General Policies

• Alcohol and Drugs
• Animals on Campus
• Bathroom and Locker Room usage
• Communication
• Complaints
• Crime Reporting Procedures
• Computer Network and Usage
• Sign and Posting Policy
• Public Health Expectations
• Smoke-free Campus
• Solicitation Policy
• Transgender Persons
• Weapons on Campus

Alcohol and Drug Policy

The Community College of Rhode Island seeks to encourage and sustain an academic environment that both respects individual freedom and promotes the health, safety and welfare of all members of its community. In keeping with these objectives, the college has established a policy governing the possession, sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages on the campus and conforming to the laws of Rhode Island.

Possession or consumption of alcohol is strictly controlled by the college. Rhode Island law states that no alcoholic beverages can be sold, delivered or in any way be given to a person under 21 years of age. Anyone under the age of 21 who knowingly makes false statements as to his or her age in order to purchase or in any way procure alcoholic beverages shall be subject to appropriate prosecution existing under state law.

Consistent with its educational mission, the college sponsors programs that promote awareness of the physical, psychological, social and behavioral effects of alcohol consumption. Assistance is available in finding community resources for those who are experiencing alcohol-related difficulties.

The use of narcotics or dangerous drugs on the college campus violates campus policy and Rhode Island state law. The law prohibits the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, sale, possession or use of any illegal drug. Educational programs and seminars that provide significant information and literature regarding the implications and consequences of drug use are available.

While use of medical marijuana with a legally obtained card from the Department of Health is legal in the state of Rhode Island, use of medical marijuana is prohibited in all buildings and on all premises by federal law.

Any student who violates institutional policy or law as it relates to the use of alcohol and drugs may be subject to disciplinary action taken by the college including suspension or expulsion.

CCRI does consider all factors when a community member is involved in a crime of violence and also in violation of the alcohol/drug policies. CCRI recognizes that students who have been drinking and/or using drugs (whether voluntarily or involuntarily) at the time of an incident of violence (such as domestic violence, dating violence, stalking or sexual assault) may be hesitant to report such incidents or participate in the process because of fear of potential consequences. CCRI strongly encourages students and employees to report such incidents to officials. A bystander acting in good faith or a reporting individual acting in good faith, or any party to the investigation and process, who discloses any incident of violence to CCRI officials or law enforcement will not be subject to disciplinary action for violations of the drug and alcohol policies. In certain circumstances CCRI may grant additional amnesty for violations.

Alcohol on Campus

Given the risks associated with the use of alcohol on campus and because of a variety of liability concerns associated with the use of alcohol, it has been determined that it is not prudent to permit the dispensing of alcohol on the college’s premises. Consequently, no employee of the college or anyone acting on the college’s behalf shall sell or give alcohol to anyone while utilizing the college’s facilities or while on the college’s premises.

Under exceptional circumstances, an exception to this policy may be made via a request of the Office of the Vice President for Business Affairs in writing and in advance.

Legal Sanctions for Alcohol and Other Drugs

Rhode Island penalties for driving while impaired are as follows:

1. Section 3-8-6 of the Rhode Island General Laws states that it is unlawful for a minor (under the age of 21) to purchase or attempt to purchase or to make a false statement or misrepresent his or her age through the presentation of a false document in connection with the attempted purchase of alcohol. The sanction is a minimum fine of $100 to $500 and the possibility of up to 30 hours of community service and suspension of his or her driver’s license for up to three months for a first offense.
2. Section 3-8-10 of the Rhode Island General Laws states that possession of alcohol by a minor is illegal. The fine ranges from $150 to $750 for a first offense. In addition, violators may be required to perform community service and shall be subject to a minimum 60-day suspension of their driver’s license, and upon a second offense or subsequent offense may be ordered to undergo substance abuse assessment.
3. In Rhode Island, driving while having a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent and above is a crime. Some of the Rhode Island penalties for driving while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating drugs include fines starting at $100, community service, license suspension and/or imprisonment.
4. In Rhode Island, persons at least 18 years old but less than 21 years of age driving with a blood alcohol concentration greater than .02 but less than .10 are considered to be driving while impaired. The sanctions for driving while impaired include a fine of up to $250, up to 30 hours of community restitution, suspension of driver’s license for a minimum of one month up to three months and attendance at an alcohol or drug treatment program.
5. Persons arrested for the sale of illegal drugs may be subject to being held in jail without bail until a hearing and are subject to forfeiting any money or vehicles associated with the sale of those illegal drugs.

Legal Sanctions for Illegal Drugs

Rhode Island statutes cover a wide range of drug offenses, including the use, possession, sale, distribution, transportation and manufacture of various types of drugs (Title 21, Chapter 28 of the Rhode Island General Laws). Among other provisions, the state law creates the following mandatory minimum prison sentences for first-time offenders who are not “drug dependent” persons. Actual sentences depend on the severity and the circumstances of the offense, and the character and background of the offender.

1. Imprisonment of not less than 10 years for possession of enumerated quantities of controlled substances: heroin, coca leaves, cocaine, ecgonine, phencyclidine (PCP) and Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), plus a
2. Possession of larger enumerated quantities results in a minimum prison sentence of not less than 20 years plus
3. Distribution of a controlled substance to persons under age 18 is penalized by imprisonment for not less than 15 years.
4. Education and counseling may be required.

