TABLE OF CONTENTS - South College · South College Faculty Handbook 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Page _____ INTRODUCTION 3

Faculty Handbook

South College Faculty Handbook 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Page _________________________________________________________________________ INTRODUCTION 3 INSTITUTIONAL MISSION 4 1.0 SCHOOL AND DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION 5 2.0 ACADEMIC COUNCIL 7 2.1 Membership 2.2 Election of Regular and Alternate Faculty Members 2.3 Officers 2.4 Duties and Jurisdiction 2.5 Meeting and Procedures 2.6 Recognition of South College Policies, Procedures, Catalog, and Handbooks 2.7 Standing Committees 3.0 FACULTY ROLE AND PARTICIPATION 12 3.1 General 3.2 Faculty Role 3.3 Membership 3.4 Meetings 3.5 Faculty Committees 4.0 ACADEMIC FREEDOM 15 5.0 FACULTY EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURES 16 5.1 Faculty Credentials 5.2 Appointment Letters 5.3 Salary Information 5.4 Terms and Classification 5.5 Joint Appointments 5.6 Initial and Movement in Faculty Rank 5.7 Faculty Duties and Workload 5.8 Retention of Faculty 5.9 Professional Growth 5.10 Faculty Performance Evaluations 6.0 RELATED ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION PROCEDURES 23 6.1 Cancellation of Classes 6.2 Class Hours 6.3 Confidentiality


6.4 College Calendar/Catalog 6.5 Course Outlines/Syllabi 6.6 Dating/Socialization with Students 6.7 Disability Services 6.8 South College E-mail 6.9 Faculty Member Absence 6.10 Faculty Use of Moodle 6.11 Final Examination 6.12 Grade Changes 6.13 Grade Reporting 6.14 Guest Speakers/Field Trips 6.15 Holidays/Vacations 6.16 Library 6.17 Meetings 6.18 Off-Campus Activities 6.19 Offices 6.20 Office Hours 6.21 Office of Sponsored Programs 6.22 Printing 6.23 Rosters and Other Documentation 6.24 Scheduling of Classes 6.25 South College Identification 6.26 Student Advisement 6.27 Student Attendance 6.28 Student Reinstatement 6.29 Technology 6.30 Textbooks/Supplies Appendices Appendix A Library Information and Request Forms Appendix B Change of Textbook Request and Textbook Change Form Appendix C College Syllabus Outline Appendix D Criteria for Evaluation of Faculty Performance Appendix E Directions for Submitting Final Grades Appendix F Student Conduct Standards and Regulations Appendix G Instructions for New Faculty Appendix H Academic Honor Code Appendix I Miscellaneous Forms Appendix J Professional Development Appendix K Faculty Member Job Description Appendix L Department Chair Job Description Appendix M Dean Job Description Appendix N System for Faculty Rank Appendix O Bylaws of the Academic Council


INTRODUCTION

This Faculty Handbook is prepared for the convenience of the faculty and supplements the information contained in the South College Employee Handbook. It contains information pertaining solely to the faculty. Policies and procedures are subject to change without prior notice. The Faculty Handbook applies to all faculty members of the institution. When institutional policies and procedures are added, removed, or changed by the Board of Trustees or administration, the effective date is immediate and any conflicting or inconsistent policies and procedures are superseded. Notification of added, removed, or changed policies procedures is given to the appropriate schools/departments or may be announced by institution-wide communication. Questions about a particular policy or procedure should be addressed to the appropriate Dean/Department Chair. Please see the South College Employee Handbook for discussion of the institutional administrative structure.

South College is an equal opportunity college open to any qualified individual without regard to race, religion, age, color, national or ethnic origin, military status or disability. Pursuant to all applicable federal anti-discrimination laws and regulations, South College does not discriminate against any of the protected categories of individuals in the administration of policies, programs, or activities. This non-discriminatory policy includes admission policies, loan programs, employment practices, and all other college-administered programs.

July 2014


MISSION South College is a private, co-educational, non-sectarian academic institution that embraces the traditional higher education mission triad of teaching, scholarly contribution, and service. Consistent with its long history, the institution places primary emphasis on providing quality undergraduate and graduate educational opportunities and associated student support services, for the intellectual, social, and professional development of a diverse student body. South College offers professional and career-focused curricula designed to cultivate students’ successful learning and the ability to apply knowledge, think critically, and communicate effectively. Through comprehensive academic programs, innovative and contemporary in content and mode of delivery, students are exposed to diverse perspectives and skills essential for independent and life-long learning. Because academic programs are professional and career-focused, South College responds to local, regional, and national employment needs and supports current workforce trends. In addition to providing quality educational opportunities, South College promotes the advancement of knowledge by supporting and recognizing the scholarly activities of its faculty and students and the use of scholarship in education and service. The South College faculty seeks to advance knowledge by conducting research and publishing research results as appropriate, creating artistic and literary works, presenting at professional and scientific meetings, and participating in professional development activities, as consistent with the role of each faculty member. As an institution of higher education, South College recognizes its responsibility to society and supports both institutional and individual commitments to service. Therefore, South College encourages its administration, faculty, and staff to invest their knowledge, experience, and expertise in community, professional, and institutional service. The definition and achievement of this mission guides South College in strategic planning and decision making at all levels of the institution. The core values of excellence, responsibility, and integrity serve as the foundation for assessing the quality of institutional, school/departmental, and individual performance in achieving this mission.


1.0 SCHOOL AND DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION As an institution offering programs ranging from certificate to doctoral level, schools and departments at South College are diverse in scope and organization. The Executive Vice President/Provost is the chief academic officer of the institution. In schools, the Dean serves as the lead administrator, while in departments it is the Department Chair. The role of Deans/Chairs includes:

Implementing and/or coordinating quality educational programs and course offerings to include leadership in the development, implementation, and continuous evaluation of the curriculum.

Establishing and managing appropriate procedures in conjunction with South College policies and procedures to include those for student advising and progression.

Leading planning, assessment, and evaluation processes in conjunction with the South College systematic planning process to ensure regular review of data relating to goals and student learning outcomes.

Supervising all recruitment and hiring processes within the school/department. Supervising faculty and staff to ensure achievement of assigned responsibilities and

ensuring appropriate orientation and annual evaluation. Effectively creating, submitting, and managing an annual budget for the

school/department. Ensuring that all federal, state, and accrediting requirements are met as related to the

school/department. The Dean/Chair represents the school/department for the institution and participates in institutional committees to include the Strategic Planning Committee and Academic Council. The Dean/Chair ensures that regular faculty meetings are held (at least one per quarter). The Dean/Chair appointment process typically begins with the Executive Vice President/Provost placing national, regional, or local advertisements announcing an open Dean/Chair position. These announcements are also traditionally placed in academic and professional association publications. The next step involves the Executive Vice President/Provost, or when applicable the Chair of a Search Committee, receiving letters of interest for the open advertised position, together with the applicant’s curriculum vitae and list of references. An initial screening of the applicant is conducted by the Executive Vice President/Provost, or Search Committee Chair, to verify that the applicant meets the minimum requirements for the position. The next step in the hiring process involves inviting the prospective Dean/Chair to interview with the Executive Vice President/Provost, Search Committee, and faculty as appropriate. A candidate may be required to present a seminar for existing faculty and interview with the faculty in the appropriate school/department.


After interviews are completed, the Executive Vice President/Provost and the Search Committee if applicable evaluate all applicant qualifications and any recommendations of the faculty in the applicable school/department. The Search Committee makes a recommendation for appointment to the Executive Vice President/Provost. Qualifications considered include but are not limited to educational background, professional experience, and proficiency in the English language. Through the Executive Vice President/Provost an offer is made to the recommended applicant, subject to approval by the President.


2.0 ACADEMIC COUNCIL 2.1 MEMBERSHIP The Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services, Deans, Department Chairs, Registrar, Director of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning, and the Head Librarian are appointed members of the Academic Council by virtue of their positions and are voting members. The President, Executive Vice President/Provost and Career Services Coordinator are ex-officio members of the Academic Council. Ex-officio members or their designated representatives are entitled to attend meetings of the Academic Council but are non-voting members. The faculty elects six regular faculty members to serve on the Academic Council who are voting members. A regular faculty member serves a three year term and may not serve consecutive terms. The faculty elects two alternate faculty members to serve on the Academic Council who serve in the place of an absent regular faculty member. Alternate faculty members are non-voting members except when serving in the place of an absent regular faculty member. An alternate faculty member serves a one year term and may not serve consecutive terms. The Academic Council, by a majority vote of its voting members, may designate persons not included in the foregoing categories of members who have the privilege of attendance and discussion at meetings of the Academic Council but who are non-voting members. 2.2 ELECTION OF REGULAR AND ALTERNATE FACULTY MEMBERS In November of each year, the Chair of the Academic Council notifies Deans and Chairs regarding the annual election period. By not later than the last business day of November, each school and department will meet to recommend two nominees and transmit the names of the nominees to the Chair of the Academic Council. To be eligible for nomination, a faculty member must have held a faculty appointment at South College for at least one year, and if an adjunct faculty member, he or she must be considered a continuing adjunct faculty member that teaches each quarter. The nominees from each school and department are reviewed by the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Academic Council to confirm their eligibility. If any nominee(s) is found to be ineligible, the Chair shall inform the Dean or Chair of the school or department that submitted the ineligible nominee(s). The school or department shall then submit a replacement nominee(s) by a date specified by the Chair of the Academic Council.


The Chair and Secretary of the Academic Council will prepare a ballot with appropriate instructions. The school and departments and the nominees from each school and department shall be listed on the ballot in alphabetical order. The ballot will be distributed, marked and collected during a time reserved for such purpose at the December faculty meeting. Faculty members not attending the meeting shall be provided a ballot by the faculty member’s Dean or Chair. Faculty members shall mark and return the ballot according to the deadline and location conspicuously placed on the ballot by the Chair of the Academic Council. All faculty members holding a faculty appointment at South College for at least one year shall be eligible to vote, and voting shall be by paper ballot. Each eligible faculty member shall be permitted to vote for four nominees from among all of the nominees included on the ballot, but may vote for no more than two nominees from each school or department. All ties will be resolved by a run-off election by paper ballot distributed by the Chair of the Academic Council to all faculty members eligible to vote. Faculty members shall mark and return the ballot according to the deadline and location conspicuously placed on the ballot by the Chair of the Academic Council. The two regular faculty member vacancies shall be filled by the two nominees receiving the two highest numbers of votes cast. The two alternate faculty member vacancies shall be filled by the two nominees receiving the two next highest numbers of votes cast. The Chair and Vice-Chair of the Academic Council, together with one regular faculty member of the Academic Council designated by the Academic Council, will be responsible for collecting and tabulating the ballots. Notification to elected regular and alternate faculty members will be made prior to the February meeting of the Academic Council, at which meeting the newly elected regular and alternate faculty members will be seated on the Academic Council. Refer to the Bylaws of the Academic Council for complete information. 2.3 OFFICERS The Chair of the Academic Council is the elected Vice-Chair from the previous year. The Chair serves one year in this office, with the term of office beginning at the February meeting of the Academic Council. The Chair is the presiding officer at meetings of the Academic Council and is responsible for seeing that the agenda and minutes of meetings of the Academic Council are prepared and kept and carries out any other activities specified in these Bylaws or as may be directed by the Academic Council. The Vice-Chair of the Academic Council is elected from among the voting members of the Academic Council on a yearly basis by the members of the Academic Council. At the November meeting of the Academic Council the Chair calls for nominations for the office of Vice-Chair and prepares a paper ballot listing the nominees in alphabetical


order. The ballot is distributed, marked and collected at the February meeting of the Academic Council. The collected ballots are handed to the immediate past Chair, or in the absence of the immediate past Chair to a regular faculty member designated by the Academic Council, who shall tabulate the ballots and announce the nominee receiving the highest number of votes cast, who is then installed as Vice-Chair prior to adjournment of the February meeting. The person elected to the office of Vice-Chair serves a one year term as Vice-Chair, followed by a one year term as Chair. The respective terms each begin at the February meeting of the Academic Council. The Vice-Chair is the presiding officer at meetings of the Academic Council in the absence of the Chair. The Vice-Chair assists the Chair in preparation of the agenda and minutes of meetings of the Academic Council and in other business of the Academic Council as identified or delegated by the Chair. The Administrative Assistant to the Executive Vice President/Provost serves as the Secretary for meetings of the Academic Council and keeps accurate minutes and records of all meetings of the Academic Council, and assists the Chair and Vice-Chair in preparing materials prior to each meeting of the Academic Council and such other activities as necessary to carrying out the business of the Academic Council. The Secretary has the privilege of attendance at meetings of the Academic Council, but not the privilege of voting. In the absence of the Secretary, the Executive Vice President/Provost shall designate a person to serve as Secretary for the meeting. 2.4 DUTIES AND JURISDICTION The Academic Council is constituted for the purpose of supporting achievement of the academic mission and objectives of South College. Functions of the Academic Council include, as applicable, recommending, reviewing, interpreting, and approving academic policies, admission and graduation requirements, teaching and learning methods, curricula, courses, and assessment of student learning and curricular effectiveness. The Academic Council considers any matter referred to it by the President, Executive Vice President/Provost, Career Services Coordinator, or any member or members jointly of the Academic Council. 2.5 MEETINGS AND PROCEDURES The Academic Council meets at least quarterly, with meetings held at a place designated by the Chair of the Academic Council on the second Thursday at 3:00 p.m. in the months of February, May, August, and November. The Chair may alter the meeting date and/or time when in conflict with holidays or other activities or events. Special meetings may be called by the President, Executive Vice President/Provost and Chair of the Academic Council, or by written request of a minimum of four members of the Academic Council. The Chair shall provide notice to each member of the Academic Council reasonably in advance of any meeting. This notice shall contain the agenda for the meeting, the minutes of the last meeting and such other information as may be necessary for advance study by


the members of the Academic Council. The Chair will set the agenda for meetings of the Academic Council. The President, Executive Vice President/Provost, Placement Coordinator, or any member of the Academic Council may recommend items for inclusion on the agenda. New business intended for discussion at a regular meeting of the Academic Council is presented in writing to the Chair of the Academic Council a minimum of two weeks in advance of the meeting. Members of the Academic Council have the right to present proposals from the floor at any time. A majority (51%) of the voting members of the Academic Council constitutes a quorum. At all meetings of the Academic Council, voting shall be by voice, by show of hands, by rising vote, or by paper ballot, as decided by the presiding officer. It shall be in order, however, for any voting member of the Academic Council to move for a vote by ballot. A majority vote of voting members present at the meeting of the Academic Council shall decide a motion. Proxy voting may be allowed on specific motions if that proxy is submitted to the Chair in writing in advance of the meeting at which the motion is to be considered. Any subsequent amendments to the original motion shall automatically invalidate the proxy vote. Business matters requiring expedited action by the Academic Council may be acted on either at a special called meeting or by electronic balloting. If a matter is to be acted on at a special meeting, the special meeting shall be called and conducted as provided in Section 1 of Article VI of the Academic Council Bylaws. If a matter is to be acted on by electronic balloting, a request for electronic balloting shall be presented to the Chair of the Academic Council by the President, Executive Vice President/Provost or four members of the Academic Council. The request shall be presented to the Chair in writing and shall include a statement of the necessity for expedited action and a statement of the action requested, with the action requested stated in the form of a formal motion, with the name of the person offering the motion and the name of the person seconding the motion included. The Chair and Vice-Chair shall promptly prepare and then electronically distribute an appropriate ballot to the voting members of the Academic Council in accordance with a procedure agreed upon by the Academic Council members. Upon conclusion of the electronic balloting the Chair shall promptly announce the result of the electronic balloting. Any faculty member with a current faculty appointment at South College may attend meetings of the Academic Council as an observer, or as a participant in discussion upon the invitation of a member of the Academic Council.


2.6 RECOGNITION OF SOUTH COLLEGE POLICIES, PROCEDURES, CATALOG, AND HANDBOOKS The Academic Council shall, in the conduct of the Council’s activities, recognize and adhere to South College policies, procedures, catalog and handbooks. Any matter not specifically addressed in the Academic Council Bylaws shall be governed by South College policies, procedures, catalog and handbooks. 2.7 STANDING COMMITTEES Standing Committees support the Academic Council in carrying out its duties and initiate recommendations and receive matters referred by the Academic Council for study and recommendation. Standing Committees report to the Academic Council when necessary or when requested by the Chair of the Academic Council. Standing Committees meet at least once annually and at such other times as determined necessary by the Chair of the Standing Committee or the Chair of the Academic Council. The process for appointing members to each Standing Committee is provided in the Bylaws of the Academic Council. The current Standing Committees include the Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee and the Graduate Studies Committee.


3.0 FACULTY ROLE AND PARTICIPATION 3.1 GENERAL The faculty of South College constitutes an integral part of the educational delivery system and the institution fully supports this role. The institution seeks the faculty’s meaningful voice in the present operation and the future direction of the institution. It is the intent of the College to provide for a regular process by which the faculty participate in institutional decision-making and for a forum for faculty to make proposals for improvement of the College. All schools/departments have representation on the Academic Council and the Strategic Planning Committee. These bodies make recommendations regarding general policies of the institution as a whole. Content, effectiveness, and relevance of the curriculum is vested with the faculty. The work of faculty and committees within schools, departments, and the institution as a whole provide additional avenues for faculty voice. It is the responsibility of all members of the institution to work collaboratively to achieve the best possible outcomes. 3.2 FACULTY ROLE While faculty members at South College have primarily a teaching role, there are also responsibilities in the areas of scholarship and service as outlined in the appropriate job description for achievement of the mission of the institution. Faculty members disseminate knowledge to students and assist them with the learning process in order to apply knowledge and skills as appropriate. Collaboration among faculty in their disciplines is vital for course and program content to evolve as does the world around us. Faculty input and recommendations are sought to include, but not limited to, the following:

Development of educational programs to include new programs and appropriate revisions to existing programs based on systematic assessment and evaluation;

Faculty in each program collectively determines appropriate recommendations to be made to the Academic Council relating to new programs of study proposed for implementation at South College, as well as revisions to existing programs. Information considered when making recommendations may come from sources such as assessment data relating to student performance, research conducted in the discipline, professional development activities completed by faculty, advisory board recommendations, employer input, and standard changes by regulatory boards or agencies such as programmatic accrediting agencies, licensing agencies, and state boards.

Selection of course materials to include required textbooks and any other materials; Faculty should review all administrative course outlines for any existing program at least annually. This review should include the review of textbooks being utilized to ensure that


the most current information available is being utilized. Recommendations for any changes should be approved by the Dean/Chair.

Selection of instructional equipment and other educational resources; Annually, the institution prepares an institutional budget. Each program area is asked to submit expense requests for the upcoming year. Each Dean/Chair involves all faculty members in this process and all requests are evaluated first at the school/departmental level. Requests agreed upon by the faculty and approved by the Dean/Chair are included in the budget information (with justification) submitted to the Executive Vice President/Provost. Requests include purchases of additional instructional equipment and other educational resources such as teaching aids and software for classroom use. If a resource is needed that was not budgeted for the fiscal year, the Dean/Chair should meet with the Executive Vice President/Provost to identify options to address the need.

Assessment of student outcomes; and Faculty in each program work collaboratively to determine appropriate student outcomes. Systematic data collection is then planned, along with an evaluation schedule, to ensure that students outcomes are achieved and can be validated by the data collected. If student performance does not meet expectations, then appropriate improvement plans must be established, carried out, and assessed for effectiveness.

Planning for institutional effectiveness. All faculty members are expected to maintain professional standards, attitude, and performance levels to ensure effective, safe, ethical, and legal performance in all aspects of their role as faculty members. This includes giving serious consideration to all forms of informal and formal individual performance evaluation (course and instructor evaluations, classroom visitation, annual performance review, and clinical site evaluation) and seeking methods for improvement. This same consideration for evaluation occurs in each program area through continuous and systematic strategic planning which includes goals for improvement. Faculty members are encouraged to participate in institutional planning meetings and a representative from each program is a member of the Strategic Planning Committee. The faculty participate in establishing major institutional priorities in several ways. The Academic Council makes recommendations for approval of new programs and discontinuing existing programs as appropriate. Deans/Chairs consult with faculty about curriculum, resource, and other needs which are in turn incorporated in annual budget requests. Faculty members are supported in their scholarly pursuits as appropriate to the school/department. These pursuits may include funded and non-funded research projects, publications, presentations, peer-review participation, and institutional projects. Faculty members should monitor educational and professional literature for best practices in areas


related to courses taught. In all cases, faculty should protect the integrity of academic work. Any allegations of misconduct in research should be directed to the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research. As part of the South College mission, the institution supports and encourages service to the institution, community, and to the associated professions of faculty. Annually, all faculty are asked to volunteer for service on institutional committees. Each academic school/department and administrative unit is responsible for the coordination and completion of at least one service activity to the community. The institution monetarily supports memberships in professional organizations and supports service to these organizations in various capacities such as holding office, serving on committees, and conducting presentations. 3.3 MEMBERSHIP The faculty shall consist of the President, Executive Vice President/Provost, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services, Deans/Chairs, Registrar, Head Librarian, Director of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning, and full and part-time faculty members. 3.4 MEETINGS A general faculty meeting is held at the end of each quarter in preparation for the upcoming quarter. The Executive Vice President/Provost is responsible for providing advance notification of the date, time, and place of the meeting and for preparing an agenda for the meeting. Faculty may request placement of items on the general meeting agenda through the Executive Vice President/Provost. Agenda items should be provided to the Executive Vice President/Provost in advance of the meeting or may, with the approval of the Executive Vice President/Provost, be added at any time prior to the meeting. Faculty members shall have the opportunity to discuss fully all agenda items. Issues requiring faculty input in terms of recommendations shall be voted on by the members present. Special meetings may be called by the President, the Executive Vice President/Provost, the Academic Council, or by petition of one-fourth of the faculty, presented in writing to the Executive Vice President/Provost, who will arrange for a meeting at the nearest possible time within two weeks of the petition. 3.5 FACULTY COMMITTEES See Policy 2.2, “Standing Committees” in the Employee Handbook for a full outline of Standing Committees and their responsibilities, including the Academic Council, Library, Faculty Appeals, Conduct, Safety, Retention, Special Events, Strategic Planning and Admissions Committees.


4.0 ACADEMIC FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY Institutions of higher education are conducted to provide learning experiences for their students. Academic freedom of the faculty in teaching is essential to this purpose and is fundamental for the protection of the rights of the faculty in teaching and the students in learning. This freedom bears with it duties as well as rights. The faculty member is entitled to freedom in the classroom discussing his or her subject, but must exercise this freedom in a responsible manner. The faculty member is entitled to full freedom in research and in publication of the results, subject to the adequate performance of other academic duties. No full-time faculty member may take on additional employment, including research for pecuniary return, without the necessary approval. Such additional employment must not interfere with the faculty member’s duties at the College (Please see Conflict of Commitment and Conflict of Interest policies). The faculty member may exercise his or her rights as a citizen when speaking or writing as a citizen and should be free from institutional censorship or discipline, but the faculty member's unique position in the community imposes special obligations. As a member of a learned profession the faculty member should remember that the public may judge his or her profession and South College as an institution by his or her actions and utterances. Consequently, a faculty member should at all times be accurate, exercise appropriate restraint, show respect for the opinions of others, and make every effort to indicate that he or she is not an institutional spokesperson. For grievances regarding academic freedom issues, see Section 6.4 of the Employee Handbook.


