College Policies

Cascadia College is committed to facilitating the academic success of students. The primary purpose of the Academic Standards and Progress Policy is to quickly identify and alert students with low academic achievement and provide those students with assistance to improve their academic performance. Additionally, the policy is intended to ensure students are making progress toward their educational goals.

Good Academic Standing

Students whose cumulative and most recent quarterly grade point average (GPA) is 2.0 or above are considered to be on good academic standing.

Level 1 - Academic Concern

Students enrolled in academic programs carrying five or more credits will be placed on Academic Concern at the end of any quarter in which their cumulative GPA is 2.0 or better but their quarterly GPA is below 2.0. Students who fail to make satisfactory progress over time will be placed on the next level of academic intervention. Students placed on Academic Concern will be sent a letter that offers effective study tips and strongly encourages students to take advantage of college support resources for education planning. There is no appeal process to this level of intervention.

Level II - Academic Intervention

Students enrolled in academic program carrying five or more credits will be placed on Academic Intervention at the end of any quarter in which both their cumulative and quarterly GPAs are below 2.0. Students placed on Academic Intervention will be sent a letter that offers effective study tips and strongly encourages students to take advantage of college support resources for education planning. Students on Academic Intervention are required to complete an Academic Success Plan that outlines steps, created by the student, for improving the student's academic performance. A student on Academic Intervention will be required to meet with an advisor to review their success plan prior to registration.  Registration will be blocked while the student remains on Academic Intervention. Students must contact advising to register, add or drop courses. There is no appeal process to this level of intervention. Students remain on Academic Intervention until their cumulative GPA is 2.0 or better.

Level III - Academic Suspension

Students enrolled in academic programs carrying five or more credits will be placed on Academic Suspension at the end of any quarter in which their cumulative and quarterly GPAs are below 2.0 for three consecutive quarters. Students placed on Academic Suspension will not be permitted to register for any courses for credit the subsequent quarter. Suspended students will be blocked from registering. Students who enrolled for classes prior to suspension status will be administratively withdrawn, and tuition paid will be refunded. While suspended, students may not participate in events or activities reserved for students. Students placed on Academic Suspension will be sent a letter that outlines the appeal process for reinstatement. To be considered for reinstatement, students must show proof of circumstances over which they did not have control and/or proof of making measurable and substantial progress towards improving their grade point average. Students must contact an academic advisor to initiate this process.

Appeals of Suspension

Appeals of academic suspension due to unusual or extraordinary circumstances can be made to the Director of Student Advising and Support Services before the first day of the suspended quarter.

Reinstatement After Suspension

A suspended student may petition for readmission to the College after a waiting period of at least one quarter. The student must contact advising at least two (2) weeks prior to the beginning of the quarter that the student wants to attend. Prior to the readmission appointment, the student must submit a readmission essay and success plan that includes:

• The student’s short-term educational goals
• Specific plans to overcome barriers and improve the student’s academic progress
• Proposed course schedule

The Retention Specialist or Director of Student Advising and Support Services will review the readmission documents with the student and outline specific conditions that the student must meet for reinstatement. If approved, the student will continue on Academic Intervention status Level II until both their cumulative and quarterly GPAs are above 2.0. Notification will be sent to the student outlining conditions of readmission.

If a student receives a quarterly GPA of below 2.0 after reinstatement during the first Term of their probationary period, the student will be dismissed for 1-year. Re-admitted students will continue on Academic Intervention until they reach satisfactory academic progress (cumulative 2.00 GPA).

Student Tools

• Success Plan
• Petition for Readmission

Cascadia welcomes the use of research activities on campus conducted by students, faculty, staff, or administrators. Research is used to learn more about scientific methods, to advance knowledge in specific areas or disciplines, and to provide useful information for the college.

The college’s research policy outlines how proposals to conduct research will be reviewed and under what conditions they will be approved. To request a copy of the policy, please contact the Director of Institutional Research and Assessment.

The purpose is to provide students an opportunity to express and resolve any misunderstanding and to address the perception of unfair treatment by a college faculty or staff member.

