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Employee Handbook 2018 - 2019

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I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. FACULTY & STAFF DIRECTORY Employee contact list is emailed out through the office of the College President.

B. MISSION STATEMENT & PURPOSE, VISION, VALUES, & GOALS MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Northwest Tech, as an institution of higher learning, is to prepare individuals for gainful employment in technical and professional careers, productive personal lives, and lifelong learning. MISSION PURPOSE Northwest Tech will fulfill its mission by:

• Offering associate of applied science degrees, technical certificates and short-term educational opportunities upon completion of technical programs designed to meet student and employment needs.

• Providing educational opportunities that enhance technical experience, problem solving, communication, and human relations skills.

• Providing relevant learning experiences supported by qualified and experienced faculty and staff, progressive technology, and physical facilities designed to enhance the learning environment.

• Ensuring technical programs, curriculum, and teaching methodologies are continually updated through interaction with business and industry, advisory councils, specialized accreditation, certification agencies, and through the assessment process.

• Promoting diverse opportunities for leadership and personal growth through student organizations. • Maintaining a program of guidance to enhance the student’s decision-making abilities in both career and personal goals. • The college will develop articulation agreements with other colleges and universities to provide seamless transfer of credits.

VISION The vision of Northwest Kansas Technical College as a forward thinking, premier leader in career and technical education is to maximize learning through progressive technology and facilities, collaborations, and professional experiences that foster lifelong learning in a diverse global society. VALUES Northwest Tech affirms the following values and beliefs as we pursue our vision and achieve our mission.

• Commitment to Learning We believe that students can achieve their personal and professional potential through higher education. We assume responsibility for providing varied general education, technical, and training experiences that will cultivate lifelong learning. We are committed to a program of faculty development that factors growth and academic freedom to assure high-quality and relevant instruction and training.

• Commitment to Quality We believe that high-quality educational and technical programs, excellent student services, and well-qualified faculty and staff contribute to the successful achievement of our students’ educational and career goals.

• Commitment to Integrity We recognize the importance and value of our institution demonstrating honesty and fairness in all of our programs and services. We will strive to develop integrity and strong work ethics in our students by modeling ethical and professional behavior throughout the institution. We are committed to forging strong relations with our local community, regional businesses, and industries.

• Commitment to Service We are committed to “student centered” service by providing support to meet their individual differences and needs. We will strive to serve local and regional businesses and industry by providing well-educated students to meet employment needs. We are committed to involve students, faculty, staff, and administration in community service.

• Commitment to Diversity We recognize the value of different student learning styles and the benefit of utilizing a variety of teaching methodologies to enhance learning. We are committed to provide for student diversity through the general education curriculum, technical programs, and the use of a variety of teaching methods. We have an appreciation and encouragement of diverse student, faculty, and staff populations.

GOALS The overall objective of Northwest Tech is a commitment to carrying out the mission and purposes of the college through the following goals.

• Direct college efforts and initiatives to ensure enrollment growth. • Promote and enhance a student–centered campus. • Further develop business, industry, and community alliances. • Seek additional funding sources. • Maintain Higher Learning Commission Accreditation.

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C. ACCREDITATION Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. D. NORTHWEST TECH HIRING PROCEDURES/GUIDELINES PURPOSE To establish both screening and interview guidelines and overall hiring procedures. Northwest Kansas Technical College is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions shall be based upon qualifications, competence, and ability to perform essential job functions. Northwest Tech shall not discriminate against any employee or against any applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, age, disability or any other classification protected by law. VACANCIES/NEW POSITIONS When a vacancy occurs or a new additional position is proposed, the position supervisor and the College President will review and approve the essential duties and qualifications required for the position. Presidential approval is required to fill the vacant/new position. The Office of Human Resources is responsible for maintaining up-to-date job descriptions. When necessary there may be further review of the job description for accuracy, completeness, or revisions. TEMPORARY/SEASONAL POSITIONS Temporary and seasonal positions are required to be filled expeditiously. In these cases, the immediate supervisor will perform the screening and interview process and make the recommendation to the President for approval. SCREENING PROCESS Application/Resume Screening will be conducted by a Search Committee. When selecting individuals for Search Committee membership, consideration should be given to ensuring representation from appropriate employee groups. Applications and resumes will be forwarded to the committee by the Office of Human Resources. Each member of the committee will review and rate applications using the provided screening form. INTERVIEW PROCESS The Interview Committee will conduct interviews. When selecting individuals for the Interview Committee, consideration should be given to ensure representation from appropriate employee groups. The Interview Committee may be comprised of individuals who also served on the Screening Committee. The Interview Committee shall determine the number of applicants to be interviewed after reviewing the ratings by the Screening Committee. Interviews shall be conducted by asking a series of standard questions to each applicant interviewed. Questions will not be asked which will discriminate or lead to unlawful bias. REFERENCE CHECKS References must be checked prior to extending an offer of employment to any individual. SELECTION A recommendation will be made by the committee following the interview process, and all hires must be approved by the College President. PERSONNEL ACTION NOTICE Starting Salary/Wage for new employees should be set based on applicable wage determination procedures for the appropriate employee classification. HIRING DOCUMENTATION All paperwork related to a job search, including application materials, application screening and rating sheets, interview rating sheets, and reference check documents will be retained together, in the Office of Human Resources, for a period of one year from the date of hire. NEW EMPLOYEE PACKET AND CHECKLIST All forms in the new employee packet must be completed by the employee and returned to the Office of Human Resources. This includes forms such as the W-4 Form and the I-9 Form. E. STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION Northwest Kansas Technical College gives equal consideration to all applicants for admission, employment and participation in its programs and activities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, veteran status or Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Northwest Tech respects the legal rights of each person to work and learn in an environment that is free from unlawful sexual discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence. Concerns regarding disability or race, color, or national origin should be referred to Section 504 Coordinator/ADA Coordinator/Title VI Coordinator, Dean of Academic Advancement. All other concerns should be referred to the Title IX Coordinator/Age Act Coordinator, Dean of Student Advancement. Both Coordinators are located at the Northwest Kansas Technology College Administration Building, 1209 Harrison, Goodland, KS 67735. (785-890-3641)

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F. SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY Northwest Tech is committed to providing an environment free from sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct or communications constituting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment by and of Northwest Tech employees and students is prohibited. It shall be a violation of college policy to harass employees or students sexually or to permit the sexual harassment of an employee or student by any individual. Sexual harassment may take many forms, including, but not limited to: • Verbal harassment or abuse including sexually oriented communication, or • Subtle pressure, or • Request for sexual activity, or • Persistent attempts to change a professional relationship to a personal one, or • Request or Demand for sexual favors accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning an individual's employment or a student's

status, or • Request or demand for sexual favors accompanied by an implied or overt promise of preferential treatment with regard to an

individual's employment or a student's status, or • Sexual assault

G. EMPLOYEE/STUDENT DISCRIMINATION ACTION PROCEDURE The following policy is meant to be an internal procedure for prompt and equitable resolution of accusations alleging any discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, veteran status or Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Accusations of alleged sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, and age discrimination should be referred to the TITLE IX COORDINATOR/AGE ACT COORDINATOR, Dean of Student Advancement. Accusations of alleged discrimination, based on a disability or based on race, color, or national origin should be referred to SECTION 504 COORDINATOR/ADA COORDINATOR/TITLE VI COORDINATOR, Dean of Academic Advancement. Both Coordinators are located at the Northwest Kansas Technical College Administration Building, 1209 Harrison, Goodland, KS 67735. (785-890-3641)

1. Accusation(s) are encouraged to file promptly and must be in writing, containing the name and address of the person filing it, and a brief description of the alleged violation of the regulations. The accusation will be forwarded to the TITLE IX COORDINATOR/AGE ACT COORDINATOR or TITLE VI COORDINATOR/504 COORDINATOR/ADA COORDINATOR depending on the nature of the accusations. 2. An investigation will follow the filing of accusations. The investigation will be conducted by the appropriate Coordinator (depending on the nature of the accusation). These rules contemplate informal but thorough investigations, affording all interested persons and their representatives, if any, an opportunity to submit evidence relevant to a complaint. 3. The appropriate Coordinator, if any, will issue a written determination as to the validity of the accusation and a description of the recommended resolutions. A copy forwarded to the President the College and complaining not later than ten (10) college days after the accusation was filed. 4. Within 10 days the President will approve or disapprove the recommendations and inform the complainant. If unlawful harassment, sexual harassment, or discrimination is determined to have occurred, the College President will initiate corrective and remedial action to correct and eliminate any further discrimination. 5. All Coordinators will maintain records and files of Northwest Kansas Technical College relating to the accusation filed. The appropriate Coordinator will hold all cases in the strictest confidence. 6. The complainant may request a reconsideration of the case in instances where he or she is dissatisfied with the resolution. The request for reconsideration shall occur within 10 days from the date of the decision by the President. Procedures for reconsideration require the complainant to follow, starting with step two, the “Grievance Procedure of Students,” published in the College Catalog or the “Grievance Procedure of Employees”, published in the Administration, Faculty and Staff Handbook. 7. The right of a person to a prompt and equitable resolution of the filed accusation will not be impaired by the person’s pursuit of other remedies such as filing of a discrimination complaint with the responsible Federal Department or Agency. Using this procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies, but is encouraged as an appropriate approach to a solution. 8. These procedures will be constructed to protect the substantive rights of interested persons, meet appropriate due process standards, and assure that Northwest Kansas Technical College complies with State and Federal laws. 9. Retaliation against a person who files an accusation of discrimination, or persons who participate in related proceedings is prohibited. Any actions of retaliation should be reported to the appropriate Coordinator.

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H. POLICY FOR PROVIDING ACCOMMODATIONS, ADJUSTMENTS, OR AIDS TO STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES Northwest Kansas Technical College provides and coordinates services to students with disabilities in order to accommodate their disability and promote equal access to educational opportunities. Information regarding accommodations for students with disabilities is available from the Section 504 Coordinator/ADA Coordinator/Title VI Coordinator, Dean of Academic Advancement. Accommodations are provided on an individualized, as needed basis, after the student requests assistance. Students requesting assistance are encouraged to complete an intake interview with the 504 Coordinator. The Coordinator’s Office is located at the Northwest Kansas Technology College Administration Building, 1209 Harrison, Goodland, KS. (785-890-3641) It is the responsibility of the student requesting the accommodation to have current documentation from an appropriate diagnostician (e.g., physician, psychologist, or past educational organization) regarding the nature of his or her disability and the need for any requested academic adjustment or auxiliary aids. If a student does not request an accommodation, Northwest Tech is not obligated to provide one. Upon receiving a request for assistance, the Coordinator will respond by granting or denying the request of assistance after meeting with the student to discuss the request, the student’s history and experiences and reviewing the documentation provided by the student. The college may request a separate evaluation at the college’s expense.

Upon granting the request, the Section 504 Coordinator will: 1. Prepare a written document, signed by the Coordinator and student, which specifically list the request(s) and how the college

will provide the accommodations, adjustment, or aid to the student with the disability. 2. Forward a written notice of specific accommodations and adjustments to the faculty who teach the student. Any questions

regarding these instructions will be directed to the 504 Coordinator. Upon denial of the request, the Section 504 Coordinator will: - Prepare a written document explaining the reason(s) of the denied request and forwarding that recommendation to the College

President for a final decision by the President within 10 college days. - Meet with the student to inform him/her of the President’s decision and give a copy of the above-mentioned document to the

student. - Explain to the student that if they do not agree with the President’s decision, the option to appeal is available to them by

following the Student Discrimination Action Procedure beginning with Step 6.

I. CODE OF ETHICAL PRACTICES Northwest Tech continues to be committed to maintaining the highest level of business ethics and conducting business in an honest and forthright manner. The individual values and actions applied each day within your area of responsibilities determine how people view the college. Performance with integrity is expected at Northwest Tech. The Code of Ethical Practice applies to all employees, administrators, and members of the Area Board of Control. Responsibilities of everyone subject to the Code of Ethical Practice are: • Conduct all college business honestly and with the highest integrity • Comply with all laws and government regulations applicable to your position within the college • Learn and follow the college policies and procedures applicable to your position with the college • Remind others of their responsibilities when they appear to be in danger of violating the law, the Code, or other college policies. • Promptly report all violations of the law, the Code, and college policies, and truthfully cooperate in investigations of violations. • Do not retaliate against anyone for reporting or cooperating in investigations. • Avoid illegal, unethical, and other situations that might reflect unfavorably on you or the college. • Conduct yourself in a professional manner whenever you are identifiable as an employee of the college. • Lead by example, using your own conduct as a model for others. The college encourages you to speak up if you have questions or concerns about the Code or other college policies. You should seek advice from your supervisor or others if you are unsure about the right course of action. You may report violations orally or in writing and in most cases, you will not be required to identify yourself. However, in some cases it may be necessary for you to identify yourself for the college to resolve your concern. Violation reports should be made to the president of the college unless the violation involves the President of the college, and then, and only then, the report should be made to the Chairman of the Area Board of Control. No employee, administrator, member of the Area Board of Control, or other person subject to the Code will be permitted to retaliate or take adverse action against anyone for reporting a violation of the law, the Code, or other college policy. All reported violations of the Code will be investigated as promptly as reasonable possibly. While the college cannot guarantee complete confidentiality, we will investigate all reported violations as confidentially as permitted by the circumstances. If you report a violation or are involved in an investigation, you must not discuss the situation with anyone other

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than those authorized to investigate and those with a need to know. College employees, regardless of their position in the college, who violate the spirit or letter of the Code or other college policies are subject to discipline up to and including termination of employment. Certain violations may also result in criminal penalties and civil judgments.

J. STATEMENT OF FREEDOM OF INQUIRY AND EXPRESSION Northwest Tech serves its constituents by providing programs of learning that enable students to pursue their educational and professional goals. Free inquiry and expression are crucial to the pursuit of these objectives. Fulfillment of these functions requires the preservation of intellectual freedoms of teaching, expression, and debate. The right to search for truth, to support a position the searcher believes is the truth, and to disagree with others whose intellect reaches a different conclusion is the fiber of America's greatness. Only civil and criminal law or publicly acceptable means of communication shall limit discussion and expression of all views within the college. Students and student organizations shall be free to examine and to discuss all questions of interest to them, and to express opinions publicly and privately. They must always be free to support causes by orderly means, which do not disrupt the regular and essential operation of the college. At the same time, it should be made clear to the academic and the larger community that in their public expressions or demonstrations, students or student organizations speak only for themselves.

K. SUPPORT STAFF & OFFICE PERSONNEL Visitors will judge Northwest Tech by the appearance and conduct of the office personnel. An office cannot operate efficiently and smoothly without policies. It is necessary that all office personnel be at their desks and remain on duty during their designated time. Office staff and admission assistants are employed to do various office tasks including but not limited to:

• Maintain student records including transcripts and financial aid records. • Prepare and maintain records of correspondence requests. • Assist in producing institutional material. • Greet visitors. • Direct students and visitors to the appropriate Northwest Tech personnel. • Answer phones. • Maintain adequate financial records. • Receive money. • Maintain records and control of inventoried equipment in accordance with the Kansas Board of Regents plan for inventory

control. All office staff personnel shall be allowed one hour for lunch and break periods of ten minutes in mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Lunch hours and break periods shall be staggered in order that the office is staffed at all times. Office personnel should dress and conduct themselves in a businesslike manner. An attitude of friendliness and enthusiasm should be practiced daily. Northwest Tech administration office normal dress attire will be business casual. Business professional will be the attire on special days such as open house, parent’s day, tech expo, etc. when prospective students, parents, and community members are on campus

Business Professional Attire Female: Dresses, skirted suits, or slacks & shirt – no jeans

Male: Suit, dress shirt, and tie or sports coat, slacks – no jeans

Business Casual Attire Female: Dresses, suits, skirts, slacks, capri pants, khakis, blouses, sweaters, jackets,

vests, blazers, etc – no jeans or shorts

Male: Dress shirts, college logo polos or sweaters, slacks – no jeans

During the Summer Session (June 1 – August 14) faculty and staff will be allowed to have business casual dress. During the Fall and Spring Semester, Fridays will be designated as dress-down days for those that contribute a weekly $2.00 donation to the College Endowment Association. Expected attire on those days is:

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Female: Skirts, slacks, capri pants, and blouses or shirts/sweaters with college logo

Male: Slacks and shirt with college logo Monday through Thursday, dress attire during Fall and Spring Semester is to be business professional. Office personnel should have their work schedule organized so priority items can be accomplished effectively and efficiently. Office personnel should follow the same procedures as any other staff member in regard to absenteeism. Notify your supervisor before 7 a.m. MT stating the reason for being absent from work that day. Supervisor should email the Fiscal Control I of reason for absence. L. TIME CLOCK POLICY All nonexempt employees are required to use the time clock system to record their hours worked. Nonexempt employees are required to clock in and out for payroll and attendance purposes. Each employee has a code assigned to the clock. Employees are required to clock in and out using the designated device. If there is a problem with the time clock, employees should notify their supervisors, and the supervisor will direct Fiscal Control as to employee’s time. Employees should clock in no sooner than 10 minutes before or after the schedule hours and clock out no later than 10 minutes before or after the scheduled time. Nonexempt employees are required to clock in and out for lunch breaks (including on campus breaks) and anytime the employee leaves the college grounds in addition to at the beginning and end of the day. Employees may not clock another employee in or out. OVERTIME Nonexempt employees are only allowed to work overtime with prior written authorization from direct supervisor. Overtime includes clocking in early or late or working through the scheduled lunch period. Nonexempt employees who work overtime without prior authorization will be subject to disciplinary procedures. Any overtime will be considered for comp time. Comp time must be scheduled and approved by supervisor and taken the following 30 days in which the overtime has occurred. Any time spent working while not clocked in (a.k.a. “working off the clock”) is strictly prohibited. ENFORCEMENT Supervisors are free to use discretion in disciplinary actions when employees have various, albeit repeated offenses to the timekeeping policy or procedure. Situations include when employees may have clocked in, but are repeatedly absent from their workstations during work hours or have missed time clock entries in addition to working unscheduled overtime.

M. EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURES

• The employment procedures will be in conformity with the Equal Employment Opportunities Act.

• Notices of vacancies shall be announced by the President's office through public dissemination with news media and Northwest Tech web postings, unless a position can be internally filled.

• All applicants will contact the Office of the President of Northwest Tech for appropriate forms and application procedure information.

• An applicant's completed file will contain application form or letter of interest/resume, transcript, credentials, and other information.

• The President or designee will make at least two telephone calls for references in addition to regular reference information. Any time during the employment procedures that the President feels additional information is necessary other contacts will be made. The President may involve other members of the faculty or staff in the selection of employees for their respective departments.

• The President shall arrange for details of the contract. The Area Board of Control for ratification at its first meeting following the above procedures will consider contracts.

• It is hereby affirmed that Northwest Tech extends the rights to employment benefits without regard to race, sex, color, religion or national origin.

N. NEPOTISM POLICYIt is the policy of Northwest Tech to employ and retain the best qualified people available without bias. College personnel who are employed in the same instructional department, office, or administrative unit of the college with a relative or someone they have a familiar relationship with shall not participate in recommendations or decisions such matters as appointment, retention, dismissal, salary, promotion, leave of absence, evaluation, and sabbatical leave. No person shall be assigned to a department or unit under the chain of command of a relative. This policy also applies to romantic relationships. If a candidate for employment is related to a member

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK 2016-2017 REV.08-10-16

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of the Board as defined above, the President will make this fact known to the Board before any recommendation is made to fill a vacancy.

O. FACULTY EMPLOYEE POLICY Northwest Tech will employ only qualified faculty members who through formal education or through proven experience know what students must learn to earn the Northwest Tech degree or technical certificate. These faculty members will be primarily responsible for curriculum and oversight of instruction to include assessment of learning. Per Board policy, all faculty will be placed on a professional development plan upon employment. All technical education faculty members will possess minimally a high school diploma or equivalent and two years of work experience within the subject of instruction. Preference will be granted to applicants with an associate degree or higher.

