STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-2025

EAST MISSISSIPPI COMMUNITY COLLEGE

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2024-2025

Family Educational Rights and Privacy ACT (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords all students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records to include students enrolled in distance learning. They are:

·         The right to inspect and review the student’s education records.

Students should submit to the Campus Dean of Students a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to review. The Dean of Students will make arrangements for access and notify the student within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access of the time and place where the records may be reviewed.

·         The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading.

Students may ask EMCC to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the Dean of Students, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If EMCC decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, EMCC will notify the student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

·         The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by EMCC as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the East Mississippi Board of Trustees; or a person or company with whom EMCC has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist).

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request from officials of another school or college in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, EMCC may disclose educational records without consent. Disciplinary actions affecting attendance is included in the student’s record.

EMCC may also disclose, without consent, directory information regarding its students. Directory information means information contained in an education record of a student which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. It includes, but is not limited to the student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height or members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended. Directory information may not include race, gender, Social Security Number, student identification number, ethnicity, or nationality.

The student has the right to refuse to let EMCC designate any or all types of information about the student as directory information.

The student must notify the Dean of Students in writing within 14 days of receipt of this notice that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information about the student designated as directory information.

EMCC may disclose directory information about former students without meeting these conditions.

·         A parent or guardian of a student over the age of 18 may access the student’s educational records if the student is claimed as a dependent for Federal income tax purposes.  If the student is claimed as a dependent on one parent’s Federal Income taxes, access may then be granted to both the parent who claims the student as well as the parent who is not claiming the student.  The parent may review the student’s record but may not act on the student’s behalf except in emergency situations.

To access the student’s records, the parent must complete a Parental Request for Academic Information which may be provided by the Registrar upon parental request.

·         A parent may access student information if the student is over 18 years of age and the student is not being claimed by either parent for Federal income tax purposes only if the student is willing to release the information.  The parent may review the student’s record but may not act on the student’s behalf except in emergency situations.

For a parent to access student information when the student is over 18 years of age and is not being claimed by either parent on Federal Income taxes, the student must complete a Student Consent for Release of Records which may be provided by the Registrar upon student request.

·         Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the college to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

600 Independence Avenue, S.W.

Washington, D.C. 20202-46058

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

STUDENT RIGHTS

When students choose to accept admission to EMCC, they accept the rights and responsibilities of membership in the College’s academic and social community.   Students are expected to uphold the College’s values by maintaining a high standard of conduct.  EMCC students have the same rights and protections under the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Mississippi as other citizens.  As members of the EMCC community, students have the right to express their own views, but must also take responsibility for according the same right to others.   Students have the right to be treated fairly and with dignity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status protected by state or federal law. EMCC is committed to providing students with a balanced and fair system of dispute resolution.  Students are entitled to appropriate due process protections in all dispute resolutions.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Along with rights come certain responsibilities.  Students at EMCC are expected to act consistently with the values of the College community and to obey all laws.  Students have responsibilities to themselves, to others, and to the world around them.  To uphold the shared values of the EMCC community, students are expected to:

Embrace learning:  The faculty and staff are committed to students’ academic success.  In turn, they expect each student’s best efforts and dedication to work, through class participation, active involvement in academic and extracurricular programs, and through the productive use of educational resources.

Commit to civil behavior:  All members of the College are expected to respect others and their differences.  Students should respect the College, its reputation, and their physical surroundings.  Students need to recognize their duties as members of the EMCC campus, the EMCC district, the State of Mississippi, the United States, and the global community.

Enhance personal development:  An EMCC education should develop students’ ability to function as a contributing member of society.  Service to others is a hallmark of EMCC and students are urged to enhance their own growth through volunteerism.

OWNERSHIP OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

This policy applies to all EMCC employees, students, and partnerships with external agencies into which the College enters.  EMCC encourages the development, writing, invention, or production of intellectual property designed to improve the productivity of the College, enhance the teaching and learning environment, and contribute to the betterment of the community.  Intellectual property includes but is not limited to intellectual and creative works that can be copyrighted or patented, such as literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, computer software, multimedia presentations, and inventions. EMCC employees and students own all rights to copyrightable or patentable independent works created by that person without College support.  Unless otherwise provided in a rights agreement, the College owns all rights to a copyrightable or patentable work created with College support.

In all cases, the EMCC Board of Trustees reserves the right to enter into contractual agreements for the ownership of intellectual property on the President’s recommendation.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT

Unless otherwise indicated, materials in a course, including audio and visual lectures, are protected by copyright law. Materials are presented in an educational context for students’ personal use and study and should not be shared, distributed, or sold in print-or digitally-outside the course without permission. 

As a student, your ability to post, link to, share, or otherwise distribute course materials is also governed by copyright law. Students may post or link to course materials within the course environment when pertinent to course work. The university reserves the right to take corrective or disciplinary action consistent with the Student Code of Conduct if materials are used, posted, linked to or otherwise distributed outside the course environment or in an inappropriate manner. 

For further information on the guidelines related to this topic, consult the EMCC Policies and Procedures manual.

CAMPUS SERVICES AND RESOURCES

Listed by office or department are services and resources available on each campus 

Scooba Campus Switch Board:

662-476-5000

Golden Triangle Switch Board:

662-243-1900    

Accessibility Resource Services:

662-243-1979

accessibilityservices@eastms.edu

Business Office:

(SC -F. R. Young Student Union, 662-476- 5443)

(GT-Student Union, 662-243- 2606)              

• Student Accounts       
• Parking Decals            
• Student ID’s

Director of Athletics:

(SC-Davis Building, 662-476-5062)              

Athletic Activities

Library:

(SC -Tubbs Library, 662-476-5055)

(GT- Fisher Building, 662-243-1914)            

Lion Central (Registrar, Admissions & Financial Aid):

(SC- F.R. Young Student Union, 662-476-5041) (GT-Student Union, 662-243-1920)        

• Admission Questions
• Admission Application
• Loans, Grants, Aid     
• Scholarships                
• Work Study
• Transcripts
• Enrollment verifications
• Student records

Title IX:

123 FR Young Student Union
Scooba, MS 39358

Phone: 662.476.5443
Email: titleix@eastms.edu 

Confidential Campus Resources of Support
College Nurse       662.476.5103
Non-Confidential Resources of Support
Title IX Coordinator       662.476.5443
Scooba Campus Dean of Students     662.476.5062
Golden Triangle Dean of Students     662.243.1979
Lion Hills Director       662.329.6742
Communiversity Director      662.243.1929
West Point Center Director      662.243.2644
Scooba Campus Police      662.386.8011
GT Campus Police       662.243.1990

Law Enforcement
Emergency Assistance 911

Off Campus Law Enforcement
Kemper County Sheriff Department    601.743.4880
Lauderdale County Sheriff Department    601.482.9806
Meridian Police Department     601.485.1893
Noxubee County Sheriff Department    662.726.5133
Macon City Police Department     662.726.5847
Lowndes County Sheriff Department    662.328.788
Columbus Police Department     662.244.3500
Oktibbeha County Sheriff Department    662.323.2421
Starkville Police Department     662.323.4134
Clay County Sheriff Department     662.494.2896
West Point Police Department     662.494.1244

Medical and Counseling
Mississippi State Coalition Against Sexual Assault 888.987.9011
Wesley House Community Center     601.485.4736
Care Lodge        601.693.4673
East MS Sexual Assault Center, Inc.    601.485.2828
Sexual Assault Victim Services     866.331.9474
Text “loveis” to 77054
R.A.I.N.N. (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network)  800.656.4673
24-Hour Rape Crisis Hotline     800-656-HOPE (4673)
National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) 877-739-3895 TTY: 717-909-0715

Student Centers

Scooba Campus - Hours are ordinarily 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. weekdays and Sundays 12:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

Golden Triangle Campus - Hours are from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. M-F

STUDENT LIFE INFORMATION

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Clubs and organizations are a vital part of the college experience, and students are encouraged to participate. Organizations promote leadership, scholarship and community involvement.

The President, College staff members, and students shall establish regulations for the operation of College-sponsored clubs and organizations that operate for the welfare and the best interest of the students and the College.  College-sponsored clubs and organizations shall be under the direct control of College officials.  Such clubs and organizations shall not deny or be affiliated with any organization that denies membership on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status protected by state or federal law.  In order to charter a club/organization, applicants must complete the application process and gain approval of the President of the SGA, the Dean of Students, and the President of the college before a charter is awarded.

Every College club or organization shall be sponsored by a member of the faculty/staff approved by the Dean of Students.  Every organization must have the approval of the sponsor in advance for the time and place of all meetings and all social and athletic events and other activities of the organization.  All regular meetings shall be held on campus, and the sponsor shall be present throughout such meetings.  All other activities held outside the College or off campus must have the approval of the Dean of Students.  A sponsor or substitute sponsor approved by the Dean of Students shall be present throughout all activities.  Speakers who are neither members of the student body, faculty, or administration of the College must have the approval of the sponsor and the Dean of Students.  The collection or dispersal of College-sponsored club funds shall be in accordance with the regulations set forth by the College. 

The steps to starting a club/organization are as follows:

Step 1:  Complete a Club/Organization Application, which can be found in the Dean of

Students office.

Step 2:  Draft a Club/Organization Constitution in consultation with your sponsor and the “Constitutional Format

Guidelines.”

• Every College-sponsored club shall have a constitution approved by the Student Government and by the Dean of Students.  Such constitution shall be kept on file in the College;
• The constitution shall contain a statement that all members must be students who are presently enrolled in the college;
• The constitution shall contain qualifications for membership.  Such qualifications shall not deny membership because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, political belief or affiliation, or disability;
• The constitution shall contain a statement of the purposes of the club.  The purposes shall not be contrary to the welfare or best interests of the students or the College or in conflict with the authority or responsibilities of the Board and its employees;
• The constitution shall contain a statement that there is no affiliation with any non-College club or with any organization which denies members on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, political belief or affiliation or disability;
• The constitution shall provide that the collection or dispersal of College-sponsored club funds shall be in accordance with the regulations set forth by the College;
• The constitution shall provide that speakers who are neither members of the student body, faculty, or administration of the College must have the approval of the sponsor and Dean of Students.
• Every club shall act only in accordance with its constitution and shall abide by all rules and regulations of the College;
• Every College club, organization, or activity formed to foster the values inherent to ethnic cultures in an effort to recognize ethnic contributions to the American way of life shall promote a policy of open membership.

Step 3:  Submit both the Application and Constitution to the Dean of Students for review.

Step 4:  After review by the Dean of Students and Student Government Association, it will be determined if the purpose of the club and its constitution are in accordance with College Policy, the decision will be made on whether or not the club/organization will receive charter. 

Step 5:  The club’s advisor will be contacted by the Dean of Students with the charter decision.

ART CLUB: The Art Clubs, on EMCC’s Scooba and Golden Triangle campuses, promote creativity and artistic expression among their members. Meetings are open to all students, faculty and staff.

