Student Life

Programs and Services

The mission of the Division of Student Affairs is to provide comprehensive and accessible services to meet the educational needs and support the personal growth of students. Every department in Student Affairs strives to help students make responsible decisions by providing a learning environment that will help them better understand their abilities and needs and learn about the vast array of educational and occupational opportunities available to them.

Academic Advising

See Academic Advising  in Admission, Academic Advising and Registration.

Admissions and Enrollment Services

The Department of Admissions and Enrollment Services, located on the second floor of the Student Union, provides important services that assist students with their transition to college. These services include, but are not limited to, administration of the high school dual enrollment program; conducting campus tours; processing applications for admission; evaluating high school transcripts and college transcripts for transfer credit; granting permission for international students to study at the College; coordinating new student orientation, advising and registration; releasing official transcripts; and certifying graduation.

Black Male Achievers

African-American men face unique challenges as they pursue academic, career and social success. TCC’s Black Male Achievers program is designed to help students stay in college and graduate. The program provides academic and student services, along with enrichment activities, to advance the intellectual and personal growth of participants. To learn more about the program, contact the Division of Student Affairs at (850) 201-8710.

Campus and Civic Engagement

The Department of Campus and Civic Engagement provides opportunities for students to get connected with the campus community. All students can make important contributions to the enhancement of activity programs that benefit both the College and individual students.

Co-curricular activities are an important part of the total educational experience at the College. Students have the opportunity to plan and implement those activities, which complement the curricular programs of the institution. Activities currently include intramural sports, fitness gym, aerobics classes, concerts, lectures, drama, clubs, visual arts, socials, chorus, Brain Bowl, band, forensics, Model United Nations, student government, volunteerism and more.

The Campus and Civic Engagement office also sponsors the Eagle’s Nest Food Pantry, a resource available to TCC students in emergency situations. For information, contact (850) 201-8420.

Campus Recreation

Students may exercise the body as well as the mind by taking part in recreational, fitness and wellness opportunities on campus.

• Intramural Sports
  TCC offers an extensive intramural sports program. Students may participate in individual and team sports activities, including indoor and outdoor soccer, flag football, basketball, softball, volleyball, dodge ball, kickball, table tennis and ultimate frisbee.
• The Lifetime Sports Complex & Fitness Center
  The Lifetime Sports Complex houses an 812-seat arena, which is home to TCC Basketball, and a recreational gymnasium. Classes in dance, physical fitness and indoor sports are held here, as are intramural sports. A state-of-the-art fitness facility and aerobics room accommodate students, faculty and staff. Abs and spin classes are also available. The intramural sports office is also located in the Lifetime Sports Complex. Hours and rules are posted in the facility. For information, call (850) 201-8093.

Career Center

The mission of the Career Center is to enhance student success by providing comprehensive career, transfer and employment services. The staff is committed to fostering individual growth and development by assisting students with their academic, career and employment needs. Partnerships and collaborative efforts are developed with alumni, faculty, businesses, organizations, colleges and universities to help students explore career, internship, employment and transfer opportunities. The Career Center envisions career development as a lifelong process and empowers students to develop and implement a plan to achieve their short- and long-term career goals.

The Career Center houses many career-related resources. These include student, employer and job databases; resume development information; internship information; job placement assistance; and information on upcoming events like professional development workshops and job fairs. Online career assessment resources are also available to all students. Through these services, students can learn more about their aptitudes, interests, values and personality to assist in identifying career goals.

The Career Center assists students who are transitioning into the workforce and students who want to enhance their academic experience through internship opportunities. In addition, the Career Center offers assistance with resume writing, professional development, mock interviews, dress for success and individual career counseling. The Career Center is located on the second floor of the Student Union.

For information on the Career Center or to schedule an appointment, contact (850) 201-9970 or visit www.tcc.fl.edu/careercenter.

For information on the TCC Internship Program, contact (850) 201-9971 or visit www.tcc.fl.edu/internships.

For information on resume assistance and jobs, visit www.tccfuturelink.com.

