CLASS ATTENDANCE
Students are expected to attend all of the classes in which they are enrolled.  Excessive absences are determined by attendance requirements detailed in each class syllabus, which is given out during the first class meeting.  Departments and/or instructors may have strict attendance requirements.   Students will receive these requirements in writing on the syllabi distributed on the first day of class.  Departments may also require written contracts.

If the student is absent excessively, he/she must either withdraw from the class or accept the final grade given by the instructor.  Failure to officially withdraw from a class(s) may result in an “F” grade.  The student shall remain financially responsible for the class.  All class refunds will be calculated in accordance with the refund policy (See the section on Refunds.)

Only instructors may determine what is or is not allowed for make up work.  It is the responsibility of the student to arrange to immediately make up work missed because of class absence.  In cases of prolonged absence, the student must notify the Student Services Office, which will then notify the student’s instructors.  See the Student Handbook at www.linnstate.edu for further details on attendance.

INCLEMENT WEATHER
During severe weather, Linn State Technical College will hold classes beginning at the usual time unless announced otherwise in the public media or on the website at www.linnstate.edu.  The announcement will specifically state Linn State Technical College.  (Announcements regarding Linn R-II do not pertain to Linn State Technical College.)  When it is determined and announced that class starting time should be delayed due to inclement weather, classes will meet on the “Snow Schedule”.  If Linn State Technical College is on “Snow Schedule”, classes will begin at 10:00 a.m.  Those that meet prior to 10:00 a.m. will be cancelled.  Report to your 10:00 a.m. class or the class that would normally be in session at 10:00 a.m.  This will allow students and staff the opportunity to start to classes after the roads have been cleared and the campus prepared.  We do not want to endanger anyone’s safety unnecessarily.  It is necessary that faculty and other personnel arrive as soon as possible to carry on the necessary functions of the college and be available for students as they arrive.  In all cases, use your own judgment regarding hazardous driving conditions.  We will attempt to make a decision and notify the media prior to 6:00 a.m.

ASSESSMENT POLICY
Linn State Technical College is committed to improve student learning and provide opportunities for a successful academic experience for all students.  It is the policy of this institution that all degree or certificate seeking students will be required to participate in institutional assessment at appropriate points of development in their programs of study.

Designed to ensure continuous improvement, LSTC’s assessment process includes placement exams, nationally standardized certification and licensure exams, projects and performance assessments, capstone courses, student needs and satisfaction surveys.  Linn State Technical College will provide an ongoing evaluation of the assessment and placement process.  Such an evaluation occurs on a regular basis and is monitored by the Assessment Committee.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
In addition to meeting the Associate of Applied Science degree or certificate requirements listed in this catalog, all candidates for graduation are required to:

• Complete the New Student Orientation.

• Complete internships and practicum hours as appropriate. 

• Earn a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.000 overall.  Earn a cumulative GPA of at least 2.000 in the core curriculum and program requirements of the degree.  Program standards that exceed this requirement will take precedence.

• Complete and sign an application for graduation (and a petition to participate if applicable) before the deadlines specified by the Academic Records Office.*

• Complete all required assessments and surveys.

• Clear all financial obligations to the college.

• Complete a Financial Aid Exit Interview.

• Complete the Career Services Seminar or the Job Search Strategies class.

*May graduates should apply by the preceding October 1.

*August graduates should apply by the preceding March 1.

*December graduates should apply by the preceding July 1.

Students who do not meet the specified requirements will be ineligible for graduation and must reapply for graduation the following semester.

To participate in graduation ceremonies, students must meet all graduation requirements, obtain a cap and gown from the Student Activities Coordinator, and wear proper attire during the exercise.

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT REQUEST
To request an official Linn State Technical College transcript, submit a Transcript Release from to the Academic Records Office.

GRADING SYSTEM
Many factors determine a grade for a given class.  Preparation of all daily assignments, test scores, class participation, and attendance are some factors in addition to knowledge, understanding and application of the material.

A grade represents an evaluation of a student’s academic performance in a class and is determined by criteria established by the faculty and communicated to students in the class syllabus.  The Linn State Technical College grading system is as follows:

GRADE REPORTS
Grade reports are mailed to students within two weeks after the end of each semester.  Grade reports are mailed to the address the student has designated and cannot be mailed to more than one location.

