College Policies | Cascadia College

College Policies

Our College Policies apply universally across the school to uphold our inclusive, positive, and ethical learning environment.

 

College Policies

Student Handbook

Overview

Admission to Cascadia College carries with it the presumption that students will conduct themselves with high standards of academic honesty and integrity.

Hallmarks of academic integrity include:

  • Submitting work that reflects original thoughts and ideas
  • Clearly citing other people’s work when using it to inform your own
  • Seeking permission to use other people’s creative work
  • Fully contributing to group work and projects
  • Students who choose not to uphold the hallmarks of integrity are considered to be engaging in academic dishonesty.

Academic Dishonesty

Defined as any act of course-related dishonesty, including but not limited to cheating, plagiarism and fabrication.

  • Cheating includes any attempt to give or obtain unauthorized assistance relating to the completion of an academic assignment, including collaboration without authority.
  • Plagiarism includes taking and using as one’s own, without proper attribution, the ideas, writings, or work of another person in completing an academic assignment. Prohibited conduct may also include the unauthorized submission for credit of academic work that has been submitted for credit in another course.
  • Fabrication includes falsifying data, information, or citations in completing an academic assignment and also includes providing false or deceptive information to an instructor concerning the completion of an academic assignment

Student Code of Conduct

Any act of cheating and/or plagiarism is strictly prohibited and will be subject to disciplinary action. Where suspected violations of the academic honesty policy occur, appropriate procedures are designed to protect the academic process and integrity while ensuring due process. Students are expected to adhere to guidelines on academic honesty as stated by individual instructors in their course syllabi, provided those guidelines do not contradict policies and procedures established in the Student Code of Conduct. All documented violations of the academic honesty policy will be reported to the Student Conduct Officer, who shall maintain a record of violations. Students who violate the academic honesty policy twice will be placed on Disciplinary Probation. Students who violate the academic honesty policy subsequently (a third time) will be placed on Disciplinary Suspension.

The Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) requires higher education institutions to practice due diligence informing students about copyright infringement risks. All higher education institutions must:

  • Provide an annual disclosure to all students.
  • Implement a plan to effectively combat on-campus network copyright abuse
  • Offer alternatives to illegal downloading.

For more information about acceptable use of technology at Cascadia, please review the Cascadia Acceptable Use Policy.

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

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.

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.

Maximum Attempts in a Class

A student may not enroll in a course more than three times, including attempts resulting in a "W" grade. This rule applies to all credit-bearing classes, including those numbered below 100. However, students may enroll in variable credit courses, such as internship credits, as many times as necessary to complete the entire curriculum and earn the required number of credits. Students facing extenuating circumstances—such as medical or military withdrawals, a required course for a credential with limited or no substitute options, a significant break in enrollment, grade forgiveness, or mandated training for employment—may petition the Director of Student Advising (or their designee) for permission to enroll in a course for a fourth time by completing the online Petition to Exceed Maximum Enrollment Attempts in a Class form.

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:

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.

Article 1: Academic

Policy Name Credit Hours
Policy Number CP 1.11
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals
  • Student Learning Council: 12-11-17
  • Executive Team: 12-13-17
  • Navigators Committee: 2-5-18
  • Legal Counsel: 2-7-18
  • President: 1-22-24
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Credit Hour Policy

Course credit hours are determined by the type of contact hours required for a course and the ratio of those hours to the number of weeks in a quarter.

“Credit hours” are defined as the unit by which an institution measures its course work. The number of credit hours assigned to a course is defined by the number of direct faculty instruction hours per week and/or the number of hours of out-of-class student work.

Total Contact Hours for a Course per Quarter

The total number of contact hours per week (a one-hour period = one contact hour) that a class normally meets, within the categories defined below. One contact hour may include a 5-10 minute break between periods, and class contact hours may be calculated on a 50-minute hour.

Classes scheduled in block mode may count the hours between the start and finish (Example: 8 a.m. to 12 noon = 4 hours; 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. = 1 hour).

