presented by
the College and by community and regional based promoters.
A listing of public events can be viewed on the facility web site
www.FoundationShows.org
Some special student ticket pricing is available for select events. The facility
box office (828-286-9990) is located at the second floor entrance just off
the North parking lot. The conference space is used for a variety of events
including proms, weddings, seminars, trade shows, and reunions, as well as
smaller meetings and retreats. For facility rental information call the Director
at (828) 395-1454.
Facilities & Services
59
IT Help Desk
Getting Started
Isothermal Community College utilizes online tools to serve students.
These tools include Outlook E-Mail, Moodle, and Patriot Port. If you have
never logged in to one of these tools, go to the website at www.isothermal.
edu and search for “Help Desk.”
Need Help Using a Tool?
Once you find the IT Help Desk at www.isothermal.edu, select the tool
for specific assistance:
OUTLOOK
EMAIL
Facilities & Services
High School Students
Isothermal Community College serves a variety of high school students in its
service region through Career & College Promise and early colleges in Rutherford
and Polk Counties.
Career & College Promise
The purpose of Career & College Promise is to provide flexible, seamless,
student-centered educational opportunities for North Carolina high school
students, which maximize the use of resources and educational opportunities
not otherwise accessible. For more information, contact (828) 395-1646.
Polk County E