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INTRODUCTION
Mission Statement................................................................................................2
Welcome Message To Students..............................................................................3
Who To See..........................................................................................................4
Accreditation........................................................................................................4
Definitions............................................................................................................5
2011-2012 ACADEMIC PLANNER
Academic Planner............................................................................................7-18
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Academic Load...................................................................................................20
Student Classification.........................................................................................20
Registration/Advising Forms...............................................................................20
Senior Citizens....................................................................................................20
Tuition Refund Policy.........................................................................................20
Tuition Rates......................................................................................................21
Activity Fees/Other Costs...................................................................................21
Financial Aid Programs..................................................................................22-27
Academic Fresh Start..........................................................................................27
Academic Standing.............................................................................................28
Academic Alert...................................................................................................28
Auditing Courses................................................................................................29
Student Records..................................................................................................29
Schedule Changes...............................................................................................29
Withdrawal from College...................................................................................30
Grading System..................................................................................................31
Grade Point Average...........................................................................................31
Grade Reports.....................................................................................................32
Incomplete Policy...............................................................................................32
Graduation Exercises..........................................................................................32
Graduation Orders and Fees...............................................................................32
COLLEGE POLICIES
Academic Misconduct........................................................................................34
Attendance.........................................................................................................34
Children On Campus.........................................................................................35
Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy................................35-39
Drug and Alcohol...............................................................................................39
Emergency Procedures........................................................................................39
Insurance............................................................................................................40
Nondiscrimination Statement.............................................................................40
Parking...............................................................................................................40
Signs and Announcements..................................................................................41
Student Unlawful Harassment............................................................................41
Telephone Calls..................................................................................................41
TABLE OF CONTENTS
This Student Handbook is sponsored by Student Services and produced by the Campus Print Shop of
Isothermal Community College. Special thanks to Benediktas Krikshtanas, Advertising and Graphic
Design student, whose work is featured on the cover. 6/2011/4,000/$3,599.04@ $0.90 per copy
Theft or Loss.......................................................................................................41
Tobacco Products................................................................................................42
Visitor Guidelines...............................................................................................42
Weather Emergencies..........................................................................................42
Wireless Internet Access Guidelines....................................................................43
FACILITIES and SERVICES
Advising Center..................................................................................................45
Bookstore...........................................................................................................45
Computer Labs...................................................................................................46
Cosmetology.......................................................................................................46
Disability Support Services.................................................................................47
Distance Learning...............................................................................................47
Food Services......................................................................................................49
The Foundation..................................................................................................49
Learning Support and Retention.........................................................................50
Library................................................................................................................51
Polk County Center............................................................................................52
Recreation and Relaxation..................................................................................53
Small Business Center.........................................................................................53
Supplemental Instruction Services......................................................................53
Telephones..........................................................................................................54
Website...............................................................................................................54
Pre-Health Sciences Programs.............................................................................30
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Clubs and Organizations...............................................................................56-58
Campus Events...................................................................................................58
Identification Cards............................................................................................59
News Stories, Announcements, and Events.........................................................60
Publications........................................................................................................60
CRIME AWARENESS
A Commitment To Safety...................................................................................62
Reporting Criminal Activity...............................................................................62
Campus Enforcement and Campus Assistance....................................................63
APPENDIXES
Appendix A .......Student Rights, Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures............ 69-76
Appendix B........Student Records Policy............................................................... 77-82
Appendix C........Tuition Refund Policy and Procedures..............................................82
Appendix D.......Crime Awareness Statistical Report............................................ 83-85
Appendix E........Distance Education Questionnaire............................................. 86-88
Appendix F........Copyright Infringement............................................................. 89-90
Appendix G........Registration/Advising Form Student Worksheet...............................91
Appendix H.......Student Registration Schedule..........................................................92
Appendix I.........Drug and Alcohol Policy............................................................ 93-96
Appendix J.........Textbook Purchases - Frequently Asked Questions...........................97
Appendix K........Complaint Policies and Procedures..................................................98
Appendix L........Student Unlawful Harassment/Discrimination Policy...............99-101
Spindale Campus Map.................................................................................Back Cover
introduction
Mission Statement
Welcome Message To Students
• Administrative Offices
• Academic Programs
Who To See
Accreditation
Definitions
Isothermal Community College
PO Box 804
Spindale, NC 28160
(828) 286-3636
www.isothermal.edu
Isothermal Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System, is a comprehensive, two-year, public institution that serves
the individuals in Rutherford and Polk Counties. The College offers individual courses and certificate, diploma and degree programs that enable students to
transfer to four-year institutions or to acquire skills for new or continued employment, as well as to function effectively as citizens in our society. In addition, the
College provides training for area business and industry, personal enrichment courses, remedial and developmental courses and community service activities.
Isothermal Community College provides educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender,
veteran status, or disability. For more information contact: Stephen Matheny, Vice President Administrative Services, Isothermal Community College, PO Box
804, Spindale, NC 28160 or call (828) 286-3636 ext. 202.
Isothermal Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools 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) 679-4501.
2
Our Mission
Isothermal Community College exists to improve life through learning.
Our 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
Our Vision Statement
To be the benchmark for excellence in learning, innovation, service, and economic
development.
Our 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
3
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 2011-
2012, ACADEMIC INFORMATION, COLLEGE POLICIES, FACILITIES
and SERVICES, STUDENT ACTIVITIES, CRIME AWARENESS, and
APPENDIXES, Student Rights, Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures
(Appendix A); Student Records Policy (Appendix B); Tuition Refund Policy
and Procedures (Appendix C); Crime Statistics 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).
Please take a few minutes to look through your Student Handbook, and 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 that challenge.
Academic Programs
Administrative Offices
Director of Academic Development, Debbie Puett
Dean of Applied Sciences and Technology, TBD
Dean of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Kathy Ackerman
Dean of Business Sciences, Kim Alexander
President, Dr. Myra Johnson
Vice President of Academic and Student Services
and Institutional Assessment, Dr. Kimberly Gold
Vice President of Administrative Services, Stephen Matheny
Vice President of Community and Workforce Education
and Institutional Advancement, Thad Harrill
Dean of Continuing Education, Donna Hood
Dean of Learning Support, and Retention, Johnny Smith
Director of Library Services, Charles Wiggins
Director of Polk County Center, Kate Barkschat
Dean of Student Services, Dr. Karen Jones
Director of Information Technology, Robby Walters
Director of Marketing and Community Relations, Mike Gavin
4
GO TO:
Student Services Office
Your Advisor/Advising Center
Continuing Education
Bookstore
Learning, Support, and Retention
Student Services
Learning, Support, and Retention
Your Advisor/Advising Center
Departmental Secretary/
Your Advisor
Learning, Support, and Retention
Campus Enforcement
(828) 289-5850, 9-911 if you are
using campus telephone system
and Switchboard (Dial "0")
Financial Aid Office
Student Services Office
Your Advisor
Bookstore
Admissions Office
Continuing Education
Student Services Secretary or
Receptionist/Switchboard
Student Services Office
Student Activities Coordinator
Records Office
Business Office
Academic Development
Your Advisor
Who To See
IF YOU NEED:
Academic record
Academic advising
Adult Ext/Non-credit course
Books to purchase
Career assistance
Complaints/Student Conduct
Concerns
Counseling
Courses - registering
Courses - schedule adjustments
Curriculum changes
Disability Services
Emergency Assistance
Financial aid
Graduation application
Graduation information
Graduation orders
In-state/out-of-state tuition status
HRD classes
Lost and found
Name/address changes
Organize a student activity
Transcripts
Tuition, fees, payments
Tutoring services
Withdraw from College
The average rate of persistence toward degree completion of students at Isothermal Community College
is available in the office of Assessment, Planning & Research. Information regarding North Carolina
Community College Performance Measures for Isothermal Community College is available through the
college website.
LOCATED IN:
Student Center
The Foundation
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Administration
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
The Foundation
Student Center
Administration
Student Center
Student Center
Student Center
Administration
Administration
Accreditation and
Reaffirmation of Accreditation
Isothermal Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges
of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), located at 1866
Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097; telephone number: (404) 679-4501.
As a requirement for ongoing 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 SACS principles.
5
Definitions
Academic Alert Status: If your grade
point average falls below the minimum
satisfactory level, you will be put on academic
alert. You will be provided with information on
how to improve your GPA.
Academic Development: A series of
courses in math, reading, and English that
are designed to enable students to complete
their chosen curriculum by increasing options
for academic success.
Academic standing: This is determined
by the credits earned and grades received.
Accreditation: Various professional
agencies appoint teams of evaluators who
periodically study programs and services to
ensure they meet standards of quality, and are
relevant to the College's purpose.
Adult Continuing Education: This
program provides non-credit courses for
citizens who are 18 years old or older. The
opportunities are based on individual need and
previous educational achievement.
Advisor: A person who guides the selection
of courses for your chosen field of study and
is usually a faculty member.
Artifact: An example of class work that
demonstrates competency in a specific skill.
An artifact can be a paper, test, project report,
lab report, video tape, web page, etc.
Assessment: A collection of information to
determine if a student is achieving the desired
outcomes of his/her educational experiences.
Associate of Applied Science
(A.A.S.): A two-year technical program that
prepares you for the job market.
Associate of Arts (A.A.): A two-year
Arts & Sciences program that concentrates
on humanities and social sciences for those
planning to continue in a bachelor's degree
curriculum in a senior college.
Associate of Science (A.S.): A
two-year Arts & Sciences program that
concentrates on mathematics and science
for those planning to continue in a bachelor's
degree curriculum in a senior college.
Audit: A course for which you pay tuition
and fees, but do not receive credit. Notify your
instructor when you begin the class.
Catalog: The official college publication
available from the Admissions Office that
contains almost everything you need to
know about Isothermal Community College's
academic programs.
Census Date: The date on which a course
has met ten percent of the required class
time for the semester. Failure to participate
in a course, whether it is traditional or online,
before this date may result in you being
dropped from the course without a refund.
Certificate Program: A curriculum
generally requiring one year or less of
course work.
Contact or lab hours: The actual number
of hours in class or lab per week, per course.
Counselor: A person who provides you
with personal, academic, vocational, or career
counseling.
Credit hours: Every class is worth a value
called a credit hour. Every degree, diploma,
or certificate program requires you to take a
certain number of credit hours.
Curriculum: The program of courses
required to receive a degree, diploma, or
certificate in your chosen area of study.
Criteria: Pre-determined guidelines that
identify requirements for demonstrating
competence in a designated skill.
Diploma programs: With the exception
of the General Education Core Diplomas in the
A.A. and A.S. programs, these are vocational
curricula usually taking three semesters
to complete. Courses are not designed to
transfer to a four-year school. Adult High
School is a program that allows adults to
complete high school courses and credits for
an Adult High School diploma. GED is a series
of tests that correspond to most high school
curricula. People who have not completed
high school may choose to take these tests.
Discipline: A specific field of study,
such as English, biology, math, economics,
electronics, etc.
Distance Learning: Courses which
involve the mastering of academic knowledge
in ways other than face-to-face interactions
between students and instructors. See
definitions in the "Facilities & Services" section
of this handbook.
Drop/Add: This term refers to adjusting
your schedule by dropping and/or adding
courses. The Drop/Add period is limited
and is indicated on the calendar.
Electives: A course which is not specifically
named in your curriculum but is required for
graduation. Check with your academic advisor
before choosing an elective.
Financial aid: Monies available to eligible
students in the form of grants, scholarships,
and work study funding. The monies come
through federal and state government or
private donations.
Full-time student: A student who is
taking at least 12 credit hours. A student who
is registered for 11 credit hours or fewer in one
semester is a part-time student.
Grade point average (GPA): The
average of your grades for all classes taken
at Isothermal. It is calculated by adding all
earned quality points and dividing by the
number of credit hours taken.
Independent study: A credit course,
allowed only in special circumstances, in which
you work individually with a faculty member.
Placement tests: Standardized tests in
math, reading, and English, which are used
to place students in appropriate courses in
these academic disciplines.
Plagiarism: Using ideas or words of another
as your own instead of crediting the source.
Plagiarism is a violation of academic integrity.
Portfolio: A method of presenting data for
academic assessment. A portfolio contains
artifacts arranged and organized by a student
to demonstrate skills designated by the college
that are important to success.
Practicum: A course that offers hands-on
experience in the workplace.
Prerequisites: Preliminary skills,
knowledge or courses which are required
before enrollment in a particular course.
Prerequisites are listed in the course
description section of the catalog.
Rubric: A term used for a rating sheet based
on pre-determined criteria for success at
demonstrating a designated skill.
Special credit student: A student who is
taking one or more curriculum credit courses,
but who is not enrolled in a specific curriculum.
Student activity fee: The fee you pay that
supports club activities, school-wide events,
and your student handbook!
Student Government Association
(S.G.A.): The student organization that
promotes the interests of students through
a variety of events and sponsorships. All
students who pay an activity fee are members
of SGA.
Syllabus: A document provided by
instructors in every course. It contains
information about course requirements,
attendance, textbooks, grading, and learning
outcomes.
Transcript: A printed record of every course
you've taken at Isothermal and the grades
you've received. Transcripts may be obtained
from the Student Services Office.
To help you with words used by Isothermal Community College faculty and staff, here is a list of
frequently used terms and their definitions.
2011-2012
ACADEMIC
PLAN ER
7
AUGUST 2011 September
S M T W T F S
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18 19 20 21 22 23 24
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1 Monday • Student/Faculty Break
2 Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break
3 Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break
4 Thursday • Student/Faculty Break
5 Friday • Student/Faculty Break
6 Saturday
7 Sunday
8 Monday • Student/Faculty Break
9 Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break
10 Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break
11 Thursday • Student/Faculty Break
12 Friday • Student/Faculty Break
13 Saturday
14 Sunday
15 Monday • Student Break • Convocation - Faculty/Staff
16 Tuesday • Professional Development - Faculty/Staff
17 Wednesday • Last Chance Registration for Fall Semester
18 Thursday • Last Chance Registration for Fall Semester
19 Friday • First Day of Classes • Schedule Adjustments
20 Saturday
21 Sunday
22 Monday • Schedule Adjustments
23 Tuesday
24 Wednesday
25 Thursday
26 Friday
27 Saturday
28 Sunday
29 Monday
30 Tuesday • Last day to drop with a 75% refund
31 Wednesday
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Monday • Labor Day Holiday - College Closed
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Sunday • Patriot Day
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Saturday • Constitution Day
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Friday • Student/Faculty Fall Break (see inclement weather policy)
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Columbus Day
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday • Grub Day
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday • Academic Advising Day (Current Students)-No Classes
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday • Last day to apply for Fall 2011 Graduation
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Early Registration
Tuesday • Early Registration
Wednesday • Early Registration
Thursday • Early Registration
Friday • Early Registration
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Halloween
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NOVEMBER 2011 December
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Tuesday • Election Day
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Friday • Veterans Day
Saturday
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Thursday • Last Day to Drop with a "W"
Friday T
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Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed
Thursday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed
Friday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed
Saturday
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DECEMBER 2011 January
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Thursday • Learning College Student of the Semester Awards
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Wednesday
Thursday
Friday • Last Day of Classes
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • 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 • New Year's Eve
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JANUARY 2012
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Sunday • New Year's 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
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
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Wednesday • Professional Development Day - Faculty/Staff • No classes for Students
Thursday
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Sunday
Monday
Tuesday • Valentine's Day
Wednesday
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Sunday
Monday • President's Day
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MARCH 2012 April
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Friday • Last day to apply for Spring 2012 Graduation
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Friday
Saturday • St. Patrick's Day
Sunday
Monday
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Sunday
Monday
Tuesday • Academic Advising Day for Current Students • No Classes
Wednesday
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APRIL 2012 May
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Monday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012
Tuesday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012
Wednesday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012Tue
Thursday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012
Friday • Spring Holiday - College Closed
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Spring Holiday - College Closed
Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Thursday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Friday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy)
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday • Last Day to Drop with a "W" • Learning College Student of the Semester Awards
Friday • Office Professional Conference for Staff
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday • Sport's Day
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday • Award's Day
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
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MAY 2012 June
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Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday • Last Day of Classes
Thursday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes
Friday • Student/Faculty Break • REaCH Graduation
Saturday
Sunday • Mother's Day
Monday • Curriculum Graduation
Tuesday • Adult High School and GED Graduation • Last Chance Registration for Summer/Fall
Wednesday • First Day of Classes • Schedule Adjustments
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday • Last Day to Drop with a 75% refund
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Memorial Day Holiday - College Closed
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
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JUNE 2012 July
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Thursday • Last Day to apply for Summer 2012 Graduation
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Sunday • Father's Day
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
18
JULY 2012 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
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday • Independence Day Holiday - College Closed
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Open Registration for Fall 2012
Tuesday • Open Registration for Fall 2012
Wednesday • Open Registration for Fall 2012
Thursday • Open Registration for Fall 2012 • Last Day to Drop with a "W"
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday • Last Day of Classes
Thursday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes
Friday • Student/Faculty Break
Saturday
Sunday
Monday • Student/Faculty Break
Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break
Academ ic
Informa tion
Academic Load
Student Classification
Registration/Advising Forms
Senior Citizens
Tuition Refund Policy
Tuition Rates
Activity and Other Fees
Other Costs
Physical Education Fees
Financial Aid Programs
Academic Fresh Start
Academic Standing
Academic Alert
• Potential Consequences Related To
Ongoing Academic Alert
• Health Sciences
• Academic Standing Appeal
Auditing Courses
Student Records
Schedule Adjustments
Withdrawal From The College
• Administrative Withdrawal
Grading System
Grade Point Average
Grade Reports
Grade Appeals
Incomplete Policy
Graduation Exercises
Graduation Orders and Fees
20
Academic Load
Arts and Sciences - 21 credit hours (maximum hours)
Applied Sciences and Technology - 21 credit hours (maximum hours)
Business Sciences - 21 credit hours (maximum hours)
Approval from the appropriate dean is required to register for more than the
maximum hours.