Child Care Services

TCC understands the importance of providing quality child care services for its students. The Leon County Schools Early Childhood Professional Development Center (ECPDC) is available for TCC students’ children ages four weeks to five years. Program fees are based on parent/student eligibility for state-funded programs and private pay fees.

The ECPDC offers an excellent opportunity for parents to continue their education, knowing their children are well cared for while parents are at school. It is also an opportunity for parents to learn about quality child care, age-appropriate activities and their own child’s development.

The center follows the Leon County Schools’ calendar and is open Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. To enroll your child or to find out more about ECPDC, contact (850) 922-2099.

College Reach-Out Program (CROP)

The College Reach-Out Program (CROP) was created by the Florida Legislature in 1983 (s. 1007.34, F.S.). The program is designed to increase the number of low-income, educationally disadvantaged students in grades 6 through 12 who, upon high school graduation, are admitted to and successfully complete a postsecondary education.

The TCC division of CROP began in 1985. Students in CROP are exposed to a wide variety of academic, educational and counseling activities designed to supplement their education and better prepare them for postsecondary education. These activities include test-taking and study skills workshops, after-school instruction at selected middle schools, group and one-on-one academic assistance, and educational field trips. Financial aid seminars, parent workshops and student counseling are integral components of the program. In addition to the activities provided, CROP offers full prepaid Challenge (two-year) and Take Stock in Children (2+2) college tuition scholarships to eligible Leon, Gadsden and Wakulla County middle and high school students, through a partnership with the TCC Foundation. More than $3.5 million in scholarships has been awarded since 1994.

Disability Support Services

TCC is committed to making all programs, services and facilities accessible to and usable by students with disabilities. The Disability Support Services (DSS) office supports students as they strive to obtain maximum benefit from the educational experience and effectively transition to the college environment.

• How to Register with the DSS Office: To register for accommodations and learn about services available at TCC, students should make an appointment with a DSS counselor. Documentation should be provided by a medical doctor, psychologist or other licensed specialist recognized to treat the specific disability.

• Available Services: Academic advisers are available to students with disabilities. These DSS advisers act as advocates, mediate with instructors and assist students in working with local agencies. Although TCC is responsible for notifying students, faculty and staff of services available, students with disabilities are responsible for requesting services.

To ensure timely accommodations, students must request services before the beginning of each semester. Accommodations including note taking, reading, writing, interpreting, extended-time testing, an adaptive computer lab and individualized registration are available through the DSS office to qualified students.

The Adaptive Technology Computer Center and the DSS Testing Center, located in room 219 of the Fine and Performing Arts Center, are available for students with disabilities who require specialized and/or adaptive equipment. Braille printers, magnification equipment, computer software, calculators, Franklin Spellers, Dragon Naturally Speaking, JAWS and other voice-synthesized computer aids are available. The lab and testing room are essentially barrier-free.

The District Board of Trustees has established policies and procedures on reasonable substitutions to meet admission, graduation or coursework requirements for eligible students. Students seeking a substitution must first meet with a DSS representative to obtain the course substitution application. The DSS staff member will provide information on the substitution process and guide the student through the procedures for substitution approval. The proper statement of substitution will be placed on the student’s transcript at graduation. Any denial of a course substitution may be appealed by the student. Any substitution previously granted to a student by another state of Florida postsecondary institution will be recognized by TCC.

DSS services are listed in various TCC publications, including the catalog, faculty handbook, student handbook and numerous college brochures. Services are also highlighted as part of TCC’s new student orientation program and are included in TCC staff orientation sessions.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the College has designated an ADA coordinator, who oversees and coordinates the College’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities pertaining to ADA. The coordinator also serves as the contact person for all ADA policies, procedures and concerns. The ADA coordinator can be contacted at (850) 201-8430 or dss@tcc.fl.edu.

ADA Grievance Procedure

TCC has adopted an internal grievance procedure that allows for the prompt and equitable resolution of complaints that allege actions prohibited by the United States Department of Justice regulations implementing Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The purpose of the grievance procedure is to provide a means to mediate a fair and equitable solution to a complaint alleging discrimination based on disability or a violation of the rules and regulations prohibiting discrimination as outlined in the ADA.