P. GENERAL EDUCATION/ADJUNCT FACULTY All general education faculty members should hold a master’s degree or higher and should have completed substantial graduate coursework in the discipline of which they instruct.

Q. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS I. FLEXIBLE BENEFIT PROGRAM FOR EMPLOYEES The Area Board of Control has established this Flexible Benefit Plan for eligible employees in conformity with the rules and regulations set forth by the Internal Revenue Code with regard to a Cafeteria Section 125 Salary Reduction Plan. To be eligible, an employee must be at least 18 years of age. Any employee meeting the above requirements shall be eligible for purchase of flexible benefits immediately upon employment at the Northwest Tech. Various insurance benefits are provided through a salary reduction authorization for eligible employees. Said employees shall provide in writing (Election Form) what insurance coverage is desired, authorizing salary reduction therefore each month. Said election form indicating the desired insurance benefits to be purchased must be submitted thirty (30) days prior to the first day of the new college or plan year (September 1). A participant shall not be allowed to revoke his/her election of coverage after it has been commenced for the plan year, except when such change is necessitated because of a change in family status. An adjustment or change during the plan year shall be permissible if the change occurs for all participants in the plan (change in group benefits, new rates, etc.). See Director of Business Operations for detailed plan. Per Area Board of Control approval, employer paid benefits for single health insurance and $10,000 group term life are provided to employees unless excluded in the Section 125 Plan Document. Exclusions are: working less than 20 hours per week, hourly paid employees and village managers. Payment per month, toward single health insurance premium through the Northwest Tech individual group health plan only, as outlined on election form is provided. These employer paid benefits shall be used in conjunction with the salary reduction total health premium selected under the Cafeteria 125 plan as set forth on the election form provided, reducing the amount of such salary reduction accordingly. This is a "take it or leave it" option. Only those employees choosing a salary reduction health plan through the Northwest Tech group plan are eligible for the employer paid monthly benefit.

R. ABSENTEEISM Faculty members are to notify their immediate supervisor by 6:30 a.m. MT the day of your unexpected illness or other reason for being absent. Failure to follow this procedure could result in losing pay for that day as outlined in the instructor contract/agreement. The President or President Appointee must approve cancellation of any class in advance.

S. SICK/EMERGENCY/FUNERAL LEAVE & EXAMPLES OF EMERGENCY LEAVE I. FACULTY • SICK/EMERGENCY LEAVE Full-time faculty employees shall be granted one (1) day for each month of assignment per year for sick/emergency leave. Sick/emergency leave may be accumulated to a maximum of five years unused sick/emergency leave. The entire accumulative leave may be utilized for such employee's illness. Maternity leave is considered a part of the sick leave policy. In the event of medical complications, any further extended leave with pay beyond accumulative days will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Requests for additional leave with pay shall be submitted in writing to the President for approval by the Board. Emergency leave shall not exceed 25% of the accumulated sick/emergency leave. Regular part-time faculty will receive a prorate of full-time sick leave. Adjunct faculty will receive no sick leave benefit.

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II. NON-FACULTY • SICK/EMERGENCY LEAVE Hourly employees considered full-time (30 plus hours/week) other than faculty employees shall be granted eleven- (11) days sick leave with pay per annum, and will be allowed to accumulate unused sick leave to 55 days maximum. There is no pay for unused sick leave. Part-time or temporary employees shall receive no sick leave benefit. • FUNERAL LEAVE Office personnel will be allowed 5 days of funeral leave for immediate family members (mother, father, child, spouse, grandparents, and siblings). Sick leave will be used for all others. There will be no accumulation, use or lose policy, no pay for unused funeral leave. III. EXAMPLES OF EMERGENCY LEAVE Spouse, children, siblings, or parent illness; funerals for spouse, children, siblings, or parents; and other situations as may be presented to the President for consideration. Absences, which do not have the prior approval of the President, shall be considered unauthorized absences and shall result in a salary reduction. The Board reserves the right to review the sick leave limitations for employees who may encounter major illness or personal disaster on the merit of each individual situation. IV. FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE ACT The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides an entitlement of up to 12 weeks of job-protected, unpaid leave during any 12-month period to eligible, covered employees for the following reasons: 1) birth and care of an eligible employee’s child, or placement for adoption or foster care of a child with the employee; 2) care of an immediate family member (spouse, child, parent) who has a serious health condition; or 3) care of the employee’s own serious health condition. It also requires that employee’s group health benefits be maintained during the leave. The Employment Standards Administration’s Wage and Hour Division with the U.S. Department of Labor administer the FMLA. T. VACATION POLICY FOR NON-FACULTY & OTHER EMPLOYEES Office personnel and other employees (30 plus hours/week) who are employed in a 12-month position shall be allowed a paid vacation. Vacation will not exceed 10 days per contract/agreement year for classified employees with 0-5 years of service. Classified employees of 6-10 years of service will obtain 15 days a year and classified employees of 11 plus years will obtain 20 days per year of vacation. Salary shall be adjusted if used vacation time exceeds the pro-rated amount due employee during the contract/agreement period. Vacation earned must be utilized by June 30 or lost. Requests for vacation days are to be made ten days prior to the beginning of the requested vacation. There is no pay for unused vacation time.

U. PERSONAL LEAVE POLICY (FACULTY & STAFF) Personal leave shall be granted to qualifying faculty/staff and may not be taken until earned. Leave must be submitted on form acquired from the Vice President for Operations to immediate administrative supervisor for approval 5 days prior to the proposed leave. Such leave for faculty cannot be taken within 10 days of the start or end of the instructor’s program of study or within 10 days of the start or end of the instructor’s downtime. Leave may not be carried over from one year to the next year. 4-7 employment contract years - .5 day 8 or more employment contract years - 1 day

V. CATASTROPHIC LEAVE BANK POLICY I. GUIDELINES & PROCEDURES

• Catastrophic injury or illness is defined as a severe condition or combination of conditions affecting the mental or physical health, as certified by a licensed practitioner, of the employee or the employee’s immediate family which forces the employee to exhaust all sick and/or annual leave earned by the employee and to lose compensation.

• The catastrophic illness or injury must require the services of a licensed practitioner who is practicing within the scope of their license under the law.

• A contribution to the catastrophic leave pool is a prerequisite for applying to the pool.

• Employees who use leave from the pool are not required to pay back to the pool.

• Employees eligible for the leave pool must have been employed by the College beyond the point of his/her initial first year.

• Once leave has been donated to the pool bank, it cannot be restored to the employee.

• Employees may not designate a particular employee to receive their donated leave.

• The leave bank will be administered by an ad hoc committee appointed by the college president and this committee will determine the amount of leave granted but cannot normally exceed one‐third of the balance in the pool or 90 days, whichever is less. Applications beyond the above limits will be considered by the ad hoc committee and the president for extenuating circumstances only after the above limits are exhausted.

• All requests for leave pool time must be accompanied by a physician’s statement which states the beginning date of the

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condition, a description of the illness or injury, and the anticipated date the employee will be able to return to regular work.

• If leave time being requested is for a qualified family member, the physician’s statement must include the relationship, where the family member resides, a description of the illness or injury, and a statement concerning to what extent the family member is totally dependent on the employee on a continuing basis.

• A physician release form must be provided to the committee upon return to work. Any unused balance of pool leave granted to the employee will be returned to the pool and the estate of the deceased employee is not entitled to payment for unused pool leave.

II. DONATION OF LEAVE

• Employees carrying a balance of sick leave days as of July 1 each year may contribute not less than one (1) or more than five (5), of such days to the leave bank. Under no circumstances may the number of days contributed exceed the employee’s July 1 balance.

• In the event an employee has contributed to the leave bank and has exhausted all his or her accrued leave, such employee may request that leave be granted from the leave bank for a catastrophic injury or illness. Upon approval, the college shall credit such employee with such leave from the bank.

III. ELIGIBILITY FOR LEAVE

• Successful completion of one year of paid status.

• Donate a minimum of one day to the Catastrophic Leave Bank in the preceding twelve months.

• Exhausted all accrued sick leave.

W. TAX ANNUITY Eligible employees have the opportunity to participate in a college sponsored tax-sheltered annuity plan, with deductions as requested by that employee being made from such employee's monthly salary.

X. COLLEGE VEHICLE USE College vehicles are provided solely for the purpose of conducting college business. It is important for the following procedures to be followed:

• Always return vehicles with at least ¾ of a tank of fuel. • Check oil before starting. • At the end of the day, store vehicles in the auto technology shops or programs. At no time is a college vehicle to be parked at

an employee’s residence without the permission of the President. • Turn the invoices into Fiscal Control II to be paid. • Drivers must have in their possession a valid driver’s license. • Under no circumstances shall a vehicle be operated for personal use. • Drivers shall be responsible to defensively operate vehicles in a safe manner and within traffic laws. • No smoking in college vehicles.

I. TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT Travel reimbursement approved for in-state and out-of-state college business shall be as follows:

• Motel-Full reimbursement by college for "moderate rate" motel.

• Meals-In-state travel: (maximum of $30.00 per day). Out-of-state: (maximum of $35.00 per day). (not provided for college coursework for instructors seeking credit for professional development.)

• Travel-$0.50 per mile reimbursement for use of personal vehicle (Official map mileage). NOTE: Use of personal vehicle for college business MUST be approved by the President prior to travel when reimbursement is expected. College credit cards are not to be used for personal use at any time.

Y. EMPLOYEE REPAIR BILLS Any work being done by the college for faculty or staff must have prior approval from the President. College personnel will not be given more than forty-five days of delay for payment of bills owed the college without special Presidential approval. If the college employee is unable to pay the bill in full, then a payment payroll deduction may be set up through the business office. All balances must be paid in full by June 30th of the billing year.

Z. USE OF COLLEGE FACILITIES, EQUIPMENT, & SOFTWARE Over the years it has been a privilege for instructors to have access to the department(s) for which they are responsible as instructors, to utilize such facilities for personal projects (such as: making minor repairs on a vehicle, typing a letter, adjusting doors, etc., whatever activity might be involved with respect to the instructor's area of responsibility to the college). The Area Board of Control, State of Kansas, and the federal government for the purpose of instructing students have acquired the facilities and equipment contained within each of our departments. Employees are reminded that any such activity (outside of the

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regular instructional time) being performed by an instructor shall only be repair defined as minor or short term. Projects such as completing repair of a damaged vehicle, building a trailer, overhauling an engine, building cabinets, etc., (as it may apply to your department or area of responsibility) are inappropriate. Please use the following guidelines when accepting projects relative to your program:

• Such activities should be carried out by students in training and must have instructional value.

• Work for college personnel will not be allowed without approval by the college President.

• Space is at a minimum; do not use college for storage of personal items.

• Facilities are to be used for instructional value and not for personal gain. It is the instructors’ responsibility to disseminate appropriate projects.

• No college equipment will be allowed to leave the campus for personal use without the direct permission of the college President.

• Employees open themselves to undue criticism by students, fellow staff members, and the public by conducting major personal projects in college facilities during off hours.

• It shall, therefore, be understood by all personnel of Northwest Tech that minor (that being a project that can be accomplished in an evening) projects shall continue to be permitted by staff members in their particular departments. Projects, however, that would exceed the "minor project" definition shall be brought to the attention of the college President for approval prior to being commenced by a staff member on personal time.

A(1). TESTING FEES PAID TO INSTRUCTORS/STAFF OF NORTHWEST TECH Occasionally, outside agencies or persons not part of Northwest Tech request the use of Northwest Tech facilities and/or Northwest Tech personnel to administer a test. Costs associated with testing, such as materials, supplies, and use of facilities, should be paid directly to Northwest Tech from the agencies or person(s) requesting the test. If the testing is done outside of the staff member’s normal college day, the Northwest Tech staff member may receive payment for administering the test. This should be brought to the President’s attention for approval. Payments to staff members should be made directly to the staff member from the individual or agency. Staff members receiving payment from outside agencies or persons are personally responsible for all taxes and deductions such as FICA, State, and Federal income taxes. Instructors testing students from their own department shall not charge a test administration fee for test(s) that are part of their department’s curriculum.

A(2). TUITION WAIVER POLICY Northwest Tech offers college employees and their immediate family members the opportunity to take courses through a tuition waiver. The following criteria must be followed in order to be eligible for tuition waiver:

• Must be immediate family member of a Northwest Tech employee, which includes: spouse and dependent children (as defined by federal financial aid regulations).

• Tuition waiver applies only to courses offered by Northwest Tech that qualify for state reimbursement. • The student must pay all other expenses applicable to the course. • If an employee or immediate family member fails or withdraws after the drop period from a course, they will be responsible

to repay the tuition waiver for the course. • If an employee or immediate family member receives financial aid in the form of grants and/or scholarships the tuition waiver

will not apply to charges paid by these funds. • If an employee or immediate family member is required or chooses to repeat a course the tuition waiver will not apply.

A(3). POLICIES & PROCEDURES I. COLLEGE LOGO POLICY College Logos

Northwest Tech Logo The college logo is the standard mark used to identify the college in a wide variety of mediums. It provides a strong visual identity and represents who we are: an institution of higher learning that prepares individuals for gainful employment in technical and professional careers, productive personal lives, and lifelong learning.

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The "NT" Badge By using the initials NT (Northwest Tech), we imply our connection to the Northwest Kansas Technical College, but do not limit our impact to the boundaries of the state. This logo should be used to support the standard mark of the college, but not alone or without the standard mark present somewhere on the publication.

The Maverick The Maverick is primarily a mark for athletic products and publications, but it is also appropriate for many non-athletic applications. It should be used to distinguish our athletic teams and to promote Maverick spirit. Please use the Maverick carefully and do not use it in place of the standard logo. Our Colors The Northwest Tech colors are red (Pantone 186), true black, and true white. It is not acceptable to substitute and use different colors in any of our logos. CMYK value for: Red: C=0 M=100 Y=80 K=15 Black: C=0 M=0 Y=0 K=100 White: C=0 M=0 Y=0 K=0 For web applications, please use RGB values. The College Typeface We use typefaces from the Myriad Pro Family for most college publications. These typefaces should be used in association with the logo on external publications. Consistent use of these typefaces will establish a long lasting, easily recognizable, and memorable visual identity. These typefaces are recommended for most Northwest Tech communications. Other typefaces may be used on publications of another nature and/or those that will receive limited distribution. An event invitation, for example, may use a typeface appropriate to the event or season. If you do not have access to fonts from the Myriad Pro Family, please contact the Media Specialist at 890-1548. Using College Logos Consistent and correct use of the logo as outlined is important to ensure successful, clear communication and achieve maximum visual impact. In order to achieve that consistency, use of the logo must comply with these guidelines. All Northwest Tech publications should include our logo. Standard presentation for the logo uses Pantone 186 and Black on a white or light background. Other presentations include: - Pantone 186 and white on a dark background - Black on a light background or white on a dark background (for one-color publications) With the advent of personal computers and desktop publishing, many individuals and departments may be producing their own publications. In addition to following policies established in this booklet, persons preparing pieces for publication are encouraged to consult with the Media Specialist to ensure that standards have been met. Correct Usage

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It is essential to maintain the graphic standards set out in this manual. The logo cannot be cut apart or positioned in any way that will disturb the integrity of the design. Incorrect Usage If used improperly, the logo will lose its ability to be a powerful communication tool. - Please do not make any alterations to the logo. - Do not use the logo as a background. - Avoid printing at an angle. - Do not contort logo; be careful to maintain it’s original proportions. - Don't change any element of the logo. - Do not use parts of the logo or separate any element from the text. - Do not rearrange the elements of the logo. - Don't size the logo too big so that any part of the logo could be cropped out. - Don't print too small: Logo needs to be large enough to remain legible. It is essential to use the logo consistently to ensure that our message is being communicated clearly. If situations or questions come up that are not addressed here, please consult the Media Specialist. Every Northwest Tech publication distributed to an off-campus audience MUST BE reviewed by the Media Specialist prior to printing. Any concerns about the appropriate use of the logo should be directed to the Media Specialist. Please contact: Media Specialist/Web Admin: 890-1548 II. WINTER STORM POLICY Northwest Tech, as a post-secondary institution, will hold classes each scheduled day of the college year if at all possible. A decision will be made by the administration between the hours of 5:00 and 6:00 a.m. MT on the morning of a winter storm with regards to the status of classes being held, an automatic phone system will call every member on campus with any important information regarding school cancellations or delays. The weather must be extremely bad before our college will not be in session for those students who are able to attend. Students and staff should assume that classes will be held and plan to be in class if weather permits their making the journey from their home (be that from their Goodland residence or their permanent home). An announcement will be made over KLOE, KNAB, and KQLS Radio and KSN, KAKE, KWCH, and Denver’s Channel 9 TV at approximately 5:30 a.m. MT any morning in question relative to Northwest Tech being in session. Efforts will also be made to place cancellation on www.nwktc.edu. E-Day: Electronic day or “E-Day” is put into action during inclement weather, school closure, or any other time when class is postponed; the instructor may have class virtually, placing assignments electronically via computer or iPad. Those assignments will be counted as daily attendance. III. TOBACCO POLICY KSA 21-4009 to KSA 21-40-4011 of the State of Kansas prohibits persons from smoking/tobacco use in public places and public meetings. Northwest Tech, as required by said law, has developed the following institutional plan for its facilities on campus. Any tobacco usage or smoking by students, visitors, and employed personnel shall be regulated on all college property as directed by the previously mentioned statutes. It is hereby understood that there shall be no smoking (cigarettes, pipes or cigars) or chewing in any of the facilities on campus, including restrooms and hallways. No smoking will be permitted in college vehicles. Chewing/smoking in buildings on campus by students, staff, and the general public shall be prohibited at all times. Any tobacco use shall be prohibited in all area on campus--including instructor's offices, meeting rooms, classroom, and shop areas. Infractions of this smoking policy shall be dealt with in accordance with disobeying college policies or procedures. IV. DRUG & ALCOHOL FREE POLICY In accordance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, 34 CFR Part 85, Subpart F, as added by Section 22 of the Drug Free Schools and Committees Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 102, 226, 103 St. 1928), Northwest Tech, Goodland, Kansas, hereby publishes this policy for the purpose of maintaining a drug free workplace for employees and students of said college. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of any controlled substance and alcohol by employees or students of Northwest Tech on college property or as a part of any college activity are prohibited. No employee or student shall report to college at the start of any instructional period or college activity under the influence of illicit drugs or alcoholic beverages. For example, this includes the first class in the morning, periods after meals or breaks, field trips, intramural sports, etc. Controlled substances or illicit drugs are those specified in Schedules 1V Section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 USC 812)

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as further defined in the implementing regulation in 21 DFR 1308.11 1308.15 and include such substances as opiates and their derivatives; hallucinogenic; narcotics; coca and its derivatives; and depressants and stimulants not available over-the-counter or not prescribed by a physician. Northwest Tech has taken a proactive approach to inform the student body and personnel of the effects of alcohol and drugs. Some of the examples of how we are proactive:

1. Annually, pamphlets will be distributed to all college personnel and students, setting forth further, in writing, the ill effects to the human body resulting from the use of alcohol or drug substance.

2. A Student Assistance Committee will be active in counseling with and assisting individuals who are experiencing or have experienced substance abuse. Identified individuals will be referred to appropriate treatment.

