Student Rights and Responsibilities

AIDS Policy Statement

The following is an excerpt of the Lamar State College Orange Policy on AIDS. Any employee, student or contractor of the College may request a copy of the AIDS Policy in its entirety from the Human Resources Department.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a fatal disease that has become a nationwide public health problem.

Lamar State College Orange acknowledges the seriousness of this problem. In health-related matters such as this, the College follows the guidelines of recognized authorities including the National Center for Disease Control, the United States Public Health Service, the Department of State Health Services and the American College Health Association. Further, the College shall conform its actions to the Texas Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Act and other laws.

No current evidence exists that individuals infected with human immunodeficiency (HIV), the “AIDS Virus,” can infect other individuals by casual contact. Accordingly, there is no reason to exclude individuals with AIDS, AIDS-Related Complex (ARC) or a positive test for antibody to HIV from campus academic, from social or cultural activities. Therefore, on the basis of current knowledge of the disease, individuals sharing common living space, work or study areas, libraries, classrooms, recreational facilities, and theaters do not represent a problem or public threat to the campus community.

Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

Lamar State College Orange does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to, access to or operations of its programs, services or activities. Lamar State College Orange does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring or employment practices.

Under the ADA a person has a disability if he/she has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity.

This notice is provided as required by Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.

Questions, concerns, complaints or requests for additional information regarding the ADA may be forwarded to Lamar State College Orange’s designated ADA Accessibility Coordinator in room 116 of the Ron E. Lewis Building.

Individuals who need auxiliary aids for effective communication in programs and services of Lamar State College Orange are invited to make their needs and preferences known to the Office of Accessibility Services, first floor of the Ron E. Lewis Building.

Refer to the Disability Support Services heading under the Student Resources section of the catalog for more details.

Computer Use Policy

The computing facilities at Lamar State College Orange are provided for the use of all students, full or part time, in all programs of the college. Students are responsible for seeing that these facilities are used in an effective, efficient, ethical, and lawful manner. Lamar State College Orange reserves the right to access and disclose any documents (either hard copy or electronic format) it deems necessary.

The following rules govern the use of all LSCO computer facilities. Any use of these facilities in any way other than those stated below will be considered a violation of the Lamar State College Orange policy.

• Users shall be accountable for using computing facilities in an effective, ethical, and lawful manner.
• Computer facilities and accounts are owned by LSCO and are to be used for college-related activities only.
• All access to LSCO’s central computer systems must be approved by the Computer Center. All access to department computer systems must be approved by the department.
• An account assigned to an individual for use of the central computers or departmental systems is not to be given to another individual. The individual assigned an account is responsible for all activities for which that account issued. Use of another person’s account is not only a violation of LSCO policy, it is a violation of state law.
• Programs and files are confidential and may be accessed only by those persons authorized to do so.
• Electronic communications facilities (such as email) are for LSCO-related activities only.
• Computer software protected by copyright is not to be copied or moved to another computer without removal of the software from the original computer.
• No software is to be copied or removed from a LSCO computer and placed on a home computer, nor is any home computer software to be loaded onto a Lamar State College Orange computer.
• The Computer Center reserves the right to audit any personal computer on Lamar Orange property at any time for unauthorized software.
• Internet access shall be given by justification of business need. Use of these services must be consistent with the goals of LSCO.

An individual’s computer use privileges will be suspended, if after an administrative review, individual is found to be in violation of these policies. Continued violation of major violations may result in dismissal and/or criminal charges.

Concealed Handguns on Campus

In 2015, the Texas Legislature approved and the governor signed legislation permitting individuals who possess a concealed handgun license to carry a concealed handgun on a college campus. The legislation became effective on August 1, 2016. Lamar State College Orange has developed this policy pursuant to the requirements of Texas Government Code, Title 4, Subtitle B, Chapter 411, Subchapter H, Section 411.2031.

