Enrollment Services
Enrollment Services staff work as a team in conjunction with the Admissions and Records, Financial Aid, Business, Housing, Disability Services, Student Leadership and Activities, Dean of Students and Advising/Counseling Offices.
The Enrollment Services team members strive to provide enrollment-related services that are seamless, customer-friendly, and efficient in order to better service the students.
Campus Services Include:
Answering General Questions about
Admissions Advising
Counseling
Financial Aid
*Housing
Student Accounts
Parking
Assisting with Applications for
Admissions
*Housing
Collecting Money for
Tuition and Fees
*Housing Deposits and Down Payments
*Meal Plan
Parking Tickets
Library Fines
TSIA
HOBET Test for Brenham, Bryan and Schulenburg Campuses
TEAS Test for Brenham and Bryan Campuses
Distributing
Official Transcripts
Parking Permits
Student ID Cards & ID Replacements (Cost of replacement $7)
Registering for Tests
TSIA for Brenham, Bryan and Schulenburg Campuses
HOBET Test for Brenham, Bryan and Schulenburg Campuses
TEAS Test for Brenham and Bryan Campuses
Dropping Courses
Dropping Courses and Withdrawing from School
Processing
Official Transcript Requests
Address and Name Change Requests
Enrollment Verifications
*Housing and meal plans are on the Brenham Campus only.
For additional information:
Visit www.blinn.edu/admissions or call 979-830-4800.
Admissions and Records
How to Enroll at Blinn College
- Ask the student’s high school to send an official transcript, complete with test scores, to Blinn College. If it is before the high school can certify that the student has graduated, they will need to submit another one after graduation. If the student has attended a college or university, a transcript from each institution attended will be required. The student must request that an official transcript be sent to the Office of Admissions and Records at Blinn College. Students registering at the Brenham, Bryan, Schulenburg or Sealy campuses should send all items to the Admissions and Records Office of the campus they will be attending. All other students should send items to the Brenham Admissions Office. Failure to do so will delay acceptance and registration.
- The American College Test (ACT) and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) are not required for Admission to Blinn College. Students intending to transfer to a senior college should take the specific test(s) recommended by the senior college.
- The Texas Success Initiative was enacted by Texas legislators for all public state institutions of higher education to follow. The TSI Assessment (TSIA), which may be required of all first-time entering students, will determine students’ readiness for college-level coursework in reading, writing, and mathematics. Students who do not meet the minimum passing standards will be required to follow a developmental education program designed to help them achieve college-level readiness. Results from this assessment will be used for course placement only and not as a condition of admission to the college. There is a fee charged for this assessment and prior registration may be required. A Pre- Assessment Activity (PAA) is required prior to paying for and taking the assessment. (https://www.blinn.edu/testing/tsi/)
- A prospective housing student must first apply for admission to Blinn College. When admitted, the student will receive instructions for logging into his/her myBlinn account.
NOTE: When the prospective student has access to his/her myBlinn account, he/she will follow the instructions for Login of myHousing. Students requesting to live in on-campus housing must complete the online housing application and pay a NON-REFUNDABLE $125 application fee in order to be considered for a housing assignment. A Thank You confirmation page will be emailed when the Housing Application is completed successfully. It is recommended that students apply early for housing, as spaces are limited.
Admission requirements are available for review in the following pages. Former Blinn College students should submit transcripts from any school attended while away from Blinn and may be required to reapply depending on length of time away. All documents submitted to Blinn College become the property of the college upon receipt and should be turned in or mailed to the appropriate campus:
Office of Admissions and Records
Blinn College-Brenham Campus
902 College Avenue
Brenham, TX 77833
Blinn College-Bryan Campus
P.O. Box 6030
Bryan, TX 77805
RELLIS Campus
P.O. Box 6030
Bryan, TX 77805
Blinn College-Schulenburg Campus
100 Ranger Drive
Schulenburg, TX 78956
Blinn College-Sealy Campus
3701 Outlet Center Drive, 250
Sealy, TX 77474
All requests for information regarding courses and transcripts should be sent to the appropriate Office of Admissions and Records of Blinn College at the Brenham, Bryan, RELLIS, Schulenburg, or Sealy campuses.
Admissions Requirements
Blinn College is an open-admissions college. However, there are requirements that are needed depending upon the student’s background. Students who are academically under-prepared may be required to enroll in developmental courses in accordance with the Texas Success Initiative rules and regulations. Additionally, academically under-prepared students enrolling in some Technical Education courses will be required to enroll in developmental courses that have been paired with these courses, in accordance with Blinn College policies.
The admissions requirements for the different types of students are:
- High School Graduates (Including students with less than twelve hours of transferable college credit.) Any student that has graduated from a state accredited high school is eligible to apply for admission to Blinn College. The following documents are required for admission:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- A completed official copy of the high school transcript showing the last year’s grades and date of graduation. Blinn will accept faxed transcripts sent directly from the High School. Also, Texas high schools are encouraged to send official transcripts via TREx.
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or official exemption test scores and documentation.
- For those students transferring to Blinn College with less than twelve hours of transferable college credit, an official transcript from the accredited college* is required.
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- Students transferring from an accredited college or university or who are concurrently enrolled in an accredited college. * (This only includes students with twelve or more hours of transferable college work.) Students transferring into Blinn College on academic or disciplinary probation will be put on probation at Blinn College. Students transferring to Blinn College from an accredited college or university must supply Blinn College with official transcripts from each college or university attended.
Only credits from accredited colleges or universities are accepted.
* Blinn College only recognizes and accepts transferable credit from colleges or universities that have been accredited by one of the following six “Regional Accreditation” bodies:
Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; New England Association of Schools and Colleges; North Central Association of Colleges and Schools; Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools; and Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
The following documents are required for admission:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- An official, up-to-date transcript from all colleges attended. Blinn does NOT accept faxed college transcripts.
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or official exemption documentation
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- Students who have completed a Texas high school equivalency exam. Students who have completed the GED test, TASC test or HiSET exam are eligible for admittance to Blinn College. The following documents are required for admission:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- State of Texas Certificate of High School Equivalency with official scores and completion date
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or exemption test scores and documentation
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- Students who are reentering Blinn College after not being enrolled for more than one academic year. Any student who has previously attended Blinn College but has been away for more than one academic year is eligible for readmission. The documents needed are:
- Updated and submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org). A new application has to be submitted even if nothing has changed to comply with state residency requirements.
- An official, up-to-date transcript from all colleges attended after leaving Blinn College. Blinn does NOT accept faxed college transcripts.
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or exemption test scores and documentation
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- High School (including home schooled) students enrolling in a Dual Credit program or as early admission students. High school students may attend Blinn College beginning the summer following their eighth grade year. Required documents for admission are:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- Completed Dual Credit Approval form with high school’s approval
- A “B” or better average in high school work as indicated on an official high school transcript
- A high school transcript indicating coursework completed up to the time of enrollment in Blinn College
- Students seeking admission under this provision are required by state law to have passed the section(s) of the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment, which directly relates to the course(s) for which they want to register OR satisfy exemption criteria as exhibited by ACT or SAT scores. Scores/ exemptions must be furnished on an official document at the time of registration by the high school or the student
- (Students wishing to continue enrollment at Blinn College following their high school graduation are required to submit a final copy of their high school transcript showing the student’s high school graduation date).
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations).
- Graduates of a Home School or a Non-Accredited High School. Any student who has completed a home school program or has graduated from a non-accredited high school is eligible to apply for admission to attend Blinn College. The following documents are required for admission:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or official exemption test scores and documentation.
- A completed copy of the student’s transcript signed and notarized by the principal or head of instruction, showing the last semester’s grades and date of graduation
- For those students who are seeking Title IV Financial Aid, additional information may be required.
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations).
- Students without a high school diploma or GED certificate. Any person who has not graduated from high school and who has not received a GED certificate may enroll in Blinn with the approval of the Registrar or the Director of Admissions. The following documents are required for admission:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or official exemption test scores and documentation.
- For those students who are seeking Title IV Financial Aid, additional information may be required.
- Initial enrollment will be limited to registration for one semester. After completion of one long semester the student must meet with an Academic Advisor to ensure readiness.
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- Students enrolling in a Level I certificate program. Any person seeking a technical Level I certificate is eligible to attend Blinn College. These students are waived from Texas Success Initiative testing requirements as long as the student enrolls in the courses within the certificate program(s) as outlined in this catalog. For those persons seeking Level I certificates the admissions requirements are:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- A completed official copy of the high school transcript showing the last year’s grades and date of graduation. Blinn will accept faxed transcripts send directly from the High School. Also, Texas high schools are encouraged to send official transcripts via TREx.
- An official, up-to-date transcript from all colleges attended. Blinn does NOT accept faxed college transcripts.
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- Students who are non-degree or non-certificate students. Any person who is not intending to seek a degree or a certificate, or planning to transfer to another college or university is eligible to attend BlinnCollege. Students being admitted under this method may not take more than two (2) courses during each semester. For these persons the following admissions items are required:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application (www.applytexas.org)
- Proof of successful completion of one of the following conditions:
- Graduation from a state accredited United States high school
- Successful completion of the GED test o Graduation from a non-accredited high school or from a home-schooled program
- Has been out of high school for a period of five or more years
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or official exemption test scores and documentation.
- Proof of Bacterial Meningitis Vaccination (www.blinn.edu/immunizations)
- International Students - The following requirements apply to applicants who are not U.S. citizens: For those students who are not U.S. citizens, the following requirements are necessary for admission to Blinn College:
Legal Immigrants:
- Submit Alien Registration Receipt Card, Permanent Resident Card, or an I-551 stamp in the student’s passport
- Meet the same requirements as a U.S. citizen depending on the category of admission
Immigration Status Pending:
- Submit evidence (I-797 Notice of Action) that petition to change status has been filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service
- Meet the same requirements as a U.S. citizen depending on the category of admission
Nonimmigrant Alien:
The following requirements apply to all applicants in F-1 status, and to all non-citizen applicants that do not qualify for admission as Immigrants or Refugee:
- Submitted electronic ApplyTexas application www.applytexas.org
- Nonrefundable $200 international student application fee
- Confirmation of Financial Resources Form documenting source of adequate funds. See website for details: www.blinn.edu/international/expense.html.
- English Proficiency Test Scores: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Testing Systems (IELTS). TOEFL/ IELTS may be required regardless of prior enrollment in U.S. high school or college. TOEFL Internet- based with a minimum score of 61; computer-based with a minimum score of 173; and paper-based with a minimum score of 500. IELTS a minimum score of 5.5
- Copy of passport
- Entering freshman: Certified English translation and original native language transcript of high school showing completion of secondary school
- Transfer from U.S. college or university: Official transcript from each college or university attended and copy of current I-20, visa, and I-94 card. International transcripts must be the Certified English translation
- Official Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment scores or official exemption documentation
- Co-enrolled students: Students taking one or two course at Blinn College while their I-20 remains at another U.S. institution must submit a co-enrollment letter from their current DSO for each semester they wish to attend Blinn College, a copy of passport, and copy of visa
Compliance with all requirements and procedures established for visa category by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service. Application and all documents must be submitted by the posted admissions deadlines. All documents received after the posted deadline will be processed for the next qualified term. No exceptions will be made to these deadlines. See website for admissions requirements & semester deadlines: www.blinn.edu/international
International students with an F-1 visa must enroll in and maintain 12 semester hours during fall and spring semesters and must be in at least 9 semester hours of traditional/face to face credits. International student orientation is mandatory for all incoming international students. Failure to maintain these requirements will result in the termination of the student’s I-20.
Information regarding international students can be found at: www.blinn.edu/international.
Blinn Administrative Procedure
Admissions Testing Requirements
Blinn College does not require students to take either the ACT or SAT test for admittance. Students are recommended to take either or both of these tests and have their scores sent to the college. Scores from these tests may be used for placement of Texas Success Initiative (TSI) exemptions.
Depending upon their status, students may be required to take a test for TSI compliance and/or for placement (see the Texas Success Initiative section).
Advising Requirements
Blinn College encourages all students to be academically advised each semester. Some student populations are required to be advised and registration holds will be placed on their accounts until the advising process is completed. Students required to be advised include:
- students who are NOT “College Ready” *
- students returning from academic suspension
Students on academic probation and first time freshman are strongly recommended to meet with an advisor prior to registration.
*College Ready is defined as one who has passed all sections on, or is exempt from, the state-approved placement test, Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA).
TSI: Texas Success Initiative
Students enrolling for the first time in college after August 26, 2013, are required, unless exempt, to be assessed for college readiness by completing the Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA) in the areas of reading, mathematics, and writing. This initiative further requires that students who do not meet the passing standard of an area of the assessment are not allowed to enroll in college-level classes requiring skills in the unmet area until those college readiness skills are met. Students can meet the skills requirement by completing the sequence of college developmental courses for that area or by passing a retest of the TSIA.
