Student Handbook

PVCC STUDENT HANDBOOK

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP ON COMMITTEES

Students have an opportunity to participate in the college’s governance processes through membership on campus committees, the College Senate, and the Student Government Association. Students are encouraged to seek appointment to committees with student representation, since student input is important in developing issues and concerns that affect the PVCC community.

For more information on these committees contact the office of the Dean of Student Affairs.

STUDENT SERVICES

The purpose of the student services is to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals and to provide opportunity to enhance interpersonal skills, expand personal awareness, and promote community involvement.

Student Development Services Objectives:

• To assist students with their transition to the college.

• To implement admissions activities that clearly informs prospective students about policies and procedures and provides step-by-step instructions to successful enrollment.

• To provide experiences and activities that help students develop skills and knowledge that will help them meet their academic, career, and personal goals.

• To assist students in developing job skills and a meaningful career plan.

• To assist students in transferring to a four-year college or university by providing up-to-date advice on transfer programs and transfer requirements.

• To manage student records efficiently, accurately, and with complete security.
• To administer an effective and fiscally responsible financial aid program.

• To provide a comprehensive program of co-curricular activities to enhance the collegial experience and promote engagement.

• To offer programs and services that promotes wellness, community involvement, social awareness, and respect for the dignity of all individuals.
• To provide a wide array of learning support services (including tutoring, and academic coaching) that support students outside of the classroom.

The Dean of Student Affairs manages the functions and services listed with assistance from the Senior Director of Advising and Transfer, Director of Financial Aid, the Registrar, the Senior Director of Student Success, the senior Director of Outreach and Admissions.

The Dean of Student Affairs reports to the Vice President for Instruction and Student Affairs, who administers both academic and Student Affairs policies college wide.

Admissions and Advising Center

• Admissions and domicile
• Enrollment services
• Specialized help with online application process
• In-take advising and steps to enrollment
• Advising for current students
• Transfer advising
• International Students

MyPVCC

MyPVCC, the student information system (SIS), enables students to complete numerous transactions online. A student’s ID (EMPLID) and passwords are provided at the time that the student completes an application and allow access to online services. Online services are convenient and secure.

Using MyPVCC students may:

• apply for admission and the Nelnet payment plan.
• enroll in classes including adding, dropping, and/or swapping classes.
• pay by credit card.
• obtain grades.
• request an official academic transcript.
• update mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
• print individual class schedules.
• view financial aid awards, payment, disbursement, refund activity, and application status.
• view a “hold” placed on their record.
• view “to do” requirements.

ADMISSIONS AND DOMICILE

Please refer to the section on Tuition Appeal Process.

ENROLLMENT

Enrollment procedures and class times are published each semester in the schedule of classes, available online at www.pvcc.edu several weeks before enrollment. The schedule is usually available about four to six weeks prior to the beginning of classes. Questions about enrollment not answered in the schedule of classes should be directed to the Admissions and Advising Center. Students are responsible for assuring that their enrollments are what they intend and that adds, drops, swaps, and withdrawals are implemented as expected.

The enrollment period begins several weeks to several months prior to the beginning of classes and is available online for students who have completed the admissions process. Students are encouraged to enroll early. Schedules may be adjusted by adding, dropping, and/or swapping classes throughout the enrollment period. After the add/drop period, a student may drop classes or withdraw completely only in accordance with regulations stated in the current college catalog.

Students are urged to promptly report any changes in status online using MyPVCC or at the Admissions and Advising Center so official records are accurate and up to date. Address and telephone number changes are especially important so that correspondence from the college can reach you without delay. Please note that international students are required to notify the dean of Student Affairs and the Immigration and Naturalization Service of any address changes within five days.

Advising Services

The college provides a strong advising program to assist students in making sound decisions regarding occupational, educational, and personal goals. Advisors are trained professionals that help both new and continuing students explore their options, help monitor academic programs, and suggest strategies to improve student success. Advising services are provided by full time advising staff and faculty advisors that rotate through the Admissions and Advising Center

All students are also encouraged to seek information and assistance from the Admissions and Advising Center with academic, career planning and curricular planning for graduation.

Advisors provide support services by aiding in a student’s curriculum choice, by providing individual and group counseling sessions, and by acting as a resource to faculty in their advising and instructional functions.

If students should require assistance beyond the scope of the services of the counseling staff, referral to other qualified persons or agencies will be offered.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT AND REFERRAL

PVCC has a plan that ensures that any student in the midst of a crisis will receive intervention and, if necessary, referral to appropriate agencies and healthcare providers.

Student Affairs staff are also available to assist students in recognizing and dealing with problems that may affect their academic progress. Students that are experiencing symptoms should go to the Admissions and Advising Center to schedule an appointment. The college also maintains a virtual teletherapy program through TimelyCare that is available to students at www.timelycare.com/vccs. The college has also established a cross-disciplinary Threat Assessment Team that identifies potential threats and concerns and provides interventions, support, and referrals.

Orientation/Student Success Course (SDV)

An orientation program is offered to assist students in making a success of their experience at Piedmont Virginia Community College. The orientation program generally begins before enrollment when students are asked to meet with an advisor for an intake session.

Students in all associate degree programs and some certificate programs are required to take a one-credit SDV elective. First-time college students should take a student development course during their first semester. SDV courses provide information and skills to help students succeed at college and assist in students’ educational, career, and life planning. Staff and faculty members serve as instructors of student development courses.

New Student/Undecided Student Advising

New students and undecided students receive their general course advising through the Admissions and Advising Center. Student Affairs specialists provide assistance in general advising and course selection. Admissions and Program Advisors, faculty and counselor also assist students in developing an educational goal and in selecting appropriate courses.

Transfer Planning

Students can access comprehensive transfer services in the Admissions and Advising Center. Advisors help students choose a transfer institution, select an appropriate PVCC program of study, make application to 4-year schools and select transfer courses. The Director of the Advising and Transfer Programs supervises these transfer services. For a complete list of transfer services go to: www.pvcc.edu/transferinfo .

STUDENT ACCESIBILITY & ACCOMODATIONS DISABILITY SERVICES

The college is committed to the goal of providing each qualified student an equal opportunity to pursue a college education regardless of disability. Efforts will be made toward meeting reasonable requests for services to students with disabilities eligible under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

In order to qualify for accomodations, the student must provide clear and specific evidence that documents a formal diagnosis of a disability from a qualified professional. 

All information obtained in diagnostic and medical reports will be maintained and used in accordance with applicable confidentiality requirements. College policy reclassifies any student not enrolled for three full years as inactive. Records of inactive students will not be maintained.

Requests for academic accommodations need to be received with sufficient notice to consider the request and arrange for appropriate services. Students should make every effort to submit requests at least two weeks prior to the time they will need the service. Students requesting sign language interpretation for their classes are asked to make requests at least four weeks prior to the time that classes begin.

Further information is available at the Admissions and Advising Center.

VETERANS BENEFITS AND SERVICES

PVCC provides educational opportunities for qualifying veterans, active-duty military personnel, Selected Reserves, National Guard, Coast Guard, military family members and Department of Defense employees. All associate degree programs, certificate and career studies certificates (credit programs) at PVCC are approved by the Virginia Department of Education for the payment of veterans educational benefits as allowed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The Veterans Services Office at PVCC orients military and veteran students to anu unique admissions and registration requiremnets, makes referrals to appropriate services and helps make connections to both college and community resources. The VSO provides a wide variety of veterans education and transition services to help students succeed in their educational endeavors. Assistance in acquiring, completing, and submitting necessary forms to the VA is available. Support includes coordination of services related to assistance with VA education benefits, domicile determination, placement, course registration and certification of enrollment to VA. Questions related to veteran’s education and transition services can be addressed by contacting the Veterans Services Office in the Admissions and Advising Center and speaking with the Military & Veterans Advisor. The Military & Veterans Advisor also assists students with developing an educational plan to meet with goals, provides guidance for maintaining VA requirements for benefits, advises GI Bill recipients on the required courses consistent with VA regulations and monitors academic progress toward degree or certificate completion.

Specific questions regarding individual eligibility for educational benefits or VA policies and procedures may also be directed to: Department of Veteran Affairs, P.O. Box 4616, Buffalo, NY 14240-4616. Telephone: 1-888-442-4551. Website: www.gibill.va.gov.

To be certified for VA educational benefits, eligible students will be required to submit required documents and forms. Students using their benefits for the first time must complete the Application for VA Educational Benefits (VA Form 22-1990) and provide an original certified copy of their discharge papers (DD-214). Students who believe they are eligible for dependent’s educational benefits should complete an Application for Survivors’ and Dependents Educational Assistance (VA Form 22-5490). Veterans who have used their benefits at another school must complete a Request  for Change of Program or Place of Training (VA Form 22-1995). All applications can be completed online via the GI-Bill web site: www.gibill.va.gov.