Student Classification
Freshmen
have earned less than 30 credit hours
Sophomores
have earned 30 credit hours or more
Full-Time
enrolled for 12 or more credit hours
Part-Time
enrolled for less than 12 credit hours
Registration/Advising Forms
Refer to Appendixes G and H for samples
Registration/Advising Forms
Appendix G - Registration/Advising Form Student Worksheet
Appendix H - Student Registration Schedule
SENIOR CITIZENS
Senior citizens age 65 years and older as of the first day of class, who are North
Carolina residents, may enroll in up to six credit hours of curriculum classes
free of tuition charge on a space available basis for Fall and Spring terms only.
Tuition Refund Policy
A copy of the Tuition Refund Policy is available in the Student Services Office,
Student Center-see Appendix C.
Academic Information
21
Tuition Rates
In-State Rates
1 hour $ 56.50
2 113.00
3 169.50
4 226.00
5 282.50
6 339.00
7 395.50
8 452.00
9 508.50
10 565.00
11 621.50
12 678.00
13 734.50
14 791.00
15 847.50
16 904.00
1 hour $ 248.50
2 497.00
3 745.50
4 994.00
5 1,242.50
6 1,491.00
7 1,739.50
8 1,988.00
9 2,236.50
10 2,485.00
11 2,733.50
12 2,982.00
13 3,230.50
14 3,479.00
15 3,727.50
16 3,976.00
Out-of-State Rates
Activity Fee*
Fall and Spring Semesters
1 hour $2.00
2 hours $4.00
3 hours $6.00
4 hours $8.00
5 hours $10.00
6 hours $12.00
7 hours $14.00
8 hours $16.00
9 hours $19.00
or more
*No Fee for Summer Semester
Academic related Fees*
Backpacking Fee (PED 174) $25.00
ALL students pay the student activity fee
with the exception of Huskins, Concurrent
Enrollment, and senior citizen students.
Other Costs*
Books $1,000.00
(full-time student for one semester, approximate cost)
Graduation $50.00
(approximate cost)
*Fees are subject to change.
Other Fees*
LPN Testing Fees
First Semester $134.33
Second Semester $134.33
Third Semester $164.50
ADN Tutorial/Testing $418.00
ADN ATI Testing Fee $353.00
Returned Check Fee $10.00
(Charged first semester of entry into ADN ATI program)
*LPN/ADN Fees are non-refundable if student drops.
* Tuition rates are set forth by the NC General Assembly and are the same at all
community colleges in the state. The rates are subject to change effective July 1, 2011.
Academic Information
22
Financial Aid
If you need help paying for your college education at Isothermal Community
College, financial assistance may be available. For further information on how
to apply for the various forms of assistance go to the Financial Aid Office in the
Student Center.
Contact the Financial Aid office at (828) 286-3636 Ext 491.
fINANCIAL aID dEADLINES
In order for aid to be available for use for a particular semester, the student's
financial aid file and admissions file must be complete by a specific date. It is the
student’s responsibility to ensure their file is complete. Students must complete
the steps outlined below in order to secure financial aid at the time of registration.
1. Apply for admission, submit all high school and college transcripts or
GED scores, and complete the placement test, if needed.
2. Complete and submit the FAFSA at least two weeks prior to the
deadline. Applications are available online at fafsa.gov.
3. Complete and return all requested forms sent from Isothermal to the
Financial Aid Office by 4:30 pm on the deadline date.
Financial aid will be processed after the semester begins for students completing
files after the deadline date. These students will be responsible for payment of
tuition. Qualifying students may receive reimbursement at a later date.
Deadline Dates:
Fall 2011: Thursday, July 7, 2011
Spring 2012: Friday, November 18, 2011
Summer 2012: Friday, March 30, 2012
Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards
for Financial Aid Recipients
Federal regulations require students receiving federal student aid to maintain
satisfactory academic progress as defined by the institution. Federal student aid
includes the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity
Grant, Federal Work Study, and Federal Direct Student Loans. The North Caro-lina
Student Incentive Grant, the North Carolina Community College Grant,
and the North Carolina Educational Lottery Scholarship also observe these same
standards. The institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress policy must include
both qualitative (cumulative grade point average) and quantitative (hours earned
compared to hours attempted, as well as a maximum time frame) elements.
Academic Information
23
Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)
Students receiving financial aid at Isothermal Community College must
maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher. These standards
are consistent with academic standards required for graduation.
GPA requirements will be monitored at the end of each semester. Any
student earning less than the minimum required cumulative GPA shall
be placed on financial aid warning. The student will be notified of his/
her status in writing and may receive financial aid for one more semester
of enrollment, consecutive or otherwise. If the student does not earn the
minimum required cumulative grade point average by the end of the warning
semester, he/she will be placed on financial aid suspension. The student is
not eligible for aid while on suspension.
*Credit hours attempted will be cumulative and will include all hours for which
the student was enrolled as of the census date of each academic term for which
the student received a grade of A, B, C, D, F, I, W, or R.
**Cumulative GPA is computed by dividing the total number of quality points
earned by the total credit hours attempted for which the student received grades
of A, B, C, D, F, or I. No quality points are earned for a grade of I, and for
financial aid purposes it is treated as a failing grade until proven otherwise.
Maximum Time Frame
Any student receiving federal financial aid will have a maximum time
frame in which he/she is expected to complete a program of study. Federal
regulations require that the time frame be no more than 150% of the
established length of the current program. At Isothermal Community
College, the 150% time frame will be measured in terms of credit hours
attempted.*
For example: If a program requires 65 semester credit hours to
complete, then a student may receive financial aid for up to 97.5
(65 x 150%) semester hours attempted.
Once the student has attempted 150% of the credit hours allowed in his/
her program, he/she is no longer eligible for financial aid at Isothermal
Community College. Should the student complete a diploma or associate
degree program after losing eligibility, they should contact the Financial Aid
Office for a re-evaluation of their status.
Academic Information
24
*For this quantitative measure, credit hours attempted will be
cumulative and will include all hours for which the student was
enrolled on the census date of each academic term and received a grade
of A, B, C, D, F, I, W, or R. All classes will be counted regardless of
whether the class is part of the student’s current major or whether the
student received financial aid for the class.
Progression Rate
A student must successfully complete a minimum of 67% of cumulative
credit hours attempted. Progress in this area will be evaluated at the end of
each term. Any student falling below the 67% requirement shall be placed on
financial aid warning and will be notified of that status in writing. Students
on warning may receive financial aid for one more semester of enrollment,
consecutive or otherwise. If the student does not bring the completion rate
up to the required 67% by the end of the warning semester, financial aid
suspension will occur and all financial aid will be terminated. The student
will not be eligible for aid while on suspension.
Both the qualitative and quantitative standards are cumulative and include
all periods of enrollment at Isothermal Community College, even those for
which the student did not receive financial aid funds. The Academic Fresh
Start, discussed later in the catalog, will not improve a student’s standings
as far as financial aid satisfactory academic progress is concerned.
Effects of Academic Development Coursework
Students who have been accepted into a degree program and are required
to take Academic Development coursework, as determined by placement
testing, may receive financial aid until they have attempted a total of 30
semester hours. All semester hours attempted will be counted towards
the 30 hour maximum limit, regardless of the grade received. Academic
Development classes dropped prior to the beginning of a term will not be
counted towards the maximum limit.
Effects of Previous Credits
1. Transfer Students – Any student transferring from a school other
than Isothermal Community College will be considered to be
making satisfactory progress at the time of his/her enrollment. The
student’s maximum time frame will be reduced by the equivalent
number of credit hours attempted toward his/her degree.
Academic Information
25
2. Isothermal Community College Returning Students – Returning
students will have their cumulative GPA carried forward, subject
to the institutional policy regarding transfer of credit within
the institution. All credit hours attempted will be converted to
semester hours and carried forward. This policy is in accordance
with federal regulations stating that satisfactory academic progress
standards must cover all periods of the student’s enrollment,
including those periods for which the student did not receive
federal student aid funds.
3. Isothermal Graduates – If a student graduates from a program
at Isothermal Community College and desires to pursue another
degree, that student will assume the maximum time frame of the
new program.
Procedure for Reinstatement of Financial Aid
Students who have had aid terminated may reestablish eligibility for financial
aid in one of two ways: (1) By enrolling for subsequent semester(s) at his/
her own expense until satisfactory academic progress is achieved, or (2) By
the appeals process, if approved. Retroactive payments of financial aid for
periods in which a student did not meet satisfactory progress standards are
prohibited.
How to Appeal Financial Aid Suspension
To appeal financial aid suspension, a student must be able to demonstrate
mitigating circumstances. Mitigating circumstances are defined as injury or
illness of the student, death of a relative, change in employment situations,
or undue hardship caused by special circumstances. The procedure for appeal
is as follows:
1. A student will indicate in writing to the Financial Aid Director the
reason(s) why he/she did not make satisfactory academic progress
and why financial aid should not be terminated. Documentation
to support the appeal is encouraged.
2. The Financial Aid Director will review the appeal and determine
whether or not termination of aid is justified. The student will be
advised of the decision in writing.
3. Students with approved appeals will be placed in a probationary
status and will be required to follow an Academic Plan provided
by the Financial Aid Office. Students meeting the requirements of
the Academic Plan at the end of each semester will automatically
have their probationary status continued, if an eligible status has
not been attained. Students not meeting the requirements of the
Academic Plan will be placed on financial aid suspension and
will not be eligible for another appeal until they have completed
a minimum of six credit hours at their own expense and made
improvement to their standing.
Academic Information
26
Return oF Title IV Funds Procedure
Federal financial aid is awarded to a student under the assumption that the
student will attend college for the entire period for which the assistance is
awarded. For example, if the student is given aid for the fall semester, it is
assumed the student will attend college from the beginning of the fall se-mester
through the end of the fall semester. Federal financial aid regulations
specify how Isothermal Community College must determine the amount of
Federal Student Aid (FSA) assistance a student has earned if they withdraw
from school. The FSA programs that are covered by this law are: Federal
Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and Federal Supplemental Educational
Opportunity Grants (FSEOG).
When a student withdraws from all classes during a semester, the amount
of FSA program assistance the student has earned up to that point is de-termined
by a specific formula known as Return to Title IV. If the student
received more assistance than the student earned, the excess funds must
be returned by the college and/or the student. If the student received less
assistance than the amount the student earned, the student may be able to
receive those additional funds. For example, if the student completed 30
percent of the semester, the student earned 30 percent of the assistance they
were originally scheduled to receive. Once the student has completed more
than 60 percent of the semester, they are considered to have earned all the
assistance they were scheduled to receive.
If the student receives excess FSA program funds that must be returned, the
school must return a portion of the excess equal to the lesser of
1. your institutional charges multiplied by the unearned percentage
of your funds or
2. the entire amount of excess funds.
The college must return this amount even if it didn’t keep this amount of
your FSA program funds. If the college is not required to return all of the
excess funds, the student must return the remaining amount. Any amount
of unearned grant funds that must be returned is called an overpayment.
The amount of a grant overpayment that the student must repay is half of
the unearned amount. The student must make arrangements with the school
or the Department of Education to return the unearned grant funds.
Academic Information
27
POST-withdrawal disbursements
If the student did not receive all of the funds they earned, they may be due
a post-withdrawal disbursement. The college may automatically use all or a
portion of the student’s post-withdrawal disbursement for tuition, fees, and
room and board charges. For all other college charges, the college needs the
student’s permission to use the post-withdrawal disbursement. If the student
does not give permission, which some colleges ask for upon enrollment,
the student will be offered the funds. However, it may be in the student’s
best interest to allow the school to keep the funds to reduce their debt at
the school.
The requirements for FSA program funds when a student withdraws are
separate from any refund policy the college may have. Therefore, the student
may still owe funds to the college to cover unpaid institutional charges.
The college may also charge the student for any FSA program funds that
the college was required to return. If the student does not know what the
college’s refund policy is, they may ask for a copy. The college can also provide
you with the requirements and procedures for officially withdrawing from
college.
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) academic
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 Information
28
Academic Standing
Procedures regarding academic standing, suspension, and length of suspension
are approved by the President.
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. (See College Catalog under "Repeating Courses.")
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.
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.
Students may be referred to the Dean of Student Services 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 Student
Services and/or the Committee on Admissions, Academic Continuation, and
Records prior to re-entering. (Board approved policy: Academic standing)
Health sciences
Information regarding academic progression in health sciences programs
may be obtained in the academic departments.
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 Information
29
Auditing Courses
If you wish to audit (take a class without credit), you must register through
the regular procedure. Audits will be charged the same fee as taking classes for
credit. Notify your instructor when you begin the class. AN AUDIT CANNOT
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.
Student Records
Isothermal Community College, in the execution of its responsibilities to
students, must maintain accurate and confidential student records. The
Student Services Office has the responsibility for maintaining 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.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
Drop/Add
In order to officially drop or add a course, these steps should be followed:
1. Secure a Schedule Change form from the Department or
Secretary.
2. Have a Drop/Add approved by faculty advisor and instructor.
Students who wish to change their class schedule during
Schedule Adjustment Days are advised to drop and add courses
during the same registration session to avoid being charged
25% of the tuition for the dropped class.
3. Submit the Drop/Add form to Student Services to be officially
recorded.
NOTE: Students will not be allowed to add or change sections after
the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar and Semester Schedule
book. In addition, students will not be allowed to enter a class 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 college calendar. The Vice President for Academic and
Student Services may approve a drop after the deadline.
Academic Information
30
Withdrawal From College
All official withdrawals must:
1. Be made through the advisor one week before the last day of
classes for the term.
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.”
NOTE: Students will not be allowed to add or change sections after the
deadline listed in the Academic Calendar and Semester Schedule book.
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 college calendar. The Vice President for Academic and Student Services
may approve a drop after the deadline.
Administrative Withdrawal
An instructor, in consultation with the appropriate instructional administrator,
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 college 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, the appropriate Dean and completion of a re-admission form. If
a student is administratively withdrawn from more than one class in a semester,
re-admission to class will be considered on a class-by-class basis. Re-admission
forms may be obtained in the Student Services office.
If you leave school without officially withdrawing, you may receive the grade of
“F” in all courses.
Academic Information
31
Grading System
Instructors are responsible for establishing their own grading policy in accordance
with the college's letter grade system with qualitative descriptions.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
To compute your cumulative average: multiply the 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.
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.
Example:
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
Y No-credit-Audit 0
S Satisfactory
WP Withdrawn Progress
NS No Show
CE Credit By Exam
CR Transfer Credit
R Repeat
DE Diagnostic Exam
* Developmental Credit
% Granted an Academic Fresh Start
# Administrative Withdrawal
(per credit hour)
Academic Information
32
Requirements
Requirements for graduation will vary according to the curriculum.
You should refer to the program description in the college catalog to
determine course requirements for graduation. The college catalog on
record for graduation evaluation will be the current catalog. Be sure to
check with your advisor early if you have questions regarding program
requirements. A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is required in
all programs. Some programs require at least a grade of “C” or better
in all required courses.
In the case of students transferring into Isothermal Community
College, at least half of the credits required for graduation must be
earned at Isothermal Community College.
Graduation Orders and Fees
All orders for diplomas, caps and gowns, graduation invitations, and class rings
will be coordinated by the Records Office and placed through the bookstore.
You will be notified by mail regarding graduation orders.
Grade Reports
Your final grade report will be mailed to you at the completion of each semester.
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.
Incomplete Policy
A grade of “I” may be assigned if your course work is incomplete. The time
line for completion is established by the instructor. Prerequisite courses must
be completed before you can progress. The courses must be completed before
the end of the following semester or the grade automatically becomes an “F” in
your permanent record.
Graduation Exercises
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.
Academic Information
CO LLEGE
POLICI ES
Academic Misconduct
Attendance
• School Absence for Religious Reasons
Children on Campus
Complaint Policy
Computer Resources, Internet,
and Network Use Policy
Drug and Alcohol
Emergency Procedures
• First Aid
• Fire
• Bomb Threat
• Lock Down
Insurance
Nondiscrimination Statement
Parking
• Interim Motor Vehicle Policy
Sexual Harassment
Signs and Announcements
Student Unlawful Harassment/
Discrimination Policy
Telephone Calls
Theft and Loss
Tobacco Products
Weather Emergencies
• Inclement Weather Policy
• Tornado
Wireless Internet Access Guidelines
34
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.
Attendance
Regular class attendance is a student obligation. The student is also responsible
for all work, including tests and written assignments, and for all class meetings.
No right or privilege exists that permits a student to be absent from any given
number of class meetings. Instructors establish their own class attendance policy.
This attendance policy is explained in detail at the first class meeting and includes
the relationship of absences to grades. Students who stop going to class without
officially withdrawing may receive a grade of “F” at the end of the semester.
SCHOOL ABSENCE FOR RELIGIOUS REASONS
Isothermal Community College recognizes the right to students to be
absent from class for religious reasons. Students may request a maximum
of two excused class days per academic year for observances required
by their faith. In accordance with this right, the president will establish
procedures for requesting, documenting and excusing religious absences.
For the purposes of this policy, an academic year begins on the first day
of fall classes in August and ends on the last day of summer semester in
July each year. If any portion of a class day is missed, that day will be
counted as one class day absence. An absence in an online course will
be counted as a day if the course specifies participation on a particular
day or during a specific time frame. A day of religious observance is
defined as an observance that is part of a sincerely-held religious belief.