Calculating Credit Values

The following titles, definitions, and credit ratios are used in calculating credit values for an 11 week quarter. No additional credit equivalents may be generated by adjusting the length of a quarter.

Category Definition Contact Hrs per Week to Credit Ratio
Lecture/Theory

Students are engaged with faculty and class members in learning theoretical material and/or engaging in activities to apply the theory leading to mastery of course outcomes.

Modes of instructional delivery could include but are not limited to: lecture, small group discussion, guided conversation, demonstration, case studies, role playing, problem-based inquiry, and collaborative activities. Instruction may be a mix of presentation, facilitation, and guided activities evidenced by frequent ongoing communication between instructor and students. Such activities could take place in a variety of instructional modalities.

1:1
Credit Hours

One credit is generated by one weekly contact hour of instruction or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time. Generally requires out-of-class student effort, typically two hours per class hour.

Eleven classroom contact hours, including final examinations generate one credit hour at Cascadia.

Laboratory/Guided Practice

Students are actively engaged in practicing and mastering skills under the supervision of the instructor.

This category of instruction could include but are not limited to labs, studios, shops, clinical experiences, computer-mediated learning, hands-on projects, or other skill building activities. Instruction may be individualized or group-focused and include skills assessment. Such activities could take place in a variety of instructional modalities.

One credit is generated by two weekly contact hours of instruction or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time. May also include out-of-class student effort, typically one hour per two class hours.

Twenty-two contact hours generate one credit hour at Cascadia.

2:1
Field-Based Experience/Work Site

Students are engaged in autonomous study or related work activity under the intermittent supervision of the instructor. This mode includes working with, or under the direction of professional practitioners and may include preceptorships, co-ops, internships, or service learning activities.

In the case of worksite education experiences, the learning activity must be based on a written agreement (LTA Learning Template Agreement) between the student, faculty advisor, and worksite supervisor. Students are required to record hours worked. Students must also maintain contact with the faculty advisor and submit reflections as specified in the LTA. One credit is generated by three weekly contact hours of instruction. These experiences can be paid or unpaid.

Thirty-three instructional hours generate one credit hour at Cascadia.

3:1

This definition is in compliance with the NWCCU Credit Hour Policy and federal credit hour definition set forth in Section 600.2 and 600.24.

Federal regulations mandate that all candidate and accredited institutions comply with the definition of the credit hour as set forth in Section 600.2, which defines the credit hour as:

Except as provided in 34 CFR 668.8(k) and (l)*, a credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:

  1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time; or
  2. At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
Policy Name College Admissions Standards
Policy Number CP 1.12
Board Policy Reference BP03.4.10
Approvals
  • President: 2/20/08
  • Updated: 11/29/23
Applicable WAC/RCW WAC 131-12-010

College Admissions Standards Policy

Any applicant for admission to Cascadia College shall be admitted when, as determined by the President (or designee), such applicant:

  1. is competent to benefit from course offerings of the college, and
  2. would not, by his or her presence or conduct, create a disruptive atmosphere within the college inconsistent with the purposes of the institution, and
  3. is eighteen (18) years of age or older, or
  4. is a high school graduate (includes GED equivalent) or
  5. is eligible and has applied for admission under the provisions of a student enrollment options program such as Running Start or a successor program, or other local student enrollment options program.

Any applicant transferring from another institution of higher education who meets the above criteria, but who is not in good standing at the time of his or her transfer may be conditionally admitted on a probation status as determined by the chief admission officer.

In addition:

High school students, 9th -12th grade level status who are not Running Start students, if they qualify, may take courses with written approval of a parent/guardian, a high school official, and with the approval of the college.

For non–credit, student–funded, courses, admission is open to all adult members of the community 18 years or older. Students who are 9th-12th grade status) may be admitted with written permission of a parent/guardian and with approval of the college.