ASSOCIATION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS:  AITP at EMCC’s Golden Triangle campus is the community of IT knowledge focused on empowering the IT profession by evolving its members to their full potential. Its goal is to provide a community network for the members to reach their true potential by providing education programs for advancing technology and business skills, leadership development opportunities, networking, peer mentoring, knowledge sharing, and online resources.

BAND: The Mighty Lion Band performs concerts and halftime shows at football games and participates in many community parades, activities and competitions. The band includes musicians, a Color Guard and the Eastern Belles dance squad.  

BAPTIST STUDENT UNION:  The Baptist Student Union is sponsored by the Mississippi Baptist Convention.  They meet once a week during the lunch hour on the GT Campus.

CHEERLEADER SQUAD: The Cheerleader Squad instills pride and commitment to excellence at the college and in the community. Auditions for the squad are held during the spring semester of each year.

COLLEGIATE DECA: The mission of Delta Epsilon Chi is to serve its diverse international membership as a professional organization, providing leadership and career opportunities to tomorrow’s leaders.  Members of the Golden Triangle’s three chapters must maintain a strong focus in business-related areas such as marketing, management and entrepreneurship.

Concert Choir and Reflection Singers: The EMCC choir is located on both the Scooba campus and the GT Campus, The choirs perform at college and campus events through EMCC’s six-county district, as well as state and regional competitions. The Concert Choir is a large performing ensemble. Reflection Singers is a smaller, more select, group.

E-Sports Club: This organization is for students who wish to play video games at all competitive levels (GT Campus).

FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES: Located on EMCC’s Scooba campus, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes invites faculty, staff, and all students to its weekly fellowship time where members pray, worship, and study discipleship.

FORESTRY CLUB: The Forestry Club at EMCC’s Scooba campus is made up of students in the Forestry Technology Program. Its purpose is to promote forestry and related industries.

GAY STRAIGHT ALLIANCE: The GSA Club is a student-run organization that unites LGBTQ+ and allied youth to build community and organize around issues impacting them in their schools and communities. 

GOLF & TURF MANAGEMENT CLUB:  A student chapter for the Golf/Recreational Turf and Landscape Management Technology programs designed to provide information about career directions and credentials needed to become a turf grass or landscape manager.

MATH AND SCIENCE CLUB:  The Math and Science Club on EMCC’s Scooba Campus is open to all students.  This club promotes an increased knowledge of and a greater interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while developing leadership and service skills.

MASN (MISSISSIPPI ASSOCIATION OF STUDENT NURSES):  MASN is the student branch of the Mississippi Nurses Association.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL HONOR SOCIETY: The National Technical Honor Society at EMCC’s Golden Triangle campus is an internationally recognized program. Members must be enrolled full-time in a career or technical program, earn a 3.25 grade point average in their program coursework, and a 3.0 grade point average for their overall coursework.

PHI BETA LAMBDA: Phi Beta Lambda is a national college organization of students enrolled in business subjects.  It seeks to develop competent, aggressive, business leadership, to increase interest and understanding in the intelligent choice of business occupations and to encourage improvement in scholarship.

PHI THETA KAPPA: Phi Theta Kappa is the official honor society for two-year colleges. It promotes scholarship, develops character, and provides opportunity for the developments of leadership and service skills.

RESIDENT ASSISTANTS: The Resident Assistant (RA) facilitates the social and personal adjustment of students to the residence hall and college. The RA develops a sense of community among residents as members of a floor, residents of a hall, and active participants in the residence life system.  The RA serves as a positive role model to residents and peer staff members. The RA acts as a liaison between residents and the college administration.

SIGMA PHI SIGMA: A national fraternity, the Mu Chapter of Sigma Phi Sigma is open to Funeral Service Technology students at EMCC’s Scooba campus.  Its goals are to promote knowledge, professionalism, and fellowship among service majors.

SKILLSUSA: SkillsUSA is a national organization made up of high school students, college students, and professional members enrolled in training programs in technical, skilled, and service occupations.

STUDENT AMBASSADORS: Student Ambassadors visit high schools and attend college events to encourage potential students to become EMCC Lions. They also represent EMCC at various community functions in the college’s six-county district.

STUDENT CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP: The Student Christian Fellowship on the Scooba campus of East Mississippi Community College is comprised of two groups of students, the Baptist Student Union and Wesley Foundation. The BSU (Baptist Student Union) is sponsored by the Mississippi Baptist Convention. The Wesley Foundations is sponsored by the Methodist church. Students also participate in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION: The Student Government Association enables students to be involved in making decisions that affect campus life.  The SGA takes suggestions from students and interacts with the school administration to help implement new policies.  In addition, they often assist EMCC with special events such as the Reality Fair.

Student Practical Nursing Association: The Student Practical Nursing Association, on the Golden Triangle campus, is a student chapter of the National Federation of Licensed Practice Nurses.  Its purpose is to increase awareness of nursing roles, nursing issues and medical technology through hands-on experiences, educational conferences, guest speakers, and community services.​

STUDENT VOICES: Participation in awareness of and advocacy for the political and financial aspects of the Mississippi community college system, includes networking with elected officials, visits to the state capitol, and representing EMCC at various functions.  Both Scooba and GT have a chapter.

TURF CLUB:  The EMCC Turf Club is the official organization for students interested in turf grass and landscape management careers which promotes credentialing and an exchange of information and ideas between students and the landscape management professionals.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & COMMUNICATION

Scooba Campus:  On the Scooba campus, important announcements and planned activities are posted on bulletin boards in the Food Court, Student Center, Hawkins Career-Technical Building, Gilbert-Anderson Hall, Kemper Hall, allhWomen’s Honors Dorm, John C. Stennis Hall, and through TVs located in the student union lobby. 

Golden Triangle Campus:  At the Golden Triangle Campus, announcements are posted on the bulletin boards in the main hallways and the marquee at the campus entrance.

ROARCast:  EMCC’s emergency alert system is called ROARCast Alert. It is used to communication vital information to students, parents, and staff when there is an emergency on or around campus and what they need to do to be safe.  EMCC will use the ROARCast Alert network to notify subscribed parties of those emergencies.  In the event an alert must be sent, each campus has trained personnel with the ability to initiate the ROARCast Alert system.

Announcements may also be sent via social media, website, text messages, email, LEO, the EMCC internal information website portal and also via WGTC (92.7 FM), which is EMCC’s non-stop, 24/7, on-campus radio station.

Note: Any items posted on bulletin boards must be approved by the administration.

CLUB COMPETITION - SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS

During the school year, students are given the opportunity to leave the school campus-sponsored events or to represent the school in club competitions, intercollegiate sports, or other activities.  Students are expected to abide by all regulations while on campus and while representing the College at off-campus activities. Additional program guidelines must be adhered to if applicable.

CULTURE OF EMCC

Any institution has certain aspects of its activities that make up its unique “culture” or tradition.  The following are some examples:

HOMECOMING:  One of the big events for the College each fall is the week of Homecoming.  Activities are scheduled all week to involve students, faculty, and alumni. The week is culminated with the Annual Homecoming Football Game, crowning of Homecoming royalty, Distinguished Service Award, Alumni of the Year Award, Post-game Reception for Alumni, and annual Alumni meeting.

PROUD TO BE AMERICAN DAY-GT/GOD BLESS AMERICA DAY-SC: A celebration of America and America’s veterans held each November around the time of Veterans’ Day.

BEAUTY AND BEAU REVIEW:  Students each year compete in the Beauty and Beau Review in which poise and appearance determine students chosen for the honors. 

PINE GROVE FESTIVAL:  Each spring, EMCC celebrates the “Pine Grove Festival,” including arts and crafts shows, musical entertainment, and assorted other activities that involve the students, faculty and community in a celebration of the Arts.

BLACK HISTORY EMPHASIS:  Students need an appreciation of where their heritage may originate and how cultural and societal forces make them “who they are.”  African American heritage is celebrated in College-wide activities during the month of February.

INTRAMURALS:  The intramural sports program at EMCC is designed to allow students the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities oriented to physical exercise and appreciation of sports.  The programs are voluntary and open to all students at the Scooba Campus.  Areas such as flag football, volley ball, basketball, board games, softball, and other sports are represented.  For additional information, contact the Director of Wellness, Student Activities/Intramurals. Intramurals will be offered at the Golden Triangle Campus beginning Fall 2024.

ATHLETICS:  Athletics should be educationally centered, committed to the College mission and used to promote school morale.  Athletics are often a focal point for comparison with other institutions and should promote togetherness within the student body.  At East Mississippi Community College, football, men and women’s basketball, baseball, women’s softball, and rodeo teams participate on an intercollegiate basis.

ADVISING, RETENTION, AND STUDENT SUCCESS

Advising at East Mississippi Community College is a systematic, collaborative teaching and learning process that empowers individuals to achieve academic, professional, and life goals while considering their diverse background, goals, skills, and responsibilities. Advising services are available to all students, full-time or part-time. Unless posted otherwise, EMCC’s Advising Center hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Students are assigned an advisor until graduation when they declare an academic pathway or a Career Technical major.

INSTRUCTIONAL ADVISING

Academic advisors offer assistance in the areas of academic advisement, academic difficulty, transcript evaluation, and transfer information to four-year institutions. Additionally, students are assigned academic faculty advisors based on their area of study. Academic advisors assist students with program and career advisement, career information and assessment. Career interest inventories are available to all students (career/technical and academic).  Instructors assist with program-specific advisement and placement.  Students interested in Work Based Learning and Job Placement opportunities are available by contacting Elizabeth Regl at 662.243.1959.

Objectives:  

-Encourage academic success to achieve life goals. 

-Provide opportunities for students to develop a healthy mind, body, and spirit. 

-Provide timely, appropriate, and relevant support. 

Expectations for the Student: 

The student will: 

-Take responsibility for learning about degree requirements, college policies, and procedures. 

-Ask your advisor/navigator/coach/coordinator questions if unclear about a policy or procedure. 

-Prepare a list of questions and ideas before a meeting with your advisor. 

-Contact your advisor at times other than the registration periods. 

-Inform your advisor about problems or concerns as soon as they arise so that the advisor can refer you to appropriate resources. 

-Silence your cell phone during an advising appointment. 

-Accept responsibility for your decisions and actions; advisors advise, you decide! 

Expectations for Advisor: 

The advisor will… 

-Provide a safe, respectful, and confidential space for students to ask questions, discuss interests, and express concerns. 

-Provide information about programs and graduation requirements, policies, and procedures. 

-Provide assistance in academic planning by making the connection between interests and university-parallel programs, career-technical programs, and workforce programs. 

-Provide support in scheduling and registering for courses, well as monitoring academic progress. 

-Be an advocate for student development and student success by making referrals when appropriate. 

-Help by being accessible via phone, email, and by appointment and respond in a timely manner. 

-Adhere to all FERPA guidelines when communicating with students 

Student Learning Outcomes: 

The student will: 

1. Achieve proficiency in using a variety of online tools to support educational planning and course registration, e.g., LEO Web Advisor, Student Self-Service, Student Planning, MATT, and Canvas.        
2. Develop an understanding of the chosen career/transfer path. 
3. Apply problem-solving skills. 

