Student Handbook

2025–2026

2101 14th Street

Cloquet, Minnesota 55720

(218) 879-0800

1-800-657-3712

MN Relay 711 or 1-800-627-3529

www.fdltcc.edu

The information in this student handbook was the best available at the time of printing.

All information is subject to change.

All provisions within this handbook are subject to change without notice.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator, and adheres to established policies of Minnesota State.

This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling (218) 879-0864.

Table of Contents

I. About Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. 3

II. General Information. 5

III. Bookstore. 9

IV. Student Activities. 10

V. Academic Advising and Instructional Information. 12

VI. Privacy of Education Records. 20

VII. Changes in Registration. 24

VIII. Grading System.. 27

IX. Credit Life. 28

X. Grading Policy. 28

XI. Financial Aid. 29

XII. General Financial Aid Information. 32

XIII. Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy. 34

XIV. Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education Opportunity. 41

XV. Sexual Violence Policy and Procedure. 42

XVI. Student Conduct Code. 42

XVII. Academic Honesty and Classroom Conduct 43

XVIII. Student Complaints and Grievances Policy. 44

XIX. Drug and Alcohol Policy. 48

XX. Computer Information Policy. 51

XXI. Email Accounts. 51

XXII. Important Phone Numbers. 53

XXIII. Community Resources and Student Health Insurance. 54

It is our intention to provide resources relevant to the academic, extracurricular, and social lives of students.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the material contained within this handbook as of the date of publication. However, all policies, procedures, academic schedules, program information, and fees are subject to change at any time by appropriate action of the faculty, the University/College administration, the Minnesota State Board of Trustees or the Minnesota Legislature without prior notification. The provisions of this handbook do not constitute a contract between the student and the College. The information in this handbook is for use as an academic planning tool and is subject to change at any time.

Upon publication of this handbook, all previous issues are revoked. This handbook was revised and published in July 2025.

I. About Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College

Mission

The mission of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is to provide higher education opportunities for its communities in a welcoming, culturally diverse environment.

To achieve this mission, we will:

· Promote scholarship and academic excellence through transfer and career education and provide access to higher education by offering developmental education.

· Respectfully promote the language, culture, and history of the Anishinaabeg.

· Provide programs which will celebrate the cultural diversity of our community and promote global understanding.

· Promote a sense of personal respect and wellness.

· Provide technological opportunities and experiences, preparing students for the future.

· Provide programs and baccalaureate degrees that fulfill our commitment to American Indian communities, our land grant status, and the union of cultures.

Vision Statement

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College offers a postsecondary education to honor the past for those living in the present and dreaming of the future, through a spirit of respect, cooperation, and unity.

Core Values

Respect: Manaaji’idiwin

Integrity: Gwayakwaadiziwin

Stewardship: Ganawenjigewin

Innovation: Maamamiikaajinendamowin

Compassion: Zhawenjigewin

Equal Opportunity Institution

Minnesota State is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in programs, services, and activities, regarding race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status regarding public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. In addition, discrimination in employment based on membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law or familial status is prohibited.

Harassment of an individual or group based on race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status regarding public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or familial status is prohibited. Sexual violence has no place in a learning or work environment. Further, Minnesota State shall work to eliminate violence in all its forms. Physical contact by designated system, college, and university staff members may be appropriate if necessary to avoid physical harm to persons or property.

This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities. Consumers with hearing or speech disabilities may contact us via their preferred Telecommunications Relay Service.

Complaints should be directed to:

Title IX Coordinator

Damien Paulson, Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management

Office 147

(218) 879-0805

dpaulson@fdltcc.edu

If you require an accommodation for a disability, please contact:

Accessibility Services (Students)

Trish Berger, Accessibility Coordinator

Office 134

(218) 879-0864

trish.berger@fdltcc.edu

Accreditation

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

For additional information regarding regional accreditation, student success, and other areas related to academic accountability, contact the HLC at (800) 621-7440 or visit the website at. For more information about Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s regional accreditation status, see https://www.hlcommission.org/component/directory/?Itemid=&Action=ShowBasic&instid=2141

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is a member of Minnesota State and the American Indian Higher Education Consortium.

Minnesota State comprises 33 state universities, community colleges, technical colleges and combined community and technical colleges located on 54 campuses across the state. The system serves approximately 300,000 students annually in credit-based and non-credit courses.

WINHEC Accreditation

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Anishinaabeg Gikendaasowinan Programs are additionally accredited by the World Indigenous Nations Higher Education Consortium (WINHEC). The collection of programs within Anishinaabeg Gikendaasowinan include:

Academic Programming

Dibaajimowinan: American Indian Studies Program

Elementary Education Bachelor of Science degree 

Niindaa i'weda o'o gikendaasowin: Elementary Teacher Education Program

Miskwaadesi: Early Childhood Development Program

Fine Arts in Ojibwe Traditional Arts

Ojibwemowin: Ojibwe Language Programs

Ojibwemowining: Digital Production & Ojibwe Resource Center

Extension Programming

Ojibwemotaadidaa Omaa Gidakiiminaang: Ojibwe Immersion Program

Preservation of Traditional Arts

Environmental Institute

Ashi-Niswi Giizisoog: 13 Moons Program

Media Arts Productions

Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).

The Criminal Justice / Peace Officer program at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is approved by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).

Accreditation Commission on Education in Nursing (ACEN)

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Commission on Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Minnesota Board of Nursing (BON).

National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP)

The College in the Schools program at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is accredited by the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP).

National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.

Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)

The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) has approved the B.S. in Elementary Education program at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College leading to teacher licensure.

All policies and provisions within this publication are subject to change without notice.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is a Clery Act compliant campus and follows Title IX policies.

II. General Information

Accident/Incident Reporting & First Aid

A formal report of all accidents or incidents which occur on campus or during a sanctioned college activity must be made within 24 hours of the accident or incident.

For an accident/injury, follow these steps:

· If able, escort the injured person to the information desk to complete an incident report.

· If the injury is severe, call 911 and then the nursing department (ext. #846) for assistance.

· When the situation is stable and medical assistance has been called, notify an administrator.

· Complete an incident report at the information desk or the online form. Information desk staff will give incident reports to the executive financial officer who will review with facilities staff to determine possible safety issues where the injury occurred. Information will be kept on file in the office of the executive financial officer.

Attendance

Students are expected to attend all classes. In case of absence, it is the responsibility of the student to arrange for completion of class work. Attendance may affect the student’s grade because of missed instruction and/or in-class or laboratory activities. It is the student’s responsibility to read each instructor’s syllabus at the beginning of each semester. This will explain the effect of absenteeism on grades.

Class Cancellation

Notification of class cancellations by the instructor will be posted on campus and on the college website. If no announcement is made, students should remain for ten minutes after the class is scheduled to begin unless a longer delay has been specifically announced.

Inclement Weather

College classes will be held as scheduled unless announcements are made to cancel all classes and campus activities. Students are advised to listen to Duluth/Cloquet area radio stations or watch Duluth television stations for announcements of school closing.

The stations used for such broadcasts include but are not limited to:

WKLK FM, AM KDAL AM KBJR-NBC WDIO-ABC KDLH-CBS KQDS-FOX

Official notices of campus closings will be posted on the college’s website and Facebook page as soon as possible.

Emergency Notification System

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College utilizes an emergency notification messaging system to alert students of campus-related emergencies. This system employs text, voicemail, and email messaging to communicate with students during emergencies. In such events, notifications will be sent via text message and/or voicemail to the student’s phone number and/or via email to the provided email address.

The emergency notification system is reserved exclusively for emergency situations. For instance, in the event of a crisis affecting the campus, a message will be disseminated through this system. It will also be utilized to inform students and employees about campus closures due to weather conditions.

Participation in the emergency notification system is voluntary; students must register to receive these alerts. Students at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College are encouraged to sign up for the emergency notification system via a link available on the college website. Each semester, emails are sent to remind students to register for the notification system.

FDLTCC’s Emergency Alert System - Sign Up

Enroll in FDLTCC’s emergency alert system to receive notifications via email, text, or phone call. Register on the college’s website at: finalsiteconnect.com.

*Note: If you are already registered, you can log in to update your information.*

Carlton County Emergency Alert System

This system allows Carlton County to promptly provide critical information in various situations, including severe weather, unexpected road closures, missing persons, and building or neighborhood evacuations. Time-sensitive messages will be delivered to locations you specify, such as home, mobile, or business phones, email addresses, text messages, and more. The choice of where and how you receive these alerts is yours.

Learn more: Carlton County Emergency Alerts, https://www.carltoncountymn.gov/262/Emergency-Alerts

Cloquet Police Department Nixle Alert System

Register with Nixle to receive emergency alerts from the Cloquet Police Department by texting the zip code 55720 to 888777 and following the prompts, or by visiting Nixle Registration, https://local.nixle.com/register and entering the required information.

Contacting Students on Campus

Students may provide the main telephone number for Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College - (218) 879-0800 or (800) 657-3712 -as an emergency contact phone number. This number should be used for emergencies only. Please do not give it out as a work or routine message number.

Child Care

Licensed childcare services are available at the campus facility. The childcare service is operated on an independent contract and is not operated by Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. Need-based financial assistance is available to those who qualify. See the financial aid director for further information.

Emergency

Fire

In the event of a fire alarm, evacuate the building quickly but as cautiously as possible. Do not use the elevator. Leave the building using the nearest exit.

Tornado

In case of a tornado, stay away from interior locations that contain glass. Take shelter inside a classroom and/or hallway away from all swinging doors.

Other Emergency

In case of an emergency, call 911.

Other services may be available by calling the maintenance department at any of the following phone numbers:

(218) 590-3357

(218) 879-0706

(218) 879-0719

Students may also contact the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management at (218) 879-0805 or the campus switchboard at (218) 879-0800 during regular business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Food Service

Meals are available for purchase at the Thunder Deli Monday through Thursday on days school is in session during fall and spring semesters. Vending machines for soft drinks and snacks are available during building hours.

Housing

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is proud to be offering on-campus housing. Housing will be available to any full-time students (12 or more credits) enrolled at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. Policies for the housing facility may be found in the Housing Handbook on the Campus Housing webpage at https://fdltcc.edu/admissions/campus-housing/. For more information, visit the housing office located inside the housing facility's main entrance or call the housing director at (218) 590-3345 (cell).

Identification Cards

All students enrolling in classes at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College may choose to obtain an official college identification card. Times during which IDs will be issued will be posted outside the admissions office during the first week of each semester. For more information, contact the admissions office at (218) 879-0808 or via email at admissions@fdltcc.edu.

Immunizations

Minnesota state law requires students to be immunized against mumps, measles, rubella, diphtheria, and tetanus if they were born on or after January 1, 1957, in order to be enrolled in postsecondary institutions. The Immunization Law states that no student may remain enrolled in a postsecondary educational institution without proof of immunization unless the student has submitted a statement that they have received the appropriate medical exemption as outlined in the law, or the student submits a notarized statement that they have not been immunized because of the student’s conscientiously held belief. Students who graduated from a Minnesota high school in 1997 or later do not need to provide proof of immunization, as that information is included on their high school transcripts.

Immunization forms and further information can be obtained from Admissions.

Library

The Ruth A. Myers Library/Ojibwe Archives gives students access to resources that support learning in the classroom and promotes information literacy skills for the lifelong exploration of new ideas. The library collection includes physical and electronic materials including books, periodicals, DVDs, streaming videos, and scholarly databases with special emphasis on Anishinaabe collections. Library staff are available to help students find quality resources and navigate the research process. The library provides public and private study spaces for individual and group study. A student ID is needed to check out resources from the library.

Lost and Found

Students are cautioned not to leave valuables unattended on campus. The college is not responsible for lost articles. A Lost and Found service is located at the information desk in the main lobby.

Parking

Parking and driving on campus are permitted in accordance with the following regulations:

1. Students and staff must honor the posting for Disability Parking Certificates, Fire Zones, Pick-Up and Drop-Off, and No Parking areas.

2. Parking is not allowed in yellow-lined areas.

3. Speeding and driving recklessly is prohibited.

4. Vehicles may be towed at the owner’s expense.

5. Tickets may be issued to violators.

6. Overflow parking is available in the lot directly across 14th Street.

III. Bookstore

The Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Bookstore is located at the south entrance on the main floor of the campus. The bookstore is owned and operated by Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College and is dedicated to supporting the academic mission of the college.

Textbook Purchasing Information:

Procedures and Useful Tips for Purchasing Textbooks:

· Bring your personal class schedule to the college bookstore to verify your course titles and numbers. Books are available for purchase one month before the semester begins.

· Students can view and purchase books and materials online via the college bookstore webpage at bookstore.fdltcc.edu.

