Section Six: Code of Integrity for Academic and Behavioral Standards

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Mission 

Carroll Community College is committed to fostering a learning environment where integrity, respect, and responsibility shape every interaction. Through our Code of Conduct, we uphold the highest academic and behavioral standards, promoting a culture of trust and fairness. Guided by the values of the Association for Student Conduct Administration (ASCA), our mission is to support students in making ethical choices, embracing accountability, learning through experience, and contributing positively to our campus and the broader community. 

Roles and Responsibilities  

Student Responsibilities  

The College defines a “Student” as any individual with an active academic relationship with the College, including applicants; admitted individuals; persons registered for credit or noncredit coursework; students on approved leave; and individuals between terms who maintain eligibility to enroll. Unless otherwise stated, “student” includes full‑time, part‑time, non‑degree/visiting, online/distance, and dual‑enrollment students regardless of age. 

Students should: 

• Strive to meet academic expectations 

• Arrive on time for classes and scheduled activities  

• Pay attention 

• Stay attentive and engaged in learning 

• Actively participate in both online and in-class discussions 

• Respect and listen to diverse perspectives 

• Come prepared for class and assignments 

• Contribute thoughtfully to the learning environment 

• Adhere to academic deadlines 

• Perform to the best of their ability 

• Uphold integrity by actively discouraging academic dishonesty and contributing to a culture of honesty and accountability within the college community. 

Faculty Responsibilities 

The College defines “Faculty” as an individuals appointed by the College with responsibility for instruction, curriculum, assessment, academic advising, supervision of academic work, or scholarly/creative activity, including full time, adjunct/part‑time, visiting, and affiliated or secondary appointments. Where applicable, other instructional staff are covered if specified. 

As members of the academic community, faculty are expected to model honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility. They provide clear expectations for students, uphold academic integrity, and maintain conduct that is consistent with the College’s Code of Integrity for Academic and Behavioral Standards. 

Faculty should: 

• Ensure the academic rigor of their courses 

• Ensure the content of their courses is consistent with the description of the courses in the College Catalog 

• Make all reasonable efforts to deter academic dishonesty 

• Report academic dishonesty and follow due process when it occurs 

• Provide clear expectations 

• Give full and honest feedback 

• Value and encourage student aspirations and goals 

Institutional Responsibilities 

The College defines “institution” as including leaders, faculty, and staff, who share responsibility for upholding policies and supporting student success. As members of the institution, leaders, faculty, and staff are expected to model honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility. 

The College as a legal entity, including all campuses, academic and administrative units, online operations, properties (owned, leased, or controlled), and controlled affiliates operating under its policies or authority. Policies also apply to programs, activities, and services carried out under the College’s auspices or sponsorship. 

The College should: 

• Uphold and foster the integrity of the learning environment 

• Act against those who violate the Code 

• Provide an environment conducive to learning 

• Treat all individuals on campus with respect and in a manner consistent with the Code 

• Ensure the procedures for due process are provided for students alleged to have violated the Code, and for students who believe they have not been treated fairly 

• Not tolerate or ignore misconduct or academic dishonesty 

Student Rights 

Students at Carroll Community College, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation have equal access to all services, programs, activities, and facilities of the College as determined by their student status (Credit or Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education). 

Students at Carroll are entitled to the following: 

• Protection of Freedom of Expression 

• Protection against Improper Academic Evaluation 

• Protection against Improper Disclosure 

Students at Carroll are entitled to the right to due process, which ensures the following: 

• Clear notice: Receive written notice of any allegations  

• Opportunity to be heard: Receive the opportunity to share perspectives, present evidence, and suggest witnesses 

• Access to information: Review all materials related to the alleged violation(s) 

• Support: Request an observer. The observer cannot speak on behalf of the student(s). 

• Impartial Decision-Making: A trained person(s) will review the facts and make decisions based on evidence, not assumptions. 

• Right to Appeal: In the case that a student(s) believes there was a process error, new evidence, or an unfair sanction, the student(s) may request an appeal. 

Criminal and Civil Laws 

The Code does not deal with violations of criminal or civil laws. Students who violate criminal or civil laws while on campus, while attending College-sponsored or supervised functions, or while representing the College, will be subject to prosecution and punishment by the civil authorities. In addition, a student who violates the Code may be subject to College disciplinary proceedings.  

To report violations of criminal or civil laws, please see the Criminal or Civil Law Violations.

Honor Pledge  

All credit students and Workforce, Business, and Community Education (WBCE) students, as deemed appropriate, must abide by the Code at Carroll Community College.  

The pledge reads:  

“I pledge on my personal honor to uphold and abide by the Code as long as I am enrolled at Carroll Community College.”  

An instructor may ask major academic work submitted by students to have an additional pledge that shall read:  

“I pledge that this work is entirely my own and I have neither given nor received any unauthorized help in its completion. In addition, I will adhere to campus policies and demonstrate behavior that does not disrupt the learning environment.”  

The instructor may authorize students to sign an abbreviated pledge for certain work that is submitted. This abbreviated pledge, which represents the complete pledge, shall read:  

“Academic Honesty Pledge.”  

Although students may refuse to sign a pledge, this refusal does not absolve students from abiding by the Code.  

The Integrity Council  

Carroll’s Integrity Council is a collaborative body dedicated to upholding academic and behavioral standards through a fair, educational, and inclusive process. The Council’s work is guided by the values of integrity, respect, and student development, ensuring that all participants are treated with dignity and that student voices are central to the conduct process. 

Final authority in disciplinary matters, however, is vested in the College administration and in the Board of Trustees.  

Students who are alleged to have violated the Code are invited to participate fully in the process, including the opportunity to appear before the Integrity Council, present their perspectives, and respond to all evidence. The process is designed to be educational, not punitive, and to focus on personal growth, ethical decision-making, and restoration of trust within the campus community.  

