Policies and procedures, including those listed below, can be found on the University Website at: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/Policies/. These policies and procedures are subject to change at any time without notice.

Policies

Academic Accommodation of Students with Disabilities

Missouri State University-West Plains is committed to providing an accessible and supportive environment for students with disabilities. Equal access for qualified students with disabilities is an obligation under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Students seeking service are responsible for notifying the University of their disabilities, requesting academic accommodation(s), and providing documentation of the disability from a qualified professional. Documentation must include necessary evidence of a disability-related need for the requested accommodation(s). Accommodation(s) cannot be based simply on the student’s preferences; students must show a legitimate purpose for requesting an academic accommodation. Such accommodation(s), auxiliary aids, and services cannot alter the fundamental nature of the course or program of instruction. In addition, auxiliary aids and services cannot result in an undue burden to the university.

Auxiliary aids and services as defined by law will be provided without cost to a student entitled to such aid. Students generally will not be provided devices or services of a personal nature, such as attendants, individually prescribed devices, or readers for personal use or study.

Students requesting academic accommodation(s) should contact the Disability Services Coordinator in the Student Advisement and Academic Support Center at (417)255-7222 or (TTY) 417-255-7715. The accommodation policy for students with disabilities may be accessed at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/AcademicAffairs/Accommodation.htm.

Advertising, Distribution, and Solicitation Policy

Advertising and solicitation are similar in that both promote a product, a service, or an event. Policies governing advertising and solicitations at the University are appropriate in order to ensure that advertising and solicitation activities serve the students, faculty, and staff, as well as their organizations. Further, advertising and solicitation policies contribute to ensuring that the general appearance and condition of the University’s facilities and environment are maintained at an appropriate level. The Advertising, Distribution, and Solicitation Policy may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/BusinessServices/Advertising.htm.

Alcohol and Drugs

The consumption of alcoholic beverages and illegal drugs on University property is absolutely forbidden, and violators will be duly prosecuted by local law enforcement agencies.

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices in the Classroom

As a member of the learning community, each student has a responsibility to other students who are members of the community. When cell phones or pagers ring and students respond in class or leave class to respond, it disrupts the class. Therefore, the Office of Academic Affairs asks that cell phones, pagers, or similar communication devices be turned off or put into silent mode during class. At the discretion of the instructor, exception to this policy is possible in special circumstances.

The University also acknowledges the usefulness of electronic devices to students in the learning process; however, the use of computers, PDAs, or other electronic devices in classrooms and instructional settings is at the discretion of the instructor. Students should review instructors’ policy statements for information about whether or not they will be allowed to use such devices in the classroom and other instructional setting.

Facility Usage Policy

In keeping with its mission to serve the community by providing formal and informal educational opportunities, Missouri State University-West Plains will make its facilities available to community groups for educational, cultural, or other purposes consistent with the role of the University. The full policy may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/BusinessServices/FacilityUsage.htm.

Firearms and Weapons Policy

In addition to applicable provisions of federal, state, and local law, including Chapter 571 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, firearms and weapons of any type are prohibited on campus. This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, administrators, and visitors, including those individuals who are lawfully licensed to carry a weapon in the performance of their non-university business/profession. Law enforcement personnel acting in their official capacities and Missouri State University-West Plains public safety officers performing required duties on the campus are excluded.

Food and Beverages Policy

As a general rule, food and drink should be consumed at the Putnam Student Center or in lounge areas within campus facilities. Food and drink are prohibited in computer labs, classrooms with computer-equipped student stations, and the Melton Lecture Hall. Permission to have food and drink in other classrooms will be at the discretion of the instructor. Permission to have food and drink in non-classroom areas will be at the discretion of the University official in charge of the particular area. A dining room is located in the Putnam Student Center for the convenience and use of the students. A full menu of reasonably-priced food entrees, sodas, and snacks are available. Dining room and snack bar hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Food and Beverage policy may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/BusinessServices/Food.htm.

Freedom of Expression

Missouri State University-West Plains is a campus that values diversity, intellectual dialogue and free speech. It is a campus that promotes its values widely and makes these values known publicly through the Course Catalog, as well as a number of publications and websites. For student issues, a number of relevant sections from these documents are presented to help the reader conveniently find and be aware of our institutional policies on freedom of expression. It is also important to know that a mechanism exists to allow a student to raise concerns including free speech, censorship, restrictive perspectives, or abuse of intellectual authority. The Freedom of Expression information can be found at http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/StudentServices/6329.htm.