There is a fee charged for these placement tests and prior registration may be required. Information on testing can be found here or by contacting the Testing Center/Academic Advising and Counseling Office on the campus the student plans to attend.
Reading Section
If the student failed to meet the passing standard on the reading section of one of the approved assessment tests, use the reading chart based on the student’s initial reading score to find the course placement and “track” required for reading developmental courses. Once the student has determined their “track,” refer to the second chart for the course sequence the student is required to complete prior to enrolling in the related academic courses. Students must successfully complete the course sequence to be considered college ready in each section.
Math Section
If the student failed to meet the passing standard on the the math section of one of the approved assessment tests, use the math chart based on the student’s initial math score to find the course placement and “track” required for math developmental courses. Once the student has determined their “track,” refer to the second chart for the course sequence the student is required to complete prior to enrolling in the related academic courses. Students will need to complete the course sequence to be considered college ready in each section.
Writing Section
If the student failed to meet the passing standard on the writing section of one of the assessment tests, use the writing chart based on the student’s initial writing score to find the course placement and “track” required for writing developmental courses. Once the student has determined their “track,” refer to the second chart for the course sequence the student is required to complete prior to enrolling in the related academic courses. Students will need to complete the course sequence to be considered college ready in each section.
The Blinn College Success Initiative Plan states that students are considered “College Ready” if they have passed the section of the test or completed the highest developmental course in reading, writing, or mathematics with a grade of “C” or better. A student cannot enroll in any of the approved related academic courses in the failed area until the developmental sequence is completed, or until the failed section of the state-approved placement test is retaken and passed.
Students enrolled in developmental courses must follow the Blinn College attendance policy. A student who is subject to the Success Initiative rules and who acquires the equivalent of two weeks of absences in a required developmental course(s) will be withdrawn from the course. Likewise, a student who is not subject to the Success Initiative rules and acquires the equivalent of two weeks of absences will also be withdrawn from the course. Refer to the “Class Attendance ” section for more information.
Students may choose to enroll in developmental courses for one or all areas of skill deficiency. The sooner the developmental sequence is completed with a grade of “C” or better, the sooner the related academic courses may be attempted. Students who believe their study patterns and skills need improvement, should consider enrolling in study skills.
Texas Success Initiative Assessment (TSIA) Exemptions
Students may be exempted from taking all or parts of the TSIA assessment if one of the following conditions applies:
- For a period of five (5) years from the date of testing, a student who is tested and performs at or above the following standards on the:
ACT
A composite score of 23 is required to be exempt in one or more areas. If a student does not meet the composite minimum his/her ACT scores cannot be used for TSI exemption.
- If a student made an ACT Composite score of 23+ with an ACT English score of 19+, he/she is exempt from the reading and writing areas of testing.
- If a student made an ACT Composite score of 23+ with an ACT Math score of 19+, he/she is exempt from math testing.
SAT Administered Prior to March 5, 2016 *
A combined Math+Critical Reading score of 1070 is required to be exempt in one or more areas. If a student does not meet the 1070 combined minimum, then the SAT scores cannot be used for TSI exemption.
- If a student’s SAT Critical Reading score was 500+ and his/her combined Math+Critical Reading score was 1070+, he/she is exempt from the reading and writing testing.
- If a student’s SAT Math score was 500+ and his/her combined Math+Critical Reading was 1070+, he/she is exempt from the math testing.
New SAT Administered on or after March 5, 2016 *
An Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 480+ will be exempt from reading and writing testing.
- A Math score of 530+ will be exempt from math testing.
- No composite score is required for New SAT administered on or after March 5. 2016
*Mixing or combining scores from the SAT administered prior to March 2016 and the SAT administered on or after March 5, 2016 is not allowable.
11th Grade Exit-Level TAKS
If a student made a TAKS English Language Arts score of 2200+ and had a written composition score of 3+, he/she is exempt from reading and writing testing.
If a student made a TAKS math score of 2200+, he/she is exempt from math testing.
STAAR End of Course Exams
If a student made a Level 2 score of 2000+ on English 3 Reading and Writing EOC exams, he/she is exempt from reading and writing testing.
If a student made a Level 2 score of 4000+ on Algebra 2 EOC exam, he/she is exempt from math testing.
- A student who has graduated with and associate of baccalaureate degree from an institution of higher education.
- A student who transfers to Blinn College from a private or independent institution of higher education or a regionally accredited out of state institution of higher education and has taken courses corresponding to the Success Initiative requirements and earned a grade of “C” or higher in each of the three skill areas. These courses must have common course numbers corresponding to courses transferring into Blinn College. If the student has not earned a grade of “C” or higher in each of the skill areas, the student must be tested for the remaining area(s) and comply with all other Success Initiative requirements.
- A student who has previously attended another regionally accredited Texas public institution of higher education and has been determined to have met readiness standards by that institution.
- A student who enrolls in a Level 1 Certificate program of one year or less with 42 or fewer semester credit hours and takes only classes listed in that certificate plan. TSI requirements apply if the student changes their major or take courses outside of their Level 1 certificate plan.
- A student who is serving on active duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States, the Texas National Guard, or as a member of a reserve component of the United States and has been serving at least three years preceding enrollment:
- A copy of a student’s military ID card or a letter from the military stating their active duty service expires and a copy of their most recent LES must be provided for Blinn to determine if they qualify for the waiver. This must be submitted to admissions.
- A student who on or after August 1, 1990, was honorably discharged, retired or released from active military duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States, or the Texas National Guard or service as a member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States. (A copy of the DD214 with character of service must be submitted to the Office of Admissions.)
Exemptions will not be granted until documentation is provided in the form of official transcripts sent directly to Blinn College or a score report is sent directly from the testing agency to Blinn College.
Credit by Examination
Conditions for AP and CLEP Subject Examinations
- Credit, up to 12 hours, will be granted only if the student completes 6 semester hours at Blinn College and earns a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0. Students must present evidence of completion with acceptable scores of AP or CLEP exams along with a completed application for credit. The request for credit may be made at any time while the student attends Blinn College but will not be granted if the student has attempted, is enrolled in or has completed the course for which credit is being sought. Applications are also available in person at Enrollment Services.
- Credit earned by examination may not be used to meet the minimum residence requirement for the Blinn College degree or certificate awarded at graduation.
- Students should understand that each college and university has its own policy with respect to credit earned by examination and that any such credit allowed by one institution may not necessarily be accepted by another.
- Credit through CLEP assumes the student has had no formal classroom instruction as an enrolled student or as an auditor.
- Blinn College does administer the CLEP Subject examinations by appointment only. A CLEP Exam Appointment Form must be filled out and submitted to schedule an exam appointment.
Credit for International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBD)
The International Baccalaureate Diploma is an international program of courses and exams offered at the high school level. In keeping with Senate Bill 111 passed in 2005, Blinn College will grant credit (CR) for IB exams with certain required scores.
Texas institutions of higher education must award 24 hours of course specific college credit in subject appropriate areas of all IB exam scores of 4 or above as long as the incoming freshmen have earned an IB diploma. However, course credit does not have to be awarded on any IB exams where the score received is a 3 or less. This may mean that such students will not receive 24 hours of college credit, even if they have an IB diploma.
Students must have an offical IB transcript sent to Blinn College. All IB students must show proof of meeting the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirements prior to their enrollment at Blinn.
| Blinn College Credit for IBD |
| IB Examination |
Score |
Blinn Course |
Credit Hours |
| Biology (SL) |
4, 5,6 or 7 |
BIOL 1406 |
4 |
| Biology (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
BIOL 1406 & BIOL 1407 |
8 |
| Business and Management |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
BUSI 1301 |
3 |
| Chemistry (SL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
CHEM 1411 |
4 |
| Chemistry (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
CHEM 1411 & CHEM 1412 |
8 |
| Computer Science |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
BCIS 1305 |
3 |
| Economics (SL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ECON 2301 & ECON 2302 |
6 |
| Economics (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ECON 2301 & ECON 2302 |
6 |
| English A: Literature (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302 |
6 |
| English (SL) Language A1 or A2 |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302 |
6 |
| English (HL) Language A1 or A2 |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ENGL 1301 & ENGL 1302 |
6 |
| Geography |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
GEOG 2312 |
3 |
| History of the Americas (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
HIST 1301 & HIST 1302 |
6 |
| Mathematics (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
MATH 1314 & MATH 1316 |
6 |
| Mathematics with Further Mathematics |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
MATH 1314 , MATH 1316 & 2342 |
9 |
| Modern Languages |
|
|
|
| Language A1 or A2 (SL) |
|
|
|
| French |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
FREN 1411 & FREN 1412 |
8 |
| German |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
GERM 1411 & GERM 1412 |
8 |
| Spanish |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
SPAN 1411 & SPAN 1412 |
8 |
| Language A1 or A2 (HL) |
|
|
|
| French |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
FREN 1411 , FREN 1412 , FREN 2311 & FREN 2312 |
14 |
| German |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
GERM 1411 , GERM 1412 , GERM 2311 & GERM 2312 |
14 |
| Spanish |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
SPAN 1411 , SPAN 1412 , SPAN 2311 & SPAN 2312 |
14 |
| Language B (SL) |
|
|
|
| French |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
FREN 1411 & FREN 1412 |
8 |
| German |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
GERM 1411 & GERM 1412 |
8 |
| Spanish |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
SPAN 1411 & SPAN 1412 |
8 |
| Language B (HL) |
|
|
|
| French |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
FREN 1411 , FREN 1412 , FREN 2311 & FREN 2312 |
14 |
| German |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
GERM 1411 , GERM 1412 , GERM 2311 & GERM 2312 |
14 |
| Spanish |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
SPAN 1411 , SPAN 1412 , SPAN 2311 & SPAN 2312 |
14 |
| Language AB Initio |
|
|
|
| French |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
FREN 1411 |
4 |
| German |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
GERM 1411 |
4 |
| Spanish |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
SPAN 1411 |
4 |
| Music |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
MUSI 1306 |
3 |
| Philosophy |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
PHIL 1301 |
3 |
| Physics (SL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
PHYS 1401 |
4 |
| Physics (HL) |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
PHYS 1401 & PHYS 1402 |
8 |
| Psychology |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
PSYC 2301 |
3 |
| Social and Cultural Anthropology |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ANTH 2351 |
3 |
| Theatre Arts |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
DRAM 1310 |
3 |
| Visual Arts |
4, 5, 6 or 7 |
ARTS 1301 |
3 |
Student Records
Privacy Rights of Students (FERPA)
Notification of Rights
Every Fall and Spring semester, Blinn College informs students of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. This act was designed to protect the privacy of student educational records. It establishes the right of students to inspect and review their educational records. It also provides guidelines, through informal and formal hearings, for the correction of the educational records that a student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of his/her privacy rights.
Students also have a right to file complaints concerning FERPA with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with the requirements of the Act and 34 CFR part 99. Complaints should be filed with the vice chancellor, student services. Questions concerning FERPA may be referred to the Office of Admissions and Records.
Disclosure of Student Records
The term “educational records” means those records, files, documents, and other materials that contain information directly related to a student and are maintained by Blinn College.
In general, no personally identifiable information from a student’s educational records will be disclosed without written consent from the student, except to the extent that the Act and 34 CFR 99.31 authorize disclosure without consent. Two exceptions include: (1) directory information will be released unless the student requests that it be withheld; (2) records may be disclosed to parents of students who depend upon them as defined by Internal Revenue Code 1954, Section 152. Parents must submit a notarized Certification of Dependency annually, in order for the student’s record to be disclosed.
If a student would like to grant another party access to their educational records they must submit a FERPA Release form for each proxy, to the Office of Enrollment Services. FERPA Release forms are valid until the student revokes the proxy’s access in writing with the Office of Enrollment Services.
In order for students to withhold their directory information, they must submit the Request to Withhold Directory Information form to any Office of Enrollment Services. Once the Request to Withhold Directory Information has been processed it will remain active until revoked by the student in writing, with the Office of Enrollment Services. All of these forms can be found on our website www.blinn.edu/admissions/forms.html; under the Forms category.
A student may not use the right of refusal to opt out of directory information disclosures to prevent a College District from disclosing or requiring a student to disclose the student’s name, identifier, or institutional e-mail address in a class in which the student is enrolled. Blinn College will continue to honor any valid request made in the last semester attended of a former student to opt out of the disclosure of directory information, unless the student rescinds the opt-out request. The College will not disclose or confirm directory information without meeting the written consent requirements in 34 CFR 99.30 if a student’s Social Security Number or other non-directory information is used alone or combined with other data elements to identify or help identify the student or the student’s records.