All proceedings are conducted with respect for privacy and due process; hearings are closed to the public, and formal legal rules of evidence do not apply. Reasonable flexibility in procedures ensures that student voices are heard and that technicalities do not undermine fairness. 

Integrity Council Membership  

The Integrity Council is intentionally diverse, reflecting the breadth of the campus community. Membership includes:  

• Two student representatives (in good academic standing, with at least twelve credits completed), recruited by the Office of Student Engagement, ensuring that student perspectives are integral to all deliberations. 

• At least four faculty members from different academic divisions. 

• One representative each from Library/Academic Services, Workforce/Business/Community Education, Student Affairs, Information Technology, and Disability Support Services. 

• The Director of Student Care & Integrity serves as an ex-officio member, providing continuity and expertise. 

• The Council elects a chair and co-chair from its membership annually.  

Integrity Council Chair and Co-Chair  

• A chair and co-chair are identified at the end of each academic year from the Integrity Council membership. Co-chairs may serve for one to two academic years.  

• It is the responsibility of one of the co-chairs to conduct the Integrity Council meetings.  

• Co-chairs attend hearings of the Integrity Council, but only one co-chair will preside over a hearing. The other co-chair will coordinate the supporting functions of the hearing process.  

• One co-chair will vote on a hearing decision, only in the case of a tie.  

Responsibilities of the Integrity Council  

• Participate in regular training on the Code of Integrity, student development, and equitable conduct practices. 

• Meet periodically to review and update policies and procedures, ensuring they remain student-centered and responsive to campus needs. 

• Revisions are discussed with the appropriate member(s) of the College’s Executive Team.  or designated personnel.  

• Proposed policy revisions are presented to the College Senate for endorsement before review by the Board of Trustees.  

• Actively disseminate information about the Code and the conduct process to the campus community, promoting transparency and understanding. 

• Regularly evaluate its practices by seeking feedback from students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders to enhance fairness and educational impact.  

• Provide periodic formal training and education through the learning management system to faculty and staff 

• Provide ongoing education and outreach to students through the learning management system and other platforms. 

• Receive and review reports of alleged violations, ensuring that all parties have the opportunity to share their perspectives.  

• Hear cases regarding alleged violation(s) of the Code. 

• Deliberate thoughtfully, considering all viewpoints and evidence, and make recommendations based on the merits of each case.  

• Recommend educational and restorative sanctions when appropriate, supporting student learning and community well-being.  

• Maintain structured confidentiality to protect the privacy and dignity of all participants. 

The Code Standards 

Student Involvement  

The Code places an emphasis on student involvement throughout the conduct process.  

Standards of Academic Honesty  

In accordance with our mission, the College defines academic honesty as using one’s own thoughts and materials in an ethical and responsible manner to uphold the integrity of the individual and the institution.  

Academic honesty includes the proper citation of sources of information. Students are expected to give full credit for the borrowed words and ideas of others according to the expectations of their instructor. Intentional or unintentional use of another’s works, or ideas without acknowledgment of the source (author) constitutes plagiarism.  

Likewise, a student found to have knowingly aided another student(s) in the commission of an act of academic dishonesty is considered equally responsible for violations of academic dishonesty.  

All credit courses are subject to the provisions of the Standards of Academic Honesty. In addition, these provisions are applicable to those Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education Courses for which Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education units (CEU’s) are awarded and require a final grade, or there is a demonstration of minimum skill accomplishment or attendance.  

Violations of Academic Honesty - Five categories  

Under the Code of Integrity for Academic and Behavioral Standards, there are five types of academic dishonesty: Cheating, Fabrication, Facilitation, Plagiarism, and Self-Plagiarism.  

Cheating  

Cheating: Intentionally using or attempting to use unauthorized material, information, or aids in any academic exercise.  

Examples:  

• Dishonestly obtaining, using, or possessing copies of an exam, or receiving information contained therein, even if it is from a different section of the same course.  

• Receiving any aid during the taking of an exam or quiz, such as looking at another student’s paper, using an unauthorized “cheat sheet”, or storing information in a calculator’s memory.  

• Allowing someone other than the student to take an exam. Submitting a research or term paper, or essay that was written by someone other than the student (including from a print service or an online/Internet provider).  

• Submitting the same work more than once for credit in a different course(s) without the instructor’s permission.  

• Submitting a lab report that is a copy of a report prepared by another student. Students must adhere to the guidelines stated by the instructor in performing laboratory experiments and written reports. Unless otherwise noted by the instructor, students may work together on laboratory exercises and written reports, as long as each member of the group contributes to and understands the work completed.  

• Submitting an assignment that is a copy of the work completed by someone other than the student. Unless stipulated otherwise by the instructor, students may work together on homework assignments provided that the work is not copied verbatim and that all students involved understand the work completed.  

• Not following the instructions or adhering to restrictions specified by the take-home exams and quizzes, such as obtaining unauthorized assistance.  

Fabrication  

Fabrication: Intentional and unauthorized falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise.  

Examples:  

• Altering actual data obtained in an experiment. The data recorded must be the actual data obtained while performing the exercise and cannot subsequently be changed, unless approved by the instructor.  

• Making up a source to use as a citation.  

• Generating, using, or citing quotations and / or sources created by Artificial Intelligence is strictly prohibited. 

• Resubmitting altered graded work for a grade reevaluation, unless the instructor is aware of the alterations.  

• Faking an illness to avoid an exam or test.  

• Willfully altering the laboratory work of another student and submitting it as one’s own work.  

• Paying a third party “contract cheating” organizations or individuals to complete coursework on your behalf.  

• Asking an unpaid individual or online service to complete an assignment for you.  

• Engaging in video chats, texts, or group messages (via Microsoft Teams, Zoom, FaceTime, Snapchat, GroupMe, Instagram, etc.) to complete coursework or collaborate and share answers.  

Facilitation  

Facilitation: Intentionally helping or attempting to help another student commit an act of academic dishonesty.  

Examples:  

• Giving another student one’s homework so that it can be copied.  

• Letting another student copy answers during an exam.  