VA Educational Benefits:

Chapter 33/Post 911: http://www.gibill.va.gov/documents/pamphlets/ch33_pamphlet.pdf

Chapter 30: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/montgomery_gibill/active_duty.html

Chapter 1606: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/montgomery_gibill/selected_reserve.html

REAP: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/reap.html

DEA: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/dea.html

VEAP: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/veap.html

VRAP: http://benefits.va.gov/vow/education.html

More information about VA educational benefits, veterans’ education and transition services is available in the Veterans Services Office. Student should contact the Veterans Advisor for more information on these programs. Additionally, the current college catalog provides more details on admissions to a curriculum, credit for prior training, satisfactory progress, and other area of concerns to all students.

The Veterans Services Office is located in room M132E next to the Financial Aid Office during college general operating hours and the Veterans Advisor is available by appointment. Appointments may be scheduled by visiting the Admissions and Advising Center or via phone at 434.961.5264. Please visit our webpage at: www.pvcc.edu/admissions/veterans_educational_benefits.php.

CAREER SERVICES

Career Services at PVCC offers a comprehensive program to help students realize their academic and career goals through career assessment and exploration activities. Career Services will assist students in both understanding their strengths, interests, personality, values, and skills in relation to potential career options and programs of study offered at PVCC. Career Services include career exploration, seminars and workshops, resume writing, career and job fairs, and on-campus recruitment. www.pvcc.edu/careerservices

ADMISSIONS AND ADVISING

The Bolick Center is the central point of contact for admissions and academic advising services for new and current students at the college. The Center staff welcomes and orients new students to the admissions and registration process, refers students to appropriate services, and helps all students make connections to college resources. The staff assists current students with monitoring their academic progress and degree or certificate completion and advises them during the course selection process. Any student who is interested in transferring to a 4-year college or university is encouraged to visit the Advising Center to explore the transfer opportunities and learn more about the transfer requirements of specific colleges and universities. An advisor is available in the center by appointment or walk-in during regular business hours. 

STUDENT FINANCIAL AID

General

It is the desire of the college that no qualified student should be denied the opportunity of enrollment because of financial need.

The Financial Aid Office and campus financial aid specialists provide students with counseling, applications, and information about state, federal, and institutional sources of financial assistance including loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study. Assistance is available to qualified students who enroll in at least one course of an eligible academic plan. Application for state, federal, and most institutional programs require completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the appropriate award year.

Detailed information on scholarships, grants, loans, on- and off-campus and community service employment, and applications may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office. Information may also be found in the current college catalog and on PVCC Web site.

Financial Aid Policy of Satisfactory Academic Progress

To be academically eligible for student financial assistance, a student must be making satisfactory academic progress toward his/her degree or certificate program. To accurately measure a student’s progress, the PVCC Financial Aid Policy of Satisfactory Academic Progress will incorporate a qualitative (GPA) measure of progress, a quantitative (Completion Rate) measure of progress, and a time (150% Rule) measure of progress. This policy became effective July 12, 2005.

GPA Requirements (GPA Rule)

In order to remain eligible for financial aid, students must meet minimum cumulative grade point average requirements. Only non-developmental courses with grades of A, B, C, D, and F are included in this calculation. Transfer credits are excluded. In order to graduate, a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is required.

Completion Rate (67% Rule)

Students must receive satisfactory grades in 67% of cumulative credits attempted. This evaluation is made prior to financial aid being awarded and after grades are posted at the end of each semester a student is enrolled at the College. Credits with satisfactory grades are those for which a grade of A, B, C, D, S or P is earned. Developmental and ESL coursework are included in this calculation. Accepted transfer credits will be counted as both attempted and completed.

Maximum Hours (150% Rule)

In order to continue to receive financial aid, a student must complete his or her program of study before 150% of the credits required have been attempted. Developmental and ESL course work are excluded in this calculation. Attempted credits from all enrollment periods plus all accepted transfer credits are counted. All terms of enrollment are included whether or not the student received financial aid and regardless of the age of the coursework.

Developmental and ESL Courses

Students may receive financial aid for a maximum of 30 semester hours of Developmental Studies courses as long as the courses are required as a result of placement testing, the student is in an eligible program of study, and satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements continue to be met. ESL credits are unlimited in numbers as long as they are taken as part of an eligible program and SAP requirements continue to be met.

Financial Aid Warning Status (WS)

Students who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) for the first time will be automatically placed in a Warning Status for one (1) term and are expected to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements by the end of that term. Students who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements at the end of the warning status term will lose their eligibility for financial aid.

Financial Aid Probation Status (PS)

Students who have successfully appealed the loss of their financial aid are placed on probation. Students on probation are eligible to receive financial aid for one (1) semester, after which they MUST be meeting all of the satisfactory academic progress standards OR the requirements of an academic progress plan that was pre‐approved by the Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid Suspension Status (SS)

Students who do not meet the credit progress schedule and/or the cumulative grade point average standard, or who fail to meet the requirements of their pre‐approved academic progress plan will be placed in suspension status and are not eligible for financial aid.

Repeated Coursework

Students can repeat courses with financial aid until successfully completed. There is no limit assuming all other SAP requirements are met. Students may only repeat a passed course once as long as it is in order to meet an academic standard (i.e., a higher grade is required for their program of study). Repeated coursework will be included in the evaluation of completion rate and maximum timeframe. Only the latest grade will count towards the cumulative grade point average.

Appeals

Under certain circumstances, students who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) standards and lose eligibility for financial aid can appeal the financial aid suspension (SS). Appeals will be evaluated by the Financial Aid Office and all decisions are final.

A link to the complete Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy can be found at: http://www.pvcc.edu/docs/policies/policy_satisfactory_academic_progress.pdf

PRIOR PERIODS OF ENROLLMENT

All of the qualitative and quantitative standards of progress must be applied to all prior period(s) of enrollment. Federal regulations require that a student must be in compliance with the school’s satisfactory academic progress policy before receiving a financial aid award. These guidelines must be applied to any student requesting financial aid, even if the student did not receive financial aid in the past.

PLEASE NOTE:  Students who have defaulted on a federal student loan or owe a refund on a federal grant will not be eligible, nor will they receive any future financial aid until the loan or grant obligation is satisfied.

ADDITIONAL POLICIES GOVERNING SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) AT PIEDMONT VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

• Financial aid programs included under this policy are the Pell Grant, FSEOG, Federal Work Study, COMA Grant, VGAP Grant, PTAP Grant, CSAP Grant, and all other state or federal grants, Direct Loans and PLUS Loans.
• Students who have reached the 150 percent point of enrollment may have federal student loan eligibility in some circumstances.
• For purposes of defining credits completed concerning developmental course credit the following will apply:  S grade is considered a completed course. U grade is considered an incomplete course.
• A student who receives only grades of F, W, U, X, and I during a semester do not indicate course completions and are unsatisfactory.
• A student who does not maintain satisfactory academic progress cannot regain their eligibility on the basis of a change of curriculum.
• Returning financial aid students should be aware of any changes to the PVCC SAP Policy.
• Courses taken for audit are not eligible for financial aid.
• Federal regulations allow a student to receive financial aid for only the equivalent of the first 30 semester credit hours of developmental studies attempted, regardless of whether or not the student received any financial aid for these developmental credit hours.

Refunds/Recovery

When a Title IV (Federal Student Aid) recipient completely withdraws, drops out, or is expelled after receiving a disbursement, the college will determine whether the student has received an overpayment. If the federal aid disbursed exceeds the amount earned, the unearned funds must be returned. The college will calculate this amount based on a federally mandated formula and will notify the student. The percentage of federal aid earned is equal to the percentage of the period of enrollment completed as of the student’s withdrawal date. If this date occurs after the 60 percent point, 100 percent of the aid is considered to have been earned. Federal work-study earnings are not included. Loans will be repaid by the student in accordance with the terms of the promissory note.

The college will notify the student of the amount owed and will attempt to collect the repayment to federal student aid programs. If the student does not pay the determined amount, he or she will be ineligible for further federal student aid and will be reported as being an overpayment. The student may be referred to the U. S. Department of Education for collection for failure to pay or failure to make payment arrangements. Payments that are collected from the student will be returned to the appropriate program accounts within 30 days of receiving the student’s repayment. Repayments will be distributed in the following order:  Unsubsidized Stafford Federal Direct Loans; Subsidized Stafford Direct Loans; Federal Direct PLUS Loan Program; Federal Pell Grant Program; Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants Program; and other Title IV programs.

Students withdrawing will have their academic progress evaluated and, even though a student may have repaid part or all of an award, failure to make satisfactory academic progress could result in loss of aid in future semesters.