· The bookshelves are labeled in alphabetical order by course title, number, and section. Always cross-reference the semester booklist with your class schedule before purchasing your textbooks.

· If used textbooks are available for a class, they are always displayed first, and usually sell first.

· When you are ready to purchase your books, please inform the bookstore staff of your method of payment (cash, check, or authorized financial aid award charge).

· Many students are eligible to charge their books and supplies against their financial aid award. To charge, you must have your financial aid award process completed (a list of eligible students is forwarded to the bookstore prior to the start of the semester) and your eight-digit student ID number. Please note: Charging against your financial aid award ends on the fifth day of the semester.

· Keep your receipt! It is required for textbook returns. Please see Textbook Returns Policy for details.

· If at any time you need assistance, please do not hesitate to ask.

Check Cashing Policy

Personal checks are accepted in the amount of purchase only. Two-party checks are not accepted. A twenty-dollar service charge will be assessed on all returned checks, and a hold will be placed on your records until restitution is made.

Textbook Returns Policy

A student who drops a course may return their textbook for a refund by complying with the bookstore returns policy as follows:

· Textbook returns must be made within five (5) class days from the first day of the semester.

· New books must be in perfect condition to be returned (shrink-wrap must be intact, no writing or highlighting, book is complete).

· Students MUST HAVE a drop sheet from the records office.

· Students MUST HAVE an original cash register receipt.

· Refunds will be made by check and mailed to the student or applied to the student’s account. No cash refunds will be given. Refund amounts will first be applied to any outstanding balance owed to Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.

· Please return textbooks as early as possible for the benefit of other students who may need them.

Return of Merchandise Other than Textbooks

Merchandise may be returned for a refund or exchange within 30 days from the date of purchase. Merchandise must be accompanied by a dated cash register receipt. Any merchandise being returned must be in salable condition. Refunds will be made through the Bank Mobile system. Refund amounts will first be applied to any outstanding balance owed to Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.

Book Buy Back

The bookstore offers a ‘used book buy back’ during final exam week each fall and spring semester. During the scheduled buying period, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students will have the opportunity to sell most of their used textbooks. Specific dates and times are posted on campus, in the college bookstore, and at bookstore.fdltcc.edu.

IV. Student Activities

The Student Organization Office Area and Meeting Room are Room 242. If you have any questions, please contact (218) 590-3345.

Student Governance

The Anishinaabe Student Council and the Student Senate comprise the student body governing structure at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. This dual governance advocates on behalf of students and provides all students with representative leadership, avenues of communication, and representation to decision makers. Students enrolled at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College can serve as members of the Anishinaabe Student Council, Student Senate and the Student Life Subcommittee. For more information about student leadership on campus, please call (218) 590-3345.

The Anishinaabe Student Council ensures Native American representation and participation in the development of higher education process in affiliation with local, state, federal and tribal entities.

The Student Life Subcommittee is a cooperative group of the Anishinaabe Student Council and Student Senate and is comprised of six students and two advisors.

The Student Life Subcommittee organizational structure, responsibilities, and operating procedures are defined by the Student Life by-laws. It is required to adhere to the policies for student life/activity committees as defined by the American Indian Higher Education Consortium and Minnesota State.

Student Clubs and Activities

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College offers a wide variety of clubs and activities based on student interest and initiative. Existing clubs include Thunder Ambassadors, Anishinaabe Student Council, Creative Writing Club, Environmental Science Club, , Human Services Club, Criminal Justice / Peace Officer Club, ADN Nursing Club, Phi Theta Kappa, Student Senate, Thunder Rocketry Club, The Disc Golf Club, The Pride Club, ASPIRE LEADERSHIP Business Club, Dungeons and Dragons Club, The Badminton Club, and The Elementary Education Club .

Cultural Events and Activities

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College student organizations sponsor various events throughout the year, and all students and community members are invited to attend. Some of the activities include Welcome Week (First Week of Fall and Spring Semesters), the annual pow wow (Mid-March), the Giving Thanks and Veterans Feast (Mid-November), and Graduate Recognition Day (The Day Before Commencement).

For more information on how to participate in these events, students are encouraged to contact Jesse Stirewalt, Director of Housing and Student Activities. Jesse can provide details on event schedules, ways to get involved, and opportunities for students to enrich their college experience through campus activities. Reach Jesse at 218-590-3345 or jstirewalt@fdltcc.edu.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College cares for the teaching drum, Debwewidam (Heard from a distance). Students, staff and faculty are invited to learn from him; and all are welcome to participate in events held on campus.

V. Academic Advising and Instructional Information

General Admission

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is an open-door institution and seeks to admit students in a manner designed to ensure the best opportunity for their educational success. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s academic offerings provide opportunities for training and education to students from a broad range of ability levels and interests.

Placement Policy and Procedures

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College offers many options for placement:

1. The college can use Accuplacer, ACT, SAT, and MCA scores for course placement;

2. If students do not have scores from the tests previously listed, the High School Grade Point Average (GPA) or guided self-placement will be used to place students into courses; and

3. Students may also use previously passed English and Math courses for placement; please request that your previous college/university send us an official transcript and inform our admissions staff.

Please contact a Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College advisor or program coordinator to register for classes and to discuss course placement options.

Academic Advising

Advisors are available to assist students in a variety of ways. Students can meet with advisors in person, or schedule appointments virtually through Zoom, phone, or North Star, https://fdltcc.starfishsolutions.com/starfish-ops. Advisors help students choose appropriate courses and assist with transfers to other colleges. Students should consult with an advisor prior to each registration period. A regular transcript review with an advisor is highly recommended.

A typical advising session begins with a discussion of the student’s academic goals, interests, and any concerns they might have. The advisor reviews the student’s academic record and helps interpret degree requirements, ensuring the student is on track for graduation or transfer. Together, they select courses for the upcoming term, taking into account prerequisites, scheduling preferences, and the student’s workload. Advisors also provide information about campus resources, extracurricular opportunities, and answer any questions about policies or procedures. Sessions often end with a review of next steps and a plan for follow-up, offering students a clear path forward in their academic journey.

Transfer Programs

It is helpful for students to decide, as soon as possible, their academic major as well as the college to which they plan to transfer; consult the college catalog for transfer policies; and to plan programs at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College with the assistance of an academic advisor or with a program coordinator.

Faculty Availability

Students can confer with faculty during their scheduled office hours and by appointment. Instructor schedules are posted on the bulletin board outside the Faculty Office on the second floor and on the college website.

Tutoring / Center for Academic Achievement

The Center for Academic Achievement (CAA) offers tutoring and many other services to students free of charge. Help is offered for improving study habits, test-taking skills, and time management. Trained peer and professional tutors are available.

Accessibility Services

To be eligible for accessibility-related services at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, students must have a documented diagnosis as defined by Federal law- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 1990 and the 2008 ADA Amendments (ADAA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Minnesota RISE Act of 2024Under the ADA and Section 504, a person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities. ADA does not require colleges to provide personal assistants, individual personal tutors, or personal assistive technology. Student Accessibility Services may refer students to local resources/agencies which may be able to assist with these services.

Under the ADAA, major life activities were expanded and now include major bodily functions.

Qualifying Diagnoses under ADAA
Major Life Activities:
· caring for oneself,	· performing manual tasks	· seeing	· hearing
· eating	· sleeping	· walking	· standing
· lifting	· bending	· speaking	· breathing
· learning	· reading	· concentrating	· thinking
· communicating	· working
Major Bodily Functions:
· Immune system	· Normal cell growth	· digestive	· bowel
· bladder	· neurological	· brain	· respiratory
· circulatory	· endocrine	· reproductive

At least two weeks before the start of each semester, students should contact the Accessibility Services Coordinator in office 134 at (218) 879-0864, MN Relay 711, or at trish.berger@fdltcc.edu to request services.

Disability related documentation may include assessments, reports, and/or letters from qualified evaluators, professionals, or institutions. Common sources of documentation are health care providers, psychologists, and diagnosticians. Copies of accommodations approved from a previous school(s) such as accommodation agreements/letters, 504 plans, IEPs, ARD documents and/or standardized exams can be used as qualifying documentation under The RISE Act of MN. The school may request other supporting documentation if necessary. Documentation must include students’ full name, diagnosis and summary of needs if available. The cost of obtaining documentation is at the expense of the student.

If students need accommodations that are more time consuming to set up, such as sign language interpreting or receiving PDFs of textbooks for use with text-to-speech software, it is best to contact Accessibility Services at least one month prior to the start of each semester so these services will be available at the beginning of each semester.

Accessibility Services may include but are not limited to:

· Temporary Medical Conditions

· Assistive technology

· Adaptive equipment

· Testing accommodations - More time if needed and private testing area

· Note taking assistance

· Taped lectures

· Sign language interpreting

· Readers and scribes

· Document conversion

· PDFs of textbooks for use with text-to-speech software

· Accommodations are based on the individual student, disability, and the academic environment

· Scheduled check in meetings

· Resource referral

· Orientation to the building with Maps

· Course registration review

· General support

In the event a student is hospitalized, the student would contact the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management, Damien Paulson (Office 147) at (218) 879-0805. Office personnel will notify faculty members of the situation. This notification does not mean the student will be excused from class. No retroactive notice of absence will be sent.

Temporary Medical Conditions

Students enrolled at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College may at some time seek assistance in accessing the learning environment due to a temporary medical condition. Temporary medical conditions are ones that are expected to be resolved in a matter of weeks or a few months, e.g., a broken arm, or a broken leg or infectious mononucleosis.

We will address each request and offer assistance when circumstances allow. Some accommodations may include assistive technology devices, referrals to local resources if needed, temporary parking spaces, and building accessibility orientation.

Accessibility Services will attempt to assist students experiencing temporary medical conditions in their efforts to remain in the university setting. Accessibility Services will provide services within reasonable means. Please contact Trish Berger, Accessibility Services Coordinator, to establish an accommodation plan. She can be reached at trish.berger@fdltcc.edu or 218-879-0864.

Pregnant and Parenting Student Information

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College supports and accommodates pregnant and parenting students under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (June 23) from the US Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, “Supporting the Academic Success of Pregnant and Parenting Students.”

Ashley Tegels, (218) 879-0898, ashley.tegels@fdltcc.edu, Office W118 is Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Student Parent Navigator Designee.

Student Absence due to Pregnancy

A student’s absence because of pregnancy or childbirth, or any medically related condition, must be excused as long as the student’s doctor deems the absence medically necessary. When a student returns, she must be allowed to return to the same academic and co-curricular status as prior to her leave.

If absences are due to pregnancy, faculty must allow a student to submit work after the deadline and earn class attendance and participation points. The faculty member will work with the student to determine how to make up missed work and points.

A school may offer the student alternatives to making up missed work, from which the student should be allowed to choose. Possible alternatives include the following: retaking the semester; taking part in an online format to complete the course; or continuing at the same pace, finishing at a later date by allowing the student additional time in a program.

Services for Pregnant/Parenting Students

Pregnant students will be provided with special services under the inclusion of a temporary medical condition. Accessibility Services will determine and coordinate appropriate services. Medical certification will be requested through Accessibility Services.

Pregnant students may be allowed additional services based upon functional limitations imposed by the pregnancy. Examples may include requiring a larger desk; being allowed frequent trips to the bathroom; and being permitted access to elevators.

As a reminder, there are designated spaces on campus for students who may be breastfeeding. The lactation rooms are available in Room 244 in the Student Union near the Relaxation Room. The other lactation rooms are available upon request near the Nursing Program.

The Student Family Support Center is a support program for students trying to balance the responsibilities of parenting, family, and work with the goals of achieving a college education and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The Student Family Support Center room is located in Room 244. This room is a family-friendly environment that anyone can use for studying, breastfeeding, expressing and storing breast milk, and feeding small children.

Mental Health Support

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College provides a variety of mental health resources to support students’ well-being. These services are accessible through several channels and are designed to address a wide range of needs.

· 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 at any time to be connected with a trained crisis counselor for immediate mental health support.

· TXT4LIFE: Text “LIFE” to 61222 for confidential support when you need someone to talk to.

· PAVSA 24-Hour Crisis Line: For support regarding sexual violence, call 218-726-1931.

· Minnesota Crisis Hotline: Access support at 1-800-634-8775.