V. FIREARM/WEAPON POLICY Possession of firearms, firing, displaying or threatening use of firearms, explosives or other weapons on the college premises for any purpose is unlawful. To the extent allowed by law and except as otherwise provided herein, the campus of Northwest Tech shall be weapons-free. Main entrances to the campus shall be posted in accordance with K.S.A. 2007 Supp. 75-7c10, 75-7c11, K.A.R. 16-11-7, K.S.A. 21-4218 and K.A.R. 1-49-11, and amendments thereto. Additional signs may be posted as appropriate. Law enforcement officials shall read nothing in this section to prohibit possession of weapons on campus in an official capacity. For the purpose of this policy, “weapons” means:

1. Any object or device which will, is designed to, or may be readily converted to expel bullet, shot, or shell by the action of an explosive or other propellant;

2. Any handgun, pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, or other firearm of any nature, including concealed weapons licensed pursuant to the Personal and Family Protection Act, and amendments thereto;

3. Any BB gun, pellet gun, air/C’02 gun, stun gun, or blow gun; 4. Any explosive, incendiary or poison gas (A) bomb, (B) mine, (C) grenade, (D) rocket having a propellant charge of more than

four ounces, or (E) missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than ¼ ounce; 5. Any incendiary or explosive material, liquid, solid, or mixture equipped with a fuse, wick or other detonating device; 6. Any tear gas bomb or smoke bomb; however, personal self-defense items containing mace or pepper spray shall not be

deemed to be a weapon for the purpose of this policy; 7. Any knife, commonly referred to as a switch-blade, which has a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a

button, spring or other device in the handle of the knife, or any knife having a blade that opens or falls or is ejected into position by the force of gravity or by an outward, downward, or centrifugal thrust or movement;

8. Any straight-blade knife or four inches or more such as a dagger, dirk, dangerous knife, or stiletto; except that an ordinary pocket knife or culinary knife used solely in kitchens and dining rooms in the preparation of meals, with a blade no more than four inches in length, shall not be construed to be a weapon for the purposes of this policy;

9. Any martial arts weapon such as nun chucks or throwing stars; or any longbow, crossbow and arrows or other projectile that could cause serious harm to any person.

A(4). TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USEAGE POLICY It is the intent of Northwest Kansas Technical College to provide a quality technological environment for the college community in which certain standards are observed. Use of college technology resources is a privilege not a right. Use of the technology resources is limited to purposes related to the college’s mission of education. Certain responsibilities accompany that privilege, and understanding them is important for all computer users. Use of technology resources is contingent upon compliance with college policies and standards and all governing federal, state, and local laws and regulations. All Northwest Kansas Technical College students, faculty, administrators, staff, and guest users, authorized to use the Northwest Kansas Technical College computing facilities and services, are responsible for reading, understanding, and complying with the policies as outlined in NT-IT-P-0001 TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USAGE POLICY.

A(5). GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE OF EMPLOYEES It is the intent of Northwest Tech to provide an effective mechanism for orderly, fair, and expeditious processing of employee grievances. For the purpose of this procedure, a grievance is a written explanation of dissatisfaction an employee may have with working conditions, employee relationship, employment problems, and college policy and procedures. In exercising the grievance, employees are assured of their right to do so without fear of restraint, coercion, duress, discrimination, or reprisal. The efficiency of Northwest Tech is determined to a great extent by the willingness of the employees to perform duties as outlined in job descriptions and the day-to-day instructions and requests by the administration of said college. Inherent in these endeavors are the expectations for employees to be on the job on time, to conduct and present themselves in a manner consistent with good grooming and personal hygiene, to respect the rights of others, and to make an effort at self-adjustment, which circumstances of their employment may require. At the same time, employees have every right to expect administration: to treat employees fairly, to be alert and receptive to ways to improve working conditions, to be available to discuss an employee complaint before it reaches the grievance stage, to make careful, accurate, and complete inquiry into the facts and circumstances as perceived by all parties involved, to act with reasonable speed on all matters within its authority, and to provide employees with assistance in filing a

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grievance. In this respect, it behooves the administration to work for an equitable solution to a complaint before it becomes a grievance. The following steps shall be taken consecutively in starting a grievance, and no step may be commenced unless the preceding step has been concluded. The time limits specified below are to insure prompt action and not as a defense against or for the grievance. Time limits may be extended by mutual consent of both parties within the respective step, and all time limits are exclusive of Saturday, Sunday, holidays, and official leave. No extension shall be greater than fifteen (15) working days. If the employee does not appeal from one step to the next in the time allotted, the appeal will be considered closed unless the employee can show unusual circumstances that prevented such employee from complying. Step I: A grievance should be submitted in writing to the President of Northwest Tech. The grievance must be dated and signed by the employee. The President is, within five (5) working days, to meet with the individual or individuals submitting the said grievance. The President shall record the substance of their discussion and within four (4) working days render a decision in writing to be signed and dated; a copy of the grievance submitted and the decision rendered by the President shall be maintained in the employee's file in order that it may become a part of the employee's permanent record. If the grievance has not been settled in this Step I, the employee may proceed to Step II. In cases where grievance is with the President, the employee has the option of notifying the President in writing of his/her desire to go directly to Step II. Step II: The employee may, within five (5) working days from the decision in Step I, appeal the decision in writing to the chairperson of one of the appropriate committees of the Area Advisory Board as follows: Building and Grounds Faculty/Staff Curriculum Public Relations Student Welfare The chairperson of said committee shall then arrange to hear the grievance considered by the committee. A decision shall be rendered in writing to the employee within five (5) working days following the hearing before the committee. If the grievance is not settled in Step II, the employee may proceed to Step III. Step III: Using the same procedure as outlined in Step I and Step II, the employee may appeal the decision of the grievance to the entire Area Board of Control of Northwest Tech. Such hearing shall take place at the next regularly scheduled meeting of said Area Board of Control. Employee may obtain legal counsel, if desired. The decision of the Area Board of Control shall be final. NOTHING CONTAINED IN THIS GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE SHALL BE CONSTRUED TO PROHIBIT AN EMPLOYEE FROM FILING A COMPLAINT DIRECTLY WITH THE STATE OF KANSAS. FOR THE NECESSARY PROCEDURE, THE EMPLOYEE SHOULD CONTACT THE PERSONNEL OFFICE, KANSAS BOARD OF REGENTS, TOPEKA.

A(6). RETIREMENT BENEFIT SUPPLEMENT I. RETIREMENT PAYMENT Professional faculty and administrative personnel retiring or leaving in good standing from Northwest Kansas Technical College (Northwest Tech) at age sixty (60) or thereafter or who qualify for Kansas Public Retirement without a reduction in benefits will be awarded a one-time retirement supplement based on the schedule below:

10 – 14 yrs of Northwest Tech service $500.00 15 – 19 yrs of Northwest Tech service $750.00 20 – 24 yrs of Northwest Tech service $1,000.00 25 – 29 yrs of Northwest Tech service $1,500.00 30 + yrs of Northwest Tech service $2,000.00

Payment will be paid into a Special Pay 403(b) Employer Paid Retirement Plan administered by American Fidelity Assurance Company. Retiree will have immediate access to money in the plan. II. RETIREMENT BENEFITS In addition to Section A, faculty and certified personnel of Northwest Tech who choose to retire may receive additional benefits under the terms and conditions set forth below. Eligibility: An employee is eligible for retirement benefits if said employee

A. Is currently a full-time employee. B. Has twenty (20) or more years of faculty or certified administrative educational experience with Northwest Tech.

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C. Has reached at least sixty (60) years of age or qualifies for Kansas Public Employees Retirement without a reduction in benefits.

Benefits: An employee qualified under Section B, No. 1 will receive the following benefits: Ten percent of the employee’s last annual contracted salary per full year until age sixty-five (65) or eligible for Medicare insurance.

Last annual contract does not include any adult education, supplemental pay or any other income other than contract base amount. Example: $40,000 x 10% = $4,000/12 Months = $333.33 (Amount to be paid per month until the age of 65 or eligible for Medicare insurance.) Payment: Employees retiring under this policy will be paid the amount due on a monthly basis. Payments will begin within thirty (30) days after the end of the employee’s final employment contract. Applications: An employee desiring to receive the benefits of this policy shall notify the President of Northwest Tech in writing by April 15. Termination of Benefits: Early retirement benefits shall automatically terminate at the time an employee reaches the age of 65 or is eligible for Medicare insurance. If death should occur to the recipient prior to the date of Medicare eligibility, the Area Board of Control will honor the said compensation to the beneficiary as designated under the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System to the end of the fiscal year in which the employee died. The Area Board of Control shall have the sole discretion to alter the form, procedures, or substance of the early retirement program in any manner at any time. In such case, the discontinuance or alteration shall not be applied retroactively to affect any retired employee receiving benefits from the program. III. RETIREMENT DEDUCTIONS Employees in a KPERS qualified position in accordance with Kansas Law as that law pertains to schools shall have deducted from earned salary 4% for payment to the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System and 6% hired after July 1, 2009. The Vice President for Operations is designated as the agent to handle all matters for the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System for employees of Northwest Tech.

A(7). MEDIA SERVICES Each of the programs has an area(s) for displaying/storing magazines, books, audio-visuals, computer-related resources, and the equipment needed to utilize each of these resources. The Library supports the instructional programs of study by providing/coordinating access to additional books, periodicals, serials, on-line databases, CD-ROMs, software, and audio-visual resources for each department on campus. Services are also provided for general education classes.

A(8). CUSTOMER PAYMENTS It is the responsibility of department faculty to insure that the department RO account is balanced. Faculty needs to insure accuracy of the billing and the collection of each project. Customers or students are not allowed to take their cars, farm equipment, appliances, etc., out of the college shop until payment is made on the repair bill in the office and the customer presents a paid receipt. DO NOT ALLOW repaired items to leave the college without being paid for in total. The key for repaired vehicle shall be turned in to the college Business Office with the repair order ticket. When projects are located off the college campus, special care shall be taken before accepting the work to insure payment will be received. If the offsite job is estimated to exceed $500, then prepayment shall be required. If a project is over $500, half of payment should be secured prior to beginning project. College personnel will not be given more than 45 days of delay for payment of bills owed the college without college President approval.

A(9). ENROLLMENT I. STUDENTS A student choosing to enroll in evening or on-line classes will not be considered officially enrolled until all tuition, fees, and books have been paid in full. Tuition vouchers, class vouchers and payment plans that have been approved by the appropriate administrative personnel are the only exceptions. II. FACULTY & STAFF Faculty, staff, and immediate family members between the age of 16 and 25 will be allowed to attend evening and on-line classes tuition free. They will be required to pay all fees and books associated with the class. They will not be considered enrolled until full payment is received.

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A(10). WITHDRAWS/DROPS Students who are removed from a class or program, and entered into another class or program are considered a “drop”. Students who are removed from a class or program, and not currently attending classes or a program at Northwest Tech are considered a “withdraw”. I. STUDENTS In order for a student to withdraw they must inform the Student Affairs Administrative Assistant, obtain, fill out, and return the signed official drop form. A student will not be considered dropped from a class until this is completed and returned to the appropriate office personnel. Refunds will be based on the date the student officially withdraws from the class. II. FACULTY & STAFF Should the faculty or staff member or immediate family member withdraw from the class after the first ten (10) calendar days, he or she will be required to pay the tuition fees from the class(es) to Northwest Tech. Should they withdraw from the class(es) within the first ten (10) calendar days, all fees will be refunded in full. See Tuition Waiver Policy.

A(11). REFUND POLICY, TUITION, & FEES A student withdrawing from a class during the first ten (10) calendar days of the course will be granted a 80% refund of tuition and fees except technology fees. There is no refund for technology fees. No refund is available to a student after these calendar days. All refunds will be paid directly to the student except Title IV funds; they will be paid according to the Title IV funds policies.

II. ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRS

A. AREA BOARD I. AREA BOARD ORGANIZATION Northwest Kansas Technical College, Goodland, Kansas, was incorporated on April 13, 1964, in Sherman County, State of Kansas. Its organizational structure, as outlined by the by-laws of Northwest Tech, provides that each unified school district that signs a participating agreement with said Northwest Tech shall have a representative on the Area Advisory Board. The Area Advisory Board shall then annually elect an Area Board of Control consisting of nine members comprised of the officers and committee chairpersons elected at such annual meeting as follows: II. AREA BOARD OF CONTROL

• Chairperson • Vice Chairperson • Secretary • Treasurer • Building & Grounds Committee, Chairperson • Curriculum Committee, Chairperson • Faculty/Staff Committee, Chairperson • Public Relations Committee, Chairperson • Student Welfare Committee, Chairperson

The chairpersons of the five committees and the four officers shall serve as a permanent committee on finance. The by-laws set forth the powers and duties of the Area Board of Control. It requires that the Board meet monthly at a time and date designated by said Area Board of Control. This is typically the fourth Saturday of each month at 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time in the conference room of the main administration building on the campus of Northwest Tech. It provides also that the chairperson may call special meetings with a one week written notice to all Area Board of Control members. Participating district agreements may be submitted to unified school districts on a three or five year basis. Such district is required to pay $150 per school year to Northwest Tech in order to be a participating district with the college and have a representative on the Area Advisory Board. III. AREA ADVISORY BOARD Members of the Area Advisory Board and the Area Board of Control are to receive no compensation for serving on said board or committees of Northwest Tech. However, mileage (actual map miles) shall be paid such members at the Northwest Tech approved rate per mile for attending official board meetings for the college. IV. BOARD VACANCIES Upon the resignation or death of an Area Advisory Board member or a member of the Area Board of Control of Northwest Tech, it shall be the responsibility of the unified school district to select another representative to fill such vacancy.

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V. SELECTION OF PRESIDENT OF COLLEGE The Area Board of Control of Northwest Tech shall appoint a President of the college for a term of no more than three (3) years. The President shall receive such compensation as fixed by said Board at the time of selection. The President may be reappointed at the regular meeting of the Area Board of Control in February each year. The President shall be in complete charge and control of Northwest Tech, subject to the order, rules, and regulations as set forth by said Area Board of Control. VI. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY In the event a vacancy occurs in the office of the President, the Area Board of Control shall promptly fill such vacancy. Such vacancy may be filled by appointment of an acting President or by appointment of a President of the college. VII. OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS The meetings of the Area Board of Control of Northwest Tech shall be open to the public. Those individuals in attendance who wish to speak will be recognized by the chairperson of the Area Board of Control and shall be given time to air those issues pertinent to the operation of the college. VIII. HANDLING OF COMPLAINTS BY BOARD MEMBERS Individuals or groups sometimes confront a single board member with issues, which should be handled by the President of the college. In those cases of apparent exception, it is suggested that the board member withhold commitment or opinion until the board member has had the benefit of hearing the issue discussed by the Board where all aspects of the problem may be aired. A board member cannot individually obligate the entire Board. The Board serves in its official capacity only at regularly or specially called meetings. In carrying out the policy for handling complaints, the Board will, therefore, observe the following procedure:

1. Neither the Board as a whole nor any member will entertain or consider communications or complaints from parents, students, or patrons until such communication or complaint has first been referred to the President of the college.

2. Only in those cases where the President cannot make satisfactory adjustment shall communications and complaints be referred to the Board.

3. After hearing evidence submitted by the President, the Board will, if it is deemed advisable, grant a hearing to the parties interested. Such hearing will be initiated during the regular monthly session of the Board.

4. All parties will be given advance notice of the hearing (the time, the meeting place, and all other pertinent information relative to the hearing) in order to afford due process to the affected parties.

IX. ADVISORY COMMITTEES (GENERAL) Area advisory board members are elected to represent the interest of the public in the management and operation of Northwest Tech. In order to carry out this task, it is essential that area advisory board members keep in touch with public opinion and at the same time present the college’s needs to the public. The establishment of advisory committees of local citizens contributes to this two-way flow of information. The Area Advisory Board of Northwest Tech shall be divided into five subcommittees as follows:

- Building and Grounds - Curriculum - Faculty/Staff - Public Relations - Student Welfare

The chairperson of each subcommittee has the prerogative to appoint additional individuals from industry, business, and labor to such committees to assist in making recommendations to the Area Board of Control for the purpose of maintaining this flow of information from business and industry in order that the Northwest Tech Area Board of Control may be informed relative to current conditions as may be relevant to the operation of the college. When deemed advisable, the Area Board of Control itself may appoint an advisory committee to assist with research projects, long-range studies, and the development of policies or educational goals. To this end, the following policies shall apply:

1. The composition of an advisory committee shall take into consideration such factors as are representative of the community background of members relating to the specific task delegated to the committee.

2. The Area Board of Control shall make appointment of members to the advisory committee. 3. The advisory committee shall be appointed to consider a specific task and shall be charged with presenting a written or oral

report on the area of its concern by a specified date. Upon submission of its report, the committee shall be discharged. 4. The sole function of each advisory committee shall be to make studies and present recommendations. No committee shall be

charged with the implementation, if any, of its report. Any action stemming from any report shall rest with the Area Board of Control.

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5. Such committees shall serve in advisory capacity only and without compensation. 6. One to three members of the Area Board of Control may serve on any advisory committee. 7. Ex-officio members will include the President of Northwest Tech and at least one member of the administrative staff.

X. INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM PLANNING Northwest Tech, through the efforts of the Area Board of Control, administration, and instructional staff maintains a constant procedure for planning curriculum, programs, and techniques for improving instruction in all offerings at said college. It is planned that enrollment increases will be an ongoing effort of the college. The current programs offered at Northwest Tech to individuals desiring skills and knowledge will be given continual evaluation to assure that said programs meet the social and economic conditions as well as the trends of the business world. As the needs of industry change, enrollment and job availability for graduating students from various programs will also change. Constant planning will be conducted to determine what updating of equipment, facilities, instructional experiences, and techniques are needed in the ever-expanding work world. Instructors, administrators, and Board members shall maintain a constant evaluation through attendance at professional meetings, workshops, in-service training, and by keeping themselves informed by reading current vocational education literature and magazines, viewing films, etc. The college will continually monitor its strategic plan. Programs will be evaluated not only for the purpose of extension of such present programs being offered at Northwest Tech, but also for the need for new and expanding programs. Such evaluation shall be carried out through program advisory committees, follow-up of graduates, study of employment trends, and the assessment of the various programs at Northwest Tech. The Area Board of Control is organized for the purpose of planning. The five organized committees—Curriculum, Faculty, Public Relations, Building and Grounds, and Student Welfare—all consider the various aspects needed in planning for the continual progress and advancement of the Northwest Tech.

B. DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES OF COLLEGE PERSONNEL I. PRESIDENT The President shall be the chief executive officer to the Area Board, and shall exercise general supervision over all college employees. They shall be directly responsible to said President. The President shall perform the duties of the college as prescribed by laws of the State of Kansas. The President is responsible for strong decisive, energetic leadership in meeting its commitment to student learning and success. In the President’s absence, the President’s duties will be assigned to the Dean of Academic Advancement.

• Interprets and supports Board policies and decisions to the public and staff.

• Provides constructive advice and guidance to the Board regarding possibilities for college improvement based on thorough study and analysis.

• Shall state convictions on matters before the Board.

• Expects and facilitates high standards of performance for all staff members.

• Seeks meaningful community involvement in the establishment, implementation, and evaluation of college goals, objectives and priorities.

• Develops and maintains a cooperative relationship with the news media.

• Maintains a professional posture with other public officials and community leaders.

• Will exert strong executive leadership.

• Will fulfill the Board’s goals and policies successfully.

• Promotes and implements management techniques which promote student enthusiasm, sound educational practices, and cost containment.

• Provides leadership for institutional planning, including development of vision and mission statements.

• Provides overall leadership for the college’s accreditation process. Ensures the ongoing maintenance and oversight of the accreditation process.