Recalculation of Awards/Repayment for Non-Attendance

If a student fails to begin attending any class, financial aid awards will be recalculated. This may occur at any point during the semester/term that the Financial Aid Office is made aware of the situation, and it may affect a student’s enrollment status. In most cases, however, calculation of the award will be based on enrollment status on the last day to drop with a tuition refund.

Work-Study Opportunities

The college offers both on- and off-campus, part-time employment opportunities for students who qualify for the federal or work-study programs. Federal work-study is a need-based program and students are awarded work-study based on eligibility and funding. 

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

The student activities program seeks to assist students and the faculty in reaching the goal of integrating a variety of educational, cultural, recreational, and social experiences with the college instructional program.

Types of student activities include the following: student government, publications, intramurals and recreation, dramatic activities, political organizations, professional and service organizations, and music activities. All student clubs and organizations work with an advisor or sponsor from the faculty and administration.

ACTIVITIES CALENDAR

The Office of Student Engagement and College Life maintains an activities calendar. All campus-wide activities and events of interest to the college generally appear on the calendars. All events sponsored by campus groups must be scheduled through that group’s advisor. These will appear on the activities calendar. Dates of activities will also be posted on the college Web site calendar.

PUBLICATIONS

A student, group, or organization of the college may not distribute written material on campus without prior approval of the faculty advisor or Coordinator of Student Engagement and College Life. Approval shall be granted unless the material is libelous, obscene, or preaches the disruption of normal college activities. Editorial freedom of the student press entails a corollary obligation under the canons of responsible journalism. All student communication shall explicitly state on the editorial page that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the college or its student body.

EXPRESSIVE ACTIVITY POLICY

The PVCC expressive activity policy can be found at: www.pvcc.edu/expressive-activity-policy. The purpose of this policy is to set out the policy and procedures that will govern all expressive activities on campus. This policy applies to all buildings, grounds, and other spaces owned or controlled by Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC). The term “expressive activity” includes:

• Meetings and other group activities of students, student organizations, faculty, staff, and outside groups;
• Speeches, performances, demonstrations, rallies, vigils, and other events by students, student organizations, faculty, staff, and outside groups;
• Distributions of literature, such as distributing leaflets and pamphlets; and
• Any other expression protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

College property is primarily dedicated to academic, student life, and administrative functions. However, it also represents the vitally-important function of providing a “marketplace of ideas,” and especially for students, many areas of campus represent a public forum for speech and other expressive activities. PVCC will place restrictions on expressive activities occurring indoors that are likely to create a significant disruption to normal college operations, but the outdoor areas of campus remain venues for free expression, including speeches, demonstrations, and the distribution of literature. 

Indoors or outdoors, PVCC shall not interfere with the rights of individuals and groups to the free expression of their views or regulate their speech based on its content or viewpoint. Even though PVCC has established reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on expressive activity in order to prevent significant disruption of normal college operations, such restrictions are content-neutral, narrowly tailored to serve a significant college operational interest, and allow ample alternative channels for communication of the information.

No event or expressive activity shall be permitted to violate or hinder the rights of others within the campus community or substantially disrupt normal college operations. Hindering the rights of others, however, shall not be defined as promoting ideas that others find disagreeable, offensive, or even repulsive. Promoting unpopular ideas is fully protected. Examples of hindering the rights of others include, but are not limited to, preventing others from expressing their views; threatening violence against another person (something more than hypothetical) or engaging in violent acts; acting aggressively to try to force others to take leaflets or brochures after the person has declined; blocking others’ paths anywhere on campus; and other similar acts to deprive others of their rights.

(a) Responsibilities

The Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services shall be responsible for implementing the policy and is the appropriate official to receive inquiries about the policy.

(b) Procedures For Reserving Campus Facilities

1)  If students, student organizations, or college employees desire to reserve campus facilities, they shall submit their requests to the office of the Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services. Requests must be made with at least 48 hours’ notice. Under extraordinary and rare circumstances, more notice may be required to allow for sufficient logistical support and to ensure the safety and security of the campus. No facility request will be denied due to the nature of the topic to be discussed. Requests may only be denied for the reasons listed under #5 below. 

2)  If individuals or organizations who are not members of the college community (i.e., not students, student organizations, or college employees) desire to reserve campus facilities, they must be sponsored and/or approved by a recognized student organization or the College to conduct expressive activities or events on campus. These individuals or organizations shall submit their requests for sponsorship or approval consistent with PVCC Policy II-100.0. No facility request will be denied due to the nature of the topic to be discussed. Requests may only be denied for the reasons listed under #5 below. 

3)  The college will assess appropriate fees for equipment and facility use to users who are not members of the campus community, as per PVCC Policy II-100.0. Reasonable security fees will be assessed to defray the actual costs of providing security when the size of the audience may pose a risk to safety. Security fees shall not be assessed based on the anticipated reaction to the expressive activity.

4)  Facilities available for use are available only during normal operating hours or as otherwise posted. Any and all expressive activities must not create noise levels that interfere with students’ ability to study and learn in the classroom, library, and other rooms or that interfere with the ability of the college to conduct normal operations on behalf of students.

5)  Students, student organizations, and college employees may request to reserve cam­pus facilities on a first-come, first served basis. These requests may be denied for the following reasons only:

a. The requested venue is an indoor facility that the college has designated as not available for expressive activity as listed below;

b. The requested venue is an indoor facility and the request conflicts with restrictions enacted pursuant to #4 above;

c.  The venue is already reserved for another event;

d.   The activity will attract a crowd larger than the venue can safely contain;

e.   The activity will substantially disrupt another event being held at a neighboring venue[1];

f.    The activity will substantially disrupt college operations (including classes);

g.   The activity is a clear and present threat to public safety, according to the col­lege’s police or security department;

h.   The activity will occur during college examination periods; or

i.    The activity is unlawful.

6)  During an event, the student, student organization, or college employee requesting the reservation is responsible for preserving and maintaining the facility it reserved. If it causes any damage to those facilities, the person(s) or organization (and its officers, if applicable) shall assume full responsibility. 

7)  When assessing a request to reserve campus facilities, the college will not under any circumstances consider the content or viewpoint of the expression or the possible reac­tion to that expression. The college will not impose restrictions on external groups, students, student organizations, or college employees due to the content or view­point of their expression or the possible reaction to that expression. In the event that other persons react negatively to a student’s, student organization’s, college em­ployee’s, or external group ‘s expression, college officials (including college police or security) shall take all necessary steps to ensure public safety while allowing the expressive activity to continue.

(c) Spontaneous Expressive Activity

1) For outdoor campus facilities and areas, students, student organizations, and their sponsored guests may freely engage in spontaneous expressive activities as long as they do not (a) block access to campus buildings, (b) obstruct vehicular or pedestrian traffic, (c) substantially disrupt previously scheduled campus events, (d) substantially disrupt college operations, (e) constitute unlawful activity; or (f) create a clear and present threat to public safety, according to the college’s police or security department.

2)  The Bolick Student Center, North Mall Meeting Room, Dickinson Theater, and Fried Community Room are indoor areas that are available for spontaneous expressive activity, as long as noise levels do not become excessive to the degree that it interferes with classrooms and labs, the library, and offices in their ability to operate efficiently. Because of the configuration of the Bolick Student Center, it will not be available for any expressive activity, spontaneous or otherwise, that requires it to be blocked off from other areas during the activity because of the significant disruption in college operations this would create.       

(d) Areas Not Available For Expressive Activity 

The following indoor areas/facilities are not available for expressive activity:

• Library
• Administrative/business offices
• Classrooms and labs (during instructional hours)
• Bookstore
• Café
• Hallways
• Entrances to buildings within 25 feet of doors

(e) Banners And Distribution of Commercial Materials 

1)  Banners used in expressing speech should be stand-alone, should comply with the provisions of this policy, and cannot be used to block, obstruct, or otherwise deny access to any pedestrian, block or obstruct vehicular traffic, deface any college or private property, create safety hazards, or require employees to assist with their deployment.

2)  Distribution of commercial as well as non-commercial advocacy advertising or the placement of commercial and non-commercial material must follow PVCC Policy II-40.0, and is prohibited in the following areas:

• Administrative offices
• Classrooms, computer rooms, laboratories, and all other places where instruction takes place
• Libraries
• Bulletin boards that are not listed as open bulletin boards under Policy II-40.0

(f) Free Speech at PVCC

PVCC ensures an open culture where students, staff, and faculty can articulate their beliefs and opinions without fear of reprisal. Below is the Freedom of Expression Statement, adopted by the Virginia Council of Presidents (COP) and the VCCS State Board (August 2022):

As presidents of Virginia’s public colleges and universities, we unequivocally support free expression and viewpoint diversity on our campuses. Free expression is the fundamental basis for both academic freedom and for effective teaching and learning inside and outside the classroom. Our member universities and colleges are bound to uphold the First Amendment. We are committed to promoting this constitutional freedom through robust statements and policies that are formulated through shared governance processes and through actions that reflect and reinforce this core foundation of education. We value a scholarly environment that is supported by a diversity of research and intellectual perspectives among our faculty and staff. We pledge to promote and uphold inclusivity, academic freedom, free expression, and an environment that promotes civil discourse across differences. We will protect these principles when others seek to restrict them.