· MANTRA- Log in | Mantra Health

Students can also access in-person mental health support during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, either by walk-in or by scheduling an appointment with college staff:

· Barbara McLean, Counselor: (218) 879-0819

· Ashley Tegels, Resource Navigator: (218) 879-0898

· Damien Paulson, Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management: (218) 879-0805

Types of Therapy and Support Available:

· Short-term individual counseling sessions

· Crisis intervention and immediate emotional support

· Referrals to external community agencies for long-term or specialized therapy (such as ongoing counseling, substance use treatment, or psychiatric evaluation)

· Group support sessions or workshops may be available periodically based on student interest and needs

How to Access Services:

· Contact the counselor, Resource Navigator, or Student Services directly by phone or visit their offices during business hours

· Referral to off-campus providers may be initiated by staff or upon student request, especially if the need exceeds what can be provided on campus

Referral Process and Limits:

· Initial counseling on campus is generally short-term and solution-focused

· When ongoing, specialized, or long-term therapy is required, staff will provide referrals to appropriate local providers or agencies

· Confidentiality is maintained throughout the process, and participation in counseling or therapy is voluntary

· All currently enrolled students are eligible for these services, but availability may be subject to staff capacity and appointment scheduling

Additional resources on campus include a Relaxation Room in the Student Family Support Center by the Student Union, as well as private study and prayer rooms available upon request.

Resource Navigator

The Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Resource Navigator assists students in overcoming specific barriers through programmatic efforts, referral, and advocacy to supportive services within the college community, the Fond du Lac Reservation, and the larger community in which the campus resides, in a welcoming, culturally diverse environment.

Examples of referrals and supportive services include on-campus services, chemical health, mental health, food shelves, clothing, county/state benefits, emergency shelter, health care, housing, and childcare.

Any currently enrolled Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College student is eligible to receive services.

Contact the on-campus Resource Navigator, Ashley Tegels, at (218) 879-0898 to set up an appointment. You will need to fill out an intake packet and meet with the Resource Navigator. The Resource Navigator will then review your intake packet and together you will assess your needs. From there, we will form an action plan with goals to overcome barriers. However, if you feel the concern is urgent, please come to Office W118.

Students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to contact the Resource Navigator if they are concerned about a current student. If you think a student may benefit from the program, we welcome you to share your concerns by making a referral by phone or in person.

Office hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Accessibility Services

To be eligible for disability-related services at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, students must have a documented disability condition as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) of 2008. Under the ADA and Section 504, a person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities.

Under the ADAAA, major life activities were expanded and now include major bodily functions. Major life activities include, but are not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, and working. Major bodily functions include, but are not limited to, functions of the immune system, normal cell growth, digestive, bowel, bladder, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine, and reproductive functions.

At least two weeks before the start of each semester, students should contact the Accessibility Services Coordinator in Office 134 at (218) 879-0864, MN Relay 711, or at trish.berger@fdltcc.edu to request services. Students recently out of high school who received accommodations in high school need to submit copies of their 504 Plans or IEPs/Individual Education Plans (3-Year Review IEPs provide the information needed about the assessment of their disability). If students are transferring to Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College from another college or university, they should submit information about their disability and the accommodations they received from their previous college or university.

If students are not recently out of high school or college and/or if they have never received accommodations before, they need to request disability-related documents from the appropriate licensed professional to certify they have a disability and to determine reasonable accommodations. If initial documentation is incomplete or inadequate to determine the extent of the disability, disability services has the right to require additional documentation. The cost of obtaining documentation is at the expense of the student.

If students need accommodations that are more time consuming to set up, such as sign language interpreting or receiving PDFs of textbooks for use with text-to-speech software, it is best to contact Accessibility Services at least one month prior to the start of each semester so these services will be available at the beginning of each semester.

Accessibility Services may include but are not limited to:

· Assistive technology

· Adaptive equipment

· Testing accommodations

· Note taking assistance

· Taped lectures

· Sign language interpreting

· Readers and scribes

· Document conversion

· PDFs of textbooks for use with text-to-speech software

· Referrals for assessment of suspected disabilities

TRIO: Student Support Services

TRIO is here to help students gain the confidence and skills necessary to succeed in college and accomplish their educational goals. Adjusting to college life can present challenges and the transition is made easier through the supportive and caring environment created by the student support services program.

TRIO aims to serve low income, first generation, and/or students with disabilities to achieve their educational goals. Students will be able to request professional tutoring services as well as full academic advising. TRIO provides resources and workshops in several areas such as financial literacy, study skills and organization, and transfer to 175 eligible students each year.

Career Resources

Career Resources

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students have access to a wide range of career resources and personalized support through the Career Resource Center, located in the student services department. Students can benefit from guidance on career exploration, labor market information, transfer requirements, and job search strategies.

FDLTCC’s Counselor is available to assist students with their career planning, answer questions, and provide individualized advice. For more information about career resources at FDLTCC, please contact Counselor Barb McClean barbara.mclean@fdltcc.edu, 218 879 0819 or any of the advisors in the student services area on campus.

Student Success

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College promotes access to higher education through its general education and academic programming. Four emphases cut across the curriculum: Ability to Communicate, Problem Solving, Information Literacy, and Culture. The college assesses students’ knowledge in these “Competencies Across the Curriculum” at classroom, program, and institutional levels. In addition, the college monitors student success by reviewing data regarding retention, transfer, and completion rates; transfer profiles; performance on state licensure exams; and performance on national surveys such as the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE), Survey of Entering Student Engagement (SENSE), and ETS Proficiency Profile.

The college also uses “hands on” measures to promote student success. The college employs professional and peer tutors to work individually and in study groups with students. Faculty and staff work jointly on the academic alert process to support students who experience academic difficulty each semester. The college monitors student progress by using an early alert communication platform called North Star. The college’s reporting processes are held at strategic points each semester. Faculty identify students who are not making academic progress by submitting information on current grades and attendance. In turn, student services staff will follow-up with students who are not performing well academically; to intervene and to recommend college services and resources in an effort to help a student get back on track.

North Star

Student success is at the heart of what Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College staff, faculty, and administration strive to achieve. To help support our students in their educational journeys, the college uses a communication platform called North Star. We encourage Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students to visit the North Star webpage to watch video tutorials and to log into the platform to begin using its features.

VI. Privacy of Education Records

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College accumulates personal information on each student enrolled. This complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C.

§1232g, 34 CFR 99; the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, (MGDPA) Minn. Stat. Ch 13, Minn. Rules Ch 1205; and other applicable laws and regulations concerning the handling of education records. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College shall respect the privacy of education records and the rights of students to manage their records, as provided by applicable law. This policy is adopted in furtherance of those principles.

Definitions

The following definitions apply for the purpose of this policy:

Student

An individual currently or formerly enrolled or registered, applicants for enrollment or registration, or individuals who receive shared time educational services from Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. Students include individuals who are taking instruction in any form including, but not limited to: in- person, correspondence, videoconference, satellite, internet, or other electronic information and telecommunications technologies.

Educational data or education records

Data in any form directly relating to an individually identifiable student maintained by or on behalf of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. Education records do not include:

1. financial records of the student’s parents or guardian;

2. confidential letters or statements of recommendation placed in education records before January 1, 1975, or after January 1, 1975, if the student waived right of access;

3. records of instructional personnel that are kept in the sole possession of the maker and are not accessible or revealed to any other individual except a temporary substitute for the maker and are destroyed at the end of the school year;

4. records of law enforcement units (if law enforcement unit is a separate entity and the records are maintained exclusively by and for law enforcement purposes);

5. employment records related exclusively to a student’s employment capacity (not employment related to status as a student, such as work study) and not available for use for any other purpose;

6. medical and psychological treatment records that are maintained solely by the treating professional for treatment purposes;

7. records that are created or received by Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College after the individual is no longer a student in attendance and are not directly related to the individual’s attendance as a student (alumni data).

Notice of Policy

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College shall protect the rights of students regarding their education records, as provided by applicable law. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College shall annually inform students of their rights in the student handbook and college catalog. Additionally, the handbook and catalog will be available for inspection through the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management.

Subject Access to Records

All students at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College have the same rights regarding their education records regardless of age.

Consent for Release Generally Required

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College will not disclose or permit access by a third party to personally identifiable information contained in education records without the written consent of the student except as permitted or required by applicable law. A copy of an informed consent release form is available in the admissions office. A written consent is valid if it: 1) specifies the records that may be disclosed; 2) states the purpose of the disclosure; 3) identifies the party or class of parties to whom the disclosure may be made; and 4) is signed and dated by the student. If the release is for disclosure to an insurer or its representative, the release must also include an expiration date no later than one year from the original authorization, or two years for a life insurance application. If the student requests, the school shall provide him or her with a copy of the records released pursuant to the informed consent.

Release without Consent

As allowed by the MGDPA and FERPA, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College may release non‑public information from education records without consent as follows:

1. to school officials who have a legitimate educational interest, including contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has outsourced institutional services or functions if access to education records is required in order to perform their assigned responsibilities;

2. to officials of other schools in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, or where the student is already enrolled or receives services so long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer;

3. to federal, state, or local officials or agencies authorized by law;

4. in connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid;

5. to accrediting organizations or organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College as permitted by law;

6. in compliance with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena, provided a reasonable effort is made to notify the student in advance unless such subpoena for law enforcement purposes specifically directs the institution not to disclose the existence of a subpoena;

7. to appropriate persons in connection with a health or safety emergency, as permitted by law;

8. to an alleged victim of a crime of violence (as defined in 18 U.S.C. Sect 16) or non-forcible sex offense, the final results of the alleged student perpetrator’s disciplinary proceeding;

9. as permitted by law, a finding of a violation of the institution’s rules or policies constituting a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense as defined by federal law;

10. as permitted by law, information about sex offenders.

School Officials with Legitimate Educational Interest

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College will release information in student education records to appropriate school officials as indicated in (1) above when there is a legitimate educational interest. A school official includes, but is not limited to, a person employed by Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position; a person or company with whom the College has contracted for services (such as an attorney, auditor, technology services provider, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official college committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. 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.

Record of Requests for Disclosure

Where required by law, a record of requests for disclosure and such disclosure of personally identifiable information from student education records shall be maintained by the college’s Registrar for each student and will also be made available for inspection pursuant to this policy. If the College discovers that a third party who has received student records from the institution has released or failed to destroy such records in violation of this policy, it will prohibit access to educational records for five (5) years. Records of requests for disclosure no longer subject to audit nor presently under request for access will be maintained according to the school’s applicable records retention policy.

Directory Information

The following information on students at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is designated as public directory information, which is available upon request as required by the MGDPA:

1. student’s name

2. major field of study

3. dates of attendance

4. degrees, honors and awards received

5. student ID number, user ID, STAR ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc. (a student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose)

6. enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate, graduate, full-time, or part-time)

Notice to Students of Right to Suppress Directory Information

Students may direct that any or all of the above-listed Directory Information be withheld from public disclosure by notifying the Records Office in writing. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College shall honor such a non-disclosure request unless or until it is rescinded, including after the individual is no longer a student.

Limited Directory Information

Student email addresses and Star ID numbers are defined as limited directory data for enterprise technology related purposes internal to the Minnesota State system that are approved by System Office IT, including, but not limited to, inclusion of email addresses and Star ID numbers in a directory accessible to Minnesota State students and employees.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this policy, the following information is defined as Limited Directory Data for purposes of sharing with LeadMN so the association can communicate with their members: Student name, e-mail address, and Student Change Code (NEW/RTN/DROP).

Access to Education Records by Student

Upon written request, the College shall provide a student with access to their education records. There is no charge for viewing the records even if the college or university is required to make a copy of the data in order to provide access. Responses to requests by students to review their education records shall be within ten business days.

Upon requests, the meaning of educational data shall be explained to the student by the Records Office personnel assigned to, and designated by, the appropriate office.

Students have the right to review only their own records. When a record contains private information about others, such information will be redacted before disclosure.

Students wishing to request access to their educational records should be directed to the appropriate offices.

A. Academic Records

Records Office and Admissions: See Registrar

B. Student Services Records

Counseling Office: See VP of Student Services and Enrollment Management

Student Activities Office: See VP of Student Services and Enrollment Management

Student Services: See VP of Student Services and Enrollment Management

C. Financial Records

Business Office: See Executive Financial Officer

Financial Aid Office: See Director of Financial Aid

Challenge to Record

Students may challenge the accuracy or completeness of their education records. Note: the right to challenge a grade may not be made under this policy unless the grade was allegedly inaccurately recorded. Other challenges to grades shall be according to the college’s Grade Appeals process.

Students who believe that their education records contain information that is inaccurate, misleading, incomplete or is otherwise in violation of their privacy rights may challenge their record through the following procedure:

The student must submit a written request to the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College official who is the custodian of the record, which is signed and dated by the student, and includes sufficient information to identify the challenged record and explanation of the reason that the amendment should be made. The student will be notified in writing within 30 days of the decision; if agreement is reached with respect to the student’s request, the appropriate records will be amended, and a reasonable attempt will be made to notify past recipients of inaccurate or incomplete data, including recipients named by the student. If the record will not be amended as requested, the student will be informed of his/her right to a formal hearing and of the right to place a statement in the education record commenting on the information in the record and the reasons for disagreement with the decision. The statements will be placed in and maintained as part of the student’s education records and released whenever the records in question are disclosed.