Special Programs may be developed in response to community needs/interests. In such cases, the college will develop admissions standards appropriate to the program.

Policy Name Attendance – Student Holidays for Reasons of Faith and Conscience
Policy Number CP 1.13
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals
  • Executive Team: 1/22/24
  • College Advisory Council: 1/24/24
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Attendance – Student Holidays for Reasons of Faith and Conscience

The College shall establish procedures that will ensure the accommodation of student absences for reasons of faith or conscience or for organized activities conducted until the auspices of a religious denomination, church or religious organization.

Article 2: Facilities

Policy Name College Equipment
Policy Number CP 2.11
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals President: 11/16/09
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

College Equipment Policy

The College shall develop procedures to govern the purchasing of new college equipment. The College shall develop and fund an Equipment Replacement Plan to address the changing educational and operational needs of the institution. The Finance Office shall be responsible for the development of procedures governing the purchase of new college equipment. The Vice President of Administrative Services shall be responsible for the development of the Equipment Replacement Plan.

Policy Name Inventory
Policy Number CP 2.12
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals President: 11/16/09
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Inventory Policy

The College shall develop procedures to inventory college equipment and the procedures shall include a means for updating the college inventory and rules regarding the disposal of college property. The Finance Office shall be responsible for the development of inventory procedures.

Policy Name Naming of Buildings, Facilities, Campus Areas and Non-Physical Assets
Policy Number CP 2.13
Board Policy Reference Naming of Buildings, Facilities, Campus Areas Events
Approvals
  • Executive Team: 3/28/18
  • Navigators Council: 5/7/18
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A
Procedure Number AP10: 3.10.01 (under revision Foundation)

Name of Buildings, Facilities, Campus Areas and Non-Physical Assets Policy

Cascadia College acknowledges the importance of, and endorses, commemorating significant contributions to the College through naming opportunities. This policy establishes uniform rules for identifying and obtaining college approval for naming college assets. The College Board of Trustees (hereby known as the “College”) and the Cascadia College Foundation (hereby known as the “Foundation”) shall jointly administer the philanthropic naming of College assets as well as any related recognition and marketing activities. The College shall administer honorary and non-philanthropic naming of College assets and their related recognition and marketing activities.

Naming opportunities serve an important role in Cascadia’s development efforts – and may represent some of its largest funding opportunities. Additionally, honorees receive the highest levels of recognition the College can bestow. It publicly associates the name of an individual or organization with Cascadia College and to qualities it considers admirable. As highly visible activities, all who are involved must treat them with discretion, thoughtfulness, and sincere care for how it will be viewed in retrospect. Such actions shall 1) be consistent with the interests of the College, 2) ensure that the value of a contribution warrants the proposed recognition and 3) maintain naming opportunity parity for eligible contributions.

Proposals for “philanthropic” naming of a College asset – be it physical, non-physical, permanent, semi-permanent, or temporary, whether existing, new, or under construction, development or proposed – shall be submitted in writing to the Foundation Board of Directors for review and initial approval. Final approval is required by the College’s Board of Trustees.

The Foundation shall execute related gift instruments and/or agreements, and shall maintain official records of all proposed and approved “philanthropic” named assets and related gift agreements.

The College shall be solely responsible for activity related to the establishment, formation, construction, improvement, and/or installation of any named asset.

Naming Guidelines

Names should be based on the eminence of the donor and/or the donor’s relationship to the College. The credentials, character, and reputation of each individual being considered shall be appropriately scrutinized.

Specific name(s) or text may be reserved with a properly executed pledge agreement with the Foundation.

The proposed name should not readily lend itself to unwanted abbreviations, acronyms, or nicknames.

College assets shall not be named for individuals while they are employed by the College. Facilities may be named for such persons no earlier than five years following the conclusion of their relationship.

Donor/Sponsor interests regarding the size, location and format of plaques, signs or other visible forms of recognition, shall be considered whenever possible.