Cascadia expects that all students will conduct themselves as responsible members of the college community both on campus and while attending off-campus activities. Cascadia has adopted policies governing student conduct, including disciplinary procedures for resolving conflicts related to student discipline. To learn more, visit the website for the relevant chapter of the Washington Administrative Code

Informal Procedure

• A student shall first discuss it directly with the individual to clarify the perceived concern/issue and request specific action. The student may request the appropriate Dean or area administrator to serve as a mediator to help resolve the concern/issue.

Formal Procedure

In the event resolution is not achieved through the informal procedure, a student may initiate a formal procedure by writing a letter to the appropriate dean or unit administrator within twenty working days after the incident. The letter must include:

• Detailed description of the issue/concern, including dates and times;
• Summary of the actions taken by the student to resolve the concern/issue; and
• Proposed solution.

The unit administrator or designee handling the case will notify the student in writing of the decision within ten working days.

Cascadia College complies with the reporting requirements of the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1998 and the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of Amendments of 1989 and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crimes Statistics Act of 1998.

In compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act (EDGAR 34 CFR, Part 86), Cascadia annually distributes the following information to students and staff:

• Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school property or as part of school activities
• Cascadia’s Student Code of Conduct Washington Administrative Code WAC 132Z-115-090, (10) prohibits students from, “The possession, use, sale, or distribution of any alcoholic beverage or illegal drug on the college campus; or while attending a college-sponsored event on non-college property”
• Administrative Procedure 6.3.110.08 prohibits employees from manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, possessing, or using a controlled substance
• Cascadia maintains a referral list of agencies and individuals providing support services to students struggling with drug and/or alcohol use/abuse. Such referrals can be accessed by contacting the Kodiak Corner front counter at (425) 352-8860.
• A description of the applicable legal sanctions and disciplinary actions
• Cascadia’s Student Code of Conduct (WAC 132Z-115-070) states that “Students may be accountable both to civil authorities and to the college for acts that constitute violations of law and of this code. Disciplinary action at the college will normally proceed during the pendency of criminal proceedings and will not be subject to challenge on the ground that criminal charges involving the same incident have been dismissed or reduced.” Aside from any criminal proceedings, the college may impose sanctions ranging from a verbal warning to dismissal, as outlined in WAC 132Z-115-120, (4).
• Administrative procedure 6.3.110.08 outlines the sanctions for employees found to have violated provisions of the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act. The policy reads, “Violation of this policy will be reason for disciplinary action up to and including dismissal, or for mandatory evaluation treatment for substance abuse.”
• A description of any drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation/re-entry programs
• Administrative procedure 6.3.110.08 states that “Cascadia College recognizes drug use and/or dependency to be a health, safety, and security problem,” and offers employees assistance through the State Employee Advisory Services and/or employee medical insurance plans

Student Misconduct

Cascadia College expects that its students while within college facilities or attending a college-sponsored activity, will adhere to high standards of honor and good citizenship and that they will conduct themselves in a responsible manner that reflects credit on themselves and the college. The following misconduct is subject to disciplinary action:

Drugs and Alcohol Policy

The possession, use, sale or distribution of any alcoholic beverage or illegal drug on the college campus or while attending a college-sponsored event on non-college property. Students may be accountable both to civil authorities and to the college for acts that constitute violations of law and of this code. Disciplinary action at the college will normally proceed during the pendency of criminal proceedings and will not be subject to challenge on the ground that criminal charges involving the same incident have been dismissed or reduced. Additionally, students should be aware that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) has given colleges/universities the option to notify parents/guardians about specific types of information from a student's judicial record, including alcohol or other drug offenses. Therefore, at the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer, such parental notification may be made if students under the age of 21 are found responsible of violating the college’s policies concerning alcohol and other drugs.