Student requests for a formal hearing must be made in writing to the Minnesota Commissioner of Administration within 60 days of receiving the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College written decision. The request must be directed to: Commissioner of Administration, State of Minnesota, 50 Sherburne Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55155, who, within a reasonable period of time after receiving the request, will inform the student of further proceedings, which may include the date, place and the time of the hearing. The hearing will be conducted by the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) and according to the procedures set forth in Minn. Stat. Ch. 14.

The education records will be corrected or amended in accordance with the decision of OAH if the decision is in favor of the student. If the decision is unsatisfactory to the student, the student may place with the education records statements commenting on the information in the records or statements setting forth any reasons for disagreeing with the decision of the hearing officer, or both. The statements will be placed in and maintained as part of the student’s education records and released whenever the records in question are disclosed.

Copies

Students may have copies of their education records. The copies of records may be made at the student’s expense, depending on the nature of the request. Official transcripts will be $8.65.

Complaints

Complaints regarding alleged failures to comply with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) may be brought to the college’s Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management or submitted in writing to the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

Complaints about compliance with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA) may be brought to the college’s VP of Student Services and Enrollment Management, or to the Minnesota Commissioner of Administration, or to the Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings.

VII. Changes in Registration

Dropping and Adding a Class

Students are entitled to attend the first-class session without obligation. Students may drop or add classes at any time during the first five class days of each semester with no obligation for tuition or fees for the class. Students are obligated for any classes dropped after the first five class days of each semester. If a student is obligated for a dropped class, the amount of the tuition and/or fees for the dropped class may be applied to the cost of an added class for the current term.

If a fee for a dropped class is for the recovery of costs already incurred by the campus, refund of such fees is at the discretion of the president.

If students drop a course during the first five class days of the semester, no grade(s) will be recorded on their permanent record. Courses that are not officially dropped through the Records Office will be recorded on the student’s permanent record with a grade of F or FN.

Withdrawal from a Class

If students withdraw from one or more courses after the first five class days of each term, but no later than the day on which 80% of a course has been competed, a W (withdrawal) will be recorded. For Summer Session, students must withdraw no later than the day on which 80% of a course has been completed. Withdrawals are not permitted following the conclusion of a course.

Students who wish to completely withdraw from one or more courses are required to do so officially by completing the proper form in the Records and Registration Office. Students must consult with an advisor before withdrawing from a course.

Total Withdrawal

Tuition refunds for students who totally withdraw from all classes will be in accordance with the following schedule. This schedule does not apply to students who are subject to the requirements of the federal pro-rata regulations.

Fall and Spring terms and other terms at least 10 weeks in length:

Withdrawal Period	Refund %
1^st through 5^th class day of term	100
6^th through 10^th class day of the term	75
11^th through 15^th class day of the term	50
16^th through 20^th class day of the term	25
after 20^th class day of the term	0

Summer sessions and other terms at least three weeks, but less than ten weeks in length:

Withdrawal Period	Refund %
1st through 5^th class day of term	100
6^th through 10^th class day of the term	50
after 10^th class day of the term	0

Special terms less than three weeks in length:

Withdrawal Period	Refund %
1st through 5th class day of term	100
2^nd class day of the term	50
after 2^nd class day of the term	0

Return of Title IV (R2T4) and State Funds Policy

Any student who receives Federal Financial Aid (Title IV aid) and withdraws from all classes may be required to return Federal Financial Aid. Students who attend more than 60% of the term are considered to have fully earned their financial aid. However, students who did not attend classes until the 60% point of the term, have unearned financial aid that will need to be returned to the U.S. Department of Education (ED). The percent of the semester completed and correspondingly the percentage of aid earned, is calculated by taking the calendar days attended by the student, divided by the total number of calendar days in the term. If the R2T4 calculation results in an amount to be returned that exceeds the school’s portion, the student must repay some funds. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College returns all funds to ED, then bills the student for the amount returned.

For students who have unearned financial aid, it will be returned in the following order:

1. Unsubsidized Direct Loan (Unsub)
2. Subsidized Direct Loan (Sub)
3. Federal PLUS Loans (PLUS)
4. Federal Pell Grants (Pell)
5. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
6. Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants

Official Withdrawal

When the student officially withdraws from all courses after the semester begins, the Financial Aid Office will use the date on the Total Withdraw Form to determine the portion of the Federal Title IV aid earned (or could have been earned).

Unofficial Withdrawal

A student is said to have “Unofficially Withdrawn” if they stop attending and receive failing grades in all classes. For a student who has been determined to have unofficially withdrawn, the date of withdrawal for purposes of the Return of Title IV refund calculation is the latest date attended (last date of attendance or LDA) reported by faculty for that term.

Timeframe for R2T4

Federal regulation requires the college to calculate the Return to Title IV refunds within 30 days of determining an official or unofficial withdrawal date. Federal regulation requires the college to refund the Title IV funds determined to be unearned to the U.S. Department of Education (ED) within 45 days of determining an official or unofficial withdrawal date.

Post Withdrawal Disbursement

If there is a credit balance, it must be disbursed as soon as possible and no later than 14 days after the calculation of R2T4. In some cases, a student may withdraw from all courses before aid has been disbursed. A post withdrawal disbursement is done when a student shows they have withdrawn from all their classes prior to financial aid disbursement but began attendance in all courses and are qualified for some (earned) aid. For Title IV grant eligibility only, the earned portion of the grant is disbursed to the student account and a letter is sent to student to notify them of their eligibility and right to return funds within 45 days of the date the school determined the student withdrew.

For loan eligibility, a notice is sent to the students before any funding will be processed. The student must tell the college if they want it disbursed to them directly or to their student account. Loan funds accepted by the student will be disbursed within 180 days of the date the school determined the student withdrew.

State Funds

If the student who totally withdrew (officially or unofficially) from classes received State financial aid funding from programs administered by the MN Office of Higher Education, a portion of the unearned funds must be returned if the total withdrawal took place within the first 20 business days of the semester (full semester classes).  Refunds for state aid programs are calculated on a proportional basis using the MN Office of Higher Education’s Refund Calculation Worksheet.

VIII. Grading System

Letter grades will be assigned in each course as an evaluation of student achievement. The student’s overall progress is measured by the grade point average, which is determined by dividing the sum of the grade points earned in all letter-graded courses (A-F) by the sum of all credits earned in those courses.

The following grading policy is used throughout Minnesota State:

Grade	Definition	Grade Points/Credit
A	Superior	4.0
B	Above Average	3.0
C	Average	2.0
D	Below Average	1.0
F	Inadequate (assigned to courses numbered 1000 and above)	0.0
FN	Failure for Non-attendance	0.0
NC	No Credit (not calculated into grade point average; may only be assigned to courses numbered below 1000)	0.0
P	Passing (not calculated into grade point average; limited to approved courses, e.g., student request in Physical Education, Study Skills, workshops, or for those courses specifically designed as pass/no credit)

In addition to grades, the following symbols may be used:

I (Incomplete) denotes lack of completion of the course during the semester in which it was offered. A student has the succeeding semester to complete the incomplete grade. Any incomplete grades carried beyond one semester will be changed to F, unless special arrangements have been made with the instructor.

V (Visitor or Auditor) denotes neither credit nor a grade. A student auditing a course registers and participates in the usual manner, but does not receive credit. Audits must be declared at the time of registration. Tuition and fees are assessed at the same rate as for students receiving credit for the course.

W (Withdrawal) Withdrawals are not permitted following the conclusion of a course. The final date for official course withdrawal is the last day on which students may officially terminate their enrollment in a course and shall be the date on which eighty percent (80%) of the days in the academic semester have elapsed. For courses not on a standard academic semester schedule, the final date for official course withdrawal shall be established as the date on which eighty percent (80%) of the instructional days for the course have elapsed.

Repeat Credits

Repeated courses, whether they are for additional credit, grade improvement, or expiration of credit life, are included in the quantitative (completion rate) and maximum timeframe calculations. Only the highest grade earned, however, will be used to calculate the GPA. Regardless of how many times a student is approved to repeat a class, a student shall not be permitted to receive financial aid for more than one repetition of a previously passed course.

Repeating a course for additional credit

A student may enroll in some courses more than once. Courses in this category are specified in the course description section in this catalog. The maximum number of credits allowable is stated in the course description. For each enrollment, the student receives credit hours and a grade.

Repeating a course for improvement of grade

Students who received a C, D, F, FN, or NC may repeat the courses in which they received these grades. A student may repeat a course only once. Additional repeats are allowed only if successfully petitioned. A “Request to Repeat a Course” form is available in the Records Office and must be completed at the time of registration. Both the old and new grade will remain on the student’s transcript, but the highest grade earned will be the student’s official grade for the course and calculated into the overall GPA. No course or grade will be removed from the transcript. Courses in which a student has received a grade of A or B are not eligible to be repeated. Each time a course is taken, the credits are included in the quantitative (completion rate) and maximum timeframe calculations on the student’s transcript.

IX. Credit Life

Occupational course credits, including prerequisites, earned more than five years prior to admission into a specific program need the program coordinator’s approval to fulfill current program requirements. Certain occupational areas may have more stringent requirements. Students should meet with the program coordinator to learn more. If the program coordinator requires a course to be repeated to meet the current program requirements, both the old and new grade will remain on the student’s transcript, but the most recent grade earned will be the student’s official grade and calculated into the overall GPA. No course or grade will be removed from the transcript.

X. Grading Policy

Because of its life-long presence on a student’s transcript, a grade is the sole tangible mark of the academic relationship between a faculty member and a student, between teaching and learning. In addition, grades signal to the public levels of competence for the pursuit of higher degrees, academic transfer, scholarships and other awards, or employment. Finally, taken as a whole on transcripts, grades collectively form the basis of conferring academic degrees and academic awards of other types, which are also public measures of academic competence and institutional integrity. For these reasons, the assignment of grades is of central importance to faculty, students, and the institution.

Grade Disputes

In instances when a student believes that a grade has been assigned incorrectly, the student will first seek to resolve any concerns informally by speaking directly with the course instructor. If after speaking with the instructor the dispute has not been resolved, the student, within 30 calendar days after the grade posting, will meet with the vice president of academic affairs to present their concerns. The student will be notified of a decision within 10 working days.

If the student believes the grade in dispute is a product of general intimidation or harassment, the student, within 30 calendar days after the grade posting, can file a formal complaint and have the case heard through the college’s complaint process. If the student believes the grade in dispute is a product of intimidation or harassment based on the student’s protected class, the student can file a complaint pursuant to Board Policy 1.B1 of the Minnesota State System of Colleges and Universities and have the complaint be investigated according to that policy.

Graduation Requirements

Students must consult with counselors/advisors for specific graduation requirements and have a cumulative GPA of 2.00 to graduate. Some programs have more stringent requirements. In addition, students must have a cumulative 2.0 GPA in courses meeting the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum. Please refer to the College Catalog for further details. Students must complete the graduation application in order to receive a degree from the college.

Transcripts

Students may view and print unofficial copies of their transcript through their Student Account.

If you need an official transcript from Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College for a Minnesota State college or university, that institution will be able to obtain your transcript at no charge to you. Please contact the admissions office or registrar at your receiving institution for further information.

To send an official transcript to another college, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has authorized the National Student Clearinghouse to provide transcript ordering via the web, which is the fastest way to get a transcript and is recommended. You can order transcripts using any major credit card. Your card will only be charged after your order has been completed. The National Student Clearinghouse site will walk you through placing your order, including delivery options and fees. You can order as many transcripts as you like in a single session. A processing fee will be charged per recipient. Order updates will be emailed to you. You can also track your order online.

You can also complete a paper form in the Records Office to request official or unofficial transcripts from Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. Please complete, print and submit the form as per the instructions.

Veterans Information and Services

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College offers a resource center as a space for veterans. Veterans, war orphans, and dependents of disabled or deceased veterans have the opportunity to continue their education under the various educational programs administered by the United States Veterans’ Administration.

Veterans may be entitled to educational benefits passed by the federal and state legislatures and may obtain these benefits while pursuing a course of study at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.

Certification of enrollment forms must be completed by the Student Records Office. All inquiries concerning utilizing veteran education benefits should be directed to the Student Records Office. Contact (218) 879-0885 or visit Office 128.

Please see Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s website for more information regarding veteran student policies and VA education benefits: https://fdltcc.edu/student-support/veterans-resources/

XI. Financial Aid

Financial aid is intended to supplement the family when paying for college, but the family bears the primary responsibility to pay. Each student’s eligibility is calculated based on the family size and income submitted on their FAFSA.