• Encourages and supports the value of staff development. • APPOINTMENTS/DEMOTIONS The President shall make recommendations for appointments, promotions, reductions, demotions, and discharges of all college employees to the Area Board. No vacancy will be filled without the President's recommendation. No person shall be denied employment on the grounds of race, sex, religion, color, or national origin. • EMERGENCY AUTHORITY

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The President shall perform such duties as the Area Board of Control may require, and in the absence of specific rules or advice of the Board, shall assume any authority or perform any duty, which any particular situation, unforeseen and suddenly arising, may demand—subject to later consideration of and action by the Area Board of Control. The President shall be responsible for the implementation of board policies. As an occasion arises between regular monthly Area Board of Control meetings, which do not have an express board policy relating thereto, the President shall exercise personal discretion in resolving that problem, then report the problem and the solution to the Area Board of Control at its next meeting. If the President of the college is not available for consultation in regard to any college problem of the magnitude to require a conference, then the Dean of Academic Advancement should be contacted for such purpose. If the President and the Dean of Academic Advancement are not available for consultation, then the Dean of Student Advancement shall be contacted for the consultation. Such person shall have the authority to make emergency decisions in the best interest of the college, the college personnel, and the student body. • BUDGET PLANNING The President shall be responsible for the preparation and submission of annual budget to the Area Board of Control. • LONG RANGE PLANNING The President shall be responsible for the long range planning of facilities, equipment, and curriculum for Northwest Tech. A college strategic plan is under constant development, monitoring, and consideration for the purpose of maintaining a strong and vibrant college. • ACCOUNTS, DEPOSITORIES, & INVESTMENTS Bankwest of Goodland is the official depository for Northwest Tech monies. The President of Northwest Kansas Technical College is given authorization by the Area Board of Control to invest any and all excess funds in all accounts of the college in Certificates of Deposit in amounts deemed feasible by said President during any college year in order to earn interest on such excess funds. All idle funds shall be invested in approved financial institution duly insured, with government securities at a 100% level. The Area Board’s standing finance committee will provide direction and oversight on investments. Such funds shall be invested only in Sherman County unless another bank or financial institution in a participating district county should offer interest above and beyond the going public fund rate, at which time the Area Board of Control shall make a final decision relative to the investment of funds outside of Sherman County. A special $3,000 petty cash checking account is authorized for use in paying monthly expenditures that may be incurred during the month between Board meetings, such as postage, collect freight, COD packages, and other incidental expenses. This account is authorized in addition to the $200 petty cash drawer also authorized by the Board. The President and Vice President for Operations are authorized to sign checks from this special petty cash checking account. Each department will have a student departmental club checking account in order to pay for various club activities. This account will be maintained through the Northwest Tech Business Office. THE FOLLOWING PERSONNEL ARE UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF THE COLLEGE PRESIDENT: II. DEAN OF ACADEMIC ADVANCEMENT The Dean of Academic Advancement is responsible for the supervision of all faculty and instructional programs, and student related services.

• Serves as a member of the College Administrative Team. • Reviews institutional research relative to instructional needs and requests additional research data as needed to make

recommendations for the improvement of the instructional programs. • Works cooperatively with all areas of the college to facilitate improved student performance and to ensure coordination of

activities such as catalog production. • Serves as an ex-officio member of all technical advisory committees. • Directs the implementation of the instructional programs and services including: supervision and evaluation of faculty and staff,

program development/review, policy and procedure development, and facility and equipment planning. • Promotes cooperative planning efforts among instructional and support services. • Provides administrative oversight for program review, curriculum development, staffing recommendation, coordinates and

develops plans, and improves instructional offerings to students. • Receives faculty complaints; conduct follow-up as appropriate following established processes and policy. • Supervises, trains, and evaluates academic staff assigned to instructional programs. • Establishes and maintains cooperative working relationships with colleges, universities, local school districts, and state, local,

and federal agencies. • Performs liaison with community agencies, school, special programs, and interest groups affecting instructional program.

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• Oversees in-service training for instructional academic and classified staff. • Provides orientation for instructors; assesses needs and resolves problems as they arise. • Adjudicates student appeals and grievances within areas of responsibility. • Oversees the following:

• Student housing • Intramural and athletic programs • All student organizations • Admissions • Student Day Care • Hazardous waste disposal • Fitness Center • Cafeteria • Library • Special services • Student financial aid/scholarships. • Bookstore • Career Services • Graduation

• Hears appeals by students as stipulated in the College Student Handbook. • Performs other duties as assigned.

III. VICE PRESIDENT FOR OPERATIONS Responsible for the correspondence, scheduling, reports, and required documentation for the President’s Office and serve as the Clerk of the Area Board of Control.

• Provides secretarial support for the President. • Serves as the Clerk of the Area Board of Control. Prepares/mails agendas, minutes, and other communications to board

members. • Completes state (KSPSD), federal (IPEDS), and accreditation (HLC) reports. • Prepares the annual college calendar. • Maintains Endowment books and records including payroll and payroll reporting. • Prepares and files annual state non-profit report and IRS 990 for Endowment. • Maintains the petty cash account. Authorized to sign petty cash checks. • Serves as the KPERS Designated Agent. • Benefits administrator for employee benefits (cafeteria 125 plan). • Files student accident reports with insurance company. • Assists new employees with completion of employment paperwork and files with appropriate agencies. • Prepares all employment contracts/agreements. • Prepares advertising announcements for employment opportunities. • Assists in scheduling interviews for position openings. • Serves as the EMPOWER Champion. Responsible for submitting concerns on the student software program (admissions,

financial aid, student records, billing, housing, and alumni modules) and helps to find resolutions. • Responsible for signing student account balance due checks from clearing account. • Assists in budget preparation. • Serves as a member of the Administrative Council and Strategic Planning Committee. • Prepares agendas and minutes for administrative council and office staff meetings. • Oversees Veteran Administration. • Other duties as assigned.

IV. VICE PRESIDENT FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

This position will provide front-line interface and support on all computers (250) on the technical college campus. This position will require a thorough knowledge and competency in computer software, hardware, and knowledge about networking.

• Willingness to evaluate new hardware and software and provide recommendations. • Ability to write basic documentation. • Capable of commands/utilities and applications in NT, Novell, Unix, and Windows. • Familiar with fundamental network concepts and protocols.

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• Understand networking concepts, principles of routing, and client/server programming. • Ability to design a consistent network-wide file system layout for local and wide area network. • Ability to cable and wire computer. • Possess skills in software, especially Office 2000, Exchange, Excel, Access, and Crystal Report Writer. • Ability to problem solve, diagnose, de-bug and fdisk. • Ability to edit files, find user directories, navigate through file systems and use i/o redirection, boot/shutdown, and add/remove

users accounts. • Ability to read technical manuals and provide solutions. • Ability to follow directions and perform routine tasks without direct supervision. • Accept trouble reports and performs and documents solutions. • Willingness to learn, read and problem solve. • Maintain college website

V. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT STAFF This position will provide front-line interface and support on all computers (250) on the technical college campus. This position will require a thorough knowledge and competency in computer software, hardware, and knowledge about networking.

• Willing to evaluate new hardware and software and provide recommendations. • Able to write basic documentation. • Capable of commands/utilities and applications in NT, Novell, Unix, and Windows. • Familiar with fundamental network concepts and protocols. • Understands networking concepts, principles of routing, and client/server programming. • Able to design a consistent network-wide file system layout for local and wide area network. • Able to cable and wire computer. • Possess skills in software, especially Office 2000, Exchange, Excel, Access, and Crystal Report Writer. • Able to problem solve, diagnose, de-bug and fdisk. • • Able to edit files, find user directories, navigate through file systems and use i/o redirection, boot/shutdown, and add/remove

users accounts. • Able to read technical manuals and provide solutions. • Able to follow directions and perform routine tasks without direct supervision. • Accept trouble reports and performs and documents solutions. • Willing to learn, read, and problem solve.

VI. MEDIA SPECIALIST/WEBMASTER

• Responsible for marketing of college, and development of promotional materials. • Responsible for branding and image of college through media contacts. • Responsible for internal and external publications inclusive of brochures, promotional literature. • Designs and orders all promotional items. • Manages marketing budget. • Responsible for advertising on television, radio, newspaper, any other advertising that may arise. • Designs and maintains the college website.

VII. DIRECTOR OF BUILDING & GROUNDS Oversees Maintenance Staff in completion of the job duties given to them. VIII. MAINTENANCE STAFF A college is judged many times by the neatness of the building and the friendliness and appearance of its maintenance staff. The maintenance staff is a very important part of the college organization. It is, therefore, important that each member of the maintenance staff work in close harmony with each other in seeing that all aspects of custodial duties are performed properly. There is no place for petty differences to exist when it concerns the operation of the college. It is our belief that it is the job of each custodian to perform a job, whatever or whenever it may be needed in the college. Maintenance staff should report to work at a time designated by the President. Time schedules will be worked out between the maintenance staff and the President of Northwest Tech. There shall be no overtime pay for maintenance staff unless prior approval is obtained from the President. There are many and varied duties for the maintenance staff to perform. A ten-minute break at mid- morning and mid-afternoon and one hour for lunch shall be allowed for each staff. If staff is ill and cannot report for work, the President is to be notified before 7:00 a.m. MT of reason for absence. • PLAN FOR PHYSICAL RESOURCES The custodial and maintenance staff at Northwest Tech is considered extremely important to the success, health, and safety of the

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college. All interior and exterior areas of the campus must be maintained so that facilities and grounds are kept in safe and operational condition. All local, state, and federal OSHA laws are adhered to in maintenance and that improvement projects. College work-study students assist the full-time maintenance and custodial staff. The plan for maintenance and improvement of the Northwest Tech campus is to assure that the maintenance staff follows specific duties of responsibility. The plan is as follows:

• ANNUALLY • Paint interior walls of facilities as needed • Complete maintenance check of all furnaces and air conditioning • Insure that fire extinguishers are serviced by professionals • Make sure all windows and doors are sealed and functioning properly • Check roofs and gutters for any needed repair • Clean gutters and down spouts (twice a year) • Prune all tree and shrubs as needed • Check lawn sprinkler system • Paint exterior of buildings as needed • Repair and seal parking lots as required • Insure State Boiler Inspector checks that boiler records are current • Shampoo carpets • Develop supplies list needed for yearly usage • Check tornado alarm system • Fertilize and spray weeds

• MONTHLY

• Check all fire extinguishers. • Change furnace/AC filters.

• WEEKLY

• Clean all windows as needed. • Sweep all entrances to buildings. • Mow, trim, and remove grass (Summer). • Apply fertilizer and water adequately for lawn and shrubs. • Check all power equipment for needed maintenance. • Check all walk-in doors and overhead doors for needed maintenance. • Water summertime flowers.

• DAILY

• Vacuum, dust and mop floors where needed. • Dispose of all trash. • Make sure all doors and windows are locked. • Service all bathrooms with supplies. • Replace all tubes and light bulbs in departments as needed. • Police campus (pick up trash). • Remove or use ice melt on ice and snow as needed. • Repair and report furniture damage. • Check boiler and forced air furnace for proper operation. • Clean all windows as needed.

The maintenance staff must be flexible at all times, as unique and unforeseen situations arise daily that require maintenance personnel assistance. Repair and maintenance request forms may be completed by college personnel and submitted to the maintenance staff as situations arise requiring maintenance personnel attention on buildings, classrooms, and/or equipment. IX. DIRECTOR OF FOOD SERVICES The director is responsible for overseeing the operation, including menu preparation, assigning duties to personnel, ordering food and other supplies, setting prices of food items, and maintaining a high quality food service that exercises excellent food presentation, good customer service, and a friendly environment. Duties are as Follows:

• Operate the cafeteria in a business-like manner by properly purchasing foods and supplies in order that best prices may be obtained.

• Hire part-time and full-time employees as required by the cafeteria (salaries of said employees to be approved by the

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President). • Run the cafeteria in conjunction with rules and regulations of the Kansas State Board of Hotels and Lodgings. • Obtain and retaining proper licenses for operating the Cafeteria. • Properly maintain and submit to administrative office for accounting purposes all time sheets and invoices for the cafeteria. • Submit inventory to office in December and June each year. • Any other implied duties or services assigned by President as may be required for the successful operation of the cafeteria

facility on Northwest Tech campus. X. ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF FOOD SERVICES The assistant director is responsible for assisting the director in overseeing the operation including menu preparation, assigning duties to personnel, ordering food and other supplies, setting prices of food items, and maintaining a high quality food service that exercises excellent food presentation, good customer service, and a friendly environment. Duties are as Follows:

• Operate the cafeteria in a business-like manner by properly purchasing foods and supplies in order that best prices may be obtained.

• Run the cafeteria in conjunction with rules and regulations of the Kansas State Board of Hotels and Lodgings. • Obtain and retaining proper licenses for operating the Cafeteria. • Properly maintain and submit to administrative office for accounting purposes all time sheets and invoices for the cafeteria. • Submit inventory to office in December and June each year. • Any other implied duties or services assigned by President as may be required for the successful operation of the cafeteria

facility on Northwest Tech campus. XI. FOOD SERVICES STAFF Food service personnel consist of cooks, dishwasher, and a cashier. One person is designated as the cafeteria manager/cook. The other cooks and dishwasher assist with preparation, serving, and cleanup of the kitchen area as assigned by the director.

C. INSURANCE AGENT (Faculty/President Council Reviewed: 1/8/07) (Area Board of Control Approval: 1/27/07) An insurance agent is named "Agent of Record" for Northwest Tech for a period of three (3) years with the understanding that all insurance will be reviewed and bids obtained from insurance agents within the community at the end of a three-year period.

D. EVALUATION OF ADMINISTRATION The Area Board of Control members shall annually evaluate the President through a written evaluation form completed by said members.

E. ADMINISTRATIVE CABINET This Cabinet is made up of key administrative personnel appointed by the President. The purpose of the Cabinet is to discuss current college issues and to make decisions. The Cabinet will generally meet at 8:15 a.m. the first and third Monday of each month.

III. ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

A. DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS I. DEAN OF ACADEMIC ADVANCEMENT (See page 38) THE FOLLOWING PERSONNEL ARE UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF THE DEAN OF ACADEMIC ADVANCEMENT: II. ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FOR OFFICE OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

• Greet visitors • Answer phones • Prepare and maintain records of correspondence request • Assist in producing instructional material • Correspond and maintain articulation agreements with secondary and post-secondary institutions. • Maintain general education Transfer Equivalencies to other institutions • Maintain and monitor faculty professional development plans • Update program course catalog • Assist in updating of class syllabus

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• Assist in updating competency profiles • Work with IT personnel to assure that web page information is up-to –date and accurate. • Collect data, and prepare reports required by college and state agencies. • Maintain office inventory • Other duties or assignments as assigned by President, Dean of Academic Advancement.

III. ASSISTANT VICE PRSIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS The Dean of Academic Advancement is responsible for the supervision of all faculty and instructional programs.

• Responsible for scheduling of classes and courses including day, evening and on-line classes at all Northwest Tech locations • Advertises for and secures instructors for evening and on-line classes at all locations • Responsible for obtaining adjunct instructors • Works closely with the Bookstore Manager to assist Adjunct faculty and students with printed materials • Assists adjunct faculty with the college’s Learning Management System and provide appropriate training for instructors. • Responsible for enrolling students in classes. • Provide academic advising to students. • Works closely with the Asst. VP for Outreach & Academic Support. • Assist with securing classes through concurrent/dual enrollment and SB 155 classes. • Responsible for all business and industry classes on campuses • Makes contacts with business and industry and provide continuing education classes • Responsible for ITV classes and scheduling rooms in the Murray Center • Is knowledgeable for the operation of the equipment installed in the Murray Center being used for ITV • Works closely with the marketing team to advertise classes for all Northwest Tech offerings, including location and scheduling

of such events • Works closely with the Dean of Academic Advancement to provide general education classes to all Northwest Tech students • Develops collaboration and articulation agreements with high schools and colleges • Acts as a liaison with USD’s for concurrent enrollment • Maintains general education Transfer Equivalencies to other institutions • Works closely with the Dean of Academic Advancement and the admissions staff to aid in admissions where possible (campus

tours, Freshman Orientation, high school visits, career fairs, and other events as required) • Conducts faculty evaluations • Maintains grant writer responsibilities. • Leads Higher Learning Commission accreditation. • Assist with Program accreditation. • Oversees instructors professional development plan. • Develops and conducts faculty in-service trainings & faculty meetings • Responsible for other tasks and duties as may be assigned by the President or Dean of Academic Advancement for Northwest

Tech. • Conducts new instructor training

IV. DIVISION CHAIR General Description: Individuals serving in this capacity will be facilitators of positive communication between Administration and faculty while overseeing the respective division in which they represent. Functional Responsibilities include:

• Organize and conduct division meetings on the fourth Monday of each month. • Standing Agenda is to include:

o Curriculum and Assessment Committee Report o Faculty/President Council Report o Retention Committee Report o Admission Committee Report o Others

• Attendance at Faculty/President meeting that is held on the third Monday of each month. • Submit Division Agenda and Minutes to Assistant VP of Academic Affairs. • Work with Assessment Coordinator in to insure division programs assessment plans are up-to-date and assist programs with

the assessment plans. • Receive and review program competencies changes and submit to Dean of Academic Advancement. • Review all divisions Syllabus.

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• As per board policy, address and try to resolve student complaints concerning instruction and curriculum issues within respective division as directed by Dean of Academic Advancement.

• Conduct peer review/instructor evaluations. • Assist in advising of students.

V. FACULTY All professional faculty at Northwest Tech shall be knowledgeable of the policies and regulations of the college. It shall be the duty of each instructor to be knowledgeable of the rules, policies, and regulations of the Area Board of Control as stated in the Employee Handbook, College Catalog, and Department Handbook. Instructors shall conduct orientation sessions with new students on the college and departmental policies and procedures. Instructors shall be at college thirty minutes before their first class each morning. We ask that you do not leave, except for an emergency, until thirty minutes after classes in the afternoon unless approved by the President or the Dean of Academic Advancement. Should you, for any reason, be unable to attend classes, please call the Dean of Academic Advancement by 6:30 a.m. All instructors are to dress in an appropriate manner and be easily recognized from the student body. NO t-shirts, jeans or shorts are to be worn except on approved days. Appropriate dress for men is professional dress or business casual, which may include: shirt and tie, college logo shirt, and slacks. Appropriate dress for women is professional dress or business casual, which may include: dress, slacks, skirt, and blouse/college logo shirt. On Fridays, during the Fall and Spring Semesters, faculty is encouraged to participate in dress-down days. A contribution of $2.00 per Friday will be donated to the College Endowment Association.

• Instructors shall maintain a professional attitude, professional language, and conduct relative to enrolled students as well as co-workers.

• Devote the time exclusively to college duties during college hours.

• Develop and implement class syllabus.

• Complete plans and reports shall be completed prior to or following the classroom and shop schedule each day.

• Implement the Area Board of Control authorization that any instructors impose a short-term suspension not exceeding three college days.

• Properly maintain the equipment, supplies, furniture, and other items that are under the ownership of the Area Board of Control for Northwest Tech. Annually each department will carry out an inventory by instructor(s).

• Understand that property of Northwest Tech shall not be loaned out for personal use under any circumstances without the authorization of the President.

• Observe all college regulations, seek professional growth, and participate in curriculum study and improvement.

• Instructors are encouraged to join professional, trade organizations, and other affiliated organizations.

• Participate and contribute to the community life in Goodland. They should develop normal interest outside their professional duties at Northwest Tech.

• Instructors shall at all times make available to enrolled students, to the best of their ability, instructional training that will best prepare the enrolled student for the world of work in their chosen occupation.

• Assist and grade students on class and lab activities and also will be directly responsible for the oversight of student. The instructor must continuously inspect all student lab activities, and the instructor, prior to any projects released to the customer, will perform a final check-off sheet. The development and use of such check-off sheet is the responsibility of the instructor.

• Turn records of students’ grades and attendance over to the appropriate office personnel in a timely manner as students complete or withdraw from their program.

• Obtain and maintain proper professional development plans to maintain employment with the college.

• Insure vehicle maintenance and wash department vehicles weekly

• Maintain up to date grading so that students are aware of grades in courses.

• Complete an annual program review, and comprehensive program review (when applicable).

• Maintain a program assessment plan and work with Assessment Coordinator to insure program improvement.

• Work with the Bookstore Manager to insure that required textbooks are correct edition and required tools/supplies are accurate.

VI. DEVELOPMENTAL STAFF PERSONNEL Under the general supervision of the college counselor, the Developmental Instructors work with all students’ academic developmental needs.

