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Q&As about Code of Conduct and New Policies

Why do we have a new code of conduct for the learning environment?

We recognize that GTCC is an institution for adult learning and one that helps prepare individuals for successful careers in the world of work. Just as each workplace has specific guidelines and policies which employees are expected to follow, we feel that the new guidelines for behavior at GTCC help to create a respectful environment for teaching, learning and student success. The overall goal for the code of conduct is to outline student responsibilities to better prepare all of our students for successful careers. The following policies complement our efforts to create a respectful learning environment:

I-I.050 Tobacco Use
III-2.020 Dress Code
III-2.011 Identification Card

How are the students being informed of these changes?

We have been communicating the changes since our initial kick-off on November 15, 2010. We have used electronic messaging, Titan Cruiser, Moodle and student forums just to name a few. We intend to continue our communication campaign by displaying posters, table tents, brochures, videos, etc. throughout the spring semester across all of our campuses Additionally, all instructors will cover this information during the first week of class as part of the class syllabus outlining class expectations.

What does the policy on Tobacco Use cover?

Briefly speaking, the revised policy states that tobacco use will not be permitted at GTCC. This includes all campuses and also covers all faculty, staff, students and visitors. Failure to comply with this policy can result in disciplinary action that can lead up to and include student probation or employment termination. We believe these efforts protect and enhance our indoor air quality and contribute to the health and wellbeing of all students, employees and visitors. This new policy is effective January 1, 2011.

Can I smoke in my car?

Tobacco use is not permitted at any time at any Guilford Technical Community College facility. Smoking in cars located in GTCC parking lots or GTCC property is not permitted.

What does the Dress Code policy cover?

The Dress Code policy provides guidelines for dressing responsibly and in a manner that is acceptable to the college and the community. While the college respects individual style and creativity, students are expected to dress in a manner that is not disruptive, disrespectful or distracting to the educational environment. Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action. This new policy is effective January 1, 2011.

Are employees covered by the Dress Code policy?

There is a dress code policy for employees IV-4.010. It states that faculty and staff members will dress in a manner, which observes health and safety regulations, appropriateness to respective work environments, and consideration of Guilford Technical Community College's position as a college serving the public.

What does the policy on Identification Cards cover?

This policy was implemented because we are concerned about the safety of all students, employees and visitors. All students who maintain a consistent presence on any GTCC campus are required to have in their possession a GTCC issued ID card. This ID card serves as proof of the individual's status at the college and must be presented or returned upon request by an appropriate college official. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. This new policy is effective January 1, 2011.

Note: All regular and time-limited employees, full and part time, will wear identification cards while on duty on any campus or location of Guilford Technical Community College. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

How much does the Identification Card cost?

• For all employees, there is no charge for the initial ID card. If the card is lost or stolen, there is a $5.00 replacement fee.
• For curriculum students, the cost of the ID card is included in student fees. If the card is lost or stolen, there is a $5.00 replacement fee.
• Basic Skills students must pay $5.00 for their original ID card and each replacement ID card.
• Continuing Education students who maintain a consistent presence (greater than 60 days) on any GTCC campus are required to have an ID card. Currently, there is no charge for this card.
• Continuing Education students who are on a GTCC campus less than 60 days are required to have in their possession their registration form as proof of their student status at the college.

Where can I get my Identification Card?

Identification cards can be made on each campus. On the Jamestown campus, students can have ID cards made in the Student Life Office in Medlin Campus Center and employee ID cards are available through the Police Department; in High Point, students AND employees can have ID cards made at the Front Desk in Building H-1; and in Greensboro, students AND employees can have ID cards made in the CEC Building, Room 125.

How are visitors and others being made aware of the changes?

The Tobacco-free signs have been on display for a couple of years. As part of the overall communication campaign, we will have messages indicating our policies in prominent places across all of our campuses. We intend to continue this campaign by displaying posters, table tents, brochures, videos, etc. throughout the spring semester across all of our campuses. Additionally, managers who hire new employees, temporary workers or contractors are responsible for sharing this information as part of the orientation process.

Why is the College mandating all of these rules and guidelines?

Commitment to the educational success of our students is a hallmark of Guilford Technical Community College. Subsequently, GTCC has developed these policies and guidelines in response to combined requests from our students, faculty and staff. As an institution of higher learning, student success means helping students complete transitions into, through and out of the college environment, develop responsibility for learning, and achieve their educational goals. We feel that enforcing these policies and guidelines will help our students reach desired levels of academic achievement and career marketability. It is also important to remember that the majority of workplaces typically follow similar policies and procedures.

Who is responsible for enforcing all of these rules and guidelines?

As a student, faculty or staff person, we are all responsible for monitoring adherence to this policy.

I don't feel comfortable about approaching some people who may be in violation of any of these policies. What should I do if I observe a violation?

We realize that every person may not feel comfortable in confronting some individuals who may be in violation of a policy or guideline. If you observe behavior that is inappropriate and you don't feel comfortable in addressing the individual, please notify a colleague or supervisor who may be willing to address the issue. You may also consider the "buddy system" and address the person who is violating the policy along with a colleague or peer. It is important that we address inappropriate behaviors immediately and effectively if we are to achieve success with the implementation of the code of conduct and new policies. When confronting an individual, please consider the following strategies:

• Project calmness - move & speak slowly, quietly and confidently
• Avoid arguing or defending previous actions
• Avoid threatening body language - don't stand with arms crossed
• Calmly and firmly outline the limits of the situation
• Ask for the individual's ID, if necessary
• If you feel threatened in any way, remove yourself from the situation and call the campus police