Persons who think they have been discriminated against based on disability or that there has been a violation of ADA guidelines may contact the ADA Coordinator at (850) 201-8430 or dss@tcc.fl.edu.

For information, stop by the Disability Support Services office, located on the first floor of the Student Union, or use the following contact information: voice: (850) 201-8430; persons with hearing or speech impairments and TTY users: connect through the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 and then provide the DSS number: (850) 201-8430. E-mail: dss@tcc.fl.edu.

Educational Talent Search

Educational Talent Search (ETS) identifies low-income youth with potential for education at the postsecondary level and encourages them to complete secondary school and undertake a program of postsecondary education. It also publicizes the availability of student financial assistance to persons who pursue a program of postsecondary education. In addition, ETS encourages persons who have not completed programs of education at the secondary or postsecondary level, but who have the ability to complete such programs, to re-enter.

The services provided include academic advice and assistance in secondary school and college course selection; assistance in completing college admission and financial aid applications; assistance in preparing for college entrance examinations; personal and career counseling; tutorial services; exposure to college campuses and cultural events; exposure to academic sites or activities not usually available to disadvantaged youth; workshops and counseling for families of students served; mentoring programs; and activities designed to assist students who have limited English proficiency.

Food Services

TCC offers various dining options for its students, faculty, staff and visitors in the Student Union. There are also numerous restaurants located near TCC’s main campus.

Graduation

See Graduation  in Academic Information.

Health Services

The College provides emergency assistance to students who are injured or become ill.

Students who are injured may obtain assistance by contacting Campus Police, located in the Centre Building at (850) 201-6100.

Health education instructors can advise students with specialized health-related problems and suggest appropriate professionals and/or agencies as resources.

Health insurance is not available through the College.

The College maintains a blood bank account with the Southeastern Community Blood Center. Students, faculty and staff are given the opportunity to participate as donors several times each year. Additional information may be obtained from the Campus and Civic Engagement office in the Student Union.

The College reserves the right to take action, as it deems necessary, to protect students and employees based on the awareness of impending dangers of specific diseases or illnesses.

Housing

TCC does not provide on-campus housing; however, affordable student housing options are located within a five-minute walk of campus. For information, contact the Campus and Civic Engagement office at (850) 201-8420 or attend the College’s off-campus housing fair.

Intercollegiate Athletics

A member of the National Junior College Athletic Association, TCC’s athletic program emphasizes values such as teamwork, discipline, leadership and cooperation, which carry over into life after college. TCC offers baseball, softball, and men’s and women’s basketball. For information on TCC Athletics, visit www.TCCEagles.com.

International Student Services

The International Student Services office, as part of the Department of Admissions and Enrollment Services, provides a wide range of support services to F-1 visa international students and other foreign nationals. It also plays an important role in the globalization of the campus. This office offers the following services:

• Provides pre-admission immigration counseling
• Issues I-20s for obtaining F-1 status
• Conducts an international student orientation seminar at the beginning of each semester
• Helps students adjust to a new academic environment and culture
• Provides academic and career counseling
• Monitors student compliance with Department of Homeland Security immigration rules related to maintaining legal and valid status in the United States
• Maintains the SEVIS program
• Facilitates the SEVIS transfer to and from other schools
• Assists students with programs such as Curricular Practical Training, Optional Practical Training, work authorization, travel and re-entry, change of status and reinstatement
• Facilitates necessary intervention with U.S. embassies in foreign countries on behalf of prospective or current international students should problems arise with their visa application or renewal
• Monitors student compliance with the required international health insurance plan
• Administers and oversees the International Student Services Scholarship and the International Student Housing Scholarship Program
• Supports international partnerships with global organizations through grant opportunities that allow students to study at TCC and support student exchange
• Supports International Student Organization programs and activities
• Sponsors the celebration of International Education Week and other cultural programs on campus

To contact the International Student Services Office, call (850) 201-8258.

Library

See Library below.

