Education | Higher education » Portage College, Student Handbook

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2020 • 2021 WELCOME TO PORTAGE COLLEGE! “Student life is about having an enjoyable and enriching experience while attending Portage College at any of our campuses. “This handbook has been prepared to assist you so you can meet your educational goals, and it also serves as a quick reference to services available for your success. We want to hear your voice, it’s important to us!” Bev Moghrabi, Vice President Student and College Services 1 CONTENTS Getting Connected 4 Logging In 4 WiFi 4 Printing (PaperCut) 5 Portage Alert 6 Portage College App 6 Student Services 7 Awards, Scholarships and Bursaries 7 Counselling Services 7 Voyageur Grill 9 Portage Market 9 Portage College Bookstore 10 2020-2021 Important Dates 11 Learning Resources 12 Library Services 12 Student Learning Services 13 Moodle 14

Office 365 Education 15 LinkedIn Learning 15 2 Athletics and Recreation 16 Athletics 16 Fitness and Recreation 17 Be Fit For Life 17 Getting Involved 19 Students’ Association of Portage College 19 Student Ambassadors 20 Alumni Association 20 What You Need to Know 21 COVID-19: Returning to Campus 21 Safety on Campus 25 Sexual Violence Prevention 27 Smudging 33 Guidelines, Policies and Agreements 34 3 GETTING CONNECTED Logging In *Please note: Due to COVID-19, some classrooms/labs may be unavailable throughout our campuses. Please contact campus for availability The College will be communicating with you using your Portage College email account. Your account has been set up as studentID@mymailportagecollegeca Go to portagecollege.ca/login or visit the Portage College website and click "Login" Username: your student ID number

Password: default password is formed using your name and birth date Example John Smith born April 17, 1991 Student ID #145321 Username: 145321 Password: #js@1991 For assistance with your login account and/or online course issues, contact Learning Technology Support at 1-888-623-5717. WiFi WiFi is available at all campus locations. To connect to the College WiFi, browse available wireless networks and select “Portage-Internet”. If you need assistance connecting to the WiFi, contact your campus library or contact the support line above. 4 Printing (PaperCut) Portage College uses the PaperCut printing system. To activate your PaperCut card, sign in to your network login account. In the bottom right hand corner of your monitor you will see the PaperCut window. Left click on “Details”. This will take you to the PaperCut login Use your network sign-in information as your username and password. The next screen is your printing usage summary. To activate PaperCut cards,

select “Redeem Card” feature (left side of screen) and enter the number that appears in the center of your card. Once you have entered your card number, press “Redeem Card” button to activate your card, allowing you to print using the College printers. Print cards can be purchased from the Portage College Bookstore in Lac La Biche or over the phone by calling 780-623-5647. 5 6 STUDENT SERVICES Awards, Scholarships and Bursaries Students can access free money throughout the year with our Awards, Scholarships and Bursaries program. We have options for students in every program Applications forms are available online and at your campus’ Student Services centre. Completed forms can be submitted to Student Services by email to awards@portagecollege.ca For more information about the program, check out our awards booklet online or give us a shout! Our friendly awards office staff are happy to help you with the application process. Phone: 780-623-5503 Email:

awards@portagecollege.ca Counselling Services It is important that our students have access to a wide variety of counselling services. These services include counselling for educational, academic, career, vocational and personal needs. We now offer virtual counselling! Simply contact one of our counsellors to book an appointment or get instant support for your mental health using the TalkCampus app. All interviews are kept strictly confidential. Academic/Educational Counselling • Determine the program/course that’s right for you • Identify realistic educational choices • Plan beyond graduation from a Portage College program • Get information on the entrance requirements for other post-secondary institutions and help you apply access specialized services for individual learning and disabilities Career Counselling • Benefit in your college studies by determining realistic occupational goals • Learn more about occupations of interest to you • Access the Career

Cruising computer program and develop your interest inventories through self-directed search and career decision-making systems 7 Personal Counselling • Individual help is available for your personal concerns • Learn positive ways to deal with personal issues which may arise • Help you increase your academic success • Assistance is available in areas such as, but not limited to, family relations, alcohol or drug abuse, depression, loneliness, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, interpersonal relationships, decision-making and returning to school Career Counselling • Determine realistic occupational goals • Learn more about occupations of interest to you • Access the Career Cruising computer program and develop your interest inventories through self-directed search and career decision-making systems Other Counselling Services A variety of individual and group workshops are offered during the academic year. Our Counselling team and Student Learning Services staff are

trained and certified in the following: • Stress management: Determine your stress levels, rate your coping mechanisms, understand why some people handle stress better than others and discuss proven stress reduction strategies. • Time management: Tips on how to better juggle school expectations with family responsibilities. • Personality exploration colour spectrum: Understanding the personality types of others and having an awareness of your own can provide insight for careers, work relationships, and learning styles. • Self esteem: What is it? Where does it come from? It’s the key ingredient in feeling great and being successful. Learn how to improve yours and raise a sense of self worth of those around you. • Loneliness and depression: Take charge of your situation. Meet new friends and learn coping techniques. • Anxiety: Strategies for reducing anxiety are shared. Our Counselling Team Mental Health Support Workers Cold Lake Genevieve Milliken · 780-639-7107

genevieve.milliken@portagecollegeca Cold Lake Alanna Bauman · 780-639-7159 alanna.bauman@portagecollegeca Lac La Biche Fran Stewart · 780-623-5578 frances.stewart@portagecollegeca Lac La Biche Debbie Jansen · 780-623-5544 debbie.jansen@portagecollegeca St. Paul William Gill · 780-614-6347 william.gill@portagecollegeca Indigenous Counsellor 8 Melissa Larocque · 780-623-5576 melissa.larocque@portagecollegeca *Please note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Voyageur Grill and Portage Market are closed until further notice. Please refer to the Portage College website for updates Voyageur Grill The Voyageur Grill at the Lac La Biche campus offers a variety of beverages, snacks and freshly made food. Daily specials are displayed on the TV screens within the cafeteria. For your convenience, the Voyageur Grill accepts meal cards, debit/credit cards and cash. Other campuses have access to several food establishments in the immediate area. Hours of Operation Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m

– 5:00 pm* * Hours are subject to change. Portage Market Portage Market at the St. Paul campus features various food and drink items prepared by the College’s Culinary Arts and Baking students and by our in-house caterer. Product selection varies throughout the year, depending on what students are preparing in their courses. As a result, each day will feature different food options or themes. Hours of Operation Monday to Friday 10:00 a.m – 1:30 pm Phone: 780-614-6344 Note: Vending Machines are available for use at the Boyle, Cold Lake, Lac La Biche and St. Paul campuses 9 Portage College Bookstore Want to show off your Portage College spirit or need a gift for someone? Drop by our wicket at the Lac La Biche campus or visit us online and check out our Portage College logo’d apparel and giftware. Textbook lists can be found online at portagecollege.ca/bookstore If you are based out of one of our community campuses, you can place an order over the phone or by email. Phone:

1-866-623-5551 ext. 5647 Email: bookstore@portagecollege.ca Note: A valid credit card will be required for all orders placed over the phone. Hours of Operation Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m – 10:00 am 10:30 a.m – 12:00 pm 1:00 p.m – 4:00 pm 10 2020-2021 Important Dates FALL TERM 2020 August 14 Fall Term tuition fees due August 27 Fall Term begins September 7 Labour Day ­ College closed September 18 Staff Welcome Back ­ College closed October 2 Award deadline October 12 Thanksgiving College closed October 13-16 Fall Reading Week No classes November 11 Remembrance Day College closed November 13 Award deadline December 18 Winter Term tuition fees due December 21-31 Holiday Break College closed WINTER TERM 2021 January 1 New Years Day College closed January 4 Winter Term begins January 22 Award deadline February 15 Family Day College closed February 16-19 Winter Reading Week No classes March 26 Award deadline April 2-5 Spring Break