Health Risks Associated with Use of Alcohol and Other Drugs

Many people are unaware of the potential physical and psychological consequences of their drug use. Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted. The vast majority of Americans who drink alcohol, for example, do so without any serious problems. However, it is important to remember that alcohol is a powerful drug – and like marijuana, cocaine or heroin, it can pose certain risks to your health and well-being. Alcohol abuse is responsible for an average 200,000 deaths annually in the United States. Half of all accidental deaths, suicides and homicides in the United States are estimated to be alcohol related. In addition, alcohol use is implicated in many cases of sexual assault.

a. Personal risk factors.* Frequently, people who drink abusively do not consider themselves to be problem drinkers. Certain factors pose an increased risk for developing a serious alcohol problem. These are:

1. Having one or more blood relatives with a history of alcohol or other drug problems.
2. Growing up in a family in which alcohol was associated with family dysfunction.
3. Drinking to get drunk.
4. Being able to “hold your liquor” – seeming to be less affected by alcohol than most people.
5. Excessive drinking at a young age and/or having a history of other drug abuse.
6. Having one or more memory “blackouts” caused by drinking.
7. Drinking to relieve bad feelings or to escape from problems.
8. Having friends who are heavy drinkers.
9. Having a history of impulsivity and/or behavioral problems, such as conduct disorder.
10. Using other drugs that, when combined with alcohol, increases the effects and dangers of drinking.

* Sources: Miller, William R., Alcohol and You. Prepared for Project MATCH by the Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions (CASAA). The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131. Also Marlatt, G.A., Baer, J.S.& Larimer, M.E. (1995). Preventing alcohol abuse in college students: A harm reduction approach. In G.M. Boyd, J. Howard, & R.A. Zucker (Eds.), Alcohol problems among adolescents: Current directions in prevention research (pp.147-172). Northvale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum & Associates Inc.

b. Birth defects. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is among the three leading causes of birth defects. FAS refers to a pattern of physical and mental defects that may occur in infants whose mothers drink during pregnancy.

c. Acute alcohol poisoning. Certain high-risk practices (e.g., drinking games, drinking grain alcohol punch) involve the quick ingestion of large amounts of alcohol that can shut down breathing and heart functioning. This can be fatal. Chronic alcohol abuse also has been linked to liver disease, gastrointestinal disorders, birth defects, depression, impotence and malnutrition. Alcohol and other drug use can impair judgment, reasoning, communication and perception. In addition, it may lead to risky sexual encounters such as unprotected sex and sexual assault. Alcohol may be a contributing factor in cases of acquaintance rape. Alcohol does not cause a person to commit sexual assault. Furthermore, drunkenness does not absolve a guilty party from the act of rape. Drunk or sober, sexual assault is a crime.

d. Signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning. If someone you know has any of the following symptoms after drinking alcohol, it is possible that he or she is suffering from acute alcohol poisoning. Do not leave the person alone. Do not let him or her “sleep it off.” Turn the person on his or her side to prevent choking should vomiting occur. Call 911 for immediate medical attention if you see any of the following:

• The person is unconscious or semi-conscious and cannot be roused.
• The person has cold, clammy, pale or bluish skin.
• The person’s breathing is slow or irregular.
• The person vomits while passed out and is not waking up after vomiting.

Animals on Campus Policy

Animals are allowed on college grounds outside college buildings that are open to the public; however, it is prohibited to bring animals into campus buildings, with the following exceptions.

1. Exceptions made by the president of the college, or their designee, to this policy for special circumstances and/or events including, but not limited to, reasonable accommodation for a disability, pet shows, or college events.
2. A dog acting as a service animal pursuant to federal and state statutes and regulations, including “personal assistance animals” under Rhode Island General Laws Section 40-9.1.
   1. Employees and students may bring a service animal into non-public areas in campus buildings if they have obtained an accommodation from the college:
      1. Employees must contact Human Resources for an accommodation.
      2. Students must contact Disability Student Services for an accommodation.
   2. Staff are not allowed to request any documentation for the dog, require that the dog demonstrate its task, or inquire about the nature of the person’s disability. In situations where it is not obvious that the dog is a service animal, staff may ask only two specific questions:
      1. Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
      2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform.
   3. Animals used by law enforcement or emergency personnel in the exercise of their official duties.
   4. Animals used for academic purposes.

The owner or other responsible person must ensure who brings an animal on to campus must ensure that the animal is leashed or caged. Owners are responsible for complying with state and local laws concerning animal possession/ownership, licensing, animal rights and owner responsibilities. Individuals responsible for an animal’s presence on campus shall be responsible for the immediate removal and sanitary disposal of any excrement deposited by the animal. They shall have the appropriate means on his/her person for removal of such excrement when bringing the animal on campus. Service animals must be current with immunizations and wear a rabies vaccination tag; annual documentation is required. The owner or personal responsible for an animal is responsible for paying for any damage caused by the animal.

No animal shall be left unattended in any motor vehicle parked on college property. Animals may not be disruptive or out of control, disturb college activities, be physically ill, neglected, or mistreated. In addition, animals that are allowed in college building pursuant to this policy may not be unreasonably dirty or distract others during academic or work related activities.

Any animal discovered in violation of these regulations may be impounded and turned over to the appropriate animal control authority. In addition, the owner or person responsible for the animal may be asked to remove the animal from campus.