• Completing an exam in the name of another student.  

• Giving exam information/answers to students in other sections of the same course, or to students who have not yet taken the exam.  

Plagiarism  

Plagiarism: Representing the words or ideas of another as one’s own in any academic exercise, whether intentionally or unintentionally.  

Examples:  

• “Three different acts are considered plagiarism:  

1. failing to cite quotations and borrowed ideas,  

2. failing to enclose borrowed language in quotation marks, and  

3. failing to put summaries and paraphrases in your own words.”  

From The Pocket Style Manua: APA Version (6th edition) (Hacker & Sommer, 2013, p.29) 

• Merely rearranging words, substituting only a synonym, or closely following an author’s sentence pattern would be considered plagiarism.  

• Submitting another’s project, written or otherwise, and passing it off as one’s own.  

Self-Plagiarism  

Self-Plagiarism: Reusing portions of one’s own work in other courses without an instructor’s prior permission or informing each instructor if the work is being submitted for multiple courses during the same time.  

The American Psychological Association (2022) explains how plagiarism differs from self-plagiarism: “Whereas plagiarism refers to the practice of claiming credit for the words, ideas, and concepts of others, self-plagiarism refers to the practice of presenting one’s own previously published work as though it were new” (pg. 170).  

As Roig (2006) suggests, self-plagiarism occurs “when authors reuse their own previously written work or data in a ‘new’ written product without letting the reader know that this material has appeared elsewhere” (pg. 16).  

Examples: 

• If a student is repeating a course, they should let the instructor know. Students cannot simply resubmit graded work a second time.  

• If assignments between different classes seem alike, talk with the instructors of those courses to make sure you can use the same information for both classes.  

Information about Suspicious Behavior  

Innocent behavior can sometimes appear suspicious and can attract unintended attention from an instructor. A student should take precautions to avoid the mere appearance of academic dishonesty while taking an exam or quiz.  

Examples:  

• A student should not fidget during the exam and should keep their eyes fixed on their own work and not look around toward other students.  

• A student should not talk to other students during an exam or quiz.  

• A student should not wear a hat or sunglasses during the exam and should not rearrange clothing while taking an exam.  

• A student should not take unauthorized study notes, textbooks, electronic devices, and calculators to the test site; any personal belongings should be kept clearly out of sight.  

• A student should not reach into their personal belongings without first asking for permission from the instructor.  

• A student should avoid asking to use the bathroom during the exam; but, if necessary, the exam should be given to the instructor before leaving the room.  

Standards of Student Conduct  

• Carroll Community College has a responsibility to clarify standards of behavior, which are considered essential to its function as an education institution.  

• Students are expected to obey the law, show respect for properly constituted authority, perform contractual obligations, and observe a standard of conduct appropriate for the College.  

• A student who violates criminal or civil laws while on campus, attending a College-sponsored or supervised function or representing the College will be subject to prosecution and punishment by the civil authorities.  

• In addition, the student may be subject to disciplinary proceedings by the College.  

• NOTE: The College reserves the right to take immediate action should the presence of the student on campus be considered a serious threat to the operation of the College or to the welfare of the College community.  

• Student groups and organizations may be charged with conduct violations.  

• A student group or organization and its officers may be held collectively and individually responsible when violations by those associated with the group or organization have received the consent or encouragement of the group leaders or officers to violate the Standards of Student Conduct.  

• The officers or leaders or any identifiable spokesperson for a student group or organization may be directed by the Dean of Students or Director of Student Care and Integrity to take appropriate action to prevent or end conduct violations by the group or organization.  

• Failure to make reasonable efforts to comply with the Dean of Students or Director of Student Care and Integrity’s directive shall be considered a violation of the Standards of Student Conduct.  

• Persons not enrolled officially in the College, who by their actions on campus violate their status as invited guests, are subject to the relevant sanctions of the Criminal Law Article of the Maryland Code.  

• Although it is the intent of the College to leave disciplinary action with respect to off-campus offenses of students to civil authorities, if an off-campus offense poses a serious threat to the College community, the College reserves the right to take appropriate action.  

• While on campus, prospective students shall adhere to the same standard of conduct as current students or be denied admission to the College.  

• Disciplinary action will be taken when any student or group of students:  

• Fails to observe the general standards of conduct or any specific policy, rule, regulation, or College procedure adopted by the College.  

• Acts in a manner not in the best interest of the College community.  

• The following shall constitute unacceptable behavior on campus, off campus at College leased or owned facilities, while attending College sponsored activities or any activities which are initiated, authorized, or supervised by Carroll Community College, or while representing the College, and subject offenders to disciplinary action:  

• Disruptive Behavior 

• Disrupting, obstructing, or interfering with College or College-sponsored activities, including, but not limited to teaching, research, study, administration, cultural events, fire, police or emergency services or other College functions, including but not limited to excessive demand on personnel and/or College resources in comparison to what is typically allocated to other students in similar situations. 

• Conducting or expressing oneself in a manner which is disorderly, lewd, or obscene.  

• Intentionally and substantially interfering with the freedom of expression of others on College grounds or at College sponsored activities.  

• Improper behavior that offends, demeans, injures, or interferes with the ability of another individual to enjoy the right to fully participate in the life of the College.  

• Consequences  

• An instructor or Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education Director acting on behalf of an instructor, has the right to dismiss a student from a class session for behavior that is disruptive to the teaching and learning process.  

• This instructor or Director must refer the incident to the Dean of Students or Director of Student Care and Integrity within twenty-four hours and complete the document “Reporting a Violation of the Standards of Student Conduct” for appropriate and prompt action by the Dean of Students or Director of Student Care and Integrity.  

• A copy of the report will be given to the student by the Dean of Students or Director of Student Care and Integrity.  

• A dismissed student will not be allowed to return to class until the conflict is resolved by the Dean of Students, or Director of Student Care when applicable, and/or the instructor involved.  