College closed April 16 Spring Term tuition fees due SPRING TERM 2021 May 3 Spring Term begins May 7 Award deadline May 24 Victoria Day College closed 11 LEARNING RESOURCES Library Services *Please note: Due to COVID-19, there have been changes for the Fall Term. See posted signage and social media pages for updates. Visit the Library Services web page for the most current hours of operation. Regular Hours of Operation September through June Monday to Thursday: 8:15 a.m – 9:00 pm Friday: 8:15 a.m – 4:30 pm Sunday: 1:00 p.m – 7:00 pm (Lac La Biche campus only) July through August Monday to Friday: 8:15 a.m – 4:30 pm Sunday: Closed Note: The Cold Lake Library is closed during the summer. Closed for statutory holidays (long weekends). Physical Space As a student you will be assigned a student ID. Your ID allows computer and printing privileges throughout the College and in the Library. The Lac La Biche branch has 23 computers and the Cold Lake branch has 19

computers. Along with printing, students can also photocopy and scan to email. The Lac La Biche branch has two study rooms that are available for individual or group bookings in two-hour blocks. Bookings are done at the Circulation/Information Help Desk, or through online booking on the Library Services web page. Library Web Page The library web page (https://www.portagecollegeca/Library) is your gateway to materials for learning and support. You can access our library catalogue, guides, databases, chat service and more! Library Guides Use library guides to help complete assignments and papers. Library guides include information on research, copyright, plagiarism, citation styles, and other subject specific content. Access the library guides at: https://portagecollege-calibguidescom/ 12 Library Catalogue The library catalogue contains both physical and electronic resources. You can search directly from the search box on the library web page or click on "Advanced Search".

Physical items (eg books, magazines and videos) can be checked out for up to three weeks using your student ID card. Electronic Resources You have access to thousands of online books, journals and videos available 24/7. Remote access is also available with your off-campus login credentials. Research and Citation Assistance Contact a librarian for one-to-one help by email of through chat or request onscreen assistance by booking an online meeting through Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Google Hangouts. Student Research Guide: https://portagecollege-ca.libguidescom/student Interlibrary Loans You can request books/articles that arent available in the library’s collection through interlibrary loan by emailing library@portagecollege.ca Contact Library Services Cold Lake campus: 780-639-7128 | library.cl@portagecollegeca Lac La Biche campus: 780-623-5650 | library@portagecollege.ca Follow us on Twitter or Facebook (@portagelib) or on the Portage College app for information about services,

resources and events. You can also chat with us on our library web page! Student Learning Services Student Learning Services (SLS) promotes equal opportunity and invites students with disability to the educational community at Portage College. Our department is committed to providing an inclusive learning environment. SLS offers students necessary accommodations and tools for learning. Learning Facilitators meet with students, gather relevant background information and review documentation of disability. Our staff can provide services such as one-on-one strategy sessions, exam accommodations, assistive technology access, alternate format material and/or other contracted services. Once barriers are identified, an Individual Education Plan is implemented. Educational information and guidance, including referrals to other service departments, will also be facilitated by your learning support team. If you have previously experienced any barriers to learning, please contact our department

as soon as possible. This will help ensure supports are in place when you begin you program. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment. 13 Contact Student Learning Services Main Contact 1-866-623-5551 sls@portagecollege.ca Cold Lake Sarah Williams Room 1310 780-639-7108 sarah.williams@portagecollegeca St. Paul Patricia Amyotte Rooms 106 and 108 780-614-6337 patricia.amyotte@portagecollegeca Lac La Biche Geraldine Hagen SLS Office 780-623-5758 geraldine.hagen@portagecollegeca Kerrianne Tynan SLS Office 780-623-5569 kerrianne.tynan@portagecollegeca Moodle Moodle is a learning management software that offers an online environment for instructors and students to interact with one another, and with the learning content and resources. Students and instructors can communicate using text-based web-conferencing. Instruction, content and resources are available in a variety of web based formats and students can complete, submit and track their assignments and

access their grades. Moodle courses are accessible to students through the 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Moodle is also used to support face-to-face classroom courses. Go to one of our Moodle sites and check out the "Getting Started with Moodle" course, where you will learn about the features of Moodle and what it is like to use Moodle, Elluminate, and Video Conferencing in your courses. Check out "Student Tutorial Videos" on the "Login" page on our website for a video tutorial on how to set up your Moodle account. MoodleHelp 1-888-623-5717 Monday to Thursday: 8:15 a.m – 9:00 pm Friday: 8:15 a.m – 4:30 pm Note: Closed on statutory holidays. 14 Office 365 Education Students have access to Office 365 Education for free, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and Microsoft Teams, plus additional classroom tools. As a student, you can access Office 365 anytime, anywhere, from any device, including your personal computer or mobile device. Each

account has a maximum of five installations. Email: yourstudentID@mymail.portagecollegeca Example 145321@mymail.portagecollegeca To set up your account, click "Learning Resources" under the "Student Services" tab on the Portage College website. Check out "Student Tutorial Videos" on the "Login" page for a video tutorial on how to access Office 365. LinkedIn Learning Portage College holds a subscription to LinkedIn Learning, a self-guided online learning service that helps students achieve their personal and professional goals. Students, staff and faculty have free access to the extensive online resources offered by this educational site. LinkedIn Learning contains over 14,000 courses in the fields of business, creativity and technology. Learn how to use Microsoft Office, write an essay using APA style, balance school and life, improve your communication skills, and so much more! Check out "Student Tutorial Videos" on the

"Login" page for a video tutorial on how to access and set up LinkedIn Learning. 15 ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Athletics *Please note: Due to COVID-19, the Portage College athletics program has been suspended for 2020-2021 year. The Colleges athletics program will be taking a leave of absence from Alberta Colleges Athletics Conference (ACAC) competition in Men’s Hockey, Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Futsal, Golf and Curling for the 2020-2021 season. Portage has sent a formal application requesting manifest hardship for the season. This also means that there will be no athletic scholarships awarded to student athletes for the 2020-21 academic year. Voyageur athletes are known for being dedicated and hardworking. Our athletic department at Portage College is a member of the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC). You can follow your favourite players and teams at acacabca or watch online via ACACTV. We have teams in five different ACAC sports: • Mens Hockey •