Liability Protection Policy

Because only officers or employees of the University are generally covered by the legal expense fund of the State of Missouri, students involved in internships or cooperative employments with other organizations are advised to provide for their own liability insurance through their cooperative employer/internship sponsor, through professional organizations, or personally.

Nondiscrimination Policy

Missouri State University is a community of people with respect for diversity. The University emphasizes the dignity and equality common to all persons and adheres to a strict nondiscrimination policy regarding the treatment of individual faculty, staff, and students. In accord with federal law and applicable Missouri statutes, the University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, or veteran status in employment or in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University.

In addition, the University does not discriminate on any basis (including, but not limited to, political affiliation and sexual orientation) not related to the applicable educational requirements for students or the applicable job requirements for employees. This policy shall not be interpreted in a manner as to violate the legal rights of religious organizations or military organizations associated with the Armed Forces of the United States of America. The University maintains a grievance procedure incorporating due process available to any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against. Missouri State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Inquiries concerning the grievance procedure, Affirmative Action Plan, or compliance with federal and state laws and guidelines should be addressed to Brenda Malkowski, Equal Opportunity Officer, 128 Garfield, West Plains, MO 65775, (417) 255-7966. Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action complaint procedures can be accessed at the following internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/Equity/Nondiscrimination.htm.

Pets Policy

Pets under the control of an adult (i.e., 18 years or older) are permitted on University property, but are not permitted within University-owned or -leased buildings. Exceptions: Single family dwellings (e.g., residence for the Coordinator of Student Life and Development, Chancellor’s residence, etc.); animals trained to assist persons with disabilities; animals used in University laboratories for official research, classroom or observation purposes; and fish in residence halls. Animals (e.g., dogs, cats, monkeys, etc.) must be leashed to be under the control of an adult. Exception: Animals trained to provide ADA accommodations for people with disabilities. A loose animal trailing a leash, or one tied to a fixed object, is not under the control of an adult. Animals which are unleashed, or leashed and unattended, on University property, are subject to impoundment. Animals left unattended in motor vehicles on University property are subject to the same rules and regulations if they become a nuisance or if the welfare of the animal is threatened.

Any pet found within a University-owned or -leased building may be impounded. Impounded pets may be reclaimed by the owner at the Animal Control Department (417-255-1860) upon payment in full of all costs incurred as a result of the impoundment, including any veterinary expenses.

Public Availability of Safety Reports Policy

Under the ruling of U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri, security records, including personally identifiable information regarding students, are available for public disclosure and release. The judicial order requires this disclosure under the Missouri Sunshine Law (construed to protect the name and address of a victim whose identifiable assailant is still at large). Missouri State University-West Plains has adopted security records access release guidelines which are available from the Office of Student Life and Development.

Public Forum Policy

Missouri State University-West Plains is committed to providing an environment where issues can be openly discussed and explored. The freedom to exchange views is essential to the life of the University. In order to provide an atmosphere in which open communication can occur without disrupting the academic mission or daily University functions, a policy is in place to govern campus demonstrations and speakers. The Public Forum Policy may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/StudentLife/Public.htm.

Right to Know Policy

Certain information is federally mandated and is annually provided to every employee and student of Missouri State University-West Plains out of concern for their welfare and in compliance with federal laws. This information is also available on the Missouri State University-West Plains Policies page at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/StudentLife/srtk.htm.

Rollerblading/Skateboarding Policy

Skateboarding is not allowed on campus. In-line skating, roller skating, and cycling are allowed on campus; however, the following activities are prohibited: acrobatics (e.g., jumping on or over steps, benches, walls, rails, bike racks, etc.); excessive speed; blocking pedestrian paths (e.g., sidewalks, ramps, doors, etc.); entering buildings while wearing in-line skates or roller skates; and any activity which reasonably presents a risk of injury to persons or damage to property. Participants who do not comply with the policy will receive a warning for the first offense. Repeat offenders will be subject to University disciplinary action and/or prosecution under city/state law. Furthermore, any participant who is involved in an accident on University property may be held liable for causing physical injury or property damage.