PERSONAL COUNSELING

Referral lists are available in the Dean of Student’s office for students in need of extensive personal and/or professional counseling. Educational materials on a variety of personal health (mental, emotional, physical) issues are available to students. mental health services are also available through our telehealth provider and contact information: Telehealth Services by EC Health Group. To make appointments call: 601-484-2793.

ONLINE

Online students are afforded all the advising services through the traditional avenue and are encouraged to make an appointment with the appropriate advisor and/or visit the advising centers when on campus.

COLLEGE TRANSFER AND JOB PLACEMENT FAIRS

During the fall and/or spring semester a Transfer Fair is held on the Scooba and Golden Triangle campuses. Students are provided the opportunity to receive first-hand information from the state’s four-year universities and colleges. The Job Placement Fair is held each spring semester on the Golden Triangle campus. This allows businesses and students the opportunity to interact concerning job and career opportunities. Additionally, four-year colleges and universities participate.

ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES

East Mississippi Community College seeks to comply with the letter, intent, and spirit of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.  Section 504 and ADA require institutions not to discriminate against students with disabilities and to make all offerings and programs of the College accessible.  East Mississippi Community College provides reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities through Accessibility Resource Services. Accessibility Resource Services verifies eligibility for accommodations and works with eligible students who have self-identified and provided current documentation.

Students should schedule an appointment with the designated DSS staff member on their respective campus to establish a plan for reasonable accommodations and services.

• Scooba Campus:  Dr. Renyetta Johnson - (662) 476-5088 or (662) 476-5000
• Golden Triangle Campus:  LeAnn Alexander - (662) 243-1979 or (662) 243-1900

COMFORT/SERVICE ANIMAL POLICY

Purpose

This policy establishes restrictions on pets and other animals in campus housing in order to provide a safe and healthful environment for members of the campus community to study, work, and live.

This is in reference to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Policy/Procedure 

Support animals are generally not allowed to accompany persons with disabilities in all public areas of East Mississippi Community College as a service animal is allowed to do, but a support animal may reside in College Housing, including accompanying such individual in all public or common use areas of College Housing, when it may be necessary to afford the person with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy College Housing.

Before a support animal can move into Campus Housing with a person with a disability, a request must be submitted to East Mississippi Community College’s Housing Department and approval must be granted (preferably at least 30 days prior to move in).  If the disability is not obvious, the Housing Department will require documentation from a licensed physician or mental health provider, including without limitation a qualified psychiatrist, social worker, or other mental health professional, to provide sufficient information for EMCC to determine:

• that the individual qualifies as a person with a disability (i.e., has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities); and
• that the support animal is necessary to afford the person with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy College Housing (i.e. that the animal would provide emotional support or other assistance that would ameliorate one or more symptoms or effects of the disability).
• A request for an accommodation to have a support animal must be made with each application for University Housing.

Responsibilites of Peopole with Disabilities using Assistance Animals

The college is not responsible for the care or supervision of assistance animals.  People with disabilities are responsible for the cost, care, and supervision of assistance animals including:

• Compliance with any laws pertaining to animal licensing, vaccination, and owner identification, including where applicable, immunization against rabies, distemper and parvovirus.  All dogs must wear rabies vaccination tag.
• Keeping the animal under control and taking effective action when it is out of control; and
• Feeding and walking the animal, and disposing of its waste.
• There may also be additional requirements, as determined by the department of Housing and Residence Life, for animals residing in College Housing for protection, safety and welfare of other students.

EMCC will not require any surcharges or fees for assistance animals.  However, a person with a disability may be charged for damage caused by an assistance animal to the same extent that EMCC would normally charge a person for the damage they cause.

People with disabilities who are accompanied by assistance animals must comply with the same college rules regarding noise, safety, disruption, and cleanliness as people without disabilities.

Failure to comply with any aspect of this policy may result in disciplinary action.

Exceptions and Exclusions:

EMCC may pose some restrictions on, and may even exclude, an assistance animal in certain instances.  As noted above, support animals are generally not allowed indoors on EMCC’s campus other than in College Housing.  Persons with disabilities may request approval to have the support animal accompany them to other campus areas as a reasonable accommodation.  Such requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis consistent with applicable laws and should be made to the following:

• Students should make requests for approval of the support animal to be permitted in other campus areas to the Dean of Student Affairs office.

Any animal may be excluded from an area in which it was previously authorized to be in only if:

• It is out of control and effective action is not taken to control it;
• It is not housebroken (or in the case of a support animal that deposits waste in a designated cage or litter box, the owner fails to clean such cage or box such that the cleanliness of the room or area is not maintained); or
• It poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others that cannot be mitigated by reasonable modifications of policies, practices, or procedures, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services.
• It acts in a dangerous or aggressive manner toward people or other animals.

In considering whether an assistance animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others, EMCC will make an individualized assessment, based on reasonable judgment, current medical knowledge, or the best available objective evidence, to determine:

• The nature, duration, and severity of the risk;
• The probability that the potential injury will actually occur; and
• Whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices, procedures, or the provision of auxiliary aids or services, will mitigate the risk.

The Director of the Housing shall provide a written statement of explanation to any student with a disability if a determination is made that the presence of the person’s assistance animal would fundamentally alter the nature of a program, service, or activity.

In the event that restriction or removal of an assistance animal is determined to be necessary, the person with a disability will still be given the opportunity to participate in the service, program, or activity without having the assistance animal present.

Guidelines for the East Mississippi Community College Community:

To ensure equal access and nondiscrimination of people with disabilities, members of the EMCC community must abide by the following practices:

• Do not ask for details about a person’s disability(ies);
• Do not pet an assistance animal, as it distracts the animal from its work;
• Do not feed an assistance animal;
• Do not deliberately startle, tease, or taunt an assistance animal; and
• Do not separate or attempt to separate a person from his/her assistance animal.

If you have a disability that may be affected by the presence of animals, please contact the Student Affairs office.  EMCC is committed to ensuring that the needs of all people with disabilities are met and will determine how to resolve any conflicts or problems as expeditiously as possible.

Service Animals 

Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. (Refer to Appendices section of this manual for Comfort or Service Animal Policy and Agreement form). While only service animals are recognized under the Rehabilitation Act and ADA, the FHA provides for a broader range of therapy or emotional support animals in campus housing. A “therapy” or “emotional support” animal is an animal whose role is to provide companionship, affection, security, calming influence, emotional support, or otherwise function as part of a regimen of psychological treatment. Pets are usually kept for companionship and are generally prohibited on EMCC campuses. Service animal requests should follow the same procedure of self-identification, application and documentation presentation. The work performed by the service animal should directly relate to the person’s disability. Students seeking to receive accommodation of a service animal in student housing must submit a request annually. Animals may NOT be in a residence prior to the approval of the ARS Committee. Reasonable housing accommodations for service animals will be made; however, if there is a conflicting disability the Housing Director will resolve the conflict in a timely manner. Appeals may be made to the ARS Committee. The decision of the ARS Committee will be final and is not subject to appeal. Service animals are to be under the care and supervision of the owner at all times. Noise and unruly behavior will not be tolerated. Should the animal damage college property, the owner is responsible for the damage fees. The service animal must be current on all vaccinations and health requirements. Appropriate proof of service animal training must be provided during the application phase for accommodations. Should the animal require emergency care, the owner is solely responsible. The College will NOT assume responsibility for the transport or care of the animal. An alternate emergency contact for the animal MUST be provided at the time of application for the accommodation. Service animals MAY be removed should they present a direct threat to the safety of others on campus, the animal engages in disruptive behavior or its presence alters the College program. 

Service Animal Control Requirements: 

• Should be on a leash when not providing the required service 
• Should respond to commands and signals of the owner 

Animal Etiquette 

• The animal should not sniff people, try to eat from the tables, or invade the personal space of other students. 
• The animal should not cause a disruption to the classroom environment, nor the dorm environment. 
• The animal should not block exits in case of an emergency. 
• The owner is responsible for the cleanup of animal waste. 

Housing Accommodations 

• Students with a medical condition that requires them to live alone can make a request by notifying the Dean of Students office and Accessibility Resource Services (ARS) by submitting a completed Housing Accommodation Request Form (Refer to Appendices 

section of this manual.) 

• Decisions on single room requests will be made on a case-by-case basis. 
• As part of the ARS intake process, the student may be asked to complete additional forms or submit documentation from their health care provider to support their request. 
• Students requesting housing accommodations will be notified of decision by the Office of the Dean of Students/Housing Department. 

Important Things to Note 

Students will be notified of their approval/letter of classroom accommodations via EMCC email by the respective Accessibility Services Liaison within 3 - 5 business days. Upon receipt of the email, the student may schedule a meeting to pick up their letters. 
It is the student’s responsibility to hand deliver and/or email the notification letters to their instructors before or at the beginning of each semester. This allows the opportunity for the student and the instructor to discuss any accommodations needed in that specific class. Students enrolled in online courses should email a copy of their letter to each instructor. The student is responsible for communicating with the ARS IMMEDIATELY should the student have problems receiving accommodations or feel that he or she is not receiving their allowable accommodations after timely notifying instructors and requesting their allowable accommodations from their instructors. 

Grievances 

The College may deny a student’s request for accommodations and /or auxiliary aids, which impose an undue hardship on the campus or which substantially modify academic standards, programs, or course work or produce an unduly cost to the college. The College also provides a Reasonable Accommodations Committee of professionals who review questionable documentation to ensure that such documentation meets Section 504 and ADA disability criteria. East Mississippi Community College has adopted an internal grievance procedure providing for prompt resolution of complaints alleging any action prohibited by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, its amendments, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Complaints should be addressed to the District Accessibility Resource Services Coordinator, P.O. Box 100, Mayhew, MS 39753, who has been designated to coordinate such compliance efforts. 

• A complaint should be filed in writing or verbally, contain the name and address of the person filing the complaint with a brief description of the alleged violation. 
• A complaint should be filed within ten (10) working days after complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation of the regulations. 
• An investigation, as may be appropriate, shall follow a filing of a complaint. A person designated by the President shall conduct the investigation. These rules contemplate informal but thorough investigations, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to a complaint. 
• A written determination as to the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, shall be issued by the person so designated above and a copy forwarded to the complainant no later than twenty (20) working days after its filing. 
• The District Accessibility Resource Services Coordinator shall maintain the complaint files and records for East Mississippi Community College. 
• The complaint can request a reconsideration of the case in the instances where they are dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration should be made within five (5) working days to the coordinator. 
• The right of the person to a prompt and equitable resolution of the complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies such as the filing of an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) complaint with the responsible federal agency or department. Use of this grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies. 
• These rules shall be construed to protect the substantive rights of interested persons to meet appropriate due process standards and to assure that East Mississippi Community College complies with and implements the appropriate resolutions. 