Mens, Womens and Mixed Curling • Mens and Womens Futsal • Mens and Womens Golf • Mens and Womens Soccer Contact Athletics and Recreation Nate Bedford Manager, Athletics and Recreation Head Coach, Mens Hockey 780-623-5545 nate.bedford@portagecollegeca For more information and updates regarding our athletics program, visit the Portage College Athletics website: https://athletics.portagecollegeca 16 Fitness and Recreation *Please note: Due to COVID-19, all fitness and recreation activities will be postponed until further notice, including the closure of the gymnasium and fitness centre. The fitness and recreation department is your first stop for on-campus health and well-being. As a Portage College student, your student ID card provides you with access to different campus recreation services in Boyle, Cold Lake, St. Paul and Lac La Biche. All Voyageurs Athletics games are free for students, provided they bring their current student ID card. For more information and updates

regarding our fitness and recreation program, visit the Portage College website: https://portagecollege.ca/fitness-recreation Be Fit For Life *Please note: Due to COVID-19, all Be Fit For Life activities and services will be postponed until further notice. Fitness Resource Centre The Be Fit For Life Network has been Alberta’s source for active living since 1982. The Network is comprised of nine regional centres focusing on providing services, programs and resources to promote the health benefits of active living and physical activity. The Network is also associated with the Alberta Active Living Coalition and the Provincial Fitness Unit. The Network is supported by the Government of Albertas Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation program, and by hosting postsecondary institutions. 17 Fitness classes are free for Portage College students! The Fitness Resource Centre is located in Room 126 adjacent to the gymnasium at the Lac La Biche campus. Outline of Services • Develop and

distribute health, wellness and fitness information resources • Active living, healthy eating, and wellness presentations/interactive displays • Collaboration on active living initiatives with community partners • Coordination of special events and community projects (e.g Active Kids and P.LAY Society, GO GIRL, Winter Walk Day, etc) • Customized cardiovascular, flexibility,muscular strength and endurance programs • Variety of group exercise classes (e.g PiYO Live, Bootcamp, Cycle and Core, Barre, Groove, BellyFit, Kickboxing, Yoga, Women on Weights, MetCon, etc.) • Be Fit for Life Move and Play through Physical Literacy Series, NCCP FUNdamental Movement Skills Community Leader, CS4L Quality Physical Literacy Experiences and HIGH FIVE Principles of Healthy Child Development and Quest 2 workshops • Outreach programs and services for individuals, communities, schools and workplaces • Fitness/health/lifestyle counseling, nutrition coaching and fitness

assessments • Personal and small group fitness training and post-physio corrective exercise programs • Alberta Fitness Leadership Certification Association courses (Exercise Theory, Resistance Training, Group Exercise Fundamentals and Portable Equipment) Contact Be Fit For Life Deborah Menard Coordinator, Be Fit For Life Phone: 780-623-5542 Cell: 780-404-5505 deb.menard@portagecollegeca befitforlife.ca 18 GETTING INVOLVED Students Association of Portage College The Students’ Association of Portage College (SAPC) is a non-profit organization governed by a Students’ Council and Executive committee. Our purpose is to enhance the college experience for students of Portage College through activities such as student advocacy, clubs, events and business enterprises. We give students real-life opportunities to learn about board governance and volunteer committees. Being a part of the SAPC gives you the opportunity to be a voice for students, by students, and to participate in

organizing events for your campus. Each campus elects (or appoints) campus representatives who make up the SAPC’s Students’ Council. Meetings are scheduled throughout the school year, giving representatives a platform to discuss issues and activities that affect students at Portage College. The purpose of the SAPC is to: • Assist Portage College in creating an atmosphere which will encourage and inspire student learning. • Advocate for students at the institutional, municipal, provincial and federal levels of government. • Provide support to students when communicating ideas and concerns to Portage College • Organize a variety of events and activities in order to enhance student life at Portage College. • Cultivate connections between students and stakeholders by maintaining and facilitating long-term relationships with key individuals and organizations. • Develop and maintain student representation on decision-making boards and committees of Portage College.

19 • Communicate and support student rights in all levels of government. • Administer student’s affairs and Students’ Association funds. • Provide an effective liaison with the administration of Portage College on behalf of the students. SAPC Contact General Manager 780-623-5609 sa.manager@portagecollegeca Cold Lake 780-639-7118 St. Paul 780-614-6335 Email sa@portagecollege.ca Lac La Biche 780-623-5502 @mysapc Student Ambassadors Sign up as a Portage College Student Ambassador for your chance to help your College and meet new people, all while developing your interpersonal skills. You’ll be able to apply for bursaries available to ambassadors, receive a referral letter, a certificate and College swag as a thank you. Alumni Association We take pride in the fact that several of our students today are previous Portage College attendees and graduates. You may already be an alumni member! Why should I sign up? The simple enrollment form allows us to stay in contact with

you and provide you with information about future College events. By signing up, youre letting us know that you want to be a part of our Portage College Community. Becoming an alumni member is free, and you will receive several great benefits! If this is your first time at Portage College, dont forget to sign up before your program ends. Once a Voyageur, always a Voyageur! Phone: 780-623-5551 Email: alumni@portagecollege.ca 20 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW COVID-19: Returning to Campus As we gradually begin to return to campus to study and work, our number one priority is the health and safety of our College communityour students, our employees and everyone else who visits our campuses. Safety is paramount, and we all play a role in keeping each other safe. This section outlines what you need to know before arriving on campus and expectations to follow once there. How COVID-19 Spreads Alberta Health Services (AHS) advises that COVID-19 is spread through tiny droplets of liquid produced by

people who have the virus (coughing, sneezing, talking, laughing, singing, etc.) It is spread by touching objects or surfaces the virus has landed on and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. It is not airborne AHS believes the virus generally only survives for a few hours on a surface or object. However, it is possible for the virus to survive several days under some conditions. Safety Measures on Campus • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds using soap and running water. Use hand sanitizer as well Hand sanitizer stations are provided throughout our campuses. Good hygiene also means to avoid touching your face with unwashed hands and covering coughs and sneezes into your elbow or a tissue. • Social distancing: Keep a distance of at least 6 feet (2 metres) from others at all times while on campus. This is important when you are in classrooms, labs, washrooms, the Bookstore, Student Services or other reception areas. The College has removed

some IT equipment and furnishings, such as tables, chairs, sofas and computers in an effort to reduce unnecessary gatherings 21 and to ensure social distancing is possible. While on campus, you will notice two types of floor markings to help with social distance: traffic flow arrows and social distancing graphics. The purple circles with a white arrow guide the flow of foot traffic to avoid congestion and maintain social distancing. The flow of foot traffic in College buildings should follow the same flow as vehicle traffic wouldalways stay to the right and please don’t stop and create congestion. These purple circles are placed in areas where queues are likely to occur, such as Student Services counters, the Bookstore and Student Housing. These circles are to remind people to stay six feet apart. • Wear a mask: There are some areas, such as labs and other practical experience spaces, where social distancing may not be possible. In these situations, you will need to wear a

non-medical mask when you are unable to maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet (2 metres) from others. Your instructor will provide you with a disposable mask when required; however, you may want to consider purchasing your own resuable mask to have on campus. • Enhanced cleaning: Our campuses are following enhanced cleaning and disinfecting procedures, particularly of high touchpoints and communal surfaces, in public areas and in washrooms. However, this doesn’t guarantee that a surface has been cleaned between you and the last user. Avoid sharing materials and equipment with others. Be aware of the surfaces you touch and avoid touching your face without first washing your hands. Please do your part to keep our campuses clean and ensure the safety of everyone on campus. 22 • Know when to stay home: To ensure everyone’s health and safety and to comply with provincial legislation, you are not permitted on campus if you: – Have symptoms of COVID-19, – Have

travelled outside of the country in the last 14 days; or – Have had close contact with a person confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19. Don’t leave your home if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 (you are required by law to stay home). If you start to get sick on campus, go home or go to your residence. You must isolate for a minimum of 10 days or until your symptoms resolvewhichever is greater. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose and sore throat. Visit albertaca/covid19 for a full list of symptoms. If you have travelled outside of Canada or if you have had close contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19, you must wait 14 days before coming to campus. If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 during that time, you must continue to isolate for a minimum of 10 days from the onset of symptoms or until your symptoms resolvewhichever is greater. What if I have to isolate? If you have symptoms of COVID-19, have travelled outside of Canada or have had