WITHDRAWING FROM A CLASS
A student may withdraw from a class during the first eight (8) weeks of a sixteen (16) week semester or the first four (4) weeks of an eight (8) week class.  Withdrawal during this time will be recorded on the transcript as “WD”.  Withdrawal after this time will result in a “WP” or “WF”.  After three quarters of any class, withdrawals and “W” grades are not allowed and letter grades are assigned by instructors.

NOTE:  There may be costs associated with withdrawing from any or all classes.  See the sections on “Student Financial Aid Information” and “Refunds” or discuss this with your counselor.

A complete Special Student Schedule for must be submitted to the Academic Records Office to officially withdrew from a class.

Failure to attend class does not constitute withdrawal from that class.  Students remain financially responsible for classes from which they do not officially withdraw.

WITHDRAWING FROM THE COLLEGE
To officially withdraw from Linn State Technical College, a student must complete an Withdrawal Form and submit the form to the Academic Records Office or Office of Financial Aid to have the form completed. The date of withdrawal will be determined by the Office of Financial Aid.  Upon any consideration of withdrawal, the student is strongly encouraged to speak with the Financial Aid staff.  All students who receive any type of financial aid or veterans benefits must notify the Office of Financial Aid before withdrawing from the college to avoid incurring additional debt.

Failure to complete an Withdrawal Form and officially withdraw from classes may result in the student receiving an “F” grade for each class in which he/she is enrolled.  The student will be held responsible for the full cost of each class in which he/she is enrolled.  Failure to attend classes does not constitute a withdrawal from the college.

INCOMPLETE GRADES
An “I” (incomplete) grade can be recorded for a student who has completed at least 60 percent of required class work with a passing grade, but because of reasons acceptable to the instructor, has failed to complete all of the class work.  Incomplete grade requests should be initiated by the student, and the completed Request for Incomplete Grade form should be submitted to the Academic Records Office.

It is the student’s responsibility to complete the course work in order to receive a final grade and get the “I” grade removed from his or her transcript no later than six weeks after the last day of class.  Six weeks after the last day of class, it is the instructor’s responsibility to assign a final grade for the student based on course work completed prior to that date.

TRANSFER CREDITS
Students who have earned a passing grade of “C” or better from another institution of higher education in class comparable to those offered at Linn State Technical College may be granted advanced standing based on an evaluation of their transcript.  Approval should be sought through the Registrar. 

Students requesting transfer credit from an institution of higher education outside the United States must have their transcript evaluated by an approved agency.  Contact the Registrar for a list of approved international transcript evaluation agencies. 

In the event of transfer credit, it is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she does not enroll in Linn State Technical College classes that duplicate the transfer credit under review.  If the student is enrolled in a class that might transfer and the deadline has passed to add/drop classes, he/she is responsible for the cost of that class regardless of any credit that is transferred.  Before adding or dropping classes, the student should research if the schedule change will affect full-time enrollment status and financial aid eligibility.

To graduate from Linn State Technical College with an A.A.S. degree, a student is required to have earned a minimum of 32 credit hours in technical education from Linn State Technical College.  The 32 credit hours in technical education must meet the requirements of the degree being sought.  The 32 credit hours in technical education may include approved articulated credit with Linn State Technical College.

Accepted transfer credits are not included in the student’s Linn State Technical College grade point average calculation.

ARTICULATION OF SECONDARY/TECHNICAL COURSES
Various area secondary/technical schools and comprehensive high schools within the state have entered into articulation agreements with Linn State Technical College.  The primary goal of articulation is to expand educational opportunities for students with a seamless transition from secondary to higher education technical programs at Linn State Technical College.  Articulated credit for secondary technical classes will be applied to Linn State Technical College Associate of Applied Science degrees.  Articulation students must pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree.  Articulated credit is not applicable to one-year certificate programs.  Articulation credit must be used within the first year after high school graduation.

In the event of articulation credit, it is the student’s responsibility to make sure he/she does not enroll in Linn State Technical College classes that duplicate the articulated credit under review.  If the student is enrolled in a class that might articulate and the cut off date has passed to add/drop classes, he/she is responsible for the cost of that class, regardless of any credit that is articulated.  Before adding or dropping classes, it is the student’s responsibility to research if the schedule change will affect full-time enrollment status and financial aid eligibility.

Accepted articulation credits will not be figured into the student’s grade point average.