STUDENT ACTIVITY FUNDING

Student activity funding is established to support all entities of the student activity program. The funds are derived from the college local revenue account which is in part generated from student activity fees. This fund is operated and controlled by the PVCC Board under methods and procedures established by the Virginia Community College System and approved by the state auditor. During spring semester, budget requests are submitted and upon approval by the president’s cabinet and the PVCC Board, monies are allocated for the ensuing year.

STUDENT GOVERNANCE

Students at the college are involved in student governance in many different ways. College-wide committees consisting of faculty, staff, and administration also include student members. The College Senate has three permanent seats for students and one for a student alternate.

In addition, students are primarily represented by the Student Government Association. The SGA has representation from all student clubs/organizations, the College Senate, and at-large student members. The Student Government constitution describes in detail the purpose and structure of this organization.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Organizations may be established, as hereinafter provided, within the college for any legal purpose. Affiliation with an extramural organization such as a national society shall not, in itself, disqualify the college branch or chapter from institutional privileges.

1. Full membership lists, including a list of officers of each student organization and copies of the organization’s mission statement will be filed and maintained with the college student activities director.
2. Private clubs, private associations, social fraternities, and social sororities will not be recognized by the college.
3. All organization funds will be deposited with and expended through the PVCC Business Office and are subject to policies, procedures, and regulation pertaining to such funds as established by the State Board for Community Colleges.
4. Recognition of an organization implies neither college approval nor disapproval of the aims, objectives, and policies of the organization. Recognition means only that the organization may use college facilities and receive other support as provided by college policies.
5. Any organization that engages in illegal activities on or off campus may have sanctions imposed against it including admonition, probation, or withdrawal of college recognition.
6. There must be a full-time faculty or staff advisor for each student organization.
7. College facilities may be assigned to student organizations and community civic groups for regular business meetings, social programs, and all programs open to the public, unless in the opinion of the president, the group or the planned program poses a serious threat to the continued well-being and safety of the college.
8. Reasonable conditions may be imposed to regulate the timeliness of requests, to determine the appropriateness of the space assigned, to regulate time and use, and to insure proper maintenance.
9. An individual, group, or organization may use the college name only with the expressed authority of the college.
10. Student organizations, including their officers and members, have no authority to speak for the college or commit the college to any agreement or undertaking. The college reserves the right to supervise on-campus activity but does not assume any obligations to do so.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURE FOR RECOGNITION OF STUDENT GROUPS

The following policies and procedures regarding the development of student groups are established to provide an orderly and timely process of official recognition to those groups organized to provide a particular service in keeping with the college’s missions and goals. It is recognized that small groups of students may wish to meet, often on a short-term basis, to support a particular curricular or service interest. Because of the informal or temporary nature of the group, development of a mission statement may not be necessary. Such an interest group may be formed as noted in Section A of the following procedures. Those student groups anticipating a more continuing function and seeking college funding will go through a process of official recognition as a college organization.

Recognition as a College Organization

1. Initiating the Process

1. Any group of students wishing to form a recognized club or organization should contact the Coordinator of Student Engagement and College Life and obtain the necessary forms from the student activities director and manual.
2. An application for full recognition and a mission statement shall be completed and approved by the student activities director and the dean of Student Affairs. Notice of approval or disapproval of the application will be made by the student activities director.
3. An organization advisor designated from the full-time college teaching, administrative faculty, or staff will be required.
4. Until recognition has been granted, the group will not be allowed to use the college name in its title and no college funds or services will be provided to the group. However, the campus locations for meetings and activities may be designated.
5. The group may sponsor revenue-producing activities.
6. Funds collected or disbursed must be accounted for according to college and state fiscal policies.

 2. Final Processing

1. As soon as the mission statement is reviewed, and an advisor is secured the club may become active and enjoy all the privileges for clubs and organizations.
2. Once an organization has been fully recognized, it may utilize funds for approved purposes. If a club missed the deadline for requesting funds for an academic year it may request seed money from the Office of Student Activities.
3. Approved use of money and activities and all other information pertinent to having a successful club can be found in the student activity manual. This manual can be obtained from the Coordinator of Student Engagement and College Life.
4. Accountability of aforementioned funds is critical and as stated in the student activities manual is a major parameter for disbursement of funds the following year.

Loss of Recognition

Possible reasons for loss of recognition are:

• Evidence of failure to comply with college, local, state policies and regulation (financial policy, policy on scheduling of events, etc.)
• Evidence of failure to comply with its own mission statement.

Procedure Following Loss of Recognition

Funds accrued in the organization’s account will revert back to the student activities account. An organization may be declared inactive and lose recognition by the Dean of Student Affairs and Coordinator of Student. Engagement and College Life. Appeal of this action may be submitted to the Student Government Association, Dean of Student Affairs and Coordinator of Student. Engagement and College Life.

OFFICE OF CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT AND STUDENT LIFE

This office is responsible for coordinating and implementing the policies and procedures pertaining to the operation of campus organizations and activities. In addition to assisting the Student Government (where applicable), student publications, and clubs, the Student Activities Office helps individual students, informal groups, and faculty and staff to develop new activities and services to meet the needs of the campus community. Contact this office to find out what types of programs have been established at PVCC.

If students see a need that is not being met, they are encouraged to tell someone about it, or better yet, DO something about it. Suggestions and requests for social, cultural, recreational, and co-curricular activities are most welcome.

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS

Students are responsible for developing student publications that respond to the needs of the College. PVCC has a newspaper, The FORUM.

PRIVACY OF STUDENT RECORDS

The college is obligated to annually notify students of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, Sec. 438, Publ. L. 90-247, as amended, which sets forth requirements governing protection of a student’s right to privacy in educational records, and which affords students the right to inspect such records.

If a student believes the college has failed to comply with the above Act and/or regulations, he/she may file a complaint with the U. S. Department of Education; or alternatively, he/she may follow the college’s procedures by contacting the dean of Student Affairs. The college has adopted a policy that summarizes in greater detail student rights under the Act and regulations and describes a procedure for handling alleged violations of the above Act and/or regulations. Upon written request, a student may obtain a copy of the policy (or any page of his/her records, except transcripts from other institutions). Such requests shall be filed with the Admissions and Advising Center.

Every effort is made to protect the privacy and confidentiality of student records. A student’s official academic records, supporting documents, and other records are maintained by appropriate members of the college administration. Separate files are maintained for academic and general education records, records of disciplinary procedures, medical records, job placement records, financial aid records of disciplinary procedures, medical records, job placement records, financial aid records, and student activities records. The registrar is responsible for the maintenance of all records.

STUDENT RECORDS DISCLOSURE TO FACULTY AND ADMINISTRATION

Disclosure of student records to faculty and administrative officers shall be only for (1) internal educational purposes, (2) routine administrative and statistical purposes, or (3) legitimate inquiries made by faculty instructors pertinent to the specific instructor’s need to review a student’s background information in order to adequately instruct and guide the student in a specific academic area.

STUDENT RECORDS DISCLOSURE TO PERSONS OUTSIDE THE COLLEGE

The following is considered “directory” information and may be given to any inquirer unless a student specifically requests the Admissions and Advising Center to withhold such information by completing campus personal information - privacy settings in the Student Information System. Additional information is available in the Admissions and Advising Center.

1. Whether or not a student is or has been admitted and/or enrolled at PVCC. Beginning and ending dates of attendance may be given.
2. Credit enrollment status, i.e., less than ½ time, ½ time or full-time.
3. Curriculum in which the student is currently enrolled.
4. Degrees or certificates awarded
5. Honors received
6. Date of graduation.

Other information that is part of a student’s records will not be released to anyone outside the college without the student’s prior written consent except as noted here:

1. Information requested under a court order or subpoena (an effort will be made to contact the student prior to the release of such information).
2. Certain federal and state authorities as noted in the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (including the secretary of the Department of Education, the comptroller general of the United States, and certain state educational authorities).
3. In connection with a student’s application for or receipt of financial aid.

Requests from research agencies or individuals making institutionally approved statistical studies may be approved without a student’s prior approval, provided no information revealing a name or Social Security number is to be published.