• An individual possessing a valid concealed handgun license is entitled to carry a concealed handgun on the campus and premises of Lamar State College Orange.
• License holders who carry a handgun on campus must carry it on or about their persons, concealed at all times, or secured in a locked, privately-owned or leased motor vehicle.
• A license holder may not carry a handgun that is partially or wholly visible on the campus of Lamar State College Orange.
• Students who expose or otherwise reveal the presence of a concealed handgun are subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion.
• Members of the faculty and staff who expose or otherwise reveal the presence of a concealed handgun are subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
• Any individual who fails to meet the responsibilities required of a concealed handgun license holder may be reported to state authorities and may be subject to penalties that result in the revocation of their license.
• Concealed Handgun License holders are not required to disclose their status to anyone other than a law enforcement officer.
• Lamar State College Orange employees may not, under any circumstances, require faculty, staff, students, or visitors to disclose their concealed handgun status.

Prohibited Concealed Carry Locations

• Any premise where a high school interscholastic event is taking place.
• Any premise where a governmental meeting is taking place.
• Any premise where a formal hearing such as student disciplinary hearing, student grade appeal hearing, or employee disciplinary hearing is being held.
• Any and all Prohibited Concealed Carry Locations must be clearly identified and the campus community must be given advance notice of when and where the restrictions will be imposed. Written notices must include the following language:

Pursuant to Section 30.06, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with a concealed handgun), a person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code (handgun licensing law), may not enter this property with a concealed handgun.

• Any signage designating a Prohibited Concealed Carry Location must meet these minimum requirements: include the above italicized language in both English and Spanish; use contrasting colors with block lettering at least one inch in height; and be displayed in a conspicuous manner clearly visible to the public.

Policy Review

• The president will appoint a Concealed Carry Committee that will in each even numbered year review the policy and its effectiveness. The committee may recommend changes to the Prohibited Conceal Carry Locations and address any other concerns of the campus community.
• Any changes to this policy shall be submitted to the TSUS Board of Regents for approval in accord with the timeline provided in Section 411.2031 of the Texas Government Code.
• The president shall submit a report to the Texas Legislature by September 1st of each even numbered year describing Lamar State College Orange’s policies, rules, regulations, and/or provision relating to the carrying of concealed handguns on campus. The Texas State University System Chancellor and the Board of Regents shall each be provided copies of the report.

Facility Usage

By College Sanctioned Organizations

Registered student, faculty and/or staff organizations may use the college’s buildings and grounds in compliance with reasonable and nondiscriminatory college rules and regulations approved by the college President or designee, that shall specify the policies and procedures under which such organizations may reserve the college’s buildings/and or grounds for their use. Extracurricular use by students, faculty, or staff owned buildings and grounds shall be conducted in accordance with local, state, and college regulations. Such activities shall not disrupt or disturb the property. Registered student, facility, or staff organizations may not enter into joint sponsorship of any on-campus project or program which involves financial commitments or the scheduling or use of facilities with non-students without prior written approval of the college President or his designee through normal administrative channels.

By Outside Groups

Use of grounds and physical facilities of a system college, especially auditoriums, gymnasiums and large rooms by outside individuals, groups, or associations (outside groups) shall be subject to the following rules as well as policies approved by the President or a designee:

Unrestricted use by outside groups of any facilities and grounds is not permitted. Whenever outside groups share in the use of college buildings, it must be upon the invitation of the college and under its joint sponsorship and with the further understanding that all conditions governing such sponsorship are to be set by the college.

The college will not enter into joint sponsorship of any project or program that is to result in private gain for the cooperating individuals, groups or associations unless the President or a designee has reviewed the project or program and has determined that such joint sponsorship serves a public purpose and adequate contractual or other controls ensure its realization as required by Article 3, Section 51 of the Texas Constitution.

The college will not enter into joint sponsorship of any program or activity in which the educational implications or benefits are not self-evident and that does not directly supplement the educational purposes of the System. The college, when entering into joint sponsorship of any program or activity, reserves the right to approve advertising as well as news releases.

Established as a public college body without regard to political affiliation or religious faith, the college cannot be a joint sponsor with any non- campus organization for political or sectarian gatherings. However, the appearance by or on behalf of a candidate for public office may be authorized under conditions prescribed by the board.

The authorization for use of the college’s facilities and grounds for functions other than the college’s own activities shall be at the sole discretion of the President or a designee and subject to the needs and the convenience of the college, which are always to have priority in the scheduling of facilities.