Students requesting absence from class for religious observance must
complete a request form and obtain approval at least two weeks prior
to the day of the absence. Completed forms should be submitted to
the records office in the student center for approval and the student
should then notify the instructor of each class missed. Students who
miss class for religious observance will be granted the opportunity to
make up work, complete alternate assignments or use the absence as a
dropped grade as determined by the instructor.
For more information on college policies see the College Policies and Procedures
Manual, which may be found in the Rutherford Campus Library. For Student
Rights, Responsibilities, and Judicial Procedures, see Appendix A.
College Policies
35
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.
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 procedures for responding
to these complaints. For complete information, see Appendix K.
Computer Resources, Internet, and Network
Use Policy Policy No: II:08:00
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 College’s
research, educational and administrative purposes. 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 access and
proper management of these resources.
Acceptable and Unacceptable Uses
The College abides by the guidelines and policies of the NC Information
Resource Management Commission (IRMC). The computer resources owned
and operated by the 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
College’s computer resources.
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 individual’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 another individual’s work;
5. Using hardware or software sniffers to examine network traffic, except by
appropriate College personnel, to diagnose the network for bottlenecks or
other problems;
College Policies
36
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, or attempting to defeat or circumvent any
security measures or controls;
8. Consuming food and/or beverages in computer labs, computer class-rooms,
library or in any other areas restricted to protect systems;
9. Wastefully using finite resources such as large amounts of bandwidth
including but not limited to, downloading music, television shows, soft-ware
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 cir-cumstances,
but the College cannot guarantee functionality and assumes
no responsibility for configuration of or damage to non college equip-ment;
11. Using chat rooms, instant messaging, or social networking websites other
than in support of the research, educational and administrative purposes
of the College;
12. Sending hate mail, chain letters and anonymous or pseudonymous mes-sages;
13. 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;
14. Using computer resources for political campaigns or distribution of po-litical
material;
15. Using computer resources for fraud, financial gain or for any commercial
or illegal activity;
16. Disclosing student information in violation of the provisions of the Fam-ily
Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974; and
17. Violating copyright laws and/or fair use provisions through: 1) illegal
peer-to-peer file trafficking by downloading or uploading pirated or il-legal
material including, but not limited to, software and music files; and
2) reproducing or disseminating Internet materials, except as permitted
by law or by written agreement with the owner of the copyright.
Reservation of Rights and Limits of Liability
1. The College reserves all rights in the use and operation 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.
College Policies
37
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
information 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 re-sources.
6. The College makes efforts to maintain computer resources in good work-ing
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
actions of anyone using the Internet through the College’s network or
College’s computers.
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 and 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 certain College personnel based on
job responsibilities, as determined by the employee’s appropriate Vice President,
and to all students who are enrolled in a curriculum program. The use of College-provided
e-mail accounts must be related 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 or otherwise violate
the provisions within this policy.
Any student under the age of 18, including REaCH and concurrently enrolled
students, must have a parent or legal guardian sign the Computer Resources,
Internet, and Network Use form and the Student E-mail Application form giving
permission for that student to have e-mail access. The forms must be returned
to the appropriate instructor during the first week of classes for continued e-mail
access.
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
College Policies
38
electronic communication, the College cannot assure the privacy of an indi-vidual’s
use of the College’s electronic mail resources or the confidentiality of
particular messages that may be created, transmitted, received or stored.
The College does not monitor electronic mail routinely but may do so to the
extent permitted by law as the College deems necessary. Students and employees
should not have any expectation of privacy with their 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 appropriate 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, the following:
A. In the course of an investigation triggered by indications of misconduct
or misuse;
B. As needed to protect health and safety of students, employees or the
community at large;
C. As needed to prevent interference with the academic mission of the
College;
D. As needed to locate substantive information required for College busi-ness
that is not more readily available;
E. As needed to respond to legal actions; and
F. As needed to fulfill the College’s obligations to third parties.
Electronic mail, including that of students, may constitute "educational records"
as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20
U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). Electronic mail that meets the definition
of educational records is subject to the provisions of FERPA. The College may
access, inspect and disclose such records under conditions set forth in FERPA.
(See the College Student Handbook for selected guidelines, procedures and
definitions regarding FERPA.)
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.
Violations
Each individual is ultimately responsible for his/her own actions. Failure to
exercise responsible, ethical behavior will result in disciplinary action up to
and including dismissal. Students may be sanctioned according to procedures
described in the Student Handbook and other users may be barred permanently
from using College computers and network access.
College Policies
39
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.
Drug and Alcohol
The possession and/or use of any non-prescribed controlled substance as defined
in Chapter 90 of the General Statues of North Carolina and federal laws is not
permitted on the campus of Isothermal Community College. The consumption of
alcohol or the possession of an open container which contains alcoholic beverages
is prohibited on the campus 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 State
ABC Codes and of non exclusive 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 and the
College Drug and Alcohol Policy for further information.
Emergency Procedures
When an emergency occurs, such as accidents resulting in serious injury or sudden
illness, which requires emergency medical attention, students should call 911 or
on their cell phone or dial 9 for an outside line and 911 from a campus phone.
Then notify Campus Enforcement at (828) 289-5850. Describe the nature of the
emergency and indicate the location of the emergency.
First Aid
For minor medical needs, first aid supplies are available in each building,
the Physical Education Office, and the shop classrooms. The college has no
facilities for medical treatment other than for minor first aid and can assume
no responsibility for treatment of injuries or illness of students.
Fire
In case of fire, sound the alarm, using the nearest red fire box and leave the
building quickly but in an orderly way. Use the exit route posted in the
hallway in each building. Call 911 on a personal cell phone or on campus
dial 9 for an outside line and 911, then notify Campus Enforcement at
(828) 289-5850.
NOTE: Sounding the alarm when there is no fire is against the state
law of North Carolina.
College Policies
40
Bomb Threat
Report bomb threats of any description to the Vice President of
Administrative Services, the College President or the Vice President of
Academic and Student Services and Institutional Assessment.
lock down
If you are informed of a lock down situation, please cooperate with proper
authorities. Leaving the classroom or the building in such a situation may
put you at greater risk.
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.
Nondiscrimination Statement
Isothermal Community College is dedicated to equality of opportunity for its staff,
students, and community. Isothermal Community College does not discriminate
against students, employees, or applicants on the grounds of race, color, religion,
age, gender, national origin, veteran status, 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 Services 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 he
or she has 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) 286-3636 ext. 202
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.
College Policies
41
Interim Motor Vehicle Policy
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.
Signs and 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 permission 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 defamation, obscen-ity,
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.
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. Accord-ingly,
forms of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and other violations of civil
rights are prohibited. See Appendix L for policy details.
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 Student Services
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.
College Policies
42
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
Tobacco Products
The use of tobacco products of any kind inside the buildings of Isothermal Com-munity
College campuses is prohibited. Smoking is prohibited within twenty-five(
25) feet of all building entrances on the campuses of Isothermal Community
College. (Policy No.:III:01:13)
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.
Weather Emergencies
The college website www.isothermal.edu usually will 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. 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!
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.
Tornado
In case of a tornado warning, you will be instructed to take cover in the
designated areas of each building. Most tornado-related deaths are caused
by head injuries from flying debris, so if you are outside during threatening
weather, seek shelter immediately in the nearest building.
43
Wireless internet Access Guidelines
Access
• Free wireless Internet access is provided at Isothermal Community College.
The college’s wireless network is open to all visitors and does not require a
special password.
• Wireless service is available to users at this institution during normal operating
hours, but the college does NOT guarantee connection to the Internet.
• In accessing the college’s wireless Internet service, all users agree to abide by the
terms of the Isothermal Community College Computer Resources, Internet,
and Network Use policy. (See "College Policies")
• To protect its network and users, Isothermal Community College reserves
the right to terminate a connection at any time or to withdraw wireless access
entirely.
Note: College staff cannot accept liability for personal equipment that is brought
to the college and therefore cannot assist with configuration, installation, trouble
shooting, or support of wireless devices, including but not limited to laptops and
Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs).
Rules of the Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy apply.
In addition:
• Users are not permitted to tamper with any equipment belonging to the Col-lege
(e.g. disconnecting equipment in order to use outlets or network cables).
• Laptop computer users are expected to be considerate of those nearby and are
expected to use headphones when playing sound files.
• Users wishing filtered access should purchase and install filtering software for
their personal laptop; the College does not filter wireless access.
• While using the wireless network, users may not damage or disrupt service on
the college's computer networks or utilize any means to intercept other users’
data.
• The College does not provide the ability to print from the wireless network.
Files must be saved to a laptop or storage device, such as a flash drive, and
printed at a later time.
College Policies
Facilities
and Services
Advising Center
Bookstore
Learning Support and Retention
• Career Services/Counseling
• Testing Services
Computer Labs
Cosmetology
Disability Support Services
Distance Learning
Food Services
The Performing Arts and Conference Center
at the Foundation
Library
Polk County Center
Recreation and Relaxation
Small Business Center
Supplemental Instruction Services
Telephones
45
Bookstore
The campus bookstore is located in the Student Center, but has its own exterior entry
next to the main entrance on the amphitheater side of the building. In addition to
books and classroom supplies, the bookstore carries a large supply of notebooks,
apparel with the Isothermal logo, book bags, backpacks, and other specialty items.
Bookstore profits are used for college projects and services.
Graduation orders are placeD in the bookstore.
Bookstore Hours:
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.–8:30 p.m.
Friday 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Summer Semester
Monday - Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
1st week of semester
Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
Refund/Exchange Policy
A full refund and/or exchange will be given on new textbooks under the following
conditions:
1. You present your cash register receipt.
2. Refund and/or exchange is made within two weeks of the purchase date.
3. All checks must allow ten days to clear before refund is allowed.
4. The book is in new condition, no marks, no names, and no folded pages.
5. Defective books will be replaced free of charge if returned by the end of semester.
6. Special order books, paperback novels, school supplies, and study charts are not
eligible for refunds.
7. Even exchanges are allowed on new books with receipt within two weeks of the pur-chase
date.
8. Refunds will be mailed when necessary.
ADvising Center
The Advising Center supports Isothermal's overall mission to improve life through
learning by providing students with correct information that helps lead them
towards their destinations. Through collaborative efforts, the Advising Center is
staffed by professional and caring faculty and staff from across campus who serve
as advisors. The Advising Center is located in the Student Center Building near
the pool. Please call 828-286-3636 ext. 313 for hours of operation.
Facilities and Services
46
Computer Labs
Lifelong Learning Center
Computers are available for student use on a space available basis for word
processing and Internet access. Access to the lab will be limited to times it
is not in use for scheduled classes. Acceptable use policies are posted. Failure
to exercise good judgement in using these resources may result in severe
disciplinary action. If you have questions about appropriate use, be sure to
ask an instructor or lab supervisor. For additional computer resources, see
“Library” page 50. Computer Lab Hours: Day and Evening Hours may
vary. Please check the hours posted on the door or call the Lab at ext. 372
Business Sciences
The Computer Center located in room 130 of the Business Sciences building
is open to all curriculum students. The computers have Microsoft Office 2010
installed as well as some specialized software for certain classes. Access to the
Internet is also available. Center hours do vary by semester and are posted
beside the door. Students must sign the Isothermal Community College
Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy each semester. For
information call 828-286-3636 ext. 230.
Drop in during the following hours:
Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Tuesday - Thursday 4:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Fridays 8:15 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
or call (828) 286-2319 or (828) 286-3636 ext. 249
Cosmetology
The Cosmetology Department in the Student Center offers a variety of services
from hair cutting, styling and braiding, to manicures and facials, at very reasonable
prices. Isothermal Community College students receive a discount with a valid
student ID card. For chemical services, clients should arrive at 9:00 a.m. for day
class and between 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. for evening class.
Facilities and Services
47
Disability Support 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 Coordinator. 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
Coordinator, in the Student Center at (828) 286-3636 ext. 422.
Distance Learning
Taking some or all of your classes online or in a hybrid format 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
your children while pursuing your degree at Isothermal Community College.
Online classes give you access to curriculum 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, but
they are not suitable for all students or situations. If you are considering taking
an online class for academic credit, Appendix E in this handbook will help you
to further evaluate your suitability for Distance Learning classes. Please consult
your advisor or the instructor of the online course for assistance with this decision.
Listed on the next page are definitions of Distance Learning and traditional class
formats to help you decide which one best fits your needs and learning style.
Facilities and Services
48
Section Number Assignments 9
In order to facilitate the registration process, please be sure you meet all the requirements to be an online student at Isothermal. A list of these requirements can
be found online at www.isothermal.edu/dltech.htm Students taking online courses should also be aware of the special procedures involved in beginning an online
course. Step-by-step instructions are available online at www.isothermal.edu/onlcourse.htm. Once you have registered for an online course and have paid your
tuition, you must email your instructor on the first class day of the semester. Your instructor will then make the course materials available to you. Failure to
contact your instructor and to begin participating in the course on the first day of the term may result in you being dropped
from the course without a refund.
Many traditional classes at Isothermal require computer skills, internet access and email addresses for research and stu-dent/
faculty communication. Isothermal has computers with internet access located in the Library, Lifelong Learning Cen-ter,
and Business sciences building that are for student use.
Section Number Assignments
effective 2011Su
Section assignments consist of two components- a 3 digit number and a 2 character method of instruction code or in
house special coding.
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 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.
Traditional TR College credit or continuing education course where the instructor and students meet face-to-face,
according to designated dates/times/location and where there is no Internet or other
method of delivery requirement.
Self Paced SP Self Paced Developmental courses only
Internet or Online IN College credit or continuing education course where 100%of the instruction is delivered
through the Internet.
Hybrid HY College credit or continuing education course where the primary 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.
Web-supported or
Web-assisted
WB College credit or continuing education course where the primary delivery is via traditional
face-to-face method with a requirement that students have Internet
access as a supplemental part of the course. 50%or less of the instruction is delivered
through the Internet.
Information Highway/
Two-way Video
IH College credit or continuing education 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.
Independent Study IS Self-paced course in which a student progresses through the instructional materials at their
own pace, regardless of method of delivery.
10/04/10
Facilities and Services
49
Sign-on Procedure for MOODLE
Student user accounts are created on the first day of classes each semester.
If you are registered for classes this semester, and today is the first day of
classes or after the first day of classes, use the following username and pass-word
formats (lowercase letters only, NO uppercase please):
Proper username format is as follows:
• first letter of your first name (first initial)
• first letter of your middle name (not required if you do not have a
middle name) (middle intitial)
• your full last name,
• two digits for the day (not month or year) you were born.
For example, a student named John Q. Public born on the 4th of any
month would login as: jqpublic04
Proper password format is as follows:
• first letter of your first name (first initial)
• first letter of your last name (last initial)
• last 4 digits of your Social Security Number (SSN).
For example, a student named John Q. Public with the last four SSN
digits 1234 would use the following password: jp1234
If you need further assistance please visit:
www.isothermal.edu/onlcourse.htm or call toll-free (866) 471-4251.
Food Services
Food and beverage vending machines are located in the dining area of the
Student Center and in various buildings around campus.
THE PERFORMING ARTS AND CONFERENCE CENTER at
THE FOUNDATION
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
and plays, to corporate sales meetings and wedding receptions. Cultural events
include a variety of performance disciplines including dance, theatre, popular and
classical music, family friendly variety shows, and 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. The
facility box office (828) 286-9990 is located at the second floor entrance just
off the North parking lot. Its hours are T-F, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Some special
ticket prices are available for most foundation sponsored shows by showing your
valid student I.D. The conference center space can be rented for both public and
private events including proms, weddings, sales seminars, trade shows, meetings,
retreats, and reunions. For facility rental information call the Director at (828)
286-3636 ext. 261.
Facilities and Services
50
LEARNING SUPPORT AND RETENTION
CAREER SERVICES/COUNsELING
Career Center 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.
Personal counseling services include timely support and relevant referrals for
students 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.
TESTING SERVICES
Testing services include the administration of ASSET and COMPASS
placement tests, GED tests, and the TEAS, PSB, and Challenge Exams for
applicants to health sciences programs. New students (with the exception
of some certificate applicants) are required to take a placement test prior
to admission to Isothermal Community College. Placement tests measure
students’ skill level in writing, reading, basic mathematics, and algebra.
The placement tests provide valuable assistance in initial course placement.
ASSET is a paper/pencil administered placement test, and COMPASS is
an un-timed computerized placement testing program.
Facilities and Services
51
Library
The college library is located near the center of campus overlooking the lake and
provides many materials and services you may need in support of your courses
as well as a quiet place to study or relax. Public computers in the lobby provide
access to Microsoft Office and various other software, the Internet, and NC
LIVE resources and other research databases. Passwords for off-campus access
to NC LIVE and the other research databases are available upon request, either
in person, or through the e-mail link on the library homepage. The library
website, www.isothermal.edu/library/, provides guidance with research, writing
papers, and using documentation styles, as well as links to electronic resources.
Free wireless internet access is provided throughout the library building. The
CMC Library Consortium online catalog www.cmclibraries.org, allows you
to locate materials in the college library, in other areas of the college such as
the Small Business Center, and in any of the public libraries in Rutherford and
Polk counties. Apply for a free library card from one of the member libraries to
borrow materials from any of the locations. The library does not sell textbooks;
please visit the College Bookstore to purchase books and other items. Additional
information about policies, procedures, and services is in the Library Handbook,
available in print in the library and electronically on the library website under
“Library Services.”
