WAC 132U-120-040   Student rights.  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 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 rights and responsibilities is entitled, upon request, to procedural due process as set forth in this chapter.

     (3) Distribution and posting. Students may post or distribute printed or published material. Such distribution and posting is subject to college rules and procedures available in the student programs office.

     (4) Outside speakers. Recognized student organizations shall have the right to invite outside speakers to speak on campus subject to the availability of campus facilities, funding, and compliance with the college procedures available in the student programs office.

     (5) Commercial activities.

     (a) College facilities may not be used for commercial solicitation, advertising, or promotional activities unless the activities clearly serve educational objectives and fit within the mission of the college. The commercial activities may be conducted under the sponsorship or the request of a college department or official student organization.

     (b) These sponsored commercial activities must be scheduled and approved by the director of student programs conducted in a manner not to interfere with or operate to the detriment of college functions or the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

     (6) Student participation in college governance.

     (a) Whatcom Community College recognizes the special role that students have in the development and maintenance of student programs.

     (b) The college provides opportunities for students to participate in college governance, including the formulation of college policies and procedures relevant to students, through representation by the Associated Students of Whatcom Community College (ASWCC).

     (c) Students are also appointed, according to the ASWCC constitution and bylaws, to serve on a variety of college committees.

     (7) Right of assembly.

     (a) Fundamental to the democratic process are the rights of free speech and peaceful assembly. Students may conduct or may participate in any assembly on college facilities provided that such assemblies:

     (i) Are conducted in an orderly manner;

     (ii) Do not unreasonably interfere with classes, scheduled meetings or ceremonies, or regular functions of the college;

     (iii) Do not unreasonably interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic; or

     (iv) Do not cause destruction or damage to college property, including library materials, or private property on college facilities.

     (b) Any student group or student organization that intends to conduct an assembly must reserve the college "free speech area" through the office of the director of student programs.

     (c) Assemblies that violate these rules may be ordered to disperse by a college official. If the college "free speech area" is available, the college official may allow the activities to move to that area. If the assembly does not respond to the instructions within a reasonable time, the college official shall call the police to handle as a civil matter.

     (d) A nonstudent who violates any provision of the rule will be referred to civilian authorities for criminal prosecution.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 28B.50.130 and 28B.50.140. 03-01-072, § 132U-120-040, filed 12/12/02, effective 1/12/03; 88-15-005 (Order 88-03), § 132U-120-040, filed 7/8/88.]