EQUIVALENCY EXAMINATIONS
Credit will be given to students who successfully complete course equivalency examinations.  Students must first apply to the Registrar for approval.  Equivalency examinations are given by a major department instructor.  Proficiency shall be determined by written and oral examinations given at the discretion of the instructor.  There may also be a performance test in order to provide a valid measure of the student’s competencies.  This procedure must be completed during the first three weeks of the semester.  Payment (tuition only) for the course is required prior to taking the course equivalency examination.

INDEPENDENT STUDY
In certain instances, independent study may be used to complete the requirements for regularly offered classes.  If a student wishes to take a class on an independent study basis, he/she must get approval through the Department Chair of his/her major program and the Registrar.  The class curriculum must follow the already established syllabus.  A student has one semester to complete class requirements.

SPECIAL PROBLEMS CLASS
In the case of a special problems class, the curriculum must be developed and pursued under the direction of a faculty member.  A student has one semester to complete class requirements.

AUDITING A CLASS
If a student wishes to attend a class without taking an examination or receiving credit for the class, the student may register on an audit basis.  Students who register on an audit basis will pay the regular tuition rate and must meet the class prerequisites or receive special permission from the instructor.  Students receiving financial aid or veterans benefits cannot count audited classes to establish full or part-time status.  Audit status must be established in writing prior to the beginning of the class.  Status from audit to grade and vice versa cannot change once the class has started.

LATE ENROLLMENT AND ADDITIONAL CLASSES
Students are permitted to enroll in or add a class through the first five class days of the semester.  However classes added after the first day of the semester may not be eligible for financial aid funding.  Please see the Office of Financial Aid for an eligibility determination before adding a class after the first day of the semester.

CLASS RE-TAKE POLICY
Any student who receives a grade of “F” in a required class will need to re-take the class.  When a student re-takes a class, both grades remain on the student’s transcript.  The higher grade obtained is used in calculating the overall GPA.  The re-take grade is entered on the transcript at the end of the semester in which the class was completed.  Third party sponsors typically do not pay for class re-takes.

GRADE CHANGES
A student has until six weeks after the last day of class to petition for the final grade in that class to be changed.  To appeal a final class grade, follow the student complaint and grievance procedure in the Student Handbook, which is located on www.linnstate.edu. 

COMPUTING GRADE POINT AVERAGE
A student’s academic standing is evaluated by using the grade point average. Quality points are assigned to letter grades using the following 4.000 system:

A.  Four quality points per credit hour attempted

B.  Three quality points per credit hour attempted

C.  Two quality points per credit hour attempted

D.  One quality point per credit hour attempted

F.  Zero quality points per credit hour attempted

The student’s grade point average (GPA) is obtained by dividing the total quality points by the credits earned. The grade symbols of P, S, U, WD, WP, WF, I, AR, AU, CR, NR and TR are not included in calculations of grade point average.

All GPA’s are calculated to three decimal points.  Determination of academic honors, academic standards, academic probation and suspension are based on the truncated GPA.  GPA’s are not rounded.

ACADEMIC HONORS
Full-time students (students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours) who earned a semester grade point average (GPA) of 3.500 or higher will be placed on that semester’s Dean’s List.  Students whose semester grade point average is 3.000 to 3.499 will be placed on that semester’s honor roll.  Students with high academic grades are eligible for membership in the Phi Theta Kappa, Alpha Phi Omicron Chapter at Linn State Technical College, a national scholastic honor society.

ACADEMIC STANDARDS
All full-time students (students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours) are expected to maintain a 2.000 or better cumulative grade point average (GPA) for graduation.  A cumulative GPA of 2.000 is also required in the core curriculum and program requirements.  Program standards that exceed this requirement will take precedence. 

ACADEMIC HONESTY
Academic dishonesty is an offense against the college.  A student who has committed an act of academic dishonesty has failed to meet a basic requirement of satisfactory academic performance.  Thus, academic dishonesty is not only a basis for disciplinary action but is also relevant to the evaluation of the student’s level of performance.  Academic honesty requires that students do not cheat, or knowingly assist another to do so.  Other unacceptable behavior includes plagiarism, which is the submitting of someone else’s work as one’s own, unauthorized access to examinations, and changing of grades.  LSTC faculty consider the submitting/performing of essentially the same single piece of work for credit in different classes to be dishonest unless all faculty members involved have pre-approved in writing that the specific piece of work is eligible for credit in multiple classes.

ACADEMIC PROBATION
Students receiving an overall semester GPA of below 2.000 shall be placed on academic probation for one semester.  Program standards that exceed this requirement will take precedence.  This is a warning to the student that his/her grades are substandard and continued substandard grades in the next semester will result in academic suspension.