Definitions

1. The term “caged” refers to the animal being restrained in an enclosed pen, box, or other similar container controlled by the owner or other responsible person who prevents the animal from escaping.
2. The term “direct physical control” refers to the owner or other responsible person physically holding the animal in such a way that it is not likely to escape.
3. The term “leashed” refers to the animal being restrained on a cord, chain, or other similar restraint, not to exceed six (6) feet in length, controlled by the owner of the animal or other responsible person.
4. The term “non-public areas in campus buildings” refers to spaces that are not open to the general public, including – but not limited to – classrooms, laboratories, warehouse space, facilities operations spaces, and offices.
5. The term “public areas in campus buildings” refers to a part of a place of public accommodation that is open to the general public.
6. The term “service animal” refers to a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.

Bathroom and Locker Room Usage Policy

All students, staff members, faculty members and guests should use the bathroom or locker room that corresponds to their gender identity or expression. Individuals are prohibited from using a public bathroom or locker room that does not correspond to their gender identity or expression.

In regards to privacy, all persons using a public bathroom or locker room are to be treated with dignity and respect. Anyone wishing more privacy may use any of the single-stall bathrooms that are marked on the campus maps or with the designated symbol. Anyone wishing more privacy in a locker room should contact a staff member in Athletics for access to a private changing area.

Harassment of those using the bathroom or locker room that corresponds to their gender identity or expression may constitute a violation of the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy and Procedures and should be reported to Campus Police, the Dean of Students Office ([email protected], or the Title IX Coordinator/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator ([email protected], 401-825-1004).

Communication Policy

The official method of communication from the Community College of Rhode Island to all students is email directed to the student’s CCRI email account. While other forms of communication will be used, students are expected to check their CCRI email account regularly and will be held accountable for information sent via this medium. Daily checking is strongly encouraged, as time-sensitive information is sent, especially prior to the beginning of each semester and regarding financial matters.

Complaints Against Employees

In incidents where students feel that college employees have acted inappropriately or unprofessionally, students have the right to file a complaint. In most cases, a conversation with the employee about the concerns is the quickest and simplest way to resolve a conflict. Complaint processes depend on who the subject of the complaint is and the nature of the complaint. Complaints regarding teaching style or methods or grading practices are generally not viable complaints as faculty members are free to develop their courses largely as they determine best within the confines of college policy and the law. Discussions on those matters are best referred to department chairs.

Discrimination, Disability or Harassment Complaints

Contact Sheila Wahl, Title IX Coordinator, and ADA/Section 504 Coordinator. Complaints will be handled per college and Council on Postsecondary Education policies.

Other Complaints

All other types of complaints should be submitted by completing an incident report form. The director of Human Resources, will acknowledge and review all complaints. Complaints will be addressed as appropriate in regards to the relevant college, state or federal policies and in compliance with any relevant bargaining unit contracts. Complaints may be referred to other departments as necessary. Anonymous complaints will not be accepted.

Reporting a Crime

Responsibility to Inform

It is a shared responsibility of every community member to report crimes on campus. What to do:

First, contact Campus Police. If it is an emergency, dial ext. 2000 from any campus. Otherwise, call:

• Warwick: 401-825-2109
• Lincoln: 401-333-7035
• Providence: 401-455-6050
• Newport: 401-851-1620

The individual answering the phone will request the information below. Any information is useful, so do not hesitate to call if you can assist Campus Police with a particular incident.

• A good description of the offender including height, weight, color of hair and eyes, and clothes.
• Vehicle information including make and model, color, license plate and direction of travel.
• Number of people involved.
• Date and time of incident.
• Details about the crime.

A Campus Police officer will interview you further to complete the investigation. Some crimes will require the presence and collaboration of the local law enforcement agency.

Please remember:

• Do not handle, touch or remove evidence.
• Remove yourself from the crime scene if it’s unsafe.
• Remain calm.

Any person who is a victim of a crime on campus may request the local law enforcement agency be notified of an incident. This does not mean that the other agency will respond to the scene of the incident.

Confidential Reporting Procedures

If you are the victim of a crime and do not want to pursue action within the college system or the criminal justice system, you may still want to consider making a confidential report. With your permission, the chief of Campus Police or his or her designee can file a report on the details of the incident without revealing your identity to the extent permitted by law and/or policy. However, for reports involving sexual misconduct, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed and the incident will be reported to the director of Institutional Equity. The purpose of a confidential report is to comply with your wish to keep the matter confidential while taking steps to ensure the future safety of yourself and others. With such information, the college can keep an accurate record of the number of incidents involving students, determine whether there is a pattern of crime with regard to a particular location, method or assailant, and alert the campus community to potential danger. However, the college’s attempt to investigate and act upon a confidential report are limited by the request for confidentiality. Reports filed in this manner are counted and reported in the annual crime statistics for the institution.

You may also file an anonymous report online. Please make sure that, if you wish to maintain anonymity, you not include any information that would reveal your identity. The online link is

https://ccri-advocate.symplicity.com/public_report.

Mandated Reporters and Exemptions

Clery Act

The Clery Act requires institutions of higher learning to identify individuals on their campuses who are mandated to report crime. Specifically, the act requires that the school designate individuals who have significant responsibility for student and campus activities but do not have significant counseling responsibilities to report crimes that are made known to them. Based on this criterion, the following CCRI officials are considered campus security authorities (CSA) who must report all crimes:

• All administrative officers of the college
• Chief and deputy chief of Campus Police and all Campus Police officers and patrol officers
• All deans, associate deans and assistant deans
• Director of Institutional Equity and Title IX coordinator
• Student Services directors and assistant directors
• Student Services advisers, coordinators and other professional staff
• All athletic coaches and trainers
• All student organization advisers

All CSAs are obligated to report all actual, suspected or alleged Clery violations that are reported to them, or of which they become aware, to Campus Police. These individuals must report to the appropriate college official even if the reporting party asks them not to do so.