Beginning October 1st, 9-10 months prior to the start of the next school year, applicants can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.gov. The college’s Title IV Code is: 031291.

Types of Financial Aid

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College offers a wide range of financial aid resources to students. Students are encouraged to thoroughly investigate and apply for multiple sources of financial aid. The following financial aid programs are available at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College:

Grants

Grants are monetary awards distributed to students, based on need, according to household financial information provided on the FAFSA. Grants do not need to be repaid. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students may be eligible for several types of grants.

Work Study Programs

As part of a financial aid award package, some students may be eligible to work on- campus student jobs or off-campus community service jobs. Most students in Work Study employment spend about ten hours per week in their job. Work Study employment is largely based on their FAFSA information.

Loan Programs

Loans are available to Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students and/or parents of students. There are two types of loans available, defined as need-based loans (subsidized) and non-need-based loans (unsubsidized, private, and/or Parent PLUS). Loans must be repaid, with interest, typically starting after college graduation. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students may access a number of loan programs.

Scholarships

Students research and apply for scholarships on their own. The Financial Aid Office staff at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College are available to assist in this process by directing students to appropriate sources.

Loan and/or work-study awards may be reduced if a student receives additional funding from an outside source. Students must inform the Financial Aid Office if they are receiving funding from an outside source.

Institutional Scholarships at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College

American Indian College Fund – Full Circle

Scholarships are available to students to be used at whatever college they attend.

Faculty Association Scholarship

A scholarship donated by Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s faculty is awarded to students that are eligible for few or no grant funds and show excellence in the classroom.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Foundation Scholarships

Scholarships awarded from funds raised by the college Foundation.

Emergency Funding Resources

For more information about emergency funding resources, visit https://fdltcc.edu/paying-for-college/emergency-aid-programs/.

Ascendium/BEAM Emergency Aid Program:

Supports eligible students at risk of dropping out of college due to unexpected financial emergencies. Eligible expenses include childcare, food/meals, gas, housing/rent, medical/dental expenses, personal automobile expenses, public transportation/bus pass, and utilities. To be eligible for this program, students must be making academic progress (i.e., earning C’s or better) in all classes.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Emergency Grant program supports eligible students at risk of dropping out of college due to unexpected financial emergencies. Eligible expenses include childcare, food/meals, gas, housing/rent, medical/dental expenses, personal automobile expenses, public transportation/bus pass, and utilities. To be eligible for this program, students must be attending classes regularly.

Emergency Loan Program:

Designed to assist students who have an emergency financial need that impacts their ability to remain in classes, students who have filed for and are eligible to receive a state or federal grants, scholarships or student loan are eligible to utilize Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s emergency loan program. In most instances, to be eligible, students must have a source of income coming in during the same semester of the loan request to pay off the balance.

For more information about Financial Aid, please visit the Financial Aid website at: https://fdltcc.edu/paying-for-college/ or contact the Financial Aid Office at dsutherland@fdltcc.edu or kathie@fdltcc.edu

For more information about other Emergency Funding options, please contact Damien Paulson at dpaulson@fdltcc.edu.

Additional Sources

To pay for costs related to a college education, there is a wide range of additional resources students may access. Students should explore as many options as possible either on their own or with the assistance of Financial Aid Office staff.

· Deferred Payment Plans

· G.I. Bill/Veteran’s Benefits (Contact Records Office)

· Rehabilitation Services

· Minnesota Indian Scholarship Program

· Job Training Partnership Act Program (JET, contact local office at 800-325-5332)

· Private foundations and corporations

XII. General Financial Aid Information

Disbursement of Funds

Financial aid funds become available on a designated day each semester. Currently, initial disbursement falls on the ninth (9^th) class day, subject to change. All financial aid is disbursed through BankMobile. All grants, scholarships and loans are first used to pay student tuition, fees, books and/or other charges. If a student has remaining financial aid funds, a refund is processed via BankMobile based on how the student requested the funds.

After the initial disbursement day of each term, financial aid is typically disbursed once weekly. Students can monitor when financial aid has been applied to their account and when a refund has been issued by reviewing their account on the Student eServices webpage, https://fdltcc.edu/student-support/e-services/. BankMobile starter kits are sent to each student to the address on file with the college. It is important that students update the college with any change of address information.

Adding, Dropping and Withdrawing from Classes

Adding, dropping and withdrawing from classes has an impact on financial aid. Students must review their award letter before making enrollment changes to determine the impact it will have on the financial aid award. Financial aid is disbursed based on the classes enrolled in at the end of the fifth day of the term. Classes approved by administration to be added or dropped after the fifth disbursement may impact financial aid so awards may need to be adjusted. Financial aid adjustments can significantly impact students at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College (FDLTCC). Changes in financial aid may affect the amount of funding students receive, which can influence their ability to pay for tuition, books, and other educational expenses. If a student’s financial aid is reduced, they may need to seek additional sources of funding, such as private loans or part-time employment. Conversely, if adjustments result in an increase in financial aid, students may experience less financial stress and have more resources to support their academic journey. It is essential for students to stay informed about their financial aid status and understand how any changes might affect their overall financial plan.

Academic Progress

A student must be making satisfactory academic progress to be eligible to receive financial aid. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Satisfactory Academic Progress policy is included in this handbook and the college catalog.

Buying Books

Books can be charged against your financial aid whenever the bookstore begins selling books for that term. Everyone who has their FAFSA completed may charge their books. A list of everyone who is eligible to charge books is given to the bookstore prior to this date, so students do not need to get a book voucher from the Financial Aid Office. You can only charge books through noon on the fifth day of the term. Students should bring their class registration and their student identification number to the Bookstore if they would like to apply their materials to their account.  They may also visit the Bookstore website at https://fdltcc.edu/student-support/bookstore/ to order their materials for pick up or to be mailed to them.

Paying for Tuition

If you have a FAFSA on Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s financial aid database, then you may have the payment of your tuition deferred until your financial aid is disbursed. Otherwise, you must complete and submit an ‘Administrative Deferment Request’ form (a payment plan) to the Business Office and make the appropriate payment.

Rights and Responsibilities Regarding Financial Aid

Students have the right to:

· Receive sufficient information to understand Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Financial Aid Policies and Procedures.

· Apply for Financial Aid.

· Receive fair and equitable consideration for Financial Aid on a first come, first served basis.

· Discuss eligibility with Financial Aid Staff.

· Request consideration of changes in your application information.

· Appeal decisions regarding your eligibility.

· Request information regarding your loan indebtedness, and repayment options.

· Contact the U.S. Department of Education Student Financial Aid Ombudsman at (877) 557-2575 if you have problems, issues, or questions regarding your financial aid, loan balances, status, and repayment.

Students have the responsibility to:

· Read and respond to all requests for information, notifications, and letters.

· Start a file for all Financial Aid forms, receipts, and records.

· Become knowledgeable about the Financial Aid process and related policies by reading all the emails the school sends to you, reading the school’s printed materials, reviewing information posted to Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Financial Aid website, reading flyers posted outside of the Financial Aid Office, and consulting with Financial Aid Staff. WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW, ASK!

· Become informed of Federal and Minnesota State Financial Aid eligibility requirements via www.studentaid.gov or 800-433-3243 (Federal) or www.ohe.state.mn.us or 651-642-0567 (Minnesota);

· Become informed of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s policies at fdltcc.edu/admissions/about-us/policies-reports/academic-campus-policies;

· Confirm that the school’s Records Office has your current address, phone number, and email address.

· Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress as defined by the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Academic Progress Policy at https://fdltcc.edu/about-us/policies-reports/academic-campus-policies/;

· Meet all application deadlines published by the Financial Aid Office.

· Consult with the Financial Aid Office before you change enrollment (add, drop, or withdraw).

· Pay for your classes. If financial aid doesn’t cover all costs, you must pay the balance.

XIII. Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy

(Policy updated Nov. 27, 2024. This policy is subject to change.)

Qualitative Measure

Grade Point Average (Cumulative GPA)

All students are required to maintain the minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0. All credits are included in the calculations. Determining satisfactory progress begins with the first credit. Grades of A, B, C, D, F and FN will be included in the GPA calculation.

Quantitative Measure

Required Completion Percentage (Rate or Pace)

All students are required to complete a minimum of 67% of cumulative registered credits. All credits are included in the calculations. Determining financial aid satisfactory progress begins with the first credit. At the end of each semester, the College shall compare the number of credits the student successfully completed to the number of credits the student attempted to determine whether the student is progressing at a rate that will allow completion of the program within the maximum time frame. Courses for which a student receives a letter grade of A, B, C, D, and P are included in the calculation of cumulative credit completion percentage as courses successfully completed. Courses for which a student receives a letter grade of I, IP, NC, W, F and FN will be treated as credits attempted but not successfully completed. Blank (Z) grades will be treated as credits attempted but not successfully completed. Audited courses (AU) are not counted into the calculation.

Maximum Time Frame

Students are expected to complete their degree/diploma/certificate (program) within an acceptable period of time. Financial aid recipients may continue to receive aid through 150% of Attempted Credits required for their program(s), excluding the first 30 developmental credits. If students are pursuing multiple programs, their Maximum Time Frame will be based on their longest program (the program with the most credits). This table lists program lengths, in credits, and the corresponding Maximum Time Frame – maximum number of credits – (150% credit limit) they can attempt before being suspended from Financial Aid:

Program Length (Credits)	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	27	28	30	31	32	40	60	64	68
150% Credit Limit	24	25.5	27	28.5	30	31.5	33	40.5	42	45	46.5	48	60	90	96	102

Evaluation Period

Each student’s cumulative Qualitative (i.e. grade point average) and Quantitative (i.e. completion rate) academic performance and maximum time frame status are evaluated following every term. Students in a program that is one semester in length will have their academic performance evaluated at the half‑way point in their program.

Failure to Meet Standards

Warning

1. Warning status. If at the end of the evaluation period a student has not met either the grade point average standard or required completion percentage standard, that student can register for classes and retain their financial aid eligibility under a warning status for one evaluation period. Students will receive a letter indicating their Warning Status, with information on college resources, which they can utilize to avoid being placed on suspension status at the end their second semester.

2. Reinstatement of students on warning status. If at the end of the warning period a student who has been on warning status has met both the cumulative grade point average (2.0 or higher) and cumulative completion percentage status (67% or higher), the student is no longer in a warning status.

Suspension of Students on Warning Status

If at the end of the warning period a student who has been on warning status has not met both the cumulative grade point average (2.0 or higher) and cumulative completion percentage standards (67% or higher), the student will be suspended immediately.

Suspension of Students for Other Reason

1. Suspension for maximum time frame failure. A student exceeding the Maximum Time Frame is immediately suspended from financial aid but may still enroll in classes. (Maximum time frame explanation is explained at top of page).

2. Suspension for extraordinary circumstances. A student may be immediately suspended from classes and/or financial aid in the event of extraordinary circumstances. Extraordinary circumstances may include, but are not limited to, acts of plagiarism; cheating on a test; any act of violence; assault; theft; harassing students, staff, or instructors; disrupting class; student behavior; attendance patterns provide evidence of abuse of the receipt of financial aid; and other circumstances.

3. Suspension for inability to meet program requirements within the maximum time frame. If at the end of any evaluation period it is not possible for a student to raise their GPA or course completion percentage to meet the standards before the student would reach the end of the program for which they are receiving financial aid, their financial aid eligibility will be suspended immediately.

Appeals and Probation

Appeals – Qualitative and Quantitative

A suspended student has the right to appeal based on extraordinary circumstances (death of family member, student’s injury, illness, etc.) There is no time limit on appealing. To appeal, the student must:

· Complete an Academic Appeal with an academic advisor, counselor or program coordinator.

· Write an explanation of the circumstances that affected academic progress on the Petition form. Include supporting documentation if applicable. Also explain what has changed that would allow the student to be successful in their next term;

· Submit the Petition form and Academic Plan to the Records Office at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College;

· Appeals will be reviewed by an Appeal Committee comprised of the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management, the Vice President of Academic Affairs, and the Financial Aid Director or designee;

· If an appeal is denied, the student has the right to appeal the decision to the President of the College. If an appeal is approved, the student is placed on Probationary status.

Probationary Status – Qualitative and Quantitative

A student who has successfully appealed their suspension status shall be placed on probation for one evaluation period. If at the end of the next evaluation period, a student on probation status:

1. Has met the cumulative grade point average (2.0 or higher) and completion percentage standards (67% or higher), the student shall be taken off probation and returned to good standing, or

2. Has not met the cumulative grade point average and completion percentage standards, but has met all of the conditions specified in their petition and academic contract/plan, the student will remain on a probation status, and shall be able to register for classes and retain their financial aid eligibility for one subsequent evaluation period, (i.e. a new petition is not required if conditions of petition and academic plan are met), or

3. Has not met the cumulative grade point average and completion percentage standards and has also not met the conditions specified in their petition and academic contract/plan, the student shall be re-suspended immediately upon completion of the evaluation and must appeal their suspension.