5.0 FACULTY EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURES South College recruits, employs, retains, and promotes employees according to merits, taking into account academic qualifications, teaching, scholarship, and service excellence, commitment to the institution, and overall performance. The faculty appointment process typically begins with the Dean/Chair placing national, regional, or local advertisements announcing faculty openings. These announcements are also traditionally placed in academic and professional association publications. The next step involves the Dean/Chair, or when applicable the Chair of a Search Committee, receiving letters of interest for the open position, together with the applicant’s curriculum vitae and list of references. An initial screening of the applicant is conducted by the Dean/Chair, or Search Committee Chair, to verify that the applicant meets the minimum requirements for the position. The next step in the hiring process involves inviting the prospective faculty member to interview with the Dean/Chair, Search Committee, and faculty as appropriate. A prospective faculty member may be required to present a seminar for existing faculty and interview with the faculty in the appropriate school/department. After interviews are completed, the Dean/Chair and faculty in the school/department evaluate the applicant’s qualifications before making a specific recommendation for appointment to the Executive Vice President/Provost. Qualifications considered include but are not limited to educational background, professional experience, and proficiency in the English language. Through the Dean/Chair, an offer of employment is made to the applicant selected, subject to approval by the Executive Vice President/Provost and the President. The procedure for the employment of part-time faculty is similar to that used for the employment of full-time faculty. Employment is recommended by the appropriate Dean/Chair and approved by the Executive Vice President/Provost, and the President, however a Search Committee or faculty interview process may not be necessary. Part-time faculty members receive teaching and other assignments on a quarterly basis, with their salaries determined based on their teaching and other assignments. Part-time faculty members have faculty voting rights after four quarters of providing instruction. Faculty assignments are made on the basis of the priorities, needs, and resources of South College, the school/department, and the qualifications of the faculty candidatel. 5.1 FACULTY CREDENTIALS Education: General Studies: Doctorate or Master’s degree in the discipline or

Master’s degree with 18 graduate semester hours (gsh) in discipline. Associate Degree Programs: Doctorate or Master’s degree in

discipline or Master’s degree with 18 gsh in discipline. Bachelor’s


degree in discipline may be accepted for programs not normally designed for transfer to a bachelor’s degree.

Baccalaureate Degree Programs: Doctorate or Master’s degree in

discipline or Master’s degree with 18 gsh in discipline. Graduate Degree Programs: Doctorate/Terminal degree in

discipline. Experience: Prior teaching experience (which may be satisfied by experience in

academic degree programs) and/or practical/clinical experience in the discipline (which may be satisfied by experience in a structured post-graduate program, such as a residency or fellowship). In exceptional cases, experience may be considered in lieu of academic credentials. Detailed documentation of experience is required.

Documentation of applicable licenses/certifications is required. In some cases, course descriptions and/or syllabi of courses completed may be required for determination of compliance with credit hour requirements. Only degrees earned from regionally accredited institutions are recognized. Transcripts or other required documentation of faculty members’ qualifications must be provided prior to employment. All official transcripts and any other required documentation must be provided within 60 days of the effective date of employment.

When official documentation and transcripts are not available on the date of employment, the new employee will prepare and provide to the administration transcript requests for all colleges and universities attended. The administration will ensure that transcript requests are mailed, but it remains the employee’s responsibility to provide adequate documentation.

Faculty members who fail to provide proper credentials within 60 days of employment are subject to immediate termination and are ineligible for rehire. General South College faculty requirements are included in the faculty member job description. Each school/department may have additional specific requirements. 5.2 APPOINTMENT LETTERS Permanent full-time faculty members receive an initial appointment letter of indefinite duration, and conduct their work subject to its terms, this Faculty Handbook, the Employee Handbook, and any existing school/department handbook. Part-time faculty members receive an appointment letter and conduct their work subject to its terms, this Faculty Handbook, the Employee Handbook, and any existing school/department handbook. Part-time faculty teaching and other assignments are made on an as-needed, quarterly basis.


The Dean/Chair obtains authorization to search for a new full-time or part-time faculty member after consultation with the Executive Vice President/Provost regarding the needs of the program. An authorization to search does not necessitate appointment, as financial conditions within the institution or an appropriate candidate may prevent appointment. A thorough search and careful selection must precede any recommendation of appointment. As part of this process, the Dean/Chair is responsible for ensuring that program faculty are involved in the selection of candidates for interview and appointment. The faculty or representative search committee completes interviews and makes a recommendation to the Dean/Chair for consideration. The recommendation from the Dean/Chair will then be made to the Executive Vice President/Provost, who will then make a recommendation to the President. Once a recommendation for appointment has been approved, the Dean/Chair may discuss rank, salary, and other terms of employment with the prospective faculty member. Discussions do not constitute a binding offer of employment. If verbal agreement is reached, an acceptable background check must then be received. Notification of formal appointment is made by letter from the Dean/Chair and the Executive Vice President/Provost. This appointment letter specifies start date, rank, salary and related financial conditions, general duties and expectations, and the primary school/department, in the case of joint appointments. Written acceptance of the appointment letter via signature, together with completion of regular institutional employment forms, completes the initial appointment. 5.3 SALARY INFORMATION Salaries for faculty are initially determined based on review of qualifications including both academic and professional background of the desired candidate. The Dean/Chair makes recommendation for approval of initial salary to the Executive Vice President/Provost. Salaries for full-time faculty are reviewed annually. Faculty performance, as evaluated in the annual review, is a determining factor. The College makes no guarantees that faculty members will receive pay increases or even remain at the same level of pay, and any increases will be based upon a range which is set for the year. Payment for services of the faculty is made on the 15th and last day of each month. Adjunct faculty payments are determined in the same manner as described for full-time faculty. 5.4 TERMS AND CLASSIFICATIONS Two types of faculty appointment are recognized: full-time and adjunct (part-time). Full-time faculty generally receive twelve-month appointments. Adjunct (part-time) faculty are appointed generally on a quarterly basis.


5.5 JOINT APPOINTMENTS Joint appointments involve participation in the teaching, research, and service in two or more schools/departments. All matters of rank, performance, supervision, and review should be led by the primary school/department in which the faculty member is appointed. The primary school/department should consult with the Dean/Chair of the other school/department. Where joint appointments involve equal time in two or more schools/departments, the areas should share in the responsibilities indicated. The original appointment letter must designate the faculty member’s primary school/department. 5.6 INITIAL AND MOVEMENT IN FACULTY RANK Faculty are evaluated for initial faculty rank based on the South College System for Faculty Rank (See Appendix N). All faculty are expected to contribute to the mission of the institution which includes teaching, scholarly contribution, and service. The particular requirements in these areas vary depending upon the program, the program level, and the discipline. The exact determination of effort in teaching/scholarship/service is a function of the skills of the faculty member and the needs of the school/department and institution. Appointment to the South College faculty is based on past record and/or promise of excellence in teaching, scholarly contribution, and serrvice. Academic credentials appropriate to the appointment are the primary criteria for initial appointment to the South College faculty. Initial appointment is made at the time of hire. Movement in academic rank is recognition of past achievements and reflects confidence in greater responsibility and accomplishment in the future. Academic rank is awarded based on merit consistent with these standards and is made on an objective, equitable, and impartial basis. Deadlines for movement in rank activities are communicated for each year in October. 5.7 FACULTY DUTIES AND WORKLOAD Full-time faculty teaching in undergraduate programs will typically engage in classroom teaching approximately 16-20 contact hours per week and those teaching in graduate programs 12-16 hours per week. These hours may include serving as course director for one or more courses. In some quarters faculty may not serve as a course director, but may provide lectures in appropriate courses being offered during the quarter. The faculty member divides the additional hours in the week among teaching preparation and assessment, administrative activities, scholarly activity, student advising, service engagement, clinical practice or other activities to maintain expertise. The individual mix of responsibilities is determined by each Dean/Chair, in consultation with each faculty member, with approval of the Executive Vice President. Engaging in scholarly pursuit and contribution, and providing institutional, professional, and public service is viewed as an important complement to the teaching commitment of


the faculty member. The degree of expectation in these areas is dependent upon the school/department in which the faculty member is appointed. The institution relies on faculty to actively engage in administrative responsibilities, such as student advising, school/department and institutional committee participation and leadership, and assisting in the day-to-day operations of the academic enterprise. Fulfilling such responsibilities is expected of faculty in order to hold the academic faculty appointment. Faculty assigned to, among other activities, responsibility for academic administration and research and service programs may be assigned a reduced teaching commitment during a defined period of time. Faculty may be assigned additional responsibilities if teaching assignments involve less than full responsibility for a course. In determining the target instructional load for individual faculty members, the Dean/Chair, in consultation with the faculty member, will consider the following factors:

Number of courses assigned, size of classes, amount of course preparation required, number of course preparations required, type and amount of student work to evaluate;

Student supervision; Laboratory supervision; Work with professional organizations and related work; Service as a clinical instructor; Professional activities for outside community agencies; Institution, school/department, and professional service activities; Research and other scholarly endeavors; Participation, as appropriate, in academic advising; and Other activities important to the institution and school/department.

It is the goal of South College to employ a faculty that is committed to excellence in teaching, scholarly activity, and service. 5.8 RETENTION OF FACULTY All faculty members are subject to the policies contained in both the Faculty Handbook and the Employee Handbook, including the ninety (90) day probationary period (Policy 1.8). Disciplinary and performance issues will be handled pursuant to Policy 6.2 of the Employee Handbook. For the purposes of illustration, a non-exhaustive list of reasons for which a faculty member may be terminated includes the following: Arrest for conviction of, or admission of the commitment of, a felony offense or of a

crime involving moral turpitude during the period of employment, or prior thereto, if the arrest, conviction or admission was concealed;

Failure to meet obligations as described in the appointment letter, job description,

Faculty Handbook, Employee Handbook; professional incompetence; neglect of


duty; ineffectiveness; or default of academic integrity in teaching, in scholarship, or in service;

Violation of South College’s commitment to a Drug Free Workplace as contained in

its Substance Abuse Policy, including, but not limited to the sale or distribution of illegal drugs, teaching under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, and any other use of alcohol or illegal drugs that interferes with a faculty member's performance of his or her responsibilities or duties to the institution or to his or her profession;

Any false statements or representations, whether oral or written, in connection with

the faculty member’s employment with the College; Any violation of the College’s Sexual and Other Discriminatory Harassment,

Employment of Relatives-Nepotism, Dating and Socialization With Students, Weapons, Workplace Violence or Computers, E-Mail, Telephones and Other Electronic Communications Systems and Equipment policies or the College’s Computer Code of Ethics;

Disruption of any teaching, scholarship, administrative, disciplinary, service, or

other authorized activity; Immoral or obscene conduct, including use of offensive language; Slander of the College or denigration of its public image; Willful violation of policies and published rules of the institution. Faculty member’s employment may also be terminated as the needs and financial circumstances of the College warrant. A faculty member who feels that he/she was unjustly dismissed may appeal the dismissal to the Faculty Appeals Committee within two weeks of receipt of the notice to terminate. This Committee is composed of two faculty members chosen during the institutional committee volunteer process for faculty representation on institutional standing committees and one faculty member chosen by the faculty member initiating the appeal. Any request for appeal must be presented as a written brief and request for appeal which details the reasons why termination is inappropriate under the circumstances. Upon receipt of the request, the Committee is then charged with the responsibility of evaluating the information presented, conducting interviews with associated individuals, and making a recommendation of action to the President, whose decision is final. The College reserves the right to change the employment status of any faculty member, including full-time faculty, each quarter, as course needs or enrollment warrants. Any faculty member whose status will be changed will be notified by the end of pre-registration for any quarter.


All faculty members shall give written notice of any intent to resign or retire to the Executive Vice President/Provost at least three months prior to the desired time, unless due to an unforeseeable serious health condition which renders the faculty member unable to perform one or more essential job functions. Failure to do so will disqualify the individual for consideration for any future employment with the College. As noted, faculty members are subject to the ninety (90) day probation period outlined in the Employee Handbook. This is a period of orientation and acclimation to the South College mission and policies and procedures. At the conclusion of the probation period, the Dean/Chair will review the faculty member’s overall performance and determine whether continued employment is appropriate. If retained, the faculty member advances to regular full-time or part-time status. After completion of the probationary period, termination of a faculty member’s employment will be subject to the review by the Faculty Appeals Committee as provided above. 5.9 PROFESSIONAL GROWTH Full-time faculty members are required to complete two professional growth activities each year. Part-time faculty members are encouraged to complete a minimum of one activity each year. Depending upon the activity and the approval from the Dean/Chair, Executive Vice President/Provost, and the President, professional growth activity fees may be paid by the College for full-time faculty members. Part-time faculty who have taught on an ongoing basis at South College should see the appropriate Dean/Chair or Executive Vice President/Provost with questions regarding professional growth activities. 5.10 FACULTY PERFORMANCE EVALUATION All faculty members are expected to maintain professional standards, attitude, and performance levels to ensure effective, safe, ethical, and legal performance in all aspects of the position. This includes giving serious consideration to all forms of informal and formal performance evaluation (e.g., student course and instructor evaluations, classroom visitation, annual performance review, and clinical site evaluation) and seeking methods for improvement while striving for academic excellence. Each full-time faculty member’s performance is evaluated on an annual basis. Part-time faculty members who have received teaching and other assignments for four or more continuous quarters are also subject to an annual review. Faculty teaching in distance learning courses are evaluated in the same manner as those teaching in onground courses. Along with marketplace circumstances, the priorities established for the College, and its financial situation, these reviews play a critical role in determining pay adjustments, assignments, promotions, and further employment. During these reviews, faculty members are evaluated in the areas of teaching, scholarly activity, and service. The process begins with a self-evaluation of performance and achievement of objectives set for the year. The criteria upon which performance is reviewed are found in Appendix D to this Faculty Handbook. A description of and instructions for


completing the review process are located in Appendix D of the Employee Handbook. Any merit pay increase allowances are determined institutionally each year. A faculty member with an overall performance rating of 5, 4, or 3 is eligible for all or part of any merit increase that may be authorized. A rating of 2 or 1 indicates that performance is below standards required and no merit increase may be authorized. Ratings of this nature require an action plan for improvement and may result in probationary status. Student evaluations of courses and instructors are conducted quarterly to provide faculty members important feedback and to assist in the review process. Classroom visitations may be conducted during the first quarter for new faculty and at least annually for all faculty.


6.0 RELATED ACADEMIC ADMINISTATIVE PROCEDURES 6.1 CANCELLATION OF CLASSES Classes will not be canceled except in cases of emergency. In the case of illness, please refer to the section on Faculty Member Absence in this Faculty Handbook. In the event of inclement weather, faculty members should assume that classes will meet as normally scheduled unless notified by telephone, radio, or TV announcements. If there is a power failure while a class is in session, the faculty member should allow 30 minutes for the electricity to be restored. After that time, the class should continue only if sufficient light exists in the classroom. Faculty members are expected to be on campus the full class time regardless of the number of students in attendance. Reference the Inclement Weather Policy available via the Faculty Portal. 6.2 CLASS HOURS Class hours are posted for the reference of faculty and students. It is the obligation of the faculty member to ensure that all classes start and end promptly. 6.3 CONFIDENTIALITY Pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), as amended, faculty members shall protect the privacy of all student educational records. This protection applies to all student educational records in any format and includes grades/GPA, test scores, academic standing, and academic transcripts. All student educational records shall be kept in a secure location and maintained in a secure manner. Final grades shall be delivered in person to the designated, secure location at the end of each academic term. Caution should be taken when verbally speaking with students about their student educational records. Exams, papers, or any other student educational records should not be left outside the faculty member’s office or in any area that is open-access. Computers or removable media containing student educational records should not be left unsecured and the faculty member’s personal access information (e.g., network identification, username) and password should not be shared with others. Student educational records should only be shared with the student and others as appropriate within the South College environment. If anyone else requests information, please contact the Registrar for guidance. 6.4 COLLEGE CATALOG/CALENDAR The South College catalog is published annually and contains all pertinent information regarding program requirements and school regulations. Additions and revisions made between publications are published in an associated catalog addendum.


The South College Academic Calendar is found in the catalog, on the student/faculty portal, and on the institutional website and lists all important college-related dates including vacations and holidays. 6.5 COURSE OUTLINES AND SYLLABI Administrative course outlines should be reviewed annually and current copies provided to the office of the Executive Vice President/Provost. These outlines are intended as a general guideline for course content and include the required textbooks, course descriptions, and course objectives. Using the information provided in the administrative course utlines, faculty members must prepare course syllabi for each class taught during each quarter. Course syllabi should be prepared that reflect all course information required per South College policies and that clearly presents information for all student assessment expectations. Student assessment criteria should be planned to ensure determination of student achievement of course objectives. The content requirements for the faculty-generated syllabus can be found in Appendix C to this Faculty Handbook. Course syllabi must be submitted to the appropriate Dean/Chair per quarterly deadlines. Approval of all syllabi must be received prior to posting of the syllabus on Moodle. Syllabi must be posted on the Moodle site for each course a minimum of five days prior to the beginning date for each quarter and also reviewed in detail via the Moodle site during the first class session for the course. Approved administrative course outlines and textbooks for each course must be followed. 6.6 DATING AND SOCIALIZATION WITH STUDENTS While the college encourages a friendly and supportive relationship between faculty, staff, and students, socialization on more than a professional basis between faculty or staff and students is prohibited, except where a relationship pre-exists any application for enrollment and it is revealed in writing to the Executive Vice President/Provost as provided in Policy 6.15 of the Employee Handbook. Where such a relationship exists, the faculty member in question is prohibited from teaching, advising, or supervising the student, except with the President’s express written permission. Due to the ethical nature of grade assignment and other issues, staff/faculty should refrain from having any meals off-campus with a student, unless it is a group event. Faculty or staff members who violate this policy are subject to immediate dismissal. 6.7 DISABILITY SERVICES Students requesting special services and disability accommodation from the College should contact the Dean of Student Services for complete information on College policies and procedures. All requests should be made at least one month prior to beginning classes in order to allow time for the request to be evaluated appropriately. Students who have demonstrated a recognized physical or learning disability must contact the Dean of


Student Services each quarter to continue receiving special services and disability accommodations. South College does not discriminate on the basis of disability and is committed to full compliance with The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. If a student is granted a disability accommodation relating to participation in a course or other activity for a specific quarter, the Dean of Student Services will communicate the accommodation and associated directions to the appropriate faculty member via letter. Any student approaching a faculty member to request an accommodation (e.g., additional time to take an examination, oral testing, relocation during an examination), should be referred to the Dean of Student Services. Accommodations may or may not continue from quarter to quarter. 6.8 E-MAIL All South College faculty, staff, and students are provided use of a South College e-mail account. To promote effective communication, all are required to utilize this e-mail address instead of personal addresses for communications with South College 6.9 FACULTY MEMBER ABSENCE If a faculty member anticipates he or she will not be able to hold a class at the scheduled date and time, the faculty member should notify the Dean/ Chair or Director of Academic Support in advance and work collectively to secure an appropriate substitute from the faculty. Detailed lesson plans for the substitute faculty member must be provided. Should an emergency arise, the faculty member should contact the Dean/Chair, Director of Academic Support, or Executive Vice President/Provost immediately so that arrangements can be made for class supervision. Because absences undermine class effectiveness, faculty members should make every effort to avoid them, subject only to applicable legal requirements regarding leave. 6.10 FACULTY USE OF MOODLE Moodle is a Web-based learning management system designed to allow students and faculty to participate in courses delivered in a hybrid (supplement face-to-face) or online environment. The system enables instructors to provide students with course materials, discussion boards, virtual chat, online quizzes, an academic resource center, gradebook, and more. Students can submit homework, view grades, take quizzes and tests, communicate, and more via Moodle. The system can be accessed anywhere there is an Internet connection. South College provides a resource site for faculty members containing information about what Moodle is and how it might be used in online and face-to-face classes. Additionally, many step-by-step guides and tutorials are available on the site. The site is maintained by the Office of Instructional Technology and is located at http://itech.southcollegetn.edu/.


The Instructional Technology department offers continuous training sessions based on tools in the Moodle system and the pedagogical integration of technology. A training calendar and online registration are maintained on the website above. Electronic mail messages are sent out to all faculty members to alert them when new training sessions are scheduled. All faculty members, regardless of rank or full or part-time appointment, must complete an Introduction to Moodle training session before being allowed to access the system. Faculty participation on a session must be arranged as part of the orientation process. As stated in the mission, South College is committed to integrating technology in teaching and learning. Not only does this assist the College in remaining competitive, a solid 21st century education requires that institutions of higher education offer contemporary modes of delivery that constantly engage students. 6.11 FINAL EXAMINATIONS Final examinations are given during the last week of each quarter. The examination schedule is posted and is based upon the time and day of the regular class meeting. Faculty members should not deviate from the posted final examination schedule unless permission is given by the Dean/Chair and the Executive Vice President/Provost. Final exams are required for all classes. Exams should be comprehensive and faculty members are encouraged to consider using multiple test question formats. Faculty members are required to remain on campus for the full time allotted for final examinations. Because students are allowed two weeks after the end of an academic term to challenge a course grade, faculty members must keep all test and examination papers for at least three weeks after an academic term ends. 6.12 GRADE CHANGES Any grade change requires the signature of the faculty member on the appropriate form. The change of grade form should also include a grade calculation for the students since the original grade sheet submitted shows the previous calculation. The faculty member should also indicate the reason for the change. Completed forms must be submitted to the Registrar. In the event that a faculty member is unable to complete a grade change due to mitigating circumstances, a Dean/Chair may complete the required materials. The grade of complete must be cleared by the end of the first week of the following quarter unless the faculty members gives written notice to the Executive Vice President/Provost of the reason for the delay and an estimated time of completion.