STUDENT REVIEW OF RECORDS

A student is guaranteed access to his/her permanent educational record, subject only to reasonable regulation as to time, place, and supervision. A student should direct requests to review educational records to the Admissions and Advising Center. Please note that copies of transcripts from other institutions may not be given to a student but that review of such transcripts is possible.

Students should contact the Admissions and Advising Center to question the content of their educational records. Further appeal should be directed in writing to the dean of Student Affairs as a final appeal. Student access to the financial records of parents through the student financial aid file is not permitted.

STUDENT RECORDS RETENTION

Official student academic records, financial aid data and applicant materials and documents are maintained by the college during a student’s enrollment and for a specified period after enrollment. Some records such as courses attempted, grades, etc., are maintained permanently (electronically) in the college’s computer systems. Documents related to admission and enrollment, such as the application for admissions, are maintained by the college. The retention period varies by document, with the longest retention period being five years subject to audit. Contact the Admissions and Advising Center for details on this policy.

USE OF STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS

Photographs taken of an individual student or groups of students, for example, in classrooms, student lounge areas, and outdoors on campus, may be used by the college for release to newspapers or other media and for reproduction in PVCC publications. If a student is included in such photographs, he/she will not be identified by name or position and will not have his/her name released to outside individuals or organizations without prior written permission.

MYPVCC STUDENT ID NUMBER

The MyPVCC student ID number is used throughout a student’s college career to identity him/her in the Student Information System (SIS) and college records. The SIS assigns 7-digit Student ID number at the time students apply for admission.

Applicants for financial aid are required to provide Social Security numbers. Pell Grant program applicants are advised that Social Security numbers are required by the U. S. Department of Education when processing applications. Also, student requesting deferments for previous loans are advised that the Social Security number is required.

ACADEMIC HONORS

Vice President’s List

Students will be placed on the Vice President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.2 or higher and earning a minimum of 12 credit hours, with no grades less than C.

President’s List

Students will be placed on the President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.8 or higher and earning a minimum of 12 credit hours, with no grades less than C.

To be eligible for grading term honors, students must have 12 credits in graded courses (A, B, C).

Students achieving grade honors listed on PVCC’s website and announced in the Daily Progress newspaper.

ACADEMIC STANDING

Students are considered in good academic standing if they maintained a semester minimum GPA of 2.00, are eligible to re-enroll at the college, and are not on academic suspension or dismissal status.

The college will send students official notification by letter when they are having academic difficulty. Students will be given an appropriate period of time to show improvement. The college may determine that a student is best served by being prevented from further enrollment for a period of time if he/she shows no academic improvement.

The college provides the following official indications of academic difficulty:

1. Academic Warning

If a student fails to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00 for any semester or fails any course, he/she will receive an academic warning.

1. Academic Probation

If a student fails to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 1.50, he/she will be placed on academic probation until his/her GPA reaches 1.50 or better. The statement “Placed on Academic Probation” will be included on the student’s permanent record. The student will be ineligible for appointive or elective office in student organizations and usually will be required to carry less than a normal course load the following semester. While on academic probation the student is required to consult a counselor. An average between 1.50 and 1.99 may not result in formal academic probation; nevertheless, a minimum of 2.00 in a student’s curriculum is a prerequisite to the receipt of an associate. Part-time students will not be placed on academic probation until they have attempted 12 semester credit hours.

1. Academic Suspension

If a student is on academic probation and fails to attain a minimum GPA of 1.50 for the next semester, he/she will be placed on academic suspension. Academic suspension normally will be for one semester unless the student applies and is accepted for readmission to another curriculum of the college. The statement “Placed on Academic Suspension” will be included on the student’s permanent record.

If a student is informer that he/she is on academic suspension, he/she may submit an appeal in writing to the dean of Student Affairs for reconsideration of the case. After termination of the suspension period, a student must meet with the dean of Student Affairs to be reinstated. Students will not be placed on suspension until 24 semester credit hours have been attempted.

Following reinstatement after academic suspension, a student must achieve a minimum 2.00 GPA for the semester. He/she must maintain at least a 1.50 GPA in each subsequent semester of attendance. A student remains on probation until his/her overall GPA is raised to a minimum of 1.50

1. Academic Dismissal

If a student does not maintain at least a 2.00 GPA for the semester of reinstatement to the college when on academic suspension, he/she will be academically dismissed. If a student has been placed on academic suspension and achieves a 2.00 GPA for the semester of his/her reinstatement, he/she must maintain at least a cumulative 1.50 GPA in each subsequent semester of attendance. The student will remain on probation until his/her cumulative GPA is raised to a minimum of 1.50. Failure to attain a cumulative 1.50 GPA in each subsequent semester until a student’s cumulative GPA reaches 1.50 will result in academic dismissal.

Academic dismissal normally is permanent unless, with good cause, the student reapplies and is accepted under special consideration for readmission by the dean of Student Affairs. The statement “Academic Dismissal” will be placed on the student’s permanent record.

1. College Procedures for Students Academically Suspended or Dismissed

The procedures listed below apply to students who have been academically suspended or dismissed:

1. The student is notified of the academic suspension/dismissal through both the PVCC grade report, and a letter sent from the college that describes the suspension/dismissal policy and the steps available for an appeal.
2. A “hold” will be placed on the student’s records so that he/she cannot enroll. The hold will indicate “academic suspension” or “academic dismissal” and is a part of your academic record.
3. If the student chooses to appeal, he/she is required to write a letter to the dean of Student Affairs requesting an exception to the policy. The letter should detail the causes for academic difficulties and describe remedies the student proposes to improve academic performance.
4. If the student is requesting reinstatement to the college, he/she must meet with a counselor and/or dean of Student Affairs.
5. The dean of Student Affairs makes the reinstatement decision.
6. The dean of Student Affairs’ reinstatement decision may be appealed to the vice president of instruction and Student Affairs.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE POLICY

The serving, possessing, and consuming of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at all college-sponsored student events or activities.

BOOKSTORE

Students may purchase books and other supplies at the bookstore during their regular posted hours. Students may purchase/rent textbooks and purchase some supplies at the bookstore’s web site 24/7. The address for the web site is www.pvcc.bkstr.com .  Additional operating hours are provided during the beginning weeks of each semester allowing more flexible hours to purchase books. The bookstore is operated by a private company under an agreement with the college. Sometime during the last few weeks of each semester, the bookstore may buy back books at its discretion. Exact dates of “buy back” will be posted in advance. Questions concerning bookstore services should be directed to the bookstore manager.

Please Note:

1. Basic textbooks are selected and ordered by the academic divisions of the college.
2. Supplementary materials may be used to accompany a basic textbook. Such materials may be selected and ordered for an individual instructor. These types of materials may or may not be required for a subsequent term.
3. Save cash register receipts on book purchases. They are required for refunds when returning books due to add/drop/swap or class cancellation. Students should not write or mark in a book until they are sure they will need the book.

CHILDREN ON CAMPUS

College facilities, including the library, cannot accommodate the care of children while parents are working or attending class. Since the college and its staff cannot be responsible for the safety and welfare of a student’s children, the student must make arrangements for them off campus. Children may not be brought into classrooms or laboratories without permission of the instructor.

COLLEGE CATALOG

The PVCC Catalog is available online at www.pvcc.edu.

COPYRIGHT

Students are expected to comply with federal copyright law. The United State Copyright Law protects all copyrighted materials:  printed materials such as books and journals, music, sound recordings; films, videocassettes, art works, and computer software. Most Internet sites and all their contents are protected by copyright.

The Copyright Act of 1976 grants copyright owners’ exclusive rights to publish, reproduce, perform, and display their works. Anyone publishing, reproducing, performing, or displaying all or part of a copyrighted work is guilty of infringing the copyright unless the act falls within one of the fair use exceptions, or unless she or he has acquired permission to use the work from the copyright owner. Read the law at http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/.

EMAIL

The college’s email system is provided by the Virginia Community College System to all students within the PVCC community. To protect student privacy, instructors may only use a student’s official e-mail address. Students may forward their e-mail to another account if they choose. Instructors are able to issue assignments by e-mail and students are allowed to mail in their work. The college also provides faculty and students with access to Blackboard, a Web-based learning management system. This system allows instructors to post assignments and announcements, have students participate in asynchronous discussions, share written materials, etc.

EMERGENCIES 

The college makes every effort to prevent accidents and reduce risks, but emergencies or crisis situations can happen anywhere. College personnel will call the appropriate emergency service in the event of fire, accidents, or severe illnesses on campus. The appropriate emergency services will be called if anyone at PVCC exhibits symptoms of extreme illness, violent or potentially violent behavior, or other extreme or unexplainable behavior.