In the case of programs for which the college is a joint sponsor with some other individual, group or organization, the fee to be paid by the co- sponsor will be a matter for negotiation in each case, subject to final approval by the college President or a designee and will be specified in the agreement providing for the joint sponsorship.

Speech and Assembly

Definition

Freedom of inquiry and discussion is basic and essential to intellectual development, provided such freedoms are exercised in a manner that does not illegally derogate the rights of others or interfere with the academic programs and administrative processes of a College. The grounds of all Colleges are traditional public forums, subject to such reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions as the College President may impose.

Off-Campus Speakers in College Facilities

The freedoms of speech and assembly guaranteed by the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution shall be enjoyed by the students, faculty and staff of the College with respect to the opportunity to hear off-campus or outside speakers.

If a registered campus organization is sponsoring a campus speaker, it has the responsibility of making clear the fact that the organization, not the College, is extending the invitation to speak and that any views the speaker may express are the speaker’s own and not necessarily those of the Texas State University System or of the College.

Students, faculty, staff and registered organizations campaigning for public office on behalf of candidates for public office must abide by the provisions of this section.

Speakers to be paid from state funds to speak on the College campus shall speak in a facility that is open to the public. This subsection does not apply to classes, seminars, symposia and conferences intended for the use and benefit of students, faculty, staff and invited guests. No person may obstruct or lessen in any way the opportunity for the audience to see and hear the speaker. The number of students, faculty, staff and guests may be limited to prevent a hazard to the safety of the audience.

Off-campus speakers who have not been sponsored or invited by a registered student, faculty or staff organization or by the College administration shall be prohibited from speaking to groups in campus facilities and buildings unless the speaker is speaking to an off-campus organization that has been authorized to meet on the campus.

With the prior written approval of the College President, the College may, at its sole discretion, lease or rent space in the Student Center or other appropriate buildings or grounds for political rallies and meetings provided that space is made available to legitimate political rallies and meetings and provided that space is made available to legitimate political candidates in a nondiscriminatory fashion and the rent for such space is based on a fair market value.

Time, Place and Manner Restrictions

While freedom of speech and assembly is encouraged, the law recognizes that there is no absolute right to assembly or to make or hear a speech at any time or place regardless of the circumstances, content of speech, purpose of assembly, or probable consequences of such meeting or speech. The issuance of invitations to outside speakers shall be limited as follows:

A request to invite an outside speaker will be considered by the College only when made by a registered student, faculty, or staff organization. No invitation shall be issued to an outside speaker without prior written concurrence of the College President or a designee for scheduling of speaker dates and assignment of campus facilities.

Any speaker request shall be made in writing to the President or a designee by an officer of a registered student, faculty, staff, organization, or by an administrative officer of the College desiring to sponsor the proposed speaker not later than six (6) business days prior to the date of the proposed speaking engagement. This request shall contain the name of the sponsoring organization; the proposed date, time and location of the meeting; the expected size of the audience; and the topic of speech. Any request not acted upon by the College President or a designee within five (5) business days after submission shall be deemed granted.

A request made by a registered organization may be denied only if the College President or the authorized designee determines, after proper inquiry, that the proposed speech will constitute a clear and present danger to the College’s orderly operation as defined in Texas State University System Rules and Regulations.

Where the request for an outside speaker is denied, the sponsoring organization may appeal to the President or an authorized designee in writing within three (3) business days of the denial. A hearing will be held within four (4) business days following the filing of its appeal before an impartial board or administrator appointed by the President for a de novo consideration of the request. Such board or administrator shall make a recommendation to the College President, whose decision shall be final. If the President fails to decide the matter within seven (7) business days following the filing of the appeal, it shall be deemed granted, and the speaker’s invitation may be issued by the organization.

Where the request for an outside speaker is granted and the speaker accepts the invitation, the sponsoring organization shall inform the President or a designee immediately in writing of such acceptance. The President or a designee may, at his/her discretion, require that the meeting be chaired by a member of the administration or faculty and that a statement be made at the meeting that the views presented are not necessarily those of the College or of the sponsoring organization. By acceptance of the invitation to speak, the speaker shall assume full responsibility for any violation of law committed by the speaker while on campus.