All actual or alleged incidents of sexual misconduct should be reported to the Title IX coordinator at 401-825-1004, [email protected] or the dean of students at 401-825-2379, [email protected] . All employees are encouraged to report alleged sexual misconduct to these individuals.

For those who do not want the matter reported to college officials but who would like to discuss the incident or learn about options in a confidential setting, there are confidential resources available.

Confidential Resources

Pastoral and professional counselors providing counseling services as part of their duties are exempt from mandated reporting, except in instances where there is a threat or danger to others or self. These roles are defined as:

Pastoral counselor

An employee of an institution who is associated with a religious order or denomination recognized by that religious order or denomination as someone who provides confidential counseling and who is functioning within the scope of that recognition as a pastoral counselor by the institution.

Professional counselor

An employee of an institution whose official responsibilities include providing psychological counseling to members of the institution’s community and who is functioning within the scope of his or her license or certification. If you would like to discuss a matter confidentially with a member of the college’s counseling staff, please contact the:

Advising and Counseling Office at 401-825-1240

Computer Network and Usage Policy

General Principles

Access to computer systems and networks owned or operated by the Community College of Rhode Island comes with certain responsibilities and obligations and is granted subject to college policies and local, state and federal laws. Acceptable use is always ethical, reflects academic honesty and shows restraint in the consumption of shared resources. It demonstrates respect for intellectual property, ownership of data, system security mechanisms and individual rights to privacy.

Policy on Computer Crime

Any persons who directly or indirectly access any computer system for any fraudulent purpose or who alter, damage or destroy any computer or parts of its systems without authorization shall be charged with a felony according to the General Laws of the State of Rhode Island (Chapter 52 of Title 11).This crime also may result in suspension or expulsion from the college.

Theft of a computer or any parts of its systems is a felony. In addition to disciplinary action taken by the college, the individual will be subject to prosecution by the state of Rhode Island.

A. Responsible Use of Information Technology

The Community College of Rhode Island is an educational institution that encourages continuous learning, experimentation and the development of the complete person. The college is committed to respecting individual privacy and freedom while expecting each individual to act in a responsible, legal, ethical and efficient manner when using the college’s information technology systems. These systems are designed to encourage high-quality educational, professional, career development and self-discovery activities.

B. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to define responsible and ethical behavior that guides faculty, student and staff use of information technology resources at CCRI. Information technology includes but is not limited to desktop computers, workstations, network servers, mainframe computers, software, digital information, and voice, video and data networks. This policy is supplemented by all other college policies and by the policies of those networks to which CCRI is interconnected, including but not limited to Oshean. Applicable local, state and federal laws also apply to information technology users at CCRI.

C. Audience and Understanding

This policy applies to all students, faculty and staff of the Community College of Rhode Island and to all other users who are authorized to access information technology resources at CCRI. These users are responsible for reading, understanding and complying with this policy.

D. Policy

CCRI provides access to information technology resources for faculty, staff, students and certain other users to support our mission of access to learning and to conduct business. Every authorized user of information technology resources at CCRI is responsible for utilizing these resources in an efficient, ethical and legal manner and in ways consistent with overall college policy.

The following principles serve to guide the responsible use of information technology for all CCRI users.

Respect the rights of others by complying with all college policies regarding sexual, racial and other forms of harassment, and by preserving the privacy of other individuals. For example, you should not send harassing messages via email or transmit or reveal personal or private information about individuals unless you have authorization from those individuals.

Use computing facilities, accounts and data only when you have appropriate authorization and use them for approved purposes. For example, you should not use CCRI information technology resources to run a business or to access another individual’s computer account.

Respect all pertinent licenses, contractual agreements and copyrights. Use only legal versions of copyrighted software in compliance with vendor license requirements. For example, you should not post another individual’s copyrighted material on your webpage or install software with a single-user license on multiple computers.

Preserve the integrity of computing systems, electronic data and communications networks. For example, you should not modify settings on a desktop computer to make it unusable to others or excessively utilize networked resources, such as music videos, that overload CCRI’s network bandwidth.

Respect and adhere to all applicable local, state and federal laws. For example, you should not use CCRI’s information technology resources to attack computers on another network by launching viruses, worms or other forms of attack.

E. Privacy

Electronic resources, including but not limited to programs, files, data and email belonging to an information technology user at CCRI are private. CCRI reserves the right to have authorized college personnel examine computing resources, communication systems, files, electronic mail and printer listings. Reasons for examination include, but are not limited to, performing system maintenance, preventing or investigating unauthorized access and system misuse, assuring compliance with software copyright and distribution policies, and complying with legal and regulatory requests for information. Every effort will be made to ensure the privacy of a user’s files. However, if policy violations are discovered, they will be reported accordingly.