close contact with a person confirmed or suspected to have COVID-19, follow these five steps: 1 Isolate yourself immediately and follow AHS mandatory self-isolation requirements: – Minimum 10 days from start of symptoms or until symptoms resolve whichever is greater – 14 days after returning to Alberta from travelling outside of Canada – 14 days if you have had close contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 2 3 Notify your program coordinator. If you live on campus in Student Residence, you must notify Campus Security at 780-623-5587. Campus Security is available 24/7. Take the Alberta Health Services COVID-19 self-assessment tool. If you suspect you have COVID-19, you will be directed to book an appointment for testing. 23 4 5 Continue to follow all AHS requirements while waiting to be tested and while waiting for your results. If you test positive for COVID-19, report it immediately to your program coordinator. You are also required to continue your

isolation period (minimum 10 days or until symptoms resolvewhichever is greater). If you test negative for COVID-19, you must stay home until your symptoms resolve so that you don’t infect others, causing them to have to isolate. Other Safety Measures • Download Portage Alert: Portage Alert is the College’s official emergency notification app. The app houses our emergency plans, which are important for you to know, and it also allows us to send you notifications about emergencies on campus, including updates on COVID-19. Download the app on the App Store and Google Play. • Daily screening: – Sign in when you arrive on campus During the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important for us to know who is on campus each day to help with contact tracing in the event that someone tests positive for COVID-19. You can conveniently sign in using the Portage Alert app. Your instructors will also be taking daily attendance – Screening questions Each day you are on campus, you will be required

to answer three screening questions. 1. In the past 14 days, did you travel outside of Canada? 2. In the past 14 days, did you have close contact with a person confirmed as having COVID-19 or being tested for COVID-19? 3. In the past 10 days, have you experienced any symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, sore throat or runny nose? If you answer "Yes" to any of the questions, you are not permitted on campus. Please follow the steps outlined in this section if you have to isolate. 24 Safety on Campus The health and safety of our students is a key priority. We must ensure we respond quickly and effectively to any threats of violence, as individuals who exhibit concerning or threatening behaviours often need help. If you witness threatening or inappropriate behaviour, it’s important to know where to report incidents. We need your help in spotting the possible warning signs so you can get help for a student, employee or

visitor before an active threat occurs. Identifying a Person at Risk What are the signs? Behavioural changes are commonly associated with persons at risk. The following examples are possible warning signs: • Demeanour change • Outbursts or disruptive behaviour • Poor hygiene • Substance abuse • Absences • Inappropriate/misuse of social media • Lowered level of academic commitment • Isolation • Prolonged depression or sadness • Erratic moodiness • Paranoia • Blaming others for problems Active Threats The College defines an active threat on campus as a violent incident involving weapons or other dangerous behaviours that pose an imminent threat or danger to the campus community. It is critical that you take immediate action to ensure your health and safety. Upon notification of an active threat, the College shall enact a Lock Down (Secure Shelter Situation) in order to limit access to the threat, as well as preventing others from entering the area of risk so

people are not placed in harms way. At certain locations, this feature is automated and doors shall lock upon notification via public address (Cold Lake, Lac La Biche and St. Paul campuses) Other locations may use phone or verbal means depending on size of location. Doors may be locked manually if safe to do so. 25 Response What should I do? • Follow Lockdown protocols • Seek secure shelter, lock doors, turn off lights • Stay out of view • Remain calm and quiet • Warn and assist others in seeking shelter • Call 911 and/or Campus Security and follow their direction • Be aware of surroundings • Take mental notes (e.g what did you see, hear, location, description of person of interest, etc.) • Relay any pertinent information to the police • If fire alarm sounds during a lock down do not respond unless you have first hand knowledge of a fire • Do not respond to anyone at the door. Campus Security, police or emergency responders will open the door when safe to do

so • Follow police instructions, keep hands out in the open (do not run towards them unless instructed to do so) • If placed in position of imminent harm, take steps to protect yourself. Be aggressive and commit to your actions. If possible create/keep a barrier between you and your attacker. Emergency Preparedness • Download our emergency app, Portage Alert. The app features emergency contacts, crisis alerts, location services features, in-app tip reporting and more • Review/learn emergency response procedures, responders and muster points • Identify/recognize inappropriate behaviours and warning signs • Report concerns to Campus Security and Counselling Services Report a Concern Portage College cares about the health and safety of our students and campus communities. If a student, staff, instructor or visitor to the College behaves in a way that is concerning, threatening or poses the potential for violence, please report such behaviours by: • Speaking with your

instructor • Calling Campus Security: 780-623-5587 • Calling a counsellor: 780-623-5551 (ask for your campus counsellor) In case of emergency or imminent threat, dial 911. 26 Sexual Violence Prevention The health and safety of our students is a key priority. We must ensure we respond quickly and effectively to any threats of violence, as individuals who exhibit concerning or threatening behaviours often need help. If you witness threatening or inappropriate behaviour, it’s important to know where to report incidents. We need your help in spotting the possible warning signs so you can get help for a student, employee or visitor before an active threat occurs. If You Have Experienced Sexual Violence If you have experienced sexual violence, call Campus Security at 780-623-5587 or toll-free 1-866-623-5551 ext. 5587, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, to assist you by providing the resources and support you need. It is often difficult to disclose and report

incidents of sexual violence. It is entirely up to you if you choose to report the incident; however, we strongly encourage you to do so. A number of other resources are available to you, information about these resources is available on the College website. 27 Anyone who has experienced sexual violence has the right to: • be believed, • be treated with dignity and respect, • be informed about on- and off-campus services and resources, • decide whether or not to access available services and to choose those services they feel will be most beneficial, • decide whether to report to campus security and/or local police, • have an on-campus investigation with the institution’s full cooperation, • have a safety plan, and • have reasonable and necessary actions taken to prevent further unwanted contact with the alleged perpetrator(s). If You Would Like to File a Formal Complaint The security contact listed above can also assist you with filing a complaint, or: •

Individuals either directly or indirectly employed by the College, volunteers or visitors may contact Human Resources to file a complaint • For students or student visitors, complaints may be filed with Portage College Counselling Services Individuals who have experienced sexual assault may also wish to press charges under the Criminal Code of Canada. Security staff can also assist you with contacting the local police. What To Do if You Witnessed Sexual Violence If you witness sexual violence, please call Campus Security at 780-623-5587 or toll free 1-866-623-5551 ext. 5587, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, to assist you by providing all the resources and necessary support. You can also use the College website. If an employee becomes aware of an allegation of sexual violence against another member of the College community, the employee is required to immediately report the alleged incident to Human Resources or Campus Security. What To Do if Someone Discloses

Allegations of Sexual Violence A person may choose to confide in someone about an act of sexual violence, such as a student, instructor, teaching assistant, coach or staff from residence, health, counselling or security. An individual who has experienced sexual violence may also disclose to an employee when seeking support and/or academic accommodation. A supportive response involves: • listening without judgment and accepting the disclosure as true; • communicating that sexual violence is never the responsibility of the survivor; • helping the individual identify and/or access available on or off-campus services, including emergency medical care and counselling; 28 • respecting the individuals right to choose the services they feel are most appropriate and to decide whether to report to the police and/or Campus Security at 780-623-5587 or toll free 1-866-623-5551 ext. 5587 which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year; • recognizing that disclosing can

be traumatic and an individual’s ability to recall the events may be limited; • respecting the individual’s choices as to what and how much they disclose about their experience; and • making every effort to respect confidentiality and anonymity. If disclosure is made to an employee by a student seeking support or academic accommodation, the employee should refer the student to the College Counselling Services and work with the counsellor to ensure that the student receives all necessary accommodations. As indicated above, if an employee of the College becomes aware of an allegation of sexual violence against another member of the College community, the employee is required to report the alleged incident to Human Resources immediately. Communication with Individuals who have Experienced Sexual Violence Sensitive and timely communication with individuals who have experienced sexual violence and their family members (when an individual consents to this communication) is a central