The library is committed
to helping our students
recognize the value of
information literacy, or
the ability to access, re-trieve,
evaluate, and use
information effectively
and ethically. Informa-tion
literacy includes the ability to: determine the need for information;
effectively search various electronic and print resources; retrieve and or-ganize
information from a variety of sources; record and properly format
citation data; and refrain from plagiarism. According to the American
Library Association, it is necessary for students to develop these critical
skills in order to become “independent lifelong learners.” The library
staff is dedicated to helping students learn these proficiencies, and is glad
to assist anyone with questions or concerns about information literacy.
American Library Association. Association of College and Research Libraries.
Information Literacy Advisory Committee. Introduction to Information Literacy.
7 February 2011. www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/acrl/issues/infolit/overview/intro/
index.cfm.
Library Hours
Monday – Thursday 7:45 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Friday 7:45 a.m.–4:15 p.m.
Holiday, Summer and Semester
Break hours as posted.
Telephone
Reference and Circulation Desk – (828) 286-4636
Facilities and Services
52
Polk County CENTER
Polk County Center offers a wide variety of non-credit courses (continuing
education) ranging from self-enrichment classes to those which offer training to
volunteer firemen, rescue personnel, and certifications in allied health occupations.
Courses to improve occupational skills are offered as well. Adult Basic Education,
Adult High School, and General Education Diploma (GED) programs are available.
English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are offered for persons whose native
language is not English.
Library services for the Polk County Center are provided by the Polk County Public
Library in cooperation with the Isothermal Community College Library.
The Polk County Center is fortunate to have dedicated volunteers actively
participating in the Polk County Center I.C.C. Foundation, Inc. The Foundation
has a significant role in fundraising, provides scholarship aid, and promotes
Isothermal Community College in the community.
Bulletins listing courses and special events are mailed
out every three months, and news releases of curriculum
offerings and special events are placed in local papers.
Polk Center Preview appears weekly in the Tryon Daily
Bulletin.
Polk County Center is a vital part of the community. Non-profits, civic and
government agencies utilize the facility for meetings. Special events, including
musical concerts, are offered to the public free of charge at least once a month.
A Holiday Open House is held each year in mid-December.
The Polk County Center is located in Columbus at 1255 West Mills Street.
A continuous art exhibit of student work is displayed in the gallery.
Regular hours of operation:
Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
and other prearranged times including weekends
Additional information may be obtained by visiting the campus,
calling (828) 894-3092 or visiting our website at
www.isothermal.edu/polk/
Facilities and Services
53
Recreation and Relaxation
The Student Center with its large two-level lounge area is designed for your
relaxation. A television is available, and food and beverage vending machines
are nearby.
Just outside the Student Center are two tennis courts that you may use at any
time except during scheduled tennis classes. If you enjoy walking, you might
want to take a leisurely stroll around the lake. Enjoy walking the beautiful route
around the lake, or relax at the benches and picnic tables along the path.
Small Business Center
If you are considering a new business venture, an expansion of your current
business, or need help in developing a business plan, Isothermal Community
College's Small Business Center can work for you. Generally designed for the
company with fewer than 100 employees, the Small Business Center provides
additional training, one-on-one counseling, access to a state-wide network of
business experts or the professional contacts and information needed by the small
business. Our resource center also provides the latest literature and audiovisual
material on operating a small business.
Supplemental Instruction Services (SI):
Supplemental Instruction, a peer tutorial program, is available in courses which
are historically difficult for students, such as chemistry, anatomy & physiology,
history, and math. SI Leaders are students who have previously excelled in the
course and then sit through the course again, take notes, and do homework in
preparation for the SI sessions. SI Leaders facilitate two sessions per week and
students who are enrolled in the SI course may attend as many sessions as they
wish. Ask your advisor for more information concerning this free service.
Math Tutoring Lab
A Math Tutoring Lab is available to provide assistance to students enrolled
in many of the math courses offered at Isothermal. The schedule and
courses vary, so please check with your instructor to find out when help is
available for your math course.
The Writing Lab
The Writing Lab is a support service for Isothermal Community College
students. The lab offers help with all types of writing, research, paper
formatting, study skills, reading comprehension, public speaking, and test
proctoring. It is not limited to students in English classes; it is for all students
in all classes who may need help with language arts. The lab is walk-in (no
appointment is necessary), but students do need to sign in as they arrive
and sign out when they leave. Computers are available for students who
are utilizing the lab for additional help; however, this lab is not an open
computer lab. The Writing Lab is located in the Administration Building,
Room 210. If you have questions about the Writing Lab, you may call
(828)286-3636, Ext. 429.
Facilities and Services
54
TELEPHONES
Courtesy Phones
Available for your convenience in the following locations:
Administration 1st and 2nd floor
Business Sciences Hallway
Library Lobby
Applied Science Lobby
Information Technology Hallway
PAY PHONE
Student Services Hallway
Foundation 1st Floor Hallway
WEBSITE
The college website is located at www.isothermal.edu and is your online
information resource for: admissions procedures, calendars, catalogs,
financial aid, forms, schedules, scholarships, and much more.
Facilities and Services
PRE-HEALTH SCIENCES PROGRAMS
Health Sciences Programs Available Are:
• Associate Degree in Nursing • Surgical Technology
• Practical Nursing Education (LPN) • Health Transfer
Go to www.isothermal.edu/career/health-sciences/ for
Information Packets and Schedules of Nursing and Surgical Technology Information Meetings.
LPN and Surgical Technology
Tina M Porter, BS
Counseling/Health Sciences Specialist
(828) 286-3636 Ext. 361
tporter@isothermal.edu
Associate Degree in Nursing
Susan V. Hendrick, MEd, LPC
Health Sciences Counselor
(828) 286-3636 Ext. 441
shendrick@isothermal.edu
GET TO KNOW YOUR ADVISORS WHO ARE LOCATED IN THE LEARNING SUPPORT
AND RETENTION OFFICE TO HELP YOU!
Student
Activities
Clubs and Organizations
Grub Day and Sports Day
News Stories, Announcements, and Events
Identification Cards
Publications
56
Student Government Association (SGA)
All students who pay a student activity fee are members of the SGA, which
promotes the interests of the students, improves facilities, plans functions, and
assists other student organizations. To find out more information about SGA,
contact the Student Activities Coordinator in Room 16 in the Student Center
Lobby or visit the website at www.isothermal.edu/sga.htm. (Board approved
policy: Student Government)
Afro-American Club
The purpose of this club is to create more interest and understanding in black
culture, to develop character, to encourage improvement in student-faculty
communications, and to strengthen the confidence of young men and women in
themselves and in their work. It is open to all students regardless of race, gender,
or religion.
Art and computer design club (ACDC)
The Art and Computer Design Club promotes art and design through visual
communications. ACDC club members adopt a project annually through which
they utilize their skills and talents to affect the quality of student life.
Cosmetology Club
The purpose of this club is to provide activities relevant to the changing fashion
industry and to bring to the campus outstanding artists in all aspects of the field
of Cosmetology. Information about career opportunities is provided for those
just entering the field.
Foothills Nursing Consortium
Student Nurses' Association
The purpose of this club is to provide programs representative of fundamental
and current professional interests and concerns and to aid in the development
of the whole person, his/her professional role, and his/her responsibility for the
health care of people in all walks of life.
International Association
of Administrative Professionals (IAAP)
This club is designed to assist career-oriented business students in developing a
better understanding of the secretarial profession and the business world. To be
a member of this club you must be enrolled in a business curriculum.
CHARTERED Clubs and Organizations
(Clubs and organizations that may receive SGA funding)
The college encourages participation in student organizations and activities.
Students are encouraged to express their views on matters of interest to the student
body through participation on a variety of standing college organizations. (Board
approved policy: Student Activities)
Student Activities
57
Intramural Sports
This program gives all students an opportunity to engage in various programs of
physical activity, such as basketball, softball, tennis, golf, badminton, volleyball
and swimming.
ISOTHERMAL EDUCATION SOCIETY
The purpose of this club is to improve learning and standards in Day Care.
UNCOMMON Male MENTORING Club (UMMC):
The three primary purposes of the UMMC are to increase personal engagement
with faculty members, staff, and college life; provide academic and personal
skills development and enrichment focused on the minority male experience;
and develop programming focused on the minority male that is appropriate for
the entire college community. Members of the UMMC are students who have
completed all or part of the year-long Minority Male Fellowship Program.
Phi Beta Lambda
The Omega Theta Chapter is open to all students interested in the field of business
and who are enrolled in a business program. Members are required to maintain
a minimum of 2.0 GPA. The purpose of this club is to help the student develop
competent, aggressive business leadership; strengthen self-confidence; create
interest in and understanding of business occupations; and improve and establish
standards for entrance into business occupations.
Phi Theta Kappa
This International Honor Society for two-year colleges recognizes students of
top academic standing at Isothermal Community College. Our chapter is Sigma
Chi. Students must have accumulated twelve(12) hours of course work within an
Associate of Arts, Associate of Sciences or Associate of Applied Sciences degree
program and have a cumulative GPA of 3.5. They must also be a currently enrolled
student at Isothermal Community College.
Student Practical Nurses’ Club
This organization’s purpose is to promote a professional and social atmosphere for
students in the LPN program, and also to enhance character and professionalism
in men and women.
Student Activities
58
OTHER RECOGNIZED CLUBS and Organizations
(Clubs and organizations that are recognized by the SGA, but are not
eligible for funds)
CHESS CLUB
The Chess Club engages the minds of its members as well as promotes healthy
student, faculty and staff fun and competition through the vehicle of chess.
Connections Outreach
Connections Outreach is touching our campus and community needs one life at a
time by providing a network for individuals to seek guidance and encouragement.
It is open to any student enrolled at Isothermal Community College.
MACHINING TECHNOLOGY CLUB
The purpose of the Machining Technology Club is to enhance the knowledge
and interest of students in machining and related fields as well as to provide
opportunities for student leadership development.
STUDENT WRITER’S ASSOCIATION
The purpose of the Writer’s Association is to encourage aspiring student writers
and enhance the skills of the craft as well as promote appreciation of the diversity
of ethnic and cultural literature and the great classics.
TWIN PHOENIX KARATE CLUB
The purpose of the Twin Phoenix Karate Club is for faculty, staff, and students
to have a time and place to practice martial arts together. Twin Phoenix wants
to show that learning is a lifelong process and all of us can continue to learn and
develop our skills. It is open to all college students regardless of previous training
(or a lack there of ) in different styles of martial arts. Beginners are encouraged
to attend. It is a free club and is always looking for new members.
CAMPUS EVENTS
Grub Day and Sports Day
On Grub Day, held in the fall, students, faculty, and staff are invited to
participate in a variety of games and activities sponsored by campus clubs.
On Sports Day, held in the spring, the entire campus community may
participate in serious (or humorous) events.
On both Grub Day and Sports Day, classes usually are suspended from
11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Students who have paid the student activity fee are
served a free picnic lunch or supper; others may be required to pay a small fee.
Grub Day and Sports Day are the only two days of the year
when fishing is allowed in the lake. . . sun-up to sun-down.
Student Activities
59
Identification Cards
Students who are enrolled in curriculum course work during fall and spring
semesters are required to pay the student activity fee. Identification (ID) cards
are offered to students who pay the student activity fee.
The card provides students with their student identification number. We strongly
encourage students to memorize this number, because it is frequently requested
across campus by advisors, financial aid staff, bookstore staff, and the business of-fice.
Please note that this number is to be used in lieu of a Social Security number
as it is more secure. A temporary card providing students with their identification
number can be obtained at the office of Student Services.
1. Only students who have paid the student activity fee may receive a
student ID card. The student activity fee is waived for senior citizens
and Dual Enrollment/Huskins students. An ID card will not be made
for Dual Enrollment or Huskins students. Interested senior citizens may
elect to receive an ID free of charge.
2. This official identification card should be carried by the student at all
times on the college campus.
3. The card must be presented when requested by college officials or at
college activities on and off the college premises.
4. The card is not transferable to another person. There will be a charge of
$5.00 for ID card replacement. If the student would like his picture
remade, there is a charge of $5.00 as well.
5. The card should not be altered in any way.
6. This card is the property of Isothermal Community College. If found,
please return to Student Services.
7. Students may elect to have their cards reprinted yearly without a card
replacement charge.
8. ID cards are made during the first few weeks of the fall and spring
semester by the Student Services staff. Students who have lost or broken
their ID cards must wait to pay the card replacement fee and have their
cards remade after the published date.
The ID card provides the following:
• Automatic membership in the Student Government Association of
Isothermal Community College, which allows students to run for
officer or senator in the SGA and to vote in the election
• Free admission to some activities sponsored by the college
• Discounts at some of the local stores, restaurants, and for Isothermal
Cosmetology Services.
Student Activities
60
News Stories, Announcements and Events
You can access the latest college news releases, feature stories, photography, and
coming events announcements from the college’s website at www.isothermal.edu.
On the homepage, simply click on the News link to go to news events and features.
Most news found at this location will be posted for approximately one month.
Also, news announcements are posted in a variety of locations on the Isothermal
website, e-mailed to student e-mail accounts, and posted on Facebook and Twitter.
Isothermal Community College news announcements and feature stories can be
found on a regular basis in The Daily Courier newspaper (Rutherford County)
and The Tryon Daily Bulletin (Polk County). A spotlight on Isothermal news
can also be found ‘Inside Isothermal,’ a feature in The Daily Courier, written by
the Public Information Office.
None of these publications may contain, encourage, or promote violations
of public laws or regulations of the college.
Publications
The ANURAN is the college’s annual literary and arts journal. It is designed
as a published collection of poems, essays, and photography, the culmination
of a yearly contest drawing on the talents of Isothermal and the surrounding
communities.
Student publications of Isothermal Community College must abide by state
and federal laws governing proper journalistic behavior as well as local college
regulations.
At its discretion Isothermal may provide Directory Information in accordance with
the provisions of FERPA to include: student name, major field of study, dates of
attendance, degrees, honors and awards received, email address, photograph, and
participation in officially recognized activities.
Student Activities
Crime
Awarenes
A Commitment to Safety
Reporting Criminal Activity
Campus Enforcement and Campus Assistance
Crime Risk Triangle
Cyber Safety Tips
Dates and Acquaintances
Safety Habits While Driving
Registered Sex Offenders
Sexual Assault
Warning Signs:
How You Can Help Prevent Campus Violence
Weapons on Campus
Where Can You Go For Help?
Resource Phone Numbers
Campus Enforcement
(828) 289-5850
62
A COMMITMENT TO SAFETY
The safety of the students who attend Isothermal Community College and the
staff and faculty who work here is of the highest importance. We hope that
what you read here will cause all of you to join with us in making safety a high
priority. Be alert, be aware - you can determine in many cases whether you are
going to be a victim or not.
We at the college want to know your concerns, and we ask that you not hesitate
to report any concerns you have. We want everyone to join together in making
the Isothermal Community College as safe as we possibly can.
REPORTING CRIMINAL ACTIVITY
Anyone who is a victim of, or a witness to, a criminal action at the Polk Center,
Rutherfordton Center or Rutherford Campus of Isothermal Community Col-lege
should notify appropriate law enforcement authorities by dialing 911 (If a
campus phone is used, dial 9 first for an outside line). The campus switchboard
operator should also be notified by dialing “0.” The operator will notify college
administration and campus enforcement. All incidents should be reported as soon
as possible to college administration or campus enforcement at (828) 289-5850.
Each year students are informed of the security procedures and what they should
do if they are a victim or witness to a criminal action. This information, other
safety measures, and statistics on campus crime are presented in the Student
Handbook and discussed in ACA 115. The Student Handbook is distributed
widely in print and made available on Isothermal Community College's website.
Also, safety oriented workshops and activities are offered on campus. Monitor
your student email and Isothermal's Facebook page for information regarding
these opportunities. You may also sign up to follow Isothermal on Twitter.
See Appendix D for further information on crime statistics for Spindale campus
and Polk County Center. If crimes are reported to campus enforcement or local
authorities that are considered to represent a continuing threat to the campus
community, timely warning will be provided to the campus community.
Students who are involved in criminal activity (on campus or through college
sponsored activities) or other activities that violate the student code of conduct
will be subject to college judicial procedures and possibly referred to local authori-ties
for prosecution. For further information on students rights, responsibilities,
and judicial procedures (includes information on disciplinary proceedings and
related sanctions), see Appendix A.
As required by the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, informa-tion
regarding campus crime statistics is available in Appendix D.
Crime Awareness
63
Minimize opportunity, which is the easiest of the three elements to control, and
you minimize your risk of becoming a victim of crime.
A criminal has the DESIRE and the ABILITY
to commit a crime. A victim provides the
OPPORTUNITY for the criminal to act.
Crime Risk Triangle
The three basic elements necessary for a crime to occur. Crime
Risk
DESIRE
ABILITY
OPPORTUNITY
CYber safety tips
In the past few years, social networking sites, such as Facebook and MySpace,
have become a rite of passage on college campuses. The best prevention tool
for the dangers that students may face on these sites is education. The National
Campus Safety Awareness Month organization recommends the following to
keep yourself and your identity safe:
• Watch what you post on the Internet (especially sites such as Facebook and
MySpace). You never know who is looking at your information. It could be
stalkers, future employers, or family members. You can’t control who accesses
information about you that you post. Be careful.
• Only shop with companies you know. Always use a secure browser. NEVER
give out bank account numbers, your social security number, or any other
personal information that is not absolutely needed.
• Watch what you download. Don’t ever download anything that could pos-sibly
harm your computer or invade your privacy.
• Never rush out to meet someone. If someone is trying to rush a meeting,
then be suspicious. Make sure to talk on the phone before meeting, meet in
a public place, and bring a friend.
