Howard Community College

POLICIES 85 All parties and staff will keep the complaint, fact-finding process and outcome confidential, except to the extent that it is necessary to investigate and process the complaint. Furthermore, all student records and access to student records will comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). Persons filing complaints of harassment or discrimination will be protected against reprisals by actions that are appropriate to the circumstances. Those persons who are found filing deliberate false complaints will be subject to disciplinary action. AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/ EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Howard Community College is committed to provide equal opportunity through its employment practices, educational programs, admissions and the many services to the community. It is the policy of the college to abide by all applicable requirements of federal and state law so that no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, sex, age, religion, ethnic background, marital status, sexual orientation, political persuasion or disability. The college will adhere to applicable laws and regulations affecting affirmative action and equal employment opportunity. The board of trustees has committed the college to undertake an affirmative action program to expand equality of opportunity and to initiate the recruitment of minorities. The program has been designed to ensure equality of opportunity in employment as well as to develop and maintain educational programs and services for our many diverse populations. DRUG AND ALCOHOL- FREE CAMPUS It is the intent and obligation of the college to provide a drug-free, healthy, safe and secure educational environment. Students are expected to contribute to the desired environment by conducting themselves within the guidelines of the student conduct code. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of illicit drugs or alcohol as a part of any Howard Community College activity whether on or off college premises is absolutely prohibited. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, consistent with normal college policy and procedures. In addition, any violations may have legal consequences consistent with local, state, and federal law. The college will cooperate with appropriate health and law enforcement agencies. The college recognizes drug or alcohol abuse as an illness and a major health problem. The college also recognizes drug or alcohol abuse as a potential safety and security problem. Students needing help in dealing with such problems are encouraged to use their health insurance plans, the college Academic Support, Counseling and Career Services Office, and other appropriate community agencies. A list of other county agencies, and descriptions of various health risks associated with the use of illicit drug or alcohol abuse, is available in the offices of the Academic Support, Counseling and Career Services, Student Life, Human Resources, and the Athletic Department. Voluntary participation in an assistance program will not jeopardize

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