A building may be named in its entirety. Its shell – or exterior – as well as distinct interior components may be named separately. Interior components within a building may be named with the same surname. No asset may be assigned more than one name simultaneously.

To avoid the appearance of blatant advertising, commercial influence or conflict of interest, names of corporations shall not be attached to buildings or major campus features. Corporate names may be used to designate individual rooms and public spaces within buildings. The size, design, and wording should avoid slogans, tag lines or other marketing content, and exclude corporate logos.

Building signage will typically reflect only the surname of the honoree or donor. In addition, a suitable plaque, brick, tile or other semi-permanent, low-profile sign, engraving, installation, ornamentation, or academically-related furnishing or fixture may be located in the lobby or other appropriate interior location, giving the full name and a brief biography of the person.

Equipping or furnishing a classroom, lab, or other space may be commemorated by plaque or alternative means within or adjacent to the equipment or space. Such recognition shall not constitute the "naming" of the space. When the equipment or furnishing becomes outdated, dysfunctional or is retired, the recognition shall be withdrawn.

Recognition shall conform to College policy and design standards related to campus signage, graphics and the campus master plan.

Naming of events and conferences in exchange for endorsements, sponsorships & advertising constitute exchange transactions – and as such are subject to separate college policy.

Naming Proposals and Agreements

Naming proposals and their corresponding gift agreements shall:

  • Outline the merits, significant contribution(s) and/or accomplishments of the namesake,
  • Provide a narrative justification as to why commemoration is warranted,
  • Describe the manner and/or value of the gift, contribution, sponsorship, pledge,
  • If known, propose the specific College asset(s) to be named and the official name(s) and alternate name(s) to be used,
  • Provide estimates, or if known, the actual amounts of associated costs,
  • Include the date when the naming will expire – if applicable,
  • Include a record of applicable deliberations and Action of the College and Foundation Boards
  • Be signed by the College president, Foundation executive director when appropriate, and donor(s).

Solicitation of Naming Opportunities

No Foundation or College representative shall make a commitment concerning naming opportunities except as provided in this policy.

Cancelling and Renaming Assets

The College, at its discretion may cancel and terminate a naming agreement immediately upon discovery of a violation of any term, condition, or provision of the gift agreement or College policy. Changes in a donor's reputation may call for outright cancellation, should the continued use of the name compromise the public trust, bring dishonor to the College or Foundation, or be contrary to the best interests of the College or Foundation. Names of individuals, and/or their surnames, and names of organizations subject to cancelation, shall be advised of the specific nature of the termination in writing.

Where the use or purpose of an asset is changed or the asset expires, is altered or otherwise no longer serves the purpose for which it was, at the time of the naming, established, built or procured, the College Board of Trustees, in its sole discretion, may transfer naming rights in like scope to a new or comparable asset, and instruct the Foundation to amend or terminate the naming opportunity agreement when appropriate.

In the event of a renaming, and where appropriate, recognition of prior namesakes shall be considered – including plaques or other installations adjacent to the replacement or redeveloped asset, as applicable.

The College shall not cancel and/or rename named assets established by philanthropic naming opportunity agreement without the Foundation’s prior written consent. The Foundation shall have no liability for unfulfilled pledges nor financial responsibility for returning any received contributions.

Definitions

Namesake Eligibility

Individuals, families, groups, businesses, corporations, etc., shall merit recognition in the eyes of the College by demonstrating a commitment to the high ideals and mission of the College; and/or have achieved prominence in their field, and/or earned special distinction through civic leadership, intellectual and/or artistic contributions to the benefit of the College, the region served by the College, the State of Washington, and/or the nation. A donor whose gift has significantly financed the creation of a College asset and/or who has significantly supported the College through one-time or cumulative contributions.

Eligible Naming Opportunities

Philanthropic naming opportunities are limited to a preapproved list of College-owned assets. The list shall be established and maintained at the College’s discretion and incorporated into the Foundation’s Gift Acceptance policy. Each asset shall be available until it is named, expires, is altered or otherwise no longer serves the purpose for which it was established, built or procured, is removed, dissolved, sold, abandoned, decommissioned, surplused, or destroyed.