Blinn Board Policy FJ (Legal)
Public Notice Designating Directory Information
The College District designates the following categories of student information as public or directory information. Such information may be disclosed by the institution:
| Category I: |
Name, classification, major field of study, home address, and College District e-mail address. |
| Category II: |
Previous institutions attended, attendance status, awards, honors (including Distinguished and President’s lists), degree(s) conferred (including dates), past and present participation in officially recognized sports and activities, and physical factors (height, weight of athletes). |
Currently enrolled students may withhold disclosure of either or both categories of information under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. To withhold disclosures, written notification must be received in the Office of Admissions and Records on the Brenham campus or Bryan campus within 12 calendar days from the first day of registration for each long term or four days for summer terms. Forms requesting the withholding of directory information shall be available in the offices listed above. The College District shall assume that failure on the part of any student to specifically request the withholding of directory information indicates individual approval for disclosure.
Blinn Board Policy FJ (Local)
Custodian of Records
The Registrar is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students, for all official academic records, and all other records. The address for the custodian of records shall be included in the Annual Notice of Student Rights under 20 U.S.C. 1232g.
Blinn Board Policy FJ (Local)
Change of Name or Address
A student who changes his or her name or permanent address shall be asked to notify the Office of Admissions in writing of this change immediately (admissions@blinn.edu). A student can change his or her local address in their myBlinn account. Any communication from the College District, which is mailed to the name and permanent address on record, shall be considered to have been delivered and the student shall be responsible.
Blinn Board Policy FJ (Local)
Request Procedures
The College District shall make a student’s records available to the student. The records custodian or designee shall use reasonable procedures to verify the requestor’s identity before disclosing student records containing personally identifiable information.
Records may be reviewed in person during regular business hours without charge upon written request to the records custodian. For in-person viewing, the records custodian or designee shall be available to explain the record and to answer questions. The confidential nature of the student’s records shall be maintained at all times. Records to be viewed shall be restricted to use only in the District Chancellor’s office or other restricted area designated by the records custodian. The original copy of the record or any document contained in the comprehensive record shall not be removed from the school.
Copies of records must be requested in writing and shall be available at a per copy cost, payable in advance. Financial hardship cases shall be dealt with on an individual basis. A student may be denied copies of records if he or she fails to follow proper procedures or pay the copying charge.
Board Policy FJ (Local)
Procedures to Amend Records
Within 15 College District business days of the record custodian’s receipt of a request to amend records, the College District shall notify the student in writing of its decision on the request and, if the request is denied, of his or her right to a hearing. If a hearing is requested, it shall be held within 10 College District business days after the request is received.
Students shall be notified in advance of the date, time, and place of the hearing. An administrator who is not responsible for the contested records and who does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing shall conduct the hearing. The student shall be given a full and fair opportunity to present evidence, and at his or her own expense, may be assisted or represented at the hearing. The student shall be notified of the decision in writing within ten College District business days of the hearing. The decision shall be based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing and shall include a summary of the evidence and reasons for the decision. If the decision is to deny the request, the student shall be informed that he or she has 30 College District business days within which to exercise his or her right to place in the record a statement commenting on the contested information and/or stating any reason for disagreeing with the College District’s decision.
Blinn Board Policy FJ (Local)
Access by School Officials
A school official shall be allowed access to student records if he or she has a legitimate educational interest in the records. For the purposes of this policy, “school officials” shall include: An employee, Trustee, or agent of the College District, including an attorney, a consultant, a contractor, a volunteer, and any outside service provider used by the College District to perform institutional services.
- A person serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
- All contractors provided with student records shall follow the same rules as employees concerning privacy of the records and shall return the records upon completion of the assignment.
A school official has a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records when he or she is:
- Working with the student;
- Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or services for a student with disabilities;
- Compiling statistical data;
- Reviewing an education record to fulfill the official’s professional responsibility; or
- Investigating or evaluating programs.
Blinn Board Policy FJ (Local)
Students with Disabilities
Students receiving services through the Office of Disability Services will be notified of their rights under Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 when they register for services.
Residency Status of Students
The Board designates the Registrar as the residence determination official for the College District.
In determining residence status, the Registrar shall be governed by the “Guidelines for Determining Residence Status” approved by the Coordinating Board and the College District.
Blinn Board Policy FDA (LOCAL)
Requirements for In-State Residency
Residents
Subject to the other applicable provisions of Education Code Chapter 54, Subchapter B governing the determination of resident status, the following persons are considered residents of this state for purposes of Education Code Title 3:
- A person who:
- Established a domicile in this state not later than one year (12 months) before the census date of the academic term in which the person is enrolled in an institution, including a college district; and
- Maintained that domicile continuously in the state for the year (12 months) immediately preceding the census date of the academic semester in which the person enrolls in an institution. Education Code 54.052(a); 19 TAC 21.24(a)(2)
If a person applies for resident status under this provision, the person shall submit the following information to an institution of higher education to establish resident status under Education Code Chapter 54, Subchapter B:
|
- A statement of the dates and length of time the person has resided in this state, as relevant to establish resident status; and
- A statement by the person that the person’s presence in this state for that period was for a purpose of establishing and maintaining a domicile. Education Code 54.053(1)
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- A dependent whose parent:
- Established a domicile in this state not later than one year (12 months) before the census date of the academic term in which the dependent is enrolled in an institution of higher education; and
- Maintained that domicile continuously for the year (12 months) immediately preceding the census date of the academic semester in which the person enrolls in an institution.
Education Code 54.052(a)(2); 19 TAC 21.24(a)(3)
If a person applies for resident status under this provision, the person shall submit the following information to an institution of higher education to establish resident status under Education Code Chapter 54, Subchapter B:
- A statement of the dates and length of time any parent of the person has resided in this state, as relevant to establish resident status; and
- A statement by the parent or, if the parent is unable or unwilling to provide the statement, a statement by the person that the parent’s presence in this state for that period was for a purpose of establishing and maintaining a domicile. Education Code 54.053(2)
- A person who:
- Graduated from a public or accredited private high school in this state or, as an alternative to high school graduation, received the equivalent of a high school diploma in this state, including the successful completion of a nontraditional secondary education; and
- Maintained a residence continuously in this state for:
- The three years (36 months) immediately preceding the date of graduation or receipt of the diploma equivalent, as applicable; and
- The year (12 months) preceding the census date of the academic term in which the person is enrolled in an institution. Education Code 54.052(a)(3); 19 TAC 21.24(a)(1)
If a person applies for resident status under this provision, the person shall submit the following information to an institution of higher education to establish resident status under Education Code Chapter 54, Subchapter B:
- A statement of the dates and length of time the person has resided in this state, as relevant to establish resident status; and
- If the person is not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, an affidavit stating that the person will apply to become a permanent resident of the United States as soon as the person becomes eligible to apply. An affidavit signed by a person enrolled and classified during any part of the 2011-12 academic year or later must be retained in a paper or electronic format permanently by the institution or until the student (current and former) provides proof that the student has applied for permanent resident status. Education Code 54.053(3); 19 TAC 21.25(a)(1)(B), (c), .30(a), (c)
For purposes of this section, the domicile of a dependent’s parent is presumed to be the domicile of the dependent unless the person establishes eligibility for resident status under the third option. Education Code 54.052(b); 19 TAC 21.24(d)
Non-Citizens
Non-U.S. citizens are eligible to establish and maintain domicile in this state for the numbered provisions above in accordance with 19 Administrative Code 21.24(c). 19 TAC 21.24(c)
A public or independent institution of higher education that enrolls and classifies a person who is not a Citizen or Permanent Resident of the United States as a resident under provision 3 during any part of the 2011-12 academic year or later shall instruct such students upon admission, annually while the students are enrolled, and upon graduation of their obligation to apply for Permanent Resident status as soon as eligible to do so and refer students to the appropriate federal agency for instructions on how to achieve such status. 19 TAC 21.30(b)-(c)
Presumption of Resident Status
A member of the U.S. Armed Services whose home of record with the military is Texas is presumed to be a Texas resident, as are his or her spouse and dependent children. A member whose home of record is not Texas but who provides the institution leave and earnings statements that show the member has claimed Texas as his or her place of residence for the 12 consecutive months prior to enrollment is presumed to be a Texas resident, as are his or her spouse and dependent children. 19 TAC 21.24(h)
Information Required To Initially Establish Resident Status
Evidence of Resident Status
To initially establish resident status under 19 Administrative Code 21.24, a person who qualifies for residency shall provide the institution with a completed set of Core Residency Questions. A person who qualifies for residency under 19 Administrative Code 21.24(a)(1) and who is not a Citizen of the United States or a Permanent Resident of the United States shall, in addition to the other requirements of this section, provide the institution, including a college district, with a signed affidavit in the form provided in 19 Administrative Code 21.25 Chart I stating that the person will apply to become a Permanent Resident of the U.S. as soon as the person becomes eligible to apply.
An institution may request that a person provide documentation to support or clarify the answers to the Core Residency Questions. Appropriate documents are not limited to those listed in 19 Administrative Code 21.25 Chart II. In addition, the institution may request documents that support the information the student may provide in the Core Residency Questions, Section H.
An institution shall not impose any requirements in addition to the requirements established in this section for a person to establish resident status. Education Code 54.075(b); 19 TAC 21.25.
Intent to Establish and Maintain Domicile in Texas
Although not conclusive or exhaustive, the following factors occurring throughout at least 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the census date of the semester in which a person seeks to enroll may lend support to a claim regarding the person’s intent to establish and maintain domicile in Texas:
- Sole or joint marital ownership of residential real property in Texas by the person seeking to enroll or the dependent’s parent, having established and maintained domicile at that residence;
- Ownership and customary management of a business, by the person seeking to enroll or the dependent’s parent, in Texas that is regularly operated without the intention of liquidation for the foreseeable future;
- Gainful employment in Texas by the person seeking to enroll or the dependent’s parent; and
- Marriage, by the person seeking to enroll or the dependent’s parent, to a person who has established and maintained domicile in Texas.
An individual whose initial purpose for moving to Texas is to attend an institution of higher education as a full-time student will be presumed not to have the required intent to make Texas his or her domicile; however, the presumption may be overruled by clear and convincing evidence.
An individual shall not ordinarily be able to establish domicile by performing acts that are directly related to fulfilling educational objectives or that are required or routinely performed by temporary residents of the state. 19 TAC 21.24(e)-(g)
Burden of Proof
The student has the burden of proof to show by clear and convincing evidence that residence or domicile, as appropriate, has been established and maintained. 19 TAC 21.24(b)
Blinn Board Policy FDA (LEGAL)
Written Documentation
At minimum, each institution must file and maintain a copy of one or more appropriately dated documents which will certify that the student classified as a resident has legal right to such classification as of the official census date of the semester or term for which enrolling. Documents acceptable but not limited to for this purpose include:
- Texas high school transcript
- Texas college or university transcript
- Employer statement of date of employment
- Permanent driver’s license (at least one-year-old); generally, the license expiration date minus date of enrollment should not exceed three years.
- Property tax payments
- Bank statement
- Utility bill
- Other third party documentations Chart III: 19 TAC §21.25(b) Documentation to Support Domicile and Residency http://info.sos.state.tx.us/fids/200802309-2.html
Students may be asked to present proof of residency at the time of initial admission or at any time following registration. A student who believes he/she qualifies for a change of residency status for tuition purposes may file a Petition for Change of Residency. The petition must be filed by the Official Day of Record (twelfth class day of regular semesters and fourth class day of summer semesters) in order to receive any refund of tuition paid.
State Residence Classification
Under state statutes and Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) rules and regulations interpreting these statutes, a prospective student will be classified as an in-state (in-district or out- of-district), out-of-state, or foreign student. A person who has lived in the state of Texas under circumstances specified in the THECB rules above will be eligible for classification as an in-state resident.
A person who has not been classified as an in-state resident but who is a United States citizen, a permanent resident of the United States, or an eligible nonimmigrant will be classified as an out-of-state resident.
A person who is not a United State citizen, permanent resident of the United States, does not hold a visa which allows domicile in the United States, or does not meet specific circumstances outlined by THECB above will be considered a Foreign Student.
District Residence Classification
An individual must first qualify for in-state residency before he or she may be classified as an in-district or out-of-district student. An individual who qualifies as an in-state resident may also qualify as an in-district resident if he or she has established residency in Washington County.
To establish residency in Washington County, a student or the parent of whom the student is a dependent, must establish a domicile* or own ad valorem tax property in Washington County not less than six months before the census date of the academic semester in which the student enrolls at the College District.
“Established domicile in Texas means physically residing in Texas with the intent to maintain domicile in Texas for at least the 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the census date of the term of enrollment, allowing for documented temporary absences. 19 TAC 21.22(10) Blinn Board Policy FDA (LEGAL)
All other in-state residents will be classified as out-of-district residents.