Mental Health Services

It is common for students to periodically experience difficulty juggling the demands of coursework with the challenges that arise in their personal lives. Free mental health assessments, referrals and short-term counseling services are offered for students through the Department of Student Success and Retention. Students in need of these services should contact Student Support Services at (850) 201-7726 to schedule an appointment.

Mental health services are available at TCC during most regular office hours. After hours, students may call 2-1-1 or (850) 224-6333 to access the community’s free, confidential telephone counseling, crisis intervention and referrals. If you encounter a severe mental health crisis after hours, please call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance.

New Student Orientation

New Student Orientation is conducted by the Department of Admissions and Enrollment Services. During orientation, new students will learn about campus resources, meet with an academic adviser and select classes, and learn how to use TCC Passport to register for classes and pay fees. An on-campus orientation is required for all new students to TCC. Visit the orientation web page at www.tcc.fl.edu/orientation or call (850) 201-8555 for information.

One-Stop Center at the Student Union

The One-Stop Center, located in the Student Union, is an expression of the College’s student-centered vision. The Center provides a wide range of services that promote student success. Among these services are admission and enrollment information, academic advising, student activities, student conduct, career assistance, disability support, fee payment, financial aid, ID card access, scholarship information, vehicle registration and veterans services. Students can also visit the TCC bookstore and food court as part of the One-Stop Center. The Center’s hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Online Student Services

Students have access to many online services, all of which enhance the college experience. TCC’s goal is to make services accessible and convenient to both current and prospective students.

Many online services are available without a student ID number and personal password, including the following:

• Admission application
• Class search
• College catalog
• List of extracurricular activities
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• Student handbook and planner
• Textbook purchase
• Career Resources

The following services do require an eAccount username and password:

• Advising information (registration holds, advising detail checklist, links to university transfer manuals)
• Application for graduation
• Ask the Librarian
• Blackboard
• Change of address and other personal information
• Change program objective
• Degree audit
• Distance learning orientation to Distance Learning Workshop
• E-mail access
• Enrollment verification
• Fee payment
• Financial aid application and status check
• FTP access
• Grades/records
• Online tutoring (Learning Commons)
• Plato
• Registration
• Software programs accessible in the Learning Commons
• TCC Passport
• Transcript request
• Turnitin.com

Scholarships

TCC is committed to helping students achieve their educational and professional goals. The campus-wide scholarship program is an integral part of this commitment and is intended to provide qualified students with financial resources to support and promote their success.

Funding for the program is provided by the Division of Student Affairs and the TCC Foundation. For information, contact the scholarship coordinator at (850) 201-8411 or visit www.tcc.fl.edu and select Financial Aid & Scholarship Office from the Quicklinks menu.

Service Learning and Civic Engagement

Community service can enrich all students’ college experience. The Service Learning and Civic Engagement office matches students’ interests with community agency needs and sponsors service projects throughout the year. From coastal clean-ups to helping needy families, from the Red Cross to Habitat for Humanity, there is a project that suits each student’s interests and abilities. Students’ service hours can be recorded on the academic transcript by submitting documentation through the TallyScript each semester. Student, faculty and staff participation is welcome. For information, call (850) 201-6146 or stop by room 222 of the Student Union.

Student Activities and Organizations

The Office of Student Activities offers co-curricular activities including student government, live entertainment, multicultural programs, theme events, movie nights, comedy shows, gaming tournaments, financial workshops, leadership seminars, Student-Faculty Day, Spirit Day, Homecoming and more. In addition, there are many clubs and teams encompassing a wide range of interests, such as honorary and scholastic programs; cultural, social and community service organizations; and performing arts, recreational and spiritual pursuits. For a comprehensive list of student activities and organizations, please visit www.tcc.fl.edu/campuslife or call (850) 201-8420.

Student Conduct and Community Standards

The Student Conduct and Community Standards office reviews incidents of student conduct code violations, implements the campus disciplinary process which is used as a restorative teaching tool rather than one of punishment. The office also provides mediation for both students and faculty. Please refer to the Student Handbook and Planner for details on the Student Conduct Code.