Title 41. Public Health. Chapter 53. Dogs and Rabies Control § 41-53-1. Inoculating dogs and cats for rabies 

Every person in the state of Mississippi who owns, or has in his or her possession, any dog or cat of the age of three (3) months or over shall have said dog or cat inoculated (vaccinated) against rabies as provided herein with the recommended dosage of an anti-rabic virus (vaccine) approved by the state board of health, and it shall be unlawful for any person within the state of Mississippi to own or have in his or her possession within the state of Mississippi any dog or cat three (3) months of age or over which has not been inoculated (vaccinated) against rabies with the approved dosage of an approved anti-rabic virus (vaccine). It shall be the duty of every person in this state so owning or having in his or her possession a dog or cat to have said dog or cat inoculated (vaccinated) immediately after said dog or cat has reached the age of three (3) months, and it shall be said person’s further duty to have said dog or cat so inoculated (vaccinated) thereafter as required by the state board of health. For a failure to comply with this section said person shall be subject to the penalties provided in section 41-53-13. 

Contact Information 

Email accessibilityservices@eastms.edu or call 662.243.1979 

HEALTH SERVICES

East Mississippi Community College will collect a $35.00 health fee at registration each semester.  The Health Fee will be mandatory for all full-time students. EMCC employs a full-time registered nurse on the Scooba campus to provide basic health care services, and the college provides Telehealth Services.

Scooba Campus

In case of minor injuries, first aid services/supplies are available in the Office of Instruction - Stennis Hall; Business Office - F. R. Young Building; President’s Office - Administration Building; Residence Hall Supervisors’ apartments; and Security Department’s Office.  In the event of an emergency, students should contact the College staff available or the nearest administrative office. If it is determined by College officials that the situation needs emergency professional care, 911 will be called.

Emergency Telephone Numbers:

Scooba Campus                                                                        (662) 386-8011 or (662) 476-5000

Ambulance/Sheriff/Police/Fire Dept.                                          911

Scooba Campus Nurse                                                             (662) 476-5103

Golden Triangle, Communiversity, and Lion Hills

In case of minor injuries, first aid service/supplies can be found in all labs and in the administrative offices. In the event of a serious injury, the instructor or office manager should contact the administrative office, the Student Services Department, or someone at the emergency numbers listed below.  The injured person should never be moved or left alone if at all possible.

If administration or appropriate staff determines the situation needs emergency professional care, 911 will be called.  

Emergency Telephone Numbers: (Golden Triangle Campus)

Switchboard                                                                                243-1900

Campus Police                                                                           418-9487, 243-1990, or 1900

Ambulance/Sheriff/Police/Fire Dept.                                          911

TITLE II OF PUBLIC LAW 101-542, CRIME AWARENESS AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT OF 1990

Campus Police 

The Campus Police Department is the unit or department responsible for law enforcement, security and emergency response at EMCC.  The office is located in the two-story building next to the President’s House on the Scooba Campus and at the main campus entrance on the GT Campus.  To report a crime or emergency, call the Scooba Campus Police Department at (662) 386-8011 or (662) 476-5000.  The Golden Triangle number to report a crime or emergency is (662) 418-9487, (662) 243-1990, (662) 243-1900, (662) 243-1979, or (662) 243-1956.

The law enforcement officers of the Campus Police Department receive their police authority via the provisions of 37-29-275 of the State Statute of Mississippi Code. 

The primary duty of the Campus Police of East Mississippi Community College is to protect the students, staff, visitors and their property.  At the same time, officers must monitor the student body and ensure compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by East Mississippi Community College. 

The Campus Police Department maintains a close working relationship with the Kemper County Sheriff’s Office, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and all appropriate elements of the Criminal Justice System.  The Campus Police Department provides twenty-four (24) hours a day patrol to the Scooba Campus and GT Campus and security in the residence halls.  Campus Police officers are responsible for a full range of public safety services, including all crime reports, investigations, medical emergencies, fire emergencies, traffic accidents, enforcement of federal and state laws, rules and regulations of the College and all other incidents requiring security assistance.

Potential criminal actions and other emergencies on campus can be reported directly by any student, faculty, or staff member.  For Scooba Campus emergencies call: (662) 386-8011, and for Golden Triangle Campus emergencies call (662) 418-9487.

Numerous efforts are made to inform members of the campus community on a timely basis about campus crime and crime related problems.  These efforts include the following:

Annual Report:  A comprehensive annual report of crime related information is compiled and available to any member of the campus community upon request.           

Special Alerts:  If circumstances warrant it, special printed crime alerts are prepared and distributed either selectively or throughout the campus.

A copy of the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Report is available on the EMCC website and upon request from the Campus Police Department.

Under the Campus Save Act, an addendum to the Clery Act, EMCC will provide annual statistics on incidents of campus crimes, including incidents of sexual misconduct occurring on campus and reported to campus authorities and/or local police.  Additionally, EMCC will comply with all mandatory reporting requirements that include a broader range of sexual misconduct incidents occurring on campus including domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

Nothing in this policy should be interpreted as precluding enforcement of the laws and regulations of the United States of America, the State of Mississippi, any locality in the state of Mississippi, or the College’s Student Code of Conduct.

BOOKSTORE

SCOOBA CAMPUS - The bookstore is located in the F.R. Young Student Union.  The Scooba Campus Bookstore normal operating hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mon - Thur and 7:30 - 3:00 on Friday.

GOLDEN TRIANGLE - The bookstore is located in the Student Union. Normal hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday.

All necessary books and most supplies may be purchased during and after registration. In order to purchase books students must have a current EMCC ID and class schedule or MSVCC student profile.

During the first week of each semester, students have three (3) days from the first day of class to return a book provided the book is still in the plastic wrap and the student has the receipt. Books purchased after that time can only be returned within three days from the date the book was purchased provided the book is still in the plastic wrap and the student has the receipt.

Used hardback and paperback books in good condition may be purchased from students at the END OF EACH SEMESTER ONLY for one half the original purchase price provided the books will be used again as textbooks.  Workbooks are excluded.

To ensure consistent and affordable access to instructional material, select classes include a fee-based electronic text and digital resources.  These classes are designated with an E in the course section code.  When enrolled in an E-section of a course, students are automatically assigned an eBook and the cost is added to your tuition and fees for that course. 

FOOD SERVICE FEES, POLICIES, AND PROCEDURES

Scooba Campus

The Cafeteria in the F.R. Young Student Union serves nineteen meals per week on an all you can eat basis.   The meal plan is required of all resident students. Commuter students can purchase meals on an individual basis. The Cafeteria is also open to the general public for all meals. Hours will be posted each semester.

Golden Triangle Campus 

All full-time students (no less than 12 semester credit hours on campus) enrolled at the Golden Triangle Campus will be assessed a required Food Service Fee in the amount of $165 each Fall Term (August - December) and each Spring Term (January - May).  This fee is eligible to be paid from Financial Aid funds that have been appropriately awarded to the student or may be paid directly by the student, as with other fees and tuition payments.  Once this fee has been paid, the student will be able to use the entire amount of the fee to purchase food and beverages from the two food service operations in the GT Student Union (the full-service cafeteria and the coffee shop/sandwich shop) by using the college-issued student ID card as a declining balance card, which works similar to a debit card.  The amounts deducted for purchases will be based on the current door price for a meal at the cafeteria and the current a la carte pricing of items sold in the coffee shop/sandwich shop.

The automatic assessment of the Food Service Fee will occur again at the beginning of the next Fall or Spring Term in which the student is enrolled full-time.  The automatic assessment of the Food Service Fee will not occur during the Summer Term.  A student’s DBA will remain active from the first date of the Fall Term, or the date which the fee is paid, whichever is the latest date, through the last date of the subsequent full Summer Term (one full academic year).  However, full-time or part-time enrollment is also required in order for a student’s DBA to be active during any enrollment term.  Any funds that remain unspent in a student’s DBA as of the last date of the full Summer Term will be removed and the DBA will become inactive until the next enrollment term.  Unused balances will not be refunded to the student.

At any time during an enrollment term, a student may re-load their declining balance account (DBA) in increments of $50 by paying this amount to their student account.  Likewise, at any time during an enrollment term, a part-time student (11 semester credit hours or less) may open or reload a DBA in increments of $50.  Only when a request to re-load or open a DBA is prior to the Financial Aid reimbursement date (the date FA refunds first begin), and the student’s account shows a refund balance sufficient to cover the amount, will a student be able to use Financial Aid for the purpose of re-loading or opening an account.  Otherwise, the student will have to make a direct payment to their account to re-load or open their DBA for that enrollment term.  As stated above, any funds that remain unspent in a student’s DBA as of the last date of the full Summer Term will be removed and the DBA will become inactive until the next enrollment term.  Unused balances will not be refunded to the student.

Meal Plans

The full-service cafeteria will offer a wide variety of meal selections, including traditional and southern cooking favorites; pizza, burgers, grilled sandwiches, and deli specials; soup and salad bars, dessert bars, and soft-serve ice cream; a large variety of beverages; and much more.  The dining format is pay-one-price, so the customer gets complete access to all the food stations and bars for one low price.  The standard per person door rate for all visitors, as well as students using their DBA for purchases in the cafeteria or students not participating in a pre-paid meal plan, will be $7.50.  This is a great dining value for any customer.  However, in addition to the convenience and portability of the DBA, students will be able to maximize their buying power in the full-service cafeteria by purchasing one of three pre-paid meal plans.  Choosing one of three pre-paid meal plans will save a student from 8% - 21% per meal, depending on which plan is selected.  Please see the business office for those options. 

LIBRARY

The East Mississippi Community College libraries contain a wide selection of reference materials and other traditional library holdings necessary to complement the educational program.  They are closed on official school holidays.

Normal hours of operation for the Scooba Campus Library are:           

        8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.                                                               Monday - Thursday               

        8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.                                                               Friday       

        3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.                                                              Sunday

Normal hours of operation for the Golden Triangle Campus Library are:         

        8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.                                                              Monday - Thursday               

        8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.                                                               Friday

COMPUTER LAB - Students must have a current ID to be able to use the lab.  All students must open their own accounts and remember their passwords.

CIRCULATION - Students, faculty, and staff may check out books for a two-week period.  A fine of twenty-five cents per day is assessed for each day that a book is overdue.  Renewal is permitted provided that the book is returned to the circulation desk.

RESERVES - Reserve books may not be removed from the library.   EMCC Library Web Page address is as follows: http://www.eastms.edu/students/library

AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER AREA LIBRARIES - The EMCC Libraries are members of the Mississippi State University-led Mississippi Library Partnership. Current students may check out from any of the Consortium libraries in person or by computer. Student library accounts can be accessed through the EMCC Libraries’ online catalog by entering their student ID.

All spaces within EMCC Libraries are first and foremost a place of study.  No tobacco use is permitted.  Food and drink are restricted to designated areas and may be barred entirely at the discretion of the library staff.  Noisy and distracting use of cell phones or other electronic devices is discouraged, and offenders may be asked to leave the library.  Students using EMCC computers for social or entertainment purposes will be expected to log off if others are waiting to work on school related tasks.  Excessively loud conversations or other behaviors which interfere with a quiet study atmosphere are grounds for removal from the library.  Persistent violators may lose the privilege of freely occupying library areas.