Guidelines

A. In making acceptable use of resources, students must:

1. Access only files and data that are their own, that are publicly available or to which they have authorized access.
2. Be sensitive to concerns of the taxpayers who support the college. Obscene sites are off limits; college resources may not be used to access them.
3. Use only legal versions of copyrighted software in compliance with vendor license requirements.
4. Be considerate in their use of shared resources. Students must refrain from monopolizing systems, overloading networks with excessive data or wasting computer time, disk space, printer paper, manuals or other resources.

B. In making acceptable use of resources, students must NOT:

1. Use another person’s system, ID card, password, files or data without permission.
2. Use computer programs to decode passwords or access controlled information.
3. Use any information technology resource to access or transmit the files or communications of other students, faculty or staff without authorization, or to provide information about, or lists of, students, faculty or staff to persons, groups or organizations outside the college without authorization.
4. Download or display obscene material.
5. Circumvent or subvert or attempt to circumvent or subvert system or network security measures.
6. Engage in any activity that might be harmful to systems or to any information stored thereon, such as creating or propagating viruses, disrupting services or damaging files.
7. Use college systems for commercial or partisan political purposes, such as using electronic mail to circulate advertising for products, for political candidates or for any profit-making company or enterprise.
8. Make or use illegal copies of copyrighted software, store such copies on college systems or transmit them over college networks.
9. Deploy an individual wireless network. Any unauthorized wireless access point connected to the campus will be considered a security risk and disabled.
10. Use the network for purposes that place a heavy load on scarce resources.
11. Waste computing resources, for example, by intentionally placing a program in an endless loop or by printing excessive amounts of paper.
12. Use the college’s systems or networks in a manner that subjects the college to civil or criminal liability.
13. Use the college’s systems or networks for personal gain such as selling a product or item without receiving authorization from the college.
14. Use the college’s systems or networks to transmit any material in violation of United States or Rhode Island laws or regulations.
15. Engage in any other activity that does not comply with the general principles presented above.
16. Engage in computer harassment. Computer harassment may be defined as:
    1. Intentionally using the computer to annoy, harass, terrify, intimidate, threaten, offend or bother another person by conveying obscene language, pictures or other materials or threats of bodily harm to the recipient or the recipient’s immediate family;
    2. Intentionally using the computer to contact another person repeatedly with the intent to annoy, harass or bother, whether any actual message is communicated, and/or where no purpose of legitimate communication exists and when the recipient has expressed a desire for the communication to cease;
    3. Intentionally using the computer to contact another person repeatedly regarding a matter for which one does not have a legal right to communicate, once the recipient has provided reasonable notice that he or she desires such communication to cease (such as debt collection);
    4. Intentionally using the computer to disrupt or damage the academic research, administrative work or related pursuits of another;
    5. Intentionally using the computer to invade the privacy, academic or otherwise, of another or to threaten to invade the privacy of another.

Enforcement

The Dean of Students Office will review alleged student violations of acceptable use policies as referred through the student disciplinary system and in accordance with the Student Conduct Code procedures. Users who breach this code of practice may, after due process, be refused access to the college’s computer and communications networks and may be subject to further disciplinary action. In an emergency, to prevent further possible unauthorized activity, the college may temporarily disconnect that user from the network. If this is deemed necessary by college staff, every effort will be made to inform the user prior to the disconnection and every effort will be made to re-establish the connection as soon as the college determines it is appropriate.

The college considers any violation of acceptable use of principles or guidelines to be a serious offense and reserves the right to copy and examine any files or information resident on college systems allegedly relating to unacceptable use. Offenders also may be prosecuted under all applicable local, state and federal laws.

Members of the CCRI community who believe they have been a victim of a violation of this policy or believe they have witnessed a student violation of this policy should file a complaint with the Dean of Students Office. Faculty members should report suspected violations to the vice president for Academic Affairs. Staff members should report suspected violations to their department head, who may report the problem to the director of Human Resources.

Reports of suspected unauthorized use or misuse of CCRI information technology resources will be investigated pursuant to standard college procedures.

Information technology users who are found in violation of this policy will be subject to CCRI disciplinary processes and procedures including, but not limited to, those outlined in this Student Handbook, the CCRI Employee Handbook and any applicable bargaining unit contracts. Privileges to use CCRI information technology resources may be revoked. Illegal acts also may subject users to prosecution by local, state and/or federal authorities.

Questions Relating to This Policy

The examples of unauthorized use of CCRI information technology resources given above are not meant to be exhaustive. Questions regarding this policy or the application of this policy to a specific situation should be referred to the director of Information Technology. Whenever you are in doubt regarding an issue of questionable use, it is in your best interest to resolve the issue before pursing any questionable use of information technology resources.

*This Computer Usage Policy has been adapted from Middlesex Community College

Sign Policy

Rationale

The Community College of Rhode Island’s sign policy establishes standards for all interior signs on all campuses. It provides guidance about the placement and location of directional signs, event signs, departmental signs and student signs as well as provisions for their approval and removal. This policy is designed to recognize the needs of the college’s distinct campuses while promoting an uncluttered and more attractive environment.

Scope

This policy applies to temporary signs and other displays on the Community College of Rhode Island campuses. For the most part, such signs will be event-related. It does not apply to college signs produced and installed by the college or college subcontractors and intended for display on a continuing basis, such as:

• Exterior building names
• Traffic signs
• Official college identity signs or banners
• Building directories or maps
• Room identifiers
• Classroom emergency procedure placards/signs
• No-smoking signs
• Out of order signs

Also, this policy does not apply to non-public areas of the campus, such as individual administration, faculty or student club offices, or to personal effects, such as clothing.