• The Dean of Students or Director of Student Care and Integrity’s action will adhere to the procedures and protection contained in the American Association of University Professors Joint Statement (American Association of University Professors, Policy Documents and Reports, 10th ed., 206, on-line at AAUP.org.

• It should be noted that several provisions of the Code of Maryland, Education Article, may also be applicable to a resolution of the situation, and might be invoked independently of any campus procedures.  

• NOTE: The above-cited procedures for classroom dismissal will take precedence over the procedures cited for other conduct violations.  

• Falsification of Information  

• Furnishing false information to the College or to members of the College community who are acting in the exercise of their official duties.  

• Forging, unauthorized altering, falsifying or unauthorized use of any College documents, records, keys, or instruments of identification.  

• Failure to Comply  

• Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of authorized College officials, including campus security personnel, such as refusing to furnish identification or failure to leave College buildings or grounds after being requested to do so by an authorized employee of the College.  

• Knowingly violating the terms of any disciplinary sanction imposed in accordance with the Code.  

• Committing an act of academic dishonesty (previously described).  

• Gambling  

• Engaging in unauthorized activities and games of chance for money or other stakes.  

• Abuse of Facilities and Equipment  

• Entering or using College property without authorization.  

• Stealing or attempting to commit theft of College property, services, personal property of a member of the College community or campus visitor, or knowingly possessing such stolen property.  

• Using College facilities and/or equipment (including, but not limited to, the telephone system, mail system and computer system) without authorization, in a fraudulent manner, or for any illegal act.  

• Littering, damaging, defacing, or destroying College property or property under its jurisdiction or the property of a member of the College community or campus visitor  

• Violating fire or safety regulations, including the misuse or damage of fire safety equipment.  

• Using sound amplification equipment, system, or device, except as provided by College regulations.  

• Committing theft or abuse of computer time, including, but not limited to the following:  

• Unauthorized entry into a file to use, read, copy, change or destroy the contents, or for any other purpose 

• Unauthorized transfer of a file  

• use of computing facilities to send obscene or abusive messages  

• use of the computing facilities to interfere with the normal operation of the College computing system.  

• Abuse of Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco  

• Using, possessing, manufacturing, selling, or distributing illegal or controlled drugs or substances, including but not limited to alcohol, cannabis, or prescription medication.  

• Attending any College sponsored activity while under the observable impairment or influence of alcohol or any controlled or intoxicating substance, including inhalants.  

• Smoking and/or the use of any tobacco products on campus. (For more information, refer to the Smoking and Tobacco Use Policy.)  

• Assault and Harassment  

• Possessing and/or using of any “weapon” (i.e. object or substance designed to inflict a wound, cause injury, or incapacitate, including, but not limited to, all firearms, explosives, pellet guns, slingshots, martial arts devices, brass knuckles, knives, daggers, switchblades and chemicals). A harmless instrument designed to look like a firearm, explosive or weapon that is used by a person to cause reasonable apprehension of harm or to assault another person is expressly included within the meaning of weapon.  

• Intentionally or recklessly threatening and/or causing physical harm to any person on College grounds or at College sponsored activities, or intentionally or recklessly causing reasonable apprehension of such harm.  

• Engaging in any form of forcible or non-forcible sexual offense. (See College website for full College Policy for Title IX)  

• Molesting, assaulting, physically and/or psychologically abusing, threatening, or harassing of any member of the College community or visitor to the College, or threatening or endangering the health or safety of any such person.  

• Unwelcome conduct, whether verbal, nonverbal, physical, or electronic, that is sufficiently severe, pervasive, and/or persistent to create an intimidating, hostile, or abusive educational environment, and that adversely affects an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from university programs or activities. 

Reporting Code Violations  

To support a fair and respectful community, concerns about potential Code violations should be reported promptly and through the appropriate procedures.  Timely reporting helps ensure that students receive accurate information, have the opportunity to respond, and that matters are resolved efficiently. 

Students alleged to have violated the Code are afforded due process, which includes the right to be informed of the concern, to share their perspective, and to appeal decisions, as outlined in the College’s disciplinary procedures. 

Students are expected to fully participate in and complete the conduct process. Withdrawing from the College or dropping courses before the formal process begins does not exempt a student from review or potential action, which will be determined by the Dean of Student Affairs or the Director of Student Care and Integrity. 

If a violation occurs near the end of a term, an “Incomplete” grade may be assigned until the matter is resolved. Students who choose not to participate in the process may still be held accountable and receive appropriate outcomes.  

Faculty and Staff Reporting Violations of Academic Honesty  

Faculty and staff are responsible for maintaining the academic integrity of the College community. These steps outline the response of a suspected violation.  

1. Identify and document the concern.  

a. Review the student’s work carefully.  

b. Collect relevant materials (e.g., assignment, source comparisons, emails)  

c. Note specific concerns (e.g., plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, falsified data).  

2. Initiate the Academic Integrity Violation Report process.   

a. Consult the Director of Student Care and Integrity to determine if it’s the student’s first, second, or third violation.  

I. First and second violations: Faculty will conduct a review of the violation.  

II.Third violations are referred to the Integrity Council.  

Review of Violation  

If it is the students’ first or second violation, the faculty or staff member should schedule and conduct a meeting to review the allegations with the students to determine if a violation was committed.   

• Document the Meeting: Take notes during the meeting to accurately summarize the discussion in the Conference Summary Form.  

• Explain Disciplinary Records: Inform the student about the maintenance and voiding of disciplinary files as per college regulations. The file of a student found responsible of any charge(s) will be retained as an active disciplinary record for five (5) years from the date of the letter providing notice of final disciplinary action (Refer to the Disciplinary Files and Records section under Section Six: Code of Integrity for Academic and Behavioral Standards).  

• Outline the Outcome: Explain the educative action and any sanctions in the Conference Summary Form (e.g., grade reduction). Ask if the student has any questions before proceeding.  

• Obtain Student Response: The student should agree or disagree with the outcome while in the meeting. Please ensure that the student checks their email and selects agree or disagree before concluding the meeting.  