FOOD, DRINKS, TOBACCO PRODUCTS, AND THE USE OF CELL PHONES ARE PROHIBITED IN THE LIBRARY. SCHOOL-RELATED WORK TAKES PRIORITY OVER SOCIALIZING AND ENTERTAINING IN ALL AREAS OF THE LIBRARY, INCLUDING THE COMPUTER LAB.

AUDIO/VISUAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT - These materials are available for student and faculty use.  Students must use these materials in the library.

ONLINE DATABASES - Access to databases is through the EMCC Libraries’ home page. If a student is using online databases from off-campus, a password is required. There are numerous handouts on the use of the databases, and students may also telephone or email the library for further assistance.

LOST AND DAMAGED BOOKS - Reporting a book lost does not relieve the borrower of the responsibility for that book.  The borrower is charged the cost of replacing the book plus a $4 processing fee, and any accrued fines, not to exceed $10 per book.  Any book damaged to such an extent that the binding and pages are completely ruined is considered a loss to the library because it cannot be rebound.  The borrower is assessed the cost of replacing the damaged book plus a $4 processing fee, and any accrued fines, not to exceed $10 per book.  If the book is damaged, but can be rebound, the borrower is assessed the cost of rebinding.

STUDENT MAIL

Scooba Campus - Resident students will pick up mail at the F.R. Young Student Union in the Housing Department. Address for students is:

Name of Student

EMCC Student Mail

P.O. Box 158

1512 Kemper Street

F. R.  Young Student Union

Scooba, MS 39358

WELLNESS CENTER

Scooba Campus: 

The Wellness Center is equipped with an aerobic exercise area, and a large workout area that includes treadmills, a climb mill, elliptical machines, row machines, stationary bikes, a seated elliptical, an upper body ergometer, power racks, and weight training machines.  It is open for monitored student activity use from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Monday - Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., on Fridays.  These times and days are subject to change.  Any modifications to the scheduled times and days will be posted.

Golden Traingle Campus: 

The Wellness Center is equipped with an aerobic exercise area, and a workout area that includes treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, a seated elliptical, an upper body ergometer, power racks, and weight training machines. It is open for use from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. The Wellness Center is located on the 2nd Floor of the Student Center. 

TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

Students operating motorized vehicles on school premises shall do so in accordance with Mississippi traffic laws and such rules and regulations as may be formulated by College officials.  All students, faculty, administration, and staff must register and purchase a decal for vehicle operation on campus at the time of school registration.  The student decal is to be affixed to the left rear window.

Decal cost is $25 per school year and decals are non-transferable. Each vehicle must have a separate decal. Temporary decals are free to students with a current decal but are valid for only two weeks in a semester.

Regulations:

• Failure to register a vehicle will result in the issuance of a ticket to the offending party.
• Parking is not permitted:
  • on any sidewalk
  • on any grassed area (including road side areas unless designated for parking)      
  • in a loading/unloading zone
  • in any driveway  
  • in any designated no-parking zone  
  • in a double or multiple manner        
  • in any manner that obstructs traffic
  • in  areas designated for staff and faculty without proper decal  
  • in Disabled Parking areas without Disabled tag, hanging decal, proper documentation
• Vehicles should not be driven in excess of 15 mph on the Scooba Campus and 10 mph on the Golden Triangle Campus.
• Pedestrians have the right-of-way on campus; however, they must exercise caution when crossing high traffic areas.
• Driving in a reckless manner is prohibited. All traffic signs on campus are to be obeyed.
• Registered students are responsible for their vehicles on campus.
•  All accidents should be reported immediately to Campus Police. All accident report forms must be completed by Campus Police. Failure to report accidents may result in loss of privilege to make a claim on the student’s accident insurance program and also          may result in disciplinary action.
• If a vehicle is to be left on the Golden Triangle campus after normal hours, Campus Police must be notified.
• Music volume must be adjusted so that it can only be heard by the occupants of the vehicle.
• EMCC reserves the right to remove, impound and/or immobilize any illegally parked (pursuant to traffic regulation #2) or abandoned vehicle on campus (a vehicle shall be deemed abandoned after it remains in a location four consecutive weeks).  In such cases      the registered owner will be responsible for all costs involved, and EMCC will not be liable for damages to the vehicle occurring during the removal, impoundment, or immobilization.
• Any damages to a vehicle caused by passing over speed-breakers will result in no liability to EMCC.
• Scooba residential students may not drive to class during the day.
• Access to the campus will be limited during closed campus hours and during emergencies. Between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. anyone must enter and exit the Scooba Campus using the Highway 16 entrance under the archway. Failure to enter/exit campus            using the Highway 16 entrance between the hours of 11:00 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. will result in disciplinary action. For the GT Campus, check-in at the Police Station on Highway 182 is required.

Procedures for paying tickets

1. Tickets are to be paid in the College Business Office.
2. Students with outstanding tickets will suffer the following penalties:             
3. Students will not receive diplomas.
4. Students’ transcripts will be held.   
5. Students will not be allowed to register until account is cleared.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

East Mississippi Community College (EMCC) fosters a learning environment where students, faculty, staff, and administrators contribute to a positive and respectful community. This code of conduct outlines expectations for all members to ensure a safe and productive learning experience for everyone.

Rights and Responsibilities:

• College: EMCC is committed to informing students of their rights and responsibilities, upholding fair and transparent procedures, and maintaining a positive learning environment.
• Students: Enrolling at EMCC signifies an obligation to act responsibly, abide by the student code of conduct, and contribute to a positive campus environment.

General Expectations for EMCC Students:

• Cooperate with college officials in fulfilling duties and authorized activities.
• Refrain from disrupting educational activities.
• Meet all financial obligations to the college.
• Adhere to all local, state, and federal laws, EMCC policies, and provide accurate information for official records.
• Carry their college student ID card while on EMCC campus properties.

Inappropriate Behaviors

While the College is dedicated to the rights and freedoms afforded to individuals, some actions are considered inappropriate in an institution of higher education. EMCC expects members to conduct themselves with integrity and avoid the following:

1. Disrupting College Activities: Obstruction or disturbance of teaching, administration of the College or other College activities on or off College properties.
2. Disobeying College Officials: Failure to comply with the directives of College officials acting in the performance of duties.
3. Forgery and Misuse: Forgery, alteration, misuse of and/or theft of College documents, records, means of identification, e-mail and other electronic information.
4. Physical and Psychological Abuse: Engaging in physical or psychological abuse, including threats, harassment, stalking, or using technology to intimidate, harass, terrify, annoy, or offend others, on college-owned property or at college-sponsored events.
5. Theft and Damage: Damaging or stealing college property or the property of any member of the college community on campus is strictly prohibited.
6. Copyright Violations: Violating copyright laws associated with printed materials, audio/video content, and computer software.
7. Weapons and Illegal Substances: Possessing or using firearms, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or illegal drugs, alcohol, and other substances on campus or at college-sponsored activities (away or home). Additionally, being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol is strictly prohibited.  Violation of this policy could result in criminal charge.
8. Unauthorized Computer Use: Accessing computers without authorization or attempting to compromise computer systems or network security.
9. Academic Dishonesty: Engaging in plagiarism or any behavior that violates academic integrity.
10. Other Inappropriate Behaviors: Engaging in activities deemed inappropriate, including profanity, gambling, loitering, or unauthorized tampering with fire alarms or other safety equipment.

Specific Regulations:

1. Pets: Pets on campus are strictly prohibited. Note: For more information regarding emotional support animals and service dogs, please contact the Dean of Students Office on your respective campus.
2. Public Display of Affection: PDA is strictly prohibited on campus and at any activity of the College.
3. Unauthorized Access: Tampering with or entering any building, vehicle, or private property of the college, students, faculty/staff, or authorized visitors is strictly prohibited.
4. Tobacco Use: The use of tobacco and smoking products is not permitted in/on any EMCC buildings, grounds, parking areas, walkways, recreational and sporting facilities, and college-owned vehicles. The use of all forms of tobacco is prohibited, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, dip and snuff, as well as e-cigarettes, vapor-emitting products and “synthetic substances other than tobacco.” EMCC is a Tobacco-Free institution.
5. Electronic Devices: Using electronic devices without permission in classrooms is strictly prohibited.
6. Emergency Evacuation: During fire or tornado alarms, all students must leave their rooms and retreat to designated safe areas. During a fire alarm all students must leave the building and retreat to designated evacuation safe space.
7. Social Media Communication: Students are responsible for their online behavior and communication, ensuring respect and avoiding disruption, negativity, or dissemination of inappropriate content.

While the above list includes the types of behaviors and activities deemed to be in violation of the Code of Conduct, the list is not intended to be all inclusive. Students failing to abide by the Student Code of Conduct are subject to disciplinary action. It is the responsibility of the student to know and abide by the code of conduct.

Disciplinary action imposed on students in violation of the Code of Conduct is based on the severity of the infraction.

Disciplinary action may include one or more of the following:

• Disciplinary Probation: Being on Disciplinary Probation is a serious matter. It means the student (or student organization) have violated EMCC’s code of conduct and are no longer in good standing. The student may remain enrolled in the college only upon the condition that the student complies with specified standards of conduct or other requirements or restrictions on privileges, for a specified period of time. Probation lasts at least one semester, and any further violations during this time will be treated even more seriously. A student who violates the Student Conduct Code while on probation will be subject to further disciplinary action and should, at minimum, expect suspension from EMCC and all campuses in the EMCC system.
  • Students: You can be placed on probation up to three times before facing removal from EMCC. However, removal is possible even before reaching this limit. While on probation, you cannot hold any elected or appointed positions at the college.
  • Student Organizations: Organizations can be placed on probation up to three times within a two-year period before facing removal. However, removal is possible even before reaching this limit.
• Monetary fines: Student is obligated to pay monetary fines to EMCC to reconcile sanctions.
• Dismissal from a class or program: Student will be administratively removed from the class or program that they are enrolled in.
• No Contact Order: Student is prohibited from any contact of any form of the person of interest.
• Expulsion: Student will be withdrawn from all classes and prohibited from entering any EMCC campus or college-sponsored event. Expulsion is the permanent removal of a student from EMCC. It’s a serious consequence issued for violating EMCC’s rules or code of conduct, typically for severe offenses. 