part of the College’s first response to sexual violence. To facilitate communication, the College will: • ensure that designated employees in Human Resources, Counselling Services and Campus Security are knowledgeable about sexual violence, are responsible for advocacy on Campus on behalf of employees, students or any other member of the College community who have experienced sexual violence; • ensure designated employees respond in a prompt, compassionate and personalized fashion; and • ensure that the person who has experienced sexual violence and the respondent are provided with reasonable updates about the status of the College’s investigation of the incident when such investigations are undertaken. Roles and Responsibilities of the College Community While everyone on Campus has a role to play in responding to incidents of sexual violence, some College community members will have specific responsibilities which might include: • on-campus supports to provide

psychological and emotional support, assist with safety planning and make referrals to other services, including medical services; • employees to facilitate academic accommodations and other academic needs of those who have experienced sexual violence (e.g extensions on assignments, continuing studies from home and dropping courses); • residence and campus security staff to facilitate safe living arrangements to the best of their abilities where applicable; 29 • human resources to assist with any incidents relating to employees; and • campus security to assist with investigations and gathering evidence to implement measures to reduce sexual violence on campus, and to collaborate with local police where appropriate. Information about these resources is available on the College website. How will the College respond to a report of sexual violence? Where a complaint of sexual violence has been reported to the College, the College will exercise care to protect and respect

the rights of both the complainant and the respondent. The College understands that individuals who have experienced sexual violence may wish to control whether and how their experience will be dealt with by the police (and/or other applicable agencies) and/or the College. In most circumstances, the person will retain this control. However, in certain circumstances, the College may be required to initiate an internal investigation and/or inform the police (and/or other applicable agencies) of the need for a criminal investigation, even without the person’s consent, if the College believes that the safety of other members of the College community is at risk, or as otherwise required by law. The confidentiality and anonymity of the person(s) affected will be prioritized in these circumstances. A report of sexual assault, stalking or other act constituting a criminal offence may need to be reported to the police as required by law. Where the Respondent is a Student Sexual violence is a

violation of the Student Code of Conduct. It is considered a serious offence and will be addressed in a manner which is consistent with other serious offences. Students who have experienced sexual violence will be advised to contact a sexual assault centre. Where the Respondent is an Employee Sexual violence is a violation of Workplace Violence and Workplace Harassment, Discrimination, and Bullying Policies. Allegations of sexual violence against employees will be addressed in accordance with the procedures set out in these guidelines/procedures, and in any applicable collective agreement, and/or other College policies. Employees who have experienced sexual violence will be advised to consult a health professional of the Employee’s choice for treatment or referral if the employee (a) reports an injury or adverse symptom resulting from workplace violence, or (b) is exposed to workplace violence. Where the Respondent is not a Student or an Employee Contractors, suppliers, volunteers or

visitors who are on campus will be subject to complaints if they engage. Where a complaint against the respondent is substantiated, the College will take appropriate action. 30 All contractual relationships entered into by the College will be governed by a standard contract compliance clause stating that contractors must comply with these guidelines/procedures and the Alberta Human Rights Act, including co-operating in investigations. Breach of the clause may result in penalties, cancellation, or other sanctions. Multiple Proceedings Where criminal, civil and/or other legal proceedings are commenced in respect of the allegations of sexual violence, the College shall conduct its own independent investigation into such allegations, and will make its own determination in accordance with its policies and procedures. Where there is an ongoing criminal (or other agency) investigation, the College will cooperate as required. SEXUAL ASSAULT CENTRES AND SUPPORT RESOURCES (ALBERTA) Region

Sexual Assault Centre 24-Hour Crisis Line Office Phone 1-866-403-8000 (call or text) All regions Alberta One-Line Banff Sexual Violence Response Program ywcabanff.ca/programs-servicChies/ bow-valley-harmony-project/ 403-760-3200 Calgary Calgary Sexual Assault Response Team albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/ Service.aspx?id=1962 403-955-6030 Cold Lake Dr. Margaret Savage Crisis Centre Helpline Toll-free: 1-866-594-0533 or 780-594-3353 780-594-5095 Cold Lake Mental Health Services 1-877-303-2642 780-639-4922 Cold Lake Victim Services Edmonton Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton https://www.saceabca/ Edmonton U of A Sexual Assault Centre Fort McMurray Waypoints: Sexual Assault Program http://www.fmmfcscom/ Frog Lake Morning Sky Health and Wellness Society Lac La Biche Hope Haven Womens Shelter 780-594-3302 ext. 3 1-780-423-4121 780-423-4102 780-492-9771 1-780-791-6708 587-537-8903 780-943-3777 (ask to speak to a counsellor) Toll-free: 1-866-727-4673 or

780-623-3100 Text: 1-780-906-3419 780-623-3100 31 SEXUAL ASSAULT CENTRES AND SUPPORT RESOURCES (ALBERTA) Region Sexual Assault Centre Lac La Biche Mental Health Services Lac La Biche Victim Services Lethbridge Chinook Sexual Assault Centre https://csacleth.ca/ Lloydminster Lloydminster Sexual Assault Services http://www.lloydminstersexualassault com/ Medicine Hat Southeastern Alberta Sexual Assault Response Committee http://www.mhsarccom/ Northeast Region Dragonfly Counselling and Support Centre https://thedragonflycentre.com/ Portage College campuses Portage College Counselling Services Red Deer Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre http://www.casascca/ 24-Hour Crisis Line Office Phone 1-877-303-2642 780-623-5230 911 780-623-7770 1-844-576-2512 403-694-1094 1-306-825-8255 403-548-2717 Text: 780-207-7535 (business hours) 780-812-3174 1-866-623-5551 (ask for counselling services) Call or text: 1-866-956-1099 403-340-1124 Toll free:

1-866-726-3660 or 780-726-3661 Saddle Lake Health and Wellness Centre Sherwood Park Saffron Centre http://saffroncentre.com/ Call or text: 1-866-956-1099 780-449-0900 St. Paul Capella Centre/Columbus House of Hope 1-800-263-3045 Text: 780-227-6272 780-645-5132 St. Paul Mental Health Services 1-877-303-2642 780-645-1850 St. Paul Victim Services 911 780-645-8858 Stettler Association for Communities Against Abuse https://www.acaahelpsca/ 32 Toll-free: 1-866-807-3558 or 403-742-3558 Smudging What is smudging? Smudging is a healing and cleansing ceremony practiced by First Nations and Métis peoples. Sacred medicine(s) are burnt to purify space, items or people Smudging may be done to people, items (e.g drums/regalia) and locations (e.g room/area) Participation is voluntary; viewers may step back, remain seated or exit if they do not wish to participate. What happens during a ceremony? One or more sacred medicines are burned on a natural vessel (e.g clay bowl,

abalone shell, etc.) The smoke is pulled back onto the person, item or space using an eagle feather or hands. Why are smudging ceremonies held? • To host an Indigenous community event, meeting, invitation of an Elder(s) or Indigenous artist • To bring a feeling of grounding, direction and connection • To help create a positive mindset • To cleanse/purify a person, place or object of negative energies, feelings or thoughts • To connect with culture Guidelines The College recognizes that smudging, the use of tobacco and other medicines are part of the Indigenous traditional way of life and is a respected practice on campus in appropriate spaces. If a smudge is in a designated area, the individual or organizer is responsible for ensuring the ceremony is conducted safely. For smudging in a non-designated area, please contact the Registrar. If you would like to take part in a smudging ceremony or would like more information, contact the Cultural and Community Facilitator.

