As members of the academic community, students are encouraged
to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in an independent
search for truth. Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets
of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate
opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus, and in the larger
community. Students should exercise their freedom with responsibility. The
responsibility to secure and to respect general conditions conducive to the
freedom to learn is shared by all members of the college community.
The following enumerated rights are guaranteed to each student
within the limitations of statutory law and college policy which are deemed
necessary to achieve the educational goals of the college:
(1)
Academic freedom.
(a) Students are guaranteed the rights of
free inquiry, expression, and assembly upon and within college facilities that
are generally open and available to the public.
(b) Students are free to pursue appropriate
educational objectives from among the college's curricula, programs, and
services, subject to the limitations of
RCW
28B.50.090(3)(b).
(c) Students shall be protected from academic
evaluation which is arbitrary, prejudiced, or capricious, but are responsible
for meeting the standards of academic performance established by each of their
instructors.
(d) Students have the
right to a learning environment which is free from unlawful discrimination,
inappropriate and disrespectful conduct, and any and all harassment, including
sexual harassment.
(2)
Due process.
(a) The rights of
students to be secure in their persons, quarters, papers, and effects against
unreasonable searches and seizures is guaranteed.
(b) No disciplinary sanction may be imposed
on any student without notice to the accused of the nature of the
charges.
(c) A student accused of
violating this code of student conduct is entitled, upon request, to procedural
due process as set forth in this chapter.