Disciplinary Sanctions

CLASS “A” OFFENSES (SUBJECT TO EXPULSION, SUSPENSION, AND/OR ARREST)

• Assault
• Stealing
• Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault
• Possession of Drugs and/or Drug Paraphernalia
• Possession of a Firearm or Weapon
• Possession of any type of Explosive Device
• Pulling a False Fire Alarm
• Tampering with a fire alarm or smoke detector
• Failure to obey the direct order of a school official
• Academic dishonesty, cheating, or plagiarism

CLASS “B” OFFENSES (SUBJECT TO A MINIMUM OF A $100 FINE; ANY TWO CLASS “B” OFFENSES EQUALS ONE CLASS “A” OFFENSE)

• Possession of Alcohol or Alcohol Containers ($350 Fine)
• Violation of visitation rules ($300 fine)
• Harassing other students ($150 fine)
• Fighting ($200 fine)
• Possession and/or use of fireworks ($150 fine)
• Violating the college’s Tobacco-free policy ($100 fine)

CLASS “C” OFFENSES (SUBJECT TO A MINIMUM OF A $25 FINE PLUS RESTITUTION WHERE APPLICABLE; ANY TWO CLASS “C” OFFENSES EQUAL ONE CLASS “B” OFFENSE)

• Failing room inspection
• Throwing foreign objects at individuals, dorms, doors, or other property
• Causing any damage to college property, also considered malicious mischief (NOTE: student will be charged with the cost of the repair) ($50 plus restitution)
• Excessive noise/loud noise/undue noise (Any noise that disturbs other people is excessive) ($100 fine)
• Profanity and/or vulgarity (Includes music with obscene lyrics) ($50 fine)
• Entering and/or exiting College buildings via the emergency doors in non-emergency situations ($75 fine)
• Unauthorized entering/exiting of the dormitory after the dormitory has been closed ($300)
• Littering (including water balloons) ($50 fine)
• Failure to have Student ID card in possession ($25 fine)
• Inappropriate dress ($25 fine)
• Excessive horse play (include the use of water guns or other items that may be perceived as weapons) ($25 plus restitution if any)
• Male students loitering around Gilbert Anderson, Women’s Honors, Softball and Women’s Basketball Cottages) ($25 fine)
• Female students loitering around Men’s Honors, Sullivan Hall, and Male Cottages ($25 fine)
• All fines are treated as fees by the Business Office. Appeals must be made by submitting a letter or e-mail to the Dean of Students office. The Judicial Committee will convene to hear the case and the student has the right to plead their case to the committee. The Judicial Committee’s decision may be appealed in writing to the President of the College within three days. The President’s decision is final.

Misusage of Electronic Devices in Classrooms Policy 

Electronic devices can be used in classrooms if it is in the best interest of the class to do so (e.g. sections with e-textbooks). Such usage shall be at the instructor’s discretion. If used in this fashion, all devices should be set to silent and only used for class purposes.

Otherwise, such usage is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and will be penalized in the following manner:

• 1^ST offense - Student should be given a warning by instructor and the warning should be submitted to the Dean of Students.
• 2^nd offense - Student will be referred to the Dean of Students and will be fined.
• 3^rd offense - Student will be referred to the Dean of Students and the fine will be increased.
• 4^th offense - Student will be administratively withdrawn from the class with current grade expressed with the appropriate “W”.

Plagiarism and Cheating Policy 

• 1^ST offense while enrolled at EMCC- Student should be given a zero for the assignment and the documents should be forwarded to the appropriate Associate/Assistant Dean of Instruction where the student will be placed on instructional probation.
• 2^nd offense while enrolled at EMCC- Documentation should be forwarded to the appropriate Associate/Assistant Dean of Instruction. The Associate/Assistant Dean of Instruction will forward both offenses to the Dean of Students and the student will be administratively withdrawn from the course for that semester in cases of a repeat offense in that course.
• 3^rd offense while enrolled at EMCC- Student will be referred to the Dean of Students and student will be dismissed from EMCC.

Using an electronic device or other materials without permission during an exam will be considered cheating regardless of intent. Other forms of cheating will include, but are not limited to: having information available in any non-approved form, such as papers, books, notes, materials hidden in apparel, written on self or desks, tabbing out to another computer screen, looking at other students’ work, communicating with other students in any manner.

DUE PROCESS FOR STUDENTS

Students have the right to appeal following the Judicial Process.  Students will receive a written verification of their violation and the disciplinary action to be imposed.  The student has the right to appeal the disciplinary action to the Judicial Council. A standing Judicial Council for each campus is appointed by the College President. The Council is comprised of 5 members of the administration/faculty and 2 students.

The steps are: 

1. The student must file a written request with the appropriate administrator as designated in their disciplinary letter within 3 days of receiving written notice, stating the grounds for the appeal. 

2. The appropriate administrator will notify the student forty-eight hours in advance as to the time and place of the appeal hearing. If the student fails to appear at the hearing and does not contact the appropriate administrator the day of the hearing regarding the nonattendance, the appeal process will end.

3. The Judicial Council will conduct the appeal by parliamentary procedures with the following policies, procedures and rights in effect for all cases.

   • Minutes of the proceeding will be taken. A tape recorder may also be used. The minutes are on file in the appropriate administrative office on each campus.

   • The chairperson in the presence of the student will present the charges and evidence to support the charges. 

   • The student may present their case with the aid of witnesses.

   • The student may be accompanied by an advocate. If the advocate is an attorney, the Dean of Students must be notified 48 hours prior to the hearing.

   • The student, not the advisor, is responsible for presenting their case.

   • All individuals appearing at the hearing will be asked to sign a statement attesting to the truth of their statement.

   • The Council will be responsible for deciding on the guilt or innocence of the accused and if the disciplinary action imposed was appropriate. The decision is based solely on the facts presented; the committee will not have advanced notice of any facts (only the chairman).

   • After hearing all evidence, the Council will deliberate in executive session. All decisions are by majority vote and the chairman only votes if there is a deadlock.

   • The decision of the Council will be given to the student in writing.

   • All hearings will be closed to the public.

4. The student has the option of accepting the Council’s decision or appealing to the Office of the President.  An appeal to the President must be a written request within three (3) days of the Council’s notice stating the grounds for the appeal.

5. The President’s review of the student’s appeal will be on the record alone, the student has no right of appearance or presentation. 

6. The decision of the President will be the final appeal at EMCC. The student will be notified of the decision in writing.

Admittance of Students Previously Dismissed from EMCC for Disciplinary Reasons

Students who previously attended EMCC and were dismissed from EMCC and/or student housing for disciplinary reasons must request readmissions in writing to the Dean of Students. After the request is received, the Judicial Committee must review the request. The request must be submitted prior to the beginning of the semester that they are wishing to be readmitted.

Dress Code

Students are to dress appropriately during regular class hours and on visits to the library, food court, student center and any College sponsored event. Students are not to wear clothing where under garments are visible, or that sag inappropriately.  Shoes must be worn at all times other than in the resident hall or the immediate area surrounding the resident hall. Students wearing clothing deemed inappropriate or offensive will be asked to change to more appropriate wear. This includes but is not limited to tank tops, pajamas, clothing that exposes the midriff or portions of the chest or back, and any clothing that promotes the use or consumption of alcohol and/or any illegal substance. In the above cases, the Dean of Students is the final authority for compliance with the Dress Code.  Additional requirements may apply to CT students due to safety requirements or identifications requirements in clinical settings.

Conduct when Representing the College

All rules and regulations of the school shall remain in effect during the entire time that students are away from the campus and participating in any College-sponsored activity.  During this time, students are representing this institution and will act accordingly.  Any infraction of the rules and regulations as set forth in the Student Handbook, and those deemed necessary by the instructors/advisors, will be grounds for immediate disciplinary action.

Depending on the severity of the infraction, the student may be suspended from that function and be subject to disciplinary action. Upon securing the most economical transportation to the home campus for said student, the instructors/advisors will no longer be held liable or responsible for said student.

Upon returning to the campus, that student may be dismissed from that class or course with the option for termination once due process has been afforded the student.

Student I.D. Card

An ID card is issued to each student as part of the registration process.  No charge is made for the first card issued.  The replacement cost is $25.  The ID card must be surrendered to any College official upon request and upon withdrawal from school.  The ID card is not required to be worn in a visible location of one’s person at all times, but must be presented to college officials when requested.  Students without an ID card will be subject to a $25 fine. 

The card is needed for the following purposes:

1. For proof that you are a current student.
2. Admission to on-campus College-sponsored activities.
3. Admission to on-campus athletic events and out-of-town athletic events of the Mississippi Community & Junior College Conference at student rates.
4. Identification at the Business Office, Campus Bookstore, Campus Police Office, Financial Aid Office, Campus residence hall, Library, and Food Court.
5. Entrance to the New Residence Hall, Gilbert Anderson Hall & Women’s Honors

Alcohol and Drug Policy Statement 

EMCC is greatly concerned with the health and well-being of its students.  EMCC is committed to providing and maintaining for its students an environment in which they may flourish, excel, and attain their individual goals and standards of achievement.  It is the position of EMCC that the use and/or abuse of alcohol or illegal drugs by its students on EMCC-owned or controlled property or in association with EMCC-related activities is inconsistent and incompatible with the purpose and mission of EMCC.  Therefore, it is the policy of EMCC that any possession, consumption, manufacture, or distribution of alcohol or illegal drugs is prohibited.

If students of EMCC should experience problems or crises that are alcohol or drug-related, they are encouraged to seek confidential assistance through a local community counseling center.  For more information on available counseling services, contact the Dean of Students office.

Any student failing to observe the EMCC Alcohol and Drug Policy will be subject to the imposition by EMCC of sanctions in accordance with local, Mississippi, and federal law.  For EMCC students, these sanctions may include suspension or expulsion.   In addition to sanctions, any EMCC student found in violation of the EMCC Alcohol and Drug Policy may be referred to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.

The following acts of conduct constitute grounds for sanctions against EMCC students:

1. Use, possession, under the influence of, manufacture or distribution of alcoholic beverages, barbiturates, narcotics, or other illegal drug substances such as marijuana or LSD, on EMCC owned or EMCC controlled property or in association with EMCC related activities;
2. Disorderly, licentious, obscene, lewd, or indecent behavior or expression performed on EMCC owned or controlled property or in association with EMCC related activities;
3. Any violation of local, Mississippi, or federal laws regarding illegal drugs or alcohol.

EMCC Administration personnel have the authority to review and investigate any allegations made against an EMCC student concerning alcohol or drug possession, manufacture, or use/abuse.  If an EMCC student is determined to have possessed, manufactured, or used/abused alcohol or illegal drugs, that individual will be subject to disciplinary or administrative hearings, and that individual will be required to submit to an alcohol or drug treatment program, or to specialized counseling.  Medical expenses, lab fees, and further treatments costs will be the responsibility of the student.

If a student is suspended or expelled, he/she will be considered for readmission following counseling and/or appropriate treatment.  An appeals process is available to any student who desires additional consideration of an action taken against him/her.  (Note:  Federal law states that students found guilty of engaging in the unlawful manufacturing, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance during the period covered by all Title IV funds [financial and] will lose the right to obtain any future Title IV funds.

Students suspended or expelled under the EMCC Alcohol and Drug Policy may be eligible for re-admittance at the discretion of EMCC.

Rooms, vehicles and persons are subject to search while on EMCC property. Drug dogs may be used in searches of EMCC property including parking lots.

Non-Discrimination Policy –  Anti-Harassment Policy – Grievance Procedures

General Statement of Policy 

East Mississippi Community is committed to providing all students and adults with a safe and supportive school environment. Members of the college community are expected to treat each other with mutual respect.