Statement of policy

1. Public areas. CCRI’s sign policy addresses temporary signs and displays within public areas inside campus buildings.
   1. Signs and displays may be posted only on designated bulletin boards, except where otherwise noted within this policy.
   2. The attachment of signs or similar displays to any interior space not specifically permitted for such use is prohibited. This will prevent damage to public property and unnecessary cleanup or replacement costs, and will help to prevent potential health and safety hazards. Signs or similar displays may not be attached to:
      • Glass/windows (except when required by law and/or with special permission for critical information, i.e., college closing; also see Section B.)
      • Walls (painted, concrete or otherwise)
      • Doors (except with special permission for critical information, i.e., college closing)
      • Stairways, stairwells, railings and steps
      • Columns or pillars
      • Stainless steel surfaces
      • Elevators (both inside and out)
      • Permanent campus signs
      • Furniture
      • Trash or recycling receptacles
      • Light fixtures
      • Ceilings
      • Floors
   3. The unauthorized painting or defacing of any interior college-maintained surface or structure is prohibited.
   4. Signs and similar displays shall not be installed so as to block the visibility of any existing sign or display. Posting over other materials is not allowed and may be subject to immediate removal.
   5. Signs and similar displays inside campus buildings shall not be larger than 11 inches by 17 inches.
   6. No sign or similar display shall be installed in such a way as to constitute a health or safety hazard or that is in violation of the fire safety code.
   7. One sign per event will be permitted per bulletin board. Multiple postings in one location are both wasteful and inconsiderate of other organizations and may be subject to immediate removal.
   8. The total allowable number of signs posted for any event is limited only by the total number of bulletin boards on a campus, except for the community bulletin board (See Section E.)
   9. All signs except student signs should adhere to the college’s graphic standards. Graphic standards specify the use of the correct college logo and fonts that help to create a unified family look. CCRI’s graphic standards are available on the college website at https://ccri.edu/marketing/graphicstandards.html for the college community to use.
   10. Signs, except student signs, that do not adhere to the college’s graphic standards may be subject to immediate removal.
2. Faculty and administration areas. Faculty and administration offices and department areas are exempt from some of the restrictions in Section A.
   1. Signs and displays may be posted on glass and doors in these private areas.
   2. Individual departments are responsible for bulletin boards in their department areas and ensuring the material posted on them conforms to the provisions of this sign policy.
3. Timing. Event and activity signs and displays that are posted in public areas must have a defined start and end date.
   1. It is the sole responsibility of the individual/organization/department posting the signs to remove them by the stated end date.
   2. Failure to remove signs by the removal date will result in a warning.
4. Outside organizations. Any outside organization wishing to post a sign or display in our campuses must receive a stamp of approval from the Dean of Students Office. Any signs posted without stamps will be removed. Outside organizations may seek to have commercial or public interest posting put up on college bulletin boards. Permission to do so shall be granted by the Dean of Students Office when the advertising is consistent with college goals or supported by a member of the college community with the following exceptions:
   1. In accordance with the college Alcohol Policy, no signs or displays posted may promote the sale or consumption of alcohol or drugs.
   2. No signs or displays may promote any organizations associated with adult entertainment if they contain obscene material and/or information that violates the college’s nondiscrimination policy.
5. Division of Workforce Partnerships. Because of the unique nature of CCRI Workforce and the courses and classes that it offers, measures have been considered to meet its needs.
   1. CCRI Workforce will be supplied its own, rolling bulletin boards for primary entrances/exits at each campus.
   2. CCRI Workforce will be solely responsible for its own posting and removal of signs and displays.
   3. CCRI Workforce will be responsible for taking out and putting away the rolling boards each day.
6. Student Government election signs. Because students have limited means to communicate with the general student body, certain exceptions will be made in regard to the general sign policy. During a period of three (3) weeks prior to Student Government elections, candidates are not limited by the number of signs they are allowed to post. Candidates may post signs in the following areas:
   • One per bulletin board
   • Columns or pillars
   • Stairways and stairwells
   • Stainless steel surfaces
   • Internal windows
   • Elevators (outside only)
   • All candidate signs must be removed within 48 hours of the close of the election. Failure to comply will be the responsibility of the candidate.
7. Directional signs. With events and programs comes the need to direct individuals to these events.
   1. Requests for directional signs should be made to Facilities at the campus where the event is taking place at least one week in advance of the event.
   2. Directional signs should be free standing, on easels or in sign holders. Bulletin boards also may be used.
   3. Directional signs should not be taped or attached to walls. The limitations listed in A.2 also apply to directional signs and
8. Prohibitions. Any postings that are obscene and/or have discriminatory information that violates the college’s nondiscrimination policies are not allowed and will be removed immediately. The approved posting areas will not be used as personal message boards; they are solely for information that is intended to benefit the campus community as a whole. For the sake of maintaining a sense of community and support for all members, organizations are expected to refrain from using racial, gender or ethnic slurs, stereotypical depiction or similar references in all advertising material.
9. Violations. Violations of this policy may result in referral to the dean of students for discipline.

Note. Because of unique circumstances, the following specific venues are exempt from the Sign Policy: the Library, the Bookstore, conference rooms and any teaching classrooms.