Residency rules are pursuant to change as per the Texas Legislature and the THECB. For the latest rules and regulations, contact the Admissions Office or view them on the THECB web site at www.thecb.state.tx.us/DocID/pdf/0183.pdf.
Classification of Students
A full-time student is one who is registered for 12 or more semester hours in a regular term or 4 or more hours in a summer term. In order to be classified with sophomore standing, a student must have completed a total of 30 or more semester hours.
Blinn Board Policy EGB (LOCAL)
Academic Transcript
An official transcript of college credits is a record of the student’s academic record bearing the college seal and the signature of the Registrar. Students may order a transcript anytime during a semester and/or request that it be held and then sent out after all current semester grades or degrees are posted. Official transcripts can be requested from Blinn College in one of two ways - online or in person (online requests are preferred and processed within 24 hours of receipt).
Official transcripts can also be obtained in person at Enrollment Services on the Brenham, Bryan, Schulenburg and Sealy campuses. The request must include full legal name or name attended under, dates of attendance, student ID/Social Security number, and a legible signature. All admission information must be on file, all holds cleared, before an official transcript will be released. Official transcripts can be requested by logging into myBlinn and completing the online request through Parchment. For those who do not have a myBlinn account, transcripts can be requested here.
Grades
At the end of each semester, students shall receive a final grade report that shall become a part of their permanent record. The College District’s grading system shall apply to all courses:
| A |
(90-100) - Excellent |
| B |
(80-89) - Good |
| C |
(70-79) - Average |
| D |
(60-69) - Poor |
| F |
(Below 60) - Failure |
| I |
Incomplete |
| IP |
In Progress |
| Q |
Dropped |
| W |
Dropped Due to Good Cause or Withdrawal from College |
| CR |
Credit |
| P |
Pass |
| NP |
Not Passing |
| FS |
Academic Fresh Start |
I - Incomplete: indicates that the coursework was incomplete because of serious illness or other justified emergency. The instructor shall change the grade of “I” to a grade based on the work completed for the course in addition to the work specified in the course completion contract. All incomplete work shall be completed within 90 days of the start of the next long semester. Failure to complete the work specified in the course completion contract shall result in a grade of zero, which shall be factored into the final grade calculation with appropriate weighting relative to other course grades.
IP - In Progress: The IP grade indicates that a grade is still in progress or that the course has not been concluded. An IP does not impact the student’s GPA; it is a placeholder until the student concludes the course and a final grade is awarded.
Q - Dropped: assigned before or on the official “Q-Date” as indicated on the College District calendar when a student is officially dropped from a course.
A “Q” may also be given after the “Q-Date” if the student is passing the course at the time the official drop is processed.
W - Dropped Due to Good Cause: assigned before or on the official “Q-Date” as indicated on the College District calendar when a student has officially withdrawn from the College District or is officially dropped from a course for any of the following “good cause” reasons:
- A severe illness or other debilitating condition that affects the student’s ability to satisfactorily complete a course;
- The care of a sick, injured, or needy person if providing that care affects the student’s ability to satisfactorily complete a course; relationship to the student;
- The death of a member of the student’s family;
- The death of a person who has a sufficiently close relationship to the student;
- The student’s active military duty service;
- The active military service of a member of the student’s family or a person who has a sufficiently close relationship to the student; or
- A change in the student’s work schedule that is beyond the student’s control and affects the student’s ability to satisfactorily complete the course.
For definitions of a student’s “family” and “a person who has a sufficiently close relationship to the student,” see DEFINITIONS FOR GOOD CAUSE EXEMPTION in ECC (LEGAL).
A “W” may also be assigned to a student not impacted by SB 1231 when he or she drops a course or withdraws from the College District.
Health Sciences Grading System
The grading system for Health Science programs may differ from the approved Blinn College Grading Scale as noted in their program handbook and course syllabi. Students not meeting these standards in competitive entry programs may continue to enroll in courses outside the discipline as long as they maintain minimum college requirements.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
College District progress is normally determined by a grade point average or ratio. Grade points shall be calculated by assigning values to each grade. The value is illustrated in the chart below:
| Grade |
Grade Points per Semester Hour |
| A |
4 |
| B |
3 |
| C |
2 |
| D |
1 |
| F |
0 |
| I, Q, W, CR |
0 |
| P, NP, FS |
0 |
The highest grade of a repeated course shall be used in determining the cumulative grade point average. A grade of “W” or “Q” shall not replace a grade of “F” or higher in a repeated course, but a grade of “F” shall replace a grade of “W” or “Q”.
All grades earned while enrolled in the College District shall be used in computing a student’s College District grade point average (GPA), except grades of I, W, Q, NP, P, FS, and CR.
The computation of a student’s College District Graduation GPA shall include transfer coursework but shall not include developmental coursework. [See “Degrees and Awards “ for detailed information about specific degree requirements.]
Grade Change
For any questions regarding grade changes, call the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at (979) 830-4130 . Blinn College procedure is that grades older than one year will not be changed.
Academic Fresh Start
State law (Education Code, Sec. 51.931) allows students who have academic credits earned 10 or more years prior to the starting date of the semester in which they seek admission to any public institution of higher education to have those credits or grades not considered in the admission decision. If admitted under this “academic fresh start” provision, the student may not receive any course credit for courses undertaken 10 or more years prior to enrollment.
Academic Good Standing
In order to remain in academic good standing with the College District, a student must maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 (C). A 2.0 cumulative grade point average is the minimum average required for graduation.
Credit for Military Experience and Coursework
Students may receive credit for military experience and courses taken while in the military. Two hours of Kinesiology credit will be awarded to students who have completed basic training. An official DD-214 must be on file in the Admissions and Records Office to receive this credit. The College also awards academic credit to students based on the American Council on Education (ACE) and Department of Defense (DOD) guidelines specified by their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) credentials. These recommendations are published in the Guide to the Evaluation of Educational Experiences in the Armed Services and are found online at http://www.acenet.edu/news-room/Pages/Military-Guide-Online.aspx. Both proficiency exam scores and completed service schools are documented on military separation papers such the DD-214 military release document, the Army/American Council on Education Registry Transcript System (AARTS), or the Sailor/Marine Corps/ACE Registry Transcript (SMART). The Registrar evaluates these documents and awards up to twelve hours of academic credit based on the ACE recommendation
Scholastic Probation or Suspension
A student who falls below a 2.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) at the close of any long semester or summer school will be placed on scholastic probation. A student who fails to achieve a minimum 2.0 semester and cumulative GPA at the end of subsequent semesters will be placed on scholastic suspension. A student with a semester GPA of greater than 2.0 and a cumulative GPA of less than 2.0 will remain on scholastic probation. Students being placed on scholastic probation [at the end of the long semester] will receive an email at their Blinn College Buc account. Students being placed on scholastic suspension [at the end of the long semester] will be mailed a letter at their permanent address and will receive an email at their Blinn College Buc account.
Students transferring from another college with less than a 2.0 GPA, if admitted, are admitted on scholastic probation. These students must meet the same requirements in subsequent semesters as all other students on scholastic probation (see above).
A student placed on scholastic probation becomes ineligible to be a candidate for an elective or appointive office of a college-sponsored activity or social organization. This restriction does not apply if participation in the activity or organization is part of the requirements of a college course. The student may be required to forfeit college scholarships, be ineligible to represent the College, and may be subject to a loss of veteran’s benefits and other financial aid. A student on scholastic probation is required to be advised prior to registration. A student that registers prior to the conclusion of the semester they are placed on probation must be re-advised in order to keep their courses.
A student placed on scholastic suspension will not be allowed to attend Blinn College for one long (fall, spring) semester. At the conclusion of this suspended semester, the student can reenter the College and will be placed on scholastic probation.
For those students who have been scholastically suspended but have extenuating circumstances preventing them from achieving the minimum 2.0 GPA, an appeal for reinstatement may be made. This appeal must be made in writing to the scholastic appeals committee. Information on the appeal procedure and deadline is included in the letter sent to suspended students. The decision of the scholastic appeals committee is final. No appeal for reinstatement may be made after the appeal deadline. If required, a student must make a separate appeal for reinstatement of financial aid funds.
Blinn Administrative Procedure
Disciplinary Probation
Blinn College maintains rules and regulations and reserves the right to dismiss or to place on disciplinary probation a student for violation and infraction of rules. The College reserves the right to remove the probation. A student who is placed on disciplinary probation forfeits the privilege to hold elective offices and honors.
If a student is placed on disciplinary probation or is dismissed by the Disciplinary Committee, the student will be afforded due process as provided by
Blinn Board Policy FMA (Local).
Tuition Charged for Excess Credit Hours
Students who accumulate 45 or more undergraduate semester hours beyond the minimum hours required for their first bachelor’s degree at a four-year university may be charged a higher tuition rate by the university. These hours will include hours earned at a community college and/or university. For example: Texas A&M University charges their non-resident tuition for hours earned over the excess amount.
The semester credit hours counted toward the limitation include all hours attempted by the student except: courses taken prior to fall 1999, developmental education courses, technical courses, and workforce education courses.
Limitation on the Number of Transfer Hours
Blinn College is ranked number one in the state of Texas for the percentage of academic students who transfer to senior colleges and universities in Texas. Students transferring to a college or university in Texas need to be aware that there are limits on the number of lower- division (freshman and sophomore) courses that Texas public universities accept in transfer. In many cases, the maximum number of lower-division semester credit hours accepted in transfer is sixty-six (66), although some universities may accept slightly more in special cases. If a student accumulates more than 66 semester credit hours in lower-division courses, it is unlikely that the additional hours will apply to a bachelor’s degree. Blinn’s advising staff can assist with making appropriate decisions, if the student’s goal is to transfer to a university and obtain a bachelor’s degree.
Important Information Related to Adding/Dropping/Deadlines of Courses
The Texas Education Code stipulates that for first time enrolled students, beginning with the Fall 2007 semester, an institution of higher education may not permit an undergraduate student a total of more than six (6) dropped courses, including any course a transfer student has dropped at another institution of higher education. Moreover, each institution must establish standards for “Good Cause” drops (SB 1231) Rule §4.10. (Note that a student may drop a course, without the ramifications of SB 1231, if the student was able to drop the course without receiving a grade or incurring an academic penalty.)
In compliance with SB 1231 the Blinn College Board of Trustees adopted local policies that affirm the state defined limit on the number of dropped courses and a specific set of exceptions (Good Cause Exemptions), which is detailed in Board Policy ECC (LOCAL) and published for students within the Admissions information section of the Blinn College Online Catalog.
Dropping Courses: It is the responsibility of the student to officially drop or withdraw from a course. Failure to drop/withdraw may result in a grade of “F” for the course. A grade of “Q” or “W” will be given for student-initiated withdrawals that are submitted on or before the withdrawal deadline.
Important Definitions:
A grade of “Q” is recorded for a student initiated drop that will be counted towards the six (6) drop rule.
A grade of “W” is recorded for a student initiated drop that indicates a “good cause” drop/withdrawal and does not count towards the 6 drop rule.
Good Cause Exceptions for Withdraw/Drop
Good cause shall be determined in Enrollment Services and will be based on the student choosing one of the aligned responses on the drop form that include: (1) Severe illness; (2) Care for a sick, injured, or needy person; (3) Death of a close relative; (4) Military Duty (to include a family member); (5) Change in work schedule; or (6) Other reason. This information may also be found in more detail within Board Policy ECC (LOCAL) and in the Blinn Catalog Online.
Board Policy ECC (LOCAL) specifically outlines the timeline for the designation of grades for student initiated withdrawals based on the length of the course. Prior to the Day of Record, no grade is awarded. After the Day of Record, students will receive a W only for the withdrawal from all classes or in the case that a “Good Cause” drop circumstance applies as defined by the state and Board Policy.
The Impact of a Drop on Student Grades
The following is the list of grade designations based on student initiated drop dates by session.
Adding and Dropping Courses
ADDING COURSES: No courses may be added later than the date specified in the college district calendar for that particular semester. A student adding a course must make up the work missed within two weeks after a course is added.
DROPPING COURSES: A student shall receive a grade of “W” or “Q” if they drop a class after the:
- first two weeks of a regular semester;
- fourth class day of a summer session;
- ninth class day of a 10-week summer session;
- second class day of a minimester;
- sixth class day of an 8-week session; or
- ninth class day of a 12-week session.
A student may drop a course with a grade of “W” or “Q” until the:
- Last class day of the 14th class week of a 16-week regular semester;
- Last class day of the 3rd class week of a 5-week summer session;
- Last class day of the 8th class week of a 10-week summer session;
- Last class day of the 2nd class week of a minimester;
- Last class day of the 6th week of an 8-week session; or
- Last class day of the 10th week of a 12-week session.