Assembly on College Grounds

Any group or person, whether or not a student or employee and whether or not invited by a registered student, faculty or staff organization, may assemble and engage in free speech activities on the grounds of the campus. However, the College President or a designee shall adopt reasonable viewpoint neutral, non-discriminatory rules and regulations as to time, place and manner of such activities and may prohibit such activities if it is determined, after proper inquiry, that the proposed speech constitutes a clear and present danger as defined below.

Clear and Present Danger

Proposed speech, which constitutes a clear and present danger to the College’s orderly operation by the speaker’s advocacy (i.e., preparing the group addressed and steeling it to such action as opposed to the abstract espousal of the propriety of resort to force), may be prohibited. In determining the existence of a clear and present danger, the College President may consider all relevant factors, including whether within the past five (5) years such speaker has incited violence resulting in the destruction of property at any public institution or has willfully caused the forcible disruption of regularly scheduled classes or other educational functions at any such institution. There must be not only advocacy to action but also reasonable apprehension of imminent danger to the essential functions and purposes of the College.

Demonstrations, Publications, Posters

Reasonable and nondiscriminatory rules and regulations as to time, place and manner may be promulgated by the President or a designee of the College to authorize student, faculty, staff, and their registered College organizations to petition, distribute publications, post signs, set up booths and/or peacefully demonstrate on the College campus. Such regulation shall prohibit any activity that would interfere with academic or college programs.

No group or person, whether or not a student or employee, shall publicly display, distribute, or disseminate on the college campus any petition, handbill, or piece of literature, work, or material that is obscene, or libelous, or that advocates the deliberate violation of any federal, state, or local law. Literature may not be distributed where the manner or form of said distribution constitutes disorderly conduct, disrupts classroom discussion, impedes the maintenance of public order, or constitutes a danger to the person distributing or disseminating the material or to any group or individual. No group or person, whether or not a student or employee, shall publicly display, distribute, or disseminate on the Component campus any petition, handbill, or piece of literature, work, or material that is obscene, vulgar, or libelous, or that advocates the deliberate violation of any federal, state, or local law. Literature may not be distributed where the manner or form of said distribution constitutes disorderly conduct, disrupts classroom discussion, impedes the maintenance of public order, or constitutes a danger to the person distributing or disseminating the material or to any group or individual.

Advocacy means addressing the group for imminent action and steeling, bolstering, or bracing it to such action as opposed to the abstract espousal of the moral propriety of a course of action.

Any group or person, whether or not a student or employee, demonstrating on campus shall adhere to the provisions of Texas Education Code, Section 51.935, as cited in Chapter VI, Subsection 5.4, of the Texas State University System Rules and Regulations.

Antisemitism

“Antisemitism” means a certain perception of Jews that may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. The term includes rhetorical and physical acts of antisemitism directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals or their property or toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.

Disruptive Activities

Disruptive activities are prohibited on the campus. See Education Code, Section 51.935 and Chapter VI, Subsection 5.4. The President shall promptly utilize all lawful measures to halt and eliminate any and all such disruptive activities and shall immediately notify the Chancellor and the Chairman of the Board of Regents.

Disciplinary Action

Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from the College, for violating the Speech and Assembly policy.

Freedom of Speech and Expressive Activity Policy

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Protect the free speech rights (expressive activities) of individuals of the LSCO campuses;
2. Preserve LSCO’s primary academic mission; and
3. Protect the health and safety of the LSCO community.

In accordance with state and federal law, as well as the Texas State University System (TSUS) Rules and Regulations, LSCO established the following reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. Any restriction listed below applies equally to individuals and groups, regardless of viewpoint.

In the event of a conflict between this policy and the TSUS Rules and Regulations, the TSUS Rules and Regulations shall control.