DISTANCE LEARNING

For students who prefer to study independently, distance learning courses taught by PVCC faculty are comparable to the same courses taught in the traditional classroom format. Distance learning courses have the same content, grading system, and course credit values as traditional courses. PVCC offers a variety of distance learning formats including online, hybrid, Web conferencing and video conferencing.

Online Courses. Online courses and several associate degree programs are offered through technologies that include the Internet, discussion forums, email, online conferencing, and other Web-based instructional strategies.

Students are responsible for providing their own hardware, software, and Internet service. Requirements to be on campus vary among the online courses; some courses require a minimal number of visits to the PVCC campus for orientation and/or testing. Online courses are delivered in a primarily text-based environment; therefore, reasonably good reading and writing skills are critical factors for adequate course participation. Additionally, research has shown that students who are self-directed and manage their time well are more likely to succeed using this delivery model. It is recommended that students carefully evaluate their readiness and abilities in these areas before selecting online courses. Resources to assist students in determining readiness for online courses may be found at www.pvcc.edu/odl.

Hybrid Courses. In addition to online courses, PVCC offers a variety of hybrid courses. A hybrid course is one that blends online and face-to-face delivery. A substantial proportion of the course content is delivered online; the course typically includes online discussions and some face-to-face meeting times. Students are responsible for providing their own hardware, software, and Internet service.

Additional information regarding distance learning and technical requirements maybe found at: www.pvcc.edu/odl

ADVISORS

Students entering college should work with an academic advisor to plan their program for meeting their educational objectives. New and current students can receive advising services in the Admissions and Advising Center. Student Affairs staff, academic advisors, and faculty will work with students each semester to select courses, monitor academic progress and help students meet their academic and career goals.

FIRE ALARMS

When you hear a fire alarm, gather your belongings, and quickly exit the building through the nearest emergency exit. Emergency evacuation plans are posted in all rooms on campus. You should become familiar with the exits for each room you use. Follow the directions of college faculty and staff members and move away from the building and out of the path of responding emergency equipment. Do not return to the building until you are directed to do so by faculty or staff members. Do not ever assume that an alarm is a drill. Treat every alarm as real.

FIREARMS AND OTHER DANGEROUS WEAPONS

The information below outlines current policy:

8VAC95-10-10. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Police officer” means law-enforcement officials appointed pursuant to Article 3 (§ 15.2-1609 et seq.) of Chapter 16 and Chapter 17 (§ 15.2-1700 et seq.) of Title 15.2, Chapter 17 (§ 23-232 et seq.) of Title 23, Chapter 2 (§ 29.1-200 et seq.) of Title 29.1, or Chapter 1 (§ 52-1 et seq.) of Title 52 of the Code of Virginia or sworn federal law-enforcement officers.

“College property” means any property owned, leased, or controlled by a member college of the Virginia Community College System and the administrative office of the Virginia Community College System.

“Weapon” means (i) any pistol, revolver, or other weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind by action of an explosion of any combustible material; (ii) any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, machete, razor, slingshot, spring stick, metal knucks , or blackjack; (iii) any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nunchaku, shuriken, or fighting chain; (iv) any disc, of whatever configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled and which may be known as a throwing star or oriental dart; or (v) any weapon of like kind, to include but not limited to, tasers.

“Weapon” does not mean knives or razors used for domestic purposes, pen, or folding knives with blades less than three inches in length, or knives of like kind carried for use in accordance with the purpose intended by the original seller.

8VAC95-10-20. Possession of weapons prohibited.

A. Possession or carrying of any weapon by any person, except a police officer, is prohibited on college property in academic buildings, administrative office buildings, student centers, childcare centers, dining facilities and places of like kind where people congregate, or while attending any sporting, entertainment, or educational events. Entry upon the aforementioned college property in violation of this prohibition is expressly forbidden.

B. Any individual in violation of this prohibition will be asked to remove the weapon immediately. Failure to comply may result in a student conduct referral, an employee disciplinary action, or arrest.

8VAC95-10-30. Exceptions to prohibition.

A. The prohibition in 8VAC95-10-20 shall not apply to current sworn and certified local, state, and federal law enforcement officers with proper identification, nor shall it apply to possession of a weapon when stored securely inside the vehicle of properly permitted students and employees.

B. The chief of the college police department or head of security department, or his designee, may authorize in writing a person to possess, store, or use a weapon: (i) when used for educational or artistic instruction, display, parade, or ceremony sponsored or approved by

the college (unloaded or disabled only and with other specified safeguards, if appropriate); or (ii) for any college-approved training, course, or class.

8VAC95-10-40. Person lawfully in charge.

Campus police officers or security, and other police officers acting pursuant to a mutual aid agreement or by concurrent jurisdiction, are lawfully in charge for the purposes of forbidding entry upon or remaining upon college property while possessing or carrying weapons in violation of this chapter.

GRADUATION

The college awards degrees and certificates at the end of each semester to those who have applied and met graduation requirements. A commencement ceremony is held each year at the end of the spring semester. Applicants for graduation are advised to check with the Admissions and Advising Center for information.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

Piedmont Virginia Community College remains open when primary and most secondary roads are passable. When delays and closings are announced, the website is the first method of notification, followed by e2Campus text and e-mail emergency notification, local television stations, and then local radio stations (both FM & AM). Information will also be posted on PVCC’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Closings and delays will affect all PVCC campus locations unless mentioned otherwise in the notification. The following phone numbers will also have late opening/closing information:

PVCC main phone:  434.977.3900

              PVCC inclement weather/emergency message line:  434.971.6673

Due to the unpredictable nature of Virginia’s weather, PVCC may be required to close or open late. The late opening is based on an 8:00 a.m. opening time. In the event of a late opening, you should attend the class that is in progress at the time you arrive at the campus. Examples are listed below:

• If the college does not open until 10 a.m., you would arrive at the campus at 10:00 a.m. to attend your 10:00 a.m. class (not your 8:00 a.m. class.)
• Classes that are in progress at 10 a.m. would begin at 10 a.m.
  • A 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. class would instead run from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
• Classes that begin at 10 a.m. or later will be held at their usual time.
• If the College closes early due to inclement weather, classes affected by the closing should meet as scheduled, and end at the time the College will be closing.

BETTY SUE JESSUP LIBRARY

The Betty Sue Jessup Library was named in memory of a Charlottesville woman known for her care and concern for area residents. It was formally named and dedicated in a ceremony held September 11, 1991.

The library collection consists of over 37,000 prints; over 60,000 e-books; 165 print periodicals; 1,849 audiovisual units, including DVDs, CDs, maps, slides, videotapes, etc. The Jessup Library also has access to full-text periodicals and databases on the Internet. Some of these full-text periodical services include EBSCO, Factiva, and Literature Resource Center.

Other electronic tools include APA PsycNet, FirstSearch, CQ Researcher and Cambridge Scientific Abstracts. These databases have restrictions that require the college to limit access to students, faculty, and staff. Access to these databases is available from off-campus. Instructions for remote access and a list of all electronic databases can be found on the library’s web page: www.pvcc.edu/library.

Books from the circulating collection may be checked out for 28 days. Students may renew materials twice until the end of the semester unless another user requests the item. Periodicals, newspapers, and magazines may be checked out for one week and renewed once. Videos may be checked out to students for use within the library. Materials may be placed in the reserve collection by faculty for students; most are circulated within the library. Reference librarians are present to assist in locating information and to provide instruction in using library materials, information sources and the Internet. Students at remote sites may phone (434.961.5309), or e-mail (reference@pvcc.edu), or instant message (http://jessuplibrary.blogspot.com/) the reference librarians for assistance. The staff conducts student orientation to the library as well as instruction for classes with special assignments.

The library is committed to providing students with the resources they need to make their academic experiences at PVCC successful.

LOCKERS

PVCC has a limited number of lockers available on the 100 hallway. Lockers are primarily for use by students taking a fitness class. Any lockers that remain after the first two weeks of class may be used by the remaining student body. PVCC does not provide locks, but the student can bring a lock and reserve a locker with the Fitness Room staff.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost personal articles are stored in the PVCC Security Office. They may be claimed upon appropriate demonstration of ownership.

SAFETY INFORMATION

The annual College Safety Report is available on the college web site at https://www.pvcc.edu/statistics-safety-information.

SMOKING

Smoking is permitted in personal vehicles and within parking lots. Smoking is also permitted within designated smoking areas identified by “DESIGNATED SMOKING AREA” signs and the presence of smoking urns.

Except as noted above, smoking is not permitted on college grounds.

Smoking is not permitted inside college buildings.

Smokers are responsible for properly disposing of smoking materials.

Non-compliance of the smoking rules and regulations will result in a $30 fine.

TUITION AND FINES

TUITION PAYMENT

Tuition is due and payable at the time of registration or by the dates posted each term. Tuition charges are subject to change at the discretion of the State Board for Community Colleges. The most current tuition is posted on the college website:  www.pvcc.edu.