Other opportunities, when proposed, may – at the College’s discretion – receive special consideration.

Eligible Contributions, Service, Earned Distinction

Naming is a form of donor recognition; opportunities are not intended to reflect actual or total replacement cost of an asset; nor does it restrict where or how the subject contribution is, or contributions are, designated. Eligible gifts should not replace existing state funds allocated to the asset, service or program – and shall not burden the College with maintenance and other opportunity costs that exceed the gift’s capacity, or College’s willingness and/or ability, to pay for them.

All proposed gifts, contributions and pledges are subject to Cascadia College Foundation policies and procedures. Eligible contributions subject to this policy shall include:

  • Major financial gifts
  • Significant contribution of time, work product, and/or talent,
  • Distinguished service from College employee, friend of the College or Foundation, or member of the community
  • Special distinction of individual or entity with regional and/or national, favorable notoriety that merits formal commemoration by the College

One-Time and cumulative giving shall be considered when considering naming opportunities.

Donations made to develop, construct, or procure a specific asset must be realized in full within five years of the commitment. At least 20 percent of the gift amount must be received before implementation, creation, installation or groundbreaking commences. Projects shall commence only when approved by the College. If cancelled, the Foundation will work with affected donors to identify alternate purposes for their support – or facilitate a refund of contributions made.

Philanthropic Naming

Recognition of eligible gifts and/or in-kind contributions of the highest order, made to the Foundation, intended to enhance the College.

Honorary/Non-Philanthropic Naming

Commemoration of an individual, family or organization by the College Board of Trustees for efforts which merit distinction as described in this policy are allowed with Board of Trustees approval.

Physical/Permanent Asset

Structure or campus feature owned by the College; such as:

  • Exterior component — building, building shell, work of art, open space, street, promenade, park, garden, or path, etc.
  • Interior component — floor, hall, area, room, lab, lounge, work space, athletic facility, courtyard, etc., or academically-related equipment or furnishing permanently allocated, or work of art installed or affixed.
Non-Physical/Temporary Asset

Intended to transform the nature of a department or program by establishing an academically-related position, program of study, student service, endowment fund, scholarship, conducting special event(s)(lecture, seminar, performance, etc.), or providing small academically-related equipment and/or devices not considered permanent.

Policy Name Campus Closure
Policy Number CP 2.14
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals
  • Executive Team
  • College Advisory Council
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Campus Closures and Emergency Notifications Policy

Cascadia College may close campus offices and cancel classes in-person classes when severe weather or emergency conditions pose safety risks. In the event of a closure or emergency, the college will communicate updates promptly using multiple tools: email and text alerts (sign-up required), social media platforms, and the college’s website home page. Students, employees, and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and prepared by monitoring these official channels for timely notifications.

The following definitions are used for such events:

Suspended Operations Regular on-site campus operations are cancelled for the day or the remainder thereof. Events on campus are cancelled. Please check the emergency communications for details. Instruction and campus services may be offered online. Essential personnel (employees designated as providing essential service by their supervisor) will be notified if required to report to work.
Delayed Opening/Start On-site activities occurring before the determined opening time, such as in-person instruction, are cancelled, but activities beginning after the opening time may continue as scheduled. Please check the emergency communications for details. Essential personnel (employees designated as providing essential service by their supervisor) will be notified if required to report to work.

Unrepresented/non-union employees must make every attempt to either connect remotely to complete work during suspended operations or engage in a supervisor-approved course of professional development during such closures. Should neither of these be available, an unrepresented employee must use accrued leave time or leave without pay.

For WPEA employees, please refer to your applicable CBA.

Faculty must make every attempt to 1) continue instruction during suspended operations according to their pivot plans, 2) demonstrate work on other related assignments, or 3) engage in a supervisor-approved course of professional development during such closures. Should none of these be available, faculty must use accrued leave time or leave without pay.