Students will be unable to drop or withdraw from a course(s) after the stated deadlines. If a student drops after the stated deadline, an earned grade of “F” shall be awarded. Blinn Board Policy ECC (Local)
The only exception for the grade of “Q” is in the case of the minimester. The “Q” designation does not pertain to the minimesters. Since a student may only enroll in one class, a drop in the minimester is a complete withdrawal and the grade status becomes a “W”.
A student disputing a final grade is required to initiate the final grade appeal with their instructor. The student must initiate this contact no later than the end of the next long semester. The appeals process is described in Board Policy FLDB (LOCAL).
The Drop/Withdrawal Chart that follows provides a quick reference to information contained within this document. However, for actual dates based on a specific semester, always consult the official online Blinn Academic Calendar.
16 Week Session
Time Frame |
Grade |
| First Day of class until Day of Record |
No grade |
| until the last class day of the 14th class week |
W or Q |
| Monday of the 15th class week until Finals Week |
F |
10 Week Summer Session
Time Frame |
Grade |
| First Day of class until Day Nine |
No grade |
| until the last class day of the 8th class week |
W or Q |
| Monday of the 9th class week until Finals |
F |
12 Week Session
Time Frame |
Grade |
| First Day of class until Day Nine |
No grade |
| until the last class day of the 10th class week |
W or Q |
| Monday of the 11th class week until Finals |
F |
8 Week Session
Time Frame |
Grade |
| First Day of class until Day Six |
No grade |
| until the last class day of the 6th class week |
W or Q |
| Monday of the 7th class week until Finals |
F |
5 Week Summer Session
Time Frame |
Grade |
| First Day of class until Day Four |
No grade |
| until the last class day of the 3rd class week |
W or Q |
| Monday of the 4th class week until Finals |
F |
Minimester Session
Time Frame |
Grade |
| First Day of class |
No grade |
| until the last class day of the 2nd class week |
W |
| Day 11 |
F |
| Final Grade Appeal Process From Board Policy FLDB (Local) |
| Informal Meeting between student and faculty. |
Level I |
| Conference between student and instructional dean |
Level II |
| Appeals Committee Hearing for student and faculty |
Level III |
| Decision of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs |
Final |
Withdrawals for Excessive Absences and the Six Drop Rule
Students who are administratively withdrawn from a course due to excessive absences will have that course counted toward the six drop rule.
Withdrawal from College
A student who desires to withdraw from the College District on or after the first day of class for a semester can do so by dropping all their classes through myBlinn. The effective date of withdrawal shall be the date when all classes have been dropped.
Blinn Board Policy ECC (Local)
Refunds
In accordance with state statute, if a student withdraws prior to the first day of the semester, all tuition, room, board, and fees (except registration fee and identification card fee) will be refunded.
Student Complaints: Course Grade Complaints Policy
Exclusions
Student complaints, including but not limited to, discriminatory issues are covered by separate procedures [see FLD]. Student complaints regarding disciplinary issues are covered by separate procedures [see FM and FMA].
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide students with an opportunity to appeal faculty decisions made in regards to scholastic dishonesty and final grades.
Scholastic Integrity -Faculty Responsibility and Student Rights
It is the responsibility of faculty to maintain scholastic integrity at the College District by refusing to tolerate any form of scholastic dishonesty. Adequate control of test materials, strict supervision during testing, and other preventive measures should be utilized, as necessary, to prevent cheating or plagiarism. If there is compelling evidence that a student is involved in cheating or plagiarism, the faculty member should assume responsibility and address the infraction. Likewise, any student accused of scholastic dishonesty is entitled to due process to resolve the allegation.
Scholastic Dishonesty
“Scholastic dishonesty” shall include, but not be limited to, cheating, plagiarism, and collusion.
“Cheating” shall include, but shall not be limited to:
- Copying from another student’s test or class work;
- Using test materials not authorized by the person administering the test;
- Collaborating with or seeking aid from another student during a test without permission from the test administrator;
- Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, or soliciting, in whole or in part, the contents of an unadministered test, paper, or another assignment;
- The unauthorized transporting or removal, in whole or in part, of the contents of the unadministered test;
- Substituting for another student, or permitting another student to substitute for one’s self, to take a test;
- Bribing another person to obtain an unadministered test or information about an unadministered test; or
- Manipulating a test, assignment, or final course grades.
“Plagiarism” shall be defined as the appropriating, buying, receiving as a gift, or obtaining by any means another’s work and the unacknowledged submission or incorporation of it in one’s own written work.
“Collusion” shall be defined as the unauthorized collaboration with another person in preparing written work for fulfillment of course requirements.
Scholastic Dishonesty Resolution
A student accused of scholastic dishonesty shall make an appointment with his or her faculty member. If the student does not appear for the appointment, the faculty will render a decision and, if applicable, an appropriate penalty for the infraction.
After discussing the incident with the student, the faculty member may dismiss the allegation, issue a verbal warning, issue a written warning (to be forwarded to Student Services for recordkeeping), assign a grade to the assignment, dismiss the student from the class, and/or assign a grade for the class.
A student who wishes to appeal the faculty member’s decision may appeal according to the process below.
Final Grade Dispute
The College District recognizes that the evaluation of student performance is based upon the professional judgment of its faculty. Faculty will clearly outline their grading procedure in their course syllabus. It is the student’s responsibility to be familiar with the grading process and seek clarification when needed. A student may question a course grade that the student believes has been awarded in a manner inconsistent with College District policies or class syllabus details or that has resulted from calculation errors on the part of the faculty member.
A student who has questions about his or her grade or who disagrees with a grade assigned should contact his or her faculty members to discuss his or her concerns as soon as possible following receipt of the grade.
Final Grade Dispute Resolution
A student disputing a grade shall make an appointment with his or her faculty member. Because grade and course materials are not readily accessible after the next long semester, the student must initiate contact no later than the end of the next long semester (e.g., fall to spring, spring to fall, and summer to fall). If the student does not appear for the appointment, the grade shall stand.
After discussing the incident with the student, the faculty member may change the grade or uphold the grade.
A student wishing to appeal the faculty member’s decision may appeal according to the process below.
Appeal Process
The process for appealing faculty decisions shall be initiated by the student as soon as possible following receipt of the decision but shall be filed no later than the end of the next long semester (e.g., fall to spring, spring to fall, and summer to fall).
The student shall be afforded the following rights within the academic appeals hearing process:
- Right to written notice of meeting dates and committee decisions.
- Right to discontinue the appeals process at any time.
- Right to reasonable access to the file relating to this matter. Reasonable access provides the student with an opportunity to review the case file in the presence of a College District faculty member, staff member, or other authorized designee of the College District. The student shall be entitled to photocopy relevant items that are directly related to his or her appeal.
- Right to appeal alone or with legal counsel. The student may not be represented by an attorney unless three days’ advanced written notice is provided to the College District detailing the name, address, and telephone number of the student’s intended counsel of record. The College District reserves the right, upon receipt of such notification, to have its legal representative present.
If the student wishes to appeal the findings at any level, it is the sole responsibility of the student to provide written notice of his or her intention, in that regard, to the administrator at the next highest level within the time frame(s) provided by this policy.
Definitions
The following definitions shall apply:
- Appeals Committee - For each appeal, a separate committee will be convened. The appropriate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, or his or her designee, will select the committee, which will be comprised of three faculty members who teach at the student’s home campus and the appropriate instructional dean, who shall serve as a nonvoting member of the committee and as chairperson. For students who attend any campuses other than the Brenham-Bryan campuses, the appeals process shall be the responsibility of, and shall take place on, the Brenham campus.
- Evidence - Written proof concerning disputed issues shall be the responsibility of the student. The course syllabus, with the method of grade calculation, and any other document that explains or clarifies issue being disputed will be included but will be provided by the student. The appeals committee may request clarification of information from the instructional dean.
Standard of Review
The standard of review to be used in all proceedings under this policy shall be that of fundamental fairness. Strict rules of evidence and procedure are not required so long as the proceedings are conducted in such a manner as to allow both sides the opportunity to fairly and fully explore the circumstances. Discussion regarding the same shall be made by the party who is conducting the hearing.
Level I
The meeting between the student and the faculty member shall represent Level I of the process and shall be considered an informal meeting. If a student has been unable to make contact with the faculty member, the student may make a direct appeal to Level II.
Level II
The conference between the student and the instructional dean represents Level II of the appeal.
Prior to or at the conference, the student and the faculty member shall submit a written statement and copies of all coursework or other appropriate documentation to the instructional dean for review. The instructional dean shall hear and evaluate the student’s complaint and shall then confer with the faculty member.
The instructional dean shall put in writing his or her findings and related decision.
If the conference is not resolved to the student’s satisfaction, the student shall have five class days from his or her receipt of written notification to respond to the instructional dean who will then defer to the appeals process for resolution. The instructional dean will notify the appropriate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs of this decision in writing within one class day. If the student does not request a hearing by an appeals committee within the five class days provided by this policy, the student will forfeit the right to any additional appeal.
Level III
The appeals committee shall be initiated at Level III of the appeal. This committee is an ad hoc committee chosen by the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs or his or her designee and shall be chaired by the appropriate instructional dean.
Upon notification of the student’s decision to pursue further appeal, the instructional dean will notify in writing the student, the faculty member, and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs that the dispute will be referred within five class days to an appeals committee for review. The instructional dean shall submit to the appeals committee copies of all written documentation obtained from the student and/or the faculty member and written instructions concerning assignments from the faculty member.
Within five to ten days of the receipt of the written materials, the committee chair will convene the appeals committee to review the written materials submitted and shall schedule the date, time, and location of the hearing. The committee chair will notify all parties of the hearing. The student and the faculty member shall receive written notification from the committee chairman that the issue will be reviewed by the committee within the given time frame.
The hearing shall provide an opportunity for both the student and the faculty member to be heard.
No new written evidence may be submitted at the hearing. If witnesses are to be presented, a list must be provided to the chairperson of the appeals committee prior to the scheduled hearing.
The appeals committee shall make a recommendation to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, who will then make a final decision and notify the student and faculty member in writing.
The decision of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs is final.
Blinn Board Policy FLDB (LOCAL)
Student Rights and Responsibilities: Student Complaints Policy
Blinn College is committed to providing an educational climate that is conducive to the personal and professional development of each individual. In order to ensure that commitment, the College District has developed procedures for students to pursue grievances within the college community, should such action become necessary. A student who has an unresolved disagreement or dissatisfaction with the College District, a faculty or staff member, another student, student group or administrator has the right to file a written complaint without prejudicing his or her status with the College District. It is the goal of the College District to assist all students in finding fair and just solutions to their concerns.
Definition
Complaints under this policy include concerns in areas where policy does not dictate formal appeal/complaint procedures.
Before filing a written complaint under this policy, the student must first have attempted to resolve the issue by discussing the concern with the person involved, if possible, and the appropriate dean or supervisor.
Exclusions
Student complaints regarding discipline, harassment, discrimination and retaliation, final grade appeals, and student housing appeals shall be covered by separate procedures. This policy is intended to be used only as a manner of appeal. [See FFD for complaints regarding discrimination, harassment, and retaliation; FFE for initial complaints regarding bullying; FG for complaints regarding student housing; FLDB for course grade complaints; and FMA for discipline hearing procedures]
The complaint process is not intended to address appeals related to decisions made in routine College District matters where appeal processes have been outlined.
For assistance in determining the correct procedure to follow or to identify the appropriate dean or supervisor for informal resolution, students can contact the dean of student success, the dean of distance learning, or one of the campus directors (Sealy and Schulenburg). The college catalog is also a source for policy and procedure details.
Complaint Procedure
If a student cannot resolve his or her concern informally as described above, the student may complete a student complaint form.
The Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Services or designee will review the submitted complaint and may request an appointment with the student to discuss the complaint.
The vice chancellor or designee will make a decision concerning the complaint and communicate the decision to the student in writing within thirty (30) days from when the complaint was filed.
The decision is final and cannot be appealed. The record of the complaint, including the decision, shall be filed in the Office of the Vice Chancellor, Student Services at 902 College Avenue, 213 Administration Building, Brenham, TX 77833 and at 979-830- 4150.
Blinn Board Policy FLD (LOCAL)
Student Rights and Responsibilities: Student Expression Policy
First Amendment
A governmental entity, including a college district, shall take no action respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Board for a redress of grievances.
Forum Analysis
Traditional Public Forum
A “traditional public forum” includes locations, such as sidewalks and parks, where members of the public have historically been permitted to gather and speak on any topic. An institution’s property is not a traditional public forum, with the exception of sidewalks, streets, and parks that are indistinguishable from surrounding city property.
If an institution’s property is deemed a traditional public forum, the entity may exclude particular content if that entity can assert a compelling governmental interest that is narrowly tailored to address that interest, a standard referred to as the “strict scrutiny” standard. The institution can also enforce viewpoint-neutral time, place, and manner restrictions to meet a compelling governmental interest if a sufficient number of alternative communication channels are available.