Definitions

• Advocacy or Advocates - Addressing a group for imminent action and steeling, bolstering, or bracing it to such action as opposed to the abstract espousal of the propriety of a course of action.
• Amplified sound - Sound volume that is increased by any electric, electronic, mechanical, or motor-powered means. Shouting, group chanting, and acoustic musical instruments are exempt from this definition and are not subject to the special rules on amplified sound but are subject to general rules on disruption and noise violation.
• Antisemitism - A certain perception of Jews that may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. The term includes rhetorical and physical acts of antisemitism directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals or their property or toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
• Commercial Speech - Speech or writing on behalf of a business with the intent of earning revenue or a profit.
• Common Outdoor Areas - Public forums that include the streets, sidewalks, or other common outdoor property owned or leased by LSCO.  
• Designated Areas - areas where amplified sound, exhibits, and temporary structures may be used or displayed within the time, place, and manner specified by the College.
• Disruptive activities include:
  • Obstructing or restraining the passage of persons to the campus or an area of the campus or to an exit, entrance, or hallway of any building without the authorization of LSCO administration;
  • Seizing control of an area of the LSCO campuses, grounds, or any building or portion of a building for the purpose of interfering with any administrative, educational, research, or other authorized activity; or
  • Disrupting and/or preventing or attempting to prevent by force or violence or the threat of force or violence any lawful assembly authorized by LSCO administration. A lawful assembly is disrupted when a person in attendance is rendered incapable of participating in the assembly due to the use of force or violence or a reasonable fear of force or violence.
• Expressive Activities - Any speech or expressive conduct protected by the First Amendment to the United States Constitution or by Section 8, Article I, Texas Constitution, and includes assemblies, protests, speeches, the distribution of written material, the carrying of signs, and the circulation of petitions. The term does not include commercial speech.
• External Speaker - Any individual who is not a current student, faculty, or staff member of LSCO.
• Grounds - All common outdoor areas on LSCO campuses.

Disruptive Activities

The College strictly enforces the TSUS Rules and Regulations’ prohibition of disruptive activities (see Chapter VI, Subparagraph 5.4 and Chapter VII, Subparagraph 3.7) on the LSCO campuses. Any person who violates the prohibition will be subject to any remedies provided by law and the TSUS Rules and Regulations, including, but not limited to, removal from campus, the student or employee disciplinary process, or criminal prosecution.

College Grounds – Designated Traditional Public Forums

Chapter VII, Subparagraph 3.1 of the TSUS Rules and Regulations designates all College grounds as traditional public forums. Any person may engage in Expressive Activities on College grounds, subject to federal and state laws and reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions.

Individuals may utilize the areas specified in the Reservations section of this policy for Expressive Activities.

Speech, Expression, and Assembly

The following time, place, and manner restrictions shall apply to all Expressive Activities on College grounds:

• Expressive Activities must not at any time interfere with or disrupt the academic mission of the College.
• No table, temporary structure, or equipment associated with an Expressive Activity may block or interfere with the means of entrance or egress to any College building, facility, or classroom.
• All tables and chairs must remain within the reserved space for the duration of the activity.
• Use of amplified sound must comply with the restrictions contained in the Amplified Sound section of this Policy.
• Some areas of the College may be reserved by external groups. Fees may apply.
• Improper use of any College equipment or policy may result in loss of reservation and use privileges.
• Expressive Activities must follow the procedures in the Emergency Operation Plan.

Reservations

• Assembly and distribution of written material is permitted in the patio area located immediately outside the East exit of the J.B. Welch Student Center  during normal college operating hours provided the activity complies with this policy, is lawful, and does not disrupt the functioning of the College.
• Other College facilities are available for reservation: Reservations are made through the Event Coordinator by a representative of the sponsoring student, faculty, or staff organization. Reservations may be denied if the activity is scheduled at the same or similar time as another College function or meeting.

Amplified Sound

To preserve the academic and core business of the College, the use of amplified sound is restricted to certain times and designated areas. Use of amplified sound is permitted subject to the following:

• Location: Use of amplified sound is permitted only in the patio area located immediately outside the East exit of the J.B. Welch Student Center  with an approved reservation.
• Reservation: An amplified sound request must be made in conjunction with a reservation request.  
• Hours: The use of amplified sound is permitted from 8am-5pm every day in the patio area located immediately outside the East exit of the J.B. Welch Student Center with an approved reservation. The use of amplified sound is limited to the reservation period in approved, reserved areas.
• Frequency: Organizations are allowed one (1) amplified sound event per week. Only one (1) amplified sound event at a time is permitted in each designated area.
• Volume: All sound levels will be set by LSCO based on class and campus activities schedules and shall not disrupt the academic mission of the College.