Payment of tuition enables students to use the library, bookstore, student study areas, and other facilities of the college.

Dishonored checks received from the bank must be made good within five working days after notification from the Business Office. There is a service charge for each check returned. In addition, the check writer is responsible for all reasonable administrative costs, collection fees, or attorney fees incurred in the collection of the check.

Refer to the schedule of classes and college Web site for payment deadlines.

TUITION PAYMENT PLAN

To help you meet educational expenses during the fall and spring semesters, PVCC offers a convenient and affordable payment plan administered by Nelnet (formerly FACTS). This payment program is not available for classes taken during the summer semester. This is not a loan program, so you incur no debt. There are no interest or finance charges, only a modest enrollment fee and there are no credit checks.

The earlier you enroll in the program, the more likely the lowest monthly payment option will be available. For more information go to the financial aid pages of the PVCC Web site or contact the Cashier’s Office.

TUITION REFUND

Students shall be eligible for a refund for those credit hours dropped during the add/drop period. After the add/drop period has passed, there will be no refunds.

For exact add/drop dates, consult the schedule of classes or the calendar on the college Web site. Short courses (less than one term in length) have shorter add/drop and withdrawal periods.

DOMICILE/TUITION APPEAL PROCESS

To be eligible for in-state tuition, an applicant must be and have been legally domiciled in Virginia for a period of at least one year prior to the semester for which he/she is enrolling. An applicant must establish by clear and convincing evidence, that he/she is eligible for in-state tuition. All applicants must complete the domiciliary items included on the application and provide any documentation that may be deemed necessary.

All independent applicants under the age of 24 must meet one of the following criteria or provide clear and convincing evidence of independent domicile:

• Veteran or active-duty member of the U. S. Armed Forces.
• Married.
• If both parents are deceased, no adoptive or legal guardian.
• Graduate or first professional student post bachelor’s degree.
• Ward of the court or was a ward of the court until age 18; or
• Legal dependents other than spouse.

For all dependent applicants under the age of 24, a parent or legal guardian will need to complete domiciliary items included on the application.

Documentation may include the following forms from Virginia:  driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, state income tax forms, employment verification from employer, voter registration, etc. Factors used to support in-state tuition must have existed for a period of one year prior to the first day of class.

The Admissions and Advising Center is responsible for making decisions on domicile matters. The applicant who is denied in-state tuition has a right to appeal. PVCC’s appeals process is as follows:

• Within five working days of notification of denial, the applicant must submit a written appeal with any additional supporting documentation to the dean of Student Affairs. Within five working days of receiving the information, the dean will notify the applicant of the decision.
• If the applicant is denied again, an appeal, in writing, may be made to the vice president for instruction and Student Affairs within five working days. The vice president will chair a committee to review the case. The applicant will be notified of the committee decision within 10 working days from date the appeal was received.
• A final appeal may be made to the circuit court in Charlottesville within 30 days of receipt of the decision by the dean. A copy of the petition for review must be filed with the college when it is filed with the court.

LIBRARY CHARGES

Jessup Library charges no fines for overdue books. A hold is placed on the records of students with overdue books at the end of the semester; the student is prohibited from receiving a transcript and may not register for classes. A borrower who loses or damages library material shall be charged the cost to replace the item. A minimum charge of $50.00 for books no longer in print shall be charged. Payments for lost materials are not refundable.

PHOTO IDENTIFICATION

Student photo identification cards are provided to credit students through the student activities fee. ID cards may be needed for library material use, campus copying and printing, admissions to special student activities, parking, and so forth. The photo identification cards can be obtained from the Security Office.

PVCC STUDENT ID POLICY

A student photo ID card is a student’s official Piedmont Virginia Community College identification. Student photo identification cards are provided to students through the student activities fee. The photo identification cards can be obtained from the Security Office. ID cards must be presented for admission to special student activities, obtaining parking decals, and to purchase discounted bus passes. ID cards can be used for library material use and discounts at local merchants.

Identification cards for students and employees of PVCC are available from the Security Office during normal operating hours of the College. The office is located in room M218 in the Main Building.

All applicants must present a copy of current class schedule and some other form of valid ID (i.e., valid driver’s license, passport, military/gov’t ID, birth certificate, social security card, voter registration card). Students must present their student ID card if requested by college personnel. Failure to present an ID is a student code of conduct violation and may result in disciplinary action

Information for students:

• Students should only have the most current ID card in their possession.
• Contact security if their ID card is lost or stolen. An incident report will be filed, and a new card issued to the student.

• If a card is damaged or unusable, return the damaged card to security for issuance of a new card.
• Cards are non-transferrable to another person.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

The PVCC Student Code of Conduct is located at: https://catalog.pvcc.edu/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=919

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STUDENT/PATRON ETHICS AGREEMENT AND PVCC COMPUTER USE AGREEMENT

The Office of Information Technology is responsible for the planning, deployment, and maintenance of services in academic and administrative computing. It provides computing and communication services to the college community over a state-of-the-art wired and wireless local area network of approximately 600 computers connected to the Internet.

The college has 17 computing labs and two computer-aided drafting labs. Students have access to word processing, spreadsheet, and database management programs as well as specialty software. Students also have access to e-mail and to the Internet.

Computer Use Guidelines

Access to and the use of computers by students and patrons of PVCC are governed by the Virginia Community College System and PVCC computer ethics guidelines. These guidelines emphasize user responsibility for using computer applications, services, resources, and the information they generate in an authorized manner, as well as for maintaining appropriate security of computing systems and their operation. Failure to abide by the guidelines may result in disciplinary action, including possible loss of the privilege of using the college’s computing facilities and services.

Copies of PVCC’s computer ethics guidelines are available in the college’s computing facilities and on https://www.pvcc.edu/technology-services. In signing onto a student account or otherwise logging into PVCC’s local area network (LAN), users acknowledge their understanding of and intent to abide by them. College personnel are available to answer questions regarding appropriateness of the use of computing resources.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STUDENT/PATRON ETHICS AGREEMENT

As a user of the Virginia Community College System’s local and shared computer systems, I understand and agree to abide by the following acceptable use agreement terms. These terms govern my access to and use of the information technology applications, services, and resources of the VCCS and the information they generate.

The college has granted access to me as a necessary privilege in order to perform authorized functions at the college where I am currently enrolled. I will not knowingly permit use of my entrusted access control mechanism for any purposes other than those required to perform authorized functions related to my status as a student. These include logon identification, password, workstation identification, user identification, digital certificates, or 2-factor authentication mechanisms.

I will not disclose information concerning any access control mechanism unless properly authorized to do so by my enrolling college. I will not use any access mechanism that the VCCS has not expressly assigned to me. I will treat all information maintained on the college computer systems as strictly confidential and will not release information to any unauthorized person.

Computer software, databases, and electronic documents are protected by copyright law. A copyright is a work of authorship in a tangible medium. Copyright owners have the sole right to reproduce their work, prepare derivatives or adaptations of it, distribute it by sale, rent, license lease, or lending and/or to perform or display it. A student must either have an express or implied license to use copyrighted material or data or be able to prove fair use. Students and other users of college computers are responsible for understanding how copyright law applies to their electronic transactions. They may not violate the copyright protection of any information, software, or data with which they come into contact through the college computing resources. Downloading or distributing copyrighted materials such as documents, movies, music, etc. without the permission of the rightful owner may be considered copyright infringement, which is illegal under federal and state copyright law. Use of the college’s network resources to commit acts of copyright infringement may be subject to prosecution and disciplinary action.

The penalties for infringing copyright law can be found under the U.S. Copyright Act, 17 U.S.C. §§ 501-518 (http://www.copyright.gov/title 17/92chap5.html) and in the U.S. Copyright Office’s summary of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (http://www.copyright.gov/legislation/dmca.pdf).

I agree to abide by all applicable state, federal, VCCS, and college policies, procedures and standards that relate to the Virginia Department of Human Resource Management Policy 1.76-Use of Internet and Electronic Communication Systems, the VCCS Information Security Standard and the VCCS Information Technology Acceptable Use Standard. These include, but are not limited to:

• Attempting to gain access to information owned by the college or by its authorized users without the permission of the owners of that information.
• Accessing, downloading, printing, or storing information with sexually explicit content as prohibited by law or policy.
• Downloading or transmitting fraudulent, threatening, obscene, intimidating, defamatory, harassing, discriminatory, or otherwise unlawful messages or images.
• Installing or downloading computer software, programs, or executable files contrary to policy.
• Uploading or downloading copyrighted materials or proprietary agency information contrary to policy.
• Sending e-mail using another’s identity, an assumed name, or anonymously.
• Attempting to intercept or read messages not intended for them.
• Intentionally developing or experimenting with malicious programs (viruses, worms, spy-ware, keystroke loggers, phishing software, Trojan horses, etc.) on any college-owned computer.
• Knowingly propagating malicious programs.
• Changing administrator rights on any college-owned computer, or the equivalent on non-Microsoft Windows based systems.
• Using college computing resources to support any commercial venture or for personal financial gain.