Appeals – Maximum Time Frame

A student whose financial aid is suspended due to Maximum Time Frame has the right to appeal based on extraordinary circumstances. There is no time limit on appealing. To appeal, the student must:

· Submit to the Financial Aid Office a written explanation of why the student has attempted so many credits but hasn’t completed their program(s)

· Have an academic advisor/counselor submit to the Financial Aid Office an academic plan listing the specific classes needed to complete each program. This is a separate process that is not related to the Academic Appeal process

· Maximum Time Frame Appeals will be reviewed by the Financial Aid Director or Financial Aid Specialist

· If an appeal is denied, the student has the right to appeal the decision to an Appeal Committee comprised of the President of the College and the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management or designee.

· Probationary status – Maximum Time Frame

· Once a Maximum Time Frame appeal is approved, only the classes identified on the Academic Plan from their advisor will be financial aid eligible.

Probationary Status - – Maximum Time Frame

· Once a Maximum Time Frame appeal is approved, only the classes identified on the Academic Plan from their advisor will be financial aid eligible.

Notification of Status and Appeal Results

Status

Notification of Warning

The Records Office shall notify a student in writing any time the student is placed in a warning status and shall inform the student of the conditions of that warning status.

Notification of Suspension

The Records Office shall notify a student in writing any time a student is placed in a suspension status due to not meeting the Qualitative and/or Quantitative standards, and the Financial Aid Office shall notify a student if they have not met the Maximum Time Frame. Both shall inform the student of their right to appeal the respective suspensions.

Notification of Probation

The Records Office shall notify a student in writing any time a student is placed in a probationary status and shall include the standards the student is expected to meet or the academic plan the student is expected to complete in order to register for classes and/or retain financial aid eligibility at the end of the next evaluation period.

Appeals

Notification of Appeal Results

The Records Office shall notify a student in writing of the result of a Qualitative and/or Quantitative appeal, and the Financial Aid Office shall notify a student in writing the result of a Maximum Time Frame appeal.

Reinstatement  

Qualitative and Quantitative, and Maximum Time Frame: A student suspended from enrollment and/or financial aid for not meeting any of the requirements and/or standards of this policy may re‑enroll and/or receive financial aid only after receiving approval of the appropriate appeal(s).

Treatment of Grades and Credits, Definitions and Conditions  

Grades of A, B, C, D and F are included in the GPA calculation. Courses for which a student receives a letter grade of A, B, C, D, and P are included in the calculation of cumulative credit completion percentage as courses successfully completed. Courses for which a student receives a letter grade of I, IP, N, NC, W, F, FN, and Z will be treated as credits attempted but not successfully completed. Audited courses (AU) are not counted into the calculation.

Academic Amnesty. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College does not grant Academic Amnesty.

Academic Plan

A set of specific requirements that a student is required to follow, and/or a list of classes that the student needs to complete or retake in order to meet program graduation requirements, and/or the minimum term GPA the student must achieve to make satisfactory academic progress in order to be reinstated to full financial aid eligibility and meet graduation requirements.

Audited Classes/Enrichment

Classes audited, taken for no credit, or taken only for personal enrichment with no intention of seeking a degree or diploma are not eligible for Financial Aid and are not included in satisfactory progress measurements.

Change in Major

The qualitative and quantitative standards are a cumulative measure and are not affected by a change in major. Regarding Maximum Time Frame, we will calculate the Maximum Time Frame based on 150% of Attempted Credits (including transfer and repeat credits) required for the new degree, diploma, or certificate program. Up to 30 remedial/developmental credits must be excluded from the maximum time frame calculation.

Completion Percentage (Rate or Pace)

Calculated using letter grade of A, B, C, D, S, and P as courses successfully completed.

Consortium/Joint Program Credits

Credits accepted for purposes of processing financial aid are included in the cumulative GPA, completion percentage, and Maximum Time Frame calculations.

Credit Life

Occupational course credits, including prerequisites, earned more than five years prior to admission into a specific program need the program coordinator’s approval to fulfill current program requirements. Certain occupational areas may have more stringent requirements. These requirements are detailed in the specific academic program’s description in this catalog. If the program coordinator requires a course to be repeated to meet the current program requirements both the old and new grade will remain on the student’s transcript, but the most recent grade earned will be the student’s official grade and calculated into the overall GPA. No course or grade will be removed from the transcript.

Developmental Coursework

Courses numbered below college level 0-999 designed to prepare students for study at the postsecondary level.

FN (failed-never attended) Grades

A grade given when a student has never attended a class. FN’s are included when evaluating grade point average, percent completion and maximum time frame. FN’s are not eligible for financial aid.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Calculated using a grade point value for grades of A, B, C, D, F, and FN (failed never attended), based on 4.0 A to F grading scale. Although a P or S will count as a credit earned, P and S grades carry no grade point value. Grade point average is calculated by dividing grade point average points by grade point average credits.

Incompletes

Temporary grade assigned only in exceptional circumstances, with approval of the instructor, where the student has completed the majority of the coursework. “I” grades automatically become F grades (or NC in the case of courses numbered below 1000) at the end of the next semester if requirements to complete coursework have not been met.

PSEO (Post-Secondary Enrollment Option), Concurrent Enrollment, and College in the High School credits

These credits are included in the calculation and evaluation of the Qualitative, Quantitative, and Maximum Time Frame requirements.

Remedial/Developmental Credits

Remedial/Developmental coursework (below 1000 level) is included in the GPA. Any remedial courses completed prior to August 2021 are included in the completion percentage measurement, but any remedial courses taken beginning or after August 2021 are excluded from the completion percentage measurement. Up to 30 remedial/developmental credits must be excluded from the maximum time-frame calculation.

Repeat Credits

Repeated courses, whether they are for additional credit, grade improvement, or expiration of credit life, are included in the quantitative (completion rate) and maximum timeframe calculations. Only the highest grade earned, however, will be used to calculate the GPA. Regardless of how many times a student is approved to repeat a class, a student shall not be permitted to receive financial aid for more than one repetition of a previously passed course.

Repeating a Course for Additional Credit

A student may enroll in some courses more than once. Courses in this category are specified in the course description section in this catalog. The maximum number of credits allowable is stated in the course description. For each enrollment, the student receives credit hours and a grade.

Repeating a Course for Improvement of Grade

Students who received a C, D, F, FN, or NC may repeat the courses in which they received these grades. A student may repeat a course only once. Additional repeats are allowed only if successfully petitioned. A “Request to Repeat a Course” form is available in the Records Office and must be completed at the time of registration. Both the old and new grade will remain on the student’s transcript, but the highest grade earned will be the student’s official grade for the course and calculated into the overall GPA. No course or grade will be removed from the transcript. Courses in which a student has received a grade of A or B are not eligible to be repeated. Each time a course is taken, the credits are included in the quantitative (completion rate) and maximum timeframe calculations on the student’s transcript.

Second Major

The qualitative and quantitative standards are a cumulative measure and are not affected by pursuing more than one major. Regarding Maximum Time Frame, we will calculate the Maximum Time Frame based on 150% of Attempted Credits (including transfer and repeat credits) required for the major that requires the most credits. Up to 30 remedial/developmental credits must be excluded from the maximum time frame calculation.

Summer Session

Except for Incompletes, Summer Session is treated the same as any other term in all aspects of this policy. (Incompletes from Summer Session must be completed by the end of the following Fall Semester).

Transfer Credits

Credits earned at another college that meet degree requirements are not included when calculating grade point average but are included when calculating percentage of completion (i.e. completion rate) and Maximum Time Frame. A 2.0 Minnesota Transfer Curriculum grade point average that includes all transfer course grades as well as Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College course grades is required for recognition of a student’s completion of the entire Minnesota Transfer Curriculum with or without completing an associate degree. This grade point average calculation will be made in the general education requirement section of a student’s degree audit.

Withdrawals (W’s)

Withdrawing from a course before the end of the term. W’s are included when evaluating a student’s percent completion, but not when determining grade point average. W’s are included in the Maximum Time Frame calculation.

“Z” grades

A temporary grade listed on the transcript until the instructor turns in the final grade to the Registrar. Z’s are included when evaluating a student’s percent completion, but not when determining their GPA.

Students have primary responsibility for their own academic progress and for seeking assistance when experiencing academic difficulty. Students are encouraged to keep a file of their grades and transcripts, and regularly review their online student account.

Minnesota State Board Policy is available here: https://www.minnstate.edu/board/procedure/209p1.html

Registration Cancellation for Non-Payment Policy

(Effective Fall Semester 2006)

In certain circumstances, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has the right to drop a student for non-payment of costs associated with attending the college. Students who do not pay college costs in a timely manner will be subject to being dropped from classes. Students in this situation will be notified in writing. The complete drop for non-payment policy is available in the Business Office and Student Services Departments on campus.

XIV. Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education Opportunity

(Minnesota State Board of Trustees 1B.1 and 1B.1.1)

1B.1 Nondiscrimination in Employment and Education Opportunity

Part 1. Policy Statement

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and education opportunity. No person shall be discriminated against in the terms and conditions of employment, personnel practices, or access to and participation in, programs, services, and activities with regard to race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation. In addition, discrimination in employment based on membership or activity in a local commission as defined by law is prohibited.

Harassment on the basis of race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or sexual orientation is prohibited. Harassment may occur in a variety of relationships, including faculty and student, supervisor and employee, student and student, staff and student, employee and employee, and other relationships with persons having business at, or visiting the educational or working environment.

This policy is directed at verbal or physical conduct that constitutes discrimination/ harassment under state and federal law and is not directed at the content of speech. In cases in which verbal statements and other forms of expression are involved, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College will give due consideration to an individual’s constitutionally protected right to free speech and academic freedom. However, discrimination and harassment are not within the protections of academic freedom or free speech.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College shall maintain and encourage full freedom, within the law, of expression, inquiry, teaching and research. Academic freedom comes with a responsibility that all members of our education community benefit from it without intimidation, exploitation or coercion.

This policy shall apply to all individuals affiliated with Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, including but not limited to, its students, employees, applicants, volunteers, agents, and is intended to protect the rights and privacy of both the complainant and respondent and other involved individuals, as well as to prevent retaliation or reprisal. Individuals who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary or other corrective action.

This policy supersedes all existing system, college, and university non-discrimination policies.

· Affirmative Action Officer: Damien Paulson....................... 218-879-0805 (Office 147)

· Americans with Disabilities: Trish Berger........................... 218-879-0864 (Office 134)

· Sexual Harassment Officer: Damien Paulson....................... 218-879-0805 (Office 147)

· Zero Tolerance of Campus Violence: Damien Paulson......... 218-879-0805 (Office 147)

XV. Sexual Violence Policy and Procedure

(Minnesota State Board of Trustees Policy 1B.3 and 1B.3.1)

Part 1. Policy Statement.

Sexual violence is an intolerable intrusion into the most personal and private rights of an individual, and is prohibited at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is committed to eliminating sexual violence in all forms and will take appropriate remedial action against any individual found responsible for acts in violation of this policy. Acts of sexual violence may also constitute violations of criminal or civil law, or other Board Policies that may require separate proceedings. To further its commitment against sexual violence, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College provides reporting options, internal mechanisms for dispute resolution, and prevention training or other related services as appropriate.

Subpart A. Application of Policy to Students, Employees, and Others.

This policy and procedure is intended to further implement MnSCU Board Policy 1B.3 and Procedure 1B.3.1 and provides a process through which Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students and employees alleging sexual violence may pursue a complaint. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College reaffirms the policy that sexual violence in all forms will not be tolerated, and the College will take appropriate remedial action against any individual found responsible for acts in violation of this policy.

This policy applies to all Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students and employees and to others, as appropriate, where alleged incidents of sexual violence have occurred on System property. Incidents of sexual violence alleged to have been committed by a student at a location other than on System property are covered by this policy pursuant to the factors listed in Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Board Policy 3.6. Incidents of sexual violence alleged to have been committed by a Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College employee at a location other than System property are covered by this policy.

Individuals alleged to have committed acts of sexual violence on System property who are not students or employees are subject to appropriate actions by Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, including, but not limited to, pursuing criminal or civil action against them.

Allegations of discrimination or harassment are governed by Board Policy 1B.1.

Subpart B. College Policy.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has adopted a clear, understandable written policy on sexual violence that applies to its campus community, including, but not limited to, its students and employees. The policy content and implementation shall be consistent with the standards in this Policy and Procedure 1B.3.1. The complete policy can be found on the college website at www.fdltcc.edu. To report alleged violations to this policy, please contact the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management at 218-879-0805 (Office 147).