Student Accepts Responsibility for First or Second Violation:  

• Faculty provides the student with a copy and submits the form to the Director of Student Care and Integrity.  

• The Director of Student Care and Integrity will confirm sanctions and notify the student in writing.  

• The student may appeal the sanction to the faculty or staff member’s immediate supervisor.  

•  Students may appeal sanctions based on the parameters defined in the Appeal Process section. 

Student Disputes Responsibility for First or Second Violation:  

• Faculty forwards the form to the faculty member’s Department Chair or immediate supervisor of the staff member. 

• Students must submit a written rebuttal within 5 working days.  

• Students may appeal a sanction by submitting a written request to the Department Chair or immediate supervisor. Appeals must meet specific criteria to be considered. If the request does not meet the requirements, it will not move forward. Students will be notified within five business days regarding next steps.  

Appeal Process

Purpose 
The appeal process provides students with a fair and equitable opportunity to request a review of a conduct decision, academic or behavioral, under specific circumstances. Appeals are limited to one level and must be based on one or more of the following grounds: 

Students may appeal sanctions based on the following parameters:  

• New Evidence: This refers to significant new information that was not available before or during the original process, despite reasonable efforts to find it.  

• If new evidence is claimed, the appropriate administrative professional will determine whether the evidence was previously unavailable. 

• The evidence is significant enough that it could have changed the original decision.  

• If the administrator determines that the new evidence meets these criteria, the case may be reviewed again in accordance with the appeal process. 

What is not considered New Evidence:  

• Information that was in the student’s possession during the original process but was not submitted 

• Information that repeats, reframes, or re‑argues points already considered in the disposition or hearing 

• Substantial Procedural Error: A Substantial Procedural Error occurs when a significant failure to follow College procedures or a serious misapplication of College policy results in an unfair student conduct process. 

• A procedural error is considered substantial only when it denied the student proper notice or a fair opportunity to be heard, or otherwise materially affected the fairness or outcome of the decision. The error must be more than technical or minor in nature and must have had a meaningful impact on the conduct process. 

• Minor or harmless deviations from procedure do not constitute a Substantial Procedural Error. 

What is not considered Substantial Procedural Error: 

• Minor delays, administrative issues, or stylistic variations 

• Reasonable deviations from procedure that did not deny notice or a fair opportunity to be heard 

• Disagreement with the outcome of the case or dissatisfaction with the decision 

• Claims that the decision‑maker should have weighed information differently 

• Appeals based on Substantial Procedural Error are not intended to rehear the case, but are limited to reviewing whether a serious procedural mistake occurred that compromised the fairness of the process. 

• and/or Disproportionate Sanction: This occurs when the sanction imposed is much harsher than what would be reasonable for the violation for which the student was found responsible. 

• Sanctions are expected to align with the severity of the violation and support the educational goals of the conduct process. 

• A disproportionate sanction may result from serious errors in how sanctions are interpreted or applied after a finding of responsibility, leading to an outcome that is clearly unfair or unjust. 

• An appeal on this basis must demonstrate that the sanction is significantly out of proportion to the conduct. 

• Appeals based on Disproportionate Sanction focus only on the appropriateness of the sanction, not on whether the finding of responsibility was correct. 

What is not a Disproportionate Sanction: 

• Sanctions that reasonably consider the frequency, severity, or pattern of violations 

• Sanctions that fall within established College guidelines 

• Dissatisfaction with sanctions after responsibility has been determined, when the sanctions do not affect fairness 

• Disagreement with a sanction alone does not constitute grounds for appeal. 

Eligibility and Submission 

• Appeals must be submitted in writing within five (5) business days of receiving the original decision. 

• The appeal must clearly state the specific ground(s) and include supporting documentation. 

Review Authority 

• If a student disputes a violation determined by faculty or staff, the immediate supervisor (or designated official) will review the case. 

• The reviewer will:  

• Examine the original documentation and decision. 

• Consider the appeal statement and any new evidence. 

• Ensure procedural fairness and consistency with institutional policy. 

Possible Outcomes 

• Violation Dismissed: 

• If the appeal is upheld, the violation is voided. 

• The case is closed and returned to the Director of Student Care and Integrity for record adjustment. 

• Violation Confirmed: 

• If the appeal is denied, the supervisor or designee issues a final decision. 

• The Director of Student Care and Integrity enforces sanctions and notifies the student in writing. The decision is final. 

Reporting Violations of the Standards of Student Behavior  

Reporting a Violation  

Any member of the College community may report an alleged student conduct violation.  

To report a student behavior violation, initiate the Student Behavior Violation process via the Student Conduct Incident Report Form. 

The Director of Student Care and Integrity or designee will promptly investigate the incident.  

Criminal or Civil Law Violations  

Report alleged violations of criminal or civil law immediately to the Office of the Campus Police. 

Initial Reporting 

Every member of the College community is responsible for upholding the Student Code of Conduct. If you suspect a violation, follow these steps: 

1. Identify and Document the Concern 

• Describe what you observed in clear, factual terms. 

• Avoid opinions or assumptions, and focus only on what happened. 

2. Review the Student Code of Conduct 

• Check which specific standards may apply. 

• Make sure your report includes:  

• Observable behaviors described using objective language 

• Relevant contextual details (e.g., time, location, circumstances) 

• Any corroborating information that supports your concern (e.g., witness statements, audio and/or video recordings, photos and/or images) 

3. Provide Relevant Evidence 

• Attach supporting materials such as emails, screenshots, or other documentation that verify the concern. 

Review of Violation  

A review of the violation will be conducted by the Dean of Student Affairs or Director of Student Care and Integrity.  

• Responsible for identifying specific charge(s) against the student(s).  

• May dismiss the allegation(s) as unfounded or irrelevant.  

• May request a conference with the student within five (5) working days of receiving notice.  

• After the conference, may dismiss the allegation or proceed with disciplinary action.  