Campus ENFORCEMENT and CAMPUS ASSISTANCE
Isothermal Community College Rutherford Campus, Polk County Center and
Rutherfordton Center are open to students and visitors on a regularly scheduled
basis Monday-Friday. Some classes and special events are scheduled on weekends.
Campus Assistance staff secure all buildings after regularly scheduled activities
have ended for the day.
The Rutherford Campus has officers on duty five days a week, and the Polk
County Center has campus assistance personnel Monday-Friday.
Campus Enforcement is staffed by the college's resource officers, Cpl. Andy
Millard and Cpl. Daniel Elliott of the Rutherford County Sherriff's Depart-ment.
These deputies are available to respond to situations involving classroom
safety and security, drug and alcohol policy violations, harassment, and other
potential criminal activity. Please contact one of them immediately in the event
of any kind of campus emergency. Campus Enforcement may be contacted at
(828) 289-5850.
Campus Assistance staff is available to help with locking and unlocking of
buildings, mail, delivery, emergency medical response, and other campus duties.
Campus A
Object Description
| Rating | |
| Title | Student handbook & events calendar |
| Other Title | Student handbook and events calendar; Student handbook |
| Creator | Isothermal Community College. |
| Subjects | Isothermal Community College--Periodicals |
| Place | North Carolina, United States |
| Description | Annual |
| Publisher | The College |
| Agency-Current | North Carolina Community College System |
| Rights | State Document see http://digital.ncdcr.gov/u?/p249901coll22,63754 |
| Physical Characteristics | v. : map ; 28 cm. |
| Collection | North Carolina State Documents Collection. State Library of North Carolina |
| Type | Text |
| Language | english |
| Format | Guidebooks |
| Digital Collection | North Carolina Digital State Documents Collection |
| Digital Format | application/pdf |
| Related Items | http://worldcat.org/oclc/19842364/viewonline |
| Audience | All |
| Pres File Name-M | pubs_serial_studenthandbooks20102011.pdf-pubsstudenthandbookisothermal20112012.pdf (total 2 files) |
| OCLC number | 19842364 |
Description
| Title | Student handbook & events calendar |
| Other Title | Student handbook and events calendar; Other title: Student handbook |
| Date | 2011; 2012 |
| Description | Annual |
| Digital Characteristics-A | 2 MB; 108 p. |
| Digital Format |
application/pdf |
| Full Text | INTRODUCTION Mission Statement................................................................................................2 Welcome Message To Students..............................................................................3 Who To See..........................................................................................................4 Accreditation........................................................................................................4 Definitions............................................................................................................5 2011-2012 ACADEMIC PLANNER Academic Planner............................................................................................7-18 ACADEMIC INFORMATION Academic Load...................................................................................................20 Student Classification.........................................................................................20 Registration/Advising Forms...............................................................................20 Senior Citizens....................................................................................................20 Tuition Refund Policy.........................................................................................20 Tuition Rates......................................................................................................21 Activity Fees/Other Costs...................................................................................21 Financial Aid Programs..................................................................................22-27 Academic Fresh Start..........................................................................................27 Academic Standing.............................................................................................28 Academic Alert...................................................................................................28 Auditing Courses................................................................................................29 Student Records..................................................................................................29 Schedule Changes...............................................................................................29 Withdrawal from College...................................................................................30 Grading System..................................................................................................31 Grade Point Average...........................................................................................31 Grade Reports.....................................................................................................32 Incomplete Policy...............................................................................................32 Graduation Exercises..........................................................................................32 Graduation Orders and Fees...............................................................................32 COLLEGE POLICIES Academic Misconduct........................................................................................34 Attendance.........................................................................................................34 Children On Campus.........................................................................................35 Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy................................35-39 Drug and Alcohol...............................................................................................39 Emergency Procedures........................................................................................39 Insurance............................................................................................................40 Nondiscrimination Statement.............................................................................40 Parking...............................................................................................................40 Signs and Announcements..................................................................................41 Student Unlawful Harassment............................................................................41 Telephone Calls..................................................................................................41 TABLE OF CONTENTS This Student Handbook is sponsored by Student Services and produced by the Campus Print Shop of Isothermal Community College. Special thanks to Benediktas Krikshtanas, Advertising and Graphic Design student, whose work is featured on the cover. 6/2011/4,000/$3,599.04@ $0.90 per copy Theft or Loss.......................................................................................................41 Tobacco Products................................................................................................42 Visitor Guidelines...............................................................................................42 Weather Emergencies..........................................................................................42 Wireless Internet Access Guidelines....................................................................43 FACILITIES and SERVICES Advising Center..................................................................................................45 Bookstore...........................................................................................................45 Computer Labs...................................................................................................46 Cosmetology.......................................................................................................46 Disability Support Services.................................................................................47 Distance Learning...............................................................................................47 Food Services......................................................................................................49 The Foundation..................................................................................................49 Learning Support and Retention.........................................................................50 Library................................................................................................................51 Polk County Center............................................................................................52 Recreation and Relaxation..................................................................................53 Small Business Center.........................................................................................53 Supplemental Instruction Services......................................................................53 Telephones..........................................................................................................54 Website...............................................................................................................54 Pre-Health Sciences Programs.............................................................................30 STUDENT ACTIVITIES Clubs and Organizations...............................................................................56-58 Campus Events...................................................................................................58 Identification Cards............................................................................................59 News Stories, Announcements, and Events.........................................................60 Publications........................................................................................................60 CRIME AWARENESS A Commitment To Safety...................................................................................62 Reporting Criminal Activity...............................................................................62 Campus Enforcement and Campus Assistance....................................................63 APPENDIXES Appendix A .......Student Rights, Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures............ 69-76 Appendix B........Student Records Policy............................................................... 77-82 Appendix C........Tuition Refund Policy and Procedures..............................................82 Appendix D.......Crime Awareness Statistical Report............................................ 83-85 Appendix E........Distance Education Questionnaire............................................. 86-88 Appendix F........Copyright Infringement............................................................. 89-90 Appendix G........Registration/Advising Form Student Worksheet...............................91 Appendix H.......Student Registration Schedule..........................................................92 Appendix I.........Drug and Alcohol Policy............................................................ 93-96 Appendix J.........Textbook Purchases - Frequently Asked Questions...........................97 Appendix K........Complaint Policies and Procedures..................................................98 Appendix L........Student Unlawful Harassment/Discrimination Policy...............99-101 Spindale Campus Map.................................................................................Back Cover introduction Mission Statement Welcome Message To Students • Administrative Offices • Academic Programs Who To See Accreditation Definitions Isothermal Community College PO Box 804 Spindale, NC 28160 (828) 286-3636 www.isothermal.edu Isothermal Community College, a member of the North Carolina Community College System, is a comprehensive, two-year, public institution that serves the individuals in Rutherford and Polk Counties. The College offers individual courses and certificate, diploma and degree programs that enable students to transfer to four-year institutions or to acquire skills for new or continued employment, as well as to function effectively as citizens in our society. In addition, the College provides training for area business and industry, personal enrichment courses, remedial and developmental courses and community service activities. Isothermal Community College provides educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, veteran status, or disability. For more information contact: Stephen Matheny, Vice President Administrative Services, Isothermal Community College, PO Box 804, Spindale, NC 28160 or call (828) 286-3636 ext. 202. Isothermal Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools 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) 679-4501. 2 Our Mission Isothermal Community College exists to improve life through learning. Our 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 Our Vision Statement To be the benchmark for excellence in learning, innovation, service, and economic development. Our 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 3 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 2011- 2012, ACADEMIC INFORMATION, COLLEGE POLICIES, FACILITIES and SERVICES, STUDENT ACTIVITIES, CRIME AWARENESS, and APPENDIXES, Student Rights, Responsibilities and Judicial Procedures (Appendix A); Student Records Policy (Appendix B); Tuition Refund Policy and Procedures (Appendix C); Crime Statistics 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). Please take a few minutes to look through your Student Handbook, and 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 that challenge. Academic Programs Administrative Offices Director of Academic Development, Debbie Puett Dean of Applied Sciences and Technology, TBD Dean of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Kathy Ackerman Dean of Business Sciences, Kim Alexander President, Dr. Myra Johnson Vice President of Academic and Student Services and Institutional Assessment, Dr. Kimberly Gold Vice President of Administrative Services, Stephen Matheny Vice President of Community and Workforce Education and Institutional Advancement, Thad Harrill Dean of Continuing Education, Donna Hood Dean of Learning Support, and Retention, Johnny Smith Director of Library Services, Charles Wiggins Director of Polk County Center, Kate Barkschat Dean of Student Services, Dr. Karen Jones Director of Information Technology, Robby Walters Director of Marketing and Community Relations, Mike Gavin 4 GO TO: Student Services Office Your Advisor/Advising Center Continuing Education Bookstore Learning, Support, and Retention Student Services Learning, Support, and Retention Your Advisor/Advising Center Departmental Secretary/ Your Advisor Learning, Support, and Retention Campus Enforcement (828) 289-5850, 9-911 if you are using campus telephone system and Switchboard (Dial "0") Financial Aid Office Student Services Office Your Advisor Bookstore Admissions Office Continuing Education Student Services Secretary or Receptionist/Switchboard Student Services Office Student Activities Coordinator Records Office Business Office Academic Development Your Advisor Who To See IF YOU NEED: Academic record Academic advising Adult Ext/Non-credit course Books to purchase Career assistance Complaints/Student Conduct Concerns Counseling Courses - registering Courses - schedule adjustments Curriculum changes Disability Services Emergency Assistance Financial aid Graduation application Graduation information Graduation orders In-state/out-of-state tuition status HRD classes Lost and found Name/address changes Organize a student activity Transcripts Tuition, fees, payments Tutoring services Withdraw from College The average rate of persistence toward degree completion of students at Isothermal Community College is available in the office of Assessment, Planning & Research. Information regarding North Carolina Community College Performance Measures for Isothermal Community College is available through the college website. LOCATED IN: Student Center The Foundation Student Center Student Center Student Center Student Center Student Center Student Center Student Center Administration Student Center Student Center Student Center Student Center The Foundation Student Center Administration Student Center Student Center Student Center Administration Administration Accreditation and Reaffirmation of Accreditation Isothermal Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), located at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097; telephone number: (404) 679-4501. As a requirement for ongoing 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 SACS principles. 5 Definitions Academic Alert Status: If your grade point average falls below the minimum satisfactory level, you will be put on academic alert. You will be provided with information on how to improve your GPA. Academic Development: A series of courses in math, reading, and English that are designed to enable students to complete their chosen curriculum by increasing options for academic success. Academic standing: This is determined by the credits earned and grades received. Accreditation: Various professional agencies appoint teams of evaluators who periodically study programs and services to ensure they meet standards of quality, and are relevant to the College's purpose. Adult Continuing Education: This program provides non-credit courses for citizens who are 18 years old or older. The opportunities are based on individual need and previous educational achievement. Advisor: A person who guides the selection of courses for your chosen field of study and is usually a faculty member. Artifact: An example of class work that demonstrates competency in a specific skill. An artifact can be a paper, test, project report, lab report, video tape, web page, etc. Assessment: A collection of information to determine if a student is achieving the desired outcomes of his/her educational experiences. Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.): A two-year technical program that prepares you for the job market. Associate of Arts (A.A.): A two-year Arts & Sciences program that concentrates on humanities and social sciences for those planning to continue in a bachelor's degree curriculum in a senior college. Associate of Science (A.S.): A two-year Arts & Sciences program that concentrates on mathematics and science for those planning to continue in a bachelor's degree curriculum in a senior college. Audit: A course for which you pay tuition and fees, but do not receive credit. Notify your instructor when you begin the class. Catalog: The official college publication available from the Admissions Office that contains almost everything you need to know about Isothermal Community College's academic programs. Census Date: The date on which a course has met ten percent of the required class time for the semester. Failure to participate in a course, whether it is traditional or online, before this date may result in you being dropped from the course without a refund. Certificate Program: A curriculum generally requiring one year or less of course work. Contact or lab hours: The actual number of hours in class or lab per week, per course. Counselor: A person who provides you with personal, academic, vocational, or career counseling. Credit hours: Every class is worth a value called a credit hour. Every degree, diploma, or certificate program requires you to take a certain number of credit hours. Curriculum: The program of courses required to receive a degree, diploma, or certificate in your chosen area of study. Criteria: Pre-determined guidelines that identify requirements for demonstrating competence in a designated skill. Diploma programs: With the exception of the General Education Core Diplomas in the A.A. and A.S. programs, these are vocational curricula usually taking three semesters to complete. Courses are not designed to transfer to a four-year school. Adult High School is a program that allows adults to complete high school courses and credits for an Adult High School diploma. GED is a series of tests that correspond to most high school curricula. People who have not completed high school may choose to take these tests. Discipline: A specific field of study, such as English, biology, math, economics, electronics, etc. Distance Learning: Courses which involve the mastering of academic knowledge in ways other than face-to-face interactions between students and instructors. See definitions in the "Facilities & Services" section of this handbook. Drop/Add: This term refers to adjusting your schedule by dropping and/or adding courses. The Drop/Add period is limited and is indicated on the calendar. Electives: A course which is not specifically named in your curriculum but is required for graduation. Check with your academic advisor before choosing an elective. Financial aid: Monies available to eligible students in the form of grants, scholarships, and work study funding. The monies come through federal and state government or private donations. Full-time student: A student who is taking at least 12 credit hours. A student who is registered for 11 credit hours or fewer in one semester is a part-time student. Grade point average (GPA): The average of your grades for all classes taken at Isothermal. It is calculated by adding all earned quality points and dividing by the number of credit hours taken. Independent study: A credit course, allowed only in special circumstances, in which you work individually with a faculty member. Placement tests: Standardized tests in math, reading, and English, which are used to place students in appropriate courses in these academic disciplines. Plagiarism: Using ideas or words of another as your own instead of crediting the source. Plagiarism is a violation of academic integrity. Portfolio: A method of presenting data for academic assessment. A portfolio contains artifacts arranged and organized by a student to demonstrate skills designated by the college that are important to success. Practicum: A course that offers hands-on experience in the workplace. Prerequisites: Preliminary skills, knowledge or courses which are required before enrollment in a particular course. Prerequisites are listed in the course description section of the catalog. Rubric: A term used for a rating sheet based on pre-determined criteria for success at demonstrating a designated skill. Special credit student: A student who is taking one or more curriculum credit courses, but who is not enrolled in a specific curriculum. Student activity fee: The fee you pay that supports club activities, school-wide events, and your student handbook! Student Government Association (S.G.A.): The student organization that promotes the interests of students through a variety of events and sponsorships. All students who pay an activity fee are members of SGA. Syllabus: A document provided by instructors in every course. It contains information about course requirements, attendance, textbooks, grading, and learning outcomes. Transcript: A printed record of every course you've taken at Isothermal and the grades you've received. Transcripts may be obtained from the Student Services Office. To help you with words used by Isothermal Community College faculty and staff, here is a list of frequently used terms and their definitions. 