6.13 GRADE REPORTING Faculty members must submit an official grade sheet at the end of each quarter for each course taught. This sheet is provided by the College. Letter grades for each student must be recorded on the sheet and should correspond with the grading criteria for the course. Accompanying the grade sheet must be a grade calculation worksheet identifying how each student’s grade was determined. This worksheet must identify each grade earned, provide the associated numerical grade, and indicate the date of the evaluation measure (e.g., date of test, date paper due, date of presentation). A keyed copy of the final examination must also be submitted with the final grade information. Submitted grade sheets and grade calculation forms must be signed and dated when submitted to the office of the Registrar. All required grade information must be submitted no later than the posted deadline for each quarter. Students are allowed fourteen calendar days from the end of finals week to challenge a final grade. The faculty member, the Dean/Chair, and the Dean of Student Services must be notified of the challenge. 6.14 GUEST SPEAKERS/FIELD TRIPS Faculty members are encouraged to utilize the various resources available in the local community. Activity forms should be completed and submitted to the appropriate Dean/Chair whenever speakers are visiting the campus or field trips are taken. 6.15 HOLIDAYS/VACATIONS Vacation periods are determined by the quarter beginning and ending dates published in the academic calendar. Faculty members receive an average of four weeks of vacation each year. Various legal holidays are also observed during the year. These dates are indicated on the college calendar. Vacation taken during breaks must be arranged with the Dean/Chair in advance. 6.16 LIBRARY Library hours are posted for faculty and student reference. Faculty members are urged to consult with the College librarians before making library assignments so that the necessary materials may be made available. Faculty members are also urged to make suggestions for requested media and to incorporate library work in the class assignments. Faculty members are welcome to take library materials for personal use but are required to sign out materials with the librarians or library assistants. Books can be checked out for a full quarter. Prior to the quarter's end, faculty members will receive notice of when the books are due. Any faculty member who does not return his or her books by the required


date will be charged the cost of the book. See Appendix A of this Faculty Handbook for additional information. 6.17 MEETINGS Mandatory faculty meetings are scheduled prior to the end of each quarter. Full-time faculty members are expected to attend these faculty meeting unless class is in session or the faculty member has a clinical or service commitment. Adjunct faculty members should make every effort to attend. Multiple faculty in-services are scheduled during each quarter as well. The purpose of inservices is the further development of faculty in areas relating to teaching, research, and service. Full-time faculty members are required to attend a minimum of two inservices per year, but should make every effort to attend as many as possible. Adjunct faculty members should make every effort to attend inservices. Each school/department has scheduled faculty meetings each quarter. Faculty members should ensure schedules allow for attendance at these meetings. 6.18 OFF-CAMPUS ACTIVITIES Periodically, South College faculty members arrange for field trips which relate to classroom material being covered or to the overall scope of a particular program. In order to promote safety during these activities, students will receive pertinent training prior to the activity occurring (e.g., universal precautions, security, and equipment usage). Several voluntary extra-curricular activities are also scheduled each quarter and some of these are also off-campus. The same policy outlined below applies to these activities as well. For off-campus activities, it is the responsibility of the faculty member and the students’ responsibility to arrange their own transportation both to and from the activity. South College does not provide transportation nor endorse any method of transportation. Where students decide to carpool, all liability is assumed by the driver of the associated vehicle, not the College. Faculty members are strictly prohibited from providing transportation to South College students to attend field trips and are subject to discipline up to and including discharge for failing to abide by this policy. Where circumstances warrant, the Executive Vice President/Provost may grant permission for a faculty member to provide transportation for a student to participate in an activity in which the faculty member is also participating. 6.19 OFFICES Work areas are provided for faculty members. Because of the arrangement and openness of the workspace, please be courteous and cognizant of noise.


6.20 OFFICE HOURS All full-time faculty members must submit to the applicable Dean/Chair and the Executive Vice President/Provost a schedule of office/class hours each quarter. Office hours should be scheduled in blocks of time - with a minimum 30-minute blocks whenever possible. Faculty members should adhere to these office hours except in the case of emergencies. Select institutional and committee meetings are scheduled for Friday’s during each year. Even if office hours are not scheduled for Fridays, these meetings must be attended by all full-time faculty members as appropriate (e.g., annual planning meeting for all staff and faculty, strategic planning committee meetings for designated members, in-services). Part-time faculty members are required at a minimum to be available fifteen minutes prior to class and fifteen minutes after class in order to meet with students. Students must have accessibility to faculty; therefore the syllabus and Moodle site for each course must contain the telephone number(s) and e-mail addresses which allow students to contact the faculty between class meetings. 6.21 OFFICE OF SPONSORED PROGRAMS AND RESEARCH South College seeks to provide a learning environment that promotes the personal, intellectual and professional development of all members of the College community. To this end, the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research (OSPR) encourages, assists, and supports faculty and staff who are seeking sponsorship for, or are engaged in, a broad range of externally funded projects.

The Office of Sponsored Programs and Research is responsible for identifying potential funding sources and communicating such information to the faculty and maintaining contacts with potential sponsors. In addition, the OSPR is responsible for proposal processing, ensuring prior to submission that proposals conform to all agency requirements, that the proposed financial arrangements are correct and consistent with the College’s requirements, and that special commitments have been subjected to prior internal review. OSPR is the keystone for grant and sponsored program administration, functioning as the liaison between the funding agency, faculty member, and other College offices and departments.

Policies and procedures relating to research and contract activities are posted on the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research webpage. Those participating in these activities are responsible for following these policies and procedures.

6.22 PRINTING Copiers are available at each campus for faculty members' use. In order to access the copiers, a South College Identification Card must be obtained which includes the required copier code. Faculty members are responsible for duplicating their own materials. Faculty should be cognizant and adhere to all copyright laws.


6.23 ROSTERS AND OTHER DOCUMENTATION Faculty members are required to submit accurate attendance/academic participation rosters each quarter to the office of the Registrar. The appropriate Dean/Chair should provide appropriate training for the completion of rosters. If a faculty member is in doubt about how to handle an unusual situation, please contact the Registrar. Rosters must be submitted by the indicated deadlines each quarter. Faculty members responsible for documentation of program requirements (e.g., clinical evaluations, competency documentation) must ensure accurate completion and submission per established deadlines. 6.24 SCHEDULING OF CLASSES Schedules of classes are prepared by the Executive Vice President and Provost with the assistance of the Deans/Chairs. These are distributed prior to pre-registration and posted on the faculty and student portals. 6.25 SOUTH COLLEGE IDENTIFICATION Each faculty member must have a South College Identification Card with them at all times on campus. This card includes the access code to be used for accessing copiers on campus. This access code should only be used by the faculty member to which it is assigned. If an identification card is lost, the faculty member must immediately notify the Department of Information Technology by submitting a HelpDesk ticket. 6.26 STUDENT ADVISEMENT Advising and mentoring students is a very important responsibility. Not only do faculty discuss the education program to include class scheduling recommendations, many times students discuss career and life goals and decisions. Faculty mentor students to become responsible professionals and citizens. Effective advising is essential for student success, retention of students, and appropriate progression to graduation. Undergraduate advising assignments include quarterly meetings with students for class scheduling and other formal/information meetings as needed. Graduate advising assignments may involve guidance relating to research/capstone requirements. 6.27 STUDENT ATTENDANCE South College does not have an institutional policy on student attendance at class sessions. A school/department or individual faculty members may establish attendance policies for their classes at their own discretion. The College will ask faculty members to indicate, per prescribed procedures, those students attending classes during the first week of each quarter and then to verify academic participation during the second week, fourth week for veteran students, and the seventh week for all students (midquarter classes – first and fourth weeks).


6.28 STUDENT REINSTATEMENT If following the seventh week of class and academic participation verification, a faculty member wishes to reinstate a student into any class, the Registrar must be notified immediately. 6.29 TECHNOLOGY Faculty members should continually seek to improve knowledge and usage of classroom and teaching technology through attendance at training sessions. Classroom technology should not be used without appropriate training. Moodle sites should be maintained to ensure continued class activity in the case of emergency necessitating cancellation of a class. 6.30 TEXTBOOK/SUPPLIES Routine office supplies are available in the faculty work area or from staff. Requests for additional textbooks, reference materials, and instructional aids should be submitted to the Dean/Chair or Bookstore Manager. Textbooks may not be requisitioned and charged to the College on the individual faculty member’s initiative.


APPENDIX A


THE LIBRARY: RESOURCES AND SERVICES Library Facilities Library facilities are located at both Lonas and Parkside campuses. The main campus library (Lonas) currently supports the physical therapist assistant, radiography, medical assisting, business, legal studies, criminal justice, and general education programs and courses. The Parkside campus library supports the elementary education, nursing, physician assistant, and pharmacy programs. The main campus library has a total seating capacity of 72 and the computer lab contains eighteen workstations. In addition, sixteen laptops are available for use in the library. All computer workstations are connected to a central laser printer, the Internet, and the library’s online catalog. The Parkside campus library seats 80 and has thirty-six computer workstations connected to a laser printer, plus sixteen laptops for library use, the Internet, and the library’s online catalog. Both campuses support a wireless network which allows Internet access to the laptops. Library Staff The college employs five professional librarians who hold graduate degrees in library and information science. Librarians assist students and faculty with their research, conduct training sessions, create helpful documents, and interact with students and faculty to ensure that library users become familiar with the access and use of library resources. The Head Librarian supervises the library department and is available 40 hours per week during the daytime. Both libraries employ a full-time librarian during daytime hours, Monday through Saturday. A librarian is available at each campus Monday through Thursday during evening hours. Additional clerical and professional assistance is hired as needed. Student assistants are employed at the library through work-study programs based on financial aid qualifications. Library Hours The hours for each library are set every quarter and adjusted as needed to meet the needs of the students, faculty, and class schedules. Each library is open sixty-eight hours per week The main campus library is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. while classes are in session. The Parkside campus library is open Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. every Saturday while classes are in session. The library’s evening and weekend hours ensure that students can use the library during non-class time. Library Holdings The library department is responsible for providing all students, faculty, and staff with a range of educational materials that support the curriculum objectives in all of the institution’s programs. The library collection is made up of books, journals, videos, CDs, DVDs, and online databases. Holdings are cataloged according to the Library of Congress system and can be accessed by a web-based online catalog. Special collections


include career planning for students, Juvenile Literature, Writing Across the Curriculum, and the Faculty Resource Center, a collection of materials about higher education. Library Borrowing Policies Circulating and Overdue Materials Students and faculty may check out materials from the library’s circulating collection. Students may borrow books for two weeks, journals for one week, and videos or DVDs for three days. Faculty may borrow any of these materials for two months. Daily fines are not charged on overdue material for students or faculty. Overdue notices are sent to students one week after the date due. As a professional courtesy, reminders of outstanding material are sent to faculty at the end of the quarter. Class Reserves Faculty may leave materials for students’ use on reserve in the library for one quarter at a time. Faculty may also put South College library materials on reserve for their classes. The faculty decides whether the item may circulate and for how long. Materials not belonging to South College library must be picked up at the end of the quarter. Information Technology Students and faculty at South College have access to learning resources through current information technologies that include CDs, DVDs, online databases, and the Internet. The library’s Moodle site connects to databases and online journals for all curricula. WESTLAW, an online legal database, covers statutes and cases at both the state and federal levels. ProQuest includes full text education, criminal justice, and psychology materials. Business Source Premier contains full text articles from business journals and other business resources. Tennessee Electronic Library includes full-text Gale databases for topics in general academic, health sciences, and business. CINAHL, Medline, and Health Source Nursing Academic databases include full text and indexing to journals in medicine, nursing, rehabilitation, and other health science fields. UpToDate and DynaMed cover the latest information in evidence based medicine. Micromedex and LexiComp provide current information on pharmaceuticals. The library also subscribes to academic collections of electronic books through EBSCO. Internet access is available at all library computer workstations. The library’s web page includes links, interlibrary loan and faculty request forms, and tutorials designed to assist students with their class research. Faculty is encouraged to suggest links to useful web pages for student assignments. Audiovisual Equipment The library has audiovisual equipment available for classroom use by faculty. Overhead projectors, TV/VCRs, remote controls and pointers for equipment in classrooms, are available at both campuses for day and evening classes. Reservations can be made by contacting the library staff. Reservations are on a first come, first served basis.


Interlibrary Loan Agreements South College is currently a member of TENN-SHARE, a statewide consortium of academic, medical, and law libraries that have agreed to share resources. Through this Tennessee Group Access Capability, and LYRASIS, the largest regional network of libraries in the country, South College has access via interlibrary loan to resources such as books and journal articles from other libraries throughout the state and region. Interlibrary loan request forms are available in the library and on the library’s web page. Requests to other libraries generally take a minimum of one to two weeks to process. Library Orientations and Classes General library orientations are given each quarter to students enrolled in College and Career Management, Introduction to Paralegalism, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Physical Therapist Assistant, Fundamentals of Healthcare, Introduction to Professional Nursing, Introduction to Business, and Introduction to Education. New students in the Physician Assistant and Pharmacy programs are given a library orientation during their orientation weeks. In these orientations, students are taught how to make the best use of the resources found in the South College libraries. Faculty can also request orientations or library research sessions tailored for their other classes by scheduling library time with the librarian at least two days in advance. Research time can be scheduled for both day and evening classes. Faculty Recommendations South College library strives to keep the library collection current by being responsive to the research needs of individual departments and courses. Faculty requests are accepted year round. New acquisitions are made by recommendations from faculty, administration, librarians, and library advisory committee members within the guidelines of the library’s collection development policy and annual budget. Faculty request forms can be downloaded from the library’s web page. Library personnel distribute library satisfaction surveys twice a year to students and annually to faculty to improve customer service and collection development.


Interlibrary Loan Policy Purpose Through membership in TENN-SHARE, a consortium of academic libraries in Tennessee, and LYRASIS, the nation’s largest network of regional libraries, South College Library is able to supplement its collection by providing interlibrary loan access to additional materials. Interlibrary loan services and policy directly support the research needs of students and the research and teaching needs of faculty at South College. Eligibility Students who are currently enrolled in on-campus or distance education classes at South College, and staff and faculty who are current South College employees are eligible to use interlibrary loan services. Use of this service must directly relate to course assignments, internship or clinical assignments, research or other educational activities related to the college or job assignments at South College. Submitting a Request All interlibrary loan requests must be made by filling out and submitting an online interlibrary loan request form located on the library’s interlibrary loan web page. The address for the web page containing the links to the forms for requesting journals, books, and dvds is: http://www.southcollegetn.edu/academics/library/resources/interlibrary-loans. The library will only fulfill requests from these submitted forms. The borrower is responsible for personally filling out the online forms completely and correctly. Complete information will help staff process requests without delays. In order for South College Library to comply with Section 108 of Federal copyright law, which directs libraries to keep three years worth of documentation of requests for copies, the borrower must fill out a separate form for each item requested. Requests will be processed in the order that they are received. South College Library cannot request any certain format for journal articles. Each lending library has its own policies on how they fulfill and deliver requests for journal articles. Some send them as a pdf file via email, and some photocopy and send them by regular mail. Number of Requests There is no limit to the number of requests to be made at one time or per quarter. However, in times of heavy usage of ILL services (such as midquarter or approaching the end of the quarter), the library staff may ask users to prioritize their requests. Costs The library will fund up to $10 of student ILL costs of ordering items. If the cost exceeds $10, the student will be notified and asked how to proceed, as the balance must be paid by the student. Costs for faculty are waived, but if an item has a high cost, the library may suggest purchasing that item for the library’s permanent collection. Delivery Time, Notifications, Pickups, and Returns A typical request takes from one to three weeks to arrive. However, this time depends on factors such as how long it takes to find a library that will lend the requested materials,


lending libraries’ policies for delivering materials, and availability of requested materials. The library will notify the borrower via their South College email account when their ILL is available for pickup. The item will be available for pickup during normal library hours of operation at the circulation desk of the campus that the borrower specified on the request form. ILL items may be returned to the library circulation desk at either campus. Distance education students who live 40 miles or more from Knoxville may request to have their interlibrary loans mailed to their home address, with the library funding the cost of mailing to the student’s home. These students will be responsible for the costs of mailing the ILL back to South College Library. Materials that are generally available through ILL Books, journal articles, DVDs. Materials that South College Library will not request through ILL South College Library will not request items that are part of its library collection, such as books, course textbooks, DVDs, or journal articles. If the desired material is checked out, users may place a hold or a recall on that material. Current course textbooks are available to use as non-circulating reference materials in the libraries. Materials that may not be available from other libraries through ILL Many libraries will not lend out materials from their reference collections, bound periodicals, recent issues or volumes of journals, newspapers, rare books, unpublished works, or audiovisual materials. The South College Library staff will do their best to locate a lender for requested materials. Loan Periods and Renewals The lending library decides the length of the loan period and may sometimes restrict use of items, such as limiting use to the on campus library facility only or disallowing any photocopying. The user is asked to respect and cooperate with their rules so that other libraries will continue to share their resources with South College. Renewals are also determined by the lending library. Most libraries will allow one renewal period, but some libraries may specify no renewals. Borrowers Responsibilities South College Library does not charge fines for overdue items. However, the borrower will be financially responsible for any late fees incurred from the lending library if the item is not returned to South College Library by the indicated due date. The borrower will also be financially responsible for any loss or damage to borrowed items from the time the item is picked up to the time it is returned to South College Library. Copyright Compliance When making any loan request, South College Library will follow the “Fair Use” guidelines of U.S. copyright law (Title 17 § 107). Due to copyright restrictions, no more than five articles from one journal title may be requested in one year. Requests exceeding the five per year limit may be subject to a copyright permissions fee per article; this fee is determined by the Copyright Clearance Center (http://www.copyright.com ). If the


library finds that it is receiving frequent requests for a particular journal title, it will consider purchasing a subscription.


Copyright Compliance Policy

South College Library adheres to all applicable laws and copyright compliance standards put forth in the U.S. Copyright Act (Title 17, U.S. Code), The Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998, and the Technology, Education, and Copyright Harmonizing (TEACH) Act of 2002. The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproduction of copyrighted material. Under certain conditions specified in the law, libraries and archives are authorized to furnish a photocopy or other reproduction. One of these specified conditions is that the photocopy or reproduction is not to be used for any purpose other than private study, scholarship, or research. If reproduction of copyrighted library material is used for purposes in excess of what constitutes “fair use”, that user may be liable for copyright infringement. Infringement of another individual’s copyright is a violation of federal law and may include fines and other penalties. According to Section 107, there are four factors used to determine fair use. Section 107 states: “In determining whether the use made of a work in any particular case is a fair use the factors to be considered shall include:

The purpose and character of the use, including whether such use is of a commercial nature or is for nonprofit educational purposes;

The nature of the copyrighted work; The amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted

work as a whole; and The effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted

work.” (17 U.S.C. § 107)

Faculty should review any requests to the library concerning reproduction of material for copyright compliance. When asking librarians to reproduce content from any copyright protected materials, faculty should be able to provide evidence of copyright compliance by permissions, or evidence of a good faith determination of “fair use” compliance.


APPENDIX B


BOOK CHANGE REQUEST FORM

Request Made By: _____________________________________ Date: ______________ Course for Which Change Requested if Proposed: ____________________________________________________ Current Textbooks Used: __________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________

Change Proposed (Please include Publisher and ISBN): __________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Reason(s) for Change: _____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Attached to this form must be: List of other colleges using this textbook Statements from other faculty who teach course Any documentation justifying need for change

Evaluation of Proposal

Dean/Department Chair: Executive VP/Provost: _____ Approved _____ Approved _____ Need for Additional Info _____ Need for Additional Info _____ Inappropriate Change _____ Inappropriate Change ____________________________________ __________________________________ Signature Date Signature Date


BOOK/DESK COPY REQUEST FORM

Please allow at least two to three weeks from the day this request is turned in for your book to arrive. If you need it sooner than this you must let the bookstore manager know. Please turn this form into your Dean/Department Chair for signature. The completed form should be turned into the bookstore. Faculty Member___________________________ Date__________________________ Course #_____________ Title____________________________________________ ISBN_________________________________________________________________________ (If the ISBN you have is from an instructor’s edition and you are requesting the student edition, or vice versa, you must note that) Author__________________________________________________________________ Publisher________________________________________________________________ Edition/Year_____________________________________________________________ Other___________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________ ________________________ Dean/Department Chair Date Date request received in bookstore_____________________ By ______________ Date book ordered_______________________ By ______________ Date book received______________________ By ______________


APPENDIX C


Syllabus Outline: This outline MUST be followed when completing all syllabi and was revised on May 20, 2014 (revisions are highlighted). Where indicated, standard course information must be taken from the administrative course outline. All revisions required following review must be made and resubmitted. All syllabi must be approved by the appropriate department chair/dean and reviewer (Lisa Satterfield or Barbara Brimi) before posting on the Moodle site. Additionally, all distance learning courses must also be approved by Jennifer Glaab.

SOUTH COLLEGE Quarter and Year

Course Name Course Number

*Below Course Number, add WF (Writing Focused Course), WI (Writing Intensive Course), or WID (Writing in the Discipline Course), if any one of these applies. For example: ENG 1200, WF, (Writing Focused Course).

Quarter Dates: Beginning and Ending Dates including Year Holidays: List if there are any holidays for the quarter even if your class does

not meet on one of the holidays Instructor: Name (required) and degree(s) if you wish to include – (optional) Class Schedule: Day (s) and Times Class Meets Office Hours: Must be included – Adjunct instructors should include office hours if

scheduled or at a minimum be available for 15 minutes before and after each class and other time by appointment

Contact Methods: (865) 251-XXXX or 293-XXXX or 288-XXXX and [email protected], and any other numbers or e-mails you to wish to include.

Credit Hours: Number of Credits for Course (if lab and lecture – please break out (ex. 2 lecture and 2 lab or 3 lecture and 1 lab)

Lab Hours: If Applicable - # per week during scheduled, supervised lab time Prerequisites: Be certain to delineate between Prerequisites, Co- requisites and

Suggested TEXT/STUDENT MATERIALS (Obtain from the Administrative Course Outline) Required textbooks for courses must be utilized.


