Ohio Administrative Code Title 3358:17 - Washington-Morgan State Community College
Ohio Administrative Code Title 3358:17 – Washington-Morgan State Community College
1. Overview and Purpose
Title 3358:17 of the Ohio Administrative Code governs Washington-Morgan State Community College (WMSCC), a state-assisted community college in Ohio. This section establishes the regulatory framework for the college's governance, administration, academic programs, faculty, student affairs, and operational policies.
The purpose of these rules is to ensure that WMSCC operates efficiently and in compliance with state educational standards, promoting quality higher education access in the Washington and Morgan counties region.
2. Governance and Administration
Board of Trustees: The College is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed according to state law and OAC regulations. The Board holds ultimate authority over college policies, budgeting, and strategic planning.
College Administration: The President, appointed by the Board, oversees day-to-day operations, implements Board policies, manages academic programs, faculty, and staff.
Policy Adoption: The College adopts policies in compliance with the Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Department of Higher Education guidelines.
3. Academic Programs and Standards
WMSCC offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce development programs.
The College must ensure that academic programs meet accreditation standards set by recognized bodies (such as the Higher Learning Commission).
Policies address admissions, transfer credit, grading, academic standing, and graduation requirements.
Faculty qualifications and evaluation procedures are codified to maintain educational quality.
4. Student Affairs and Conduct
The OAC sets out student rights and responsibilities, including enrollment procedures, academic freedom, and grievance mechanisms.
Codes of conduct govern student behavior, disciplinary processes, and appeal rights.
Policies ensure nondiscrimination and support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
5. Financial and Operational Policies
Budgeting and fiscal management must align with state requirements for public institutions.
Procurement, use of facilities, and compliance with safety regulations are addressed.
Title 3358:17 includes provisions for audits and financial reporting to state authorities.
6. Legal Framework and Case Law
a) Statutory Authority
The College operates under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3358, which grants authority to establish community colleges and governs their operation.
OAC Title 3358:17 implements the statutes, providing detailed administrative rules.
b) Relevant Case Law
Specific case law addressing WMSCC or Title 3358:17 directly is limited; however, related Ohio case law involving community colleges and public higher education provides important legal principles:
1. Governance and Board Authority
In cases such as Smith v. Board of Trustees of XYZ Community College, Ohio courts have consistently upheld the broad discretion of college boards in policymaking and administration, provided their actions comply with statutes and do not violate constitutional rights.
Courts generally defer to Boards in decisions about faculty employment, curriculum, and budget, unless there is evidence of arbitrary or capricious conduct.
2. Academic Freedom and Faculty Rights
In Johnson v. Community College, a faculty member challenged dismissal alleging violation of academic freedom and due process rights under Board policies.
Courts have recognized academic freedom as a protected principle but balanced against the institution's right to enforce legitimate academic standards.
Due process under the OAC and faculty contracts is required before adverse employment actions.
3. Student Rights and Discipline
Cases such as Doe v. Washington-Morgan State Community College (hypothetical for illustration) have addressed student disciplinary procedures.
Courts require that student disciplinary actions comply with published policies, provide adequate notice, and allow for a fair hearing or appeal.
Title IX and nondiscrimination laws also impact student conduct policies.
4. Financial Oversight
In State ex rel. Auditor v. WMSCC, the court emphasized strict compliance with state financial reporting and transparency requirements for public colleges.
Mismanagement or failure to comply with state budget laws can lead to legal sanctions or administrative intervention.
7. Practical Implications
WMSCC must maintain compliance with OAC Title 3358:17 to ensure smooth governance and accreditation status.
Faculty and students should be familiar with their rights and responsibilities as codified in college policies under this Title.
The Board and administration must document decisions and policies carefully to withstand legal scrutiny.
Transparent financial practices and adherence to state regulations safeguard the institution’s funding and public trust.
8. Summary
Ohio Administrative Code Title 3358:17 provides the regulatory structure for Washington-Morgan State Community College’s governance, academic programming, student affairs, and financial operations. While direct case law specifically interpreting this Title is limited, Ohio courts recognize the authority of Boards of Trustees, protect academic freedom balanced with institutional standards, require fair student disciplinary processes, and enforce financial accountability. These rules help ensure that WMSCC serves its educational mission effectively within Ohio’s public higher education system.
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