Public Health Expectations

During periods of public health emergencies as declared by the state of Rhode Island, all students are expected to comply with the directives of the Department of Health and the Governor’s Office. Since public health situations can change rapidly, students should expect that rules and regulations may change relatively quickly. Changes will be communicated as quickly as possible. Please monitor your CCRI email account for updates and notifications.

For the current year, the following rules will be enforced on all campuses until further notice:

• Presentation of valid proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
• The correct wearing of an approved and effective face mask to prevent the spread of micro-droplets in public.
• Maintaining a social distance as required.
• Keeping all gatherings, indoors or outdoors, to the approved maximum.
• In support of these efforts, students are expected to comply with posted notices regarding entrances and exits, flow of traffic, spacing in lines, elevator occupancy guidelines, and classroom instructions

Failure to comply with the above will be treated as a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, sections 9 and 11.

Students unable to wear a mask due to a disability or medical condition should contact Disability Services for appropriate classroom accommodations. Please note, the Americans with Disabilities Act does not authorize not wearing a mask during a public health crisis as a reasonable accommodation. Other accommodations will be made for those with a medical need.

Smoke-Free Campus Policy

The Community College of Rhode Island prohibits smoking in all of its campus facilities as well as at all points of access and egress from its facilities, including all connecting ramps and walkways such as those at the Knight Campus megastructure. Smoking is allowed at or beyond designated enclosures located at each campus or at a distance equal to those enclosures from the building. Smoking includes traditional tobacco products as well as “electronic cigarettes” and similar vaping devices. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action as stipulated by the Dean of Students Office for student infractions, and the appropriate disciplinary process as set forth in collective bargaining agreements or Council on Postsecondary Education policy for faculty and staff.

The prohibition within all facilities will not apply to the use of tobacco products as part of a preapproved, limited classroom demonstration or research project.

Solicitation Policy

Solicitation is defined as a planned, in-person sharing of information with and/or requesting of information from students, faculty, staff or guests in the buildings and on the grounds of the college, for the purpose of:

• distributing advertising or other materials;
• compiling data for surveys or programs (excluding such activity that is part of formal college academic or vocational courses);
• recruitment of members or support for an organization; and
• providing information sessions (excluding such activity that is part of formal college academic or vocational courses).

Designated areas. On-campus solicitation activities are permitted in the following areas (“Designated Areas”):

Handouts/Literature Distribution

For all Campuses

• All interior areas that are open to the public
• Outside areas of the campus that are open to the public

Literature and handouts may be distributed within rooms or areas reserved for meetings, programs and events by the individual or organization (or group) that has reserved the room or area.

Tables and Displays

Knight Campus

• The Great Hall
• The ground floor foyer
• The second floor foyer
• Outside areas of the campus that are open to the public

Flanagan Campus

• The cafeteria and entry foyers ‘A’ and ‘F’
• Outside areas of the campus that are open to the public

Liston and Newport County Campuses

• The Atrium
• Outside areas of the campus that are open to the public

Table and/or display reservations are required and are issued on a “first-come, first-served” basis. They should be requested from the college’s Facility Management Department. Approval of reservation requests are based upon and subject to the size of the area(s) requested, as well as any other scheduled use of the area(s) on the date and time requested. Student organizations requesting a table or display reservation must also follow all Student Engagement event planning rules.

Restrictions.

Handouts/Literature Distribution

Members of the college community and/or the public may distribute handouts or literature in designated areas provided that:

• The free flow of traffic (pedestrian and/or vehicular) at any point is not obstructed (handouts and literature may not be distributed in or on the roadways on campus).
• Handouts and literature are not forced upon others.
• Handouts and literature are not distributed in designated parking lots/areas and are not placed on vehicles parked on campus.
• Distribution of handouts and literature does not interrupt or interfere with individuals who are engaged in the daily conduct of college business (e.g. students and faculty in labs, classrooms, study areas, or libraries, college personnel while engaged in their employment, and individuals attending college functions or using college facilities).
• All individuals and/or organizations ensure that their handouts and literature does not litter the area where it is being distributed.
• Distribution of handouts and literature, and/or the tables or displays does/do not block or hinder access to elevators, stairways, fire exits, entrances, hallways or walkways in and to college buildings.
• Distribution of handouts and literature is prohibited in stairwells, restrooms, libraries, labs, classrooms (without prior approval from applicable faculty or instructors), faculty and staff offices, and other administrative and/or operational areas of the college.

Tables and Displays

Tables and displays are subject to the following:

• The free flow of traffic (pedestrian and/or vehicular) at any point is not obstructed (handouts and literature may not be distributed in or on the roadways on campus).
• Handouts and literature distributed from a table and/or display are not forced upon others.
• The use of a table and/or display does not interrupt or interfere with individuals who are engaged in the daily conduct of college business (e.g. students and faculty in labs, classrooms, study areas, or libraries, college personnel while engaged in their employment, and individuals attending college functions or using college facilities).
• All individuals and/or organizations ensure that their handouts and literature does not litter the area where their reserved table or display is located.
• The table and/or display does/do not block or hinder access to elevators, stairways, fire exits, entrances, hallways or walkways in and to college buildings.
• Tables and displays must be attended at all times by the individual or organization (or group) sponsoring the distribution and/or who requested the reservation.

Inclusion of Transgender Persons Policy

All persons whose gender identity or expression does not correspond with their assigned biological sex at birth are included in the college’s nondiscrimination policy. All students can expect a prompt and effective response to sex-based harassment including bullying and/or harassment based on a student’s actual or perceived gender identity or expression.