External Speakers

• Only recognized student, faculty, or staff organizations and College academic or administrative units may request authorization to invite an external speaker to speak at the College. External Speakers who have not been sponsored or invited by a registered student, faculty, or staff organization or by the LSCO administration may not speak to groups in campus facilities and buildings unless the speaker is speaking to an off-campus organization that has been approved under the procedures provided in Chapter VII, Subparagraph 3.24 of the TSUS Rules and Regulations. No invitation shall be issued to an External Speaker without the prior written approval of the LSCO president or designee.
• Any speaker request shall be made in writing to the LSCO president or designee by an officer of a registered student, faculty, or staff organization, or by an LSCO administrative officer desiring to sponsor the proposed speaker no later than six (6) business days prior to the date of the proposed speaking engagement.
• The sponsor of the External Speaker has the responsibility of making clear that the group or organization, not the College, is extending the invitation to speak and any views the External Speaker may express are the External Speaker’s own and not those of the Texas State University System or LSCO.

Banners, Exhibits, Chalking, and Structures

• Recognized Student Organizations, faculty, and staff may hang banners and display exhibits on campus after approval through the Dean of Student Services. Banners, flyers, or posters may not be affixed in any way to College trees for any purpose. No written materials may be permanently placed.
• Outside groups or individuals are not permitted to hang banners or to display exhibits on any LSCO property.
• No group or person, whether affiliated with LSCO or an External Speaker or group, shall publicly display, distribute, or disseminate on the Campus any petition, handbill, or piece of literature, work, or material that is obscene or libelous, or that advocates the deliberate violation of any federal, state, or local law. Literature may not be distributed where the manner or form of said distribution constitutes disorderly conduct, disrupts classroom discussion, impedes the maintenance of public order, or constitutes a danger to the person distributing or disseminating the material or to any group or individual, or otherwise violates this policy.
• Chalking (use of chalk to write on LSCO property) is strictly prohibited unless it is an assignment in a LSCO course or Student Services activity.
• No permanent or semi-permanent structures are permitted on LSCO property. Temporary structures are only permitted in the patio area located immediately outside the East exit of the J.B. Welch Student Center from 8am-5pm or during the reservation period if an area has been reserved. 
• Anyone who erects a temporary structure, display, or exhibit assumes full responsibility for the structure, display, or exhibit, including all injuries or hazards that may arise from it. The College shall not be liable for any damage that may occur to the structure, display, or exhibit, and any person or organization sponsoring the structure, display, or exhibit shall indemnify the College for any claims arising from their presence on campus.

Disciplinary Process

• Students who violate this policy will be subject to appropriate discipline under LSCO’s Catalog, up to and including expulsion.
• Staff who violate this policy will be subject to appropriate discipline under LSCO’s Policy and Procedure Manual, up to and including termination.
• Faculty who violate this policy will be subject to appropriate discipline under Chapter V, Paragraph 4 of the TSUS Rules and Regulations, up to and including termination.

Student Right to Know About Campus Security

Lamar State College Orange provides this report to comply with the Students Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990. Lamar State College-Orange is a state-assisted institution of higher education located in Orange, Texas. The campus, including the Brown Estate, consists of approximately 100 acres in the city of Orange, Texas, which has a population of approximately 19,000. The college enrolls approximately 3,000 students supported by 250 faculty and staff.

The Students Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act, Section 103, Title I requires institutions to provide information about the completion of graduation rate of degree seeking, full time undergraduate students entering the institution. In place of completion or graduation rates, institutions may elect to publish the percentage of students in each entering class who re-enroll each successive year until completion or graduation. These are called persistence rates.

The persistence rates for first-time freshmen who entered Lamar State College Orange in summer or fall semester and also who were enrolled for 12 or more hours of credit during their first fall semester may be acquired through the Office of Institutional Research by calling (409) 882-3312.

Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics

Published each year, the Lamar State College Orange Annual Security Report provides information on security-related services offered by the college in compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. This document has been prepared with information provided to the LSCO Safety and Security Office.  It summarizes college programs, policies, and procedures designed to enhance your personal safety while you are at LSCO. The LSCO Annual Security Report is available online on the Campus Safety and Security webpage at www.lsco.edu/security/security.asp.