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• Collect data and prepares reports required by the college, federal, and state agencies. • Maintain confidential student and referral records. • Develop an instructional program to assist students with math, reading, and writing. Such students are to be determined via

COMPASS testing. • Utilize equipment and resources available in the Resource Center and develop further the outline for instructing basic remedial

reading, math, and writing for students who have been determined to need such assistance. • Expand and improve upon materials available in the Resource Center. • Assist faculty with developing classroom instruction techniques. • Assist faculty with innovative teaching strategies to improve student learning.

VII. ASSESSMENT COORDINATOR

• The Assessment Coordinator will assist faculty and technical programs in developing and successfully implementing assessment plans and facilitates the use of assessment findings for program and classroom improvement.

• The Assessment Coordinator will serve as the primary educational resource for topics of assessment and all related assessment techniques, models, etc.

• Monitor the continued development and implementation of the technical programs assessment plans and data collection efforts.

• Assist in the implementation of the program review process • Annually conduct the Student Satisfaction Survey • Annually conduct the Institutional Effectiveness Survey • Collect, analyze and report learning outcomes and survey data related to institutional assessment activities. This information

will be used for the planning and evaluation of program development, implementation, assessment, and evaluation as well as accountability and accreditation purposes.

• Prepare reports and recommendations for consideration for the faculty, administration, and Board. • Work with and provide support to the Curriculum and Assessment Committee

VIII. GRANT WRITER This position is to research and identify viable grant opportunities to improve the college as well as to prepare and submit grant applications, letters of inquiry, and formal proposals according to the grant guidelines. This position is to oversee implementation of grant and complete any required follow-up reporting.

• Possess an intimate awareness of the college goals and priorities. • Write and seek a minimum of six grants within a twelve-month time frame. • Serve as the primary college contact in seeking and acquiring donations of equipment and other gifts. • Complete extensive research of nonprofit foundations, corporate sponsors, government programs, and individual donors to

collect data and identify viable funding opportunities via online website listings, databases, clearinghouses, and directories (online and printed publications).

• Identify grant providers whose funding missions match college-funding needs. • Complete all stages of grant proposals development: confirmation of college project/program objectives; contact with the grant

provider for clarification of grant guidelines; develop letters of inquiry, online applications and formal proposals with the appropriate organizations.

• Proofread and edit text for correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and concise and easy to understand language which appropriately communicate in a positive and honest manner, planning, research, and strategic vision in regard to its funding college request.

• Submit the grant proposal to the grant provider and properly maintain follow-up contact with the grant provider regarding the status, results, and potential feedback.

• Maintain the college’s databases of grant proposal text and grant prospects. • Demonstrate flexibility in approaching college grant seeking as appropriate for any worthy and reputable organization

regardless of its stage of growth and development. • Develop KBOR grant applications.

IX. LIBRARIAN The Librarian performs the following duties:

• Responsible for evaluation and acquisition of the library’s collection including print, non-print, and electronic resources. • Assists staff and students in locating and obtaining materials. • Responsible for the acquisition of materials including accepting and evaluating gifts, working with publisher representatives,

receiving sales calls, and working with vendors. • Acts as liaison with faculty regarding materials acquisition and user needs to enhance and support campus curriculum. • Responsible for the utilization of the automated library system and online academic system including entering data, searching

databases, editing records, verifying information, and blocking user records for delinquent materials. • Develop controls to measure the library’s progress toward achieving goals and prepare plans for solving problems. • Review systematically the programs, collections, and services of the library, and formulates specific recommendations for

additions, deletions, or revisions as warranted. • Maintain custody of all property assigned for use by the library and ensures that property so assigned is properly located,

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secured, utilized, and maintained. • Communicate and interpret library policies and procedures to faculty, staff, and students. • Maintain an effective information system for students, faculty, and staff, including circulation of materials, reference,

bibliographic instruction, and interlibrary loan. • Makes sure the proper management of library operations, library facilities, and auxiliary personnel (including student

employees). • Know and follow all policies and procedures. • Accept and carry out other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned. • Catalog print and non-print materials using professional skills. • Keep current with new research databases and techniques, library technology programs, and internet applications as available

in the library. X. STUDENT RECORDS PERSONNEL

• Enrollment o Enroll students into all classes. o Complete Certifications of all classes. o Post mid-term and final grades on students’ final records o Withdraw students as needed.

• Maintain program Summaries and Profiles for all programs and issue to instructors at the beginning of each term. • Maintain KSPSD Database • Complete KHEER Report • Order diplomas and package graduate students • Compile Student Profile Report • Complete Retention Report • Assist Bookstore with Orientation • Assist others with required reports

XI. HAZARDOUS WASTE CONTROL PERSONNEL

• Determine hazardous waste items within college • Oversee hazardous waste disposal for college programs • Determine codes needed, work with MSDS and determine waste containers to be used • Perform internal inspections. • Maintain Waste Manifests forms & tracking. • Conduct and/or assist the college with incident investigation of environmental, health, safety and operational incidents and

provide recommendations and follow-up to ensure findings are adequately addressed. • Act as a technical resource to assist the college in complying with Federal, State, local and corporate guidelines/regulations. • Provide expertise to potential environmental, health and safety exposures and provides solutions to correct hazards.

XII. SUBSTITUTE FACULTY Substitute teachers shall be paid $100.00 per day. XIII. ADJUNCT APPROVAL PROCESS The following three categories describe qualifications for adjunct/concurrent instructors at Northwest Kansas Technical College. An instructor must meet all criteria for any level of approval. First Level Approval • Master’s Degree and 18 hours in the Discipline Second Level Approval • Bachelor’s Degree in the Discipline • Master’s Degree in any area (i.e. education, technology, administration, business administration, curriculum and instruction, etc.) • Three years of successful high school or college teaching experience in the subject area Third Level Approval • Bachelor’s Degree • Currently teaching in high school or college • 24 credit hours in subject area • Three years of successful high school or college teaching experience in the subject area • Recommendation from building principal or other college administrator • Annual student and administrative evaluations • Peer mentored by an instructor with first or second level approval

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All levels of Northwest Tech’s adjunct approval are in compliance with the Higher Learning Commission and Kansas Board of Regent’s requirements for instructors. It is the expectation of Northwest Tech, however, that third level approvals be used on an as needed basis. Further, it will be the expectation that the Dean of Academic Advancement conduct annual evaluations, facilitate annual student evaluations, and coordinate peer mentorships as described. INSTRUCTORS REQUIREMENTS: • Maintain a professional attitude, language, appearance, and conduct relative to enrolled students and co-workers • Be knowledgeable of the policies and regulations of Northwest Tech and observe all college regulations • Find an appropriate text for the class • Develop and implement a syllabus for the class • At all times make available to enrolled students instruction that will best prepare the student for success. • Assess and grade students on class and lab activities • As students complete or withdraw from their classes, turn students’ record of grades and attendance into the appropriate office

personnel in a timely manner. CONTRACTS & PAYMENTS: Instructors will be issued a contract 5 days before classes begin, stating the current number of enrolled students. This is a commitment to instruct the class with the current enrollment. The instructor has the ability to accept or decline the contract for that class. The instructor will be paid based on the number of students enrolled on the seventh (7th) day of class. A contract for payment will be issued after the seventh (7th) day. PAY SCHEDULE FOR ADJUNCT INSTRUCTION: 1 Credit Hour Class 1 Student: 70.00 2 Students: 140.00 3 Students: 210.00 4 Students: 280.00 5 Students: 355.00 6 Students: 425.00 7-14 Students: 500.00 Bonus 15-19 Students: 800.00 20 Students: 1,000.00 2 Credit Hour Class 1 Student: 140.00 2 Students: 280.00 3 Students: 420.00 4 Students: 560.00 5 Students: 700.00 6 Students: 840.00 7-14 Students: 1,000.00 Bonus 15-19 Students: 1,300.00 20 Students: 1,500.00 3 Credit Hour Class 1 Student: 210.00 2 Students: 420.00 3 Students: 630.00 4 Students: 850.00 5 Students: 1,065.00 6 Students: 1,275.00 7-14 Students: 1,500.00

Bonus 15-19 Students: 1,800.00 20 Students: 2,000.00 4 Credit Hour Class 1 Student: 280.00 2 Students: 560.00 3 Students: 840.00 4 Students: 1120.00 5 Students: 1,400.00 6 Students: 1,680.00 7-14 Students: 2,000.00 Bonus 15-19 Students: 2,300.00 20 Students: 2,500.00 5 Credit Hour Class 1 Student: 350.00 2 Students: 700.00 3 Students: 1,050.00 4 Students: 1,400.00 5 Students: 1,750.00 6 Students: 2,100.00 7-14 Students: 2,450.00 Bonus 15-19 Students: 2,750.00 20 Students: 2,950.00 NOTE: The Bonus represents the total amount paid for that class. 15-19 students is a $300.00 a bonus 20+ students is a $500.00 bonus

XIV. ADULT EDUCATION

A continuing adult education offering of technical education, as demanded by former students and the adult public, will be offered to individuals in the area who desire updating or upgrading of skills and knowledge in specific occupational areas.

B. NEW INSTRUCTORS It shall be the policy of Northwest Tech, Goodland, Kansas, to assist new instructors in meeting the teaching requirements of Northwest Tech Board of Control with expenses as follows:

EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK 2017-2018 REV. 01-11-18

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The college will pay tuition for instructors attending a "New Teacher Workshop". If another institution other than Northwest Tech offers the workshop, the faculty member will be provided with a college vehicle, gas card, and motel expenses. Reimbursement, per college policy, will be made to the instructor for room (student housing) and board upon completion of the expense travel form. I. ORIENTATION OBJECTIVES

• To inform new instructors about the various procedures, purposes and objectives of Northwest Tech.

• To inform new instructors of their responsibilities to both the students and Northwest Tech.

• To assist the new instructors in making a smooth transition from technical expert to competent teacher.

• To inform new instructors about the history of Northwest Tech and the vision of Northwest Tech. During this New Teacher Orientation session, the facilitators respectfully request that the new instructors ask questions of the facilitators in order to become as well informed as possible. II. ORIENTATION AGENDA ITEMS

1. Northwest Tech Mission and Goals 2. Administration/Faculty Handbook 3. Student Catalog 4. Departmental Handbook 5. College Calendar 6. Expectations/Goals – Instructors/Students 7. Competency Profiles 8. Institutional Budget and Funding 9. Line of Authority/Responsibility 10. Faculty Professional Development Plan 11. Service Schools for Instructors 12. Counseling, Testing and Referrals 13. Student Organizations/Activities 14. Resource Center 15. Recruiting Procedures 16. How to Treat Prospects 17. Financial Aid Services/Definitions 18. Agencies; Vo-Rehab / SER / WIA / VA / WORKS 19. Career Services Placement / Follow-up 20. Student Housing 21. Parking 22. Departmental & Divisional Meetings

23. Inventory Control (Fiscal Control) 24. Purchases – Coding invoices 25. Instructional Time 26. Lesson Planning/Preparation 27. Media Center Usage 28. Audio – Visual Aids 29. Grading 30. Attendance 31. Discipline 32. Orientation:

First Day Attendance or Absence

33. Evaluation of Students by Instructor 34. Evaluation of Instructor by Students 35. Advisory Committee 36. Blood Borne Pathogens 37. Hazardous Waste 38. Personal Protection Equipment 39. Faculty Mentorship 40. Harassment/Grievance Policy 41. SexualHarassmentVideo

C. POLICY ON FACULTY PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (Established July 1, 2004 – Revised 5/26/06) Professional development is essential in maintaining a high level of teaching and professional skills in keeping premier quality instructional programs at Northwest Tech. Full-time faculty is required to design, plan, implement, and evaluate a self-designed individualized professional development plan annually to be submitted by July 1. This plan must be based on identified short and long-range goals with emphasis on degree acquisition for non-degreed faculty and other eligible professional development for degreed faculty. The Dean of Academic Advancement must approve this plan. Progress in specified professional development activities will be reviewed at the instructor’s annual evaluation or prior to the next employment contract. Individual faculty members are responsible for promoting their own growth as teachers and are required to keep abreast of trends, research, publications, practices, and pertinent career specific information relative to their work assignment. Any college course eligible for tuition reimbursement will not be eligible for meal reimbursement. Tuition reimbursement will be provided upon submission of tuition reimbursement form and approval of the president. Eligible Professional development activities are:

• Coursework leading to advanced degree and teacher education (approved degree coursework) • Industry sponsored workshops and seminars • Professional association conferences

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• Return to industry or internships in career area • Presentations at state or national conferences • Mentorship • New teacher workshop

I. FACULTY DEVELOPMENT Faculty who do not hold a Bachelor Degree are required to take a minimum of 6 credit hours towards the below noted Associate Degree until it is completed. Timeline: 3 years or less. Upon completion of Associate degree, faculty must continue towards the bachelor degree until it is completed taking a minimum of 6 credit hours per year. Timeline: 5 years. Overall timeline for acquiring a Bachelor degree: 8 years. Technical Faculty Associate Degree Requirements: Northwest Tech Graduate Technical Faculty Associate Degree Requirements: Applied Specialization of instruction General Education: Minimum of 15 Credit Hours Communication 3 Credit Hours Social/Behavioral Science 3 Credit Hours Mathematics 3 Credit Hours General Education Electives: 6 Credit Hours Upon successful completion of the above pre-approved associate degree requirements and the faculty member providing an official transcript, a $500 increase in salary will become effective the next July 1 after meeting the criteria. Upon successful completion of the bachelor degree and faculty member providing an official transcript, a $1,000 salary increase will become effective the next July 1 after meeting the criteria. Upon successful completion of the masters degree and faculty member providing an official transcript, a $1,000 salary increase will become effective the next July 1 after meeting the criteria. II. TECHNICAL FACULTY Faculties that possess a bachelor degree will be required to prepare a professional development plan of activities chosen from the listed eligible activities. A minimum of 25 clock hours of approved development will be required each year. III. GENERAL EDUCATION FACULTY Faculty members possessing a bachelor degree will be required an annual professional development plan that shows evidence of work towards a master degree within the assigned teaching field. All general education faculty will be required to attain a masters degree with a minimum of eighteen (18) hours in discipline by August 1, 2017. Faculty members with a masters degree are to present a plan of activities chosen from the listed eligible activities. A minimum of 25 clock hours of approved development will be required each year.

D. NORTHWEST TECH CERTIFICATES & DEGREES I. TECHNICAL CERTIFICATE (Revised 5/26/06) Northwest Tech faculty members may receive a technical certificate from Northwest Tech if the following criterion is met:

1. Have successfully completed three (3) years of teaching in their particular discipline area. 2. Have successfully and satisfactorily completed the required professional development plans prior to issuing the technical

certificate from Northwest Tech. 3. Will be enrolled and receive transcript in certificate technical courses in the semester of board approval.

The above criteria will allow an instructor at Northwest Tech to obtain the college's technical certificate. The Area Board of Control shall receive proof of all such criteria having been met, and then grant the technical certificate to each eligible Northwest Tech faculty member. II. ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE (Revised 5/26/06) Upon an instructor receiving a Northwest Tech technical certificate the instructor will be eligible to receive an Northwest Tech degree if the following is met:

1. Completion of required college general education requirements and elective credit with a “C” grade or better. 2. Possess a high school diploma.

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3. File a plan for degree completion and make application for graduation with Northwest Tech administration. 4. Upon board approval the instructor will be enrolled and receive transcript in the remaining technical courses to complete

degree transcript. The above criteria will allow an instructor at Northwest Tech to obtain the college’s AAS degree. The Area Board of Control shall receive proof of all criteria having been met for an individual to be eligible to be granted the Northwest Tech degree.

E. EVALUATION POLICIES/PROCEDURES OF PROFESSIONAL FACULTY/INSTRUCTOR

• It shall be the purpose of the evaluation procedure to improve upon the learning experience for students. • Instructors should expect to be held accountable for the work they perform if the institution is to provide the best possible

technical programs and general education. • Evaluation should be a continuous process rather than a once or twice per year process by a designated person or persons.

I. OBJECTIVES OF THE EVALUATION

• To enable the instructor(s) to identify areas of strengths or weaknesses of performance. • To give the opportunity for instructor and administrators to objectively and jointly establish goals. • To provide a record of instructional performance.

II. INSTRUCTOR SKILLS

• Instructor’s plan to meet needs, abilities, and interests of the individual students. • Instructor’s ability to make clear explanation of assignments. • Instructor’s ability to provide challenges and opportunities for the entire class as well as individuals. • Maintain accurate and precise records of student performances and evaluation as an integral part of instructor skills.

III. INSTRUCTOR/STUDENT RELATIONSHIP Amended Policy Approved 1/23/10 – Area Board of Control

• The instructor shall provide a stimulating learning environment. • Instructor should utilize activities to encourage students’ initiative in a variety of ways. • The instructor should relate subject matter to its current application to the world of work, and in doing so, develop cooperation and

mutual respect among students. • Intimate relationships between instructor and student are prohibited and shall be considered unethical professional conduct. - PRE-EXISTING RELATIONSHIP

• Employees are required to sign a waiver of liability or responsibility of Northwest Kansas Technical College, in regard to a pre- existing relationship between a new employee and a new student at Northwest Kansas Technical College.

• The employee and student shall review Board Policy, as applied to Instructor/Student Relationships, and understand the Board prohibition of such relationships. The employee and student recognize the reasons why such relationships are prohibited by the college, and both the employee and student will waive any future liability or responsibility on the part of the college, or the Board, should there be any change in the pre-existing relationship between the employee and student due to any circumstance that might apply in any way to this Memorandum of Agreement.

• The employee agrees not to contact the student during the school day in any way that might draw attention to the pre-existing relationship. The employee also agrees not to attend any student event/student gathering at any time without explicit permission from the President of the College.

IV. INSTRUCTOR EVALUATION PROCESS

Northwest Tech shall have evaluation of instructional personnel as set forth by Northwest Tech policy. The Dean of Academic Advancement or designee will be responsible for the evaluation process.

• Each faculty employee in the first two (2) consecutive college years shall be evaluated two times, once during each semester as follows:

• Each faculty employee shall be evaluated at least once during the third and the fourth year of employment by March 15th. • All other faculty employees shall be evaluated not less than annually (after the fourth year of employment) or as deemed

necessary by the administration (by March 15th). • Each person evaluated has two (2) weeks to respond in writing to the evaluation (K.S.A. 729005). • All instructor evaluations will be made in writing and signed by the employee and evaluator. The evaluation document and

responses thereto will be maintained in the personnel file for each employee for at least three (3) years from date of evaluation. Such evaluation documents shall be available to only those parties as set forth in K.S.A. 729005.

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• Instructors will conduct a self-evaluation at least once per year as a means of maintaining current and updated information relative to their performance as an instructor at Northwest Tech.

• Professional development plans for each instructor will be evaluated during the evaluation process and updated, amended, and revised as necessary. Progress towards the professional development plan is required to maintain employment status. Exceptions will be based only on individual situations that justify an extenuating circumstance.

V. INSTRUMENTS USED FOR EVALUATION

• Instructor evaluation form to be completed by students. • Observation of instructional performance form. • Improvement of teaching performance. • Professional development plan forms.

F. TERMINATION OF FACULTY I. TENURED Cancellation of a contract may be made for: • Incompetence. • Physical disability or sickness of any type which interferes with the performance of duty. • Insubordination, which shall be deemed to mean a willful refusal to obey the school laws of this state, the rulings of the Kansas

Board of Regents, or reasonable rules and regulations prescribed for the government of Northwest Tech. • Neglect of duty. • Immorality. • Failure to give evidence of professional growth through professional development plan. • Justifiable decrease in the number of teaching positions. • Unethical conduct. All cancellation of teaching contracts will be conducted in accordance with the statutes of the State of Kansas and all due process requirements in such cases made and provided (per KSA Statute #72-5438,1992). II. NON-TENURED (Less than three consecutive years or non-tenured) Except as provided by K.S.A. 72-5445, all faculty who are employed after June 1, 1991 during their first three consecutive years of employment at Northwest Tech shall be deemed to be in a probationary status. Any contract with any such faculty employee may or may not be renewed, as the Area Board of Control shall determine without further liability to either party. The reasons for the non-renewal shall be left to the discretion of the Area Board of Control and shall not be subject to challenge, except that its decision shall not be based on legally impermissible grounds as provided by statute. Due process procedures and contract termination in the case of non-renewal or termination of a probationary employee shall be in accord with K.S.A. 72-5436 to 72-5437 and 72-5446, as amended. An employee on probationary status shall have no rights based on length of employment at the college, but during employment shall be entitled to the same economic benefits that are provided for other faculty.