Transgender persons may use the public bathrooms or locker rooms consistent with their gender identity or expression. Transgender persons may participate in sex-segregated activities at the college in accordance with their gender identity or expression. Eligibility for participation in varsity athletic sports are regulated by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). For details regarding NJCAA eligibility rules, please contact the Athletics Department.

Transgender persons can expect privacy from the institution regarding their transgender status. Legal name and gender changes can be submitted at any Enrollment Services counter with the proper documentation. Additionally, any person may submit a request to Enrollment Services that his or her preferred name be used on CCRI ID cards and class rosters.

Definitions:

(Provided by the Gay Lesbian Straight Education Alliance and recommended by the Rhode Island Department of Education)

The terms below are designed to provide a basic understanding of words, phrases and ideas related to gender. It’s important to note that all language is constantly evolving; new terms are introduced, while others fade from use or change their meaning over time.

Gender: A set of cultural identities, expressions and roles – codified as feminine or masculine – that are assigned to people based upon the interpretation of their bodies and, more specifically, their sexual and reproductive anatomy. Since gender is a social construction, it is possible to reject or modify the gender one is assigned at birth and to develop, live and express a gender that feels truer and just to oneself.

Gender identity: A personal conception of oneself as male, female, both, neither and/or another gender. Gender identity can be the same as or different from the gender a person is assigned at birth. Gender identity is a matter of self-identification; no one can tell anyone else how to identify or what terms to use. Gender identity is different from sexual orientation, and everyone has both a gender identity and a sexual orientation.

Transgender: An umbrella term describing people whose gender identity does not match the gender they were assigned at birth.

Gender binary: A socially constructed system of viewing gender as consisting solely of two categories, “male” and “female,” in which no other possibilities for gender are believed to exist. The gender binary is a restrictive and inaccurate way to view gender because it does not take into account the diversity of gender identities and gender expressions among all people. The gender binary is oppressive to anyone that does not conform to dominant societal gender norms.

Gender expression: The multiple ways (e.g., behaviors, dress) in which a person may choose to communicate gender to oneself and/or to others.

Weapons on Campus Policy

The prohibition of deadly weapons on campus is a proactive step toward reducing the risk of injury or death due to the intentional, accidental or improper use of firearms and other weapons.

The Community College of Rhode Island has maintained a long-standing policy prohibiting weapons on any of its campuses. The introduction of guns, knives, or other devices on campus is potentially dangerous to the entire college community and inconsistent with a safe learning environment. Faculty, staff, and students are, therefore, advised that the introduction of any weapon is a direct violation of policy and a serious breach of security that will require immediate discipline, up to and including dismissal. Anyone aware of a potential violation of this policy should contact College Police immediately.

For the purposes of this policy, a deadly weapon is any device designed to produce death or serious bodily injury. Deadly weapons include, but are not limited to:

1. Firearms, whether loaded or unloaded
2. Pellet, flare, tranquilizer, stun, spear and dart guns
3. Knives with blades three inches or longer
4. Switchblades
5. Daggers
6. Striking instruments, including clubs, truncheons, blackjacks, metal knuckles and sap gloves
7. Martial arts weapons, including nunchuks, tonfas, staffs and throwing stars
8. Bow and arrow combinations
9. Explosive devices, including hand grenades, bombs, black powder, smokeless powder, percussion caps, friction primers and pyrotechnic fuses.
10. Electrical devices such as tasers
11. Other devices determined to be dangerous or deadly by the College Police

The definition of deadly weapons under this policy does not include devices such as commercially available aerosol dispensers of non-lethal chemical irritants, pocket knives, or general tools not designed as weapons.

This prohibition against deadly weapons applies equally to those carried by persons with a government-issued permit or license. The only exceptions to this policy are those listed below.

Procedures:

1. Individuals who possess deadly weapons in violation of this prohibition shall be directed and/or required to remove their weapons or themselves from CCRI premises, with all appropriate legal actions (including arrest) being taken upon failure to comply.
2. Employees who possess deadly weapons in violation of the prohibition stated in this policy and/or in related statutes are guilty of misconduct and subject to corrective action under CCRI's policies and procedure, up to and including termination of employment and all other appropriate legal actions.
3. Students who possess deadly weapons in violation of this prohibition are guilty of violations of the Code of Student Conduct and are subject to disciplinary action under that code, including expulsion from CCRI.

Persons who possess deadly weapons in violation of this policy will be required by the College Police Department to remove the weapons and/or themselves from college property.

Any college student, faculty or staff member who violates this policy shall be subject to action in accordance with college disciplinary policies and procedures for students, faculty and staff. Further, possession of a deadly weapon in violation of federal, state, or local laws will be referred to College Police or other appropriate law enforcement authorities and may result in legal sanctions.

This policy is applicable to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors on all CCRI owned or operated premises (including parking lots).

This policy does not apply to:

• Duly-appointed law enforcement personnel
• Members of the United States armed forces when acting in accordance with directed service (state of emergency).

It is recognized that there may be activities related to the educational mission of the college (e.g., physical fitness activities or theatrical productions) that may appear to violate the letter but not the intent of this policy. In such cases, the department or organization coordinating the activity is responsible for obtaining written approval from the Director of Safety & Security or his designee, in advance, to conduct the activity. Such approval may extend for up to one year at a time.