Speakers and Facilities Usage Policy

The use of University facilities for speakers is intended to support the academic mission and is therefore viewed as educational programming. The University retains the exclusive right, through authorized persons and organizations, to determine the appropriateness of speakers scheduled for University facilities. The complete policy may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/BusinessServices/Speakers.htm.

Tobacco Policy

Missouri State University-West Plains recognizes that tobacco smoke and tobacco in the various smokeless forms are hazards to the health of the University community. To protect the health of the University community, Missouri State University-West Plains designates all buildings as smoke-free. Smoking in vehicles owned or leased by the University is prohibited. The success of this policy depends on the thoughtfulness, consideration, and cooperation of smokers and nonsmokers. The Missouri State University-West Plains community shares in the responsibility for adhering to and enforcing this policy.

Because of the harmful consequences of tobacco use, both active and passive, the University has adopted the following policies:

• Smoking is prohibited in University buildings.
• Smoking will be allowed only in the ollowing designated outside areas:
  • Garnett Library – As there is only one entrance, the front entrance is acceptable.
  • Grizzly House – Southeast door on the first floor.
  • Kellett Hall – Nursing entrance door.
  • Looney Hall – Northwest second floor door.
  • Lybyer – North doors downstairs.
  • Melton Hall – North door facing the Post Office.
  • Putnam Student Center – Southeast Jefferson Street door.
• Smoking is prohibited in vehicles leased or owned by the University.
• The use of smokeless tobacco is prohibited in all locations on campus.
• Visitors to Missouri State University-West Plains are included under this policy as temporary members of the University community.

Video Surveillance Policy

To ensure the security of students, faculty, staff and visitors, campus buildings and surrounding parking lots are subject to recorded video surveillance 24 hours per day.

Weather Policy

The general policy for weather is that classes will not be canceled because of inclement weather. Students should use their own good judgment regarding travel when weather conditions are questionable. Faculty, staff and students should call the Missouri State University- West Plains Weather Hotline at 417-255-8075 for information regarding the status of Missouri State University-West Plains classes, Extended Campus classes, and Missouri State University-Springfield Academic Outreach classes. In extreme conditions, however, classes may be canceled. When all campuses are closed due to weather, local radio stations and Springfield television stations will be notified. There is no need to call the administrative offices or your instructor if you cannot attend class because of weather conditions. Faculty members are encouraged to allow make-up work for classes missed because of weather conditions. The policy may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/UnivComm/WeatherPolicy.htm.

Procedures

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Complaint Procedures

All University students and employees are free to seek relief from discrimination or harassment without fear of restraint, reprisal, interference, or coercion. No employee or student’s status with the University shall be adversely affected in any way because he or she utilizes these procedures. Any member of the University community who feels that he or she has been discriminated against or harassed may meet in consultation with the Missouri State University-West Plains Affirmative Action Liaison, telephone (417) 255-7966. Complete information regarding complaint procedures.may be accessed at the following web address: http://www.missouristate.edu/Equity/10328.htm.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The University complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. In accordance with this federal law, the institution has adopted policies and procedures governing the confidentiality of student educational records. No individual shall have access to, nor will the institution disclose any information from, a student’s educational record without the written consent of the student or as otherwise authorized by FERPA. Among permitted exceptions under the law are included disclosures to: University personnel who have a legitimate educational interest, officials of other institutions in which a student seeks enrollment, representatives of agencies or organizations from which a student has received financial aid, and certain federal and state officials. A detailed list is available on the website identified below. Information designated as directory information also may be released unless specifically prohibited by the student. The following information regarding students is considered directory information: (1) name, (2) local telephone number, (3) local address, including campus e-mail address, (4) major field of study, (5) academic classification and enrollment status – part-time or full-time, (6) participation in recognized activities and sports, including photographs of athletes, (7) dates of attendance, (including matriculation and withdrawal dates), (8) degrees, certificates, and awards received, including scholastic honors, departmental honors, memberships in national honor societies, and athletic letters, (9) inclusion of an individual in a group photo. If issues of health and safety can be documented, campus community and law enforcement personnel may also be provided an individual photo. Further, the University releases lists of students who qualify for the Dean’s and Chancellor’s lists, as well as lists of graduates to newspapers which cover the permanent address of record. The institutional “Policy Regarding Personally Identifiable Student Records” is available in the Office of Academic Affairs and the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/AcademicAffairs/FERPA.htm.