ACADEMIC SUSPENSION
Students with an overall GPA below 2.000 for two (2) consecutive semesters shall be suspended from LSTC.  Students suspended from the college as a result of low grades shall not return to LSTC for the next semester during which the student is expected to be enrolled.  Program standards that exceed this requirement will take precedence.  Students returning from academic suspension must reapply to the college to begin taking classes again.  Students returning from suspension will be on academic probation during that first semester back.  If, at the end of that semester, the student earns less than a 2.000 semester GPA, he/she will again be suspended for another semester.

STANDARD OF STUDENT CONDUCT
Students enrolling at the college assume the obligation to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the policies of the college.  If a student fails to do so and engages in behavior disruptive to the educational process, the college will institute appropriate disciplinary action.

Specifically, students are expected to comply with federal, state, and county laws concerning activities prohibited generally and specifically on college property and at college-sponsored functions.  Among these illicit activities are civil disobedience, forgery, cheating, gambling, immoral conduct, libel, theft, use and sale of alcoholic beverages and narcotics.

In addition to demonstrating honesty and integrity, students are expected to comply with all policies, regulations and procedures of Linn State Technical College.

DISCIPLINARY PROBATION
A student may be placed on disciplinary probation for unsatisfactory conduct or excessive absenteeism.  Unsatisfactory conduct can include cheating and not meeting the standard of student conduct.  The Dean of Student Services or Counselor will determine the imposition of disciplinary probation, its duration and conditions for removal from that status.  Failure to comply with disciplinary probation will lead to disciplinary suspension.

DISCIPLINARY SUSPENSION
A student may be placed on disciplinary suspension for behaviors that violate the rules of the college; local, county, state or federal laws; or which bring ill repute to the college.  Violations relating to insubordination, harassment, drugs/alcohol, vandalism, threats, unsafe acts and uncivil behaviors may lead to direct suspensions without prior disciplinary probation having to be imposed.  Duration of suspension may vary from one day to one semester at the discretion of the Dean of Student Services.

COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS
The Dean of Student Services may assign community service hours as an additional sanction for disciplinary violations.  The hours assigned usually vary from 10 hours to 50 hours with time limits for completion from one week to one semester.  If not completed in the time designated, community service hours convert to fines of $10.00 per hour up to a maximum of $500.00.

DISMISSAL FROM COLLEGE
A student may be dismissed from Linn State Technical College for one or both of the following reasons:

1.  Unsatisfactory academic progress as outlined in the Academic Standards section of this catalog.  (See Student Handbook at www.linnstate.edu for details.)

2.  Inappropriate student conduct, which includes a lack of required attendance, as outlined in the Disciplinary Probation section of this catalog.  (See Student Handbook at www.linnstate.edu for details.)

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Policy.  Linn State Technical College strives to maintain a working and learning environment that is free from the effects of alcohol and illegal drugs.

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited while in a college vehicle, in the classroom, on the job while completing a program internship, as an employee of the college, on Linn State Technical College property (whether owned, leased and/or operated by the college) or at school sponsored activities.  The term “controlled substance” refers to any illegal substance, to the illegal use of alcohol, and/or to the illegal use of controlled prescription pharmaceutical products.

Linn State Technical College forbids the possession of any alcoholic beverage on campus or any property owned, leased and/or operated by the college, in compliance with the Missouri State law that forbids the presence of alcohol on or in public school facilities and property.  The Board of Regents approved policies are filed in the President’s Office.

Substance Abuse Violation Notice.  As a condition for admission to LSTC and continued enrollment every student shall:

a.  Abide by the terms of this substance abuse policy.

b.  Abide by the terms of all applicable state and federal regulations pertaining to drugs and alcohol while in a college vehicle, in the classroom, on the job while completing a program internship, as an employee of the college, on LSTC property (whether owned, leased and/or operated by the college) or at school sponsored activities.

c.  Sign a statement, as follows:  “I certify that, as a condition for admission to Linn State Technical College, I will not engage in unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of any controlled substance during the period of my enrollment at the college.”

Penalties for Substance Abuse Violations.  Violations of the LSTC substance abuse policy will result in appropriate disciplinary action (consistent with local, state, and federal law) according to established procedures.  Permanent suspension from school attendance, termination of employment, and/or referral for prosecution may be the consequence of infractions of this policy.  Loss of eligibility for financial aid may also result.