If Student Fails to Respond  

• Dean of Student Affairs or Director of Student Care and Integrity may impose any of the sanctions outlined in the policy.  

If Sufficient Cause is Found  

• Dean of Student Affairs or Director of Student Care and Integrity proceeds with disciplinary action.  

• Students are informed of the choice between administrative disposition or a hearing before the Integrity Council.  

Administrative Disposition 

If student consents, they sign a statement acknowledging:  

• Understanding of the violation(s)  

• Waiver of hearing before the Integrity Council  

• Acceptance of sanction(s)  

• Waiver of right to appeal  

• Hearing before Integrity Council  

If the student refuses the administrative disposition, they are scheduled to appear before the Integrity Council.  

The Integrity Council determines if the student was found responsible for the alleged violations and, if found responsible, recommends sanction(s) for the student(s).  

Appeal Process 

Student may appeal the sanction(s) rendered by the administrative disposition to the Dean of Student Affairs or Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education or designee.  

Students may appeal sanctions based on the following parameters, as explained in the section Appeal Process :  

• New Evidence: Relevant information not available at the time of the original decision that could reasonably affect the outcome. 

• Substantial Procedural Error: A significant deviation from established procedures that may have impacted the outcome. 

• Disproportionate Sanction: The sanction imposed is substantially inconsistent with the nature of the violation or established guidelines. 

The Dean of Students or the Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education or designee reviews and overrules the recommended sanction(s).  

Appeals may be denied if the Dean of Students or the Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education or designee determines the request lacks sufficient grounds.  

The decision of the Dean of Students or Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education or designee is final.  

Correspondence and Timelines  

All written correspondence will be sent by email. Response timelines are based on the date the student receives the letter.  

Integrity Council Hearing Process 

When a student is alleged to have violated the Code of Conduct, they may request a formal hearing before the Integrity Council, a body committed to upholding the values of fairness, accountability, and educational development. 

Notification and Scheduling 

The Director of Student Care and Integrity will notify the student(s) of the hearing details, including the date, time, and location.  

Official communication regarding conduct matters will be sent to the student’s institutional email address. In certain circumstances, such as when electronic delivery is not feasible, communication may also be sent via postal mail to the address on file. 

The hearing will be scheduled within five (5) to fifteen (15) working days following the student’s decision to proceed with an Integrity Council hearing. 

During winter and summer terms, adjustments to the timeline may be necessary to ensure adequate student representation on the Council. In all cases, reasonable efforts will be made to contact and inform the student(s). 

Pre-Hearing Information and Support 

The Director will ensure the student receives: 

• A written statement outlining the alleged violation(s). 

• A list of potential witnesses and a summary of their expected testimony, unless disclosure poses a risk to the witnesses’ safety or well-being. 

• Information regarding their right to appear alone or with an Advocate. 

• Guidelines for Advocates 

• The student may be accompanied by a College Advocate, who may be a Carroll faculty or staff member, or another Carroll student. 

• The Advocate’s role is consultative only; they may not speak on behalf of the student(s) during the hearing or question witnesses. 

• In cases involving interim suspension, accommodations will be made to support the student’s participation. 

Legal Representation 

Legal counsel is not permitted during the Integrity Council hearings unless the student(s) is facing concurrent criminal charges, and/or the institution is proceeding with its own legal representation. 

In such cases, the legal advisor’s role remains consultative, and they may not address the Council or question witnesses. 

Student Rights in the Integrity Council Hearing 

As a student participating in an Integrity Council hearing, the student(s) have the following rights: 

• Access to Evidence 

• Review any evidence or exhibits the College plans to present before the hearing. 

• Submit written evidence or exhibits in advance for the Council’s review 

• Presenting a Case 

• Speak on your own behalf 

• Present evidence and witnesses relevant to the alleged violation(s) 

• You must notify the Council of your witnesses at least one day before the hearing. 

• Question Witnesses 

• Hear and question witnesses who testify against you. 

• The College may exclude witnesses if their participation poses a safety risk. 

• Appeal Process 

• Appeal the sanction(s) recommended by the Integrity Council-not the decision-to the Vice President or designee. 

For more details, refer to the section titled Reporting Violations. 

Hearing Quorum 

For a hearing to proceed, the Integrity Council Chair ensures a minimum quorum of seven (7) members. This quorum must include two student and five other Integrity Council representatives. 

When notified to convene for a hearing, the Chair must be informed if the student(s) respondent is a credit or Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education student(s). If so, the quorum must include at least one faculty or staff member from the credit or Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education programs. 

If a quorum member is unavailable, the Integrity Council Chair will appoint an alternate member from the College community to maintain the quorum and proceed with the hearing. 

Hearing Impartiality 

To ensure a fair process: 

• Council members may step aside from a hearing if they feel they cannot remain impartial.  

• The student or any party involved may request that a Council member be removed due to personal bias. 

• The Chairperson will lead a secret vote among the remaining Council members. 

• A Council member will be removed from the quorum if a simple majority agrees. 

• The Chairperson ensures that the hearing runs smoothly and may remove anyone who is disruptive. 

• If the student(s) does not attend the hearing, the hearing may still proceed as long as the student(s) was given the proper notice of the date, time, and location of the hearing. 

• All meetings of the Integrity Council will be recorded and transcribed. The recording and transcription of the hearing will be kept as part of the student(s)’ record. 

• It is the responsibility and duty of the Integrity Council panel members to remain impartial and to keep confidentiality throughout the hearing process, including during and after the hearing has concluded. 

Pre-Hearing Process 

The Pre-hearing process is not recorded nor transcribed. 

Prior to Pre-hearing Conference 

• The Chairperson will determine the length of time necessary for the pre-hearing process.  

• By default, the pre-hearing process will be scheduled to take place one hour prior to the scheduled start time of the hearing. 

• In the case that the Chairperson presiding during the hearing determines more time is needed for the pre-hearing process, the Chairperson must submit a written request for additional time to the Director of Student Care and Integrity or designee. 