Phone: 780-623-5584 33 Guidelines, Policies and Agreements Please be advised that this student handbook outlines College rules and regulations based on registered students being 18 years of age or older. It is the student’s responsibility to follow provincial regulations and bylaws. Failure to do so will result in penalties as determined by the provincial regulation and/or bylaw. All students who are less than 18 years of age must adhere to all standard provincial regulations and bylaws. For example, underage smoking and drinking is not allowed at anytime, anywhere on College property. Academic Dishonesty Assignment Integrity Students will risk an accusation of academic dishonesty if they do any of the following: • Fabrication: falsifying data, information or citations in academic assignments • Deception: providing false information to an instructor concerning an academic assignment (e.g giving a false excuse for missing a deadline, falsely claiming to have submitted work or

falsely submitting someone else’s work as their own) • Bribery: giving assignment answers or test with or without payment • Impersonation: assuming a student’s identity with the intent to advantage the student • Sabotage: intentionally interfering to prevent others from completing their work (e.g intentionally disrupting experiments of others, cutting pages out of library books) • Violation of assignment protocol (e.g re-submitting a previous assignment after being instructed not to) Students will be held accountable for any form of academic dishonesty, and incidents will be dealt with by program coordinators. Exam Integrity Students will risk an accusation of academic dishonesty if they cheat on an exam or display any behaviour that deviates from instructions on an exam sheet. Cheating can take the form of crib notes, use of technology or any items when prohibited, using or sharing answers from a classmate’s exam or any forbidden sharing of information between students

that violates the established rules governing the administration of the exam. Plagiarism The Canadian Oxford English Dictionary defines “plagiarize” in the following way: “1. Take and use (the thoughts, writings, inventions, etc of another person) as one’s own; 2. Pass off the thoughts etc of (another person) as one’s own” 34 Students will risk an accusation of plagiarism and/or self plagiarism if they do any of the following: • Use words written by another person as if they were their own without providing appropriate documentation and/or citation. • Use, in whole or in part, re-stated or verbatim, of any words or ideas, clever or astute phrase written by someone else without acknowledging and referencing that source. • Reproduce the substance or structure of another person’s work or argument without providing appropriate documentation or citation. • Submit the same assignment or partial assignment to two instructors without written permission from

both instructors and without proper referencing. • Download work from any source,whether it be the Internet, a database, a catalogue, other electronic form of storage or retrieval, print-based, lecture, television or radio transmission, film or streaming video without acknowledging and referencing that source. Instructors can investigate any essay or assignment they suspect might contain plagiarized material using any of the resources available at the College including plagiarism detection software, and may engage the assistance of other faculty members or administrators in their investigation. Accommodation of Student Religious Observance Portage College recognizes that a student’s religious observance may require an absence from required course activity as scheduled in the course outline or course activities scheduled after the first day of class or from an examination scheduled later in the term. The sincerity of a student’s religious belief is accepted at face value and

will be respected, though accommodation of all requests may not be possible in every circumstance. Students should notify their instructor or program coordinator in writing as soon as possible in advance of the required day(s) of observance, based on the following expectations: • For required activities scheduled in the course outline (including practicums), available and/or distributed by the first class request will be made within the first week of classes; • For required activities scheduled after the course outline is distributed request will be made within five (5) business days of the distribution of the schedule; and • For an examination requests will be made within five (5) business days of the publication of the examination schedule The instructor and the student will consult to reach agreement on a reasonable accommodation. When making arrangements, the Instructor and the student must ensure that academic progress is not negatively impacted and academic

obligations can be met. 35 Advanced or Transfer Credit Portage College will consider granting advanced course credit to students who have successfully completed recognized course work at a post-secondary institution, or who can demonstrate learning based on information educational experiences. Requests for advanced course credit or assessment of prior learning should be made in writing to the registrar and must be accompanied by official transcripts or appropriate documentation when applying to the College. Fees for this service vary Since tuition fees are assessed by program, students will not be refunded fees for courses for which they have received advanced or transfer credit. Contact the Registrar’s Office at 780-623-5551 for more information. Cell Phone Use Rules on cell phone use in class vary from program to program. Please familiarize yourself with your program’s guidelines and be respectful of them. Certification with Distinction Students completing career programs

with distinction will receive their certification marked “With Distinction” and the official transcript will indicate “Passed with Distinction”. Certification with Distinction is awarded to those students in Career programs who achieve a program cumulative grade point average of 3.7 or higher with no course grades below 3.0 Deans Honour Roll Students completing programs with honours will receive certification marked “with honours” and the official transcript will indicate “parchment granted with honours”. Certification with Honours is awarded to students who achieve a program cumulative grade point average of 3.3 or greater (or a weighted average of 80% or greater). Changing Courses Course additions after 10% of the course length will normally not be allowed. Changes in enrolment (drops or withdrawals) prior to 10% of the course length will have no record of the course enrolment on the transcript. In order to change courses, a student, in consultation with his/her

Program Coordinator and Student Advisor, must complete a “Course Change/Student Withdrawal” form and submit it to the Registrar’s Office. Cold/Inclement Weather College campuses will remain open and classes will run during cold/inclement weather in accordance with the standard hours of operation unless closure is declared by the president. The College will only be closed in the event of a public 36 safety/health matter. Students are encouraged to use judgment to ensure safety during cold/inclement weather. Completion Timelines Students must complete the requirements for graduation within three (3) years of commencing a certificate program and within five (5) academic years of commencing a diploma program. Exceptions for career program completion may be granted by the Program Coordinator on a case-by-case basis. A re-assessment of competency skills may be required in these cases. Computer Use Students are encouraged to make full use of computer equipment in teaching labs,

classrooms, campus libraries, and public areas. Students are expected to use privileges responsibly to maintain a safe, healthy and comfortable environment for everyone. Students accept a computer use agreement prior to being granted access Any misconduct regarding computer use will be treated as misconduct. Course Withdrawal A student withdrawal up to and including 10% of the course length will result in no record of the course enrolment on the transcript. A withdrawal greater than 10% but less than or equal to 95% of the course length will result in “W” (withdrawal) grade on the transcript. Criminal Record/Background Check Certain programs offered by the College include placements or work experience for students. This learning takes place within community institutions, agencies or health regions. Many of these organizations, either for statutory reasons (e.g Protection of Persons in Care Act) or for policy reasons, require criminal record or other background checks for students

who will have access to their clients and place of business. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain, at the student’s expense, the necessary checks and provide the document(s) to a student advisor prior to registration. Any information received by the College will be protected from disclosure in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Privacy Protection Act. Criminal record checks are usually obtained from the local police agency where the student normally resides. It is the decision of each agency designated as a placement site to accept or reject a student for placement based upon the results of a criminal record and/or other background check. The College will not be responsible for providing an alternate placement location. Since both completion of program requirements and eventual employment in the field of study may be dependent upon results of criminal record and/or other background checks, the College is not responsible for students with unclear records, if

they are unable to complete program requirements, obtain employment, obtain professional licensing or become members of professional associations. Students who have concerns should discuss the matter with a student advisor. 37 Discrimination and Harassment Portage College is committed to providing its students and employees a learning and work environment that ensures an atmosphere of mutual respect. Harassment is any unwelcome and unwanted behaviour that degrades, demeans, humiliates, excludes, isolates or embarrasses a person or group that a reasonable person would have known to be unwelcome and unwanted. It does not matter whether the harasser intended to offend the other person. Harassing behaviours may include: malicious or intimidating gestures or actions, threats, bullying, coercion, verbal assault, taunting or ostracizing, threatened or actual physical assault, insults, derogatory comments, rudeness, gossip and slander. It may be a single significant incident or it may be

