Washington Administrative Code Title 132X - South Puget Sound Community College
The Washington Administrative Code (WAC), Title 132X, is specifically dedicated to South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC). In Washington State's WAC system, each community and technical college generally has its own dedicated Title or chapter to house its institution-specific administrative rules.
These rules are established by the college's Board of Trustees under the authority granted by state law (primarily RCW 28B.50, which governs community and technical colleges). They provide the internal regulatory framework for the college's operations, affecting students, faculty, staff, and the public.
Here's a breakdown of the typical chapters found within WAC Title 132X and their focus:
Chapter 132X-10: Public records.
This chapter details how the public can access records maintained by South Puget Sound Community College, adhering to the Washington State Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). It outlines the process for making requests, designated public records officers, fees for copies, and procedures for reviewing denials of requests.
Chapter 132X-30: Use of college facilities.
These regulations govern the use of college buildings, grounds, and other facilities by students, employees, and external groups. Topics often include scheduling, fees, priority of use, and prohibited activities.
Chapter 132X-40: Environmental protection.
This chapter outlines the college's compliance with the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). It describes how SPSCC evaluates its actions for potential environmental impacts and how it incorporates environmental considerations into its decision-making processes.
Chapter 132X-50: Parking and traffic regulations—South Puget Sound Community College.
These rules establish specific parking zones, traffic flow, vehicle registration requirements, parking permits, and penalties for violations (e.g., fines, towing) on college property.
Chapter 132X-60: South Puget Sound code of student rights and responsibilities.
This is a very important chapter for students, outlining their rights and the standards of conduct expected of them. It typically covers:
Student Rights: Academic freedom, due process, freedom of expression and association, access to student records (FERPA compliance), and a learning environment free from discrimination and harassment.
Prohibited Conduct: A list of behaviors that are considered violations of college policy, such as academic dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism), assault, harassment, drug and alcohol violations, theft, disruption of college operations, and misuse of college property.
Disciplinary Proceedings: Detailed procedures for investigating alleged violations, conducting hearings (including brief adjudicative proceedings and more formal hearings), the role of disciplinary committees, and appeal processes.
Disciplinary Sanctions: A range of penalties that can be imposed, from warnings and probation to suspension and expulsion.
Sexual Misconduct Proceedings: Specific procedures for handling allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct, often aligned with Title IX requirements.
Chapter 132X-70: Faculty tenure.
These rules establish the policies and procedures for faculty tenure and probationary employment at the college, including criteria for evaluation, recommendations for tenure, and procedures for dismissal of tenured or probationary faculty members.
Chapter 132X-80: Course materials sales.
This chapter likely addresses regulations related to the sale of textbooks and other course materials to students, including potentially rules for transparency, pricing, and buyback programs.
Chapter 132X-90: Process for hearings.
This chapter provides general procedural rules for various hearings conducted by the college, ensuring due process and a fair hearing for individuals involved in disputes with the college, beyond just student conduct.
Overall Purpose and Importance:
WAC Title 132X serves several key purposes for South Puget Sound Community College:
Internal Governance: Provides a clear set of rules for the administration and operation of the college.
Student and Faculty Guidance: Informs students and faculty of their rights, responsibilities, and the procedures they can expect if involved in disciplinary matters or other disputes.
Compliance: Ensures the college complies with various state and federal laws (e.g., Public Records Act, SEPA, FERPA, Title IX).
Transparency and Accountability: Makes the college's internal policies and procedures publicly accessible, promoting transparency.
For the most accurate and up-to-date version of these rules, you should always refer to the official sources:
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