Violations of the many state and federal laws governing controlled substances carry varying penalties.  Under Missouri law, punishment for possession of controlled substances can range up to 15 years imprisonment, depending on the quantity and type of controlled substance.  Punishment for manufacture or distribution of controlled substances can range up to 30 years or life imprisonment, depending on the quantity and type of controlled substance.  These statutory ranges of punishment are increased for prior or persistent offenders.  Punishment for violations of federal drug laws is set by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which establish ranges of punishment after consideration of a variety of sentencing factors.  The Board of Regents approved policies are filed in the President’s Office.

Counseling.  Students who need assistance in locating professional services such as drug counseling and/or rehabilitation programs may request information from the Student Services Office of the college.  Such contacts will be handled with confidentiality.  However, volunteering to participate in treatment programs will not, of itself, prevent disciplinary action for violation of the substance abuse policy.  Community resources which are available for counseling and assistance with alcohol and/or substance abuse problems include:
 

Counselors in the Student Services Office will assist with referrals upon request.  Information about additional private counseling resources may also be accessed through the Student Services Office.

Tobacco Free Campus.  Smoking and use of smokeless tobacco is not permitted inside any building owned, leased, and/or operated by the college.


Presidential Order on Firearms
Until further notice, consent to carry concealed firearms into or onto property owned or controlled (including the airport) by Linn State Technical College other than in a vehicle as provided by law may only be done so with the written consent of the President of Linn State Technical College. 

Grievance Policy
Linn State Technical College personnel shall maintain records of formal written student complaints, which will be filed with the Dean of Student Services.  These records will include information about the disposition of the complaints, including those referred to external agencies for final resolution.  Information concerning the procedures for maintaining these records are available from the Student Services  Office.  See the Student Handbook at www.linnstate.edu for details on making complaints or filing grievances.

Non-Discrimination Procedure
It is the practice of the Linn State Technical College Student Services Office to supply every entering student with the Notice of Non-Discrimination and their rights under Title VI (1964), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.  Each student is given written notice that the Student Handbook is located at www.linnstate.edu and is encouraged to print a copy.  This information is also available in the Dean of Student Services Office.  Copies of signatures from students which indicate receipt of these notifications are on file in the Academic Records Office.

It is the practice of the Human Resources office to provide each new employee with a copy of the Linn State Technical College Board approved Rules and Regulations which contain the Notice of Non-Discrimination and their rights under Title VI (1964), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.  Employees also receive a copy and updates of the Employee Resource Book and Employee Handbook.  Updates to the Rules and Regulations are administered by the Secretary to the Board of Regents upon action taken by the Board.  The Resource Book and Employee Handbook are reviewed annually and updated as needed by the Human Resources department. 

Sexual Harassment
It is the policy of Linn State Technical College that no employee or student be harassed by an employee, supervisor, student, or instructor on the basis of gender and that no personnel or academic action be taken affecting an employee or student (either favorably or unfavorably) on the basis of conduct that is not related to work or classroom performance.  Such conduct may include sexual advances or raising a complaint concerning the alleged violation of this policy.  For additional information, students should refer to the Student Handbook at www.linnstate.edu.  The Board of Regents approved policies are filed in the President’s Office.

Academic Records
Linn State Technical College adheres to the guidelines set forth in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, Buckley Amendment and maintains policy in accordance with this act. A detailed statement pertaining to (1) records maintained, (2) access procedures, (3) directory information and (4) content challenge is published annually in the Linn State Technical College Student Handbook and Employee Handbook.  Additional information can be obtained from the Student Services Office at (573) 897-5193 or on the Linn State Technical College website, www.linnstate.edu.

Campus Crime Prevention and Awareness
In compliance with the Campus Security Act of 1990 and the Amendment of 1992 (Public Law 101-542), Linn State Technical College publishes and distributes statistics that list the number of criminal offenses and arrests reported on each of its campuses for the past three years.  These statistics and the policies and procedures for preventing and reporting crimes are provided in a Student Handbook, which is prepared bi-annually.  The Student Handbook is available on the Linn State Technical College website, www.linnstate.edu.  The Board of Regents approved policies are filed in the President’s Office.


STUDENT LIFE, ACTIVITIES, AND SERVICES
Student Services programs at Linn State Technical College are designed to provide support services to students in meeting their individual educational goals.  Services to students at LSTC include career planning, academic advisement, housing assistance, financial aid, library resources, academic support, and services for special populations.