UNIVERSAL COURSE POLICIES AND INFORMATION (UCPI) (Insert the following statement here.) The Universal Course Policies and Information (UCPI) document is an addition to the syllabus for each class and is posted on the Moodle site. Students are responsible for knowing and following the syllabus, and are also responsible for the material that is covered in the UCPI. The Academic Honor Code, the Food and Beverage Policy and the Dress Code are included in the UCPI along with resource information for obtaining academic and personal assistance and guidance on student technology accounts. COURSE DESCRIPTION (Obtain from the Administrative Course Outline – which must match the catalog) Must be identical to the course description on the administrative course outline. COURSE OBJECTIVES (Obtain from Administrative Course Outline) Must be identical to the course objectives on the administrative course outline. WRITING PORTFOLIO – GRADUATION REQUIRMENT In order to meet graduation requirements, each undergraduate student must submit three papers for his/her writing portfolio: one paper from English 1210, one paper from a Writing Intensive course, and one paper from a Writing in the Discipline course. It is the responsibility of the student to submit these papers to the respective faculty member at the end of each applicable quarter. The faculty member will then submit the assignments to the Writing Lab for filing. Exception: If a student receives transfer credit for English 1210, and /or for any Writing Intensive course, he/she will be exempt from submitting the papers from the required course in which transfer credit was awarded. INSTRUCTOR-MODIFIED INFORMATION PRESENTATION TECHNIQUES/TEACHING STRATEGIES In this section you need to describe the techniques used in the classroom such as lecture, group project, AV equipment used, etc. Student participation requirements may also be outlined here. EVALUATION Grading criteria are determined by the instructor in many cases. However testing should not be the only way a student’s grade is evaluated (unless there is a valid reason) and the final exam should not count more than 30% of the final grade. Some departments have standardized grading criteria for certain courses. Please check with your dean/department chair before modifying the grading criteria listed on the administrative course outline. In all cases, grading criteria chosen must provide the best overall evaluation of students – course objectives and learning levels that students are expected to reach must be considered. The criteria must include number of tests, projects, papers, and % that EACH counts toward total average, etc. If class participation is used as a grading criterion, the syllabus should clearly explain how the grade for class participation will be determined. For any projects, papers, presentations, etc. – the directions for completion, the specifics and the method for grading MUST be included in the syllabus. If a rubric is used it must also be included. Students must be informed of the purpose, the format expected, the kinds of items which will be included in grading and % for each. The penalty for submitting papers, projects, homework, or presentations late must be included. If papers are not accepted late for any reason (no exceptions) that must be stated on the syllabus and the instructor


must stick to that policy. If a project includes a paper and presentation, please indicate the value of each in determining the grade. SUGGESTED WEEK-BY-WEEK SCHEDULE The administrative course outline has a suggested outline for presentation of course content. Ultimately, the order of presentation is up to the instructor, but all course content listed must be covered. Please include chapter/topics to be covered, planned activities, test dates (including final examination), due dates for assignments, library visits, guest speaker dates or field trip dates, etc. Please make certain the college calendar has been reviewed and any holidays considered when planning the class meeting dates. Note any make-up days scheduled. Please add this statement (or one similar) to your syllabus at the beginning of or within the Week-by-Week Schedule.

Two weeks before finals, course evaluations will be available online. Please take the time to complete the evaluation because your feedback is important. Following the weekly schedule the statement from the administrative course outline regarding the ability of the instructor to change the schedule must be included. Since the course syllabus becomes a written, legal covenant between the instructor and students in the course, the following caveat must be included at the end of the week-by-week schedule. In the event of extenuating circumstances, the above schedule and the procedures for this course are subject to change. CLASS POLICIES Policies specific to the instructor should be included such as attendance policy, make-up policy, late work penalty if appropriate, how tardiness is counted if appropriate, etc. These policies should be in writing and should be firmly upheld. All students should be treated fairly and one not given special treatment over another. It is required that a copy of all syllabi be submitted to the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services shortly after the beginning of each quarter. Any changes made to a syllabus following its distribution should be submitted to all students in writing and posted on the Moodle site. A copy of the written change should be submitted in an Addendum to the Syllabus to the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services. RUBRICS If you are going to use a rubric, include it after the class policies.


APPENDIX D


SOUTH COLLEGE

CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION OF FACULTY PERFORMANCE Faculty member performance is evaluated annually in a formal review process. Evaluation of faculty performance plays a critical role in determining adjustment in compensation, academic and administrative assignments, progression in faculty rank, professional development needs, and continued employment. Faculty members are evaluated annually on their performance across a wide range of responsibilities and activities in teaching, research/scholarly activity, and service. The annual cycle of the faculty performance evaluation process begins with the setting of performance objectives for the upcoming academic year that addresses each component of the academic trilogy plus professional development objectives. The annual objectives of each faculty member are developed, discussed and agreed with his/her supervisor and should contribute to, and advance the objectives, goals and strategic plan of their respective school, department, or function. Because effective objective and goal setting is necessarily a top-down process, those department goals will be consistent with the goals, mission and overall strategy of the school/department and South College. Typically annual performance objectives for an upcoming year will be developed for discussion at the time of the performance review meeting between the faculty member and his/her Department Chair; or within two weeks of the performance review upon mutual agreement. The original, signed evaluation form should be sent to the Executive Vice President and Provost and will be retained in the personnel file. At the end of each year, faculty performance will be assessed relative to accomplishment of the objectives agreed at the beginning of that year and overall performance relative to the job description. This begins with a detailed self-evaluation by each faculty member. Deans/Chairs review the self-evaluation and then completes his/her supervisor evaluation, giving feedback to the faculty members on their past accomplishments and identifying areas for improvement. They then help each faculty member set reasonable, attainable goals for the coming year. By reviewing each faculty member’s evaluation plan, the Deans/Chairs can help the faculty members work collectively toward common goals while, assuring each member the independence to pursue their individual agendas. Data used to support the performance review comes from a variety of sources including faculty self assessment, teaching evaluations from students, peer evaluation of classroom performance, evidences of service and scholarship activities, and evaluation from the Dean/Chair. External input on individual faculty member’s performance, beyond required peer and student assessment, may be solicited and considered by the faculty member and the Dean/Chair, if relevant.


Student Evaluations of faculty effectiveness are collected throughout the year to provide faculty members with timely feedback and contribution to the performance review process. Peer evaluation of classroom performance will be conducted annually for all faculty members delivering more than 10% of the content of a single course. Based on these assessments, faculty members will be given the opportunity to complete additional development activities, such as attending appropriate inservices or training sessions, attending conferences or courses that have development content deemed appropriate for determined needs, and/or arranging for mentoring of new faculty in on or more areas. The process utilized by the institution assist Deans/Chairs in determining appropriate individual and collective needs of the faculty to ensure improvement initiatives.

Adjunct Faculty Performance Evaluation Adjunct who have appointments to teach for four or more continuous quarters are subject to an Annual Review of Performance, utilizing the evaluation tools and criteria established for full-time faculty. Adjunct faculty shall be evaluated by their supervisor, at least annually on their overall performance in carrying out their assigned duties during the evaluation period. The annual evaluation of adjunct faculty must be completed within 90 calendar days of the end of the evaluation period, which is the fiscal year of the appointment (October 1 through September 30). The employee’s primary, immediate supervisor shall prepare a written evaluation of the adjunct faculty’s performance including components of student, self, and peer assessment. Every effort should be made to obtain the adjunct’s signature on the evaluation as an acknowledgment of receipt, and those efforts must be documented to in cases where the school/department is unable to secure the adjunct faculty signature. The original, signed evaluation form should be sent to the Executive Vice President and Provost and will be retained in the personnel file. If the evaluation reveals a performance deficiency, several remedial courses of action may occur to address the deficiency, including:

instruction, coaching, or counseling by the supervisor training and assistance in preparation of syllabi, exams, assignments, etc. required attendance at seminars, workshops or training sessions that

address the area(s) of performance deficiency(ies) discontinuation of future services as adjunct faculty

REVISED MAY2014


APPENDIX E


SOUTH COLLEGE END OF QUARTER PROCEDURES

FINAL EXAMS - Final exams must be given during the final exam time indicated on the published class schedule. Faculty members appropriately assigning research projects or papers for the final examination must make them due in class during the scheduled final exam time (see FERPA note below). FERPA – Due to the provisions of this act, please do not ask students to submit assignments in open mailboxes or in any other unattended public venues (boxes in the hallway, envelopes taped to doors, etc). Graded assignments for student retrieval likewise should not be made available in such public venues. Grades should not be posted publicly using student ID numbers or Social Security Numbers, nor should the students' names be linked with their IDs in any public manner. Do not e-mail student grades – once submitted, grades are available to students via the Student Portal. GENERAL DIRECTIONS FOR SUBMITTING FINAL GRADES ALL GRADE MATERIALS MUST BE TURNED IN ON TIME. DELAYS IN TURNING IN THESE MATERIALS CAUSE DELAYS IN THE PREPARATION OF STUDENT GRADE REPORTS AND THE COMPLETION OF SATISFACTORY PROGRESS EVALUATION. GRADES AND GRADE MATERIALS MAY NOT BE FAXED. ALL MATERIALS TURNED IN MUST BE ORIGINALS, MUST DISPLAY THE ORIGINAL SIGNATURE OF THE FACULTY MEMBER, AND MUST BE TURNED IN PERSONALLY. Grades are available to students through the Student Portal. No grade cards will be mailed. Grades are not given out over the telephone. SCHEDULE: All items for full and midquarter classes are due by the posted deadline. No exceptions will be granted unless cleared with Dr. Hall prior to final examinations. As you complete your grades, please turn them in. Do not wait and hold all class grades until the deadline. It is helpful if we can begin the data entry of the grades as soon as possible. The items below must be submitted to Kim Wood, or Tristen Deangelo-Hicks, at 3904 Lonas Drive by the stated deadline for the quarter. Grades may be submitted to the librarians at the Parkside campus, 400 Goody’s Lane, by the stated deadline. PLEASE DO NOT PLACE GRADES IN KIM HALL’S MAILBOX AT EITHER CAMPUS OR LEAVE IN THE LIBRARY AT PARKSIDE - THESE ARE NOT SECURE LOCATIONS. PLEASE PERSONALLY GIVE TO KIM WOOD, OR TRISTEN DEANGELO-HICKS, AT THE MAIN CAMPUS. IF NO ONE IS


AVAILABLE, PLEASE SEE THE FRONT DESK. GRADES MUST BE PERSONALLY GIVEN TO A LIBARIAN AT THE PARKSIDE CAMPUS. ITEMS TO BE SUBMITTED: Final Computer Generated Grade Sheet – MUST BE SIGNED Grade Calculation Sheets Listing Student’s Numerical Grades for Quarter – MUST BE SIGNED Keyed Copy of Final Exam – MUST BE SIGNED PLEASE BE CERTAIN THAT THE ABOVE ITEMS ARE COMPLETED AND RETURNED ACCORDING TO THE DIRECTIONS BELOW. ***FINAL ADMINISTRATIVELY GENERATED GRADE SHEET 1. The administratively generated Grade Sheets will be placed in your box at

the beginning of finals. All final letter grades must be placed on these sheets and turned in. These sheets will be used to enter grades into the computer.

2. Sign and date each Grade Sheet turned in. 3. Please list a grade for every student on your sheet, including any student who

has withdrawn from your course. If the student has never attended your class, indicate by assigning a letter grade of WX (which should not occur but on VERY rare occasions. The only students on your roster are those who you indicated through earlier rosters as having attended your class at least once). Please be certain to list a grade for all students who have withdrawn from your course.

4. If a student has been erroneously listed as “dropped,” please correct and

indicate the grade earned. Add the name of any student who is not listed; denote any names that are present but shouldn’t be.

5. Check withdrawal grade assignments for accuracy. Assign the following

grades for withdrawn students: a WP if the student did not academically participate past the 3rd week of class, a WP if the student academically participated in weeks 4-10 and the student was passing at the time in which this participation ceased, or a WF if a student academically participated in weeks 4-10 and the student was failing at the time this participation ceased.

6. Do not give a student a WF unless the student stopped academically

participating after the last day of the third week of the quarter and the student was failing at the time. It is very important that WF’s be given accurately as they are averaged into the quarterly and cumulative GPA as zeros. At the time of finals, a student missing over the allowed number of class hours who has not been reinstated is considered to have dropped the course.

7. Incompletes given for the current quarter must be cleared by the end of the

first week of classes the following quarter. Incompletes should only be


given when mitigating circumstances affected the student’s ability to complete the coursework on time. Incompletes which are not removed by the time indicated will be changed to “F’s”. (Extensions may be granted if requested in writing by the instructor for reasonable amounts of time). Please keep track of all incompletes and ensure they are cleared by the appropriate times. Adjunct faculty not teaching next quarter should keep in touch with appropriate dean/department chair in order to clear any incompletes given.

***GRADE CALCULATION SHEETS 1. Submit signed and dated grade calculation sheets for each class. These must

be NEAT AND EASILY UNDERSTOOD. Handwritten grade calculation sheets are not preferred. MAKE CERTAIN COURSE NAME, NUMBER, QUARTER, AND INSTRUCTOR NAME APPEARS AT THE TOP.

2. Be certain to have a clearly marked final grade column for each class

(numerical grades). 3. Grades for each grading criteria used should be clearly reflected on grade

calculation sheet. For example: if 4 tests are given, four test grades should be listed on the grade calculation sheet and an average for that criterion noted – if a participation grade is given, the grade should be reflected on the grade calculation sheet. The value percentage for each grading criterion should be noted somewhere on the sheet.

4. Dates must be indicated for all grades given such as for tests, quizzes, projects,

reports, presentations, etc. 5. All students on your roster for the quarter MUST be included in your grade

calculation sheet – even those who have dropped. We need to have justification for the grade of WP or WF that you give these students.

***FINAL EXAM

1. Submit a signed and dated keyed copy of the final exam administered for each different subject. (Final exams are required for each course. All final exams should be comprehensive and be designed for 1 hour completion by average students. Instructors should be present throughout the entire examination. Final exams should be given only during the times assigned in the final examination schedule distributed to faculty.) PLEASE MAKE CERTAIN THAT ALL FINAL EXAMS INCLUDE THE CORRECT AND COMPLETE COURSE NAME, COURSE NUMBER, QUARTER, AND FACULTY MEMBER.

NOTE: If giving an essay final exam – a key is still required. Please indicate key topics/points you would be looking for in grading this type of exam.


2. Students should complete all final exams as scheduled each term. In the case that a student has mitigating circumstances that arise causing this to be impossible, the student should be given an incomplete for the course and a make-up final examination scheduled during the quarter break. Please keep in mind that mitigating circumstances must be legitimate and documentable for this action. A student choosing to schedule a trip to the beach would not normally be an acceptable mitigating circumstance. If a student is requesting to take a final early, the student should put the request in writing to Dean Brimi. Dean Brimi will evaluate, discuss with the appropriate instructor(s), and communicate the decision. Early finals require the construction of an alternative final examination and therefore more work for the instructor(s).

MATERIALS If you will need textbooks, manuals, tests, sample syllabi, etc., for new courses, please request them from your Dean/Department Chair as soon as possible.


APPENDIX F


STUDENT CONDUCT STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS

Conduct Standards and Regulations The following standards and regulations have been adopted by South College to insure the safety and well being of the student body and the college facilities. Any student found guilty of an infraction will be accorded due process as explained in the Disciplinary Procedures section of this handbook. 1. Academic Irregularity – All students shall abide by the South College Academic Honor Code (See preceding section)

A. No student college sponsored work experience (internships or field project) shall leave his/her worksite without express permission of the supervisor in charge.

B. A student questioning grading policy should first discuss the matter with the instructor involved, continue to the department chair, and proceed to the Dean of Student Services for further recourse, if necessary.

2. Falsification of Records No student shall alter, forge, counterfeit, or cause to be altered, forged, or counterfeited, any records, documents, or forms in use at South College. 3. Financial Responsibility Students are expected and required to meet all financial obligations to South College while enrolled. The college reserves the right to prohibit any student from attending courses if financial arrangements are not made to the college’s satisfaction. 4. Computer Policy Students shall abide by the South College Computer Code of Ethics when using the college’s computer resources. As described in detail in the code, computers cannot be used in any manner that violates any local, state, or federal laws or infringes copyright provisions. Additionally, the use of computers to violate the welfare, safety, or privacy of students, faculty, administration, or others is prohibited. 5. Damage to Property The willful and malicious damage or destruction of South College property (buildings, its contents, and the outside physical area surrounding the buildings) is prohibited. Students are obligated to pay for all property damage caused by improper use. 6. Theft No student shall take, attempt to take, possess, or sell any property that is not his/her own, without appropriate authorization. 7. Firearms and Weapons Students are prohibited from possession and use of firearms or other weapons while on any South College campus or at any off-campus college sponsored activity. Exception:


Certified law enforcement officers who are enrolled at South College must register with the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services each quarter. 8. Drug-Free School Policy (Including Alcohol) It is the policy of South College to maintain a safe and healthy environment for its students and employees. Thus, any student who is intoxicated or is under the influence of any drug or controlled substance including alcoholic beverages, or who misuses legally prescribed or “over the counter” drugs will be subject to disciplinary action. Additionally, the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of drugs or alcohol is prohibited on any South College campus, in any of the college’s buildings, or as a part of any college-related activities (such as field trips, internships, or social activities). Such illegal use of drugs is a violation of local, state, and federal laws. If any of these violations do occur, further disciplinary action may occur in the form of immediate dismissal from South College, and /or mandatory counseling or rehabilitation by an appropriate agency. Additional information relating to this policy is distributed at the new student orientation sessions conducted each quarter. 9. Disorderly Assembly No person shall assemble on campus for the purpose of creating a riot or destruction that interferes with or undermines the effective operation of the college. 10. Disorderly Conduct Any conduct that is disorderly or obscene or that causes a breach of peace on campus or at any college-sponsored function is prohibited and should be reported immediately to the Dean of Student Services. The following are samples of disorderly conduct:

a. No student shall disrupt a class session in progress. b. No person shall strike, push, or physically assault any student, faculty, staff,

or visitor to the campus. c. No student shall attempt to enter any college-sponsored event without proper

identification, as determined necessary by the college. d. Oral or written conduct or expressions that slander, harass, demean, degrade,

bully, discriminate, or threaten and/or are offensive to the prevalent standards of the college or its community is prohibited.

e. Other actions deemed inappropriate in a college setting. 11. Sexual Harassment South College does not sanction, nor will it tolerate, any behavior by faculty, staff, or students that constitutes sexual harassment. Any student who feels that he or she has been the victim of sexual harassment is strongly encouraged to report the incident immediately to a college official (the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services or the Dean of Student Services, if available). 12. Dress Code The South College dress code is applicable to all students, day or evening and is in effect at all times that the student is present on campus or is on a class field trip. This includes class times, laboratory hours, study days, final examinations, or visitation to the campus


for other reasons. Students failing to adhere to the college dress code will be asked to leave campus and will be counted absent from course time missed. Additionally, students will be expected to adhere to the dress code

I. Attire While On-Campus or on Class Field Trips Clothing worn by students should be neat, clean, and in good repair for the

personal health and safety of students. Clothing that detracts from the learning process and/or is offensive to the

campus environment must not be worn. A. Students shall not wear: Shorts, skorts, or skirts more than 3 inches above the knee. Spandex shorts or pants, Underarmor, or clothing made of similar

materials. Clothing that is see-through, frayed or has holes. Shirts/tops that do not cover the midriff, back, shoulders, or chest. Shirts/tops that do not cover the waistband of pants, shorts, or skirts. Jewelry that could be used as weapons (wallet chain, etc.). Extra long belts or ones that hang loosely. In some courses, such as allied health courses and computer-related

courses, students may be asked to remove jewelry as appropriate. B. Appropriate footwear is required at all times. C. Undergarments should not be visible.

II. Attire for Off-Campus Student Services Activities

For off-campus activities such as Deans Excursions and student organization events, students are to remember that although they are not on-campus, they are representing the school and should dress appropriately for the activity.

III. Internship, Clinical, and Work-Study Attire

Students assigned to college-sponsored worksites are expected to follow appropriate dress codes as outlined by their instructor and the worksite. Students should be aware that they represent South College and should dress in a professional manner.

13. Food and Beverages The eating and drinking of foods and beverages is prohibited in all college buildings except in the student break areas. Receptacles for trash are provided in these areas. 14. Smoking/Other Tobacco Use Smoking, chewing tobacco, or dipping snuff are prohibited on the college campus except in personal vehicles. The use of all tobacco products is not allowed in the buildings or on the campus grounds. 15. Parking The parking lots are used by students and college employees on a first-come, first-serve basis. Students may not park in any spaces which are reserved for faculty and staff.


There are also spaces designated for the handicapped (a valid state-issued sticker, plate or hang-tag must be displayed on the vehicle). A South College Parking Decal must be displayed at all times. Violation of campus parking policies may result in the towing of associated vehicles. 16. Student I.D. The use of a student identification card by anyone other than its original holder is prohibited. Lending, selling, or otherwise transferring a student identification card is also prohibited. Students are asked to have their Student I.D. with them anytime they are on campus and may be asked to show it. 17. Student Activities All out-of-class functions require approval by the Dean of Student Services. All fund raising activities must be submitted on the appropriate form to the Student Service staff for approval prior to the activity. 18. Visitors/Children Unauthorized visitors may be asked to leave if their presence is disruptive to the orderly operation of the college. In order to maintain an environment conducive to studying and to protect their safety, children are not allowed in South College classes, labs, or in the libraries. Only on rare occasions are children allowed in the student centers, in offices (other than Financial Aid offices), or in the front lobby for an extended period of time. Disciplinary Procedures Undergraduates Alleged violations of the Student Conduct Standards and Regulations or other student misconduct shall be referred to the Dean of Student Services. The Dean may convene a preliminary conference with one Dean/Department Chairperson and the student involved to consider the complaint. The conference members may recommend the following options: 1. No action is warranted; 2. An administrative reprimand which may be recorded on the student’s permanent record; 3. Disciplinary probation which may be recorded on the student’s permanent record; 4. Dismissal from the college. The student will be informed in writing of the decision within three working days of the conference. Graduate Students If an alleged violation is committed by a graduate student, the Dean of Student Services will meet with the graduate student’s Dean/Department Chair and/or Advisor to determine how the matter should be handled. If the alleged violation is a breech of the college’s Conduct Standards and Regulations, the Dean will convene a preliminary conference with the program representative (Dean or Advisor) and the student. The


options will be the same as those for undergraduates (listed above). If the alleged violation is a breech of the program’s professional conduct regulations, the incident will be dealt with by the specific program. If the violation related to both the college’s and the program’s conduct regulations, the program will handle the situation according to its procedures. Appeal Procedures If the student is not satisfied with the decision, and an appeal is desired for disciplinary actions, academic situations, and/or penalties imposed for a violation of the South College Academic Honor Code, the following procedures will be followed. Undergraduate Students

He or she may petition the decision by requesting a hearing before the College Conduct Committee. The request must be made in writing to the Dean of Student Services within three working days of the notice. The request must include the student’s reasons for the petition including mitigating circumstances as well as the student’s contact information including email address. If no request is made, the decision is final.

After a request is made for a hearing, the Dean of Student Services will provide the student with the information that will be necessary for the student to submit an official appeal as well as go over the procedures that will be followed during the hearing.

Once the appeal letter is received, the student will be notified by email and certified mail (when possible) of: 1. the nature of the charges; 2. the time and date of the hearing; 3. the right to present applicable evidence in her/his behalf.

The committee will review the case. Members of the committee are appointed annually, except for the student member who is appointed as hearings are needed. The chair of the committee is the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services. As the facilitator of the hearing, she is a neutral party and has no vote on the decision. Voting members of the committee include: 1. the Executive Vice President; 2. a Dean/Department Chair; 3. one student; 4. one faculty member; and 5. one staff member.