Sanctions for Alcohol and Other Drug Violations

Aside from any criminal proceedings, the college may impose sanctions ranging from a verbal warning to dismissal, as outlined in WAC 132Z-115-035. When determining appropriate sanctions, the findings of fact, any particular circumstances, and prior record of the student will be factors considered. Students who are suspended from Cascadia College for any length of time should be aware that this action may impact the following:

• Tuition and fees (suspension does not forgive financial obligations)
• Student Financial Aid
• Health Insurance (contact your personal health care provider)
• Use of college resources and access to college facilities
• Immigration status for international students
• Veterans and dependents of veterans
• Internships, assistantships, and study abroad

This is not an exhaustive list

Criminal Sanctions

Federal sanctions for the illegal possession of drugs include imprisonment up to 1 year and/or a minimum fine of $1,000 for a first conviction; imprisonment for 15 days-2 years and a minimum fine of $2,500 for a second drug conviction; and imprisonment for 90 days-3 years and a minimum fine of $5,000 for a third or subsequent drug conviction. For possession of a mixture or substance which contains a cocaine base, federal sanctions include 5-20 years in prison and a minimum fine of $1,000, for a first conviction if the mixture or substance exceeds 5 grams, for a second conviction if the mixture or substance exceeds 3 grams, and for a third or subsequent conviction if the mixture or substance exceeds 1 gram. Additional possible penalties for the illegal possession of drugs are forfeiture of real or personal property used to possess or to facilitate possession of a controlled substance if the offense is punishable by more than 1 year imprisonment; forfeiture of vehicles, boats, aircraft, or any other conveyance used, or intended for use, to transport or conceal drugs; civil fine up to $10,000 per violation; denial of federal benefits, such as student loans, grants, contracts, and professional and commercial licenses for up to 1 year for a first and up to 5 years for a second or subsequent offense; successful completion of a drug treatment program; community service; and ineligibility to receive or purchase a firearm.

Washington law prohibits the purchase or possession of alcohol by a person under the age of 21, or the furnishing of alcohol to such a person. Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs also is illegal. It is against state law, under certain circumstances, to walk or be upon a roadway while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. The punishment for these offenses may include imprisonment, payment of a fine, mandatory treatment and education programs, community service, and mandatory loss of one’s driver’s license.

Counseling and Treatment Resources

A variety of off-campus counseling services and treatment centers are available throughout the state for anyone experiencing problems related to substance abuse. A list of several of those referral agencies is available from Student Advising & Support Services (located in the Kodiak Corner student success center). Although most counseling and treatment centers charge for their services, some programs are free of charge.

While off-campus resources can be very good options, a great place to start for any student who desires confidential assistance with alcohol or other drugs is the Student Counseling Center located on campus.

Counseling services are available to any student who is struggling with issues including family conflict, divorce, substance abuse, depression, grief and loss, and anxiety about academic achievement. Counseling is confidential, professional, and free.

Cascadia College students who are enrolled for the current quarter in session may receive up to 6 free counseling sessions of individual counseling per academic year. Cascadia College students are also eligible to participate in Counseling Center groups which lasts 4 - 10 weeks. Enrollment in Counseling Center classes and groups do not count toward the 6 session yearly limit.

Health Risks

The following information on health risks is from What Works: Schools Without Drugs, U.S. Department of Education (1992): "Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.

Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver. Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation [sic]. In addition, research indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at greater risk than other youngsters of becoming alcoholics."

Contacts

For additional information regarding:

• Health risks or counseling and treatment resources for students, contact the Counseling Center, 425-352-3183.
• The college’s policies on alcohol and other drugs as they pertain to students, contact the Student Conduct Officer, 425-352-8288.

Informal Process

A student initiates the grade appeal process by speaking to the instructor. Please note, in the event that the instructor is no longer employed by the college or is away for an extended period of time, the Dean for Student Learning will appoint two faculty members to review the student's work and the grade that is under appeal. The grade can only be changed upon the recommendation of both faculty members. If there is no agreement, the grade shall remain as rewarded.

Formal Process

If the informal resolution is not reached, the student can initiate a formal grade appeal by submitting a completed grade appeal form to the Dean for Student Learning a week prior to the end of the quarter.