Designated Public Forum
A “designated public forum” is a forum that a college or university intentionally opens to the general public to discuss matters of public concern. Once designated, an institution may enforce reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. Any content limitations are subject to the strict scrutiny standard described above.
Limited Public Forum
A “limited public forum” is a forum that an institution opens to a particular group of speakers or for discussion regarding a particular topic. Within a limited public forum, limits on expression must be viewpoint-neutral and reasonable in light of the purpose of the forum. The government may impose reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions, as long as these restrictions do not relate to the content of the expression.
To distinguish between a designated public forum and a limited public forum, courts consider two factors:
- the intent of the institution regarding the forum, and
- the forum’s nature and compatibility with particular speech.
Nonpublic Forum
If an institution has not opened a public forum, it remains a “nonpublic forum”. Although limits on expression must be reasonable and viewpoint neutral even within a nonpublic forum, an institution will have greater discretion to control the content of speech within such a forum.
Protected Speech
The mere dissemination of ideas on the campus of an institution of higher education may not be restricted on the basis of conventions of decency, regardless of how offensive those ideas are to good taste. However, an institution has the authority to enforce reasonable regulations as to the time, place, and manner of speech and its dissemination. Also see Blinn Board Policies CHE(LEGAL) and CHE(LOCAL) for use of the College District’s mail system.
Blinn Board Policy FLA(LEGAL)
For specific rules related to the free speech area for each campus contact:
BRENHAM CAMPUS
Name: Dr. John Turner
Position: Executive Dean, Brenham Campus
Address: 902 College Avenue, Brenham 77833-4049
Office Telephone (979) 830-4316
BRYAN CAMPUS
Name: Dr. Jimmy Byrd
Position: Executive Dean, Bryan Campus
Address: 2423 Blinn Blvd., Bryan 77802
Office Telephone (979) 209-7287
RELLIS CAMPUS
Name: Chris Marrs
Position: Executive Dean, RELLIS Campus
Address: 1366 Bryan Rd., Bryan, TX 77807
Office Telephone (979) 691-2069
SCHULENBURG CAMPUS
Name: Rebecca Garlick
Position: Executive Dean, Schulenburg Campus
Address: 100 Ranger Drive, Schulenburg 78956
Office Telephone (979) 743-5222
SEALY CAMPUS
Name: Lisa Caton
Position: Executive Dean, Sealy Campus
Address: 3701 Outlet Center Drive, Suite 250 Sealy 77474
Office Telephone (979) 627-0286
Student Rights and Responsibilities: Student Expression Policy
Distribution of Literature
Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the College District shall not be sold, circulated, or distributed on College District premises by any College District student or registered student organization [see FKC], in accordance with this policy and administrative procedures adopted pursuant to this policy.
The College District shall not be responsible for, nor shall the College District endorse, the contents of any nonschool literature distributed by students or registered student organizations.
This policy shall not apply to materials distributed under the supervision of instructional personnel as a part of instruction or as part of other authorized classroom or College District-sponsored activities. Additionally, nothing in this policy is intended to preclude the exchange of private notes and materials and like items between individuals who have a personal relationship or kinship.
[For distribution of nonschool literature by nonstudents and organizations that are not registered student organizations, see GF]
Limitations on Content
Nonschool literature shall not be distributed by students or registered student organizations on College District property if:
- The materials are obscene.
- The materials contain defamatory statements about public figures or others.
- The materials advocate imminent lawless or disruptive action and are likely to incite or produce such action.
- The materials constitute unlawful harassment. [See DIA series and FFD series]
- The materials constitute impermissible solicitation. [See FI]
- The materials infringe upon intellectual property rights of the College District. [See CT]
Time, Place, and Manner Restrictions
The vice chancellor, student services or designee shall designate times, locations, and means by which nonschool literature that complies with this policy, may be made available or distributed by students or registered student organizations to students or others on College District premises.
Administrative procedures adopted pursuant to this policy shall not discriminate based on the content or viewpoint of the literature or on the expected reaction of others to the literature.
Distribution of the nonschool literature shall be conducted in a manner that:
- Is not materially disruptive [see FLB];
- Does not impede reasonable access to College District facilities;
- Does not result in damage to College District property;
- Does not include any prolonged or repeated contact with persons who have declined the literature;
- Does not cause a substantial invasion of the rights of others; and
- Does not violate local, state, or federal laws or College District policies and procedures.
The distributor shall make a reasonable effort to retrieve and remove any literature that was discarded or not distributed.
Display of Signs
For the purposes of this policy, “sign” shall be defined as a hand-held billboard, decal, notice, placard, poster, banner, or other message-bearing material that can be held or carried by a person, and “posting” shall be defined as any means used for displaying a sign in a fixed location.
Except for signs that violate the limitations on content, as described above, a student may publicly carry a sign in outdoor common areas of the College District in accordance with time, place, and manner rules established by the administration. Hand-carried signs may not be used in a manner that blocks or obstructs windows or pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
A sign shall not be attached or posted to any College District building, lawn, light pole, fence, fixture, shrub, plant, tree, or fire hydrant. Unattended signs are not permitted, except as outlined below.
Exceptions
Students who live in on-campus housing may place a posting on the doors of their rooms to which they are assigned in accordance with administrative procedures.
Registered student organizations may place postings on outdoor community bulletin boards or kiosks that are maintained for that purpose. The signs shall be posted and removed in accordance with administrative procedures.
Registered student organizations may request to make postings on indoor bulletin boards. The postings shall be posted and removed in accordance with administrative procedures.
Removal
A student or registered student organization shall remove each posting from a community bulletin board or kiosk not later than 14 days after posting or, if it relates to an event, not longer than 48 hours after the event to which it relates has ended.
Disclaimer
When reasonably necessary to avoid likely confusion, literature distributed by a registered student organization must include a disclaimer indicating that the literature is not sponsored by the College District and does not represent the views of the College District or College District officials, faculty, or staff.
Identification
Students or registered student organizations distributing materials on campus shall provide identification when requested to do so by a College District representative.
Violations of Policy
Failure to comply with the policy and procedures regarding distribution of nonschool literature shall result in appropriate administrative action, including but not limited to confiscation of nonconforming materials, suspension of a student’s or registered student organization’s use of College District facilities, and/or other disciplinary action in accordance with the College District’s discipline policies and procedures [see FM and FMA].
Appeals
The administration shall maintain a procedure providing for a prompt appeal of a decision denying a request. The procedure shall require that the appeal be heard within five business days of the filing of the appeal.
Blinn Board Policy FLA (LOCAL)
Student Rights and Responsibilities: Student Conduct Policy
Definition
Definitions of terms used in this policy shall be as follows.
Student
A “student” shall mean one who is currently enrolled in the College District. These policies and regulations shall also apply to any prospective or former student who has been accepted for admission or readmission to any component institution while he or she is on the premises of any component institution.
Premises
The “premises” of the College District is defined as all real property over which the College District has possession and control.
Disorderly Conduct
“Disorderly conduct’” shall include any of the following activities occurring on premises owned or controlled by the College District:
- Behavior of a boisterous and tumultuous character such that there is a clear and present danger of alarming persons where no legitimate reason for alarm exists.
- Interference with the peaceful and lawful conduct of persons under circumstances in which there is reason to believe that such conduct will cause or provoke a disturbance.
- Violent and forceful behavior at any time such that there is a clear and present danger that free movement of other persons will be impaired.
- Behavior involving personal abuse or assault when such behavior creates a clear and present danger of causing assaults or fights.
- Violent, abusive, indecent, profane, boisterous, unreasonably loud, or otherwise disorderly conduct under circumstances in which there is reason to believe that such conduct will cause or provoke a disturbance.
- Willful and malicious behavior that interrupts the speaker of any lawful assembly or impairs the lawful right of others to participate effectively in such assembly or meeting when there is reason to believe that such conduct will cause or provoke a disturbance.
- Willful and malicious behavior that obstructs or causes the obstruction of any doorway, hall, or any other passageway in a College District building to such an extent that the employees, officers, and other persons, including visitors, having business with the College District are denied entrance into, exit from, or free passage in such building.
Responsibility
Each student shall be charged with notice and knowledge of, and shall be required to comply with, the contents and provisions of the College District’s rules and regulations concerning student conduct.
All students shall obey the law, show respect for properly constituted authority, and observe correct standards of conduct. Each student shall be expected to:
- Demonstrate courtesy, even when others do not;
- Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising self-discipline;
- Attend all classes, regularly and on time;
- Prepare for each class and take appropriate materials and assignments to class;
- Obey all classroom rules;
- Respect the rights and privileges of students, faculty, and other College District staff and volunteers;
- Respect the property of others, including College District property and facilities; and
- Cooperate with and assist the College District staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.
Prohibited Conduct
The following behavior shall be prohibited:
Federal, State, and Local Law
- Violations of federal, state, or local law or College District policies, procedures, or rules, including the college catalog.
Prohibited Weapons
- Possession, distribution, sale, or use of firearms or other prohibited weapons without prior approval. [See FLBF]
Drugs and Alcohol
- The use, possession, control, manufacture, transmission, or sale, or being under the influence, of a drug or narcotic through any or no device, as those terms are defined by the Texas Controlled Substances Act, or other prohibited substances described in FLBD, unless under the direction of a physician.
- The use, possession, control, manufacture, transmission, or sale of paraphernalia related to any prohibited substance.
- The use, possession, control, manufacture, transmission, or sale, or being under the influence, of alcohol or other intoxicating beverage without the permission of the College District.
Debts
- Owing a monetary debt to the College District that is considered delinquent or writing an “insufficient funds” check to the College District.
Disruptions
- “Disorderly conduct”, as defined above, or disruptive behavior.
- Disrupting the orderly operations of a campus or College District facility.
Behavior Targeting Others
- Threatening another person, including a student or employee.
- Intentionally, knowingly, or negligently causing physical harm to any person.
- Engaging in conduct that constitutes harassment, bullying, or dating violence directed toward another person, including a student or employee. [See DIA, FFD, and FFE as appropriate]
- Hazing with or without the consent of a student. [See FLBC]
- Initiations by organizations that include features that are dangerous, harmful, or degrading to the student, a violation of which also renders the organization subject to appropriate discipline.
- Endangering the health or safety of members of the College District community or visitors to the premises.
Property
- Intentionally, knowingly, or negligently defacing, damaging, misusing, or destroying College District property or property owned by others.
- Stealing from the College District or others.
Directives
- Failure to comply with directives given by College District personnel.
- Failure to provide identification when requested to do so by College District personnel.
Tobacco Use
- Tobacco use through any or no device in College District-owned, -leased, or -controlled vehicles, buildings, property, or other facilities.
Exception
Tobacco use shall be permitted only in designated outdoor areas clearly marked with signs and in private vehicles on College District property.
Enforcement
The enforcement methods for noncompliance of the tobacco use provisions are as follows:
- The violator may be issued a fine of $25.
- The violator may be escorted off campus/property.
- The violator may be charged with criminal trespass.
Misuse of Technology
- Violating policies, rules, or agreements signed by the student regarding the use of technology resources.
- Attempting to access or circumvent passwords or other security-related information of the College District, students, or employees or uploading or creating computer viruses.
- Attempting to alter, destroy, or disable College District technology resources including but not limited to computers and related equipment, College District data, the data of others, or other networks connected to the College District’s system.
- Using the Internet or other electronic communications to threaten College District students, employees, or volunteers.
- Sending, posting, or possessing electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal.
- Using e-mail or websites to engage in or encourage illegal behavior or threaten the safety of the College District, students, employees, or visitors.
- Possessing published or electronic material that is designed to promote or encourage illegal behavior or that could threaten the safety of the College District, students, employees, or visitors.
Dishonesty
- Making false accusations or `perpetrating hoaxes regarding the safety of the College District, students, employees, or visitors.
- Intentionally or knowingly providing false information to the College District.
- Intentionally or knowingly falsifying records, passes, or other College District-related documents.
Gambling
- Gambling.
Other Conduct
- Engaging in any conduct that College District officials might reasonably believe will substantially disrupt the College District program or incite violence.
Discipline
A student shall be subject to discipline, including suspension, in accordance with FM and FMA if the student violates this policy:
- While on College District premises;
- While attending a College District activity; or
- While elsewhere if the behavior adversely impacts the educational environment or otherwise interferes with the College District’s operations or objectives.
Publication
The student conduct rules contained in this policy and any other conduct rules of the College District developed by the District Chancellor shall be published in the college catalog.
Blinn Board Policy FLB (LOCAL)
Student Conduct: Prohibited Organizations and Hazing Policy
Hazing Offense
A person commits an offense if the person:
Personal
- Engages in hazing.
- Solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in engaging in hazing.