Student ID/Access Card

The TCC Student ID card provides access to the TCC Library, Media Center, Academic Computing Center Labs, Testing Center, Career Services Center, Learning Commons, Lifetime Sports Complex and other campus facilities and labs. Cards and validation stickers are issued at the Cashier’s Office, located in room 273 of the Student Union, and can be obtained Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

A current paid fee slip and photo ID in required to receive a Student ID card with a validation sticker. To update the validation sticker, students must present a current paid fee slip and their Student ID card to the Cashier’s Office. To obtain a replacement card, students must pay a $10 fee at the Cashier’s Office.

Testing Center

The Testing Center, located in rooms 208, 211 and 219 of the Fine and Performing Arts Center, provides the following testing services: Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT); SPI/Web course exams; Criminal Justice Basics Abilities Test (CJBAT); HESII Nurse Admissions Exam; exemption tests; disability support testing and distance education proctoring services. A photo ID is required.

Students who are taking a SPI or Web class and who live in TCC’s service district (Gadsden, Leon or Wakulla County) are required to take tests at the Testing Center. This service is offered free of charge. The Quincy House, TCC’s Gadsden County service center, is also a distance learning testing site. Students who do not reside in TCC’s service district and who require the services of a proctor at a location other than TCC’s main campus should arrange the service through the Testing Center at (850) 201-8282. There may be fees associated with the use of external proctors.

Transportation

TCC provides students with Fare-Free Zone bus service through the City of Tallahassee. With a validated TCC Student ID card, students may ride Star Metro to any destination in Tallahassee without paying a fare. For information, please call (850) 201-8420.

Student Learning Resources

The College offers an extensive variety of learning opportunities and facilities both on and off campus. For information about student resources, open the Student Handbook and go to the chapter titled My Resources.

Academic Computing Labs

TCC prides itself on its commitment to provide students with access to the latest technologies. The Academic Computing Labs, located in room 210 of the Academic Computing Center, in the William D. Law, Jr. Learning Commons and in the library, are available to TCC students with TCC Student ID Cards. Students are welcome to use the hardware and software in the labs to complete course assignments using Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and multimedia applications. Macintosh platforms can be found in AC210, AC211 and the Learning Commons. In addition, students have access to the Internet and other equipment such as CD-ROMs and scanners.

The Student Technology Assistance Resource (STAR) Center, located in the Learning Commons, is equipped with a computer projector for students to practice PowerPoint presentations, as well as ample space for work on group projects.

Adaptive Computer Lab

The Adaptive Technology Computer Lab and DSS Testing Center are located in room 219 of the Fine and Performing Arts Center. They are available for students with disabilities who require specialized or adaptive equipment and testing accommodations.

eAccounts

Students have access to many electronic services in support of their academic experience. eAccounts are automatically assigned to all currently enrolled TCC students. eAccounts provide access to the following:

• TCC e-mail system*
• Campus LAN at the library
• Academic Computing Labs
• Computer Access Labs
• Adaptive Technology Computer Lab (or other academic labs)
• Smarthinking online tutor
• Web-based courses

Instructions for accessing the eAccount can be found under the Help tab at tccpassport.tcc.fl.edu.

Note: The TCC student e-mail system is the official method of communication among TCC faculty, staff and students. Students are expected to use TCC e-mail as their primary account and are encouraged to check their email frequently.

Learning Commons

The William D. Law, Jr. Learning Commons is a comprehensive, integrated learning center that provides learning assistance and resources to all TCC students. The Learning Commons offers students and faculty a broad range of services, including diagnostic assessment, learning materials and electronic resources, individual conferences, one-on-one and small group tutoring, whole class support, workshops and seminars, success strategies, technology and multimedia support, and assistance in the development and assessment of individual learning plans. Learning specialists, student success specialists and faculty collaborate to assist students in identifying and using resources to maximize learning and support student success.

The first floor of the Learning Commons provides support for students in all levels of mathematics, business related courses, health sciences, physical sciences and natural sciences. The second floor provides support for students in all aspects of communication, including reading, writing, language skills and support for non-native speakers of English. Communication specialists and library staff collaborate to provide support for research and information literacy.