2011-2012 ACADEMIC PLAN ER 7 AUGUST 2011 September 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 Monday • Student/Faculty Break 2 Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break 3 Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break 4 Thursday • Student/Faculty Break 5 Friday • Student/Faculty Break 6 Saturday 7 Sunday 8 Monday • Student/Faculty Break 9 Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break 10 Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break 11 Thursday • Student/Faculty Break 12 Friday • Student/Faculty Break 13 Saturday 14 Sunday 15 Monday • Student Break • Convocation - Faculty/Staff 16 Tuesday • Professional Development - Faculty/Staff 17 Wednesday • Last Chance Registration for Fall Semester 18 Thursday • Last Chance Registration for Fall Semester 19 Friday • First Day of Classes • Schedule Adjustments 20 Saturday 21 Sunday 22 Monday • Schedule Adjustments 23 Tuesday 24 Wednesday 25 Thursday 26 Friday 27 Saturday 28 Sunday 29 Monday 30 Tuesday • Last day to drop with a 75% refund 31 Wednesday 8 SEPTEMBER 2011 October 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 Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday • Labor Day Holiday - College Closed Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday • Patriot Day Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday • Constitution Day Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday 9 OCTOBER 2011 November 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 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 Wednesday Thursday Friday • Student/Faculty Fall Break (see inclement weather policy) Saturday Sunday Monday • Columbus Day Tuesday Wednesday Thursday • Grub Day Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday • Academic Advising Day (Current Students)-No Classes Wednesday Thursday Friday • Last day to apply for Fall 2011 Graduation Saturday Sunday Monday • Early Registration Tuesday • Early Registration Wednesday • Early Registration Thursday • Early Registration Friday • Early Registration Saturday Sunday Monday • Halloween 10 NOVEMBER 2011 December 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 Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday • Election Day Wednesday Thursday Friday • Veterans Day Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday • Last Day to Drop with a "W" Friday T Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed Thursday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed Friday • Thanksgiving Holiday - College Closed Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday 11 DECEMBER 2011 January 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 Thursday • Learning College Student of the Semester Awards Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday uesday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday • Last Day of Classes Saturday Sunday Monday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • 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 • New Year's Eve 12 JANUARY 2012 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 Sunday • New Year's 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 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 Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday February 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 13 FEBRUARY 2012 March 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 Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday uesday Tuesday Wednesday • Professional Development Day - Faculty/Staff • No classes for Students Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday • Valentine's Day Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday • President's Day Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday 14 MARCH 2012 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 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 Thursday Friday • Last day to apply for Spring 2012 Graduation Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday • St. Patrick's Day Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday • Academic Advising Day for Current Students • No Classes Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 15 APRIL 2012 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 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Sunday Monday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012 Tuesday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012 Wednesday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012Tue Thursday • Early Registration for Summer and Fall 2012 Friday • Spring Holiday - College Closed Saturday Sunday Monday • Spring Holiday - College Closed Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy) Wednesday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy) Thursday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy) Friday • Student/Faculty Break - No Classes (see inclement weather policy) Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday • Last Day to Drop with a "W" • Learning College Student of the Semester Awards Friday • Office Professional Conference for Staff Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday • Sport's Day Wednesday Thursday Friday • Award's Day Saturday Sunday Monday 16 MAY 2012 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 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Tuesday Wednesday ue Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday • Last Day of Classes Thursday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes Friday • Student/Faculty Break • REaCH Graduation Saturday Sunday • Mother's Day Monday • Curriculum Graduation Tuesday • Adult High School and GED Graduation • Last Chance Registration for Summer/Fall Wednesday • First Day of Classes • Schedule Adjustments Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday • Last Day to Drop with a 75% refund Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday • Memorial Day Holiday - College Closed Tuesday Wednesday Thursday 17 JUNE 2012 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 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 Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday • Last Day to apply for Summer 2012 Graduation Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday • Father's Day Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 18 JULY 2012 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 Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday • Independence Day Holiday - College Closed Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday • Open Registration for Fall 2012 Tuesday • Open Registration for Fall 2012 Wednesday • Open Registration for Fall 2012 Thursday • Open Registration for Fall 2012 • Last Day to Drop with a "W" Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday • Last Day of Classes Thursday • Faculty End of Term - Check-out 11:00 a.m. • No Classes Friday • Student/Faculty Break Saturday Sunday Monday • Student/Faculty Break Tuesday • Student/Faculty Break Academ ic Informa tion Academic Load Student Classification Registration/Advising Forms Senior Citizens Tuition Refund Policy Tuition Rates Activity and Other Fees Other Costs Physical Education Fees Financial Aid Programs Academic Fresh Start Academic Standing Academic Alert • Potential Consequences Related To Ongoing Academic Alert • Health Sciences • Academic Standing Appeal Auditing Courses Student Records Schedule Adjustments Withdrawal From The College • Administrative Withdrawal Grading System Grade Point Average Grade Reports Grade Appeals Incomplete Policy Graduation Exercises Graduation Orders and Fees 20 Academic Load Arts and Sciences - 21 credit hours (maximum hours) Applied Sciences and Technology - 21 credit hours (maximum hours) Business Sciences - 21 credit hours (maximum hours) Approval from the appropriate dean is required to register for more than the maximum hours. Student Classification Freshmen have earned less than 30 credit hours Sophomores have earned 30 credit hours or more Full-Time enrolled for 12 or more credit hours Part-Time enrolled for less than 12 credit hours Registration/Advising Forms Refer to Appendixes G and H for samples Registration/Advising Forms Appendix G - Registration/Advising Form Student Worksheet Appendix H - Student Registration Schedule SENIOR CITIZENS Senior citizens age 65 years and older as of the first day of class, who are North Carolina residents, may enroll in up to six credit hours of curriculum classes free of tuition charge on a space available basis for Fall and Spring terms only. Tuition Refund Policy A copy of the Tuition Refund Policy is available in the Student Services Office, Student Center-see Appendix C. Academic Information 21 Tuition Rates In-State Rates 1 hour $ 56.50 2 113.00 3 169.50 4 226.00 5 282.50 6 339.00 7 395.50 8 452.00 9 508.50 10 565.00 11 621.50 12 678.00 13 734.50 14 791.00 15 847.50 16 904.00 1 hour $ 248.50 2 497.00 3 745.50 4 994.00 5 1,242.50 6 1,491.00 7 1,739.50 8 1,988.00 9 2,236.50 10 2,485.00 11 2,733.50 12 2,982.00 13 3,230.50 14 3,479.00 15 3,727.50 16 3,976.00 Out-of-State Rates Activity Fee* Fall and Spring Semesters 1 hour $2.00 2 hours $4.00 3 hours $6.00 4 hours $8.00 5 hours $10.00 6 hours $12.00 7 hours $14.00 8 hours $16.00 9 hours $19.00 or more *No Fee for Summer Semester Academic related Fees* Backpacking Fee (PED 174) $25.00 ALL students pay the student activity fee with the exception of Huskins, Concurrent Enrollment, and senior citizen students. Other Costs* Books $1,000.00 (full-time student for one semester, approximate cost) Graduation $50.00 (approximate cost) *Fees are subject to change. Other Fees* LPN Testing Fees First Semester $134.33 Second Semester $134.33 Third Semester $164.50 ADN Tutorial/Testing $418.00 ADN ATI Testing Fee $353.00 Returned Check Fee $10.00 (Charged first semester of entry into ADN ATI program) *LPN/ADN Fees are non-refundable if student drops. * Tuition rates are set forth by the NC General Assembly and are the same at all community colleges in the state. The rates are subject to change effective July 1, 2011. Academic Information 22 Financial Aid If you need help paying for your college education at Isothermal Community College, financial assistance may be available. For further information on how to apply for the various forms of assistance go to the Financial Aid Office in the Student Center. Contact the Financial Aid office at (828) 286-3636 Ext 491. fINANCIAL aID dEADLINES In order for aid to be available for use for a particular semester, the student's financial aid file and admissions file must be complete by a specific date. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure their file is complete. Students must complete the steps outlined below in order to secure financial aid at the time of registration. 1. Apply for admission, submit all high school and college transcripts or GED scores, and complete the placement test, if needed. 2. Complete and submit the FAFSA at least two weeks prior to the deadline. Applications are available online at fafsa.gov. 3. Complete and return all requested forms sent from Isothermal to the Financial Aid Office by 4:30 pm on the deadline date. Financial aid will be processed after the semester begins for students completing files after the deadline date. These students will be responsible for payment of tuition. Qualifying students may receive reimbursement at a later date. Deadline Dates: Fall 2011: Thursday, July 7, 2011 Spring 2012: Friday, November 18, 2011 Summer 2012: Friday, March 30, 2012 Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards for Financial Aid Recipients Federal regulations require students receiving federal student aid to maintain satisfactory academic progress as defined by the institution. Federal student aid includes the Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work Study, and Federal Direct Student Loans. The North Caro-lina Student Incentive Grant, the North Carolina Community College Grant, and the North Carolina Educational Lottery Scholarship also observe these same standards. The institution’s Satisfactory Academic Progress policy must include both qualitative (cumulative grade point average) and quantitative (hours earned compared to hours attempted, as well as a maximum time frame) elements. Academic Information 23 Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) Students receiving financial aid at Isothermal Community College must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher. These standards are consistent with academic standards required for graduation. GPA requirements will be monitored at the end of each semester. Any student earning less than the minimum required cumulative GPA shall be placed on financial aid warning. The student will be notified of his/ her status in writing and may receive financial aid for one more semester of enrollment, consecutive or otherwise. If the student does not earn the minimum required cumulative grade point average by the end of the warning semester, he/she will be placed on financial aid suspension. The student is not eligible for aid while on suspension. *Credit hours attempted will be cumulative and will include all hours for which the student was enrolled as of the census date of each academic term for which the student received a grade of A, B, C, D, F, I, W, or R. **Cumulative GPA is computed by dividing the total number of quality points earned by the total credit hours attempted for which the student received grades of A, B, C, D, F, or I. No quality points are earned for a grade of I, and for financial aid purposes it is treated as a failing grade until proven otherwise. Maximum Time Frame Any student receiving federal financial aid will have a maximum time frame in which he/she is expected to complete a program of study. Federal regulations require that the time frame be no more than 150% of the established length of the current program. At Isothermal Community College, the 150% time frame will be measured in terms of credit hours attempted.* For example: If a program requires 65 semester credit hours to complete, then a student may receive financial aid for up to 97.5 (65 x 150%) semester hours attempted. Once the student has attempted 150% of the credit hours allowed in his/ her program, he/she is no longer eligible for financial aid at Isothermal Community College. Should the student complete a diploma or associate degree program after losing eligibility, they should contact the Financial Aid Office for a re-evaluation of their status. Academic Information 24 *For this quantitative measure, credit hours attempted will be cumulative and will include all hours for which the student was enrolled on the census date of each academic term and received a grade of A, B, C, D, F, I, W, or R. All classes will be counted regardless of whether the class is part of the student’s current major or whether the student received financial aid for the class. Progression Rate A student must successfully complete a minimum of 67% of cumulative credit hours attempted. Progress in this area will be evaluated at the end of each term. Any student falling below the 67% requirement shall be placed on financial aid warning and will be notified of that status in writing. Students on warning may receive financial aid for one more semester of enrollment, consecutive or otherwise. If the student does not bring the completion rate up to the required 67% by the end of the warning semester, financial aid suspension will occur and all financial aid will be terminated. The student will not be eligible for aid while on suspension. Both the qualitative and quantitative standards are cumulative and include all periods of enrollment at Isothermal Community College, even those for which the student did not receive financial aid funds. The Academic Fresh Start, discussed later in the catalog, will not improve a student’s standings as far as financial aid satisfactory academic progress is concerned. Effects of Academic Development Coursework Students who have been accepted into a degree program and are required to take Academic Development coursework, as determined by placement testing, may receive financial aid until they have attempted a total of 30 semester hours. All semester hours attempted will be counted towards the 30 hour maximum limit, regardless of the grade received. Academic Development classes dropped prior to the beginning of a term will not be counted towards the maximum limit. Effects of Previous Credits 1. Transfer Students – Any student transferring from a school other than Isothermal Community College will be considered to be making satisfactory progress at the time of his/her enrollment. The student’s maximum time frame will be reduced by the equivalent number of credit hours attempted toward his/her degree. Academic Information 25 2. Isothermal Community College Returning Students – Returning students will have their cumulative GPA carried forward, subject to the institutional policy regarding transfer of credit within the institution. All credit hours attempted will be converted to semester hours and carried forward. This policy is in accordance with federal regulations stating that satisfactory academic progress standards must cover all periods of the student’s enrollment, including those periods for which the student did not receive federal student aid funds. 3. Isothermal Graduates – If a student graduates from a program at Isothermal Community College and desires to pursue another degree, that student will assume the maximum time frame of the new program. Procedure for Reinstatement of Financial Aid Students who have had aid terminated may reestablish eligibility for financial aid in one of two ways: (1) By enrolling for subsequent semester(s) at his/ her own expense until satisfactory academic progress is achieved, or (2) By the appeals process, if approved. Retroactive payments of financial aid for periods in which a student did not meet satisfactory progress standards are prohibited. How to Appeal Financial Aid Suspension To appeal financial aid suspension, a student must be able to demonstrate mitigating circumstances. Mitigating circumstances are defined as injury or illness of the student, death of a relative, change in employment situations, or undue hardship caused by special circumstances. The procedure for appeal is as follows: 1. A student will indicate in writing to the Financial Aid Director the reason(s) why he/she did not make satisfactory academic progress and why financial aid should not be terminated. Documentation to support the appeal is encouraged. 2. The Financial Aid Director will review the appeal and determine whether or not termination of aid is justified. The student will be advised of the decision in writing. 3. Students with approved appeals will be placed in a probationary status and will be required to follow an Academic Plan provided by the Financial Aid Office. Students meeting the requirements of the Academic Plan at the end of each semester will automatically have their probationary status continued, if an eligible status has not been attained. Students not meeting the requirements of the Academic Plan will be placed on financial aid suspension and will not be eligible for another appeal until they have completed a minimum of six credit hours at their own expense and made improvement to their standing. Academic Information 26 Return oF Title IV Funds Procedure Federal financial aid is awarded to a student under the assumption that the student will attend college for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. For example, if the student is given aid for the fall semester, it is assumed the student will attend college from the beginning of the fall se-mester through the end of the fall semester. Federal financial aid regulations specify how Isothermal Community College must determine the amount of Federal Student Aid (FSA) assistance a student has earned if they withdraw from school. The FSA programs that are covered by this law are: Federal Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG). When a student withdraws from all classes during a semester, the amount of FSA program assistance the student has earned up to that point is de-termined by a specific formula known as Return to Title IV. If the student received more assistance than the student earned, the excess funds must be returned by the college and/or the student. If the student received less assistance than the amount the student earned, the student may be able to receive those additional funds. For example, if the student completed 30 percent of the semester, the student earned 30 percent of the assistance they were originally scheduled to receive. Once the student has completed more than 60 percent of the semester, they are considered to have earned all the assistance they were scheduled to receive. If the student receives excess FSA program funds that must be returned, the school must return a portion of the excess equal to the lesser of 1. your institutional charges multiplied by the unearned percentage of your funds or 2. the entire amount of excess funds. The college must return this amount even if it didn’t keep this amount of your FSA program funds. If the college is not required to return all of the excess funds, the student must return the remaining amount. Any amount of unearned grant funds that must be returned is called an overpayment. The amount of a grant overpayment that the student must repay is half of the unearned amount. The student must make arrangements with the school or the Department of Education to return the unearned grant funds. Academic Information 27 POST-withdrawal disbursements If the student did not receive all of the funds they earned, they may be due a post-withdrawal disbursement. The college may automatically use all or a portion of the student’s post-withdrawal disbursement for tuition, fees, and room and board charges. For all other college charges, the college needs the student’s permission to use the post-withdrawal disbursement. If the student does not give permission, which some colleges ask for upon enrollment, the student will be offered the funds. However, it may be in the student’s best interest to allow the school to keep the funds to reduce their debt at the school. The requirements for FSA program funds when a student withdraws are separate from any refund policy the college may have. Therefore, the student may still owe funds to the college to cover unpaid institutional charges. The college may also charge the student for any FSA program funds that the college was required to return. If the student does not know what the college’s refund policy is, they may ask for a copy. The college can also provide you with the requirements and procedures for officially withdrawing from college. 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) academic 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 Information 28 Academic Standing Procedures regarding academic standing, suspension, and length of suspension are approved by the President. 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. (See College Catalog under "Repeating Courses.") 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. 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. Students may be referred to the Dean of Student Services 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 Student Services and/or the Committee on Admissions, Academic Continuation, and Records prior to re-entering. (Board approved policy: Academic standing) Health sciences Information regarding academic progression in health sciences programs may be obtained in the academic departments. 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 Information 29 Auditing Courses If you wish to audit (take a class without credit), you must register through the regular procedure. Audits will be charged the same fee as taking classes for credit. Notify your instructor when you begin the class. AN AUDIT CANNOT 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. Student Records Isothermal Community College, in the execution of its responsibilities to students, must maintain accurate and confidential student records. The Student Services Office has the responsibility for maintaining 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. SCHEDULE CHANGES Drop/Add In order to officially drop or add a course, these steps should be followed: 1. Secure a Schedule Change form from the Department or Secretary. 2. Have a Drop/Add approved by faculty advisor and instructor. Students who wish to change their class schedule during Schedule Adjustment Days are advised to drop and add courses during the same registration session to avoid being charged 25% of the tuition for the dropped class. 3. Submit the Drop/Add form to Student Services to be officially recorded. NOTE: Students will not be allowed to add or change sections after the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar and Semester Schedule book. In addition, students will not be allowed to enter a class 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 college calendar. The Vice President for Academic and Student Services may approve a drop after the deadline. Academic Information 30 Withdrawal From College All official withdrawals must: 1. Be made through the advisor one week before the last day of classes for the term. 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.” NOTE: Students will not be allowed to add or change sections after the deadline listed in the Academic Calendar and Semester Schedule book. 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 college calendar. The Vice President for Academic and Student Services may approve a drop after the deadline. Administrative Withdrawal An instructor, in consultation with the appropriate instructional administrator, 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 college 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, the appropriate Dean and completion of a re-admission form. If a student is administratively withdrawn from more than one class in a semester, re-admission to class will be considered on a class-by-class basis. Re-admission forms may be obtained in the Student Services office. If you leave school without officially withdrawing, you may receive the grade of “F” in all courses. Academic Information 31 Grading System Instructors are responsible for establishing their own grading policy in accordance with the college's letter grade system with qualitative descriptions. Grade Point Average (GPA) To compute your cumulative average: multiply the 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. 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. Example: 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 Y No-credit-Audit 0 S Satisfactory WP Withdrawn Progress NS No Show CE Credit By Exam CR Transfer Credit R Repeat DE Diagnostic Exam * Developmental Credit % Granted an Academic Fresh Start # Administrative Withdrawal (per credit hour) Academic Information 32 Requirements Requirements for graduation will vary according to the curriculum. You should refer to the program description in the college catalog to determine course requirements for graduation. The college catalog on record for graduation evaluation will be the current catalog. Be sure to check with your advisor early if you have questions regarding program requirements. A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is required in all programs. Some programs require at least a grade of “C” or better in all required courses. In the case of students transferring into Isothermal Community College, at least half of the credits required for graduation must be earned at Isothermal Community College. Graduation Orders and Fees All orders for diplomas, caps and gowns, graduation invitations, and class rings will be coordinated by the Records Office and placed through the bookstore. You will be notified by mail regarding graduation orders. Grade Reports Your final grade report will be mailed to you at the completion of each semester. 