- Has first-hand knowledge of the planning of a specific hazing incident involving a student in an educational institution, including a college district, or first-hand knowledge that a specific hazing incident has occurred, and knowingly fails to report that knowledge in writing to the dean of students or other appropriate official of the institution.
Organization
An organization commits an offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commits or assists in the commission of hazing.
Definitions
“Hazing” means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or the safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include other students. The term includes:
- Any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity.
- Any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.
- Any activity involving consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.
- Any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame, or humiliation, or that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the institution rather than submit to acts described above.
- Any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the Penal Code.
“Organization” means a fraternity, sorority, association, corporation, order, society, corps, club, or service, social, or similar group, whose members are primarily students.
“Student” means any person who:
- Is registered in or in attendance at an educational institution;
- Has been accepted for admission at the educational institution where the hazing incident occurs; or
- Intends to attend an educational institution during any of its regular sessions after a period of scheduled vacation.
Blinn Board Policy FLBC (LEGAL)
Discipline and Penalties: Discipline Hearings Procedures Policy
Reports of Alleged Misconduct
Unless another policy governs the processing of a complaint - such as bullying or dating violence [see FFE]; discrimination, harassment and retaliation [see FFD] - College District faculty, staff, and students shall submit an alleged violation or violations of College District policies and procedures, including the rules for student conduct [see FLB], committed by a student to the vice chancellor, student services within thirty (30) calendar days. The allegations must be submitted in writing, through traditional or electronic means, and must describe the alleged violation and any surrounding facts.
The vice chancellor, student services or designee shall investigate the matter as necessary. If an allegation is deemed to be unfounded, the vice chancellor, student services or designee shall dismiss the alleged violation and shall provide the student who is the subject of the allegation a written notice that the allegation of misconduct was made against the student and that the allegation was dismissed.
Conference
If, however, the vice chancellor, student services or designee determines that the allegation warrants further consideration, the vice chancellor, student services or designee shall require the student who is the subject of the allegation to attend a conference to be held within a reasonable time frame, not to exceed ten (10) College District business days, following the receipt of the alleged violation of misconduct.
At the conference, the vice chancellor, student services or designee shall notify the student of the allegation(s) and provide the student an opportunity to respond.
Unfounded Allegations
After conferring with the student, if the vice chancellor, student services or designee determines that the student did not commit a violation of College District policies and/or procedures, including the rules of student conduct, then the allegation(s) shall be dismissed as unfounded. The student shall be provided written notice of the dismissal.
Misconduct Warranting a Sanction
If the vice chancellor, student services or designee determines that the student committed a violation of College District policies and/or procedures that warrants a sanction, the vice chancellor, student services or designee shall inform the student in writing of the determination and the student’s right of disciplinary appeal.
Interim Disciplinary Suspension
In a situation where it is determined that a student’s continued presence at the college constitutes an immediate threat of harm to the student, other individuals, and/or College property or presents a threat of disrupting the educational environment, the vice chancellor, student services or designee may suspend a student pending final disposition of the case through the College discipline process.
Student Right of Disciplinary Appeal
A student has the right to appeal an initial administrative disposition to the chairperson of the disciplinary appeals committee. The chairperson shall notify the student and the committee of the appeal date, time, and location to review the administrative disposition in question. Following the appeal process, the chairperson will notify the student of the committee’s decision, and this decision will serve as the concluding administrative action regarding the violation. Except when a student has been suspended from the campus by the District Chancellor or designee, all penalties except interim suspension or expulsion shall be held in abeyance until the student accepts the penalty given or the appeals process has ended.
Disciplinary Appeals Committee
The disciplinary appeals committee shall be convened:
- At the request of a student appealing an administrative disposition. The request must be filed in writing, on a form provided by the College District, within one (1) College District business day of the receipt of the administration’s disposition; or
- At the request of the vice chancellor, student services or an appointed designee.
Student Request of Disciplinary Appeal
When a student refuses administrative disposition of a violation and appeals the disposition, the student is entitled to a hearing before the disciplinary appeals committee. This request must be made in writing to the chairperson within one (1) College District business day following administrative disposition. The request shall include:
- Name, address, and student I.D. number;
- Description, date(s) and place(s) of alleged act(s) for which the student was disciplined;
- Date of administrative disposition;
- Nature of disciplinary measure;
- Circumstances that the student feels should be reviewed;
- The student’s signature and date; and
- The student’s intention, if any, of having an attorney present for the hearing. The attorney will not be allowed to question witnesses but only to advise the student except in hearings brought under Section 51.233-234 regarding withdrawal of consent to remain on campus during periods of disruption or if there is a determination that the student is unable to question witnesses due to extenuating circumstances.
Student Notification of Appeal Hearing
The chairperson of the disciplinary appeals committee shall notify the student by letter of the date, time and location of the appeals hearing. Unless the student and the vice chancellor, student services or designee otherwise agree, the appeal shall take place within a reasonable time period, not to exceed five (5) College District business days, after the date of the student’s request for the appeal.
The chairperson of the disciplinary committee shall notify the student of the appeal date, time, and location of hearing and shall advise the student of the right to:
- Have a private hearing;
- Appear alone or with legal counsel;
- Have the student’s parents or guardian present at the hearing;
- Require the production of documentation and other evidence possessed by the College District regarding the alleged violation; and
- Arrange to have a stenographer present at the hearing to make a transcript of the hearing at the student’s expense (the student is not permitted to record the hearing by electronic means).
Failure to Appear for Hearing
The disciplinary appeals committee may impose appropriate sanctions upon a student who, without good cause, fails to appear at his or her designated appeal hearing. For purposes of assessing sanctions, the committee may proceed with the hearing.
Procedure
The hearing shall be informal, and the chairperson shall provide reasonable opportunities for witnesses to be heard. The College District may be represented by legal counsel if the student is to be represented by legal counsel. The hearing shall be closed, except that, with the consent or on invitation of the student, members of the student’s immediate family and the student’s attorney may attend. The committee shall proceed as follows during the hearing:
- The chairperson shall read the description of the alleged violation.
- The chairperson shall inform the student of his or her rights.
- The vice chancellor or designee shall present the College District’s case.
- The student shall present the student’s response.
- The designated College District official or representative shall present rebuttal evidence.
- The student shall summarize his or her case.
- The designated College District official or representative shall summarize the College District’s case.
- The committee members shall meet alone to deliberate the case. The committee members shall vote on the issue of whether or not the student violated the College District policies and procedures.
- Based on a majority vote, if the committee finds the student in violation, the committee will determine the appropriate sanction.
- The chairperson shall inform the student of the committee’s decision and sanction, if any, immediately following the hearing.
Evidence
Legal rules of evidence shall not apply to hearings brought under this policy. The committee may admit and consider evidence that possesses probative value and is commonly accepted by reasonable persons in the conduct of affairs. The committee shall exclude irrelevant, immaterial, and unduly repetitious evidence. Committee members may freely question witnesses, but committee members are not subject to questioning. The committee shall presume no violation has occurred and will make its decision based on the evidence presented. All evidence shall be offered to the committee during the hearing and made part of the hearing record. Documentary evidence may be admitted in the form of copies. Tangible evidence may be photographed or described for the records. The committee shall decide whether a violation has occurred and an appropriate sanction solely on the basis of preponderance of the evidence. The committee may consider a student’s grades and disciplinary record only in determining an appropriate sanction after finding the student in violation.
Record
The hearing record shall include a copy of the notice of hearing, all documentation and other evidence offered or admitted at the hearing, minutes of the hearing, and the committee’s decisions.
The committee chairperson, shall send the record to the District Chancellor, vice chancellor, student services, and designated College District administrators, with a copy to the student, within one (1) College District business day of the hearing.
Sanctions
A student shall be subject to disciplinary sanctions for violations of College District policies and procedures per FM (Local).
Once a sanction has been imposed by the committee, the chairperson shall notify the student of the committee’s decision, and this decision shall serve as the concluding administrative action regarding the violation. There is no right to appeal to the vice chancellor, student services, District Chancellor, Board, or any appointed designee(s), however, the vice chancellor, student services, District Chancellor, Board, and any appointed designee may amend the committee’s findings at their sole discretion.
Section 51.234 Provisions
If a student is notified in accordance with Section 51.234 of the Texas Education Code that consent to remain on the campus or facility under the control of the College District has been withdrawn due to reasonable cause to believe that the person has willfully disrupted the orderly operation of the campus or facility and will constitute a substantial and material threat to the orderly operation of the campus or facility, the student may request a hearing. A student requesting a hearing under this provision has the following rights:
- The right to be represented by counsel;
- The right to call and examine witnesses and to cross-examine adverse witnesses;
- The right to have all matters upon which the decision may be based introduced into evidence at the hearing in the student’s presence;
- The right to have the decision based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing;
- The right to prohibit the introduction of statements made against him or her unless the student has been advised of the content and the names of the person who made the statements and has been given the opportunity to rebut unfavorable inferences that might otherwise be drawn; and
- The right to have all findings made at the hearing be final, subject only to the student’s right to appeal to the District Chancellor and the Board.
Blinn Board Policy FMA (LOCAL)
Student Welfare: Freedom from Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy
Note: This policy addresses discrimination, harassment, and retaliation targeting College District students. For the College District’s response regarding discrimination, harassment, and retaliation targeting College District employees, see DIA.
Statement of Nondiscrimination
The College District prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, or any other basis prohibited by law. Retaliation against anyone involved in the complaint process is a violation of College District policy and is prohibited.
Discrimination
Discrimination against a student is defined as conduct directed at a student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, or on any other basis prohibited by law, that adversely affects the student.
Prohibited Harassment
Prohibited harassment of a student is defined as physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct based on the student’s race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, age, or any other basis prohibited by law that is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that the conduct limits or denies a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the College District’s educational program.
Examples
Examples of prohibited harassment may include offensive or derogatory language directed at another person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; threatening, intimidating, or humiliating conduct; offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; display of graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property.
Sexual Harassment by an Employee
Sexual harassment of a student by a College District employee includes unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; sexually motivated physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct; or other conduct or communication of a sexual nature when a College District employee causes the student to believe that the student must submit to the conduct in order to participate in a school program or activity, or that the employee will make an educational decision based on whether or not the student submits to the conduct. The conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it limits or denies the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the College District’s educational program.
By Others
Sexual harassment of a student, including harassment committed by another student, includes unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or sexually motivated physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct when the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it limits or denies a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the College District’s educational program.
Examples
Examples of harassing behavior include, but are not limited to, unwelcome and inappropriate touching, sexually suggestive remarks or gestures, unsolicited pornographic materials, obscene messages sent via text or computer, pressure for sexual activity, and sexual assault and rape.
Sexual Violence
Sexual violence is a form of sexual harassment. Sexual violence includes physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent due to the victim’s use of drugs or alcohol or due to an intellectual or other disability.
Sexual assault is defined as any unwanted, non-consensual sexual contact against any individual by another. Sexual assault can occur either forcibly (against a person’s will) or when a person cannot give consent (under the age of consent, intoxicated, developmentally disabled, or mentally/physically unable to consent).
Rape is defined as nonconsensual sexual intercourse that involves the use of threat of force, violence, or immediate and unlawful bodily injury or threats of future retaliation and duress. When the person is incapable of giving consent because he or she is incapacitated from alcohol and/or drugs, or if a mental disorder or developmental or physical disability renders the victim incapable of giving consent, this is nonconsensual.
Examples
Examples of sexual harassment of a student may include sexual advances; touching intimate body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; rape; sexual assault; sexual battery; sexual coercion; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact.
Physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature is not sexual harassment.
Gender-Based Harassment
Gender-based harassment includes physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct based on the student’s gender, the student’s expression of characteristics perceived as stereotypical for the student’s gender, or the student’s failure to conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity. For purposes of this policy, gender-based harassment is considered prohibited harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that the conduct limits or denies a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the College District’s educational program.
Examples
Examples of gender-based harassment directed against a student, regardless of the student’s or the harasser’s actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, may include offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; threatening or intimidating conduct; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property.
Retaliation
The College District prohibits retaliation by a student or College District employee against a student alleged to have experienced discrimination or harassment or another student who, in good faith, makes a report of harassment or discrimination, serves as a witness, or otherwise participates in an investigation.
Examples
Examples of retaliation may include threats, rumor spreading, ostracism, assault, destruction of property, unjustified punishments, or unwarranted grade reductions. Unlawful retaliation does not include petty slights or annoyances.
False Claims
A student who intentionally makes a false claim, offers false statements, or refuses to cooperate with a College District investigation regarding discrimination or harassment shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
Prohibited Conduct
In this policy, the term “prohibited conduct” includes discrimination, harassment, and retaliation as defined by this policy, even if the behavior does not rise to the level of unlawful conduct.