a series or pattern of behaviours persisting over time. Examples of harassment include: written or verbal abuse or threats; displays of racist or other offensive or derogatory materials; practical jokes that embarrass or insult someone; bullying; offensive gestures; unwelcome physical contact; intimidating, patronizing or condescending behavior; humiliating an individual in front of co-workers or their peers; vandalism of personal property; physical assault; and the use of electronic methods including texting, blogging or use of social networks in a derogatory manner. When a student experiences harassment, it is important to: • Identify this to the person who is committing the unwanted behaviour. They may not realize their behaviour is a problem, and they need to be informed that it is unwanted and inappropriate. • Report the concern to the Vice President of Student Services, an instructor, coordinator, or counsellor (whoever you feel comfortable with). • Portage College is

committed to prompt action to protect the rights of students and staff, as harassing behaviour is absolutely not acceptable. Financial Obligations All financial obligations to the College must be met before transcripts will be released to the student or third party. The College may withhold services to students who have outstanding accounts. Tuition refunds are calculated on the basis of the official date of withdrawal from Portage College. Universal/instructional fees (tuition and technology fee): • For a non-registered student (no show) full refund. • When the College cancels an offering full refund. • Within the first 8 calendar days of the program/course start date full refund. • Student attends up to 20% of the course or program 75% refund. • Student attends over 20% of course or program no refund. • Refunds to Advanced Education for Alberta Supports (formerly Alberta Works) program are in accordance with College Policy. 38 Apprenticeship and oversubscribed

programs: • Tuition deposit is non-refundable. • Cancel one business day or more before tuition deposit due date full refund. • Less than one business day cancellation or no show no refund. Continuing Education courses and programs: • No refund is issued beyond the course cancellation or registration date, as advertised by the College unless the offering is cancelled by the College. Universal non-instructional support fees: • For recreation and comprehensive fees a non-registered student (no show) full refund. • When the College cancels an offering full refund. • Within the first 8 calendar days of the program/course start date full refund. • After 8 calendar days no refund. Application fee: • Once a student is past the "Applied" state in our Student Records system, no refunds are given. Fees for other services offered at the College (such as books and housing) are based on student utilization, and refunds vary depending on service and circumstance.

Grading System The 4.0 Letter Grading Scale is used for career programs (University Studies, Pre-Hospital and Health, Business, Human Services, Native Arts and Culture, and Technical programs). Academics for Careers and Education, and Apprenticeship Trades programs use a Numeric Grading Scale. The Numeric Scale is based on percentage Grades are shown by percentage (e.g 75%) Additional course grading codes as defined below may be assigned in place of the letter or numeric mark. "AU" Audit The grade assigned when a student has attended and participated in a class, but has not been evaluated in any way. A grade of “AU” is not used in calculating a grade point average. "CR" Advanced Standing Credit The grade assigned when the course requirements have been completed through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition. “CR” is not an acceptable letter code for university transfer courses. A grade of “CR” is not used in calculating a grade point average.

"IN" Incomplete A temporary grade assigned when a student fails to finish a course by the course’s 39 normal completion date. After 30 days (90 days for practicum courses), “IN” is replaced by the grade earned, or by an “F”. A grade of “IN” is not used in calculating a grade point average. "IP" In Progress The grade assigned to indicate that the course is not officially over when the transcript is prepared. After the prescribed end date of the program, “IP” is replaced by the grade earned or appropriate code. A grade of “IP” is not used in calculating a grade point average. "W" Withdrawal Withdrawal after 10% of the course length, and up to and including the 95% point, will result in the course being shown as “W” (withdrawal) on the transcript. "P" Pass In approved courses where a pass/fail grading system is justified, Pass may be used. A grade of “P” is not used in calculating a grade point average "F"

Failure In approved courses where a pass/fail grading system is justified, Failure may be used. A grade of “F*” is not used in calculating a grade point average. In approved courses with letter grade when an “F” is received a grade point of zero (0.0) is used in the grade point average calculation. "COM" Complete In approved courses where a complete/incomplete grading system is justified, complete may be used. A grade of “COM” is not used in calculating a grade point average. "I" Incomplete In approved courses where a complete/incomplete grading system is justified, incomplete may be used. A grade of “I” is not used in calculating a grade point average. "RW" Required to Withdraw Suspension from a course. No credit earned A grade of “RW” is used in calculating a grade point average with a point weighting of zero (0.0) "RWA" Required to Withdraw Suspension from a course due to academic offense. No credit earned A grade of

“RWA” is used in calculating a grade point average with a point weighting of zero (0.0) Students will be informed, in writing, of the specific grading scale(s) used in a program and the progression/passing standards of their program. 40 Grade Point Average (GPA) The grade point average (GPA) measure achievement in credit courses, and is calculated as follows: GPA = Total Grade Points ÷ Total Credits Each course is assigned a credit value based on the course hours. Step 1: Multiply the number of credits by the grade points received for each course. Step 2: Total the grade point value for each course. Step 3: Divide the total grade point value by the total number of credits. Repeated Courses Credit for highest grade is calculated in the cumulative grade point average. Supplemental Grades Grade on supplemental is awarded, indicated on transcript and included in the grade point average. Challenge Grades Grade on challenge is awarded, indicated on transcript and included in the

grade point average. Misconduct/Discipline Each student, through the process of application and registration with the College, agrees to abide by the policies, guidelines and regulations of the College with regard to his/her academic and non-academic conduct. Students are expected to familiarize themselves with all matters relating to the College’s standards of conduct. Academic Misconduct Academic Misconduct is defined as “any improper behaviours/attitude affecting a student’s continuing participation in a program of study” displayed in the classroom environment (virtual or face-to-face), while on field placement or work experience arrangements, or during any College function. It includes, but is not limited to, the following: • Interfering with the studies or other legitimate activities of students or staff (such interference may include acts of harassment or discrimination towards students, staff or patrons of Portage College); • Unethical, illicit, indecent or otherwise

inappropriate use of computer and internal resources; • Cheating, plagiarism, fraud, deceit or other forms of academic dishonesty; and • Failing to maintain acceptable progress in the program of studies (e.g inability to complete assignments within the required time lines, placement difficulties). Breaches in academic conduct may result in disciplinary action. A substantial breach of academic conduct is any behaviour that intentionally or unintentionally 41 jeopardizes the integrity of academic endeavor, or creates a safety hazard, or threatens or endangers the student or others. Such conduct may result in immediate suspension and/or withdrawal from the College programs. Non-Academic Misconduct Non Academic Misconduct is defined as “any improper behaviour not normally associated with the student’s academic endeavors, occurring on College property or at a College sponsored event”, and includes but is not limited to: • Subjecting any staff member, student or other

person to abusive language, physical danger or threat; • Acts of discrimination or harassment towards other students, staff or patrons of Portage College; • Removing College property without authorization or willfully damaging College property; • Neglecting safety procedures /practices, or creating safety hazards; • Intoxication from or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs; • Engaging in illegal activities of any nature on College property; • Failing to settle outstanding fees or accounts; and • Failing to abide by the established rules of service providers (e.g Housing, property owners of buildings or space leased by the College). A substantial breach of conduct is defined as: “any behaviour which creates a safety hazard, or threatens or endangers other persons and takes place on College property.” In cases of substantial breach of conduct, the offender may be immediately suspended/withdrawn from the program of studies, removed from College property or other