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. Incomplete Policy A grade of “I” may be assigned if your course work is incomplete. The time line for completion is established by the instructor. Prerequisite courses must be completed before you can progress. The courses must be completed before the end of the following semester or the grade automatically becomes an “F” in your permanent record. Graduation Exercises 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. Academic Information CO LLEGE POLICI ES Academic Misconduct Attendance • School Absence for Religious Reasons Children on Campus Complaint Policy Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy Drug and Alcohol Emergency Procedures • First Aid • Fire • Bomb Threat • Lock Down Insurance Nondiscrimination Statement Parking • Interim Motor Vehicle Policy Sexual Harassment Signs and Announcements Student Unlawful Harassment/ Discrimination Policy Telephone Calls Theft and Loss Tobacco Products Weather Emergencies • Inclement Weather Policy • Tornado Wireless Internet Access Guidelines 34 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. Attendance Regular class attendance is a student obligation. The student is also responsible for all work, including tests and written assignments, and for all class meetings. No right or privilege exists that permits a student to be absent from any given number of class meetings. Instructors establish their own class attendance policy. This attendance policy is explained in detail at the first class meeting and includes the relationship of absences to grades. Students who stop going to class without officially withdrawing may receive a grade of “F” at the end of the semester. SCHOOL ABSENCE FOR RELIGIOUS REASONS Isothermal Community College recognizes the right to students to be absent from class for religious reasons. Students may request a maximum of two excused class days per academic year for observances required by their faith. In accordance with this right, the president will establish procedures for requesting, documenting and excusing religious absences. For the purposes of this policy, an academic year begins on the first day of fall classes in August and ends on the last day of summer semester in July each year. If any portion of a class day is missed, that day will be counted as one class day absence. An absence in an online course will be counted as a day if the course specifies participation on a particular day or during a specific time frame. A day of religious observance is defined as an observance that is part of a sincerely-held religious belief. Students requesting absence from class for religious observance must complete a request form and obtain approval at least two weeks prior to the day of the absence. Completed forms should be submitted to the records office in the student center for approval and the student should then notify the instructor of each class missed. Students who miss class for religious observance will be granted the opportunity to make up work, complete alternate assignments or use the absence as a dropped grade as determined by the instructor. For more information on college policies see the College Policies and Procedures Manual, which may be found in the Rutherford Campus Library. For Student Rights, Responsibilities, and Judicial Procedures, see Appendix A. College Policies 35 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. 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 procedures for responding to these complaints. For complete information, see Appendix K. Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy Policy No: II:08:00 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 College’s research, educational and administrative purposes. 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 access and proper management of these resources. Acceptable and Unacceptable Uses The College abides by the guidelines and policies of the NC Information Resource Management Commission (IRMC). The computer resources owned and operated by the 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 College’s computer resources. 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 individual’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 another individual’s work; 5. Using hardware or software sniffers to examine network traffic, except by appropriate College personnel, to diagnose the network for bottlenecks or other problems; College Policies 36 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, or attempting to defeat or circumvent any security measures or controls; 8. Consuming food and/or beverages in computer labs, computer class-rooms, library or in any other areas restricted to protect systems; 9. Wastefully using finite resources such as large amounts of bandwidth including but not limited to, downloading music, television shows, soft-ware 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 cir-cumstances, but the College cannot guarantee functionality and assumes no responsibility for configuration of or damage to non college equip-ment; 11. Using chat rooms, instant messaging, or social networking websites other than in support of the research, educational and administrative purposes of the College; 12. Sending hate mail, chain letters and anonymous or pseudonymous mes-sages; 13. 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; 14. Using computer resources for political campaigns or distribution of po-litical material; 15. Using computer resources for fraud, financial gain or for any commercial or illegal activity; 16. Disclosing student information in violation of the provisions of the Fam-ily Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974; and 17. Violating copyright laws and/or fair use provisions through: 1) illegal peer-to-peer file trafficking by downloading or uploading pirated or il-legal material including, but not limited to, software and music files; and 2) reproducing or disseminating Internet materials, except as permitted by law or by written agreement with the owner of the copyright. Reservation of Rights and Limits of Liability 1. The College reserves all rights in the use and operation 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. College Policies 37 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 information 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 re-sources. 6. The College makes efforts to maintain computer resources in good work-ing 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 actions of anyone using the Internet through the College’s network or College’s computers. 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 and 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 certain College personnel based on job responsibilities, as determined by the employee’s appropriate Vice President, and to all students who are enrolled in a curriculum program. The use of College-provided e-mail accounts must be related 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 or otherwise violate the provisions within this policy. Any student under the age of 18, including REaCH and concurrently enrolled students, must have a parent or legal guardian sign the Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use form and the Student E-mail Application form giving permission for that student to have e-mail access. The forms must be returned to the appropriate instructor during the first week of classes for continued e-mail access. 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 College Policies 38 electronic communication, the College cannot assure the privacy of an indi-vidual’s use of the College’s electronic mail resources or the confidentiality of particular messages that may be created, transmitted, received or stored. The College does not monitor electronic mail routinely but may do so to the extent permitted by law as the College deems necessary. Students and employees should not have any expectation of privacy with their 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 appropriate 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, the following: A. In the course of an investigation triggered by indications of misconduct or misuse; B. As needed to protect health and safety of students, employees or the community at large; C. As needed to prevent interference with the academic mission of the College; D. As needed to locate substantive information required for College busi-ness that is not more readily available; E. As needed to respond to legal actions; and F. As needed to fulfill the College’s obligations to third parties. Electronic mail, including that of students, may constitute "educational records" as defined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99). Electronic mail that meets the definition of educational records is subject to the provisions of FERPA. The College may access, inspect and disclose such records under conditions set forth in FERPA. (See the College Student Handbook for selected guidelines, procedures and definitions regarding FERPA.) 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. Violations Each individual is ultimately responsible for his/her own actions. Failure to exercise responsible, ethical behavior will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Students may be sanctioned according to procedures described in the Student Handbook and other users may be barred permanently from using College computers and network access. College Policies 39 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. Drug and Alcohol The possession and/or use of any non-prescribed controlled substance as defined in Chapter 90 of the General Statues of North Carolina and federal laws is not permitted on the campus of Isothermal Community College. The consumption of alcohol or the possession of an open container which contains alcoholic beverages is prohibited on the campus 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 State ABC Codes and of non exclusive 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 and the College Drug and Alcohol Policy for further information. Emergency Procedures When an emergency occurs, such as accidents resulting in serious injury or sudden illness, which requires emergency medical attention, students should call 911 or on their cell phone or dial 9 for an outside line and 911 from a campus phone. Then notify Campus Enforcement at (828) 289-5850. Describe the nature of the emergency and indicate the location of the emergency. First Aid For minor medical needs, first aid supplies are available in each building, the Physical Education Office, and the shop classrooms. The college has no facilities for medical treatment other than for minor first aid and can assume no responsibility for treatment of injuries or illness of students. Fire In case of fire, sound the alarm, using the nearest red fire box and leave the building quickly but in an orderly way. Use the exit route posted in the hallway in each building. Call 911 on a personal cell phone or on campus dial 9 for an outside line and 911, then notify Campus Enforcement at (828) 289-5850. NOTE: Sounding the alarm when there is no fire is against the state law of North Carolina. College Policies 40 Bomb Threat Report bomb threats of any description to the Vice President of Administrative Services, the College President or the Vice President of Academic and Student Services and Institutional Assessment. lock down If you are informed of a lock down situation, please cooperate with proper authorities. Leaving the classroom or the building in such a situation may put you at greater risk. 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. Nondiscrimination Statement Isothermal Community College is dedicated to equality of opportunity for its staff, students, and community. Isothermal Community College does not discriminate against students, employees, or applicants on the grounds of race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, veteran status, 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 Services 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 he or she has 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) 286-3636 ext. 202 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. College Policies 41 Interim Motor Vehicle Policy 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. Signs and 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 permission 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 defamation, obscen-ity, 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. 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. Accord-ingly, forms of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and other violations of civil rights are prohibited. See Appendix L for policy details. 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 Student Services 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. College Policies 42 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 Tobacco Products The use of tobacco products of any kind inside the buildings of Isothermal Com-munity College campuses is prohibited. Smoking is prohibited within twenty-five( 25) feet of all building entrances on the campuses of Isothermal Community College. (Policy No.:III:01:13) 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. Weather Emergencies The college website www.isothermal.edu usually will 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. 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! 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. Tornado In case of a tornado warning, you will be instructed to take cover in the designated areas of each building. Most tornado-related deaths are caused by head injuries from flying debris, so if you are outside during threatening weather, seek shelter immediately in the nearest building. 43 Wireless internet Access Guidelines Access • Free wireless Internet access is provided at Isothermal Community College. The college’s wireless network is open to all visitors and does not require a special password. • Wireless service is available to users at this institution during normal operating hours, but the college does NOT guarantee connection to the Internet. • In accessing the college’s wireless Internet service, all users agree to abide by the terms of the Isothermal Community College Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use policy. (See "College Policies") • To protect its network and users, Isothermal Community College reserves the right to terminate a connection at any time or to withdraw wireless access entirely. Note: College staff cannot accept liability for personal equipment that is brought to the college and therefore cannot assist with configuration, installation, trouble shooting, or support of wireless devices, including but not limited to laptops and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Rules of the Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy apply. In addition: • Users are not permitted to tamper with any equipment belonging to the Col-lege (e.g. disconnecting equipment in order to use outlets or network cables). • Laptop computer users are expected to be considerate of those nearby and are expected to use headphones when playing sound files. • Users wishing filtered access should purchase and install filtering software for their personal laptop; the College does not filter wireless access. • While using the wireless network, users may not damage or disrupt service on the college's computer networks or utilize any means to intercept other users’ data. • The College does not provide the ability to print from the wireless network. Files must be saved to a laptop or storage device, such as a flash drive, and printed at a later time. College Policies Facilities and Services Advising Center Bookstore Learning Support and Retention • Career Services/Counseling • Testing Services Computer Labs Cosmetology Disability Support Services Distance Learning Food Services The Performing Arts and Conference Center at the Foundation Library Polk County Center Recreation and Relaxation Small Business Center Supplemental Instruction Services Telephones 45 Bookstore The campus bookstore is located in the Student Center, but has its own exterior entry next to the main entrance on the amphitheater side of the building. In addition to books and classroom supplies, the bookstore carries a large supply of notebooks, apparel with the Isothermal logo, book bags, backpacks, and other specialty items. Bookstore profits are used for college projects and services. Graduation orders are placeD in the bookstore. Bookstore Hours: 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.–8:30 p.m. Friday 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Summer Semester Monday - Thursday, 9:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 1st week of semester Monday - Thursday 8:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Refund/Exchange Policy A full refund and/or exchange will be given on new textbooks under the following conditions: 1. You present your cash register receipt. 2. Refund and/or exchange is made within two weeks of the purchase date. 3. All checks must allow ten days to clear before refund is allowed. 4. The book is in new condition, no marks, no names, and no folded pages. 5. Defective books will be replaced free of charge if returned by the end of semester. 6. Special order books, paperback novels, school supplies, and study charts are not eligible for refunds. 7. Even exchanges are allowed on new books with receipt within two weeks of the pur-chase date. 8. Refunds will be mailed when necessary. ADvising Center The Advising Center supports Isothermal's overall mission to improve life through learning by providing students with correct information that helps lead them towards their destinations. Through collaborative efforts, the Advising Center is staffed by professional and caring faculty and staff from across campus who serve as advisors. The Advising Center is located in the Student Center Building near the pool. Please call 828-286-3636 ext. 313 for hours of operation. Facilities and Services 46 Computer Labs Lifelong Learning Center Computers are available for student use on a space available basis for word processing and Internet access. Access to the lab will be limited to times it is not in use for scheduled classes. Acceptable use policies are posted. Failure to exercise good judgement in using these resources may result in severe disciplinary action. If you have questions about appropriate use, be sure to ask an instructor or lab supervisor. For additional computer resources, see “Library” page 50. Computer Lab Hours: Day and Evening Hours may vary. Please check the hours posted on the door or call the Lab at ext. 372 Business Sciences The Computer Center located in room 130 of the Business Sciences building is open to all curriculum students. The computers have Microsoft Office 2010 installed as well as some specialized software for certain classes. Access to the Internet is also available. Center hours do vary by semester and are posted beside the door. Students must sign the Isothermal Community College Computer Resources, Internet, and Network Use Policy each semester. For information call 828-286-3636 ext. 230. Drop in during the following hours: Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m. Tuesday - Thursday 4:30 p.m.–8:00 p.m. Fridays 8:15 a.m.–10:30 a.m. or call (828) 286-2319 or (828) 286-3636 ext. 249 Cosmetology The Cosmetology Department in the Student Center offers a variety of services from hair cutting, styling and braiding, to manicures and facials, at very reasonable prices. Isothermal Community College students receive a discount with a valid student ID card. For chemical services, clients should arrive at 9:00 a.m. for day class and between 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. for evening class. Facilities and Services 47 Disability Support 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 Coordinator. 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 Coordinator, in the Student Center at (828) 286-3636 ext. 422. Distance Learning Taking some or all of your classes online or in a hybrid format 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 your children while pursuing your degree at Isothermal Community College. Online classes give you access to curriculum 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week, but they are not suitable for all students or situations. If you are considering taking an online class for academic credit, Appendix E in this handbook will help you to further evaluate your suitability for Distance Learning classes. Please consult your advisor or the instructor of the online course for assistance with this decision. Listed on the next page are definitions of Distance Learning and traditional class formats to help you decide which one best fits your needs and learning style. Facilities and Services 48 Section Number Assignments 9 In order to facilitate the registration process, please be sure you meet all the requirements to be an online student at Isothermal. A list of these requirements can be found online at www.isothermal.edu/dltech.htm Students taking online courses should also be aware of the special procedures involved in beginning an online course. Step-by-step instructions are available online at www.isothermal.edu/onlcourse.htm. Once you have registered for an online course and have paid your tuition, you must email your instructor on the first class day of the semester. Your instructor will then make the course materials available to you. Failure to contact your instructor and to begin participating in the course on the first day of the term may result in you being dropped from the course without a refund. Many traditional classes at Isothermal require computer skills, internet access and email addresses for research and stu-dent/ faculty communication. Isothermal has computers with internet access located in the Library, Lifelong Learning Cen-ter, and Business sciences building that are for student use. Section Number Assignments effective 2011Su Section assignments consist of two components- a 3 digit number and a 2 character method of instruction code or in house special coding. 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 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. Traditional TR College credit or continuing education course where the instructor and students meet face-to-face, according to designated dates/times/location and where there is no Internet or other method of delivery requirement. Self Paced SP Self Paced Developmental courses only Internet or Online IN College credit or continuing education course where 100%of the instruction is delivered through the Internet. Hybrid HY College credit or continuing education course where the primary 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. Web-supported or Web-assisted WB College credit or continuing education course where the primary delivery is via traditional face-to-face method with a requirement that students have Internet access as a supplemental part of the course. 50%or less of the instruction is delivered through the Internet. Information Highway/ Two-way Video IH College credit or continuing education 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. Independent Study IS Self-paced course in which a student progresses through the instructional materials at their own pace, regardless of method of delivery. 