Students must follow any special rules that are posted or communicated to them by responsible staff members, whenever they use college computing laboratories, classrooms, and computers in the Learning Resource Centers. They shall do nothing intentionally that degrades or disrupts the computer systems or interferes with systems and equipment that support the work of others. Problems with college computing resources should be reported to the staff in charge or to the Information Technology Help Desk.

If I observe any incidents of non-compliance with the terms of this agreement, I am responsible for reporting them to the Information Security Officer and/or management of my college.

I understand that I must use only those computer resources that I have the authority to use. I must not provide false or misleading information to gain access to computing resources. The VCCS may regard these actions as criminal acts and may treat them accordingly. I must not use VCCS IT resources to gain unauthorized access to computing resources of other institutions, organizations, individuals, etc.

The System Office and colleges reserve the right (with or without cause) to monitor, access and disclose all data created, sent, received, processed, or stored on VCCS systems to ensure compliance with VCCS policies and federal, state, or local regulations. College or System Office officials will have the right to review and/or confiscate (as needed) any equipment (COV owned or personal) connected to a COV owned device or network.

I understand that it is my responsibility to read and abide by this agreement, even if I do not agree with it. If I have any questions about the VCCS Information Technology Acceptable Use Agreement, I understand that I need to contact the college Information Security Officer or appropriate college official.

By acknowledging this agreement, I hereby certify that I understand the preceding terms and provisions and that I accept the responsibility of adhering to the same. I further acknowledge that should I violate this agreement; I will be subject to disciplinary action.

COMPUTER USE AGREEMENT

Piedmont Virginia Community College’s computing resources have been deployed to enhance the educational experience of its students and the operating efficiency of its faculty and staff. As with its other resources, these computing resources are the property of the college and are to be used for college purposes. Computers and other computer resources are college property and the rules and regulations that apply to college property apply to computing resources.

Computer software, database, and electronic documents are protected by copyright law, and users may not violate the copyright protection of any information, software, or data with which they come into contact through the college’s computing resources. Students, faculty, and staff are responsible for understanding how copyright law applies to their electronic transactions.

Users of Piedmont Virginia Community College’s computing resources are required to respect the privacy of other users. They may use only their own user identification unless they have been authorized by a college official to use someone else’s. They may not allow others to use their user identification.

Users may take advantage only of the computing equipment and services they have expressed permission to use. They may use these resources only for the purposes for which they have been given permission. They may not use any system loopholes or special knowledge of computer systems to make any changes in the system, to make use of any extra resources, or to take resources from others.

Users may not attempt to gain access to information owned by the college or by its authorized users without the permission of the owners of that information. They may not attempt to intercept or read messages not intended for them. Users must identify themselves in all messages sent from college computers.

The college’s computing resources may not be used to support any commercial venture or for personal financial gain unless such use has been specifically approved in advance by the college president. The college’s computing resources may not be used to send or seek out obscenities or obscene materials except to the extent that doing so is a component of a bona fide college activity.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY

The sexual misconduct policy at PVCC applies to all students, faculty, and staff and includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, and power relationships. PVCC shall not tolerate sexual misconduct in any form and shall aggressively investigate all reported incidents of abuse on campus. The college encourages all members of the college community to be aware of both the negative and far-reaching consequences of sexual misconduct and the options and support services available to victims.

Sexual assault includes a wide range of behavior in which coercion is used to obtain sexual contact against a person’s will. It is defined as sexual contact without consent and includes intentional touching without consent, either of the victim or when the victim is forced to touch, directly or through clothing, another person’s genitals, breasts, thighs, or buttocks; rape (sexual intercourse without consent whether by an acquaintance or a stranger); attempted rape; sodomy (oral sex or oral intercourse) without consent; or sexual penetration with an object without consent.

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct or written communication of a sexual nature when:

• Submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or academic performances; or
• Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for employment decisions such as promotion or performance evaluation; or
• Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or educational environment.

Power Relationships. As a matter of sound judgment and professional ethics, it is the responsibility of all faculty and supervisors to avoid having sexual relationships with or making sexual overtures to students or employees over whom they are in position of authority by virtue of their specific teaching or administrative assignments.

The president designates a sexual misconduct policy coordinator to oversee all issues and incidents arising under this policy. All incidents of possible sexual misconduct arising under this policy shall be reported immediately to the dean of Student Affairs at 434.961.6540.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND GRIEVANCE POLICIES

The College’s academic policies, including those for an academic grievance (ex. grade appeal), can be found in the College Catalog: https://catalog.pvcc.edu/ 

PARKING AND TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

Parking and Vehicle Registration

Student Parking. The college has designated parking areas for students. All students, day, evening, and online must obtain a parking decal in order to park in these areas. Students should fill out a vehicle registration card during class registration and secure a decal which is to be placed on the left side of the rear bumper, or alternately, on or in the rear window of the student’s vehicle. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the decal is visible. Student decals are also available at the main building reception desk, the cashier’s window, and the Security Office (main building, room 218). Registering online does not excuse a student from the requirement to register their vehicle and secure a parking decal.

Each vehicle a student operates must have a decal in order to park on the PVCC campus. The general traffic regulations of the state are applicable on the PVCC campus. Fines will be imposed on those who violate college traffic and parking regulations, and students are responsible for any violation committed by the operator of a vehicle registered in the student’s name. There is no charge for a student parking decal. Not registering a vehicle is itself a parking violation subject to the same fine as other general parking violations.

Lot 1 is reserved for faculty, staff, and visitor parking from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Lot 2 is reserved for faculty, staff, and visitors from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Student parking is located in Parking Lots 3 and 4. If parking citations are not paid or cancelled on appeal, repeated violators may lose on-campus parking privileges. The fine for general parking violation is $20.00. Appeals of parking fines should be made in writing to the Parking Appeals Panel through the vice president for finance and administrative services (main building, room 241). Appeal forms are available at the Cashier’s office and on the PVCC Web site.

Students who are employed by the college on a part-time basis are not eligible for employee parking permits.

Handicapped Parking. Handicapped parking permits that allow parking in designated handicapped parking spaces can only be issued by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. The college is not authorized to issue permits which allow parking in handicapped spaces. All persons including students with valid handicapped parking permits may park in any handicapped space in any college parking lot. The fine for illegally parking in a handicapped space is $100.00. Albemarle County and state authorities may also issue tickets for parking in a handicapped space or for other violations (such as blocking a fire hydrant). The fines for tickets issued by county and state authorities are typically higher than for tickets issued by the college.

Common Traffic Offenses. In addition to parking in an employee or visitor parking space, the following are common traffic offenses:

Parking outside of a designated parking space; parking at a yellow curb; parking or stopping in a driveway so as to block the use of the driveway to others; parking with 15 feet of a fire hydrant; parking in a bus zone or fire lane as indicated by signs or marks upon the road or curb; parking in a loading zone as indicate by signs or marks upon the road or curb; parking on the grass unless such parking is indicated by a sign as being permitted; parking in a zone or area designed by signs as reserved for restricted parking; failing to register a vehicle; expired decal; driving in a direction opposite to the marked traffic arrows.

Vehicles cannot be left unattended for a period of time exceeding 15 hours or to park a vehicle overnight without prior consent. As a general policy, overnight parking will not be permitted except for official college purposes or in an emergency. The security office (cell phone number 434.981.6362) should be contacted if circumstances require permission for extended or overnight parking.

Visitor Parking. Short term (2 hours or less) visitors should park in designated visitor parking spaces and does not need to secure a visitor’s parking permit. Visitors who will be on campus for longer periods or who must park in spaces other than those specifically marked for visitors should obtain a visitor’s parking permit. Visitors are not permitted to park in reserved spaces. Visitor’s permits are available at the main building reception desk and the Security Office. Students may not park in visitor spaces. Visitors are subject to the same regulations regarding traffic offenses and appeals of parking fines as are employees and students.

VIP visitor parking may be reserved by the President’s Office and the Office of Institutional Advancement and Development for board meetings and VIP visitors. Other college offices are not authorized to reserve visitor parking. Departments that have frequent or numerous visitors are authorized to issue visitor parking permits for general visitor parking. The standard PVCC temporary hang tag should be used for this purpose.

Liability. PVCC will not be responsible for loss or damage to motor vehicles or their contents while they are on college property. Drivers should use caution and good sense while in the parking areas.