The Office of Counseling Services works together with all faculty members in carrying out the counseling program at Linn State Technical College.  Academic, social, and vocational concerns will be primarily coordinated in the Counseling Office.  The counselors do not attempt to make decisions for students; rather, they seek to help students make responsible decisions for themselves.  Counseling services at LSTC assist students in making educational and personal decisions.  If additional counseling services are required, the college staff will refer the students to qualified counselors off-campus.

SERVICES FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS
The college is committed to providing equal opportunities for students of special populations in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.  Linn State Technical College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or handicap in admission/access to or treatment/employment in its programs and activities.  Any persons having inquiries concerning LSTC compliance with such regulations should contact the Dean of Student Services by phone at (573) 897-5000 or by mail at Linn State Technical College, One Technology Drive, Linn, MO  65051.

Students requesting accommodations should contact the Vocational Resource Educator.  The type of service made available is dependent upon documented expressed need.  The accommodations for students with special needs are coordinated through the Vocational Resource Educator (VRE).  If a student has a disability or impairment that prevents him/her from completing tests or other assignments in class, the student may request for tests or assignments to be completed in the Academic Resource Center with prior arrangements made with the instructor.  If a student finds that the academic program is not accessible, information should be reported to the Vocational Resource Educator or Department Chair.  As needs are reported, every effort is made to respond in a timely manner to make programs accessible.

LIBRARY

The Library is located on the main level of the Information Technology Center.  It is a state-of-the-art comprehensive academic library and serves as the informational and educational hub of the college.  The Library supports the mission of the college through its collection, services, specialized research and study areas.

The Library collection is maintained to support instructional programs of the college and to support lifelong learning of students, faculty, staff, and community patrons.  The Library provides print materials, AV materials, and a multitude of online databases.  Students will find resources that cover highly technical and specialized topics as well as fiction, nonfiction and recreational literature.  The Library also provides Internet access in the Online Public Access area.  The Library facility is designed to create an ideal environment for study and research, with designated spaces for individual and group study.  Library instruction classes are provided to enhance the search and retrieval of library resources. 

Linn State Technical College is a charter member of the Missouri Bibliographic Information User System, known as MOBIUS.  It is a statewide consortium that provides access to resources of all private and public academic libraries in Missouri.  MOBIUS (http://mobius.missouri.edu) and OCLC (Online Computer Library Center) Interlibrary Loan services extend access and delivery beyond the walls of the Linn State Technical College campus, thus allowing our students access to nearly unlimited resources.

Professional librarians are available in the library and can be reached by email (librarian@linnstate.edu) or by telephone (573-897-5215) for reference and research assistance.  Additional information can be found at www.linnstate.edu/library and the online access catalog at http://lance.missouri.edu.

ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTER
The mission of the Academic Resource Center is to provide academic support and resources which enhance instructional programs.  The Academic Resource Center is composed of a Math/Science Center, Writing Center, and the Learning Center.  Services of the Math/Science Center include individual and group tutoring for mathematics and science, exam reviews, and computerized tutorials.  Students may come to the Writing Center for individual assistance with any Linn State Technical College writing assignment and resume preparation.  Services also include computerized tutorials in reading, writing, and language arts.  The Learning Center includes individual and group study areas and computers equipped with current Microsoft software.  The Academic Skills Lab is housed in the Academic Resource Center and has computers available for group instruction.  The Academic Resource Center supports students with developmental math, writing, and reading needs.  In addition, accommodations for students with Individual Education Plans are also supported. 

COMPUTER AND INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Computer and Internet use are governed by LSTC Board of Regents' policy.  This policy provides for general ethical behavior and acceptable use of LSTC computers and Internet access.  Administrative procedures have been developed to assure that all students understand and adhere to board policy.  Therefore, all students are required to sign the "Acceptable Use Procedure" before access is granted to computers and the Internet.  Furthermore, students may expect further use guidelines when using the library, academic resource center, and/or departmental laboratories.

See the Student Handbook for the "Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Procedure”.

ON-CAMPUS HOUSING FACILITIES
The first residential cottages for Linn State Technical College opened in the Fall of 2000.  The Linn State Technical College housing community has a maximum occupancy of 144 residents.  Students are housed in nine cottages, which have eight rooms each.  The rooms are available as double occupancy or single occupancy units.  Single rooms are available at a premium cost, based upon availability.  Residents have access to a variety of meal plan options provided by the Linn State Technical College cafeteria.  Residents must purchase a meal plan.  Prices for rooms and meal plans can be obtained from the Resident Manager at (573) 897-5165.  For additional information please refer to the Student Handbook found on the Linn State Technical College website, www.linnstate.edu.