sanctions as deemed appropriate to the severity of the misconduct, and may include withdrawal of services. All other disciplinary action protocols may be waived. Name or Address Change Because of the need for the College staff to communicate with students on a wide variety of matters, every student should ensure that his/her address, telephone number and email are up-to-date. Any changes in these must be reported immediately to the Program Coordinator or the Registrar’s Office. Change of address, telephone number, or email as an excuse for not receiving communications is unacceptable to the College. Online Social Networking Students have rights and responsibilities associated with any form of communication or interaction, online or offline. Although cyberspace seems impersonal, students are still responsible for treating others with respect and decency. Facebook policy itself bars posting “harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, vulgar, obscene, hateful or racially, ethnically,

or otherwise objectionable” material 42 on the site (view the Facebook Community Standards at https://www.facebookcom/ communitystandards). Any inappropriate conduct on social media will be considered misconduct. Program Withdrawal Should a student decide to withdraw from a program for any reason whatsoever, the student must notify the Instructor, Program Coordinator, Advisor, or Counsellor. Failure to complete the clearance procedure or return books and materials can result in the withholding of the transcript, certificate, and/or diploma. Depending upon when the student withdraws, grades of “W” (withdrawal) may be assigned in the courses, and a refund may apply. A student may be required to withdraw by the College due to lack of student achievement, unacceptable conduct and/or poor attendance. A student who is required to withdraw has the option of appealing this decision. Notice to Appeal forms are available from the Registrar’s Office or Counselling. Progression

Progression to the next semester or year of study is dependent upon demonstrating acceptable achievement. Each program area determines acceptable achievement and progression requirements. Students are informed, in writing, of specific mark scale(s) and progression/passing standards by the Program Coordinator during student orientation. If you have questions, please contact the Program Coordinator or a Student Advisor. Release of Transcripts The Registrar’s Office will release official transcripts only upon request by the student. Students are required to sign a Transcript Request Form and pay $10 per copy requested before transcripts will be issued. Current students are not required to pay the fee. The Transcript Request Form is available on the College website Requirements for Certification Each program outlines the requirements for certification and all students will be advised of the requirements at the start of the program. Students must complete all requirements to obtain a

certificate or diploma. Residency Requirements There is normally a 25% residency requirement. The registrar will determine the condition of any student’s admission/readmission and the advanced credit or transfer credit to be granted ensuring that the integrity of the College’s program and certification processes are maintained. Return of Materials Any Portage College property such as library books, classroom materials, recreation equipment, shop equipment, and smocks must be returned to the College upon termination or completion of a program. If the loaned material is lost or not returned, the student will be charged for the cost of the material. 43 Smoking Portage College promotes a healthy learning environment. All Portage College campuses are smoke free environments. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas Cannabis Use Students are responsible to ensure they are fit to learn. Any impairment and/or inappropriate conduct will be addressed through the college’s Student

Misconduct Guidelines. Impairment can be under the influence of alcohol, cannabis or any other substances. Be aware of workplace and practicum drug policies. Smoke can impact the healthy environment and safety of others. Impairment can impact the healthy environment, the safety of others as well as one’s success. Community standards will respect the rights of all of us and one individual’s or group’s decision should not interfere with the rights of others. Each campus in different communities have differing bylaws and legislation that can apply. Before using cannabis at any location please ensure you are following all Portage College guidelines, county or city bylaws, and federal legislation. Student Achievement • Students will receive regular evaluations of their academic progress from course instructors. • Students will be informed, at the beginning of the course, of the evaluation practices that apply to the course. • Students can expect that results of marked/graded

work will be returned to them promptly. • Although not all course work must necessarily be returned to students, student access and review of results will be assured for a period of 90 days from course completion date. • Evaluations will give consideration to all aspects of the learning process, including assignments, tests, evaluations, participation, shop/lab work, reports, projects, and work placements, as are appropriate to the course. • Evaluation results will be recorded on progress reports. Progress reports may be discussed with the student, and will normally be signed by the student. • Final grades are recorded on the progress report, indicating the grade is final. Copies of the progress reports are given to the students. • Unacceptable academic standing by a student in a program or course may result in disciplinary action. Satisfactory standing is pre-defined on a program-byprogram basis • The decision to take disciplinary action and place a student on academic

warning/probation or to dismiss the student from a program is made on a case-by-case basis considering all relevant factors. 44 Student Appeals The student has the right to appeal disciplinary action and is entitled to just and equitable treatment. Appeals are conducted to ensure that an individual’s rights are upheld within the College’s policies, guidelines and procedures. Appeals are not intended to create new guidelines or exemptions. Prior to an Appeal First, all other means of resolving the issue(s) should be taken. This includes discussion toward resolution between the student and staff member directly involved, and between the student and supervisory staff in the area of concern. Throughout this process, students and staff are encouraged to seek third party advisement, such as counsellors, to clarify issues and to help seek resolution. • “Cool down” before initiating the appeal so that you can study your rights, responsibilities and options. (See Appeal

Procedure and Student Grievance for the number of working days allowed when filing an appeal/grievance.) • You have the right to appeal even if it appears you do not have a good case. • Not every frustration of student life can or should become the object of an appeal. • Look at the weaknesses and strengths of your argument so that you can handle questions in a convincing way. • Always talk to the party who originally made the decision. • Do not use abusive language when talking about the personality or character of the group/person being challenged. It is better to avoid having to submit an appeal by developing an understanding of Portage College and departmental rules and regulations, by being aware of deadlines, and by expressing your concerns at the beginning of the semester. Appeal Procedure • If the issue remains unresolved, a student choosing to appeal should complete and deliver a Notice of Appeal form to the registrar’s office or appropriate service area

within three (3) working days of receipt of the incident. • An appellant has the right to an advocate in the appeal process. • The registrar’s office will send the student’s completed Notice of Appeal to the registrar or appropriate service area. • The registrar will collect all relevant documentation prior to the appeal and will set an Appeals Committee meeting to hear the appeal within three (3) working days, or if these time lines cannot be met the appellant will be contacted of the revised time line. • Appeals will be considered on the basis of procedural non-compliance or circumstances of the appeal by the College or it’s designate. • The registrar will subsequently forward the Committee’s decision to the registrar’s office. 45 • The registrar’s office will send written notification of the Appeal Committee’s decision within three (3) working days of receipt of the decision. • The Appeal Committee’s decision is final. Student Grievance with

Instructors and Coordinators Portage supports the principle of fostering a fair and caring environment. Examples of grievances covered under this process include fairness of evaluations, grade appeals, late assignments, classroom dynamics, course content, and deferral/ supplemental exam decisions. Students have the right to present their concerns or grievances and can have an advocate (student services staff, student association, other staff members or family /friends) to help present the grievance. • Students should first meet directly with the instructor or coordinator to attempt to resolve the concern/grievance. • If the concern/grievance remains unresolved, the student should submit a Notice of Grievance form (available in Student Service Centre) within six (6) working days of incident. • The supervisor (coordinator or dean depending on situation) will attempt to resolve the concern/grievance and provide a written recommendation to the student and the instructor (or

coordinator) within six (6) working days of receiving the Notice of Grievance. • If the concern/grievance remains unresolved, the Notice of Grievance should be submitted to the Vice President-Academic. The decision of the Vice President-Academic is final and binding on all parties. Student Progress Student progress is closely linked to student commitment and engagement with the learning process. In order for students to succeed academically and to receive the full benefit of their learning situation, students are expected to involve themselves and participate fully in the process of their educational program. It is the student’s responsibility to inform their program coordinator in advance of planned absences or in a timely manner for any unforeseen absences. Appropriate documentation regarding absences may be required. 46 1-866-623-5551 portagecollege.ca @portagecollege 48