G. LIQUIDATED DAMAGE CLAUSE At the board's option, the instructor shall be required to pay 1/12 of contract amount as liquidated damages to the college if contract is not fulfilled.

H. REDUCTION IN FACULTY PROCESS In the event it is necessary for the Area Board of Control to reduce faculty within a given program, such reduction of faculty shall be conducted through the procedures listed below. It is the desire of the Board to follow a fair and equitable process in making such faculty reduction and at the same time obtaining from present instructional faculty, if possible, the most qualified individuals to teach such technical program. I. POSSIBLE POINTS I. Current instructors must formerly resign. II. Confirm with each instructor his/her desire to instruct under the proposed change. Instructor must submit data sheet and application

letter (15 pts). III. Criteria to be used in selection of instructors:

A. Past evaluations (student input) (15 pts) B. Past and current work exp. in occupation. Fields (15 pts)

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C. Interview of instructors by a three-member committee consisting of: (1) The Northwest Tech President (2) Chairman, Faculty Committee, Area Board of Control (3) Individual to be selected and agreed upon by the present instructors within two weeks from date. If the present

instructors cannot agree upon an individual unanimously, then the other two-committee members shall make the selection of the third member. This individual shall be selected on the basis of knowledge in the occupation (55 pts) Points Possible: 100 pts

IV. Interview Committee makes written recommendation to the Area Board of Control. V. Area Board of Control is to make final decision on program change and hiring of instructors.

I. FACULTY ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT PERFORMANCES Instructors should remember that the technical certificate and degree issued by Northwest Tech requires a careful accounting of student progress in shop and classroom aspects. Instructors will receive program competency profiles and profile summary for each student so that the instructor may record the student's rating for courses covered during the grading period. Program competency profiles and profile summary are available in the office. Each course will receive a final grade. Lesson plan books are available. It is imperative that instructors make use of these books, planning one week in advance minimum. During the first year of teaching, weekly lesson plans are required to be given to the Dean of Academic Advancement on the Friday before the upcoming week. The instructor will maintain a record of student absences. The instructor shall keep an accurate record of absences by the number of hours absent each day, rather than by days. Grade reports shall be issued mid semester and at the end of the semester. Students can check their ongoing grade in the college Learning Management System (LMS). Instructors use the college LMS to track attendance; however, instructors may request a grade book. *The grade of “I” is given only in cases of illness or other extenuating circumstances that make it impossible to complete all work by the close of the semester. The incomplete grade contract will allow two weeks or a time frame agreed upon by instructor and student to complete work required. In the event that the student fails to fulfill the terms of the incomplete grade contract within the two-week time frame, the grade of “I” will be changed to an “F” on the student’s permanent record.

J. MINIMAL PROGRAM ENROLLMENT (Approved 7/25/09) Programs of study at Northwest Tech will be expected to remain viable by consistently achieving minimal enrollment of ten students to one faculty member annually. Programs that do not achieve criteria of 10 students to one faculty member at fall semester certification will be placed on review, following any possible reduction in force. Review criteria will consist of the following:

• Enrollment – Current and previous year as of fall certification date. • Job placement – 70 % or greater, the last two years. • Retention - 85% or greater the last two years.

Programs need to achieve at least two of the above criteria, with enrollment being one of the two. Programs reviewed and not meeting criteria will fall under one of the following statuses. Programs may be removed from any of the three statuses at the next fall certification if one criteria and enrollment is met.

1. Watch Status: First year of deficiency 2. Probationary Status: Second consecutive year of deficiency 3. Discontinuance Status: Third consecutive year of deficiency

When a program is placed on a status of watch, probation, or discontinuance an action plan will be forthcoming as follows:

• A meeting will be scheduled with administration, admission staff, program faculty and a designated secretary, all being part of the program action committee.

• An action plan will be developed to address areas of concern. • Meetings will be scheduled each month. • Members of the action committee will carry out the plan. • Routine progress will be reported.

The Area Board of Control has the authority and sole discretion to alter from this process at any time deemed necessary.

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K. MEETINGS/COUNCIL I. FACULTY MEETINGS Instructors shall attend such meetings unless specifically excused by the Dean of Academic Advancement. Faculty meetings are generally held at 3:00 p.m. in the Lyons Room on the first Monday of each month during the regular college year. The Dean of Academic Advancement conducts the meetings with input from the administrative staff and faculty. II. FACULTY/PRESIDENT COUNCIL A Faculty/President Planning Council is organized for the purpose of better communication between faculty and administration of the college. Both faculty and administration should use this forum to introduce new ideas or general concerns and for the purpose of reviewing policies. Meetings are scheduled monthly. III. DEPARTMENTAL MEETINGS Instructors shall have meetings once a month for the purpose of discussing college and department issues. The meetings will be held monthly at a convenient time. Minutes of the meeting are to be turned in to the President and Dean of Academic Advancement. IV. DIVISION MEETINGS Divisional meetings shall be held monthly for the purpose of discussing college issues. Meetings will be conducted at a convenient time after classes. Divisional chairs will record minutes and turn them into the Dean of Academic Advancement. V. CURRICULUM AND ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE The primary function of the committee is to ensure the quality and academic integrity of all Northwest Tech program offerings, curriculum; the committee also reviews the outcomes of the assessment program. Other functions, tasks and responsibilities of the committee include (but are not limited to):

• Identify specific activities and strategies along with target dates to develop and implement the general education curriculum • Review program reviews • Oversee new course/program development and deletion • Maintain course syllabi development and implementation in all programs • Review annual departmental assessment reports and data • Provide input to the development of the institutional assessment program • Address other academic and assessment issues and policies as needed

L. COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM REVIEW PROCESS Northwest Tech is committed to providing the highest quality technical education and educational environment. A comprehensive program review is an important part of this commitment. Comprehensive review provides essential data for continuous improvement and for verification of program and institutional effectiveness. These guidelines outline the process for a systematic collection of data about a program of study in order to improve the program’s effectiveness and evaluate its strengths and potentials. Each year three departments will conduct a comprehensive program review. Programs will be selected alphabetically. Further details of the process are available through the Dean of Academic Advancement.

M. ANNUAL PROGRAM REVIEW PROCESS Program evaluation is a part of the institution’s overall planning process. It is to be viewed as a critical self-study designed to systematically review the achievements of a program’s mission and goals. An annual program review will be conducted by departmental instructors to help ensure that the program is meeting the established benchmarks. All program reviews need to be completed and turned into the Assessment Coordinator by May 30th.

N. PROGRAM ASSESSMENT PLAN Programs are required to assess their program annually through the program assessment plans by establishing goals and objectives measured by setting benchmarks. This plan is the mechanism to aide in the improvement of program instruction, content, and relevant material to insure quality education. Instructors coordinate closely with the college Assessment Coordinator through this process.

O. CAPITAL OUTLAY REQUESTS Instructors of each department, maintenance personnel, food service, computer network personnel, and administration shall submit to the President a revised three-year Capital Outlay request plan in the spring of each year. Requests for equipment shall be prioritized by most urgent need for the current year and the subsequent two years. Each year, a list of equipment approved for purchase will be given to the instructor(s). Be certain that you receive approval from the President before ordering the equipment that is approved.

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P. PAYMENT POLICY FOR INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT When a staff member places orders from a company, make sure the order is complete (including any credits due, back-ordered materials if they are billed, etc.) prior to coding the invoice and turning in to the office for payment as soon as you receive it. Instructional supplies may be purchased during the year as follows:

1. The purchase order shall be used for presentation to the firm from which supplies and items for repair orders are desired. Instructors are asked to keep close control on the purchase orders. The purchase orders are received by signing each invoice after all purchases desired have been received. They will then need to be turned into the accounts receivable office as soon as you receive it.

2. Tax will not be charged on any college purchases other than the Village. It will be the instructor's responsibility to see that the

proper price of parts, etc. is recorded on the job or repair order ticket. It is also the instructor's responsibility to turn in all invoices (for college supplies, equipment, or repair order material) to the college Fiscal Control II office for processing at the end of each day, with proper notations thereon as to department and whether the invoices is for supplies or repairs. All supply stock and equipment items must be written on invoice in "common language", not part number. All projects completed for students or the general public must be on a cash basis. If a payment plan is desired, the customer will have to make arrangements elsewhere. It is important that once the job is complete, the repair order for the finished project be turned in to the college immediately. It is the instructor's responsibility to inspect all finished projects before the customer takes possession.

Q. INVENTORY Instructors should keep accurate inventory of all equipment. This inventory shall be taken at the close of the college year. It is suggested that the instructor keep one copy of the inventory and submit one copy to the Fiscal Control II office for permanent records. A list of all items of $5000 in value, to which a state inventory number has been assigned, will be distributed to instructors for verification each college year. Instructors must notify the President immediately if any equipment is found missing at any time during the college year.

R. SALE OF MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS BY DEPARTMENT It is to be understood that all college personnel shall turn into the main office any dollars acquired through the sale of miscellaneous merchandise (used equipment, copper wiring, batteries, iron, etc.) that may be sold as a result of the department's operation. Such monies shall be receipted to the miscellaneous all college account to be utilized at the discretion of the Area Board of Control. Department personnel shall NOT be permitted to use funds generated through the sale of such used merchandise at the discretion of the instructor. Any used items to be sold for a value above $50 shall receive approval prior to sale from the President.

S. CLASS SCHEDULE & BREAKS Departments will schedule class and lab to include not less than the number of approved hours of instruction given students each day, excluding lunch period. The schedule should contain adequate break periods between classes. If your instructional program permits, students should be permitted and encouraged to go to the Union during this time. The final scheduling of breaks will be determined by each instructor(s) for their class. Break periods shall be taken between instructional periods and not used to shorten the daily schedule. Please use the following guidelines: Morning Breaks (not to exceed 30 minutes):

• Programs that start at 7:00 AM, break cannot be scheduled before 8:30 AM.

• Programs that start at 7:30 AM, break cannot be scheduled before 9:00 AM.

• Programs that start at 8:00 AM, break cannot be scheduled before 9:30 AM. Afternoon Breaks (not to exceed 15 minutes):

• To be eligible for an afternoon break, the program must have a minimum of 3 hours remaining in their day. A schedule of classroom activities and break times will be submitted to the Dean of Academic Advancement for approval annually.

T. FIELD TRIP GUIDELINES It is possible that each department (or in some cases, departments combined) plan an overnight field trip each college year. Each student enrolled in a program is entitled to participate in one field trip during the freshman or sophomore year enrollment period. It will be permissible to take both first and second year students in the departments that are small enough to allow both groups of students to go in the same vehicle(s). Instructors should plan the trips for Wednesday and Thursday if at all possible. Field trips can be a rewarding experience for instructors and students within the various departments of Northwest Tech. The key to a successful field trip involves planning and preparation prior to leaving on a field trip. Since field trips are an approved department/college activity, it is necessary for instructors to realize that they are to be in charge and responsible for the students and their activities while on field trips. Please follow these procedures when planning field trips:

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1. Make initial request through the Dean of Academic Advancement four weeks prior to field trip to obtain the Dean of Academic Advancement’s approval of proposed field trip.

2. Write or email for confirmation of businesses you wish to tour. 3. Call for room reservations and seek a written confirmation letter. 4. Instructors shall be responsible for driving college vehicles. 5. Field trips are college functions, which put all supervision and responsibility on the instructor(s). 6. Instructor(s) and students may work together when organizing the field trip. However, the final decision shall be the

instructor’s responsibility. 7. Develop complete itinerary for field trip to be given to the President, Dean of Academic Advancement, and students prior to

leaving on field trip. 8. Students and instructor(s) shall go and return to Goodland in the vehicle(s) provided by the college.

General Suggestions:

1. Have an organized function of the entire group during the evening (Example: bowling or movie). 2. Students should wear neat and clean clothing during field trip. 3. There will be no consumption of alcoholic beverages by students during field trips. 4. Instructors should make routine check of motel rooms before checking out. 5. Instructor(s) and students are responsible for cleaning both interior and exterior of college vehicle(s) within 24 hours after

returning from a trip.

U. ADVISORY COMMITTEES Each department is expected to have an active department advisory committee. The committee shall meet twice per college year. A chairperson should be elected and will run the meeting. The instructor sets up the agenda and receives college administration approval before sending the agenda.

• The committee shall consist of a minimum of five members and may have additional members as needed or wanted.

• Consider bringing in an outside source for part of the meeting. Set members up on a rotation basis or schedule. Try not to use the same people year after year. If the meeting is scheduled during the day, allow time for new advisory members to tour the college. Often they are quite interested in other departments.

• Serve coffee and rolls at the meeting. The college will furnish refreshments.

• The instructor will take minutes of the meeting and send a copy of them to the members as well as the administration. Notify administration when the meeting will be held so they will have the opportunity to be present in a listening capacity.

• BE ORGANIZED AND READY TO GO WITH THE ADVISORY COMMITTEE EACH YEAR! (Precaution: Don't forget they are an advisory committee. They do not set college policies.)

V. INSTRUCTORS DOING PART-TIME WORK In the best interest of Northwest Tech, it is to be understood that instructor(s) may do part-time work in the related field of instruction provided that such part-time work is not operated as a competitive business or is advertised as a service to the general public. College facilities and equipment shall not be used for outside of college jobs. Such part-time work shall not interfere with the instructor’s preparation or performance of duties as an instructor of Northwest Tech. Each instructor is encouraged to obtain employment in his/her respective field in order to receive updated skills and become upgraded in their particular technical occupation at such time that contract and vacation time permits.

W. TRANSFER FROM PROGRAM TO PROGRAM A student may withdraw and enter a different program (space permitting) within two (2) weeks of the starting date. The enrollment, technology, and activity fee shall transfer in full. The tuition and other fees (i.e. clothing, lab) shall be adjusted to the costs of the program being entered. A student desiring to change programs after having been in attendance for more than two weeks (10 days) shall withdraw from the original program and enroll in the desired program at the next start date. Such student shall be required to pay the enrollment fee prior to entering the new program. The activity fee shall not be charged again to the student unless he/she has completed more than one-half (½) of the college year in the original program.

X. OCCUPATIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE (OWE) The Occupational Work Experience portion of the program is a privilege provided to some students, not a requirement for all students. I. QUALIFICATIONS/ELIGIBILITY

• Type of acceptable employment: The job duties required for occupational experience shall be in the area of program of study or an area directly relating to the student and departmental occupational objectives. All jobs must be full-time with a minimum of forty

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(40) hours per week and must meet all criteria on this page as well as criteria listed in the college handbook and be approved by the department faculty.

• All required courses will have been satisfactorily complete before the student is deemed eligible for employment. • The student shall have passing grades in all subjects required within the department program and an overall GPA is 2.0 or higher. • The student shall agree to fill out the necessary required forms and return them to the department as required along with weekly

reports and a comprehensive final item report describing the job duties and other related topics. • The student and employer shall agree that the student return for graduation exercise. All parties participating in this occupational experience phase of the program in order to qualify must agree to all of the above criteria. The instructor(s) may, if they deem necessary, decide NOT to allow individual students to participate in the occupational experience phase of the program. The department faculty will set dates for individual occupational experience. Every hour the student has been absent will result in later eligibility date for the occupational work experience part of the program.

Y. ADVANCED PLACEMENT/TRANSFER OF CREDIT Northwest Tech recognizes that some students have previous educational, military, or work experience that may qualify them for advanced standing. To be considered for advanced standing, submit to the College Counselor a letter requesting advanced standing along with an official transcript of post-secondary education completed with a “C” grade or higher and, if applicable, records or prior military/work experience in the field completed in the last three years.

Z. SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION OF STUDENTS The Area Board of Control authorizes any instructor to impose a short-term suspension not to exceed three college days and authorizes the President, the Dean of Student Advancement, or Dean of Academic Advancement to impose a short-term suspension not exceeding five college days. The Board also authorizes the President (or in case of their absences, a person delegated to take their place in such absence) the right to expel a student from further attendance at the college because of such student’s violation of college published policy.

AA. SPECIAL RULES FOR STUDENTS 1. Salespersons, insurance adjusters, landlord, etc. are not allowed to visit with students during instructional time. They may talk

to students or instructors during non-instructional time. 2. College department keys are not to be given to or loaned to students or other unauthorized persons. 3. College equipment, whether borrowed by student or individual, is not to be taken from campus without prior authorization from

the President. Equipment such as tillers, garden tractor, floor scrubber, etc., is for college use. Do not expect to have the use of such equipment.

4. College vehicles are not to be used for personal business. 5. Doing work on vehicles, etc. for individuals other than staff at the college during off-hours is prohibited. Outside work should

be used for student training purposes and should be done during college hours. 6. All purchases of supplies for students shall take place through the bookstore. Instructors are not to collect money or send

personal checks for student supplies. 7. Instructors shall on no account dismiss their students earlier than the appointed time or for any day or part of the day

WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF THE DEAN OF ACADEMIC ADVANCEMENT.

IV. STUDENT AFFAIRS

A. DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS I. VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC & STUDENT AFFAIRS (See page 24) THE FOLLOWING PERSONNEL ARE UNDER THE DIRECT SUPERVISION OF THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC & STUDENT AFFAIRS: II. ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FOR OFFICE OF STUDENT AFFAIRS

• Receptionist for the college • Assist with addressing incoming phone calls • Addresses student and parent questions • Enrollment application processing; entry of all data, acceptance letters and creating files • Processes student withdrawal • Summer enrollment/input in database and create files • Coordinates timely responses to inquiries with mailings and phone calls • Receives and processes “Academic Alert” – Academic/Attendance • Receives and performs data entry of High School Transcripts • Assist with Athletics processing

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• Assist with Housing applications, questions, deposits and confirmation letters • On-campus events support • Admissions Team member • Student Service support • Plans effective campus tours with students/parents • Coordinates Compass Testing set-up, scheduling • Assist in monitoring the enrollment count for all programs • Receives and addresses inquires of Student information and Counseling information • Assist with Financial Aid inquiries/questions/set up • Update/print recruiting information as needed • Assist with payments for student accounts • Other duties or services as assigned by the administration

III. ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS

• Oversees all recruiting, territory divisions for recruiting and supervise admission representatives. • Works with Student Services Coordinator to develop an annual plan to attend all CPC’s, high school visits, business

events and special recruiting activities both on/off campus. • Organizes and schedules calling nights on campus. • Works with Student Service Coordinator to coordinate Freshman/Sophomore Orientation and off-campus recruiting

events. • Monitors the input of all prospect cards to ensure timely processing. • Oversees the Career Service Coordinator for student scholarship processes. • Oversees the Administrative Assistant for Student Affairs to coordinate timely responses to inquires with mailings and

phone calls, and responds to all web inquires/tours/enrollment processes. • Works with the Director of Admissions to develop and initiate recruiting plans for all low-enrollment programs. • Oversees and trains the recruiting team to give effective and thorough campus tours. • Coordinates rapport with Tri-State Area Counselors and the recruiting team, to disseminate information and schedule

regular visits, providing updated program information. • Coordinates with the recruiting team to disseminate information to the public relative to programs at Northwest Tech. • Processes all I-20’s for international students planning on attending Northwest Tech. • Works with the Webmaster for marketing efforts; radio ads, advertising, ordering of promotional items. • Meets regularly with marketing committee to discuss/create radio commercials, scheduling Tech Talk discussions

and promoting upcoming NT events. • Oversees budget for recruiting. • Oversees budget for marketing. • Assist in the financial aid department, processing files, follow up with verification processes, student/parent inquiries

and award letters. • Assist in financial aid presentations at local high schools • Oversees the Daycare facilities. • Other duties or services as assigned by the administration whether written or implied.