It is hereby the policy of East Mississippi Community to oppose and prohibit discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, sex or disability. Harassment is also a form of unlawful discrimination as well as disrespectful behavior, which will not be tolerated. Any discrimination or harassment of a member of the college community by another member of the college community is a violation of this policy.

East Mississippi Community College shall investigate all complaints of discrimination and/or harassment; formal or informal, verbal or written, and to discipline or take other appropriate action against any member of the school community who is found to have violated this policy.

Procedure to file a grievance based on discrimination or harassment is as follows:

Complaints should be addressed to the Director of Human Resources/Payroll, P.O. Box 158, Scooba, MS 39358, telephone (662) 476-5000, who has been designated to coordinate such compliance efforts.

1. A complaint should be filed in writing or verbally, contain the name and address of the person filing it, and briefly describe the alleged violation of the regulations.
2. A complaint must be filed within ten (10) working days after complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation. (Processing of allegations of discrimination which occurred before this grievance procedure was in place will be considered on a case-by-case basis.)
3. An investigation, as may be appropriate, shall follow a filing of complaint. The investigation shall be conducted by a person designated by the President. These rules contemplate informal but thorough investigations, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to a complaint.
4. A written determination as to the validity of the complaint and a description of the resolution, if any, shall be issued by the person so designated in No.3 and a copy forwarded to the complainant no later than twenty (20) working days after its filing.
5. The coordinator shall maintain the files and records of East Mississippi Community College relating to the complaints filed.
6. The complainant can request a reconsideration of the case in instances where he or she is dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration must be made within five (5) working days to the coordinator who will remand the complaint to a grievance committee made up of five (5) faculty/staff members and is assigned at the beginning of the year by the Campus Vice President.
7. The right of a person to a prompt and equitable resolution of the complaint filed hereunder shall not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies such as the filing of an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) complaint with the responsible federal department or agency. Use of this grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies.
8. These rules shall be construed to protect the substantive rights of interested persons to meet appropriate due process standards and to assure that East Mississippi Community College complies with and implements the appropriate regulations.

Retaliaton

It is a separate and distinct violation of this policy for any member of East Mississippi Community College’s community of faculty, staff and students to retaliate against any person who reports alleged discrimination or harassment.  Further it is also a violation of this policy to retaliate against any person who testifies, assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding or hearing relating to such discrimination or harassment. It is possible to have violated this anti-retaliation provision even if the underlying complaint of discrimination or harassment is not found to be a violation of this policy. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to any form of intimidation or reprisal and may be addressed through application of the same reporting, investigation, and enforcement procedures as for discrimination and/or harassment. In addition, a person who knowingly makes a false report may be subject to the same action that East Mississippi Community may take against any other individual who violated this policy. The term false report refers only to those made in bad faith and does not include a complaint that could not be corroborated or which did not rise to the level of discrimination or unlawful harassment.

Consequences

Any college employee or student who is found to have violated the discrimination, harassment, or retaliation policy may be subject to action including, but not limited to, warning, remedial training, education or counseling, suspension, expulsion, transfer, termination or discharge.

Reporting

Any college employee, who observes, overhears or otherwise witnesses discrimination or harassment, which may be unlawful, or to whom such discrimination or harassment is reported, must take prompt and appropriate action to prevent its reoccurrence.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT/TITLE IX/CAMPUS SAVE ACT

In publishing this policy, the College is not intending to substitute or supersede related civil and/or criminal law. It should be clearly understood that there is a fundamental difference between the nature and purpose of student discipline and criminal law. Criminal law considers gross sexual assault and unlawful sexual contact to be serious crimes that are punishable by imprisonment in jail and/or probation. It also involves creation of a criminal record and may include a monetary fine. All students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the public participating in College activities have the right to an environment free from sexual or physical intimidation that would prevent a reasonable person from attaining educational goals or living and working in a safe environment. The following policy pertains only to sexual harassment as defined by Title IX Section 106.30. According to Title IX Section 106.30, sexual harassment means conduct on the basis of sex which satisfies one or more of the following: 1) An employee of the recipient conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the recipient on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct; 2) Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity; or 3) “Sexual assault” as defined in 20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)(v), “dating violence” as defined in 34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(30).

Statement of Policy:

It is the policy of East Mississippi Community College, in keeping with efforts to provide and maintain an environment in which the dignity and worth of all members of the college’s community are respected, that sexual harassment of students and employees at EMCC is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment may involve the behavior of a person of either sex against a person of the opposite or same sex, when that behavior falls within the definition set forth in Title IX § 106.30. The application of this policy is in no way directed at inhibiting academic freedom or First Amendment freedoms.

Presumption of Responsibility

Throughout training, investigations, and proceedings, it is assumed a respondent is not responsible for actions and/or damages alleged until a finding of responsibility has been determined. Applicability/Jurisdiction This policy only applies to individuals and activities located in the United States that are related to programs sponsored by or located at East Mississippi Community College.

Definitions:

Actual knowledge: Notice of sexual harassment or allegations of sexual harassment to a recipient’s Title IX Coordinator or any official of the recipient who has authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of the recipient, or to any employee of the college. Imputation of knowledge based solely on vicarious liability or constructive notice is insufficient to constitute actual knowledge. This standard is not met when the only official of the recipient with actual knowledge is the respondent. The mere ability or obligation to report sexual harassment or to inform a student about how to report sexual harassment, or having been trained to do so, does not qualify an individual as one who has authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of the recipient. “Notice” as used in this paragraph includes, but is not limited to, a report of sexual harassment to the Title IX Coordinator as described in § 106.8(a).

Advisor:

The complainant and respondent may each choose and be accompanied to any meeting or hearing related to these procedures by an Advisor, who may provide support during such meeting or hearing. During meetings and interviews, the Advisor may quietly confer or pass notes with the party in a non-disruptive manner. The Advisor may not intervene in a meeting or interview, or address the Investigator. Consistent with the college’s obligation to promptly resolve sexual misconduct complaints, the institution reserves the right to proceed with any meeting or interview, regardless of the availability of the party’s selected Advisor.

Complainant:

An individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

Consent:

Agreeing to do or allow something. It may be given by words or actions, so long as those words or actions create clear, mutually understood permission to engage in (and the conditions of) sexual activity. Silence does not necessarily constitute consent, and past consent of sexual activities does not imply ongoing future consent. A person who is unable to consent includes, but is not limited to, any person under the legal age of consent, anyone who is physically helpless, or anyone who is mentally incapacitated. A physically helpless person is considered to be one who is unconscious or for any other reason unable to communicate unwillingness to engage in any act. A mentally incapacitated person may be one who is under the influence of alcohol or a drug, or who is mentally incapable of understanding the implications and consequences of any act.

Dating Violence:

Means violence committed by a person

a. Who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and b. Where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors:

i. The length of the relationship.

ii. The type of relationship.

iii. The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Decision Maker(s):

Individual(s) who will determine the sanctions and remedies for parties. East Mississippi Community College’s Deans of Students are designated as the college’s decision makers.

Domestic Violence:

A felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed

 a. By current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim;

 b. By a person with whom the victim shares a child in common;

c. By a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitate with, the victim as a spouse or intimate partner;

d. By a person similarly situated to a spouse or victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the crime or violence occurred;

e. By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from the person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred.

Formal Complaint:

A document filed by a complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging sexual harassment against a respondent and requesting that the recipient investigate the allegation of sexual harassment. At the time of filing a formal complaint, complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in the education program or activity of the recipient with which the formal complaint is filed. A formal complaint may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator in person, by mail, or by electronic mail, by using the contact information required to be listed for the Title IX Coordinator under § 106.8(a), and by any additional method designated by the recipient. As used in this paragraph, the phrase “document filed by a complainant” means a document or electronic submission (such as by electronic mail or through an online portal provided for this purpose by the recipient) that contains the complainant’s physical or digital signature, or otherwise indicates that the complainant is the person filing the formal complaint. Where the Title IX Coordinator signs a formal complaint, the Title IX Coordinator is not a complainant or otherwise a party under this part or under § 106.45, and must comply with the requirements of this part, including § 106.45(b)(1)(iii).

Investigator: An individual who acts as a neutral party in the investigation and provides a detailed, unbiased report regarding the findings of the investigation. EMCC has designated the following individuals as Title IX investigators: the college’s chief of police, assistant chief of police, and lieutenant.

Postsecondary Institution: An institution of graduate higher education as defined in § 106.2(l), an institution of undergraduate higher education as defined in § 106.2(m), an institution of professional education as defined in § 106.2(n), or an institution of vocational education as defined in § 106.2(o).

Respondent: An individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

Retaliation: Retaliation against a person who has in good faith filed, supported or participated in an investigation of a complaint of any type of discrimination, harassment or sexual misconduct as defined above is prohibited. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, ostracizing the person, pressuring the person to drop or not support the complaint, or adversely altering that person’s educational, living, or work environment. Students accused of retaliation will be subjected to the procedures of the EMCC Disciplinary Process.

Sexual Assault: An offense classified as a forcible or non-forcible sex offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Stalking: The term “stalking” means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to: a. Fear for his or her safety or the safety of others; or b. Suffer substantial emotional distress.

Standard of Evidence: The standard of evidence in Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy is a preponderance of the evidence. To prove an element by a preponderance of the evidence simply means to prove that something more likely than not.

Supportive Measures: Non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the complainant or the respondent before or after the filing of a formal complaint or where no formal complaint has been filed. Such measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or the recipient’s educational environment, or deter sexual harassment. Supportive measures may include counseling, extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments, modifications of work or class schedules, campus escort services, mutual restrictions on contact between the parties, changes in work or housing locations, leaves of absence, increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus, and other similar measures. The recipient must maintain as confidential any supportive measure provided to the complainant or respondent, to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the recipient to provide the 89 supportive measures. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of supportive measures.

Grievance Procedures: Both the person filing a complaint and the person accused of a violation of the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy has certain rights in the college’s disciplinary process. The standard of evidence in Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy is a preponderance of the evidence.

Access to resources: Resources are listed in the Sexual Harassment Policy. That policy is found in the EMCC Catalog, EMCC website, and EMCC Policy & Procedure Manual.

Hearing: A live hearing will be utilized to make a determination of responsibility regarding an allegation under the Sexual Harassment Policy. Technology may be utilized during the live hearing in consideration of safety and/or social distancing. Before the hearing, parties will be given notice of specific allegation or allegations, evidence to be presented, date, time, location or electronic access information, and any other information deemed appropriate by a college administrator, Title IX Coordinator, or Decision Maker(s).

Access to advisor: Each party (Complainant and respondent) may have an Advisor present for the live hearing.

Decision Maker(s): Are the EMCC Deans of Students who were designated by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator may be present for the live hearing, but cannot be a Decision Maker or Advisor.