Monitoring of Criminal Activity

The Office of Student Services attempts to monitor any criminal activity of student organizations that might hold activities off campus. Refer to the college’s Code of Student Conduct and Discipline which states in part, “Students are also expected to comply with all federal and state laws. THIS PRINCIPLE EXTENDS TO CONDUCT OFF CAMPUS, WHICH IS LIKELY TO HAVE AN ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE COLLEGE OR ON THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS.

Prohibition on Weapons

It is a violation of LSCO’s and Texas State Univeristy System Rules and Regulations to possess, carry or otherwise cause a firearm, handgun or other prohibited weapon, licensed or otherwise, concealed or otherwise–to be brought onto the premises of a System Campus.

“Premises of a System College” as used in this Section means a structure and the land (including parking lots, garages, or other appurtenances on which the structure is situated) over which this Board has ownership or control. This prohibition extends to leased, borrowed or other facilities where a Texas State University System (TSUS) or College function, event, or activity takes or is taking place but does not apply to:

• Presidentially–approved academic or other programs (for example, ROTC or administrator residences, or College sponsored or approved events);
• law enforcement personnel, acting in performance of their duties;
• the transporting of such firearms handguns, or other prohibited weapons for registration with and storage by the College public safety office; or
• the President’s home and grounds; or
• permitted tracts of the Christmas Mountains area with a special access permit as outlined in the TSUS Christmas Mountains Ranch Policy.

“Prohibited Weapons’ as defined by Texas Penal Code, section 46.01, includes the following;

• “Club” meaning and instrument (for example, a blackjack, nightstick, mace, numb chuck or tomahawk) that is specifically designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person;
• “Explosive weapon”, meaning any explosive or incendiary bomb, grenade, rocket, or mine that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death, or substantial property damage, or for the principal purpose of causing such a loud report as to cause undue public alarm or terror (whether such a weapon is designed, made, or adapted for delivery or shooting);
• “Firearm,” meaning any device designed, made, adapted, or readily adaptable to expel a projectile through a barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance (excluded are antique or curio firearms manufactured before 1899 or replicas thereof, provided they do not use rim fire or center fire ammunition), including, but not necessarily limited to handguns, machine guns, rifles, “zip guns,” stun guns, and “short-barrel firearms”;
• “Illegal knife,” meaning any bladed, hand instrument that:
  • has a blade over five and one-half inches;
  • is capable of inflicting serious bodily injury or death on a person by cutting, stabbing, or throwing (for example, a dagger, dirk, stiletto knife, poniard, bowie knife, switchblade knife, sword, or spear);
• “Knuckles,” meaning any instrument that consists of finger rings or guards made of a hard substance and that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with a fist enclosed in the knuckles.
• “Hoax bomb,” meaning a device that:
  • reasonably appears to be an explosive or incendiary device; or,
  • by its design causes alarm or reaction of any type by policy, public safety, or other administrators at a system component, who are charged with assuring campus safety;
• “Chemical dispensing device,” meaning a device (other than a chemical dispenser sold commercially for personal protection) that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of dispensing a substance capable of causing adverse psychological or physiological effect on a human being.  

Standards of Conduct

Section 5.2 of Chapter VI of the TSUS Rules and Regulations of the Board of Regents, The Texas State University System provides for disciplinary action against any student who engages in conduct that is prohibited by state, federal or local law and for illegal use and for unauthorized use of intoxicating beverages and illegal use of any drug, narcotic or controlled substance.

Section 5.9 of Chapter VI of the TSUS Regent’s Rules and Regulations provides that a student who has been found guilty of the illegal possession, use, sale or distribution of any drug, narcotic or controlled substance, whether the infraction is found to have occurred on or off campus, shall be suspended for a period of not less than the remainder o the semester in which the infraction occurred plus the following long semester. If the semester in which the infraction occurred has ended by the time a student is found guilty, the student shall be suspended for a period of not less than the following two long semesters. This policy is also set out in the student handbook available in the Office of Student Services.

Sexual Misconduct Policy

The following is an excerpt of the Lamar State College Orange Sexual Misconduct Policy. Any employee, student or contractor of the College may request a copy of the Sexual Misconduct Policy in its entirety from the Human Resources Department. It is also available on the LSCO Title IX webpage.