Throughout the Learning Commons, students have open access to computers, computer applications and technology support. The Learning Commons is also served by specialists who provide advising, study skills seminars and counseling support. For information, call (850) 201-8193.

When classes are in session, hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Special schedules posted on the Web page should be consulted for hours during semester breaks, Summer semester, vacation periods and holidays.

Library

The TCC library, which shares a building with the William D. Law, Jr. Learning Commons, provides state-of-the art resources and services that support the academic mission of the College and the personal enrichment of TCC students, faculty and staff. Its collections include

• Books in print, electronic and audio formats, many of which are downloadable to computers and mobile devices
• Local, regional and national newspapers, magazines, trade publications and scholarly journals
• More than 100 research databases that offer the searchable full text of more than 9,000 journals, magazines and newspapers
• Course reserve items such as textbooks, DVDs and supplemental readings for in-library use
• Special collections such as the Florida History, Children’s, and Leisure Reading book collections, and the John G. Riley Museum of African-American History and Culture archives

The library also offers these services to support students’ academic needs:

• Staff of friendly professional librarians and skilled support personnel available all hours of operation to assist with assignments; locating, evaluating and citing information; and technology questions
• Extensive hours of operation: Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m.; Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (Hours vary during final exams, semester breaks, holidays and Summer semester. Special hours are posted around the Library and on the TCC College calendar.)
• Individual study carrels and group study rooms
• Large collection of films on DVD and equipment for viewing and listening
• Expert research assistance on walk-in basis and by appointment for one-on-one consultations or classroom instruction sessions
• “Embedded” research assistance in Blackboard courses via customized guides and tutorials
• Online chat/e-mail reference service (“Ask a Librarian”) staffed by professional librarians that puts additional research assistance at students’ fingertips throughout the day and during most of the hours the TCC library is closed
• Interlibrary loan service that allows students to borrow books and journal articles from other libraries anywhere in the world
• Photocopying, printing, scanning and faxing (school-related only)

Students should bring their TCC ID when visiting the library. A valid ID card is required to

• Borrow materials
• Access online databases*
• Use reserve and multimedia collections
• Use group study rooms
• Use printing and fax services

The library’s Web site serves as the portal to its rich array of resources and links students to the holdings of the 27 other Florida College System libraries and the 11 State University System libraries. The Web site also offers citation and research guides, database tutorials, and a blog with up-to-date information on a variety of technology and library-related topics.

Study Abroad

Humanities Study Abroad

The Humanities Study Abroad Program offers students an opportunity to both study and experience many of the greatest achievements in cultural history. Students seeking to satisfy the six-hour humanities requirement for the Associate in Arts degree may enroll in the sequence of HUM2740 Humanities Abroad I  and HUM2741 Humanities Abroad II .

The first course of the sequence is designed to prepare students both academically and practically for their participation in an educationally oriented overseas tour, and the second course of the sequence consists of such a tour. The second course literally brings students face-to-face with the cultural accomplishments they studied in the first course. The first course is offered during the Spring semester, and the second course is offered during the Summer semester.

Tour itineraries and course outlines vary from year to year. Past tours have visited London, Paris, Florence, Rome and Athens. For information about this year’s itinerary and the costs involved, contact the Division of Communications and Humanities at (850) 201-6070.

Spain Study Abroad

The Spain Study Abroad Program provides students with an opportunity to study Spanish language and culture while residing at and attending a major university in Spain. The following courses will be offered: SPN1121 , SPN2220 , SPN2240  and SPW2010 . Students may audit any of the classes offered. The Spain Study Abroad Program may vary from year to year. The main portion of the program takes place in Madrid. Past tours have included Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Toledo, Segovia, Avila and Cordova. For information, contact the Division of Communications and Humanities at (850) 201-6070.

China Study Abroad

The China Study Abroad Program provides students with an opportunity to study business while residing at and attending a major university in China. For information, contact the Division of Technology and Professional Programs at (850) 201-8352.

Taiwan Sister School

TCC has a relationship with a high school in Taiwan that has resulted in several Taiwanese students attending TCC, as well as TCC faculty members and students serving as English instructors during a summer session in Taiwan. For information, contact the Global Learning Office at (850) 201-8058.