During the Hearing: The Decision Maker(s) will moderate the proceeding. The Complainant, Respondent, and witnesses will have an opportunity to offer input as to the specifics of the alleged sexual harassment. The structure of the hearing will be conducted as follows:

• Advisors ask questions only after each question is approved by the Decision Maker(s).
• The other party’s advisor may cross-examine the individual after initial questioning. As with the initial questioning, cross-examination questions must also be approved by the Decision Maker(s).
• After all questioning and items have been introduced for consideration, the Decision Maker(s) will decide if the Respondent is responsible concerning the allegation of sexual harassment. After the decision, the parties will be informed by the Title IX Coordinator (or designee) within five business days of the decision.

Appeal(s) Student: In the event a student wishes to appeal the decision from the Title IX Sexual Harassment hearing, refer to the EMCC Catalog for the Student Appeals procedure. Employee: In the event an employee wishes to appeal the decision from the Title IX Sexual harassment hearing, refer to the EMCC Policy & Procedure Manual for the employee appeal process.

Safety and Security Act

Under the Campus Save Act, an addendum to the Clery Act, EMCC will provide annual statistics on incidents of campus crimes, including incidents of sexual misconduct occurring on campus and reported to campus authorities and/or local police.  Additionally, EMCC will comply with all mandatory reporting requirements that include a broader range of sexual misconduct incidents occurring on campus including domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.

Nothing in this policy should be interpreted as precluding enforcement of the laws and regulations of the United States of America, the State of Mississippi, any locality in the state of Mississippi, or the College’s Student Code of Conduct.

FIREARMS AND WEAPONRY POSSESSION POLICY

East Mississippi Community College recognizes that the possession of firearms (including handguns) or other weapons on school premises or at school functions by other than duly authorized law enforcement officials create unreasonable and unwarranted risk of injury or death to EMCC employees, students, visitors, and guests, and also creates an unreasonable and unwarranted risk of injury or death to EMCC employees, students, visitors, and guests, and also creates an unreasonable and unwarranted risk of damage to properties of EMCC, employees, students, visitors, and guests.  Therefore, EMCC prohibits the possession of firearms or weapons in any form by any person other than duly authorized law enforcement officials on school premises or at school functions, regardless of whether the possessor of the weapon has a valid permit to carry the weapon.

HOUSING

The College maintains five residence halls and thirty cottages on the Scooba Campus, which house approximately 600 students.  These residence halls are air-conditioned and equipped with furniture and utilities essential for comfortable living.  Students must provide their own linens, pillows, and toilet articles.

A person desiring residence hall accommodations must submit an online Application for Student Housing along with the $100.00 housing application fee. After payment is received, the housing application fee will remain on file until the student discontinues participation in campus housing.  If a student takes a break from housing, either voluntarily or due to a violation of college policy, the student must submit a new application and pay another housing application fee in order to reserve a room for housing.  The housing application fee is non-refundable unless EMCC is unable to provide housing due to a lack of availability, in which case, the fee will be refunded upon written request from the student. 

To apply for student housing, a student must complete an online application at www.eastms.edu/housing  and pay the $100 housing application fee. No student will be allowed to reside in College housing for more than six semesters without approval of the Residence Hall Appeals Committee.

In the event of limited residence hall space, Mississippi residents will be given first preference.  A limited number of out-of-state residence hall spaces will be reserved to coincide with scholarship limits for non-residents as established by the MACJC.

Academic Requirements for Residence Hall Students 

All students must be enrolled in and maintain a minimum of 12 semester hours of traditional face-to-face courses to live in the residence hall. Other combinations of traditional face-to-face and online loads equal to 12 hours or more will be considered as appropriate. 

Students will be placed on Housing Probation when a regular semester GPA falls below the following criteria:     

Students who are on a Housing Suspension status cannot reside in the residence halls for one semester following their suspension. Summer semesters can be counted for this purpose.

All resident hall students who are in non-compliance with these GPA standards at mid-term (9 weeks) will be sent a written warning of their residence hall status.  Notification of non-compliance of these regulations will be made by the Director of Student Housing.  Any student in non-compliance with the GPA requirements at mid-term will be required to attend counseling and study aid programs two nights a week under the direction of assigned staff.  The study aid program schedule will be given to the students once they meet with the Dean of Student Affairs/Housing to discuss and sign the study hall agreement. Students attending the study aid programs will be allowed a maximum of two unexcused absences.  Any student exceeding two unexcused absences will immediately lose housing privileges.  The Dean of Student Services will determine if an absence is excused or unexcused.  While attending the study aid programs, any student who is disruptive and/or presents a disciplinary problem will immediately lose housing privileges and may receive additional sanctions depending on the violation(s). Any person may appeal dismissal from campus housing by doing so in writing to the Director of Student Housing or the Dean of Student Services.  Any appeal by a student not meeting these requirements will be directed to the Residence Hall Appeals Committee which will be designated by the President.

General Housing Guidelines and Regulatons: 

In order to protect the rights of each individual and to ensure protection of College property, there must be certain guidelines for all to follow.  FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE GUIDELINES WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION WHICH MAY INCLUDE: DISCIPLINARY PROBATION, MONETARY FINES, DISMISSAL FROM RESIDENCE HALL, AND EXPULSION.

1. Residents of the College residence halls must be enrolled in at least 12 hours of traditional face-to-face courses to live in the residence hall. Other combinations of traditional face-to-face and online loads equal to 12 hours or more will be considered as appropriate. All resident students of the college must maintain at least 12 semester hours throughout the entire semester.
2. Each resident is responsible for the College property assigned to them.  Neither furniture nor equipment should be removed from your room without first securing permission from the Director of Student Housing.  Each room occupant will be held accountable for all room furniture and fixtures and all suite occupants will be held accountable for all common areas.
3. All residents must attend any residence hall meetings and will be held responsible for all information set forth.
4. Costs of repairing damage or replacing losses to a residence hall room will be charged to each room occupant unless the party directly responsible is known. Costs of repairing damage to bath and restroom areas will be charged to each suite occupant sharing the restroom area unless the party directly responsible is known.  Costs of repairing lounge areas, hallways, and/or the residence hall itself will be charged to all residence hall occupants unless the party directly responsible is known.  DAMAGE TO ANY COLLEGE PROPERTY IS CONSIDERED A SERIOUS OFFENSE.
5. The College reserves the right to inspect any living quarters at any time the administration deems it necessary.
6. Possession or use of intoxicating beverages and dangerous drugs is prohibited.  Any student who is under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, or has alcoholic beverage in his/her possession, or who has alcoholic beverage containers in his/her room or trash can will receive disciplinary action, possibly be disallowed housing privileges, or may receive the maximum penalty of dismissal from the College.
7. Smoking is not allowed in any residence hall at any time.
8. The College is not responsible for loss or damage of valuables, money, or other personal property. If loss or damage does occur, the residence hall supervisor, Director of Student Housing, security, or the Vice President of Student Services should be notified immediately. Students are strongly encouraged to have their parents check with their home owners insurance regarding renter insurance.
9. Residents are expected to abide by all Federal, State, and Local Laws.
10. Students are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their room, restroom, and bath areas.  There will be a systematic room inspection each week and/or as needed of all residence halls at which time rooms must be clean, neat and attractive. Failure to maintain rooms, restrooms, and bath areas in a clean and orderly condition may result disciplinary actions.
11. Aluminum foil is not allowed in the residence hall windows.  Students must use appropriate curtains or blinds.
12. Permanent fasteners or connectors on the walls, doors, or fixtures are prohibited without the permission of the Residence Hall Supervisor or the Director of Student Housing.
13. Offensive, inappropriate, or obscene materials to include alcohol and drug related material may not be visible anywhere in the residence hall. 
14. DECALS are not permitted on any room walls or furniture.
15. Pets are not allowed in the residence halls.
16. Fire alarms, fire extinguishers & other protective equipment are in place for the safety of all students.  Any attempt to tamper or abuse such devices is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
17. No person should sit on guard rails, in open windows, or hazardous areas of any kind.
18. Students should not carry on conversations with other students through the residence hall windows.  Visitation is limited to rooms, the lobby or outside the residence hall.
19. UNAUTHORIZED VISITATION OF MALES IN THE FEMALE RESIDENCE HALL OR FEMALES IN THE MALE RESIDENCE HALLS IS PROHIBITED AND WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
20. Male students are allowed to enter the lounge area in Gilbert-Anderson Hall only under those guidelines specified. Females are not allowed to enter any male residence halls due to the absence of proper supervision.
21. Visiting hours are Sunday-Saturday at 8:00 a.m. till 11:00 p.m. you are responsible for your guest & will be held liable for the actions of your guest. All guests must sign-in with the security guard located in the lobby area of the residence halls.  There will be NO visitors under the age of 16 allowed past the front lobby unless accompanied by a parent.
22. Loitering in & around the residence halls is prohibited.
23. Overnight visitors in the residence halls must be of the same sex as the room occupant and must be approved 24 hours in advance by the Residence Hall Supervisor or the Director of Student Housing.  Overnight guest must be at least 18 years old and are only allowed on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.  All visitors are expected to conduct themselves appropriately & comply with the rules of the institution.
24. Only residents will be permitted to enter the residence halls during school hours unless the residence hall supervisor grants permission. Any visitors should be accompanied by a building resident & have the supervisor’s approval.
25. CLOSED CAMPUS HOURS will be observed beginning at 11:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. for the entire campus, unless noted otherwise (example - “dead week”).  With exception of participation in school sponsored functions, all students on campus should be in their assigned residence hall by 11:00 p.m.  All visitors will be required to leave the campus at this time.  Students arriving after 11:00 p.m. should go directly to their assigned residence hall.  After this hour, all loud noise should be eliminated. NOTE:  The doors to Gilbert-Anderson Hall & Women’s Honors Residence Hall will be locked at 11:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday for security purposes.  Security personnel will be stationed at the main entrance of Gilbert-Anderson Hall to allow residents to enter & exit the residence hall.  On Fridays & Saturdays there will be limited access to enter & exit the residence hall.  The weekend time schedule will be posted by the Residence Hall Supervisor.
26. Housing Withdrawal Procedure: Students must visit the housing department, fill out a Housing Withdrawal Form and then turn in their key to housing personnel. A student should turn in the student I.D. card to the Business Office.  DO NOT MOVE OUT OF THE RESIDENCE HALL WITHOUT FIRST OFFICIALLY WITHDRAWING. Charges for your room & meals will continue until the withdrawal process has been completed.  Keys not turned in will result in a $100 charge to the student’s account. No refunds will be granted until a student has officially completed the withdrawal process.
27. Lost Key - Any time a key is lost, a $45.00 charge will be levied.  The lock will be changed to protect the property of all occupants of that room.
28. Grilling/barbecuing is not allowed on campus except for EMCC designated events & faculty/staff supervised functions.

Non-Students on Campus 

Any and all persons with no legitimate reason for being on College property are subject to relevant local, state, and federal laws. EMCC students are responsible for the actions of anyone visiting them on campus. Children left unattended in personal vehicles or on College property are considered endangered, and the appropriate local legal and/or protective agencies will be contacted.