The Dean has ten (10) business days in which to discuss the situation with the instructor and the student. The Dean for Student Learning has another ten (10) business days following the discussion to make a written recommendation to the student which may include:

• To deny the request for a change of grade.
• To move forward with grade appeal and convene the Hearing Committee.
• If the Dean for Student Learning convenes the Hearing Committee, the decision of the Hearing Committee shall be final.

Appeal of the Dean for Student Learning's Decision to Deny a Grade Change

Submit a written appeal to the Vice President for Student Learning & Success and include reasons for the appeal. The Vice President has ten (10) business days following receipt of the appeal to review the documents and meet with the student. After the meeting, the Vice President has another ten (10) business days to make a written recommendation to the student which may include:

• To uphold the decision of the Dean and deny the request which will end the appeal process.
• To move forward with the grade appeal and convene a Hearing Committee

If the recommendation is to have a Grade Appeal Hearing Committee convene, the Vice President will review the procedures of the Hearing Committee with the student.

Hazing is prohibited within the Cascadia College community. Hazing is any conduct committed as part of aperson’s recruitment, initiation, pledging, admission into, or affiliation with a student organization, athletic team, or living group (collectively “student groups”) or any pastime or amusement engaged in with respect to such a student group that causes, or is likely to cause, bodily danger or physical harm, or serious psychological or emotional harm, to any student or other person attending Cascadia College, including causing, directing,coercing, or forcing a person to consume any food, liquid, alcohol, drug, or other substance which subjects the person to risk of such harm, regardless of the person's willingness to participate.

All campus crime statistics are available to the public. Cascadia complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act of 1998 by reporting the joint Cascadia College/University of Washington Bothell campus crime statistics. View the statistics at University of Washington Bothell's Safety webpage.

Governance

Cascadia College is a public post-secondary education institution, accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Cascadia is governed by the Washington State Board of Community and Technical Colleges. Also see Cascadia College governance for additional information.

Register a Complaint

In compliance with the Cascadia Academic Policies, course complaints and grade challenges follow the same procedure:

• All complaints begin with the informal process of working with the instructor
• If a resolution cannot be resolved with the informal process, the formal process of working with the Deans of Student Learning begins.

The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) has authority to investigate student complaints against specific schools. WSAC may not be able to investigate every student complaint. Visit WSAC complaint process for information.

The Student Complaint Information by State and Agency can be found at State Higher Education Officers Association State Authorization Surveys.

Regulation

Cascadia’s accreditation agency, internal complaint procedures, and the agencies in each state responsible for complaints regarding out-of-state distance education programs compliance can be found in the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations.

Resolution

Information regarding Cascadia’s internal grievance resolution process can be found in Student Rights and Responsibilities.

Cascadia will close the campus offices and cancel classes if severe weather or other emergency conditions make the campus unsafe. In the event of a closure or and emergency, the college will communicate with you using the following tools:

• Alert (email and/or text) - sign up to receive free alerts
• Social Media
• Website Home Page

Under Public Law 104-208, Cascadia is directed by the federal government to provide the Armed Forces such information as name, address, telephone number, date of birth, level of education, major and/or degree received, and prior military experience for all students.

If you do not wish this information to be released, submit a written request to the front counter in Kodiak Corner. This request will prohibit your name from being published in all college-related publications.

Cascadia students have the right to the support and respect needed for learning and personal development and the responsibility to conduct themselves in a manner that does not interfere with the purposes of the college.

To learn more about student rights and responsibilities, including freedom of expression, academic freedom, and conflict resolution, see Washington Administrative Code Chapter 132Z-112.

The Higher Education Opportunity Act requires institutions to include the ISBN and retail price of all required and recommended textbooks and supplemental materials for each course listed on the schedule. If the ISBN number is unavailable, the institution must disclose the author, title, publisher and copyright date of the text or material instead. If it is not practicable to disclose either the ISBN number or the alternative information, the institution shall place "To Be Determined" on the schedule. This information is available on the Cascadia's quarterly class schedule as "Book Information" listed under each course section.