The review shall consist of a careful and thorough hearing. A final determination, by majority vote, will recommend one of the following actions: 1. removal of the charges against the student; 2. administrative reprimand; 3. disciplinary probation, which may or may not be recorded on the student’s

permanent record; 4. disciplinary suspension for a specified period of time; 5. dismissal from the college; or


6. other action the committee deems appropriate. The Committee’s decision will be sent by certified mail to the student within ten working days of the hearing. Graduate Students If the Dean of Student Services was part of the decision-making process, the procedures listed above for undergraduate students will be followed. If the decision was made on the program-level, the student may appeal the decision of the program to the Executive Vice- President. Reports In all cases in which disciplinary suspension or dismissal from the college has been determined, a copy of the proceedings will be sent to the President of the college and placed in the student’s file. Additional Appeal Procedures The student may appeal the decision of the committee to the President. The appeal must:

1. be written; 2. include the student’s evidence on his/her behalf; 3. summarize the statements of the accuser; and 4. be submitted within five calendar days after notification.

After consideration of the committee report and the student’s appeal, the President shall, within ten days after receipt, make his decision. This decision is final.


APPENDIX G


SOUTH COLLEGE Instructions for New Faculty

Parking, dress code, breaks, and class times 1. Parking is available at the main campus and at the west learning site. Please obtain a

South College Parking Decal from the front desk at the main campus and display at all times.

2. Professional attire is required of all faculty and students as outlined in the Employee, Faculty and Student Handbooks.

3. Food and drinks are not allowed in the hallways or classrooms at any time. Please remind your students of this rule if necessary.

4. Hold classes for the full class period – beginning and ending promptly. It is most professional to arrive at your classroom at least ten-fifteen minutes early.

Student Participation 1. If at any time requesting students to communicate contact information (addresses,

home numbers, e-mails, etc.), please do so on individual information forms. Please DO NOT pass around a general sheet or use your computer-generated roster. The information on the list may be private and should not be viewed by other students in the class.

2. South College does not have an attendance policy. Each faculty member may set a policy for his or her own classroom. This policy should be outlined in the syllabus and made clear to all students. It is the faculty member’s responsibility to enforce the policy.

3. Faculty members will be asked to take attendance for students during the first week of each quarter. Forms provided should be returned to the Registrar by the date indicated. Faculty will then be asked to indicate any students not academically participating in their classes at the end of the second and seventh week of each quarter. Forms will be provided and must be returned to the Registrar as well.

4. Please check for student messages on your voice mail when you get in and before you leave the school. Call in on other days to make certain that you get any messages from students who would like for you to call them back before your next class meeting.

5. Faculty members are asked to attempt to call and/or e-mail students absent from class. If they cannot be reached after missing two classes, the Student Services Department should be contacted.

6. Faculty members are responsible for setting make-up policies for their classes. If make-up exams are allowed, each faculty member is responsible for administering these to those students who require them.

Academic Matters 1. All syllabi must follow the South College Syllabus Outline.


2. Please give a copy of your syllabus to your Dean/Chair per the established deadline. The syllabus must be approved by the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services prior to posting on the Moodle site.

3. Your syllabus for each class and the universal procedures document must be posted to the Moodle site 5 days prior to the course beginning. .

4. You must give your students a comprehensive final exam on the final exam date. Do not arbitrarily change the time of your exam. You will be asked to turn in a keyed copy of your final exam to the Registrar when you turn in your final grades. Faculty should never leave the room during a final examination.

5. Keep a good record of student performance in your classes. At the end of each quarter, you will be asked to submit a Grade Calculation Form listing all your students (including those who have withdrawn), all the assignments, numerical grades for each assignment, dates of all assignments, cumulative numerical grade for each student, and an explanation of the grade composition.

6. You are encouraged to plan field trips and/or to bring in invited speakers. Forms for such activities can be found in your Faculty Handbook. Please allow your Dean/Department Chair a few days to review and approve your plan. Please also note the college’s policies in the Employee Handbook and Faculty Handbook for off-campus activities.

7. If you need to hold class in the library (if students are expected to do research), please schedule the visit ahead of time.

8. You must complete training prior to utilization of classroom technology. When in doubt, ask IT prior to performing activities that could damage the equipment.

9. Copies of course materials can be made on campus. Faculty should make copies needed for classes as soon as possible, particularly during busy times such as the beginning of the quarter and final examination week.

10. Faculty should pay close attention to all e-mails and respond accordingly. 11. Any materials needed for class should be requested in advance by notifying the

Dean/Department Chair. Report any malfunctioning equipment (e.g., projectors, computers, copier, etc.) immediately so that correction action can be taken by submitting a HelpDesk ticket.

Student questions and issues 1. If you are having a problem with a student, please report it to your Dean/Department

Chair. 2. All academic participation issues should be reported to the Dean of Student Services as

described in the Student Participation section above. 3. If a student is doing poorly in your class and, as a result, may fail the class, please

inform your Dean/Department Chair of the situation. 4. If a student comes to a Dean/Department chair, the Dean of Student Services, the

Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services, or the Executive Vice President/Provost with a complaint about a class for reasons other than harassment or discrimination, we invariably advise the student to talk to the faculty member first. If an issue is not resolved, we are available to help in any way.


5. If students have questions about their majors, please advise them to see their Dean/Department Chair (listed by program below) or their assigned advisor within the program.

Business Administration or

Accounting Mr. Chip Bailey

Education Dr. Phyliss Noah Health Science Dr. Karen Goss Imaging Sciences Ms. Lisa Satterfield Medical Assisting Ms. Anna Fritz Nursing Dr. Shu-li Chen

Paralegal/Legal Studies/ Ms. Jennifer Jenkins, Esquire Criminal Justice Pharmacy Dr. Walter Fitzgerald

Physical Therapist Assistant Ms. Kelly Nash Physician Assistant Dr. Ken Harbert

6. If students have questions about their general studies requirements, please advise

them to see the General Studies Department Chair, Dr. Jodi Rightler-McDaniels. 7. Remind students that they are always welcome at the offices of the Dean of Student

Services, Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services, Director of Academic Support, and the Executive Vice President/Provost.

Activities, clubs, special events 1. The institution plans a study breaks every quarter during final exams. Students are

offered snacks and drinks. 2. Student clubs regularly organize activities. Please see the Student Activities

Coordinator with any questions regarding student clubs. 3. A college-wide faculty meeting is always held at the end of each quarter to prepare

for the upcoming quarter. All faculty scheduled to teach the upcoming quarter are required to attend. Look at the South College Academic Year Calendar for dates and times.

4. Pre-registration takes place on the 7th week of classes. The course schedule for the upcoming quarter is published at the beginning of pre-registration.

5. Challenge Exams for the following courses are offered during weeks 5 and 9 of each quarter: Business Communications, English Composition, English Composition with


Research, Keyboarding, College Mathematics I, College Mathematics II, Introduction to Computers, Medical Terminology, Spreadsheet Applications, Introduction to Word Processing.

REMEMBER:

1. Be prepared for each and every class period. The students will follow your lead.

2. Show enthusiasm for the subject matter. The students will again follow your lead.

3. Ask for help when needed. 4. Have high expectations, as students frequently deliver what is expected of

them. Allowing students to earn acceptable grades for unacceptable work is unfair to the student and to the college. The student thinks he or she has the skills needed and the college will have this student representing us. We want our representatives to have what they need.

5. Be fair. If you allow one student an opportunity for extra credit, you must give all students this opportunity.

6. Follow college policy and procedures.


APPENDIX H


SOUTH COLLEGE ACADEMIC HONOR CODE PURPOSE OF THE HONOR CODE The primary purpose of the South College Academic Honor Code (the “Honor Code”) is to promote individual student honor and integrity in the best traditions of higher education. The Honor Code aims to ensure that students understand expectations and responsibilities and agree to conduct all academic activities in compliance with the principles set forth in the Honor Code. APPLICATION OF THE HONOR CODE The Honor Code applies, as may be applicable to the student, to the following:

1. Tests or examinations, including challenge examinations. 2. Oral, written, or practical reports that are a part of a student’s academic program. 3. Classroom, laboratory, clinical, student teaching, or experiential activities. 4. Research activities. 5. Unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, illegal downloading and unauthorized distribution of

copyrighted materials using the institution’s information technology system (applies to academic work).

6. Other activities not listed above that are a part of a South College academic, classroom, laboratory, clinical, student teaching, experiential, or research activity and that will be used as the basis for awarding of a grade.

This Honor Code governs the academic affairs of all programs at South College. Individual programs may impose additional requirements and standards for a student’s personal and/or professional responsibility and competency. VIOLATIONS OF THE HONOR CODE It is a violation of the Honor Code for a student to commit any of the following actions using any method, including but not limited to, talking, eye contact, gesturing, copying, and storing or transmitting of information by electronic technology.

1. Use, give, or receive or attempt to use, give, or receive any unauthorized aid using any medium, including electronic.

2. Plagiarize or infringe upon an intellectual property right. 3. Falsify data. 4. Collaborate with others in assigned activities outside of class when directed or instructed,

either in writing or verbally, that individual effort is required. 5. Record or report fraudulent data relating to academic, classroom, laboratory, clinical, student

teaching, experiential, or research activities, willfully neglect responsibilities associated with such activities, or otherwise place at risk the interests of those offering and/or supervising the activity, or a patient, or a client.

6. Assist another student in committing a violation of the Honor Code. 7. Report another student for a violation of the Honor Code without information to support

such a report. 8. Exit from and re-enter an examination room without authorization. 9. Steal, possess, misappropriate, share, or use or attempt to steal, possess, misappropriate,

share, or use any examinations or other materials relating to an academic, classroom, laboratory, clinical, student teaching, experiential, or research activity unless authorized or provided by a faculty member.

10. Share files with peers without authorization (applies to academic work). 11. Download or distribute copyrighted materials using the institution’s information technology

system without authorization (applies to academic work). 12. Engage in any other similar acts of dishonesty.


THE HONOR CODE PROCEDURE To ensure that students are treated equitably a faculty member witnessing or discovering a possible violation of the Honor Code shall carefully evaluate all available information in determining whether a violation has occurred. Upon determining that a violation has occurred the faculty member shall impose penalties as provided in the following section. In addition, any member of the South College community may file, with the Dean of Student Services, a report of a violation of the Honor Code if he or she believes there is information to support such a report. THE PENALTIES Imposed by a Faculty Member: A faculty member who determines that a student has violated the Honor Code will promptly consult with the Dean of Student Services to ascertain whether the student has a prior offense of violation of the Honor Code. The faculty member and/or the Dean of Student Services, as applicable, may impose a penalty based on whether the violation is a first, second, or third offense as set forth below. First Offense of Violation of the Honor Code: The student may be given a grade of “0” for the examination, assignment, or other activity with the possibility of an “F” for the course at the discretion of the faculty member, and in addition, may be placed on probation or suspended for a specified period by the Dean of Student Services. If in the opinion of the Dean of Student Services, the violation is of such a grave nature that a more severe punishment is warranted, the Dean of Student Services may recommend to the Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services that the student be dismissed. Second Offense of Violation of the Honor Code: The student may be given a grade of “F” for the course, resulting in the student being required to retake the course at a later date, and in addition, may be placed on probation or suspended for a specified period by the Dean of Student Services. If the receipt of the “F” results in a student not being allowed to progress in the student’s academic program, the student will be immediately dismissed from the program and will be required to reapply for future reinstatement if eligible. The reinstatement is not guaranteed. If in the opinion of the Dean of Student Services, the violation is of such a grave nature that a more severe punishment is warranted, the Dean of Student Services may recommend to the Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services that the student be dismissed. Third Offense of Violation of the Honor Code: The student will be dismissed from South College and may return only if allowed by the South College Conduct Committee following a hearing. Imposed by the College Academic and Conduct Appeals Committee: The Dean of Student Services will consult with the Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services who will promptly convene a hearing before the South College Academic and Conduct Appeals Committee upon (1) a student submitting an appeal of a finding of violation of the Honor Code and penalty imposed by a faculty member and/or the Dean of Student Services or (2) receiving a report of a violation of the Honor Code. The hearing will be conducted in accordance with the “Disciplinary Procedures” set forth in the South College Student Handbook. In the case of a student appeal, the Academic and Conduct Appeals Committee may (1) deny the appeal and uphold the finding of violation of the Honor Code and penalty imposed; (2) deny the appeal as to the finding of violation of the Honor Code and modify the penalty imposed; or (3) grant the appeal and reverse the finding of violation of the Honor Code and penalty imposed. In the case of a report of a violation of the Honor Code, the Academic and Conduct Appeals Committee will determine whether the student violated the Honor Code. Upon determining that


the student violated the Honor Code, the Academic and Conduct Appeals Committee may impose a penalty based on whether the violation is a first, second, or third offense as stated above.


APPENDIX I


SOUTH COLLEGE

CHANGE OF GRADE FORM Student's Name:____________________________________________________________ SS#: ___________________________________________ Course Number/Name: ______________________________ Section: ________________ Quarter Taken: _____________________________________________________________ Original Course Grade: ______________________________________________________ Revised Course Grade: _____________________________________________________ _ Faculty Member's Name: _____________________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________________________________ Date: _____________________________________________________________________ Comments: (Should include student course average calculation.) All requirements for the changing of an incomplete grade to a letter grade must be completed by the end of the first week of the following quarter unless an extension has been approved. A form should be submitted for every student who was given an incomplete. If course work was not completed by the deadline, an "F" will be awarded.


SOUTH COLLEGE

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY REPORT FACULTY MEMBER: DATE: ___________ COURSE: _______ TYPE OF ACTIVITY: Field Trip Guest Speaker Workshop DATE AND TIME OF ACTIVITY: ______ PURPOSE: COMMENTS: APPROVAL/AUTHORIZATION: DATE:


SOUTH COLLEGE

REQUEST FOR CREDIT BY EXAMINATION STUDENT NAME: ________________________________ STUDENT SS#: ________________________________ MAJOR: ________________________________ COURSE TO BE DATE OF CHALLENGED: ________________ EXAMINATION: __________________ ACADEMIC ADVISOR APPROVAL THAT COURSE HAS NOT BEEN ATTEMPTED/TAKEN AT SC or CHALLENGE EXAM PREVOUSLY TAKEN, and IT IS WITHIN THE FIRST TWO QUARTERS OF STUDENT ENROLLMENT: ________________________________________ Advisor Signature BUSINESS MANAGER APPROVAL THAT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PAYMENT OF EXAM FEE HAS BEEN MADE: _________________________________________ Business Manager Signature I wish to seek credit by examination for the above stated course. I understand that I must earn the required score to receive course credit and that I may challenge an approved course once only. _________________________________________ Student Signature Date ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Office Use Only

CREDIT AWARDED: _ YES _ NO

EXAMINATION SCORE: __ ADMINISTRATOR: EVALUATOR: _______________________ DATE SCORE SUBMITTED: ___________ DATE OF STUDENT NOTIFICATION: _____________________


SOUTH COLLEGE

REQUEST FOR EXTENSION OF INCOMPLETE GRADE

STUDENT NAME ________________________________ DATE ________________ COURSE # and NAME __________________________________________________ QUARTER INCOMPLETE GRADE ASSSIGNED __________________________ EXTENSION REQUESTED UNTIL (DATE) _______________________________ REASON(S) FOR REQUESTED EXTENSION _____________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________ Signature of Faculty Member

I recommend that the above request for extension of the incomplete grade be granted. _____________________________________________ Signature of Dean/Department Chairperson _____________________ Date


APPENDIX J


SOUTH COLLEGE

Professional Development Activities and Documentation Completion and timely submission of information via your Digital Measures Activity Insight account is required of all South College employees, including all adjunct faculty. The purpose of collecting your activities is to maintain a database documenting ongoing achievement of professional development, service, and scholarly activities consistent with the South College Mission Statement. Professional growth is the process by which employees gain knowledge and skills which maintain and enhance their expertise. Completion of courses, completion of seminars, attendance at conventions, completion of field visits, attendance at vendor shows and equipment exhibits, completion of professional writing, and presentations are examples given of such activities. Documentation of these activities is required and should be retained and retrievable upon request. Examples of acceptable documentation are listed below.

1. Seminar/Field Visits/Exhibits a. Copy of certificate of attendance b. Copy of cancelled check showing payment of registration fee c. Copy of expense report and receipts from trip d. Though not ideal, but as a last resort, the agenda from the meeting e. Letter from presenters confirming your registration f. For field visits, letter from company confirming your visit

2. Coursework Completed

a. Copy of grade report b. Copy of transcript

3. Courses Taught External to South College

a. Copy of appointment letter b. Copy of course syllabus c. Copy of student evaluation summary d. Letter from supervisor on organizational or institution letterhead

confirming course taught

4. Copy of Concurrent Professional Experience a. Copy of any correspondence or report documenting activity relating to

courses taught b. Copy of annual review c. Copy of job description along with copy of current work ID or check stub


5. Professional Writing

a. Copy of article, book, etc. b. Citation information from publisher

6. Professional Membership a. Copy of receipt for current membership dues or confirmation of

membership

Approval of professional growth activities should be gained through the appropriate Dean/Department Chair and/or the Executive Vice President. Prior approval is required in order for reimbursement of expenses is granted. Approval of professional growth activities should be gained through the appropriate Dean/Department Chair and/or the Executive Vice President/Provost. Prior approval is required in order for reimbursement of expenses is granted. The importance of these activities cannot be understated. Faculty should make it a priority to update documentation of their professional development activities as they are completed.


APPENDIX K

SOUTH COLLEGE

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS JOB TITLE: Full-Time Faculty Member SUPERVISOR: Dean/Department Chair Executive Vice President/Provost QUALIFICATIONS: Education: General Studies: Doctorate or Master’s

degree in the discipline or Master’s degree with 18 graduate semester hours (gsh) in discipline.

Associate Degree Programs: Doctorate or

Master’s degree in discipline or Master’s degree with 18 gsh in discipline. Bachelor’s degree in discipline may be accepted for programs not normally designed for transfer to a bachelor’s degree or depending upon terminal degree level of field.

Baccalaureate Degree Programs: Doctorate

or Master’s degree in discipline or Master’s degree with 18 gsh in discipline. Bachelor’s degree in discipline may be accepted for programs depending upon terminal degree level of field.

Graduate Degree Programs:

Doctorate/Terminal degree in discipline. Experience: Prior teaching experience (which may be

satisfied by experience in academic degree program) and/or practical/clinical experience in the discipline (which may be satisfied by experience in a structured post-graduate program, such as residency or fellowship).

In exceptional cases, experience may be considered in lieu of academic credentials. Detailed documentation of experience is required.

Documentation of applicable licenses/certifications is required.

In some cases, course descriptions and/or syllabi of courses completed may be required for determination of compliance with credit hour requirements. Only degrees earned from regionally accredited institutions are recognized. General South College faculty requirements are included in this job description. Each School/Department may have modify or add to these general requirements. Faculty Rank will be determined at the time of hire. All required forms and information must be submitted in order for this process to be completed. Please see the South College System for Faculty Rank. I. OBLIGATIONS OF THE FULL-TIME FACULTY MEMBER All full-time faculty members employed by South College are required to continually enrich and update their education by participating in workshops or seminars each year while employed by the institution. All full-time faculty members are expected to maintain professional standards, attitude, and performance levels to ensure effective, safe, ethical, and legal performance in all aspects of the position. This includes giving serious consideration to all forms of informal and formal performance evaluation (e.g., student evaluations, classroom visitation, annual performance review, clinical site evaluation) and seeking methods for improvement while striving for academic excellence. All members of the South College community are expected to develop and maintain professional relationships with all staff, faculty, and students and exhibit positive and professional conduct. A. Hours/Full-Time: Full-time status for undergraduate is generally defined as a

courseload of 16-20 weekly class hours each quarter – however individual Schools/Departments may have different configuration of hours based on courses/credit hours and clinical/fieldwork/internship hours. Graduate course load is generally defined as a minimum of 8-12 weekly class hours each quarter. However, depending on academic program design and curriculum, this level may not be taught every quarter. There may be some quarters where course instruction is not required by all faculty members. These quarters may solely focus on administration, research, clinical, and/or service activities. Quarterly schedules must be approved by the appropriate Dean/Department Chair in conjunction with the Executive Vice President/Provost (EVP) as appropriate.

In the case that a full class load is not available in the primary School/Department, the faculty member may be asked to teach courses in which he/she is qualified in other areas. Faculty members should plan class meetings to ensure that the required class meeting times are adhered to.

All full-time faculty members must submit to their Dean/Department Chair and the EVP a schedule of office/class hours each quarter. Office hours should be scheduled in blocks of time - with a minimum 30-minute block whenever possible. Faculty members must adhere to these office hours except in the case of emergencies. Select institution and committee meetings are scheduled for Friday’s during each year. Even if office hours are not scheduled for Fridays, these meeting must be attended by all full-time faculty members as appropriate (e.g., annual planning meeting for all staff and faculty, strategic planning committee meetings for designated members, in-services).

Class Meetings: Faculty members should make every effort to be available in the

classroom or otherwise 15 minutes prior to the beginning of class and likewise after class to allow students to ask questions or discuss any issues. If more time is required by a student for tutoring purposes, the faculty member should make every effort to assist the student. If the faculty member cannot, the Dean of Student Services should be notified in order to arrange for additional tutoring. Students must have accessibility to faculty members; therefore, the syllabus for each class must include telephone number(s), e-mail address(es), etc. to assist students in accessing the faculty member between class meetings.

A. Overview of Full-Time Faculty Member Responsibilities:

1. The major responsibility of the faculty member is to provide quality instruction in

each assigned course within the approved academic program curriculum.

2. As directed by the appropriate Dean/Department Chair, the faculty member should provide assistance in the development, implementation, and continuous evaluation of the curriculum, including sequence of courses and student learning outcomes. The faculty member should assist as directed in the writing, editing, and evaluation of course objectives and ensuring appropriate evaluation measures. Improvement measures should be sought and implemented as appropriate.

3. The faculty member should participate, as appropriate in the applicable

School/Department, in the student advising process.

4. The faculty member should participate as appropriate in institution/school/department committees.

5. As directed by the appropriate Dean/Department Chair, the faculty member should

assist with budget planning and problem-solving activities.

6. The faculty member should plan and participate in scholarship and service activities to assist in meeting the South College outcomes identified for these areas.

7. The faculty member should respond, in a timely manner, to specific and general

information requests from the institution and administrative officials, prospective employers, professional organizations, public agencies, civic organizations, private foundations, general public, and students, as appropriate. At all times, promote

appropriate standards of linguistic expression in both written and oral communications.

8. While primarily led by the Dean/Department Chair, the faculty member may be

requested to assist with the orientation and mentoring of a new faculty member in the School/Department.

9. The faculty member should assist the Dean/Department Chair in the continuous

review of and compliance with applicable accrediting, federal, and state standards and participate in any associated activities such as self-studies, applications, on-site visits, and follow-up reports.

B. Specific Responsibilities of Full-Time Faculty Member:

1. Develop appropriate academic lectures, labs, and other learning experiences that

allow all students to achieve course objectives. Papers and tests should be graded and returned to students in a timely manner to provide feedback to students.