XVI. Student Conduct Code

Student Conduct Code Policy and Procedure

(Minnesota State System of Colleges and Universities Board Policy 3.6 and 3.6.1)

Part 1. Student Conduct Policy

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has established a code of student conduct that states its student conduct policies and its procedures for the administration of student conduct proceedings. For the complete policy, see Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Academic and Campus Policies web page.

Students shall be afforded appropriate due process in the resolution of any allegation(s) of violations of the code of student conduct. Students found responsible for violations are subject to sanctions, which in more serious cases may include removal from student housing or suspension or expulsion from the college. Annually, and upon amendment, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College shall notify its students of the availability and location of the code of conduct and a copy of the code shall be posted at appropriate locations on campus and on the college website. Allegations of discrimination, harassment, sexual violence, fraud or dishonest acts as defined in Board Policy 1C.2 shall be resolved pursuant to Board policy. Allegations of academic dishonesty may be resolved under separate procedures in accordance with Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Academic Honesty and Classroom Conduct policy.

Part 2. Off-Campus Conduct

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College may hold students accountable for a violation of the behavioral proscriptions contained in the Student Code of Conduct committed off campus when:

· Hazing is involved; or

· The violation is committed while participating in a college sanctioned or sponsored activity; or

· The victim of the violation is a member of the college community; or

· The violation constitutes a felony under state or federal law; or

· The violation adversely affects the educational, research, or service functions of the college.

Part 3. Appeal

Students found to be responsible for a conduct violation shall be provided an avenue of appeal within the institution. In addition, in cases involving sanctions of suspension for 10 days or longer, students shall be informed of their right to a contested case hearing under Minnesota State Statute 14.

Part 4. Procedures

The chancellor shall establish procedures to implement this policy. The student conduct codes and procedures of the college and universities shall comply with Policy 3.6 and Procedure 3.6.1. The complete policy is found on the college website at www.fdltcc.edu.

XVII. Academic Honesty and Classroom Conduct

The primary academic mission of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is the exploration and dissemination of knowledge. Academic honesty and integrity are integral to the academic process. Academic dishonesty—cheating, plagiarism, and collusion—are serious offenses which undermine the educational process and the learning experience for the entire college community.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students are expected to understand and adhere to the concept of academic integrity and to the standards of conduct prescribed by the college’s policy on Academic Honesty. Students are expected to assume responsibility for their work, and student materials submitted in fulfillment of course, program, and college academic requirements must represent students’ own efforts. Any act of academic dishonesty attempted by a student at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Definitions

The prevailing forms of academic dishonesty are cheating, plagiarism, collusion, and the submission of false information regarding admission, readmission, and academic appeals of petitions.

Cheating in the instructional setting is the unauthorized use or exchange of information by students in meeting academic standards or requirements. Examples include but are not limited to the following:

· copying other’s work during an examination

· using unauthorized notes or aids during an examination

· taking an examination for another student

· collaboration with any other person during a test without instructor authorization

· unauthorized assistance on a take-home examination

· arranging for another student to take an examination

· attempting to obtain, or knowingly obtaining, using, buying, selling, transporting, or soliciting in whole or in part the contents of an unreleased test or information about an unreleased test

· bribing any other person to obtain an unreleased test or information about an unreleased test

· submitting substantial portions of the same work for credit in more than one course without consulting the instructors

· submitting research and assignments prepared by others e.g., purchasing the services of a commercial term paper company

Plagiarism is representing another person’s words or ideas as one’s own without proper attribution or credit. Other people’s words or ideas must be given adequate documentation whether used in direct quotation or in summary or paraphrase. Plagiarism includes but is not limited to quoting written or oral materials without citation on an exam, term paper, homework, or other written materials or oral presentations for academic requirements; submitting a paper purchased from a term paper service as one’s own; submitting anyone else’s work as one’s own. Any form of plagiarism constitutes an act of cheating.

Collusion is an agreement by two or more people to commit an act of academic dishonesty. The College will not attempt to distinguish between students who cheat or plagiarize and those who allow such behaviors to occur. A student who intentionally assists another in the act of cheating or plagiarism is subject to disciplinary action for abetting academic dishonesty.

The complete policy can be found in the Student Conduct policy at the Policies and reports link under “About Us”: https://fdltcc.edu/admissions/about-us/policies-reports/.

XVIII. Student Complaints and Grievances Policy

(Minnesota State Board of Trustees Board Policy 3.8 and Procedure 3.8.1)

A Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College student has the right to seek a remedy for a dispute or disagreement, including issues of institutional or program quality such as an institution’s compliance with the standards of an accrediting agency, or a claim of consumer fraud or deceptive trade practices, through a designated complaint or grievance procedure. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has established procedures, in consultation with student representatives and others, for handling complaints and grievances. These procedures shall not substitute for other grievance procedures specific in board, college policies or procedures, regulations or negotiated agreements. This policy does not apply to academic grade disputes. Grade appeals must be handled under a separate college academic policy. The complaint procedure is to be used when a student has a concern about his/her education at the college. The objective of the procedure is to resolve problems as quickly and efficiently as possible at the level closest to the student so the student’s educational progress can continue. Nothing within this process precludes a student from seeking legal counsel at any step. Students can obtain the Student Complaint/Grievance form from any advisor/counselor or in the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management’s or designee’s office. The Student Concern, Complaint and Grievance Form is also available online on the Academic & Campus Policies webpage at https://fdltcc.edu/about-us/policies-reports/academic-campus-policies/complaints-grievances-academic-petitions/.

Complaint Step Procedures and Timelines

1. A student may file a complaint at any time by obtaining the Student Complaint/Grievance Form in the office of the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management or find it online at the link provided above on this web page.

2. Fill out the form completely. Be very specific, listing person(s) involved, time(s), date(s), and location(s) of the incident(s) alleging any improper, unfair, arbitrary, or discriminatory action by any employee involving the application of a specific provision of a college or university rule/regulation or board policy or procedure, including issues of institutional or program quality such as an institution’s compliance with the standards of an accrediting agency, or a claim of consumer fraud or deceptive trade practices.

3. Return the completed form to the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management’s office. The Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management has seven working days in which to respond to the complaint. If the complaint is of academic nature the Vice President of Academic Affairs will be consulted and/or the complaint may be referred to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. A written explanation of the complaint decision will be given to the student within seven days.

4. The Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management and the student (or student designee) will schedule meetings to talk to the person who is the subject of the complaint. Written notification will be provided to the complainant regarding options available such as changes to: academic schedules, on-campus housing, transportation, and on-campus work situations. For the respondent’s protective measures, refer to the FDLTCC Student Conduct Code due process section. A student has the right to representation at any meeting and may request a mediator of their choice: student, instructor, or other. Students found to be responsible for a conduct violation shall be provided an avenue of appeal within the institution. In addition, in cases involving sanctions of suspension for ten days or longer, students shall be informed of their right to be contested case hearing under Minnesota state statute 14.

5. For student complaints in which it would be inappropriate to ask the student to informally discuss the matter with an employee named in the complaint, an alternative process must be made available to the student.

6. If the complaint is not resolved through the informal discussion or alternative process, a complaint may become a grievance if the complaint involves the application of a college rule or regulation or a board policy or system procedure.

7. Records and minutes agreed upon by all parties involved will be kept on all meetings and discussions and may be consulted for future reference.

8. Written summaries/agreements of the parties involved will follow any discussion.

Grievance Procedures and Timelines

1. A student has a right to file a grievance alleging improper, unfair, or arbitrary action by an employee involving the application of a specific provision of a college rule, regulation, board policy, or system procedure

2. A grievance must be submitted in writing by completing the Student Complaint/Grievance Form in the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management’s office or find it online at the link provided above on this web page.

3. Fill out the form completely. Be very specific, listing person(s) involved, time(s), date(s), and location(s) of the incident(s)

4. Return the completed form to the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management’s office. The Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management has seven working days in which to respond to the grievance. If the grievance is of an academic nature the Vice President of Academic Affairs will be consulted and/or the grievance may be referred to the Vice President of Academic Affairs. A written explanation of the grievance decision will be given to the student within seven days.

5. Students have a right to appeal a grievance decision by filing a written appeal to the President. Appeals must be filed within ten (10) working days of receipt of the grievance decision. The President shall respond provide a written response within ten (10) working days from receipt of the complaint/grievance appeal The President or will reconsider an appeal decision if more information is presented. The President’s decision is final and binding.

6. If the complaint involves a college rule or regulation, a student may appeal an official complaint through procedural steps up to the President. The decision of the President is final and binding.

7. If the grievance involves a board policy or system procedure, the actions of a college president, an issue of institutional or program quality such as an institution’s compliance with the standards of an accrediting or licensing agency, or a claim of consumer fraud or deceptive trade practice, a student may further appeal the college decision to the chancellor. The decision of the chancellor is final and binding.

Academic Petitions

Students wishing to request a waiver of a college rule or regulation for unusual or unforeseen circumstances should complete a “Academic Petition.” Forms may be obtained at the records office or from advisors/counselor. Completed forms should be submitted to the Records Office.

Campus Security and Clery Report

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College encourages all students and college community members to be fully aware of the safety issues on the campus and to take action to prevent and to report illegal and inappropriate activities. Personal awareness and applying personal safety practices are the foundation of a safe community. Our faculty, administration and staff are partners with students in this effort.

Pursuant to the Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College monitors criminal activity and annually publishes a Campus Security and Clery Report. This report is distributed by October 1 each year to registered students and current employees in compliance with several federal and state laws including the Drug-Free Schools and Community Act, the Student Right-to-Know, the Campus Security Act, the Drug-Free Workplace Act and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. The information is also made available to prospective students and employees. A printed copy is available for review at the campus information window and in the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management’s office. A copy of the report can be found on the college’s Campus Security Report and Clery Report webpage.

How to Report a Crime

To report a crime, call 911 as needed or contact the Student Services department in person, or via telephone at (218) 879-0800 or (800) 657-3712. Everyone on campus is encouraged to immediately report any criminal activity to the Campus Student Services Department and/or the appropriate local police department. Please notify the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management anytime 911 services are requested (fire, police or ambulance) on campus. The form used to report a crime can be filled out and submitted online on the college website.

To directly report crimes to the Campus Security Report Compliance Officer, contact the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management at (218) 879-0805.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College currently has a variety of policies and procedures relating to campus security, and expressly reserves the right to modify them or adopt additional policies or procedures at any time without notice. Such changes may appear in successive issues of this report.

For additional information about the college’s emergency response, notification and evacuation procedures, please refer to the Campus Security and Clery Report located in the policies area of the college website.

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is a Clery Act compliant campus.

Zero Tolerance of Campus Violence Policy

This policy of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is to achieve zero tolerance of campus violence. The policy and plan have been developed in accordance with state law.

Minnesota State Law

In 1992, the Minnesota Legislature adopted the following into State statute (sections 1.50 and 15.90): “The State of Minnesota adopts a policy of zero tolerance of violence. It is State policy that every person in the State has a right to live free from violence.”

In furtherance of that policy, Minnesota Statute 15.86 mandated each agency of State government adopt a goal of zero tolerance of violence in, and around, the agency location. Each such agency was also required to develop a plan describing how the agency will seek to eliminate any potential for violence (a) in and around the agency, and (b) affecting the attitudes and behavior of the people whom the agency serves or regulates.

Goals

It is the goal of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College to achieve an environment which is free from threats and acts of violence, whether perceived or real. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College will not tolerate campus violence of any type or from any source, including threatening or violent action by (a) employees, whether directed against students, visitors, or other employees; or (b) student or visitors, whether directed against employees or other students or visitors.

Policy

It is the policy of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College and the responsibility of its employees, students, and visitors to maintain a campus free from threats and acts of violence. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College will work to provide a safe campus for its employees, students and visitors.

Each employee, student, and visitor with whom we come into contact in our work at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College deserves to be treated with courtesy and respect. This will be accomplished by encouraging mutual respect among all individuals, establishing open and honest communication, and enforcing zero tolerance for any type of violent behavior.

The complete policy and security reports are on the college’s Campus Security and Clery Reports webpage at https://fdltcc.edu/about-us/policies-reports/campus-security-clery-reports/

XIX. Drug and Alcohol Policy

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College does not encourage the use of, nor condones the misuse of, alcoholic beverages and other drugs. The unlawful use, possession, or distribution of alcohol or illegal drugs at College-sponsored events is prohibited by federal and state law. Students who use, possess or distribute alcohol or illegal drugs on campus will be subject to disciplinary action as set forth in the College’s code of conduct and civil and state laws. This prohibition extends to any person on College grounds, whether he or she is a member of the College community or not. Minnesota statute defines “alcoholic beverage” as any beverage containing more than one half of one percent alcohol by volume.