Other Opportunities

TCC has fostered partnerships with other higher education institutions such as Florida State University to provide TCC students with additional opportunities to study abroad.

Veterans Center

The TCC Veterans Center helps veterans, reservists and dependents of veterans obtain, process and use their veterans educational benefits. The Veterans Center also provides professional guidance and support services to help veterans transition to academic and civilian life. Additionally, the Veterans Center provides referrals to other agencies for assistance such as healthcare benefits, counseling and employment services. Visit the Veterans Center on the second floor of the Computer Technology (CT) building, room 206, or at www.tcc.fl.edu/veterans, or call (850) 201-8406.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

The District Board of Trustees, faculty, staff and students are committed to creating a campus of learning, safety, shared responsibility and harmony. It is expected that all members of the educational community will share respect for the law and adhere to the highest ethical and moral standards of conduct.

In the event that these high standards are not self-enforced, the College will take action to protect its interests. Student conduct on campus and at off-campus sponsored activities and facilities is expected to be supportive of these interests.

The disciplinary function at TCC is an integral part of the educational mission of the College. Discipline is seen as a tool for guiding and teaching, rather than as punishment. Since behavior that is not in keeping with acceptable standards is often symptomatic of attitudes, misconceptions and emotional crises, the treatment of these symptoms through education and rehabilitative activities is an essential element of the disciplinary process. Severe disciplinary action against a student, such as suspension or expulsion, is considered and invoked only when necessary. Even in the case of irrevocable expulsion for misconduct, the process will not be considered punitive in the criminal sense, but will rather reflect the determination that the student is unqualified to continue as a member of the College community.

Each student, by registration, assumes the responsibility to become familiar with and to abide by College regulations and acceptable standards of conduct. Students who fail to observe College regulations or to maintain acceptable standards of personal conduct on campus or at College-sponsored functions or facilities are subject to disciplinary action. TCC reserves the right to discipline a student for activities that take place off campus when those activities adversely affect the College community. Disciplinary action by the College may proceed while criminal proceedings are pending and will not be subject to challenge on the grounds that criminal charges involving the same incident have been dismissed or reduced. (See the latest edition of the Student Handbook and Planner for more complete details on the TCC Student Conduct Code and student rights and responsibilities. Visit www.tcc.fl.edu/about_tcc/student_affairs/publications.)

Student Right of Privacy

The College maintains various student records to assist students in achieving their educational goals. These records are regarded as confidential, and information contained in them can be released only by written permission of the student.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act gives students the following rights with respect to their education records:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access. Students should submit to the college registrar written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The college official will make arrangements for access and notify the students of the time and place where the records will be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the college official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the college to amend a record should write the college official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the college decides not to amend the record as requested, the college will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
• The right to provide written consent before the college discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. The college discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to college officials with legitimate educational interests. A college official is a person employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person serving on the board of trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee. A college official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the College who performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the college with respect to the use and maintenance of personally identifiable information from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent or a student volunteering to assist another college official in performing his or her tasks. A college official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the College.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by a college to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is as follows:
  
  Family Policy Compliance Office
  U.S. Department of Education
  400 Maryland Avenue, SW
  Washington, DC 20202-5920

Directory Information

The following information may be released to anyone unless a student specifies in writing to the College registrar in the Department of Admissions and Enrollment Services that the information is not to be released:

• Student’s name
• Place of birth
• TCC e-mail address
• Major field of study
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Dates of attendance
• Degrees, academic honors and awards
• Enrollment status (i.e., full-time, part-time)
• Photographs*
• Most recent educational agency or institution attended

Note: Although TCC has designated photographs as directory information, these will appear only in TCC generated information, such as College publications and the College’s Web site.

Students may choose to withhold all, or some, of the designated directory information by completing the Request to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information form in the Department of Admissions and Enrollment Services. Any future release of such information would require written permission of the student.

Students should be aware that FERPA permits the disclosure of personally identifiable information from students’ education records, without consent of the student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in §99.31 of the FERPA regulations.