2. Prepare a course syllabus that reflects all course information required per South College

and that clearly presents information for all course evaluation expectations. Evaluation criteria should be planned to ensure determination of student achievement of course objectives. The course syllabus must be submitted to the appropriate Dean/Department Chair per quarterly deadlines. Approval of a syllabus must be received prior to posting of the syllabus on Moodle. The syllabus must be posted on the Moodle site for each course and also reviewed in detail via the Moodle site during the first class meeting of the class. Approved course outlines and textbooks for each course must be followed.

3. Ensure that all academic program requirements and forms of documentation (e.g.,

clinical evaluations, competency documentation) are completed as required for each student and submitted per established deadlines.

4. Submit accurate attendance/academic participation rosters as prescribed by the

institution.

5. Submit an official grade sheet at the end of each quarter for each course taught. This sheet is provided by the institution. Letter grades for each student must be recorded on the sheet and should correspond with the grading criteria for the course. Accompanying the grade sheet must be a grade calculation worksheet identifying how each student’s grade was determined. This worksheet must identify each grade earned, provide the associated numerical grade, and indicate the date of the evaluation measure (e.g., date of test, date paper due, date of presentation). A keyed copy of the final examination must also be submitted with the final grade information.

6. Appropriately manage all classroom activities. The faculty member is responsible for

his/her class at all times and should remain with the class at all times (e.g., library visits, field trips).

7. Be reasonably accessible to students for questions and assistance (minimum of 15 minutes before and after class).

8. Utilize external community and professional resources in the classroom (e.g., field trips,

guest speakers, current events discussions). Approval should be gained from the appropriate supervisor and a completed Community Resource Form submitted to the Dean/Department Chair.

9. Monitor educational and professional literature for the best practices in areas related

to courses taught.

10. Assist with the development of curricular and policy changes as requested by the Dean/Department Chair or Executive Vice President/Provost.

11. Continually seek to improve knowledge and usage of classroom and course technology

through attendance at training sessions (Moodle training is mandatory). Moodle sites should be maintained to ensure continued class activity in the case of emergency necessitating cancellation of a class.

12. Attend and participate in all general and School/Department faculty meetings, advisory

board meetings, and graduation ceremonies.

13. Assist with administration and grading of challenge examinations in the faculty member’s specific areas of instruction, if applicable.

14. Assist with the selection of new textbooks.

15. Assist the librarian in the selection and/or culling of the library collection.

16. Implement effective retention policies in order to minimize attrition. These activities

include calling/e-mailing absent students and offering assistance to them for missed class information and assignments.

17. Notify the Executive Vice President/Provost or Dean/Department Chair several days in

advance, when possible, of impending absence from class(es) and assist in securing substitutes for the instruction of class(es).

18. Participate in the institution’s annual planning process to include participation in the

Annual Planning Meeting. Also, participate in the School/Department planning activities to include data collection, assessment, and evaluation to include determination of improvement plans as appropriate.

19. Participate in professional development activities – minimum of 2 per year for full-time

faculty.

20. Maintain active membership in professional organizations related to field, if appropriate. Active participation may include holding elected office and service on committees.

21. Attend a minimum of 2 in-services hosted by South College each year.

22. Actively participate in all institution and/or School/Department committees assigned to or volunteered for.

23. Participate in annual School/Department community service project.

24. Complete scholarly activities as appropriate to School/Department. These activities may

include research endeavors, publications, presentations, peer-review activities, and institution projects.

25. Participate in the annual performance review process which includes completion of a

thorough self-evaluation process.

26. Adhere to all institutional and School/Department policies as described in the job description, employee/faculty handbook, or other separate guidelines and memoranda.

27. Complete other duties as assigned by the Dean/Department Chair, Executive Vice

President/Provost, or President. II. OBLIGATIONS OF THE INSTITUTION A. Salary shall be paid on the 15th and last day of each month and is based on

aforementioned hours. Salary reviews shall be conducted annually with the supervisor. This review

includes a comprehensive performance review. Performance is the basis for continued appointment as a South College faculty member.

B. Insurance: Full-time employees are eligible for medical and life insurance

benefits. The institution will pay a portion of the premiums. The employee must pay 100% of the premium for dependent coverage. Dental and cancer insurance are also available with 100% of these premiums paid by the employee. Those interested in insurance coverage should see the Business Office.

C. Holidays: All national holidays indicated in the institution calendar are paid.

D. Vacations: Up to four weeks vacation, generally falling between the academic terms

(as published in the institution calendar), may be taken as vacation provided that all arrangements for the subsequent term have been made. Vacation time is forfeited if the employee resigns or is terminated. There is no monetary accrual.

E. Sick Leave: The full-time employee is entitled to one day a month sick leave. Sick

leave is a non-monetary accrual. Up to five days may be accrued.

F. Promotional Increases: Promotional increases may be awarded when the duties and responsibilities are increased or a job elevation has occurred.

G. Retirement: Full-time employees may be eligible to participate in the institution’s 401(k) plan. Consult the business office for more information.

J-FacultyMember/January2015

SOUTH COLLEGE

JOB DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS

JOB TITLE: Adjunct (Part-time) Faculty Member SUPERVISOR: Dean/Department Chair

Executive Vice President/Provost

QUALIFICATIONS: Education: General Studies: Doctorate or Master’s degree in the discipline or Master’s degree with 18 graduate semester hours (gsh) in discipline.

Associate Degree Programs: Doctorate or Master’s degree in discipline or Master’s degree with 18 gsh in discipline. Bachelor’s degree in discipline may be accepted for programs not normally designed for transfer to a bachelor’s degree.

Baccalaureate Degree Programs: Doctorate or Master’s degree in discipline or Master’s degree with 18 gsh in discipline. Graduate Degree Programs: Doctorate/Terminal degree in discipline.

Experience: Prior teaching experience and/or

practical/clinical experience in the discipline. In exceptional cases, experience may be considered in lieu of academic credentials. Detailed documentation of experience is required.

Documentation of applicable licenses/certifications is required. In some cases, course descriptions and/or syllabi of courses taken may be required for determination of compliance with credit hour requirements. General South College faculty requirements are included in this job description. Each School/Department may modify and add to these general requirements. Faculty Rank will be determined at the time of hire. All required forms and information must be submitted in order for this process to be completed. Please see the South College System for Faculty Rank.

I. OBLIGATIONS OF THE ADJUNCT (PART-TIME) FACULTY MEMBER All adjunct (part-time) faculty members employed by South College are encouraged to continually enrich and update their education by participating in workshops or seminars each year while employed by the institution. All faculty members are expected to maintain professional standards, attitude, and performance levels to ensure effective, safe, ethical, and legal performance in all aspects of the position. This includes giving serious consideration to all forms of informal and formal performance evaluation (e.g., student evaluations, classroom visitation, annual performance review, clinical site evaluation, etc.) and seeking methods for improvement while striving for academic excellence. All members of the South College community are expected to develop and maintain professional relationships with all staff, faculty, and students and exhibit positive and professional conduct.

Adjunct (part-time) faculty status is generally defined as a one quarter appointment for associated instructional duties for one or more courses (i.e., course coordinator, lecturer, clinical instructor, lab instructor). All faculty members should plan class meetings to ensure that the required class meeting times are adhered to. All faculty members should make every effort to arrive 15 minutes prior to the beginning of class and stay a minimum of 15 minutes after class to allow students to ask questions or discuss any issues. If more time is required by a student for tutoring purposes, the faculty member should make every effort to assist the student. If the faculty member cannot, the Dean of Student Services should be notified in order to arrange for additional tutoring. Adjunct (part-time) faculty members are not required to hold office hours each week other than the arrival and departure times indicated above. However, students must have accessibility to faculty members, therefore, the syllabus for each class should include telephone number(s), e-mail address(es), etc. to assist students in accessing the faculty member between class meetings.

A. Overview of Part-Time Faculty Member Responsibilities:

1. The major responsibility of all faculty members is to provide quality instruction in each assigned course within the approved academic program curriculum.

2. As appropriate, the Dean/Department Chair may solicit assistance in the development,

implementation, and continuous evaluation of the curriculum, including sequence of courses and student learning outcomes.

3. Though not required, the adjunct faculty member is invited and encouraged to participate

as appropriate in institution/school/department committees.

4. Though not required, the adjunct (part-time) faculty member is encouraged to participate in scholarship and service activities to assist in meeting the South College outcomes identified for these areas.

5. The adjunct (part-time) faculty member should respond, in a timely manner, to specific

and general information requests from the institution and administrative officials, prospective employers, professional organizations, public agencies, civic organizations, private foundations, general public, and students, as appropriate. At all times, promote appropriate standards of linguistic expression in both written and oral communications.

B. Specific Responsibilities of the Adjunct (Part-Time) Faculty Member: 1. Develop appropriate academic lectures, labs, and other learning experiences that allow all

students to achieve course objectives. Papers and tests should be graded and returned to students in a timely manner to provide feedback to students.

2. Prepare a course syllabus that reflect all course information required per South College

and that clearly presents information for all course evaluation expectations. Evaluation criteria should be planned to ensure determination of student achievement of course objectives. A course syllabus must be submitted to the appropriate Dean/Department Chair per quarterly deadlines. Approval of the syllabus must be received prior to posting of the syllabus on Moodle. The syllabus must be posted on the Moodle site for each course and also reviewed in detail via the Moodle site during the first class meeting of the course. Approved course outlines and textbooks for each course must be followed.

3. Ensure that all academic program requirements and forms of documentation (e.g., clinical

evaluations, competency documentation) are completed as required for each student and submitted per established deadlines.

4. Submit accurate attendance/academic participation rosters as prescribed by the

institution.

5. Submit an official grade sheet at the end of each quarter for each course taught. This sheet is provided by the institution. Letter grades for each student must be recorded on the sheet and should correspond with the grading criteria for the course. Accompanying the grade sheet must be a grade calculation worksheet identifying how each student’s grade was determined. This worksheet must identify each grade earned, provide the associated numerical grade, and indicate the date of the evaluation measure (e.g., date of test, date paper due, date of presentation). A keyed copy of the final examination must also be submitted with the final grade information.

6. Appropriately manage all classroom activities. The faculty member is responsible for

his/her class at all times and should remain with the class at all times (e.g., library visits, field trips).

7. Be reasonably accessible to students for questions and assistance.

8. Utilize external community and professional resources in the classroom (e.g., field trips, guest speakers, current events discussions) as applicable. Approval should be gained from the appropriate supervisor and a completed Community Resource Form submitted to the Dean/Department Chair.

9. Monitor educational and professional literature for the best practices in areas related to courses taught.

10. Assist with the development of curricular and policy changes as requested by the

Dean/Department Chair or Executive Vice President/Provost. 11. Continually seek to improve knowledge and usage of classroom and course technology

through attendance at training sessions and/or information distributed. Moodle training is mandatory. Moodle sites should be maintained to ensure continued class activity in the case of emergency necessitating cancellation of a class.

12. Assist with the selection of new textbooks as appropriate. 13. The adjunct (part-time) faculty member may be asked periodically to provide assistance

to the librarian in the selection and/or culling of the library resources relating to assigned courses.

14. Implement effective retention policies in order to minimize attrition. These activities

include calling/e-mailing absent students and offering assistance to them for missed class information and assignments.

15. Notify the Dean/Department Chair several days in advance, when possible, of impending

absence from class(es) and assist in securing substitutes for the instruction of class(es). 16. Adjunct (part-time) faculty members teaching on a regular basis are required to

participate in professional development activities – minimum of 1 per year. 17. Though not required, adjunct (part-time) faculty members are encouraged to actively

participate in institution and/or School/Department committees assigned to or volunteered for.

18. Though not required, adjunct (part-time) faculty members are encouraged to participate

in annual School/Department community service project. 19. Though not required, adjunct (part-time) faculty members are encouraged to participate

in the institutional Annual Planning Meeting and any associated activities. 20. For regular adjunct (part-time) faculty members, participate in the annual performance

review process which includes completion of a thorough self-evaluation process. 21. Adhere to all institutional and School/Department policies as described in the job

description, employee/faculty handbook, or other separate guidelines and memoranda.

22. Complete other duties as assigned by the Dean/Chair, Executive Vice President/Provost, or President.

II. OBLIGATIONS OF THE INSTITUTION

A. Adjunct (part-time) faculty pay dates are communicated quarterly and the amount is based on the agreed upon course rates times the number of assigned courses.

B. Performance reviews shall be conducted annually with the Dean/Department

Chair for regular adjunct faculty (part-time). Performance and need by the institution is the basis for continued appointment as a South College part-time faculty member.

B. Insurance: Part-time employees are not eligible for medical or life insurance

benefits. C. Holidays: Paid holidays are not applicable to part-time faculty members. D. Vacations: Paid vacations are not applicable to part-time faculty members. E. Sick Leave: Paid sick leave is not applicable to part-time faculty members. F. Promotional Increases: Promotional increases may be awarded when the

duties and responsibilities are increased or a job elevation has occurred.

G. Retirement: Part-time employees are not eligible to participate in the institution’s 401(k) plan.

J-FacultyMemberAdjunct/January2015

Regular Adjunct (Part-time) Faculty – those adjunct faculty members regularly assigned course each quarter or who regularly teach a course or courses in a lock-step curriculum.


APPENDIX L


SOUTH COLLEGE

JOB DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATIONS POSITION: Department Chairperson SUPERVISOR: Executive Vice President QUALIFICATIONS: Depending on Level of Programs Offered: Minimum of an

Appropriate Graduate Degree Professional Licensure in Appropriate Field (if applicable) Professional Experience in Pertinent Field Documentation of applicable licenses/certifications is required. In some cases, course descriptions and/or syllabi of courses taken may be required for determination of compliance with credit hour requirements. Faculty Rank will be determined at the time of hire. All required forms and information must be submitted in order for this process to be completed. Please see the South College System for Faculty Rank. I. OBLIGATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT CHAIRPERSON All academic personnel are expected to maintain professional standards, attitude, and performance levels to ensure effective, safe, ethical, and legal performance in all aspects of the position. This includes giving serious consideration to all forms of informal and formal performance evaluation (e.g., student evaluations, classroom visitation, annual performance review, clinical site evaluation, etc.) and seeking methods for improvement while striving for academic excellence. All members of the South College community are expected to develop and maintain professional relationships with all staff, faculty, and students and exhibit positive and professional conduct. A. Hours: The Department Chair is a full-time employee. Hours vary in the day and/or

evening hours per week and reasonable supplemental hours as workload dictates. These hours include administrative, teaching, and/or off-campus required duties.

B. Teaching Load: The Department Chair will teach courses as agreed upon between

the Chair and the Executive Vice President. A heavier teaching load may be required during start-up of new programs when student enrollment is lower.


C. Administrative Duties: The college is organized into Schools with Academic Departments and stand-alone Academic Departments. Each Academic Department includes those subject areas that are closely related and are usually, but not exclusively, prefixed with the same letter code (see catalog). The Department Chairpersons are concerned with the curriculum and instructional programs within their designated Departments. Departments within a School will work together collaboratively on items of common interest. Department Chairpersons for stand-alone Departments are appointed by the Executive Vice President (with the approval of the President) and report directly to the EVP. The duties of the Department Chairpersons include: Supervising the faculty members within the Department and in coordinating

their activities to ensure that all requirements in the South College Faculty Member Job Description are carried out effectively. This includes scheduling of regular meetings with faculty and staff to ensure collaboration and consistent communication.

Implementing and/or coordinating quality instructional programs and the

course offerings within the Department. This includes leadership in the development, implementation, and continuous evaluation of the curriculum, including sequence of courses and student learning outcomes, as well in the writing, editing, and evaluation of course objectives and ensuring appropriate evaluation measures. Improvement measures should be sought and implemented as appropriate.

Recruiting and recommending to the EVP qualified personnel for

employment within the Department. The Department Chairperson is also responsible for orienting, supervising, and evaluating the teaching personnel in the Department. The recommendations and evaluations of the Department Chairperson will be made to the EVP.

Leading the planning, assessment, and evaluation activities of the

Department in conjunction with the South College systematic planning process. This includes the completion of the annual strategic plan and associated assessment report(s).

Supervising and assisting in the process of student advisement. This

includes establishing an appropriate system for advisement in the scheduling of classes, student disciplinary issues, and academic and personal issues affecting student matriculation.

Preparing an annual budget for the Department in conjunction with the EVP,

following collaboration with the faculty.


Ensuring that a quarterly class schedule is completed and submitted to the EVP.

Ensuring that all accreditation requirements are met by the program for both

institutional accreditation and programmatic accreditation if applicable. Leading the completion of self-studies or reports as required for

accreditation or state purposes. Coordinating the programmatic advisory committees as designated in the

faculty handbook. Ensuring that appropriate evaluations of Faculty and Staff within the

Department are completed in a timely manner. Actively participating in all committees assigned to or volunteered for. May

include institutional accreditation activities and participation in special projects. Participating in all general faculty meetings, advisory board meetings, and graduation ceremonies. Assisting the librarian staff in the selection and/or culling of the library collection.

Participating in all institutional and/or Department committees assigned to or volunteered for.

Participating in annual Departmental community service project.

Participating in scholarship and service activities to assist in meeting the South College outcomes identified for these areas.

Participating in professional development activities – minimum of 2 per year. Maintaining active membership in professional organizations related to field, if appropriate. Also, maintaining current knowledge of subjects taught in the School to include monitoring of educational and professional literature for the best practices in areas related to courses taught. Attending a minimum of 2 in-services hosted by South College each year.

. Responding, in a timely manner, to specific and general information

requests from the college and administrative officials, prospective employers, professional organizations, public agencies, civic organizations, private foundations, general public, and students, as


appropriate. At all times, promote appropriate standards of linguistic expression in both written and oral communications.

Continually seeking to improve knowledge and usage of classroom and course technology through attendance at training sessions. Moodle sites should be maintained to ensure continued class activity in the case of emergency necessitating cancellation of a class.

Performing instructional duties as outlined in the faculty member job description.

Adhering to college policies as described in the faculty and employee handbooks, job descriptions, policies and procedures manual, catalog, or other separate guidelines.

Complete other duties as assigned by the Executive Vice President or President.

II. OBLIGATIONS OF THE COLLEGE A. Salary shall be paid on the 15th and last day of each month and is based on


includes a comprehensive performance review. Performance is the basis for continued appointment as a South College faculty member. Part-time faculty appointments are made on a quarterly basis.


benefits. The college will pay a portion of the premiums. The employee must pay 100% of the premium for dependent coverage. Dental and cancer insurance are also available with 100% of these premiums paid by the employee. Those interested in insurance coverage should see the Executive/HR Assistant.

D. Holidays: All national holidays indicated in the college calendar are paid.

D. Vacations: Up to four weeks vacation, generally falling between the

academic terms (as published in the college calendar), may be taken as vacation provided that all arrangements for the subsequent term have been made. Vacation time is forfeited if the employee resigns or is terminated. There is no monetary accrual. (FULL-TIME FACULTY ONLY).

E. Sick Leave: The full-time employee is entitled to one day a month sick

leave. Sick leave is a non-monetary accrual. Up to five days may be accrued. Part-time faculty are not entitled to sick leave.


H. Promotional Increases: Promotional increases will be awarded when the


I. Retirement: Full-time employees may be eligible to participate in the institution’s 401(k) plan. Consult the Executive/HR Assistant for more information.


APPENDIX M


SOUTH COLLEGE

JOB DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATION POSITION: Dean SUPERVISOR: Executive Vice President QUALIFICATIONS: Depending on Level of Programs Offered: Minimum of an

Appropriate Graduate Degree Professional Licensure in Appropriate Field (if applicable) Professional Experience in Pertinent Field Documentation of applicable licenses/certifications is required. In some cases, course descriptions and/or syllabi of courses taken may be required for determination of compliance with credit hour requirements. Faculty Rank will be determined at the time of hire. All required forms and information must be submitted in order for this process to be completed. Please see the South College System for Faculty Rank. I. OBLIGATIONS OF THE DEAN All academic personnel are expected to maintain professional standards, attitude, and performance levels to ensure effective, safe, ethical, and legal performance in all aspects of the position. This includes giving serious consideration to all forms of informal and formal performance evaluation (e.g., student evaluations, classroom visitation, annual performance review, clinical site evaluation, etc.) and seeking methods for improvement while striving for academic excellence. All members of the South College community are expected to develop and maintain professional relationships with all staff, faculty, and students and exhibit positive and professional conduct. A. Hours: The Dean is a full-time employee. These hours include administrative,

teaching, and/or off-campus required duties. B. Teaching Load: The Dean will teach courses as agreed upon between the Dean and

the Executive Vice President. A heavier teaching load may be required during start-up of new programs when student enrollment is lower.


C. Administrative Duties: The college is organized into schools and academic departments, with each including those subject areas that are closely related and are usually, but not exclusively, prefixed with the same letter code (see catalog). The Dean is concerned with the curriculum and instructional programs within his/her School. Deans are appointed by the Executive Vice President and approved by the President. The duties of the Deans include: Supervising the associate dean/department chairs/faculty member within the

School and in coordinating their activities to ensure that all requirements in the South College Faculty Member Job Description are carried out effectively. This includes scheduling of regular meetings with faculty and staff to ensure collaboration and consistent communication.

Implementing and/or coordinating quality instructional programs and the

course offerings within the School. This includes leadership in the development, implementation, and continuous evaluation of the curriculum, including sequence of courses and student learning outcomes, as well in the writing, editing, and evaluation of course objectives and ensuring appropriate evaluation measures. Improvement measures should be sought and implemented as appropriate.

Recruiting and recommending to the EVP qualified personnel for

employment within the School. The Dean will also be responsible for ensuring that the personnel within the School are oriented, supervised, and evaluated as per college policies and procedures.

Leading the planning, assessment, and evaluation activities of the School in

conjunction with the South College systematic planning process. This includes the completion of the annual strategic plan and associates assessment report(s).

Assisting in the process of student advisement. This includes establishing an

appropriate system for advisement in the scheduling of classes, student disciplinary issues, and academic and personal issues affecting student matriculation.

Preparing an annual budget for the School in conjunction with the EVP. Ensuring that a quarterly class schedule is completed and submitted to the

EVP. Ensuring that all accreditation requirements are met by the program for both

institutional accreditation and programmatic accreditation if applicable.


Leading the completion of self-studies or reports as required for accreditation or state purposes.

Ensuring that appropriate evaluations of Associate Deans, Department Chairs, Faculty, and Staff within the School are completed timely.

Actively participating in all committees assigned to for volunteered for.

May include institutional accreditation activities and participation in special projects. Participating in all general faculty meetings, advisory board meetings, and graduation ceremonies. Assisting the librarian staff in the selection and/or culling of the library collection.

Participating in annual School community service project.

Participating in scholarship and service activities to assist in meeting the South College outcomes identified for these areas.

Participating in professional development activities – minimum of 2 per year. Maintaining active membership in professional organizations related to field, if appropriate. Also, maintaining current knowledge of subjects taught in the School to include monitoring of educational and professional literature for the best practices in areas related to courses taught. Attending a minimum of 2 in-services hosted by South College each year.