All students are expected to provide their local address to the college and will have the responsibility of informing the college of any change that is made in housing.

CAREER SERVICES
The ability of Linn State Technical College graduates to enter and hold related employment is one of the most important indicators of the college’s success.  Linn State Technical College’s “lifelong” career services assistance program was developed to assist graduates in obtaining employment in related occupations.  For details regarding these services, see the Student Handbook on Linn State Technical College website, www.linnstate.edu. The Career Services staff and college faculty have developed and maintained relationships with many of Missouri’s businesses, industries and governmental agencies.  Employer contacts are also available across the country.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS
The Student Activities Coordinator assists faculty and Student Government Association officers in maintaining an effective program of student activities.  The college offers a number of activities which take place outside the regular classroom and for which credit is not given.  Each student is urged to participate in extracurricular activities.  Student activities may include basketball, movie nights, dances, softball, volleyball, bowling, cultural programs, ski trips, pool parties, etc.  The Student Activities Coordinator always welcomes suggestions for new activities.

Organizations that are currently in existence are Student Government Association (SGA), VIP/Student Ambassador Program, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), College Yearbook Club, SkillsUSA, Horticulture/PAS Club, Electricity Club, Aviation Club, Drafting Club, Computer Club, TECH Team (Automotive Technology), Residential Government Association (RGA), Interfaith Group, and Electronics Technicians Association (ETA).  Each student organization is required to have a constitution, which states the aims and purposes of the group and how it contributes to campus life and student development.  Each organization is responsible for choosing its own officers and for scheduling its activities with the Student Activities Coordinator.  Any interested person or group of people who wish to create an organization can form clubs on campus.  See the Student Activities Coordinator for details.  All student clubs must have a Linn State Technical College–affiliated sponsor in order to draw upon student activity fees and use Linn State Technical College in their names.

STUDENT SERVICE SEMESTER
Linn State Technical College is concerned with providing students not only the skills but also the attitudes required to be employable and promotable.  An understanding of work ethics is central to success in the business and industrial environment.  Employment managers and personnel representatives seek job applicants with a demonstrated history of strong work ethic performance.  To demonstrate a favorable attitude, students may elect, on a volunteer basis, to work for the school or the community.  This project, which is referred to as a Student

Service Semester, may be undertaken during any semester.  The project must require at least 10 hours to complete.  Those students who would like a Dean’s Citation may contract for a minimum of 15 hours.  Those aspiring to earn a Presidential Citation should complete a minimum of 20 hours.  Students should see the Dean of Student Services, the Student Services Counselor or their Academic Advisor for ideas on how to be of service to Linn State Technical College and/or to the City of Linn or their own community.  Volunteer hours should be logged through the Student Activities Coordinator.

TRAFFIC
All vehicles must be registered with the college.  The speed limit on the campus is 15 mph.  Exercise extreme caution.  If speed limits are abused, driving privileges on campus may be revoked and a fine may be issued.  Pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing the campus drive.  All drivers should stop to let pedestrians cross the road.

PARKING
Student parking is restricted to the student parking lots.  Parking permits for students can be obtained from the receptionist.  Additional or replacement permits are available at the cost of $25.00 per permit.  Any vehicle parked in unauthorized areas or without displayed parking permits will be subject to the following:

1.      Minimum $25.00 fine for parking violation.

2.      Repeat offenders will be subject to the towing of the vehicle at the owner’s expense.

3.      Double fines may be assessed for failure to heed warnings.

Special arrangements for handicapped and temporary parking can be made with the Receptionist.  Payment for parking tickets is made at the cashier’s office.  Parking fines will be posted to the student’s account.

STUDENT HANDBOOK
The Student Services Office electronically publishes a Student Handbook bi-annually on the Linn State Technical College website, www.linnstate.edu. The handbook describes in detail student services guidelines and procedures, college regulations, student conduct policies, and the student discipline process.  The current student handbook is located on the Linn State Technical College website, www.linnstate.edu.  It is the responsibility of every student to read this document and follow the guidelines and procedures detailed within the handbook.  Students are encouraged to print a copy of the handbook from the website for their own use.