Reporting Procedures
Student Report
Any student who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited conduct or believes that another student has experienced prohibited conduct should immediately report the alleged acts to a responsible employee (any College District employee, resident assistant (RA), campus police officer).
Employee Report
Any College District employee, resident assistant (RA), campus police officer who suspects and any responsible employee who or receives notice that a student or group of students has or may have experienced prohibited conduct shall immediately notify the appropriate College District official listed in this policy and shall take any other steps required by this policy.
Exceptions
A person who holds a professional license requiring confidentiality, such as a counselor, or who is supervised by such a person shall not be required to disclose a report of prohibited conduct without the student’s consent.
A person who is a non-professional counselor or advocate designated in administrative procedures as a confidential source shall not be required to disclose information regarding an incident of prohibited conduct that constitutes personally identifiable information about a student or other information that would indicate the student’s identity without the student’s consent, unless the person is disclosing information as required for inclusion in the College District’s annual security report under the Clery Act [see GAC].
Responsible Employee
For purposes of this policy, a “responsible employee” is an employee:
- Who has the authority to remedy prohibited conduct.
- Who has been given the duty of reporting incidents of prohibited conduct.
- Whom a student reasonably believes has the authority to remedy prohibited conduct or has been given the duty of reporting incidents of prohibited conduct.
The College District designates the following persons as responsible employees: any College District employee, resident assistant (RA), campus police officer.
Definition of College District Officials
For the purposes of this policy, College District officials are the ADA/Section 504 coordinators, the Title IX coordinator/ specialist, and the District Chancellor or designee.
ADA / Section 504 Coordinators
Reports of discrimination based on disability may be directed to the appropriate ADA/Section 504 coordinator. The College District designates the following persons to coordinate its efforts to comply with Title II of the American Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, which incorporates and expands the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended:
Brenham, Schulenburg, & Sealy Campuses:
Sophia Polk, Director, Disability Services
902 College Avenue, Brenham, TX 77833
(979) 830-4134 or brenham.ods@blinn.edu
Brenham Campus: Administration Bldg., Suite 104
Bryan and RELLIS Campuses:
Samantha Johnson, Director, Disability Services
2423 Blinn Boulevard, Bryan, TX 77802
Bryan Campus: Room D-160
(979) 209-7251 or bryan.ods@blinn.edu
RELLIS Campus: Schwartz Building, Suite 230
(979) 209-8947 or rellis.ods@blinn.edu
Title IX Coordinator/Specialist
Reports of discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment/violence or gender-based harassment, may be directed to a responsible employee (any College District employee, the Title IX coordinators/specialist resident assistant (RA), or campus police officer). The College District designates the following persons to coordinate its efforts to comply with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, as amended:
Title IX Coordinator:
Dr. Bennie Graves, Dean, Resolution Management & Title IX
902 College Avenue, Brenham, TX 77833
(979) 830-4701 or bgraves@blinn.edu
Deputy Coordinator-Schulenburg Campus:
Dr. Becky Garlick, Executive Dean,
Blinn Schulenburg Campus
100 Ranger Drive, Schulenburg, TX 78956
(979) 743-5222 or bgarlick@blinn.edu
Deputy Coordinator-Sealy Campus:
Lisa Caton, Executive Dean, Blinn Sealy Campus
3701 Outlet Center Drive, Sealy, TX 77474
(979) 627-0286 or lisa.caton@blinn.edu
Investigator:
Dr. Adrienne McCain, Title IX Investigator
902 College Avenue, Brenham, TX 77833
(979) 830-4216 or adrienne.mccain@blinn.edu
College District Other Anti-Discrimination Laws Coordinator
The District Chancellor or designee shall serve as coordinator for purposes of College District compliance with all other antidiscrimination laws.
Alternative Reporting Procedures
A student shall not be required to report prohibited conduct to the person alleged to have committed the conduct. Reports concerning prohibited conduct, including reports against the ADA/Section 504 coordinators or the Title IX coordinator/ specialist may be directed to the District Chancellor or designee.
A report against the District Chancellor or designee may be made directly to the Board. If a report is made directly to the Board, the Board shall appoint an appropriate person to conduct an investigation.
Timely Reporting
Reports of prohibited conduct shall be made as soon as possible after the alleged act or knowledge of the alleged act. A failure to immediately report may impair the College District’s ability to investigate and address the prohibited conduct.
Investigation of the Report
The College District may request, but shall not require, a written report. If a report is made orally, the College District official shall reduce the report to written form.
Initial Assessment
Upon receipt or notice of a report, the College District official shall determine whether the allegations, if proven, would constitute prohibited conduct as defined by this policy. If so, the College District official shall immediately authorize or undertake an investigation, except as provided below at CRIMINAL
Investigation
If the College District official determines that the allegations, if proven, would not constitute prohibited conduct as defined by this policy, the College District official shall refer the complaint for consideration under the appropriate College District process.
Interim Action
If appropriate and regardless of whether a criminal or regulatory investigation regarding the alleged conduct is pending, the College District shall promptly take interim action calculated to address prohibited conduct prior to the completion of the College District’s investigation.
College District Investigation
The investigation may be conducted by the College District official or designee(s) or by a third party designated by the College District, such as an attorney. The investigator shall have received appropriate training regarding the issues related to the complaint and the relevant College District’s policy and procedures
The investigation may consist of personal interviews with the person making the report, the person against whom the report is filed, and others with knowledge of the circumstances surrounding the allegations. The investigation may also include analysis of other information or documents related to the allegations.
Criminal Investigation
If a law enforcement or regulatory agency notifies the College District that a criminal or regulatory investigation has been initiated, the College District shall confer with the agency to determine if the College District’s investigation would impede the criminal or regulatory investigation. The College District shall proceed with its investigation only to the extent that it does not impede the ongoing criminal or regulatory investigation. After the law enforcement or regulatory agency has completed gathering its evidence, the College District shall promptly resume its investigation.
Concluding the Investigation
Absent extenuating circumstances, such as a request by a law enforcement or regulatory agency for the College District to delay its investigation, the investigation should be completed within ten College District business days from the date of the report; however, the investigator shall take additional time if necessary to complete a thorough investigation.
The investigator shall prepare a written report of the investigation. The report shall be filed with the College District official overseeing the investigation.
Notification of Outcome
The College District shall provide written notice of the outcome, within the extent permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) or other law, to the victim and the person against whom the complaint is filed.
College District Action
Prohibited Conduct
If the results of an investigation indicate that prohibited conduct occurred, the College District shall promptly respond by taking appropriate disciplinary or corrective action reasonably calculated to address the conduct in accordance with College District policy and procedures [see FM and FMA].
Corrective Action
Examples of corrective action may include a training program for those involved in the complaint, a comprehensive education program for the College District community, counseling to the victim and the student who engaged in prohibited conduct, followup inquiries to determine if any new incidents or any instances of retaliation have occurred, involving students in efforts to identify problems and improve the College District climate, increasing staff monitoring of areas where prohibited conduct has occurred, and reaffirming the College District’s policy against discrimination and harassment.
Exception
The College District shall minimize attempts to require a student who complains of sexual harassment to resolve the problem directly with the person who engaged in the harassment; however, if that is the most appropriate resolution method, the College District shall be involved in an appropriate manner. Mediation shall not be used to resolve sexual harassment complaints.
Improper Conduct
If the investigation reveals improper conduct that did not rise to the level of prohibited conduct, the College District may take disciplinary action in accordance with College District policy and procedures or other corrective action reasonably calculated to address the conduct.
Confidentiality
To the greatest extent possible, the College District shall respect the privacy of the complainant, persons against whom a report is filed, and witnesses. Limited disclosures may be necessary in order to conduct a thorough investigation and comply with applicable law.
Appeal
A student who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal through FLD (LOCAL), beginning at the appropriate level. A student shall be informed of his or her right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.
Records Retention
Retention of records shall be in accordance with the College District’s records retention procedures. [See CIA]
Access to Policy, Procedures, & Related Materials
Information regarding this policy and any accompanying procedures, as well as relevant educational and resource materials concerning the topics discussed in this policy, shall be distributed annually to College District employees and students in a manner calculated to provide easy access and wide distribution, such as through electronic distribution and inclusion in major College District publications. Information regarding the policy, procedures, and related materials shall also be prominently published on the College District’s website. Copies of the policy and procedures shall be readily available at the College District’s administrative offices and shall be distributed to a student who makes a report.
Blinn Board Policy FFD (Local)
Student Welfare: Freedom from Bullying Policy
Note: This policy addresses bullying targeting College District students. For provisions regarding discrimination and harassment targeting College District students, see FFD.
Bullying Prohibited
The College District prohibits bullying as defined by this policy. Retaliation against anyone involved in the complaint process is a violation of College District policy and is prohibited.
Definitions - Bullying
Bullying occurs when a student or group of students engages in written or verbal expression, expression through electronic means, or physical conduct that occurs on College District property, at a College District-sponsored or College District-related activity, or in a vehicle operated by the College District and that:
- Has the effect or will have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student’s property; or
- Is so sufficiently severe, persistent, and pervasive that the action or threat limits or denies a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the College District’s educational program.
Examples
Bullying of a student may include hazing, threats, taunting, teasing, confinement, assault, demands for money, destruction of property, theft of valued possessions, name-calling, rumor spreading, or ostracism.
Retaliation
The College District prohibits retaliation by a student or College District employee against any person who in good faith makes a report of bullying, serves as a witness, or participates in an investigation.
Examples
Examples of retaliation may include threats, rumor spreading, ostracism, assault, destruction of property, unjustified punishments, or unwarranted grade reductions. Unlawful retaliation does not include petty slights or annoyances.
False Claim
A student who intentionally makes a false claim, offers false statements, or refuses to cooperate with a College District investigation regarding bullying or retaliation as defined by this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
Timely Reporting
Reports of bullying or retaliation shall be made as soon as possible after the alleged act or knowledge of the alleged act. A failure to immediately report may impair the College District’s ability to investigate and address the prohibited conduct.
Reporting Procedures
Student Report
To obtain assistance and intervention, any student who believes that he or she has experienced bullying or believes that another student has experienced bullying should immediately report the alleged acts to an instructor, counselor, administrator, or other College District employee.
Employee Report
Any College District employee who suspects or receives notice that a student or group of students has or may have experienced bullying or retaliation shall immediately notify the campus police or campus director.
Report Format
A report may be made orally or in writing. The campus police or campus director or designee shall reduce any oral reports to written form.
Prohibited Conduct
The campus police or campus director or designee shall determine whether the allegations in the report, if proven, would constitute prohibited conduct as defined by policy FFD, including harassment or discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or age. If so, the College District shall proceed under policy FFD instead. If the allegations could constitute both prohibited conduct and bullying, the investigation under FFD shall include a determination on each type of conduct.
Investigation of the Report
The campus police or campus director or designee shall conduct an appropriate investigation based on the allegations in the report. The campus police or campus director or designee shall promptly take interim action calculated to prevent bullying or retaliation, as defined by this policy, during the course of an investigation, if appropriate.
Concluding the Investigation
Absent extenuating circumstances, the investigation should be completed within ten College District business days from the date of the initial report alleging bullying or retaliation, as defined by this policy; however, the campus police or campus director or designee shall take additional time if necessary to complete a thorough investigation.
The campus police or campus director or designee shall prepare a final, written report of the investigation. The report shall include a determination of whether bullying or retaliation, as defined by this policy, occurred. A copy of the report shall be sent to the District Chancellor or designee.
College District Action
If the results of an investigation indicate that bullying or retaliation as defined by this policy occurred, the College District shall promptly respond by taking appropriate disciplinary or corrective action reasonably calculated to address the conduct.
Corrective Action
Examples of corrective action may include implementing a training program for the individuals involved in the complaint, implementing a comprehensive education program for the College District community, conducting follow-up inquiries to determine if any new incidents or any instances of retaliation have occurred, involving students in efforts to identify problems and improve the College District climate, increasing staff monitoring of areas where bullying or retaliation has occurred, and reaffirming the College District’s policy against bullying and retaliation.
Improper Conduct
If the investigation reveals improper conduct that did not rise to the level of bullying or retaliation as defined by this policy, the College District may take disciplinary or any other appropriate corrective action.
Confidentiality
To the greatest extent possible, the College District shall respect the privacy of the complainant, persons against whom a report is filed, and witnesses. Limited disclosures may be necessary in order to conduct a thorough investigation.
Appeal
A student who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal through FLD (LOCAL), beginning at the appropriate level.
Records Retention
Retention of records shall be in accordance with the College District’s records retention procedures. [See CIA]
Access to Policy
Information regarding this policy and accompanying procedures shall annually be made available to College District employees and students and shall be published on the College District’s website. Copies of the policy and procedures shall be readily available at the College District’s administrative offices.
Blinn Board Policy FFE (LOCAL)
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