• The Chairperson will reserve the College’s Board Room in the Lower Level of the Library (Penguin Random House Learning Resources Center) according to the agreed upon date and time. 

• The Director of Student Care and Integrity, the Chairperson, or designee will prepare appropriate signage for the location of the hearing, including but not limited to name plates and designation area for witnesses, if any. 

• The Chairperson presiding during the hearing will provide each Integrity Council member with: 

• A copy of Section Six: The Code of Integrity for Academic and Behavioral Standards from the current year’s College Regulations; 

• A printable template for written notes to utilize during the pre-hearing and hearing processes. 

• Integrity Council panel members may take notes by hand or by College-issued device. 

• Integrity Council panel members must use the template provided by the Chairperson. 

• All notes must be collected by the Chairperson following the conclusion of the hearing. 

• Those notes will remain part of the record of the hearing. 

Pre-hearing Conference 

Following the formalization of the list of Integrity Council panel members, the Chairperson will introduce the briefing file that includes: 

• The name(s) of the student respondent(s); 

• The nature of the violation(s) and charge(s); 

• The date(s) and location(s) of the incident(s); 

• And the written evidence and/or exhibit(s) to be introduced by the College and the student respondent(s), if any 

Hearing Process 

The Chairperson presiding during the hearing will convene the hearing at the scheduled start time and begin the audio recording with the consent of all parties. 

All questions, answers, comments, etc., during the hearing must be verbal and audible for the purposes of transcription. 

Order of Presentation 

1. Opening statements of complainant, followed by student respondent(s), if desired by each 

2. Presentation of evidence by complainant, then student respondent(s) 

a. Witnesses: 

i. A list of witnesses is to be submitted to the Chairperson prior to the hearing. 

ii.The student will have the opportunity to review in advance any evidence, including oral testimony of witnesses, who will be introduced at the hearing. 

iii.Witnesses will be excluded from the hearing room and brought in individually before the Council. 

iv.Any party may request the privilege of presenting witnesses with knowledge of and/or directly witnessed the incident(s) during which the violation(s) occurred. 

v.Any party may request the privilege of presenting witnesses subject to the right of cross-questioning by other parties, including Integrity Council panel members. 

b. Evidence 

i.Evidence may include: 

Oral testimony from witnesses 

Tangible or objective materials such as documents, recordings, or other relevant items 

ii.This standard is consistent with the ASCA guidelines and supports a fair, educational approach to student accountability. 

3. Closing statements by complainant, followed by student respondent(s) 

a. At the close of all testimony and after admission of all evidence, each side will be allowed a closing statement.

b. The Chairperson will then dismiss the complainant, followed by the student respondent(s) from the hearing room. 

4. Private deliberation by the Integrity Council panel members 

Recesses 

The Chairperson reserves the right to call a recess(es) during the hearing when deemed appropriate and/or necessary. 

Burden of Proof and Evidence 

• In all Integrity Council hearing, the burden of proof rests with the party bringing the charge(s). 

• The Council is not bound by formal legal rules of evidence. 

• Instead, the Council will use a developmentally appropriate and fair process to assess credibility and determine the facts. 

• To find a student(s) responsible for a violation, the Council must establish a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it is more likely than not that the violation occurred. 

Post-Hearing Process 

Deliberations 

• After all testimony is heard, the Chairperson will convene the Integrity Council to privately discuss the case. 

• The deliberations are not recorded nor transcribed. 

• The Council will deliberate until a decision(s) of responsible or not responsible for the violation(s) is reached. 

• If Integrity Council members identify extenuating circumstances, they may request a recess from the Director of Student Care and Integrity or their designee. Before the recess, the Chairperson will briefly reconvene all parties to explain the reason(s) for the pause. 

• The Chairperson will then dismiss all parties and reconvene the Council at an agreed upon time to complete deliberations. 

Decisions 

• After the Integrity Council finishes its private deliberations, a decision is made by a simple majority vote. 

• If more than half of the Council members must agree on whether the student is responsible or not responsible for the alleged violation(s). 

Sanctions 

• Sanctions will be recommended depending upon the frequency and severity of the violation(s). 

• If the violation(s) was committed intentionally and was motivated by bias, more serious sanctions may be recommended. 

• Please see Other Code of Integrity Sanctions sections for details. 

• More than one sanction may be applied if appropriate. 

• During the sanctioning phase, any existing disciplinary record, active or inactive, will be reviewed.  

• The Director of Student Care and Integrity will inform the Integrity Council if prior violations are on file.  

• This helps ensure that sanctions are consistent and reflect the student(s)’ overall conduct history. 

• If the student is found responsible for the violation(s): 

• The Council will assign sanctions based on the number of times the student has violated the Code. 

• First violation: Educational and corrective sanctions are typically assigned. 

• Second violation: Sanctions may be more serious and include probation or suspension. 

• Third violation: The Council will recommend suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the behavior. 

• Sanctions are designed to be fair, educational and consistent with the student(s)’ conduct history. 

Communications 

• The Chairperson will submit the Integrity Council’s findings in writing to the Director of Student Care and Integrity. 

• The Director of Student Care and Integrity will then notify the Dean of Students or the Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education, of the findings. 

• The Dean of Students or the Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education, may review the recommended sanction(s) and, if needed, adjust it to ensure fairness and alignment with College policies (See Temporary Actions with Approval section). 

• The Director of Student Care and Integrity or their designee will then inform the student(s) of the outcome after administrative review. 

Sanction Appeal 

• Students may appeal their sanction(s) by submitting a written request to the Dean of Students.  

• Appeals may be denied if the Dean of Students or the Director of Student Care and Integrity determines the request lacks sufficient grounds. 

Emergency Disciplinary Procedure-Interim Suspension  

If in the opinion of the Dean of Students, Director of Student Care and Integrity, or Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education, and with the concurrence of the appropriate area executive leader or their designee, the presence of the student on campus is considered to be an apparent immediate danger to the health or safety of members of the College community or the public, or involves serious disruption of normal College operations, the student may be suspended from attending class sessions or coming onto campus grounds as a temporary measure.  