. Responding, in a timely manner, to specific and general information

requests from the college and administrative officials, prospective employers, professional organizations, public agencies, civic organizations, private foundations, general public, and students, as appropriate. At all times, promote appropriate standards of linguistic expression in both written and oral communications.

Continually seeking to improve knowledge and usage of classroom and course technology through attendance at training sessions. Moodle sites should be maintained to ensure continued class activity in the case of emergency necessitating cancellation of a class.

Adhering to college policies as described in the faculty and employee handbooks, job descriptions, policies and procedures manual, catalog, or other separate guidelines.

Complete other duties as assigned by the Executive Vice President or President.


II. OBLIGATIONS OF THE COLLEGE A. Salary shall be paid on the 15th and last day of each month and is based on


includes a comprehensive performance review. Performance is the basis for continued appointment as a South College faculty member. Part-time faculty appointments are made on a quarterly basis.


benefits. The college will pay a portion of the premiums. The employee must pay 100% of the premium for dependent coverage. Dental and cancer insurance are also available with 100% of these premiums paid by the employee. Those interested in insurance coverage should see the Executive/HR Assistant.

E. Holidays: All national holidays indicated in the college calendar are paid.

D. Vacations: Up to four weeks vacation, generally falling between the

academic terms (as published in the college calendar), may be taken as vacation provided that all arrangements for the subsequent term have been made. Vacation time is forfeited if the employee resigns or is terminated. There is no monetary accrual. (FULL-TIME FACULTY ONLY).

E. Sick Leave: The full-time employee is entitled to one day a month sick

leave. Sick leave is a non-monetary accrual. Up to five days may be accrued. Part-time faculty are not entitled to sick leave.

J. Promotional Increases: Promotional increases will be awarded when the


K. Retirement: Full-time employees may be eligible to participate in the institution’s 401(k) plan. Consult the Executive/HR Assistant for more information.


APPENDIX N


South College System for Faculty Rank

Standards

Appointment to the South College Faculty is based on past record and/or promise of excellence in teaching, service, and scholarly contribution.1 Academic credentials appropriate to the appointment are the primary criteria for initial appointment to the South College Faculty. Movement in academic rank is recognition of past achievements and reflects confidence in greater responsibility and accomplishment in the future. Academic rank is awarded based on merit consistent with these standards and is made on an objective, equitable, and impartial basis. Movement in academic rank is rewarded with a percentage increase in the faculty member’s base salary or a flat, one time monetary amount, except in times of fiscal constraint.2 _______________________________________ 1 The following definitions apply to the terms teaching, service, and scholarly

contribution as used herein. In addition to these definitions, Appendix A provides information on criteria for each area. Teaching. Teaching is the art of facilitating learning in a manner such that others may effectively learn the information, and may include but is not limited to, using a variety of instructional techniques, developing course materials and/or programs, and developing innovative approaches to teaching. Service. Service is the contribution of a faculty member’s knowledge, talent, and skill to South College by, among other things, actively participating in department, school, and institution committees and advising students. Also related to South College, service includes engaging in practice in the faculty member’s academic or professional discipline where such is a component of the faculty appointment. Outside of South College, service includes actively participating in community and professional organizations. Scholarly contribution. Scholarly contribution includes, but is not limited to, research and the publication of the results of research; publication of artistic and literary creations; publication of books, book chapters, articles (both peer-reviewed and non peer-reviewed), and technical bulletins; serving on an editorial or peer review board (for publications or research proposals); presentation to professional and scientific organizations; and participation in individual professional growth and development activities.

2 In awarding initial academic rank to an existing faculty member upon implementation of these standards, no monetary reward is provided. After awarding of initial academic


rank, a faculty member must be in the rank for the period of time described in these standards before movement in rank and monetary reward as described in these standards will be considered.

The terms “regular” and “special” are used to qualify the term “appointment.” The term “regular” defines an appointment such as Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, and Instructor, without qualifying adjectives. A “special” appointment is one which uses the above academic rank terms but is qualified with an adjective such as “Clinical,” “Adjunct,” “Emeritus,” or other. Regular faculty appointment applies to both full-time and part-time faculty appointments. It is recognized that part-time appointments vary as to the percentage of effort devoted to the mission and programs of South College. Therefore, application of these criteria to individual faculty members may take into account the actual percentage of effort devoted to the mission and programs of South College. The initial appointment3 of an individual to a specific academic rank will be based on credentials documented through the institution(s) and organization(s) at which the credentials were obtained (e.g., degrees, postgraduate training, licensure, certification). Each faculty member is evaluated, when appropriate, with respect to past performance in activities appropriate to the discipline. Although academic credentials are the primary factor, contributions to the overall development and goals of South College and the traditional realms of endeavor of teaching, service, and scholarly contribution are the major criteria for appointment and promotion. _______________________________________ 3 In order to efficiently implement these standards upon adoption by the South College

Academic Council, each faculty member will complete an application for initial academic rank. Each faculty member will attach to the application a current curriculum vitae, resume, or similar document consistent with the faculty member’s academic discipline. The application and supporting documentation will be submitted to the faculty member’s Dean/Department Chair for review and action. The Dean/Chair will meet with the Executive Vice President to discuss initial rank for all faculty members within his/her program/department. The Executive Vice President must approve all initial ranks. In the occurrence that a faculty member wishes to appeal the initial rank approved by the Executive Vice President, the decision may be appealed to the Ad Hoc Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee whose decision will be final.


For faculty employed after implementation of these criteria, initial rank will be determined in accordance with the process appended to the Standards (Appendix B).

South College recognizes the academic ranks of Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor, with the minimum standards for each rank set forth below. The minimum standards must be fulfilled for designation of academic rank, including the standards for time in each academic rank. Movement in academic rank must be sequential in nature. The following standards are guidelines and are not necessarily comprehensive. It should not be assumed that the items are prioritized by relative importance. Regular Faculty I. Instructor

The rank of Instructor is ordinarily used to designate a faculty member in the first stage of an academic career where credentials and experience may not be adequate to judge whether a different academic rank is merited. The period in the rank of Instructor before movement to Assistant Professor will ordinarily be approximately one to three years. Depending on the expectations for the role and responsibility of a faculty member, and consistent with a faculty member’s preference, the rank may extend indefinitely or appointment conditions may require movement in rank.

A. Doctoral, Master’s, or Baccalaureate degree. B. Potential and commitment to attain excellence in teaching, service, and

scholarly contribution. Potential and commitment to practicing in the academic discipline or profession is also considered for faculty appointments that include a practice component. See Appendix A for criteria information.

II. Assistant Professor

The years in rank of Assistant Professor are a period in which the new faculty member is given the opportunity and is expected to develop teaching skills, service activities, and scholarly contribution. The period in the rank of Assistant Professor before movement to Associate Professor will ordinarily be approximately five years. A faculty member demonstrating outstanding accomplishment may be considered for movement in advance of this time period if deemed appropriate by department/school and approved by the Executive Vice President. Prior academic service at another accredited college/university in the rank of Assistant Professor may be counted toward the minimum number of years in that rank. Depending on the expectations for the role and responsibility of a faculty member, and consistent with a faculty member’s preference, the rank may extend indefinitely or appointment conditions may require movement in rank. A. Doctoral or Master’s degree. If the individual does not possess the terminal

degree, significant professional experience is required.


B. Demonstrated evidence of ability and achievement in teaching, service, and scholarly contribution with promise of greater responsibility and accomplishment. Demonstrated evidence of ability and achievement in practicing in the academic discipline or profession is also considered for faculty appointments that include a practice component. See Appendix A for criteria information.

III. Associate Professor

Progression to the rank of Associate Professor signifies definitive accomplishment with distinct promise of continued productivity and development. The period in the rank of Associate Professor before progressing to Professor will ordinarily be approximately five years. A faculty member demonstrating outstanding accomplishment may be considered for movement in advance of this time period if deemed appropriate by department/school and approved by the Executive Vice President. Prior academic service at another accredited college/university in the rank of Associate Professor may be counted toward the minimum number of years in that rank. Any recommendation for appointment to the rank of Associate Professor must extensively and specifically document contributions and accomplishments. Depending on the expectations for the role and responsibility of a faculty member, and consistent with a faculty member’s preference, the rank may extend indefinitely or appointment conditions may require movement in rank.

A. Doctoral or Master’s degree. If the individual does not possess the terminal

degree, significant professional experience is required. B. Demonstrated excellence in teaching, service, and scholarly contribution, and

promise of continued productivity therein. Demonstrated excellent in practicing in the academic discipline or profession is also considered for faculty appointments that include a practice component. Generally, excellence should be demonstrated in at least two of the areas of teaching, service, and scholarly contribution, and practicing in the academic discipline or profession where applicable. Performance should be at least satisfactory in the other area. See Appendix A for criteria information.

IV. Professor

Attainment of the rank of Professor is an indication that, in the opinion of colleagues and peers, the individual has made and continues to make outstanding contributions in teaching, service, and scholarly contribution, has achieved a high level of creative productivity in the academic arena, and may have earned state, national, and/or international recognition. It should be stressed that appointment to this rank is recognition of attainment rather than longevity of service. Guidelines for appointment to the rank of Professor are similar to those for appointment to Associate Professor, however, it is understood that both the quantity and quality of documented accomplishments are expected to be significantly higher for


appointment to this rank. Any recommendation for appointment to the rank of Professor must be extensively and explicitly documented.

A. Doctoral degree or possesses the terminal degree for the discipline in which the

faculty member is teaching. A faculty member not possessing the terminal degree must present outstanding accomplishments for special consideration.

B. Demonstrated and sustained excellence in teaching, service, and scholarly

contribution, and promise of continued productivity therein. Demonstrated and sustained excellence in practicing in the academic discipline or profession is also considered for faculty appointments that include a practice component. Generally, excellence should be demonstrated in at least two of the areas of teaching, service, and scholarly contribution, and practicing in the academic discipline or profession where applicable. Performance should be at least satisfactory in the other area. See Appendix A for criteria information.

Special Faculty I. Clinical or Adjunct Instructor

The rank of Clinical or Adjunct Instructor is ordinarily used to designate a faculty member in the first stage of an academic career where credentials and experience may not be adequate to judge whether a different academic rank is merited. The period in the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Instructor before movement to Clinical or Adjunct Assistant Professor will ordinarily be approximately one to three years. Depending on the expectations for the role and responsibility of a faculty member, and consistent with a faculty member’s preference, the rank may extend indefinitely or appointment conditions may require movement in rank. Appointment to the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Instructor generally requires documentation of a commitment to attain excellence in teaching, service, and scholarly contribution, and practicing in the academic discipline or profession where applicable. See Appendix A for criteria information.

II. Clinical or Adjunct Assistant Professor

The period in the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Assistant Professor before movement to Clinical or Adjunct Associate Professor will ordinarily be approximately five years. A faculty member demonstrating outstanding accomplishment may be considered for movement in advance of this time period if deemed appropriate by the Executive Vice President. Prior academic service at another accredited college/university in the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Assistant Professor may be counted toward the minimum number of years in that rank. Depending on the expectations for the role and responsibility of a faculty member, and consistent with a faculty member’s preference, the rank may extend indefinitely or appointment conditions may require movement in rank. Appointment or movement to the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Assistant Professor generally requires documentation of a


developing record of scholarly and professional attainment. See Appendix A for criteria information.

III. Clinical or Adjunct Associate Professor The period in the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Associate Professor before movement to Clinical or Adjunct Professor will ordinarily be approximately five years. A faculty member demonstrating outstanding accomplishment may be considered for movement in advance of this time period if deemed appropriate by the Executive Vice President. Prior academic service at another accredited college/university in the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Associate Professor may be counted toward the minimum number of years in that rank. Depending on the expectations for the role and responsibility of a faculty member, and consistent with a faculty member’s preference, the rank may extend indefinitely or appointment conditions may require movement in rank. Appointment or movement to the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Associate Professor generally requires documentation of a developing record of scholarly and professional attainment. See Appendix A for criteria information.

IV. Clinical or Adjunct Professor

Appointment or movement to the rank of Clinical or Adjunct Professor generally requires documentation of a distinguished and sustained record of scholarly and professional attainment. See Appendix A for criteria information.


SOUTH COLLEGE SYSTEM FOR FACULTY RANK

APPENDIX A

Criteria

Mission and Goals of South College

The nature and relative importance of the criteria for recommendation for a movement in faculty rank are related to the mission and goals of South College and of the school/department in which the faculty member is appointed. Therefore, faculty members must document satisfactory performance in each of the three areas of teaching, service, and scholarly activities with recognition that due to the diversity of programs/departments and their goals, in both levels and disciplines, expectations for faculty members in each of these areas vary.

Faculty members applying for movement in rank must meet the minimum standards outlined in the South College System for Faculty Rank. Once minimum standards have been met, the decision regarding movement in rank is based on the criteria outlined below and the process outlined in Appendix B.

A. Teaching

Generally - accomplishments must include demonstrated ability to convey in-depth knowledge to students at all levels by various means (formal and informal) and the ability to stimulate students to greater scholarship. This may be documented by evidence of the design and implementation of innovative methods of presentation and evaluation, and continued updating of methods and materials. In addition, consideration will be given to recognition of innovative teaching through publication and presentation, student and peer evaluations of teaching, awards, honors, quality and quantity of courses taught/coordinated/participated in, involvement in both undergraduate and graduate courses, and serving as a preceptor, where applicable.

Evaluation of teaching is conducted by the appropriate Dean/Department Chair, peers within the institution, and students. The evaluation is based on the following criteria (evidence of each should be submitted):

1. Curriculum and/or program development - creating effective course materials for individual courses or overall programs, organizing course content in a logical way to motivate students, partnerships created, and generally stimulating student creativity within the academic discipline.

2. Development and application of current instructional techniques - employing innovative techniques that might include online and hybrid course development. Many possibilities might be applicable to this category, such as use of multimedia sources, visual aids, and other classroom supplemental tools/techniques.


3. Documentation of teaching methodologies - innovation and obvious attention to new and emerging methodologies. A variety of methodologies might be appropriate, including group and individual projects, discussion scenarios, case studies, lab projects, etc.

4. Documentation of staying current in discipline - includes traditional professional development and other activities, such as reading relevant publications, conducting research through various avenues for material to incorporate into the classroom, and regularly revising all elements used in the individual teaching environment.

5. Student evaluations of teaching performance – including summaries of Student Course Evaluations, providing a summary of the results, and responding to the student’s perceptions if seen as necessary by the faculty member. The summary may include explanations/elaboration relating to evaluation contents, agreement with comments and/or ratings, disagreement with comments and/or ratings, plans for improvement, and/or plans for course revision/modification.

6. Assessment of student learning outcomes/impact on student learning – including standardized test results, pre- and post-test results, capstone project results, etc.

B. Service/Outreach

Generally - contributing to South College by, among other things, participating in department, school, and institution committees; participating in administrative service and leadership at the department, school, and institution levels, including serving as an advisor to students or student organizations; committee presentations; activities related to accreditation; serving as a consultant; engaging in practice in the discipline or profession; being appointed to editorial and other boards; and awards and honors. Outside of South College, actively participating in community and professional organizations.

Overall evaluation of the service component is based on performance in three areas: institutional service, community service, and professional service. Evaluation is based on all three areas, although it is recognized that differences in emphasis may exist. Specific documentation should be developed using the following guidelines:

1. Performance in service/outreach as related to assigned duties and the mission/strategic goals of the institution/school/department.

2. The faculty member’s effectiveness and accomplishments as judged by his/her impact on the institution, individuals, groups, or organizations served. This should include documentation of the success of his/her internal and external service, in terms of improvement of communities, organizations, institutions, programs, operating agencies, production processes, or management practices. It should also include indications of satisfaction with the service provided and


of the magnitude and complexity of his/her work (as opposed to perfunctory activity that does not lead to useful results).

3. Service/outreach work is sometimes not publishable. The results may be in the form of direct consultations, planning reports, or instructional time directed largely to the recipients of college service programs. Certain aspects of service work, however, are suitable for publication in professional journals. For example, unique techniques developed to motivate students or others, or new approaches to the transfer and application of knowledge, would be of interest to peers in other public service programs.

4. Performance in the advisement and mentoring of students.

Examples of how faculty may fulfill this category based on the 4 guidelines above include the following:

1. A faculty member may serve the institution in a variety of ways. Examples include participatory membership in department, school, or institution-wide committees, assumption of leadership roles for indicated committees, or participating in approved special projects or assignments.

2. Community service involves the faculty member giving of his/her time and professional expertise outside the institution to the community at large; professional service involves contributions to organizations related to the faculty member’s academic discipline, profession or to the teaching profession generally. Examples might be working with area K-12 schools, consulting, providing professional expertise, supporting charitable organizations or causes, serving on local, statewide, or national committees (professional or community), guest lecturing at peer institutions and other appropriate activities.

3. The advising and mentoring component of the faculty member’s service might include activities such as advising, mentoring, offering help sessions, holding conferences, sponsoring student organizations and/or participating in student-oriented events, writing letters of reference for students, etc. If necessary, the faculty member describes the nature of his or her participation and assesses the benefit to students of the interaction.

C. Scholarship/Creative Activities/Research

Generally - recognition outside the institution as documented by invited podium and poster presentations, lectureships, and professorships by peer institutions; presentations at scientific, clinical, educational, or professional meetings; publication of books, book chapters, and articles; invited written contribution and service to professional or scientific organizations and committees, especially as a leader (e.g., chair, president); scholarly awards and honors (e.g., international, national, state, local); conduct of independent research projects or assumption of a major role in collaborative research as evidenced by being the principal investigator or a co-principal investigator, including attraction of research grants and contracts; publication of research in discipline-recognized journals; serving on an editorial or peer review board (for publications or


research proposals); and contributions to society journals, newsletters, textbooks, and monographs.

The following are examples of, but not limited to, appropriate activities for fulfilling this criterion:

1. Scholarly pursuits in support of the academic discipline or the teaching profession, which should include typical professional development activities such as completing courses, attending workshops and professional conferences, attending training seminars, etc.

2. Implementation and use of cutting-edge approaches to teaching, such as instructional technologies and learning theories.

3. Performances, compositions, and other artistic creations that are evaluated by written reviews and qualified peers, either in person or aided by other forms of reports, or both.

4. Professional or scholarly lectures, posters and papers presented at international, national, or regional/state meetings.

5. Publication of research or scholarly works such as books, book chapters, abstracts, journal articles, and other scholarly papers.

D. Practicing in the Academic Discipline or Profession

Generally - excellence must be demonstrated by the development or application of innovative practice or research programs and activities. The candidate should demonstrate knowledge and proficiency and should be skilled in the applicable practice or research area. Publications in appropriate journals and presentations to peers may also be considered as evidence of scholarly activity relative to practice or research. Excellence may also be demonstrated through recognition from state, regional, national, or international professional organizations.

The following are examples of, but not limited to, appropriate activities for fulfilling this criterion:

1. Development of a high quality practice if the individual is a practitioner or

research program if the individual is a researcher. 2. Service to academic, professional, or scientific organizations on the state,

regional, national, or international level. 3. State, regional, national, or international recognition of expertise and

contribution to the academic discipline or profession, including presentations at scientific and professional meetings, and/or publications in scientific or professional journals.


4. Contributions to educational programming with excellence in teaching or a sustained teaching contribution of high quality, as evidenced by student and peer evaluations of teaching, teaching awards, and participation in both undergraduate and graduate courses.

5. Record of establishing, precepting, or directing quality experiential programs,

if applicable.



APPENDIX B

Process

A. When a full-time faculty member is appointed, the appropriate supervising Dean/Department Chair assigns him/her a mentor who is an experienced member of the faculty (with at least a rank of assistant professor) to aid the faculty member in his/her progress toward movement in rank. Should for any reason a mentor be unable or unwilling to serve, the Dean/Department Chair appoints another mentor at the earliest possible opportunity.

B. Preceding each annual evaluation of the faculty member, that Dean/Department Chair should review and discuss the faculty member’s performance in the three areas of teaching, service, and scholarship for inclusion in the annual review.

C. At the beginning of the fall quarter, the Executive Vice President sends out a notice to all faculty that any faculty member wishing to apply for movement in rank for the upcoming year should submit a Letter of Intent to the Dean/Department Chair by the last day of fall quarter. This Letter of Intent should clearly indicate the faculty rank sought during the upcoming review cycle. The Dean/Department Chair should communicate to the Executive Vice President the list of those within his/her program(s) submitting Letters of Intent.

D. Prior to the fall quarter meeting of the Academic Council, each of the following areas selects a representative to serve as a member of the Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee (referred to as Committee hereafter) and submits the name of the representative to the Chair of the Academic Council. The Academic Council, at its fall quarter meeting, approves the composition of the Committee.

General Studies School of Business School of Education School of Health Professions School of Legal Studies School of Physician Assistant Studies

The above referenced Committee members are appointed for two year terms (Note: Upon implementation of the South College Faculty Rank System, for year one, as randomly designated, half of the members will be assigned one year terms and the other half two year terms). Committee members may not be seeking movement in rank during the upcoming year. The list of membership of the Committee for the upcoming year is submitted to the Executive Vice President by the Academic Council Chair.


In addition, upon election of the Vice Chair of the Academic Council at its February meeting, the Vice Chair will join the membership of the Committee. The Vice Chair will only serve a one year term.

E. Before the end of the fall quarter, the Executive Vice President meets with the Committee to discuss peer review procedures and to establish the final review calendar for the upcoming year. At this meeting, the Committee elects from among its members a Chair to serve for the coming year. The calendar is published on the Faculty Portal and distributed to faculty members by the end of fall quarter. The Committee Chair reviews procedures for portfolio preparation with the Deans/Department Chairs.

F. By the first week of classes of the winter quarter, any faculty member intending to apply for movement in rank should meet with his/her Dean/Department Chair to review procedures for portfolio completion. An Application for Rank Review should be completed and submitted to the Dean/Department Chair.

G. The eligible faculty member must develop a portfolio that includes his/her current curriculum vitae/resume, formal annual reviews, and supporting documentation, as discussed in the relevant areas of Appendix A relating to teaching, service, and scholarship, and where applicable, practicing in the academic discipline or profession, for the preceding five years (See Appendix D). Applicants should submit portfolios to their Dean/Department Chair by the first day of the spring quarter. The Dean/Department Chair verifies that the guidelines for portfolio content have been met and that information included is presented in an appropriate and understandable format. If revisions are necessary, the Dean/Chair notifies the faculty member.

H. Once the portfolio is approved for completeness of content and guidelines, the Dean/Department Chair completes a review of the portfolio. In addition, the Dean/Department Chair provides a completed Dean/Department Chair Faculty Rank Review Recommendation Form. This form should include the recommendation of the Dean/Department Chair in relation to the rank for which the faculty member is applying, as well as justification for the recommendation or non-recommendation.