Sexual Offenses Procedures

If you are the victim of a sexual offense at Missouri State University-West Plains and live on campus, contact the Dean of Student Services. You need not give the name of your assailant, and your name will not be released to the police or the media. The Dean will provide information about counseling, medical assistance, reporting to the police, and University discipline procedures. She/he will be able to answer your questions and provide assistance.

If you live off-campus, call the West Plains Police Department, (417) 256-2244, or 911. You need not give your name or the name of your assailant, and your name should not be released to the press. You will receive information about counseling and medical assistance.

Whether you live on-campus or are a commuting student, all sexual offenses should be reported to the Coordinator of Student Life and Development.

For more information about what constitutes a sexual offense or sexual harassment, what definitions are used in describing sexual offense and harassment, and the minimum sanctions that could be leveled against one who commits a sexual offense or harassment, see the Student Right-to-Know information found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/Equity/Offenses.htm.

Philosophy

Academic Freedom

The University is committed to freedom of thought and inquiry for both faculty and students. This commitment ensures the protectionof the faculty’s freedom to teach, research, and publish in their professional capacities without restraint or fear of reprisals. Academic freedom is essential to the University’s instruction and research programs. Freedom in research is fundamental to the advancement of truth. Academic freedom in instruction is essential for the protection of the rights of faculty to teach and of the students’ freedom to learn.

Accountability

As a state-assisted university, Missouri State University-West Plains is accountable to various publics for the fiscal management of public funds, for educational outcomes relevant to individual and social needs, and for the effective administration of University programs. The University is committed to the concept of public accountability in its broadest sense, for it is the obligation of the institution, faculty, and staff to produce outcomes consistent with goals of the institution. Such a commitment obligates the University to: (1) define institutional goals and priorities, (2) determine the degree to which goals are achieved, (3) identify and measure the outcome of its programs, and (4) measure the costs and benefits of its programs. Inherent in these obligations is a commitment to systematic institutional planning and to continuous program review and evaluation in order to ensure maintenance of quality and excellence.

Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities

The Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities is the written set of student rights and rules for campus. Educated persons are developed through the interaction of competent, caring faculty and capable, motivated students, supported by dedicated professional staff. It is assumed that the three components of the University—faculty, staff, and students—come together as a community in pursuit of the single purpose of the University. In joining this community, students have certain rights and voluntarily assume certain responsibilities that are necessary for promoting the welfare of the community. Although no definitive list of responsibilities can ever truly be developed, the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities represents the main responsibilities students assume by becoming citizens of the University community. The Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities may be found at the following Internet address: http://www.wp.missouristate.edu/StudentLife/Code.htm and at the beginning of this catalog.

Educational Accessibility and Opportunity

Missouri State University-West Plains is committed to educational accessibility for all students who have demonstrated by traditional academic achievement (high school diploma) an aptitude for successful accomplishment at the collegiate level.

Missouri State University-West Plains also provides educational access based on criteria other than traditional achievement measures (General Educational Development (GED) ex- aminations) for those students seeking learning opportunities for purposes of career enhancement, professional development, or self-enrichment. The University does not discriminate, on the basis of any category listed in the Non-Discrimination Policy, in its educational programs, services, or activities. Inquiries may be directed to Brenda Malkowski, Affirmative Action Liaison, Missouri State University-West Plains, 128 Garfield Ave., West Plains, MO 65775, (417) 255-7966.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University is committed to nondiscrimination and equal employment opportunities and to affirmative action programs designed to strengthen this commitment. The University takes affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in all personnel-related activities administered by the institution. This commitment includes the intent to maintain an environment free from discrimination, including harassment, based on any of the protected categories listed in the Non-Discrimination Policy. Inquiries regarding the Missouri State University Affirmative Action Plan or compliance with Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, the Age Discrimination Acts, and the Americans with Disabilities Act may be addressed to Brenda Malkowski, Affirmative Action Liaison, Missouri State University-West Plains, 128 Garfield Ave., West Plains, MO 65775, (417) 255-7966.

Resource Management

The University is committed to the concept that future growth and selective development in areas of excellence must be based on present and potential strengths which relate to the institution’s physical, financial, and human resources. This commitment has several implications for University programs and services. Resource allocation decisions must be guided by an explicit statement of goals and priorities for the future.