The Texas State University System and Lamar State College Orange are committed to creating and maintaining educational communities in which each individual is respected, appreciated, and valued. LSCO diligently strives to foster an environment that permits and encourages everyone to perform at their highest levels. LSCO’s focus on tolerance, openness, and respect is key in providing every member of the LSCO community with basic human dignity free from all forms of Sexual Misconduct, including Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking. Any report of behavior that threatens our institutional values and breaches this Policy shall be promptly investigated and remediated in accordance with principles of law, fairness, and equity to all Parties involved.

LSCO complies with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), which prohibits sex discrimination in employment; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination based on disability, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, which prohibits discrimination based on age, and the Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act. Sexual misconduct, as defined in the College’s Sexual Misconduct Policy, constitutes a form of sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX and Title VII.

Students Who are Parents or Guardians

LSCO students who are parents or legal guardians to children who are 18 years of age or younger are encouraged to meet with LSCO’s Designated Liaison, Morgan Milligan. Morgan Milligan can be reached at morgan.milligan@lsco.edu or (409) 882-3393.

Students who are Parents or Legal Guardians 

LSCO defines a “parenting student” as one who is a parent or legal guardian of a child/children under 18 years old.  

Pregnant or parenting students will not be required to do any of the following at LSCO solely because of the student’s status as a pregnant or parenting/legal guardian student of a child/children under 18 years of age: 

• take a leave of absence or withdraw from the student’s degree or certificate program; 
• limit the student’s studies; 
• participate in an alternative program; 
• change the student’s major, degree, or certificate program; or 
• refrain from joining or cease participating in any course, activity, or program

Reasonable Accommodations 

LSCO will provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant students that would be provided to a student with a temporary medical condition, or that are related to the health and safety of the student and the student’s unborn child. These may include, but not be limited to allowing the pregnant student to maintain a safe distance from substances, areas, and activities known to be hazardous to pregnant women or unborn children. 

Attendance 

For reasons related to a student’s pregnancy, childbirth, or any resulting medical status or condition, as documented by a medical provider, LSCO will: 

• excuse the student’s absence; 
• allow the student to make up missed assignments or assessments within a reasonable timeframe, as determined by the department; and 
• allow the student additional time to complete assignments in the same manner as LSCO allows for a student with a temporary medical condition; and
• providing students instructional materials that are made available to any other student with an excused absence.

Leave of Absence 

LSCO will allow a pregnant or parenting student to: 

• take a leave of absence; and 
• if in good academic standing at the time the student takes a leave of absence, return to the student’s degree or certificate program in good standing without being required to reapply for admission.

Campus Liaison and Supportive Measures 

Lamar State College Orange has designated the Accessibility Coordinator to serve as a campus liaison to current or incoming students of the College who are the parent or guardian of a child younger than 18 years of age. The Accessibility Coordinator is located in the LSCO Advising Office, Room 116 of the Ron Lewis Library, (409)882-3393. The liaison will provide these students information regarding support services and other resources available to the students at the institution, including resources to access: 

• medical and behavioral health coverage and services; and  
• public benefit programs, including programs related to: 
• food security 
• affordable housing, and housing subsidies;  
• parenting and child care resources;  
• employment assistance;  
• transportation assistance;  
• student academic success strategies; and  
• any other resources developed by the institution to assist the students. 

Requesting Accommodations, Excused Absences, or Leave of Absence 

A student seeking accommodations, excused absences, requesting to make-up missed classes or assignments, or a leave of absence related to pregnancy or parenting, will need to complete an Accommodation Request Form and provide official documentation from the student’s physician/medical provider. This accommodation request form will be reviewed by LSCO’s Accessibility Coordinator. Documentation must include dates for absences requesting to be excused and a statement that absences are deemed medically necessary and/or additional documentation to support the need for absences. 

Tobacco-Free Institution

The Texas State University System Board of Regents passed a rule requiring all component institutions to prohibit the use of ALL tobacco products on properties owned by the System; there will be no exceptions. The Tobacco-Free Policy became effective June 1, 2012. The rule applies to all students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Violators are subject to established administrative/disciplinary policies and procedures. The Tobacco-Free Policy may be viewed on the Lamar State College Orange webpage at www.lsco.edu.