I. If the Dean’s/Department Chair’s recommendation is positive, he/she is responsible for delivering the completed portfolio and the completed Dean/Department Chair Faculty Rank Recommendation Form to the Office of the Executive Vice President by the end of the fourth week of the spring quarter. These materials will then be reviewed at the scheduled meeting of the Committee during the eighth week of the spring quarter. If the recommendation of the Dean/Department Chair is not of a positive nature, the Dean/Department Chair consults with the faculty member to determine an action plan. Normally this plan will include actions necessary to document additional accomplishments in one or all of the three areas of teaching, service, and scholarship. It is possible that this action plan may delay the faculty member’s movement in rank to the following year. If the Dean/Department Chair and the faculty member cannot agree on an action plan, or the faculty member does not feel that the action plan is warranted,


the faculty member may request that indicated materials be sent to the Committee – in essence to appeal the decision of the Dean/Department Chair.

J. Peer Review Meetings/Vote:

1. The Committee meets during the eighth week of the spring quarter. The office of the Executive Vice President will make available copies of all materials submitted by each applying faculty member to each Committee member during the fifth week of the spring quarter. Upon receiving the materials, each Committee member is required to sign an agreement of confidentiality relating to materials and discussions pertinent to the review process. Materials are reviewed by the Committee members during the sixth and seventh weeks of the spring quarter. At the scheduled meeting of the Committee, all members present for voting are required to have read the materials for each faculty member and verify this reading. Absentee votes will only be accepted if arranged in advance by the Committee member with the Chair and the absence is unavoidable due to teaching schedule or other acceptable reason.

2. During the peer review meeting there is an opportunity for discussion of each applying faculty member and the materials submitted by the faculty member. The discussion must be limited to items outlined in the job description and categories by which faculty are evaluated. Peers then vote by secret ballots which are collected and sealed by the Committee Chair (See Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee Ballot). Vote results are not announced to peer group faculty or to faculty under review.

3. In the event that the Committee determines that additional information is required from the faculty member, the appropriate Dean/Chair will be notified. The additional information must be submitted to the office of the Executive Vice President by the first day of the summer quarter. Copies of the additional information will be distributed to the Committee members during the end of the first week of the summer quarter. The Committee will reconvene during the second week of the summer quarter. If the additional requested information is not received by the prescribed schedule, the review of the faculty member will be discontinued for the current cycle.

4. If unusual circumstances arise, such as unexpected absences of Committee members, the Committee reserves the right to postpone the scheduled meeting and reconvene at a later scheduled date.

5. After the Committee meeting, the Chair and Executive Vice President count the ballots and record results of the peer group votes for each faculty member applying for movement in rank (See Faculty Rank Peer Review Voting Results Forms A and B). Faculty Rank Peer Review Voting Results Form A’s are completed. A recommendation for movement in rank results when a majority vote for recommendation is received. Non-recommendation of movement in rank results when a majority of non-support is received. A letter is completed by the Committee Chair and attached to any Form A’s indicating non-recommendation. These materials are delivered to the appropriate


Dean/Department Chair within two weeks of the Committee meeting and a copy delivered to the office of the Executive Vice President. Faculty Rank Peer Review Voting Results Form B’s are delivered to the office of the Executive Vice President. By no later than two business days following the delivery of information to the Deans/Department Chairs, each Dean/Chair, as appropriate, verbally and in writing notifies applicable faculty members of the recommendation or non-recommendation made by the Committee. If a Dean/Chair has applied for movement in rank, both Form A and B are kept by the Executive Vice President who will then notify the Dean/Chair of the decision. (Note – If a faculty member wishes to withdraw from consideration an application for movement in rank at this point, he/she may do so.)

K. The Executive Vice President adds the Voting Results Form to each faculty member’s previously received materials. The business office is notified as appropriate.

L. If the faculty member wishes to appeal a non-recommendation decision of the Committee, he/she may seek an interview with the Executive Vice President. The office of the Executive Vice President must be contacted within three business days of the faculty member being informed by the Dean/Department Chair of the non-recommendation. The interview will be scheduled within one week. The faculty member must submit a narrative describing the issues related to the appeal prior to the interview. Once the interview is conducted, the Executive Vice President reserves the right to also interview anyone believed necessary to further examine the issues raised by the faculty member. The decision of the Executive Vice President is communicated verbally, followed by a written memo, to the faculty member, the Chair of the Committee, and the associated Dean/Department Chair.

M. If the faculty member wishes to appeal the decision of the Executive Vice President, the faculty member may appeal in writing to the President. The office of the President must be notified of the intent to appeal within three days of the communication of the decision of the Executive Vice President and a written appeal submitted to the President within five days of notifying the President of the intent to appeal. The President’s decision is final.

N. All materials submitted relating to the faculty movement in rank application, all materials generated by the Committee, the content of all discussions of the Committee, the ballots cast by the Committee, and any other information and materials, are retained by the office of the Executive Vice President and are confidential.

.



APPENDIX C

Documentation Guidelines for Application for Movement in Faculty Rank

Preparation of the Portfolio The portfolio should be placed in a three-ring binder arranged by sections. Tabbed dividers are required and must be easily visible when opening the binder. Sheet protectors may be used where needed, but do not utilize for regular printed pages. The cover of the three-ring binder should include the name of the faculty member, the type of document identified (South College System for Faculty Rank – Portfolio), and the date of submission. Table of Contents

I. Application of Intent to Apply for Movement in Faculty Rank (as submitted to the Dean/Department Chair by the end of the fall quarter).

II. Dean/Department Chair Faculty Rank Review Recommendation Form relating to the current rank review process.

III. Curriculum Vitae IV. Teaching

a. Statement of Teaching Philosophy b. Documentation – 6 Identified Areas

V. Service a. Institution b. Profession c. Community

VI. Scholarship/Creative Activities/Research VII. Practicing in the Academic Discipline or Profession (if applicable) VIII. Annual Evaluation by Dean/Department Chair for three years in current rank IX. Appendices

a. Teaching b. Service c. Scholarship/Creative Activities/Research d. Practicing in the Academic Discipline or Profession (if applicable)

All portfolios submitted become the property of South College at the time of submission. Portfolios should not contain original documents, but copies of the original. The faculty member submitting the dossier shall retain the original of each photocopied document and provide the original to the Peer Review Committee Chair or the Executive Vice President and Provost upon request. South College will dispose of portfolios after five years. The period of time for faculty to file a grievance regarding any decision in relation to movement in rank is defined in Appendix B of this document.


The lists below are suggestions for what might be included in the portfolio for documentation. Other items are acceptable. The list is meant to be helpful to stimulate the thinking process, not as an exhaustive list. Do not include every test, quiz, piece of student work, or thank you note. A representative sample is sufficient.

A. Teaching: Examples of Documentation Writing exercises Proposal request Course syllabi Lecture notes or lecture outline Projects Lesson plan Reading guides Homework assignments/schedule Quizzes or exams Study guides Evaluation instruments Review sheets Library assignments Project overview/description Handouts Student comments/feedback Rubrics Student written work Science experiments Sample assignments Research assignments Samples of student work Lab activities Student journals/journal entries Personal mission statement Videos Letters of commendation Written student evaluations Screen shots of Moodle usage above basic

Post-graduate continuing education teaching evaluations

Methods of showing incorporation of information into classroom

Unique PowerPoint slide outline or printout

Teaching recognition awards/certificates Survey data from students/graduates/alumni directly relating to courses taught

Evidence of program/curricular development

Textbook reviews

Library/resource reviews and updates Test results evidencing students learning such as Praxis exams that are course specific

Documentation of course changes made based on student data

Note: The summary of the formal student evaluations provided to each faculty member at the end of each quarter for the course(s) taught during the quarter are required to be included in the Portfolio. All summaries for the three-year period prior to the application for movement in rank shall be included.


B. Service: Examples of Documentation

Meeting minutes evidencing institutional committee participation

List of program advisees – Narrative of advising activities

Documentation of institutional special projects completed

Documentation of special help sessions provided to students

Acknowledgement by colleague for serving as a substitute

Copies of letters of reference, recommendations, student assistance, and nominations for awards

Thank you letters/cards/e-mails E-mails/memos from committee chairs evidencing

Letters evidencing service on accreditation or other review teams

Handwritten notes of event

E-mail or brochure regarding activity/event/campaign

Newspaper release evidencing participation in event, organization, etc.

Agenda, minutes, or program with your contribution mentioned

Letter/certificates of acknowledgement/ appreciation/achievement

Agenda/minutes of program advisor meetings

Volunteer schedule/badge

Committee member list Program of event Planning report Challenging teaching schedule Evidence of Continuing Education program review

Evidence of review of articles, books, chapters, etc. for colleagues

Evidence of institutional inservice program designed and presented

C. Scholarship/Creative Activities/Research (Professional Development): Examples of Documentation Chapter or Textbook publication letter Evidence of major course revision

including all associated materials and data

Abstracts for professional conference Conference materials/handouts/programs with narrative describing benefits

Certificates of attendance Membership card/directory Copies of publications in journals or media

Notification of publications

Letters of acceptance of paper, presentation, poster, etc.

Copy of internal research project (prior approval from supervisor)

Sample of presentation to professional organization or business

Copy of external research project (prior approval from supervisor and EVP)

Notification of grant receipt Grade transcript Written reviews and evaluations by qualified peers

Evidence new program design including curriculum and associated materials


D. Practicing in the Academic Discipline or Profession (if applicable)

Practice innovations created and implemented

Copies of publications in journals or media

Practice innovations not create but implemented

Notification of publications

Awards for improving the quality of practice

If practice involves supervising students, reports of student evaluations

Awards for advancing academic discipline or profession

Sample of presentation to professional organization or business

Letters of acceptance of paper, presentation, poster, etc.



APPENDIX D

FORMS

APPLICATION FOR INITIAL FACULTY RANK

DOCUMENTATION OF INITIAL FACULTY RANK

DEAN/DEPARTMENT CHAIR FACULTY RANK REVIEW FORM

FACULTY RANK PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE FORM A

FACULTY RANK PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE

FORM B

FACULTY RANK PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE VERIFICATION OF REVIEW AND CONFIDENTIALITY

FACULTY RANK PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE

ABSENTEE BALLOT REQUEST

FACULTY RANK PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE BALLOT FOR FACULTY RANK REVIEW

FACULTY MEMBER REQUEST FOR APPEAL OF

FACULTY RANK PEER REVIEW COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION


APPENDIX 0


BYLAWS OF THE ACADEMIC COUNCIL

of

SOUTH COLLEGE Article I. Name The name of the body constituted in this document shall be the Academic Council of South College. Article II. Membership 1. Ex-Officio Members - The President, Executive Vice President and Placement Coordinator

are ex-officio members of the Academic Council. Ex-officio members or their designated representatives are entitled to attend meetings of the Academic Council but are non-voting members.

2. Appointed Members - The Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student

Services, Deans, Department Chairs, Registrar, Director of Instructional Technology and the Head Librarian are appointed members of the Academic Council by virtue of their positions and are voting members.

3. Regular Faculty Members - The faculty shall elect, in accordance with the procedures set

forth in Article III, six regular faculty members of the Academic Council who shall be voting members. A regular faculty member shall serve a three year term and may not serve consecutive terms.

4. Alternate Faculty Members - The faculty shall elect, in accordance with the procedures set

forth in Article III, two alternate faculty members of the Academic Council who will serve in the place of an absent regular faculty member. Alternate faculty members are non-voting members except when serving in the place of an absent regular faculty member. An alternate faculty member shall serve a one year term and may not serve consecutive terms.

5. Advisory Members - The Academic Council, by a majority vote of its voting members,

may designate persons not included in the foregoing categories of members who shall have the privilege of attendance and discussion at meetings of the Academic Council but who are non-voting members.

Article III. Election of Regular and Alternate Faculty Members

1. The three year term of two of the six regular faculty members shall expire upon their

successors being duly elected in an annual election in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Article III.

2. The one year term of the two alternate faculty members shall expire upon their successors

being duly elected in an annual election in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Article III.


3. In November, the Chair of the Academic Council shall notify Deans and Chairs regarding the annual election period. By not later than the last business day of November, each school and department will meet to recommend two nominees and transmit the names of the nominees to the Chair of the Academic Council. To be eligible for nomination, a faculty member must have held a faculty appointment at South College for at least one year, and if an adjunct faculty member, he or she must be considered a continuing adjunct faculty member that teaches each quarter.

4. The nominees from each school and department will be reviewed by the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Academic Council to confirm their eligibility. If any nominee(s) is found to be ineligible, the Chair shall inform the Dean or Chair of the school or department that submitted the ineligible nominee(s). The school or department shall then submit a replacement nominee(s) by a date specified by the Chair of the Academic Council.

5. The Chair and Secretary of the Academic Council will prepare a ballot with appropriate

instructions. The school and departments and the nominees from each school and department shall be listed on the ballot in alphabetical order.

6. The ballot will be distributed, marked and collected during a time reserved for such purpose

at the December faculty meeting. Faculty members not attending the meeting shall be provided a ballot by the faculty member’s Dean or Chair. Faculty members shall mark and return the ballot according to the deadline and location conspicuously placed on the ballot by the Chair of the Academic Council.

7. All faculty members holding a faculty appointment at South College for at least one year

shall be eligible to vote, and voting shall be by paper ballot. 8. Each eligible faculty member shall be permitted to vote for four nominees from among all

of the nominees included on the ballot, but may vote for no more than two nominees from each school or department. All ties will be resolved by a run-off election by paper ballot distributed by the Chair of the Academic Council to all faculty members eligible to vote. Faculty members shall mark and return the ballot according to the deadline and location conspicuously placed on the ballot by the Chair of the Academic Council.

9. The two regular faculty member vacancies shall be filled by the two nominees receiving the

two highest numbers of votes cast. The two alternate faculty member vacancies shall be filled by the two nominees receiving the two next highest numbers of votes cast.

10. The Chair and Vice-Chair of the Academic Council, together with one regular faculty

member of the Academic Council designated by the Academic Council, will be responsible for collecting and tabulating the ballots. Notification to elected regular and alternate faculty members will be made prior to the February meeting of the Academic Council, at which meeting the newly elected regular and alternate faculty members will be seated on the Academic Council.

Article IV. Officers 1. Chair - The Chair of the Academic Council will be the elected Vice-Chair from the

previous year. The Chair will serve one year in this office, with the term of office beginning at the February meeting of the Academic Council. The Chair shall be the presiding officer at meetings of the Academic Council and is responsible for seeing that the agenda and minutes of meetings of the Academic Council are prepared and kept and shall


carry out any other activities specified in these Bylaws or as may be directed by the Academic Council.

2. Vice-Chair - The Vice-Chair of the Academic Council shall be elected from among the

voting members of the Academic Council on a yearly basis by the members of the Academic Council. At the November meeting of the Academic Council the Chair shall call for nominations for the office of Vice-Chair and shall thereafter prepare a paper ballot listing the nominees in alphabetical order. The ballot shall be distributed, marked and collected at the February meeting of the Academic Council. The collected ballots shall be handed to the immediate past Chair, or in the absence of the immediate past Chair to a regular faculty member designated by the Academic Council, who shall tabulate the ballots and announce the nominee receiving the highest number of votes cast, who shall then be installed as Vice-Chair prior to adjournment of the February meeting. The person elected to the office of Vice-Chair will serve a one year term as Vice-Chair, followed by a one year term as Chair. The respective terms will each begin at the February meeting of the Academic Council. The Vice-Chair shall be the presiding officer at meetings of the Academic Council in the absence of the Chair. The Vice-Chair shall assist the Chair in preparation of the agenda and minutes of meetings of the Academic Council and in other business of the Academic Council as identified or delegated by the Chair.

3. Secretary - The Administrative Assistant to the Executive Vice President shall serve as the

Secretary for meetings of the Academic Council and shall keep accurate minutes and records of all meetings of the Academic Council, and shall assist the Chair and Vice-Chair in preparing materials prior to each meeting of the Academic Council and such other activities as necessary to carrying out the business of the Academic Council. The Secretary shall have the privilege of attendance at meetings of the Academic Council, but not the privilege of voting. In the absence of the Secretary, the Executive Vice President shall designate a person to serve as Secretary for the meeting.

Article V. Duties and Jurisdiction 1. The Academic Council is constituted for the purpose of supporting achievement of the

academic mission and objectives of South College. Functions of the Academic Council include, as applicable, recommending, reviewing, interpreting and approving academic policies, admission and graduation requirements, teaching and learning methods, curricula, courses and assessment of student learning and curricular effectiveness.

2. The Academic Council shall consider any matter referred to it by the President, Executive

Vice President, Placement Coordinator, or any member or members jointly of the Academic Council.

Article VI. Meetings and Procedures 1. The Academic Council shall meet at least quarterly, with meetings to be held at a place to

be designated by the Chair of the Academic Council on the second Thursday at 3:00 p.m. in the months of February, May, August, and November. The Chair may alter the meeting date and/or time when in conflict with holidays or other activities or events. Special meetings may be called by the President, Executive Vice President and Chair of the Academic Council, or by written request of a minimum of four members of the Academic Council.


2. The Chair shall provide notice to each member of the Academic Council reasonably in advance of any meeting. This notice shall contain the agenda for the meeting, the minutes of the last meeting and such other information as may be necessary for advance study by the members of the Academic Council. The Chair will set the agenda for meetings of the Academic Council. The President, Executive Vice President, Placement Coordinator, or any member of the Academic Council may recommend items for inclusion on the agenda.

3. The order of business at each meeting of the Academic Council shall be:

a. Call to Order b. Roll Call and Determination of Quorum c. Approval of Minutes of Last Meeting d. Old Business e. New Business f. Announcements g. Adjournment

4. New business intended for discussion at a regular meeting of the Academic Council shall

be presented in writing to the Chair of the Academic Council a minimum of two weeks in advance of the meeting. Members of the Academic Council shall have the right to present proposals from the floor at any time.

5. A majority (51%) of the voting members of the Academic Council shall constitute a

quorum. 6. At all meetings of the Academic Council, voting shall be by voice, by show of hands, by

rising vote, or by paper ballot, as decided by the presiding officer. It shall be in order, however, for any voting member of the Academic Council to move for a vote by ballot. A majority vote of voting members present at the meeting of the Academic Council shall decide a motion.

7. Proxy voting may be allowed on specific motions if that proxy is submitted to the Chair in

writing in advance of the meeting at which the motion is to be considered. Any subsequent amendments to the original motion shall automatically invalidate the proxy vote.

8. Business matters requiring expedited action by the Academic Council may be acted on

either at a special called meeting or by electronic balloting. If a matter is to be acted on at a special meeting, the special meeting shall be called and conducted as provided in Section 1 of this Article VI. If a matter is to be acted on by electronic balloting, a request for electronic balloting shall be presented to the Chair of the Academic Council by the President, Executive Vice President or four members of the Academic Council. The request shall be presented to the Chair in writing and shall include a statement of the necessity for expedited action and a statement of the action requested, with the action requested stated in the form of a formal motion, with the name of the person offering the motion and the name of the person seconding the motion included. The Chair and Vice-Chair shall promptly prepare and then electronically distribute an appropriate ballot to the voting members of the Academic Council in accordance with a procedure agreed upon by the Academic Council members. Upon conclusion of the electronic balloting the Chair shall promptly announce the result of the electronic balloting.


9. Any faculty member with a current faculty appointment at South College may attend meetings of the Academic Council as an observer, or as a participant in discussion upon the invitation of a member of the Academic Council.

Article VII. Recognition of South College Policies, Procedures, Catalog and

Handbooks The Academic Council shall, in the conduct of the Council’s activities, recognize and adhere to South College policies, procedures, catalog and handbooks. Any matter not specifically addressed in these Bylaws shall be governed by South College policies, procedures, catalog and handbooks. Article VIII. Standing Committees Standing Committees support the Academic Council in carrying out its duties and shall initiate recommendations and receive matters referred by the Academic Council for study and recommendation. Standing Committees shall report to the Academic Council when necessary or when requested by the Chair of the Academic Council. Standing Committees shall meet at least once annually and at such other times as determined necessary by the Chair of the Standing Committee or the Chair of the Academic Council. The process for appointing members to each Standing Committee is provided below in the description for each Standing Committee. A majority (51%) of Standing Committee members shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of conducting business at any regular or called special meeting. Actions by Standing Committees shall be supported by a majority (51%) vote of the members present at any regular or called special meeting of the Committee. 1. Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee. The Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee serves

as a peer group to advise Deans, Department Chairs and the Executive Vice President on the South College System for Faculty Rank. The Committee reviews and makes recommendations concerning the Standards, Criteria and Process for faculty appointment and movement in faculty rank. The Committee makes recommendations on faculty appointments and on faculty applying for movement in faculty rank in accordance with the South College System for Faculty Rank. The Committee shall consist of one representative from each of the following Schools and Departments, and the composition of the Committee shall be approved annually by the Academic Council. General Studies School of Business School of Education School of Health Professions School of Legal Studies School of Nursing School of Pharmacy School of Physician Assistant Studies

2. The Graduate Studies Committee. The Graduate Studies Committee shall advise the Academic Council with regard to programs at a more advanced degree level. The Committee shall be responsible for reviewing proposals for new programs, making recommendations on proposals for new programs, proposing policies and procedures related to program admission and graduation, assessing outcomes of program curricula and responding to other matters presented to the Committee by the Academic Council.


Membership includes the Dean of each South College program that offers a Bachelor of Science degree, the Dean of each South College program that offers a post-baccalaureate degree or certificate, the Chair of the Science Department and the Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services.

Article IX. Amendment or Repeal of Bylaws Motions for change or repeal of any Bylaw shall be presented in writing to all members at a regular meeting of the Academic Council. The proposed amendment shall be voted on at the next regular meeting of the Academic Council and must carry by a two-thirds vote of the voting members present and voting. History: Originally adopted on 7 February 2008. Amended on 10 July 2008 to redesignate Article VIII as Article IX and to add new Article VIII on Graduate Studies Committee. Amended on 14 May 2009 to redesignate Section 8 of Article VI as Section 9, and to add a new Section 8 to Article VI to authorize action by electronic balloting. Amended on 9 July 2009 to retitle Article VIII as Standing Committees, designate the existing language of Article VIII as Section 2 and to add introductory language and Section 1 on Faculty Rank Peer Review Committee. Amended on 12 November 2009 to revise Article II, Article V and Article VI to designate the Registrar and the Director of Instructional Technology as Appointed Members. Amended on 12 May 2011 to revise Article VIII to add the School of Pharmacy to Section 1. Amended on 10 November 2011 to revise Article VIII to add the School of Nursing to Section I and to replace the language “Dean of Academic Support and Student Services” to “Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Student Services” to Article II, Section 2 and Article VIII, Section 2. Amended on 8 January 2014 to revise Article VI to reflect a change in the meeting months from February, May, July, and November, to February, May, August, and November.

Documents

TABLE OF CONTENTS - South College · South College Faculty Handbook 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Section Page _____ INTRODUCTION 3