During this period of suspension, the student is responsible for any outstanding financial obligation and/or is subject to any academic consequences as a result of missed class time.  

Anti-Hazing Policy  

This policy outlines the commitment of Carroll Community College (CCC) to prohibit all forms of hazing. Hazing is antithetical to the mission and values of CCC because it harms, degrades, and dehumanizes members of the Carroll Community.  

Therefore, hazing in any form is prohibited and participants will be held accountable, including, but not limited to, expulsion as it relates to individuals. Clubs, organizations, and teams could be disbanded. Actions could result in criminal charges as well as administrative sanctions. This is true regardless of the individual’s willingness to participate.  

Maryland law makes it a criminal misdemeanor to engage in the practice of hazing. Hazing can be defined as follows: “Any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or which willfully destroys or removes public or private property for the purpose of initiation or admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, any organization operating under the sanction of or recognized as an organization by an institution of higher learning. The term shall include, but not be limited to, any brutality of a physical nature, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure of elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, drug, or other substance, or any other forced physical activity which could adversely affect the physical health and safety of the individual and shall include any activity which would subject the individual to extreme mental stress, such as sleep deprivation, forced exclusion from social contact, forced conduct which could result in embarrassment, or any other forced activity which could adversely affect the mental health or dignity of the individual, or any willful destruction or removal of public or private property. For purposes of this definition, any activity as described in this definition upon which the admission or initiation into or affiliation with or continued membership or an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be presumed to be “forced” activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such an activity notwithstanding.”  

For specific information, consult the Office of Institutional Integrity, Compliance, and Accreditation. Each organization is responsible for informing members (new members, associate members, affiliates, or guests) of the hazing policy.  

Disciplinary Sanctions 

• If a student is found responsible for violating the Code, whether through behavior or academic dishonesty, the student may receive one or more disciplinary sanctions. 

• A student’s full conduct history, active or inactive, will be considered during the sanctioning process, whether handled through an administrative resolution or an Integrity Council hearing. 

• Sanctions are designed to be educational, proportionate, and reflective of a student’s conduct history. 

• The severity of the sanction(s) will reflect: 

• The seriousness of the violation and 

• Any prior conduct history. 

• Sanctions may be issued through either an administrative process or an Integrity Council hearing. 

• More than one sanction may be applied if appropriate. 

Temporary Actions with Approval 

• During the resolution process, the College may also take temporary action with approval from the Dean of Students or the Vice President, Workforce, Business, and Continuing Education. 

• Temporary actions with approval may be and are not limited to: 

• Delay of Degree / Certificate 

• Transcript Hold 

• Commencement Restrictions 

• Course Drop Block 

• Revocation of Degree / Certificate 

Other Code of Integrity Sanctions 

The Integrity Council may recommend more serious sanctions if it determines that a violation was committed intentionally and was motivated by bias related to: 

• Race 

• Religion 

• Color 

• Disability 

• Sexual orientation 

• Gender 

• National origin 

• Age 

• Ancestry 

These violations are treated with heightened concern and may result in stronger disciplinary outcomes. 

Sanction Levels 

• Students who receive sanctions may not be eligible to participate in Student Life programs or events, depending on the nature and severity of the violation. 

• Reprimand 

• Warning 

• Probation 

• Deferred Suspension 

• Suspension 

• Expulsion 

Additional Educational Sanctions 

To support learning and personal development, a student may be assigned: 

• Educational or restorative action projects, such as but not limited to: 

• Completion of a seminar, such as alcohol or drug education or personal development 

• Proof of satisfactory completion is required. 

• Participation in an approved rehabilitation program, when appropriate 

• Restitution, which requires repairing or reimbursing for damage or loss. 

• This may involve monetary payment or service hours. 

• Referral for specialized support, such as counseling, family engagement, or community services, may be offered in place of or alongside other sanctions. 

• Students referred for support are expected to meet periodically with the Director of Student Care and Integrity to review progress. 

• Community service 

• Workshops or trainings (e.g., ethics, decision-making, conflict resolution) 

• Restorative actions to repair harm and rebuild trust within the community 

Denial of Re-admission 

Students who withdraw from the College before or during disciplinary proceedings may be denied re-admission if found responsible for a violation of the Code. 

Disciplinary Files and Records 

• If a student is found not responsible for a violation(s), the disciplinary file will be voided, marked accordingly, and kept separate from active records. It will not result in a disciplinary history. 

• If a student is found responsible, the file will remain active for five years from the date of the final decision letter. 

• Sanctions are not recorded on academic transcripts, in accordance with professional standards set by the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO). 

• Active disciplinary records may be shared with third parties as permitted by College policy and applicable laws. 

• Active disciplinary records may be shared with third parties when required by law or institutional policy, in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). 

• This includes: 

• Disclosures for employment 

• Graduate student applications 

• Licensure 

• Other official purposes 

• Inactive files may be confirmed to third parties, but their contents will not be disclosed with the student’s written consent. 

• Students may request that their disciplinary record be voided for good cause by submitting a written request to the Dean of Students (See Request to Void or Expunge a Record section, below). 

Request to Void or Expunge a Record 

In alignment with ASCA’s Model Procedures Guide and restorative approaches to student development, a student may request to void or expunge their disciplinary record for good cause by submitting a written petition to the Dean of Students. 

Requests are reviewed by the Integrity Council. Requests must demonstrate: 

• Completion of all assigned sanctions 

• No further violation(s) 

• A compelling reason for removal (e.g., graduation, professional advancement) 

Records involving suspension, expulsion, or serious violations may not be eligible for expungement, depending on institutional policy and applicable law. 

Glossary of Terms 

This glossary provides clear definitions of key terms related to student conduct, following best practices recommended by the Association for Student Conduct Administration (ASCA). Each term includes its definition, why it matters, and resources available to students.