10/04/10 Facilities and Services 49 Sign-on Procedure for MOODLE Student user accounts are created on the first day of classes each semester. If you are registered for classes this semester, and today is the first day of classes or after the first day of classes, use the following username and pass-word formats (lowercase letters only, NO uppercase please): Proper username format is as follows: • first letter of your first name (first initial) • first letter of your middle name (not required if you do not have a middle name) (middle intitial) • your full last name, • two digits for the day (not month or year) you were born. For example, a student named John Q. Public born on the 4th of any month would login as: jqpublic04 Proper password format is as follows: • first letter of your first name (first initial) • first letter of your last name (last initial) • last 4 digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). For example, a student named John Q. Public with the last four SSN digits 1234 would use the following password: jp1234 If you need further assistance please visit: www.isothermal.edu/onlcourse.htm or call toll-free (866) 471-4251. Food Services Food and beverage vending machines are located in the dining area of the Student Center and in various buildings around campus. THE PERFORMING ARTS AND CONFERENCE CENTER at THE FOUNDATION 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 and plays, to corporate sales meetings and wedding receptions. Cultural events include a variety of performance disciplines including dance, theatre, popular and classical music, family friendly variety shows, and 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. The facility box office (828) 286-9990 is located at the second floor entrance just off the North parking lot. Its hours are T-F, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Some special ticket prices are available for most foundation sponsored shows by showing your valid student I.D. The conference center space can be rented for both public and private events including proms, weddings, sales seminars, trade shows, meetings, retreats, and reunions. For facility rental information call the Director at (828) 286-3636 ext. 261. Facilities and Services 50 LEARNING SUPPORT AND RETENTION CAREER SERVICES/COUNsELING Career Center 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. Personal counseling services include timely support and relevant referrals for students 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. TESTING SERVICES Testing services include the administration of ASSET and COMPASS placement tests, GED tests, and the TEAS, PSB, and Challenge Exams for applicants to health sciences programs. New students (with the exception of some certificate applicants) are required to take a placement test prior to admission to Isothermal Community College. Placement tests measure students’ skill level in writing, reading, basic mathematics, and algebra. The placement tests provide valuable assistance in initial course placement. ASSET is a paper/pencil administered placement test, and COMPASS is an un-timed computerized placement testing program. Facilities and Services 51 Library The college library is located near the center of campus overlooking the lake and provides many materials and services you may need in support of your courses as well as a quiet place to study or relax. Public computers in the lobby provide access to Microsoft Office and various other software, the Internet, and NC LIVE resources and other research databases. Passwords for off-campus access to NC LIVE and the other research databases are available upon request, either in person, or through the e-mail link on the library homepage. The library website, www.isothermal.edu/library/, provides guidance with research, writing papers, and using documentation styles, as well as links to electronic resources. Free wireless internet access is provided throughout the library building. The CMC Library Consortium online catalog www.cmclibraries.org, allows you to locate materials in the college library, in other areas of the college such as the Small Business Center, and in any of the public libraries in Rutherford and Polk counties. Apply for a free library card from one of the member libraries to borrow materials from any of the locations. The library does not sell textbooks; please visit the College Bookstore to purchase books and other items. Additional information about policies, procedures, and services is in the Library Handbook, available in print in the library and electronically on the library website under “Library Services.” The library is committed to helping our students recognize the value of information literacy, or the ability to access, re-trieve, evaluate, and use information effectively and ethically. Informa-tion literacy includes the ability to: determine the need for information; effectively search various electronic and print resources; retrieve and or-ganize information from a variety of sources; record and properly format citation data; and refrain from plagiarism. According to the American Library Association, it is necessary for students to develop these critical skills in order to become “independent lifelong learners.” The library staff is dedicated to helping students learn these proficiencies, and is glad to assist anyone with questions or concerns about information literacy. American Library Association. Association of College and Research Libraries. Information Literacy Advisory Committee. Introduction to Information Literacy. 7 February 2011. www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/acrl/issues/infolit/overview/intro/ index.cfm. Library Hours Monday – Thursday 7:45 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Friday 7:45 a.m.–4:15 p.m. Holiday, Summer and Semester Break hours as posted. Telephone Reference and Circulation Desk – (828) 286-4636 Facilities and Services 52 Polk County CENTER Polk County Center offers a wide variety of non-credit courses (continuing education) ranging from self-enrichment classes to those which offer training to volunteer firemen, rescue personnel, and certifications in allied health occupations. Courses to improve occupational skills are offered as well. Adult Basic Education, Adult High School, and General Education Diploma (GED) programs are available. English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are offered for persons whose native language is not English. Library services for the Polk County Center are provided by the Polk County Public Library in cooperation with the Isothermal Community College Library. The Polk County Center is fortunate to have dedicated volunteers actively participating in the Polk County Center I.C.C. Foundation, Inc. The Foundation has a significant role in fundraising, provides scholarship aid, and promotes Isothermal Community College in the community. Bulletins listing courses and special events are mailed out every three months, and news releases of curriculum offerings and special events are placed in local papers. Polk Center Preview appears weekly in the Tryon Daily Bulletin. Polk County Center is a vital part of the community. Non-profits, civic and government agencies utilize the facility for meetings. Special events, including musical concerts, are offered to the public free of charge at least once a month. A Holiday Open House is held each year in mid-December. The Polk County Center is located in Columbus at 1255 West Mills Street. A continuous art exhibit of student work is displayed in the gallery. Regular hours of operation: Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. and other prearranged times including weekends Additional information may be obtained by visiting the campus, calling (828) 894-3092 or visiting our website at www.isothermal.edu/polk/ Facilities and Services 53 Recreation and Relaxation The Student Center with its large two-level lounge area is designed for your relaxation. A television is available, and food and beverage vending machines are nearby. Just outside the Student Center are two tennis courts that you may use at any time except during scheduled tennis classes. If you enjoy walking, you might want to take a leisurely stroll around the lake. Enjoy walking the beautiful route around the lake, or relax at the benches and picnic tables along the path. Small Business Center If you are considering a new business venture, an expansion of your current business, or need help in developing a business plan, Isothermal Community College's Small Business Center can work for you. Generally designed for the company with fewer than 100 employees, the Small Business Center provides additional training, one-on-one counseling, access to a state-wide network of business experts or the professional contacts and information needed by the small business. Our resource center also provides the latest literature and audiovisual material on operating a small business. Supplemental Instruction Services (SI): Supplemental Instruction, a peer tutorial program, is available in courses which are historically difficult for students, such as chemistry, anatomy & physiology, history, and math. SI Leaders are students who have previously excelled in the course and then sit through the course again, take notes, and do homework in preparation for the SI sessions. SI Leaders facilitate two sessions per week and students who are enrolled in the SI course may attend as many sessions as they wish. Ask your advisor for more information concerning this free service. Math Tutoring Lab A Math Tutoring Lab is available to provide assistance to students enrolled in many of the math courses offered at Isothermal. The schedule and courses vary, so please check with your instructor to find out when help is available for your math course. The Writing Lab The Writing Lab is a support service for Isothermal Community College students. The lab offers help with all types of writing, research, paper formatting, study skills, reading comprehension, public speaking, and test proctoring. It is not limited to students in English classes; it is for all students in all classes who may need help with language arts. The lab is walk-in (no appointment is necessary), but students do need to sign in as they arrive and sign out when they leave. Computers are available for students who are utilizing the lab for additional help; however, this lab is not an open computer lab. The Writing Lab is located in the Administration Building, Room 210. If you have questions about the Writing Lab, you may call (828)286-3636, Ext. 429. Facilities and Services 54 TELEPHONES Courtesy Phones Available for your convenience in the following locations: Administration 1st and 2nd floor Business Sciences Hallway Library Lobby Applied Science Lobby Information Technology Hallway PAY PHONE Student Services Hallway Foundation 1st Floor Hallway WEBSITE The college website is located at www.isothermal.edu and is your online information resource for: admissions procedures, calendars, catalogs, financial aid, forms, schedules, scholarships, and much more. Facilities and Services PRE-HEALTH SCIENCES PROGRAMS Health Sciences Programs Available Are: • Associate Degree in Nursing • Surgical Technology • Practical Nursing Education (LPN) • Health Transfer Go to www.isothermal.edu/career/health-sciences/ for Information Packets and Schedules of Nursing and Surgical Technology Information Meetings. LPN and Surgical Technology Tina M Porter, BS Counseling/Health Sciences Specialist (828) 286-3636 Ext. 361 tporter@isothermal.edu Associate Degree in Nursing Susan V. Hendrick, MEd, LPC Health Sciences Counselor (828) 286-3636 Ext. 441 shendrick@isothermal.edu GET TO KNOW YOUR ADVISORS WHO ARE LOCATED IN THE LEARNING SUPPORT AND RETENTION OFFICE TO HELP YOU! Student Activities Clubs and Organizations Grub Day and Sports Day News Stories, Announcements, and Events Identification Cards Publications 56 Student Government Association (SGA) All students who pay a student activity fee are members of the SGA, which promotes the interests of the students, improves facilities, plans functions, and assists other student organizations. To find out more information about SGA, contact the Student Activities Coordinator in Room 16 in the Student Center Lobby or visit the website at www.isothermal.edu/sga.htm. (Board approved policy: Student Government) Afro-American Club The purpose of this club is to create more interest and understanding in black culture, to develop character, to encourage improvement in student-faculty communications, and to strengthen the confidence of young men and women in themselves and in their work. It is open to all students regardless of race, gender, or religion. Art and computer design club (ACDC) The Art and Computer Design Club promotes art and design through visual communications. ACDC club members adopt a project annually through which they utilize their skills and talents to affect the quality of student life. Cosmetology Club The purpose of this club is to provide activities relevant to the changing fashion industry and to bring to the campus outstanding artists in all aspects of the field of Cosmetology. Information about career opportunities is provided for those just entering the field. Foothills Nursing Consortium Student Nurses' Association The purpose of this club is to provide programs representative of fundamental and current professional interests and concerns and to aid in the development of the whole person, his/her professional role, and his/her responsibility for the health care of people in all walks of life. International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) This club is designed to assist career-oriented business students in developing a better understanding of the secretarial profession and the business world. To be a member of this club you must be enrolled in a business curriculum. CHARTERED Clubs and Organizations (Clubs and organizations that may receive SGA funding) The college encourages participation in student organizations and activities. Students are encouraged to express their views on matters of interest to the student body through participation on a variety of standing college organizations. (Board approved policy: Student Activities) Student Activities 57 Intramural Sports This program gives all students an opportunity to engage in various programs of physical activity, such as basketball, softball, tennis, golf, badminton, volleyball and swimming. ISOTHERMAL EDUCATION SOCIETY The purpose of this club is to improve learning and standards in Day Care. UNCOMMON Male MENTORING Club (UMMC): The three primary purposes of the UMMC are to increase personal engagement with faculty members, staff, and college life; provide academic and personal skills development and enrichment focused on the minority male experience; and develop programming focused on the minority male that is appropriate for the entire college community. Members of the UMMC are students who have completed all or part of the year-long Minority Male Fellowship Program. Phi Beta Lambda The Omega Theta Chapter is open to all students interested in the field of business and who are enrolled in a business program. Members are required to maintain a minimum of 2.0 GPA. The purpose of this club is to help the student develop competent, aggressive business leadership; strengthen self-confidence; create interest in and understanding of business occupations; and improve and establish standards for entrance into business occupations. Phi Theta Kappa This International Honor Society for two-year colleges recognizes students of top academic standing at Isothermal Community College. Our chapter is Sigma Chi. Students must have accumulated twelve(12) hours of course work within an Associate of Arts, Associate of Sciences or Associate of Applied Sciences degree program and have a cumulative GPA of 3.5. They must also be a currently enrolled student at Isothermal Community College. Student Practical Nurses’ Club This organization’s purpose is to promote a professional and social atmosphere for students in the LPN program, and also to enhance character and professionalism in men and women. Student Activities 58 OTHER RECOGNIZED CLUBS and Organizations (Clubs and organizations that are recognized by the SGA, but are not eligible for funds) CHESS CLUB The Chess Club engages the minds of its members as well as promotes healthy student, faculty and staff fun and competition through the vehicle of chess. Connections Outreach Connections Outreach is touching our campus and community needs one life at a time by providing a network for individuals to seek guidance and encouragement. It is open to any student enrolled at Isothermal Community College. MACHINING TECHNOLOGY CLUB The purpose of the Machining Technology Club is to enhance the knowledge and interest of students in machining and related fields as well as to provide opportunities for student leadership development. STUDENT WRITER’S ASSOCIATION The purpose of the Writer’s Association is to encourage aspiring student writers and enhance the skills of the craft as well as promote appreciation of the diversity of ethnic and cultural literature and the great classics. TWIN PHOENIX KARATE CLUB The purpose of the Twin Phoenix Karate Club is for faculty, staff, and students to have a time and place to practice martial arts together. Twin Phoenix wants to show that learning is a lifelong process and all of us can continue to learn and develop our skills. It is open to all college students regardless of previous training (or a lack there of ) in different styles of martial arts. Beginners are encouraged to attend. It is a free club and is always looking for new members. CAMPUS EVENTS Grub Day and Sports Day On Grub Day, held in the fall, students, faculty, and staff are invited to participate in a variety of games and activities sponsored by campus clubs. On Sports Day, held in the spring, the entire campus community may participate in serious (or humorous) events. On both Grub Day and Sports Day, classes usually are suspended from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Students who have paid the student activity fee are served a free picnic lunch or supper; others may be required to pay a small fee. Grub Day and Sports Day are the only two days of the year when fishing is allowed in the lake. . . sun-up to sun-down. Student Activities 59 Identification Cards Students who are enrolled in curriculum course work during fall and spring semesters are required to pay the student activity fee. Identification (ID) cards are offered to students who pay the student activity fee. The card provides students with their student identification number. We strongly encourage students to memorize this number, because it is frequently requested across campus by advisors, financial aid staff, bookstore staff, and the business of-fice. Please note that this number is to be used in lieu of a Social Security number as it is more secure. A temporary card providing students with their identification number can be obtained at the office of Student Services. 1. Only students who have paid the student activity fee may receive a student ID card. The student activity fee is waived for senior citizens and Dual Enrollment/Huskins students. An ID card will not be made for Dual Enrollment or Huskins students. Interested senior citizens may elect to receive an ID free of charge. 2. This official identification card should be carried by the student at all times on the college campus. 3. The card must be presented when requested by college officials or at college activities on and off the college premises. 4. The card is not transferable to another person. There will be a charge of $5.00 for ID card replacement. If the student would like his picture remade, there is a charge of $5.00 as well. 5. The card should not be altered in any way. 6. This card is the property of Isothermal Community College. If found, please return to Student Services. 7. Students may elect to have their cards reprinted yearly without a card replacement charge. 8. ID cards are made during the first few weeks of the fall and spring semester by the Student Services staff. Students who have lost or broken their ID cards must wait to pay the card replacement fee and have their cards remade after the published date. The ID card provides the following: • Automatic membership in the Student Government Association of Isothermal Community College, which allows students to run for officer or senator in the SGA and to vote in the election • Free admission to some activities sponsored by the college • Discounts at some of the local stores, restaurants, and for Isothermal Cosmetology Services. Student Activities 60 News Stories, Announcements and Events You can access the latest college news releases, feature stories, photography, and coming events announcements from the college’s website at www.isothermal.edu. On the homepage, simply click on the News link to go to news events and features. Most news found at this location will be posted for approximately one month. Also, news announcements are posted in a variety of locations on the Isothermal website, e-mailed to student e-mail accounts, and posted on Facebook and Twitter. Isothermal Community College news announcements and feature stories can be found on a regular basis in The Daily Courier newspaper (Rutherford County) and The Tryon Daily Bulletin (Polk County). A spotlight on Isothermal news can also be found ‘Inside Isothermal,’ a feature in The Daily Courier, written by the Public Information Office. None of these publications may contain, encourage, or promote violations of public laws or regulations of the college. Publications The ANURAN is the college’s annual literary and arts journal. It is designed as a published collection of poems, essays, and photography, the culmination of a yearly contest drawing on the talents of Isothermal and the surrounding communities. Student publications of Isothermal Community College must abide by state and federal laws governing proper journalistic behavior as well as local college regulations. At its discretion Isothermal may provide Directory Information in accordance with the provisions of FERPA to include: student name, major field of study, dates of attendance, degrees, honors and awards received, email address, photograph, and participation in officially recognized activities. Student Activities Crime Awarenes A Commitment to Safety Reporting Criminal Activity Campus Enforcement and Campus Assistance Crime Risk Triangle Cyber Safety Tips Dates and Acquaintances Safety Habits While Driving Registered Sex Offenders Sexual Assault Warning Signs: How You Can Help Prevent Campus Violence Weapons on Campus Where Can You Go For Help? Resource Phone Numbers Campus Enforcement (828) 289-5850 62 A COMMITMENT TO SAFETY The safety of the students who attend Isothermal Community College and the staff and faculty who work here is of the highest importance. We hope that what you read here will cause all of you to join with us in making safety a high priority. Be alert, be aware - you can determine in many cases whether you are going to be a victim or not. We at the college want to know your concerns, and we ask that you not hesitate to report any concerns you have. We want everyone to join together in making the Isothermal Community College as safe as we possibly can. REPORTING CRIMINAL ACTIVITY Anyone who is a victim of, or a witness to, a criminal action at the Polk Center, Rutherfordton Center or Rutherford Campus of Isothermal Community Col-lege should notify appropriate law enforcement authorities by dialing 911 (If a campus phone is used, dial 9 first for an outside line). The campus switchboard operator should also be notified by dialing “0.” The operator will notify college administration and campus enforcement. All incidents should be reported as soon as possible to college administration or campus enforcement at (828) 289-5850. Each year students are informed of the security procedures and what they should do if they are a victim or witness to a criminal action. This information, other safety measures, and statistics on campus crime are presented in the Student Handbook and discussed in ACA 115. The Student Handbook is distributed widely in print and made available on Isothermal Community College's website. Also, safety oriented workshops and activities are offered on campus. Monitor your student email and Isothermal's Facebook page for information regarding these opportunities. You may also sign up to follow Isothermal on Twitter. See Appendix D for further information on crime statistics for Spindale campus and Polk County Center. If crimes are reported to campus enforcement or local authorities that are considered to represent a continuing threat to the campus community, timely warning will be provided to the campus community. Students who are involved in criminal activity (on campus or through college sponsored activities) or other activities that violate the student code of conduct will be subject to college judicial procedures and possibly referred to local authori-ties for prosecution. For further information on students rights, responsibilities, and judicial procedures (includes information on disciplinary proceedings and related sanctions), see Appendix A. As required by the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990, informa-tion regarding campus crime statistics is available in Appendix D. Crime Awareness 63 Minimize opportunity, which is the easiest of the three elements to control, and you minimize your risk of becoming a victim of crime. A criminal has the DESIRE and the ABILITY to commit a crime. A victim provides the OPPORTUNITY for the criminal to act. Crime Risk Triangle The three basic elements necessary for a crime to occur. Crime Risk DESIRE ABILITY OPPORTUNITY CYber safety tips In the past few years, social networking sites, such as Facebook and MySpace, have become a rite of passage on college campuses. The best prevention tool for the dangers that students may face on these sites is education. The National Campus Safety Awareness Month organization recommends the following to keep yourself and your identity safe: • Watch what you post on the Internet (especially sites such as Facebook and MySpace). You never know who is looking at your information. It could be stalkers, future employers, or family members. You can’t control who accesses information about you that you post. Be careful. • Only shop with companies you know. Always use a secure browser. NEVER give out bank account numbers, your social security number, or any other personal information that is not absolutely needed. • Watch what you download. Don’t ever download anything that could pos-sibly harm your computer or invade your privacy. • Never rush out to meet someone. If someone is trying to rush a meeting, then be suspicious. Make sure to talk on the phone before meeting, meet in a public place, and bring a friend. Campus ENFORCEMENT and CAMPUS ASSISTANCE Isothermal Community College Rutherford Campus, Polk County Center and Rutherfordton Center are open to students and visitors on a regularly scheduled basis Monday-Friday. Some classes and special events are scheduled on weekends. Campus Assistance staff secure all buildings after regularly scheduled activities have ended for the day. The Rutherford Campus has officers on duty five days a week, and the Polk County Center has campus assistance personnel Monday-Friday. Campus Enforcement is staffed by the college's resource officers, Cpl. Andy Millard and Cpl. Daniel Elliott of the Rutherford County Sherriff's Depart-ment. These deputies are available to respond to situations involving classroom safety and security, drug and alcohol policy violations, harassment, and other potential criminal activity. Please contact one of them immediately in the event of any kind of campus emergency. Campus Enforcement may be contacted at (828) 289-5850. Campus Assistance staff is available to help with locking and unlocking of buildings, mail, delivery, emergency medical response, and other campus duties. Campus A |
| OCLC number | 19842364 |
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