Policy Name Safety Reporting Clery Act
Policy Number CP 2.15
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals
  • Executive Team
  • College Advisory Council: 2-3-25
Applicable WAC/RCW Federal Clery Act of 1990

Campus Safety and Security Policy

Cascadia College is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all students, employees, and visitors. In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the college provides public access to campus crime statistics in collaboration with the University of Washington Bothell. These statistics, along with related safety policies, are available on the University of Washington Bothell's Safety webpage. Cascadia College also continually evaluates and updates safety practices to align with the highest standards for campus security and emergency preparedness.

Article 3: Finance

Policy Name Accounts Receivable
Policy Number CP 3.11
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals President: 11/16/09
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Accounts Receivable Policy

AP1: 3.50.01

The College shall establish procedures to manage accounts receivable in a manner consistent with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, the current State Administrative Accounting Manual (SAAM) and other relevant Federal and State rules and regulations. The Finance Office shall be responsible for the development of accounts receivable procedures.

Policy Name Budget Authority
Policy Number CP 3.12
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals President: 11/16/09
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Budget Authority Policy

AP7 3.20.01

The College shall establish procedures to delegate the authority for the expenditure of College funds to individuals as appropriate. The College shall maintain an ongoing record of individuals with expenditure authorization authority. The Finance Office shall be responsible for the development of procedures managing the delegation of budget authority.

Article 4: Technology

Article 5: Human Resources

Article 6: Other

College Policy Signature Policy
Policy Number CP 6.11
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals
  • Executive Team 1/1/25
  • College Advisory Council 1/1/25
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Signature Policy

Many administrative tasks need to be approved and signed on behalf of Cascadia College. This procedure designates who, within the college, is authorized to sign and approve documents on behalf of the college. Items requiring signature that are not addressed by this list must be submitted to the President for approval or delegated authority.

Designated Authority Chart

Transaction Authority
Hiring approval: full time employees President
Hiring approval: part‐time (less than 50% FTE) Vice Presidents
Accepting resignation Vice President, with notification to President
Termination President
Purchase less than $5,000 Budget authority
Purchase more than $5,000 Vice President
Meals/light refreshment forms Budget authority and Vice President
Travel Authorization/ in state Supervisor or budget authority
Travel Authorization / out of state President or Vice President; supervisor or budget authority
Time and Leave reporting Supervisor or designee
Annual employment contracts President via electronic signature
Union Collective Bargaining Agreement Classified‐Office of Financial Management (consortium) and President Faculty‐Board of Trustees
Union Memorandums of Understanding
  • Classified: OFM and President
  • Faculty: President or designated management representative
  • Exempt: President or designated management representative
Grant Applications under $25,000 Grants office and Vice President AS
Grant Applications over $25,000 Grants office and President
Grant acceptance over $25,000 Grants Office and President
Purchases over $10,000 to $24,999 Vice President AS or Director of AS; and Controller
Purchases over $25,000 Vice President AS and President
Leases President and Vice President AS
Interagency agreements Vice President and President
Petty cash Budget authority
Procurement (credit) cards Transaction: authorized user Monthly reports: budget authority; Vice President (over $5,000)
College Policy Hazing Prevention Policy
Policy Number CP 6.12
Board Policy Reference N/A
Approvals College Advisory Council 1/1/25
Applicable WAC/RCW N/A

Hazing Prevention Policy Statement Cascadia College

Hazing is prohibited within the Cascadia College community. Hazing is any conduct committed as part of a person’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.

"Hazing" does not include customary athletic events or other similar contests or competitions.

This prohibition applies to conduct that may occur both on and off campus.

In compliance with 2SHB 1751 (2022), the College will implement procedures and programs, including offering students and employees hazing prevention training and programming, implementation of a mandatory reporting procedure, creation of a hazing prevention committee, and publication of a hazing report.

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