Social Security Number Collection and Use

In compliance with s. 119.071(5), F.S., TCC issues this notification to students, employees and applicants regarding the collection and usage of the Social Security number.

TCC collects and uses the Social Security number in performance of the College’s duties and responsibilities for the following purposes: admissions/testing; record identification and verification; classification of accounts; credit worthiness; billing and payments; data collection; reconciliation; tracking for outcome data and transition from one education level to the next; benefit processing; tax and scholarship reporting; financial aid processing; accreditation of programs; as a condition of employment and employment processing; and reporting to authorized agencies of the state and federal government. To protect identity, TCC secures all Social Security numbers from unauthorized access and assigns students and employees a unique identification number. The College will never release Social Security numbers to unauthorized parties. The unique identification number is used for all associated employment and educational purposes at TCC.

Enrollment Services/Workforce Programs/Florida Public Safety Institute

Federal legislation relating to the Hope Tax Credit requires that all postsecondary institutions report students’ Social Security numbers to the Internal Revenue Service. A student may refuse to disclose his or her Social Security number to the College; however, students should be aware that according to IRS publication 301.6724-1, the IRS imposes a $100 penalty for missing Social Security numbers (or TINs) and incorrect name and Social Security number combinations for information returns due on or after January 1, 2011.  

In addition to federal reporting requirements, the public school system in Florida uses Social Security numbers as student identifiers (s. 1008.386, F.S.) for purposes of tracking and assisting students in the smooth transition from one education level to the next. Social Security numbers are protected by FERPA and are never released to unauthorized parties.

Financial Aid Department

The Financial Aid office will use the student’s Social Security number to secure funds awarded and to report funds received by the student from the state and federal government. In addition, if a student is awarded and chooses to accept a student loan, the Social Security number will be used to obtain the loan funds from the lender the student specifies.

The United States Department of Education (USDOE) Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) requires all applicants to report their Social Security number to be used for all federal financial aid programs as a student identifier for processing and reporting. In addition to its use by USDOE as a student identifier, the Social Security number is required in order for the Department of Homeland Security to investigate citizenship status, for the Federal Work Study program, and on all loan applications for use by the lender/servicer/guarantor.

Sections 483 and 484 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, give TCC the authority to ask students and their parents these questions and to collect the Social Security numbers.

Human Resources Department

Providing your Social Security number is a condition of employment at TCC. The Social Security number is used for legitimate business purposes in compliance with the following:

• Completing and processing the federal I-9 form (Department of Homeland Security)
• Completing and processing the federal W4, W2 and 1099 forms (Internal Revenue Service)
• Completing and processing federal Social Security taxes (Federal Insurance Contributions Act tax)
• Completing and processing quarterly unemployment reports (Florida Department of Revenue)
• Completing and processing Florida Retirement Contributions (Florida Department of Revenue)
• Workers’ Compensation Claims (Florida Community College Risk Management Consortium and Department of Labor)
• Completing and processing direct deposit files (Automated Clearing House [ACH])
• Completing and processing 403b and 457b contributions
• Completing and processing group health, life and dental coverage enrollments
• Completing and processing various supplemental insurance deduction reports
• Completing and processing various payroll documents, including contracts for service

Intellectual Property Rights

Tallahassee Community College adheres to all applicable intellectual property laws, including but not limited to federal copyright law, Title 17 of the U.S. Code as amended at http://www.copyright.gov/title17. The College expects that all College employees, students and guests using the facilities or resources of the College will adhere to these laws. Unauthorized photocopying or distribution of materials protected by copyright law may lead to civil and criminal penalties.

The College monitors computer use to protect against unauthorized activity such as the distribution of protected materials (such as music, videos, software) using peer-to-peer file sharing networks. The College’s Computer Security and Access policy clearly states that “using College computers or computing systems in any manner which violates Federal, state, or local laws, or College policies…[may result in] discharge, dismissal, expulsion, and/or legal action.”  Civil penalties for copyright infringement include fines up to $30,000 per work infringed but can be as high as $150,000 in the case of willful infringement. Under current copyright law, criminal cases of copyright violation carry a penalty of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.