Sanctions may include but are not limited to:

· Confiscation of any alcohol, drugs, or paraphernalia

· Conduct warnings or probation

· Counseling or medical referral

· Removal from residence hall

· Suspension or expulsion from the college

· Referral to law enforcement agencies for prosecution of charges

Philosophy

The goal of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is to create an environment which is free of alcohol and other drugs. The College supports those who choose a lifestyle free of chemicals and offers support groups on campus to those in recovery.

Drug and Alcohol Free Campus

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College and Minnesota State prohibit the use and/or possession of alcohol and other drugs on campus. According to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226) and Minnesota Statutes 152 Prohibited Drugs, 340A Liquor Act, and 624.71 Liquors in Certain Buildings or Grounds, Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College has implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by its students and employees. Students and employees receive drug and alcohol education materials annually.

Although the Minnesota Cannabis Law has changed, the possession and use of marijuana remains illegal under federal law, including the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, the Controlled Substances Act, the Campus Security Act, and Board Policy 5.18 Alcoholic Beverages or Controlled Substances on Campus. Therefore, the use, possession, production, manufacture, and distribution of marijuana continues to be prohibited while a student, staff, or faculty member is on college or university owned or controlled property or any function authorized or controlled by the college or university. 

Standards of Conduct

Standards of conduct, as outlined below, apply to all students, employees, and visitors at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.

No student, employee or visitor shall use, manufacture, sell, give away, barter, exchange or distribute: a controlled substance or drug paraphernalia as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 152, while on campus or while involved in a college activity, service, project, program, or work situation off campus.

· No student, employee, or visitor shall possess a controlled substance; 1) while on campus, or 2) while involved in college activity, service project, program, or work situation off campus except when the possession is for the person’s own use and is authorized by law.

· Except as allowed by Minnesota Statute 624.701, no student, employee or visitor shall introduce upon, or have possession upon any college campus, or while involved in a college activity, service, project program, or work situation, any alcoholic beverage as defined in Minnesota Statute 340.101.

· Employees working on federal grants or contracts who are convicted of a criminal drug statute violation occurring in the workplace are required to inform the principal campus administrator of the fact within five calendar days of conviction. The college will notify the federal government within ten days after receiving notice of such an employee being convicted of a criminal drug statute violation occurring in the workplace.

· No employee shall report to work and no student or visitor shall report to campus while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance (except as prescribed by a physician), which affects alertness, coordination, reaction, response, judgment, decision-making, or safety.

Sanctions

College sanctions for housing and on-campus violations of the Drug and Alcohol Policy will result in the following consequences, with the possibility of other sanctions to be determined by the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management.

First Offense

Student meets with the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management to review the violation and an investigation will occur. Students found in violation will receive a $250 fine that will be added to the student’s account. As a result of the violation, the student will be placed on disciplinary warning and will receive written notification. Campus support and community resources will be offered to the student. If no further violations occur during the school year, the fine will be removed from the student’s account.

However, a record of the violation will be maintained by the Housing Director and Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management and another dorm violation in a subsequent school year may result in removal from the dorms.

Second Offense

Student meets with the Vice President of Student Services and Enrollment Management to review the violation and an investigation will occur. If the student is found to have violated policy for the second time, the student will be asked to leave student housing immediately, and the student will be provided a list of area housing resources. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is not responsible for locating new housing accommodations for the student. Also, the student will be trespassed from the residence halls for the remainder of the academic school year. If the student wishes to return to housing the following school year, an application can be submitted and will be reviewed by the Housing Director and Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College administration for approval. Students on campus who are found in violation of the drug and alcohol policy for a second time will be removed from their courses.

Alcohol Violations

Minnesota has many statutes which regulate and control alcohol use and misuse. Fines and penalties are given on the basis of minimum requirements and prior violations. Some crimes and violations are as follows:

Driving Under the Influence (Blood Alcohol Content .08)

First offense: $700 fine, maximum 90 days in jail, revocation of driver license minimum 30 days.

Second offense (within 5 years): $3,000 fine, maximum. One year in jail, revocation of license minimum 90 days.

Persons Under the Age of 21 Misdemeanors

Consumption and possession unless in parent or guardian’s home, purchase or attempts to purchase alcohol, entering licensed premises, misrepresenting age.

Aiding Minors Gross Misdemeanor

To sell, furnish or give a minor alcohol, to induce a minor to purchase alcohol, to lend or permit use of license to a minor.

Additional Risks

Many students consider drinking to be normal and respectable, but many people forget that the abuse of alcohol can cause serious physical and mental problems.

XX. Computer Information Policy

Acceptable Use of Computers and Information Technology Resources Policy 5.22.1

Purpose

Acceptable use

This procedure establishes responsibilities for acceptable use of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College information technology resources. College information technology resources are provided for use by currently enrolled Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College students, administrators, faculty, other employees, and other authorized users. College information technology resources are the property of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College and are provided for the direct and indirect support of the College’s education, research, service, student and campus life activities, administrative, and business purposes, within the limitations of available college technology, financial and human resources. The use of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College information technology is a privilege conditioned on compliance with Policy 5.22.2, this procedure, and any procedures or guidelines adopted pursuant to this procedure.

· Academic Freedom: Nothing in this procedure shall be interpreted to expand, diminish, or alter academic freedom provided under MinnState Board policy, a system collective bargaining agreement, or the terms of any charter establishing a college library as a community or public library.

Applicability

This procedure applies to all users of Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College information technology, whether or not the user is affiliated with Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College and to all uses of those resources, wherever located. Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is not responsible for any personal or unauthorized use of its resources, and security of data transmitted on its information technology resources cannot be guaranteed.

The complete policy is on the college website at www.fdltcc.edu.

XXI. Email Accounts

General Information: College Use of Email

Email is a mechanism for official communication within Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. The College has the right to expect that such communications will be received, read, and acted upon in a timely fashion. Official email communications are intended only to meet the academic and administrative needs of the college community. The Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Information Technology Department is responsible for facilitating the use of the email system. All account users must adhere to Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College Policy 5.22, Acceptable Use of Computers and Information Technology Resources.

Procedure for Implementation

Assignment of Student Email

Official Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College email accounts are created for all employees and for all admitted students. The official email address will be maintained in the Information and Student Records System (ISRS). Official email addresses will be directory information unless the students request otherwise.

Deletion of Student Email

Student email accounts are de-activated after one year of non-attendance.

Redirecting of Email

If a student or employee wishes to have email redirected from their official Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College address to another email address, they may do so, but at their own risk. The College will not be responsible for the handling of email by outside vendors. Having email redirected does not relieve a student from the responsibilities associated with official communication sent to his or her Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College email account.

Expectations about Student and Employee Use of Email

Students and employees are expected to check their email on a frequent and consistent basis in order to stay current with College-related communications. Students and employees have the responsibility to recognize that certain communications may be time critical. All users are responsible for errors and forwarding mail. These examples and instances are not acceptable excuses for missing official College communications. Reasonable care and caution should be exercised to prevent and safeguard against malicious phishing or criminal emails.

Authentication for Confidential Information

It is a violation of College policies, including the Student Code of Conduct, for any user of official email addresses to impersonate a College office, faculty or staff member, or student.

Privacy

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College cannot guarantee the privacy or confidentiality of electronic documents. Users should exercise extreme caution in using email to communicate confidential or sensitive matters and should not assume that email is private and confidential. It is especially important that users are careful to send messages only to the intended recipient(s). Particular care should be taken when using the ‘reply’ command during email correspondence.

Educational Uses of Email

Faculty will determine how electronic forms of communications (e.g., email) will be used in their classes, and will specify their requirements in the course syllabus. This policy will ensure that all students will be able to comply with email-based course requirements specified by faculty. Faculty can therefore make the assumption that students’ official Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College email accounts are being accessed, and faculty can use email for their classes accordingly.

Users of computers and information technology resources are expected to be knowledgeable of and to fully comply with all aspects of the college’s Acceptable Use of Computers and Information Technology Resources policy (Policy 5.22.1) which defines general standards and guidelines for use of the college’s technology resources including email.

Video Surveillance and Recording Policy

Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College recognizes the need to achieve a balance between an individual’s right to privacy and the College’s duty to promote a safe environment for all community members and to protect college property. In an effort to achieve this, an electronic video surveillance system is used at the college. The manner in which it is used should be as least intrusive as possible but still have the ability to gather useful information about the activities that occur on the college campus and grounds. This policy does not apply to legitimate uses of video cameras for college promotion, instruction or research purposes.

The purpose of the use of video surveillance is to: promote a safe college environment by deterring acts of harassment or violence; deter vandalism or theft of college property and to aid in the identification of individuals who commit such acts; and assist law enforcement officials in the investigation of any crime that may have been committed on college property.

The complete policy is found on the college website at www.fdltcc.edu.

XXII. Important Phone Numbers

Admissions, Amanda Strapple...................................................................................... 879-0808

Admissions Officer, Josh Cleveland............................................................................. 879-0817

Affirmative Action Officer/Advisor, Damien Paulson.................................................... 879-0805

Bookstore, Bonnie Bernhardson................................................................................... 879-0828

Business Office

Ashley Klejeski............................................................................................... 879-0860

Paula Hagenah................................................................................................ 879-0809

Rose Kolodynski............................................................................................. 879-0798

Sheila Reed..................................................................................................... 879-0812

Lil’ Thunder Child Care............................................................................................... 879-0830

Counselor, Barbara McLean......................................................................................... 879-0819

VP of Student Services and Enrollment Management, Damien Paulson (Office 147)....... 879-0805

Accessibility Coordinator/Advisor, Trish Berger (Office 134)........................................ 879-0864

Faculty Offices............................................................................................................ 879-0700

Fax Number................................................................................................................ 879-0814

Financial Aid

Dave Sutherland.............................................................................................. 879-0816

Kathie Hill...................................................................................................... 879-0780

Fiscal Operations, Bret Busakowski.............................................................................. 879-0810

Housing Director, Jesse Stirewalt................................................................................. 879-0708

Human Resources

Lori Driscoll.................................................................................................... 879-0879

LeAnn Ulvi..................................................................................................... 879-0866

Information Desk, Faith Romanek.................................................... 879-0800 or 1-800-657-3712

Information Technology Staff

Executive Information Officer, Peter Angelos................................................... 879-0839

eLearning Specialist, Robin Anderson.............................................................. 879-0797

IT Specialist 2, Brad Bohlmann........................................................................ 879-0711

Librarian, Keith Cich................................................................................................... 879-0837

President, Anita Hanson............................................................................................... 879-0804

Registrar, Erica Gelo................................................................................................... 879-0746

Assistant Registrar, Mariah Rozell................................................................................ 879-0885

Sexual Harassment Officers

Lori Driscoll (Office W110)............................................................................. 879-0879

Damien Paulson (Office 147)........................................................................... 879-0805

Student Activities, Jesse Stirewalt................................................................................ 879-0800

Student Support Specialist, Kate Meisner...................................................................... 879-0835

Resource Navigator, Ashley Tegels.............................................................................. 879-0898

Title IX Coordinator, Damien Paulson.......................................................................... 879-0805

TRIO: Student Support Services

Director, Courtney Edwards............................................................................. 879-0872

Academic Advisor, Kelly Bahen...................................................................... 879-0806

Academic Advisor, Kristi Wickstrom............................................................... 879-0803

Tutoring/Center for Academic Achievement, Sarah Libbon ........................................... 879-0834

Vice President of Academic Affairs, Kelly McCalla...................................................... 879-0878

XXIII. Community Resources and Student Health Insurance

Since the enactment of the Affordable Care Act, students attending postsecondary institutions must demonstrate proof of health insurance or the student will incur a fine from the federal government. For more information, visit the websites at www.mnsure.org and www.healthcare.gov..

If you are an FDLTCC student who does not currently have health insurance, you can visit the FDLTCC Resource Navigator on campus for information and assistance in exploring your options. The Resource Navigator can help guide you through applying for health coverage through MNsure, Minnesota’s health insurance marketplace, or connect you with other available local health programs. Additionally, MNsure’s website offers tools to compare plans and determine eligibility for financial assistance. Do not hesitate to reach out for support—the college is committed to helping you secure the coverage you need for your well-being and academic success.

Students are encouraged to access available healthcare and personal well-being resources available in the community.

Community Memorial Hospital, 512 Skyline Blvd., Cloquet.......................................... (218) 879-4641

Fond du Lac Human Services, 927 Trettel Lane, Cloquet............................................... (218) 879-1227

Human Development Center, 40 11th St. #105, Cloquet................................................. (218) 879-4559

Equal Access Health Services, 1304 Cloquet Ave. Suite D, Cloquet............................... (218) 879-3900

Minnesota Domestic Violence Crisis Line..................................................................... (866) 223-1111