IV. ADMISSIONS COORDINATOR

• Plans and oversees all recruiting, territory divisions for recruiting and supervision of other admission representatives. • Develops an annual plan for attendance at CPC’s, high school visits, and business visits. • Organizes, plans, and initiates calling nights on campus, freshman/sophomore orientations and off campus special

recruiting events and works closely with Director of Development. • Monitors the input of all prospect cards to insure timely processing. • Coordinates timely responses to inquiries with mailings and phone calls, and responds to all web

inquires/tours/enrollments. • Develops and initiates recruiting plans for all under enrolled programs or new programs. • Oversees and plans effective campus tours and special recruiting activities. • Develops rapport and disseminate information in Tri-State Area to counselors relative to programs and courses

offered at Northwest Tech. • Disseminates information to the public relative to programs and courses offered at Northwest Tech. • Promotes and gives presentations to civic groups and other organizations relative to Northwest Tech. • Coordinates all scheduling and assurance to follow KACRAO policies. (Kansas Association of College Registrars and

Admissions officers). • Oversees budget for recruiting. • Travels to secondary schools and other potential student centers representing the college

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• Other duties or services as may be assigned by the administration whether written or implied.

V. ADMISSIONS • Travel: representing the college at secondary schools • Speaking to guidance counselors, students and parents, and adults at special on and off-campus events; • Speaking to prospective students and their families during campus visits, as well as arranging and overseeing visits

of students on campus. • Record Keeping: processing data and reviewing applications for admission in a timely manner & maintaining detailed

records of work activity. • Contact Students in a timely manner: develop and maintain a relationship with prospective students and applicants

through telephone, e-mail, and correspondence letters. • Liaison with Academic Departments: working with academic programs to gain knowledge of curriculum. • Assists in developing an annual plan for attendance at CPC’s, high school visits, and business visits. • Assists with organizing, planning, and initiating call nights, on campus and off campus special recruiting events. • Assists in developing and initiating recruiting plans for all under enrolled programs or new programs. • Plans effective campus tours and special recruiting activities. • Develops rapport and disseminates information in Tri-State Area to counselors, teachers, and administrators relative

to programs and courses offered at Northwest Tech. • Disseminates information to area high school students and adults relative to programs and courses offered at

Northwest Tech. • Promotes and gives presentations to civic groups and other organizations relative to Northwest Tech. • Other duties or services as may be assigned by the administration whether written or implied. • Follows KACRAO & NACRAO policies • Assist in planning special events.

VI. FINANCIAL AID COORDINATOR Responsible for administering the following:

• Pell Grants • Direct Loan Programs • College Work Study • Workforce Investment Act • Social and Rehabilitation Services • Veterans Administration • National Guard • SER • Aides in the administration of disbursing scholarships. • Other state and federal programs available to assist students with financial aid • Obtains information and keeps current with rules and regulations of state and federal financial aids. • Organizes and processes federal financial aid for disbursement to students. • Actively participates in local, state, and regional financial aid organizations as deemed necessary and as approved by the

Dean of Academic Advancement. • Oversees, tracks, and maintains records for aid received and disbursed to students. • Initiates and carries out an educational program for the professional staff of the Northwest Tech as deemed appropriate to

update their knowledge of available financial aids. • Prepares and oversees the college work-study budgets and program. • The financial aid coordinator and the Dean of Academic Advancement shall be responsible for administering the scholarship

program at Northwest Tech. • Reconciles financial aid account and prepares quarterly reports to administration, to be shared with Area Board of Control.

VII. STUDENT RECORDS (See page 28) VIII. ATHLETIC DIRECTOR Duties and services as an integral part of the job include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for the schedule coordinating and day-by-day duties connected with athletics. • Responsible for team management duties including recruitment, advertising, training, teaching and any other support activities

that are necessary for student athletes to enjoy successful careers while attending Northwest Tech. • Prepares and administers intercollegiate athletic budget and provides fiscal overview for the athletic program. • Develops, in cooperation with athletic staff, games, schedules, and a certified base of game officials.

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• Ensures that all events held in conjunction with the Athletic Department are in compliance with NJCAA. • Works with the Student Services Coordinator in fund raising activities for the athletic programs. • Establishes and evaluates goals for the athletic program through the college’s institutional effectiveness program. • Develops and oversees an annual orientation program for athletes. • Develops appropriate tracking of and maintains appropriate information regarding the scholastic performance of all student

athletes. • Works with the Dean of Academic Advancement, Counseling Department, faculty and other areas as appropriate to ensure

that student athletes receive needed intervention and academic assistance in a timely manner. • Prepares Right To Know and Academic Success reports. • Coordinates with the School District regarding the use of shared athletic facilities. • Submits written proposals, including expected income and expenses, for camps or other athletic activities. These activities are

expected to be self-supporting with income covering all expenses, and will be offered as Continuing Education Leisure Learning classes.

• Supervises all recruitment activities within the intercollegiate athletic program to ensure compliance with conference and national rules.

• Maintain effective relations with area high school coaches to ensure an efficient and effective recruiting network. • Develops and disseminates team schedules for all college sporting events. • Maintains an inventory record of all athletic equipment. • Serves as contact for NJCAA and represents Northwest Tech at regional meetings. • Oversees the effective maintenance of all athletic facilities and equipment. • Maintains accurate and official team records, individual records, and program history. • Recommends an annual housing plan for athletes. • Develops and maintains an effective program in order to identify and attract scholarship prospects for the team. • Ensures ongoing eligibility of athletes. • Supervises the Assistant Coach(es) and other part-time employees. • Cooperates with regional and zone coaches to establish competitive, yet efficient, game schedules that are spectator friendly. • Coordinates all team travel adhering to prudent budgetary practices. • Coordinates concessions and other sales at home matches. • Overseas student Fitness Center.

IX. ATHLETIC COACH Duties and services as an integral part of the job include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for the schedule coordinating and day-by-day duties connected with athletics. • Develop own policy handbook and contract for athletes. • Supervise practices and workouts. • Coordinate travel arrangements for athletic events. • Recruit players for their respective program.

X. ASSISTANT ATHLETIC COACH Duties and services as an integral part of the job include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for the schedule coordinating and day-by-day duties connected with athletics. XI. MANAGER OF STUDENT HOUSING The Manager of the Villages (Student Housing) shall oversee the general operation of housing units including order, discipline and clean premises.

Duties and services as an integral part of the job include but are not limited to:

• Assist with clerical duties for housing operation • Coordinate all check in & check out procedures • Has the ability to assist students with personal problems and helps in resolving issues. • Works as coordinator of functions involving student residents at the Village. • Maintains order, discipline and clean premises. • Develops a schedule for facility inspection and checks to assure the premises are properly maintained by students,

(trashed dumped, units cleaned, etc.). • Develops an understanding with students regarding utilization of utilities and practicing conservation. • Contacts doctor, parent, or guardian as designated by the student when illness or personal tragedy occurs. (Notify the

President as well). • Organizes a student committee to assist with governing the Village. Village Resident Council. • Oversees maintenance of grounds and exterior of facilities. • Inspects units upon students leaving and determines return of deposit.

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• Makes recommendations for improvements of village units and preparation of units for new residents. • Notifies maintenance staff, program faculty, or administration when repairs are required beyond normal custodial care. • Brings to the Dean of Student Services attention any occurrence meriting his notification. • Inspects fire extinguishers monthly. • Oversees student housing laundry facility. • Carries out other duties as directed by the Dean of Student Services, Assistant Vice President

XII. DORM MAINTENANCE • Maintain facilities health and safety standards • Maintain all systems operation • Repair or replace non-functioning components • Maintain appearance of facilities exterior • Co-coordinate with housing manager the supervision of residents obligation for maintaining good sanitary conditions for

entire living quarters, including bathrooms and showers • Under the direction of the Dean of Student Advancement, complete all assigned tasks and secure authorization for all

purchases and services • Any other duties as assigned by Dean of Student Advancement

XIII. DEAN OF STUDENT SERVICES/COUNSELOR

• Attend and contribute to administrative council meetings as requested. • Counsel and advise students including personal and career. • Serve as an academic advisor for Technical Certificates and AAS degrees. • Conduct the college-testing program including testing reports as needed. • Serve as 504 Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator. • Serve as contact for students with special needs, arranging for accommodations and services. • Assist with college events and open houses. • Assist admissions with enrollment of students. • Compile annual student profile. • Conducts required disciplinary actions for students. • Oversees the following:

• Student Housing • Intramural Programs • Student Organizations • Fitness Center • Career Services • Performs other duties as assigned.

XIV. REGISTRAR

• Directs and coordinates college registration activities • Consult with other college personnel to orchestrate registration schedules and procedures. • Directs preparation of student transcripts • Directs preparation of statistical reports on educational activities for local, state and federal agencies. • Coordinate, evaluate and certify all graduation applicants • Responsible for collecting, recording, maintaining and reporting of student records with FERPA guidelines, i.e., grades

registration data, transcripts, mid-term verification, athletic eligibility and associated audits. • Directs all advising activities • Collaborate with administrators, faculty, IT and counselors to facilitate and improve services to students, including catalog

and registration/records policy questions. • Develops census, temporary and permanent rosters for faculty • Responsible for institutional research • Prepare commencement list • Responsible for other tasks and duties as may be assigned by the President or Vice Presidents of Northwest Tech. • Develop Monthly Retention Reports

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XV. STUDENT COUNCIL SPONSORS The duties of this supplemental agreement/contract sponsorship include working with faculty and staff members of Northwest Tech as well as students to ensure participation in Student Council activities. XVI. FITNESS CENTER MANAGER The manager in cooperation with the city/county parks and recreation department shall develop and oversee the intramural programs of Northwest Tech, including but not limited to volleyball, basketball, and softball. XVII. FITNESS CENTER STAFF Fitness Center staff reports directly to the Fitness Center Manager. Fitness center staff shall be responsible for the general oversight of the fitness Center. XVIII. HOUSING MANAGER The Housing Manager personnel shall oversee the general maintenance and cleaning of the housing units.

• Maintain facilities health and safety standards • Maintain all systems operation • Repair or replace non-functioning components • Maintain appearance of facilities exterior • Assist with check-in and check out of all students into rooms. • Provide oversight of student residence • Co-coordinate with Dean of Student Services, the supervision of residents obligation for maintaining good sanitary conditions

for entire living quarters, including bathrooms and showers • Under the direction of the Dean of Student Services complete all assigned tasks and secure authorization for all purchases

and services • Any other duties as assigned by Dean of Student Services

XIX. BOOKSTORE MANAGER The bookstore manager is under the direct supervision of the Dean of Academic Advancement. The bookstore manager is responsible for the overall operation of the store including ordering and pricing all merchandise sold there. Instructors are to give a detailed list of textbooks, tools, and other items needed by students to the manager for timely procurement. This position oversees and coordinates inventory control, sales and returns, vendor relations, cash management, and related reporting of the operational and administrative functions of the bookstore operation.

• Manages the operation of the store, including purchasing supplies and books, making special orders, receiving shipping, and returning of overstocked or defective merchandise.

• Coordinates payment of invoices. • Prepares and administers bookstore budget and recommends, implements, and administers operating policies and

procedures. • Works with faculty and vendors to acquire and assure availability of new/used texts, clothing, tools, and class supplies for

students. • Oversees maintenance of stock, displays, signs, and inventory; manages year-end inventory utilizing computer to check for

theft and shrinkage. • Implements systems and processes to establish and maintain records for the operating unit. • Coordinates the ordering and distribution of clothing as required by instructors. • Maintains tool lists. • Other duties as assigned.

XX. CAREER SERVICES/ ENDOWMENT SUPPORT ASSISTANT The Career Services/Endowment Support Assistant facilitates support for Career Services and Endowment activities.

• Establishes relationships with students, graduates and employers to promote and facilitate job placement for both part-time and full-time employment. • Provides the Job Preparation course (update resume, interview skills, completing a job application) to all students. • Informs students and web master about full and part-time career opportunities. • Arranges and coordinates on-campus interviews. • Contacts all graduates to obtain follow-up data relating to employment and related campus services upon Graduation for required internal, state and federal reports. • Assist with scholarship processes. • Interacts with colleagues, students, staff, and administrators in a manner which will promote a positive image of Career Services and Endowment Association. • Maintains confidential student and referral records. • Manages and develops alumni services including updating & communicating college activities and events.

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• Assist with all college Endowment activities. • Supports secretarial needs for the Endowment Director. • Assist with gift records, donor acknowledgements and solicitations. • Other duties or assignments as assigned whether written or implied.

B. ETHICAL STANDARDS IN COLLEGE RECRUITMENT POLICY In representing Northwest Tech at recruitment events (i.e., college/career fairs, high school visits, etc.), admissions representatives shall conduct themselves in a professional manner, reflecting the dignity of their profession and the college. As a member of Kansas Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers (KACRAO) and an institution that accepts the National Association for College Admission Counseling Statement of Principles of Good Practice, all Northwest Tech employees shall conduct themselves professionally and ethically in accordance with aforementioned associations’ recruitment practices and standards. The college will adhere to federal financial aid regulations that prohibit any form of commission pay that directly links student enrollment to the compensation of admissions, recruitment, or financial aid personnel or any other employee.

C. PLACEMENT It shall be a goal of Northwest Tech to offer a placement and follow-up service to all students who complete a program. It is expected that at least 70% of all students shall be placed in a direct or related occupational field in conjunction with the program they complete at Northwest Tech. A one-year follow-up program shall be conducted to assure that the goals and objectives relative to placement have been met.

D. STUDENT AFFAIRS EVALUATION The Dean of Academic Advancement is to conduct an annual evaluation of the student services personnel. The evaluation will include:

1. Yearly evaluation of each member of the student services staff. 2. Conduct a survey of the students regarding the services provided by student affairs staff, i.e. counseling, admissions, resource

center, etc., and/or use the results of the core indicator report—student satisfaction survey. 3. Complete a plan for improving the effectiveness of student services, including goal settings, with the student services staff. 4. A report is to be given to the President and all members of the student affairs personnel staff.

E. STUDENT RELATED INFORMATION I. REGULAR STUDENT

A. Must be 16 years of age or older. B. Must have a vocational objective: a student must select a program of study. C. Must have the ability to succeed in the institutional program of study. The applicant must have a high school diploma, GED, or

can be concurrently enrolled as a high school student. The college accepts students who have withdrawn from high school and have demonstrated the “ability to benefit” (ATB).

II. SOPHOMORE YEAR ENROLLMENT FEE Students in two-year programs will complete an enrollment form as pre-registration for the second year at the midpoint of their Freshman year and pay a $25.00 enrollment fee. III. REFUND FOR ONLINE CLASSES A student withdrawing from an on-line class during the first five (5) calendar days of the course will be granted 100% refund of tuition. Students withdrawing the sixth (6th) through the fifteenth (15th) calendar day of the course will be granted a 50% refund of tuition. No refund is available to a student after these calendar days. To receive a refund, a written request must be received on or before the above stated deadlines. However, Federal Title IV funds will be returned to their sources for students whose tuition was paid by Title IV funds according to the refund or return of Title IV funds policy, whichever is applicable. IV. MILITARY SERVICE POLICY • CURRENTLY ENROLLED STUDENTS Students who are currently enrolled and called to military service (voluntary or otherwise) will be withdrawn from their program of study and granted credit for coursework with performance of a “C” or higher grade (2.0 or above GPA). Upon return from military service, students will be re-enrolled at the earliest possible opportunity to continue work in their program of study. Advance standing will be given for any coursework completed with a “C” or higher grade (2.0 or above GPA) in the program of study and the student will not be required to repeat such coursework. • INDIVIDUALS ON WAITING LIST Individuals who are on a waiting list to enter a Northwest Tech program and are called to military service will not lose their status on the waiting list. Individuals will retain their original position on the waiting list and will have a position reserved for them, should they be

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passed over due to military service. Individuals who are passed over will be placed at the earliest entry position on the waiting list for the next program start date. V. WORK STUDY STUDENTS Work-study students may be employed to do various types of jobs on campus. Examples of work-study jobs will include custodial, intramural sports, tutoring, and other assignments as needed and directed by the work-study supervisor or financial aid coordinator.

F. ATTENDANCE POLICY Attendance of students in each program offered at Northwest Tech is of vital importance to student and college. When a student is absent or tardy, for any reason, the student misses valuable instruction and experience. The college views absences as lost production in the educational process. A student's absences and tardiness will affect the evaluation for the grading period in which such absences/tardiness occurs. The instructor(s) may be giving assignments, tests, or other types of evaluations and lower grades as a result of being absent/tardy. Each individual department will develop a procedure for handling absenteeism and tardiness. When a department has more than one instructor, the procedure on treatment of absences and tardiness, including allowing or disallowing makeup time for students who have been absent or tardy, shall be consistent among all instructors from that department. A permanent record of all absences and tardiness shall be maintained by instructor(s) as required by the Kansas Board of Regents and for recording on student transcripts and credentials. Instructors will utilize the Academic/Attendance Alert system for unsatisfactory attendance.

G. DETERMINATION OF WITHDRAWAL A withdrawal occurs when a student officially or unofficially withdraws, is expelled, or otherwise fails to complete the program on or after the first day of class. The withdrawal date is the last recorded date of class attendance. The student is required to process their withdrawal from school through the student affairs office.

H. PROGRESS RATING SYSTEM & PROCEDURES The college rating system shall be as follows: A Excellent 100-90% 4.0 B Above Average 89-80 % 3.0 C Average 79-70% 2.0 D Below Average 69-60% 1.0 F Unsatisfactory Below 60% 0.0 I Incomplete NA W Withdrew P Passing

I. STUDENT UNREST POLICY Any student of this college who participates either as an individual or as a part of a group, including other students or non-students in any activities on campus, or in any of the buildings of Northwest Tech with the intent to disrupt the orderly conduct of the classes and business of the college shall be deemed to have violated the rules of said college, and after a hearing as hereinafter provided, may be subjected to any or a combination of the following penalties:

1. Loss of privileges. 2. Suspension from classes for a stated time. 3. Expulsion from the college.

Before the college shall impose said sanctions as set out in the paragraph above, said students shall be entitled to receive a written statement of the charges against them naming particularity the time, place, and nature of the conduct complained of, said accusation to be signed by the administrative head of the college. At the same time, the student shall be given written notice of a time for a hearing to be had, not sooner than three (3) days after the date of service upon them of the written accusation as aforesaid. Said hearing shall be held at a place designated in the notice on the campus of the college. Said hearing shall be held before a board of review composed of three (3) persons designated by the Area Board of Control. Such persons are not to be directly involved in the activities under investigation in order to afford a fair and impartial hearing. At said hearing, the burden shall be on the complaining administrative personnel to establish the truth of the allegations contained in the accusation, and the administrative personnel for that purpose may call witnesses and present such writings and other exhibits as they may deem proper. Both the administrative personnel and the accused student shall be entitled to be represented by counsel at said hearing. After the presentation of witnesses and other evidence on behalf of the college and the student, a decision by the board of review shall be promptly made in writing.

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In the event the student is aggrieved by a decision of said board of review, such student shall have the right to an appeal and a hearing before the entire Area Board of Control of Northwest Tech. In addition to the provisions herein set out, the administrative personnel and the Area Board of Control shall, when in their discretion the situation demands it, avail themselves of the courts for the purpose of obtaining temporary injunctions or restraining orders of threatened courses of action which might lead to the disruption of the orderly conduct of the college or the damage to the property of college, and in cases where they deem it necessary, shall call on the law enforcement officials of the city, county, and state for assistance in preventing the disruption of the conduct of the college or the damage to the property of the college or injury to students who are not engaged in the unrest.

J. SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION OF STUDENTS Amended Policy Approved 1/23/10 – Area Board of Control The Area Board of Control authorizes any instructor to suspend a student up to three days. The President or the Dean of Academic Advancement may impose a short-term suspension not exceeding five college days, and the president or designated college administrators (or in the case of their absence, a person designated to take their place in that absence) hold authority to expel a student from further attendance at the college because such student is considered in violation of any of the following: 1. Willful violation of any published regulation for student conduct adopted or approved by the Area Board of Control, or 2. Conduct which substantially disrupts, impedes, or interferes with the operation of the college, or 3. Conduct which substantially impinges upon or invades the rights of others, or 4. Conduct which has resulted in conviction of the student of any offense specified in Chapter 21 of the Statutes of the State of Kansas

or any criminal statute of the U.S., or 5. Disobedience to an instructor, peace officer, college security officer, or other college authority when such disobedience can

reasonably be anticipated to result in disorder, disruption, or interference in the operation of Northwest Tech or substantial and material impingement upon invasion or rights of others, or

6. Firing, displaying, or threatening use of firearms, explosives, or other weapons on the college premises for any unlawful purpose, or 7. Possession of illegal or dangerous substances, or 8. Destruction or misuse of college property, or 9. Theft. A written notice of suspension/expulsion from the college is provided to the student at the time of the appropriate action or sent certified mail to the last known address within 48 hours of the suspension/expulsion by the Dean of Academic Advancements’ office. RIGHT TO APPEAL Students will have the opportunity for “due process” by exercising their right to use the “Grievance Procedure of Students” policy (found in the College Catalog) when they do not agree with the terms of suspension or expulsion and would like to appeal that decision.

K. STUDENT EDUCATIONAL RECORDS/RIGHTS OF PRIVACY Northwest Tech complies with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 in the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of official student records. These records are subject to inspection and review by the student. Northwest Tech has 45 days to respond to individual requests, though this amount of time would not normally be required. Students wishing to challenge the accuracy of their records should contact the records clerk. Information in a student's record will not be released without the student's permission, although "directory information" will be released. This information will include:

1. Student’s name. 2. Affirmation student is enrolled. 3. Local address and phone number. 4. Home address. 5. College, department, division, or major. 6. Date of enrollment, degrees received, honors awarded, and job placement. 7. Participation in officially recognized activities.

L. CONSENT TO RELEASE Northwest Tech must receive a form duly signed prior to all other educational records being released by the college.

M. TRANSFER OF RECORDS When the student becomes eighteen years of age or is attending a post-secondary institution, all rights formerly accorded parents of the student become the sole rights of the student. Students wishing to have the above information withheld from releases must notify the student records clerk in writing.

N. OPEN RECORDS ACT All records, except those subject to exception by the Kansas Open Records Act, shall be open to inspection by the public during regular office hours. Requests for accessing records must be made in writing to the President’s Office during normal business days.

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NORTHWEST KANSAS TECHNICAL COLLEGE Parent(s), Guardian, or Eligible Student* I. REQUEST FOR ACCESS TO EDUCATIONAL RECORDS TO: _____________________________________________________ Record Custodian We/I as parent(s) of, or as an eligible student Student Name_____________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________ City_____________________________________________________ Hereby request access to the following educational records and files: ( ) All records ( ) Courses, grades, credits, attendance ( ) Health record, test scores ( ) Other (specify): __________________________________________ It is understood that a cost service charge will be made for any copy or reproduction of these records. A college employee, if requested, will interpret records. This form MUST be presented to the President or records custodian before access will be granted. An appointment for access shall be made no later than 45 days from the date of request. _________________________________________________________ ___________________ Signature of parent(s), guardian or eligible student Date *Indicates a student who has attained eighteen years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education. FOR COLLEGE USE ONLY: Date of Record access: _____________________________________ Person providing access/copies: _______________________________ Cost charged for services $___________________________________ Received by: ______________________________________________ Records made available: Record Copies:

O. ETHICAL STANDARDS IN PRIVACY OF PERSONAL INFORMATION POICY The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLB), and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) require the college to protect the privacy of certain personal health information, financial records, educational records and personal student information. It is the intent of the college to comply with all applicable provisions of these Acts. Employees shall abide by and follow all college policies, procedures, and programs regarding the safeguarding of such information and shall take all necessary and required measures to otherwise protect private information created, stored, transmitted or disposed in the course of their job duties, regardless of the medium in which that information is maintained. Individuals who believe their rights under the Act(s) have been violated may file a complaint with the Dean of Academic Advancement.

P. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY Students who compromise the academic integrity of the classroom, laboratory, shop, internship, or clinical areas will be subject to disciplinary action, which may result in suspension and expulsion from Northwest Tech. Violations of academic integrity include, but are not limited to cheating, plagiarism, falsification, forgery, or alternation of records.

Q. ETHICAL STANDARDS IN FINANCIAL AID POLICY The purpose of this policy is to establish a code of conduct for employees involved in the administration of student financial aid that prevents conflicts of interest and to establish standards of conduct for employees who have responsibilities related to student financial aid. The College will not enter into any revenue-sharing arrangement with any lender. The College will not refuse to certify, or delay certification of, any federal loan based on the borrower’s selection or a particular lender or guaranty agency. The college financial aid staff is expected to maintain exemplary standards of professional conduct in all aspects of carrying out his or her responsibilities. In doing so, financial aid staff should follow the NASFAA Code of Conduct for institutional financial aid professionals.

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V. MISCELLANEOUS/BOARD POLICIES

A. SAFETY POLICY Northwest Tech strives to provide an accident-free work environment. Northwest Tech realizes that the success of any accident prevention effort depends primarily on the cooperation and active support of all employees. Each employee is expected to abide by safety rules and follow safe work practices. Every employee must be constantly alert in reporting and correcting unsafe conditions and acts. Accidents shall be reported to the President immediately. Northwest Tech enforces Federal and State Safety Regulations. Listed below are the current safety and health standards being enforced by the State of Kansas Bureau of Industrial Safety and Health.

1. Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA) 2. National Fire Protection Association Standards (NFPA) 3. American National Electric Code (NEC) 4. American National Standards (ANSI)

A part of everyone's job is to teach safety to others. Being unsafe puts not only yourself, but others at risk. Instructional programs are required to teach safety procedures to all students. The cafeteria supervisor and the head custodian are responsible for the safety orientation for the employees they supervise. All departments shall develop emergency procedures and inform all participants of those procedures. Students will be taught proper handling of hazardous materials. Each department shall be responsible for proper cataloging of material safety data sheets. Each department shall maintain its own first aid station(s). The county health nurse, Medical Arts Clinic, ambulance service, and the emergency facilities at the Goodland Regional Medical Center are located within five minutes of Northwest Tech.

B. BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGEN POLICY/PROCEDURE It is the policy of Northwest Tech to provide protection for all college personnel. Promotion of proper blood borne pathogen and body fluids protection is provided to employees through online instruction. During the in-service, the policy and procedures information will be given to regular employees and thoroughly discussed.

C. ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS) POLICY Northwest Tech adopts a plan of action to inform the student body and personnel relative to the AIDS virus as follows:

1. Students and college personnel will obtain pamphlets from the Sherman County public health nurse explaining the procedure to prevent AIDS and the proper processes that should be followed by individuals to assure that necessary precautions are carried out.

2. Videotapes depicting the AIDS problem today will be available to students of Northwest Tech.

D. CRIME AWARENESS & CAMPUS SECURITY POLICIES Northwest Tech shall comply with Title II of the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990. Crimes are classified in two categories:

1. Crimes against persons and 2. Crimes against property

Crimes committed on campus shall be reported to Northwest Tech personnel. The President shall be immediately informed of any crime committed. Northwest Tech administration will notify local law enforcement agencies concerning any crimes reported on campus. The Goodland Police Department is the primary source of enforcement authority for the campus. Any student or employee of the college who observes criminal activity should immediately contact college personnel or the Goodland Police Department. Northwest Tech shall collect data on designated crimes committed on campus, which are reported to college authorities and/or local police agencies. This data will be compiled on an annual basis from July 1 through June 30 as required by federal law. Information is available upon request. The statistical data shall be kept for the following on campus criminal offenses: murder, forcible sex, non-forcible sex, with a minor robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. Statistics shall be kept for the number of arrests occurring on campus for liquor law, drug abuse, and weapons possessions violations. Northwest Tech will contact local law enforcement agencies for data on any criminal offenses or arrests that occur on the Northwest Tech campus during the annual reporting period. Intramural sports, departmental field trips, and department club activities that take place off campus are officially sponsored college activities. Any crimes committed against participants, their property, or the facilities are considered as crimes committed on campus.

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Students and employees will be informed of these crime awareness and campus security policies in the employee handbook and college catalog. The annual statistical data on reported crimes will be available on a separate form. All students will be advised during student orientation of these policies and their responsibility for their own security and the security of others. Policies regarding the possession, use, and sale of illegal drugs and alcoholic beverages, the enforcement of federal and state drug laws, and the drug and alcohol abuse education programs as required under Section 1213 of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, are covered under existing policies at Northwest Tech.

E. CAMERA POLICY Purpose Northwest Kansas Technical College is committed to enhancing the quality of life of the campus community by integrating the best practices of safety and security with technology. We have added security cameras to a portion of our campus to assist in making our campus as safe as possible. These cameras are not actively monitored, but they are intended to deter crime and assist in the investigation of crimes and recovery. This policy addresses the College’s safety and security needs while respecting and preserving individual privacy. To ensure the protection of individual privacy rights in accordance with the College’s values and state and federal laws, this policy is adopted to formalize procedures for the installation of surveillance equipment and the handling, viewing, retention, dissemination, and destruction of surveillance records. The purpose of this policy is to regulate the use of camera systems used to observe and record public areas for the purposes of safety and security. Policy All video footage will be secured and will be managed by the Information Technology Department. Any requests to view camera footage will be submitted to the Dean of Student Service. The Dean of Student Advancement office will review any complaints regarding the utilization of surveillance camera systems and determine whether this policy is being followed. The Dean of Student Advancement Office will review all external requests to release records obtained through security camera surveillance. The College will seek consultation and advice from the General Counsel as needed related to these requests prior to the release of any records outside of the College. Video surveillance records will generally not be released to the public, students, general employee or parent. The content of the video is a student and College record subject to administrative regulations regarding confidential student records. While College personnel will typically review the footage, the College reserves the right to allow individuals to view video footage if that is a necessary action as part of an investigation of a crime, code of conduct violation,, significant campus safety concern or campus policy violation. General Principles Cameras are not actively monitored. They are viewed only upon the report of a crime or violation. Information obtained from the cameras shall be used exclusively for campus policy enforcement, including, where appropriate, student judicial functions or to assist local law enforcement and campus/local crime. Information must be handled with an appropriate level of security to protect against unauthorized access, alteration, or disclosure. All camera installations are subject to federal and state laws. Placement of Cameras Cameras will be located so that personal privacy is protected. Camera positions and views of residential housing shall be limited to external areas. The view of a residential housing facility must not violate the standard of a reasonable expectation of privacy. Anyone who tampers with video equipment will be subject to disciplinary action through the Office of the President. Access and Monitoring All recording or monitoring of activities of individuals or groups by college security cameras will be conducted in a manner consistent with College policies, state and federal laws, and will not be based on the subjects’ personal characteristics, including age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. When an incident is reported, the personnel responsible for the area in question may request the Dean of Student Advancement to review the images from the camera. As circumstances require, the Dean of Student Advancement may authorize others to review images.

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Appropriate Use and Confidentiality Personnel are prohibited from using or disseminating information acquired from university security cameras, except for official purposes. All information and/or observations made in the use of security cameras are considered confidential and can only be used for official college and law enforcement purposes upon the approval of the Dean of Student Advancement or designee. Personnel are expected to know and follow this policy. Use of Cameras for Criminal Investigations The use of video equipment may be used in criminal investigations on behalf of the College. Individuals or agencies from outside of the College must request access to view materials. Video records will be destroyed within seven days at the conclusion of any investigation and subsequent hearing process. Safety and Security Camera Storage and Retention of Recordings No attempt shall be made to alter any part of any surveillance recording. Surveillance centers and monitors will be configured to prevent camera operators from tampering with or duplicating recorded information. All surveillance records shall be stored in a secure location for twenty-one days and will then promptly be erased or written over unless retained as part of a criminal investigation or court proceedings (criminal or civil), or other bona fide use as approved by the Dean of Student Advancement. Individual departments shall not store video surveillance recordings.

F. EMERGENCY ACTION & DISASTER PLAN Northwest Tech is committed to the safety of its students, employees, and the community-at-large. The Office of the President or designee is charged with planning, implementing, and communicating actions to be taken by employees and students in response to any number of possible emergencies. Emergency Notification System: The emergency notification system is messages sent by phone, text, e-mail, or push notification. All faculty, staff and students who are enrolled in the system will receive emergency action information once a threat is received or hazardous situation arise. PLEASE NOTIFY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT TEAM, THEY WILL START EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM. In the event of an emergency notify one of the following, if it is safe to do so. • 911-always alert emergency personnel first • President of the College (Ext 501) • Vice President for Operations (Ext 502) • Dean of Academic Advancement (Ext ) • Dean of Student Advancement (Ext 584) • Vice President for Information Technology (Ext 546) • Director for Building and Grounds (620-660-1956) I. PROCEDURES This has been prepared to offer guidelines for events that are unusual to Northwest Kansas Technical College’s environment. Most disasters are caused by circumstances beyond our control, but with proper preparation, we will strive to minimize the inconvenience to the user of Northwest Tech. II. TORNADO

• Watch: A tornado watch means weather conditions are ideal for the formation of tornadoes • Warning: A tornado warning means that a tornado has been sighted in the local area

When the National Weather Service issues a tornado warning for Sherman County, and the siren sounds, everyone should take cover by going to the designated shelter area. If the warning occurs after 5:00 pm or on a weekend, the housing manager will open the shelter area.

• The location of the shelter area is posted near the entrance of each building. • When a tornado is directly threatening the campus area, the siren will blow continuously until the immediate danger is over. • Remain in a protected area until the storm is over. • The Business Office or the housing manager will announce an all-clear based on the National Weather Service information

when warnings have been canceled or the time period has expired. III. TORNADO DRILL PROCEDURE The college will conduct tornado drills periodically, and it is expected that all instructors and students shall participate in the procedure as outlined: All students and instructors on campus shall, upon notification by the city's continuous warning blast and/or the college's alarm system, proceed in an orderly fashion to the Student Union Emergency Shelter. Students and instructors from buildings on the west side of the campus will enter the shelter area through the west door. Instructors and students from buildings on the east side of the campus shall enter through the east side. Proceed at once to the basement shelter area.

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Handicapped students are directed to the tornado shelter provided on the main level at the east entrance to the auditorium tornado area. IV. HIGH WINDS Appropriate action will be taken when high winds are occurring. The siren may be activated. Everyone should go to an area away from glass. V. LIGHTNING

• Do not leave buildings during lightning. • Bring inside any people who are outside. • Keep as far away as possible from windows, outside doors, metal fixtures, and plug-in electrical appliances. • If already in a vehicle, stay there. • When leaving a vehicle or a building, avoid walking in puddles.

VI. FIRE

• Pull the fire alarm if it is not already sounding or call 9-911. • When a fire alarm is activated in a building, maintenance personnel will respond. • All people within the building will evacuate in an orderly fashion. Northwest Tech employees should assume the responsibility

to assist any disabled people in their area. • Walk to an area away from the building so as not to block drives. Instructors will take roll of students. Stay clear of the

building until notified by proper authorities that it is safe to return. • Call the Business Office.

VII. FIRE DRILL PROCEDURE A fire drill will be carried out periodically. Students and instructors are requested to follow the procedure as listed below:

• All campus buildings are to have students exit at the nearest exit. All individuals are to walk briskly when the alarm has sounded. Exit from building so that all students may exit with ease.

• Each instructor is to have an agreed upon meeting place so that attendance may be taken to insure all students have exited the building. Instructors are to appoint a student leader to take attendance in the event the instructor is incapacitated or not available to take role.

• The fire alarm in the main building will be an intermittent alarm sound. All other buildings will be involved with fire drills at the discretion of the departmental instructors by designated signal.

VIII. MEDICAL EMERGENCIES/INJURIES

• Call 9-911 for injuries or medical emergencies requiring immediate action. • If a person is seriously injured, do not move him or her unless there is a life-threatening danger (i.e. falling debris, fire, an

explosion, etc). • Call the Business Office to report the injury or medical emergency and to see if an ambulance is in route (when applicable). • Remain with the victim until emergency crews arrive.

IX. ACCIDENTS

• A Northwest Tech accident report must be submitted to the Business Office within 24 hours of the accident, regardless of the severity of the injury.

• The term “accident” applies to any personal injury. X. CRIME/CRIMINAL ACTIVITY

• Do not attempt to apprehend or interfere with the criminal except in a case of self-protection. • If safe to do so, take time to get a good description of the criminal. For example: if the criminal is entering a vehicle, note the

license number, make, model, color, and any outstanding characteristics. • Call 9-911 • Call the Business Office and advise them of the situation and remain where you are until contacted by an officer. • In case of theft, property damage, or minor injuries, contact the Business Office to submit a report.

XI. CIVIL DISTURBANCES

• Notify the Business Office • College personnel should attempt to isolate those causing the trouble. • Under the discretion of the President, off-campus police authorities may be contacted.

XII. BOMB THREAT

1. If received in the form of a phone call: The person receiving the call should try to keep the caller on the line to obtain voice qualities, speech patterns, age, sex, and mental condition, and try to obtain the following information:

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Ask the caller to repeat the message. For example, tell the caller you don’t understand. a. Keep the caller engaged in conversation as long as possible. b. Ask questions: Where is the bomb, when will it detonate, why did you place the bomb, what does it look like, what

kind of bomb is it. c. Listen carefully to responses and record callers answers. d. Get as much information as possible. e. While engaged in conversation, if possible, alert another staff member by writing on paper to call police and

emergency management team. f. If the caller is offering information voluntarily, give them every opportunity to do so before asking the next question.

2. Call the Business Office

a. Be prepared to give your name, phone number, and exact location details of the threat b. If you should spot a suspicious object, package, etc., report it to the Business Office; do not move it in anyway.

3. The Business Office, in consultation with the program faculty, will give the order to evacuate the buildings/campus if necessary.

4. At the discretion of the President, neighbors near the college will be notified. XIII. ACTIVE SHOOTER/VIOLENT INDIVIDUAL

The threat of violence is a possibility anywhere, and the suspect can be anyone. There is usually little or no warning before the violence and complete confusion and chaos occur. If you are alerted of an active shooter or violent individual do the following:

If escape is possible:

a. If it is safe to escape from building, do so. b. Seek cover as far away from the threat as possible. c. Keep as many objects between you and the threat as possible. d. Run in zigzag patterns and do not escape in groups, make your self a hard target. e. Once safe, call 911 and give as much information as possible. f. Be mindful of approaching emergency personnel. g. To the police you are a threat until your actions prove otherwise. h. Keep your hands in plane sight and follow directions given by police. i. Police will not stop to talk or take your information; they will proceed forward until there is no longer a threat.

If escape is not possible:

a. Lock and secure your office, classroom, building, or area. b. Once you are secure call 911, and then if possible call the administration office so that others may be warned. c. If you can do so safely allow others to take shelter with you. d. Rescue attempts should only be attempted if they do not endanger the lives of those already in a secure area. e. The violent offender may bang on the door and yell for help like a victim, they will look like everyone else. If there is

any doubt do not open the door. f. Block doors and windows with whatever is available to you. g. Take cover behind anything available to you. h. Occupants should not group together. Remain Spread apart. i. Turn off all radios, speakers, computer monitors, or anything else that would draw the offender’s attention. j. Silence cell phones. k. Remember police will not know whether or not you are a threat. l. Follow all directions from police. m. Do not make sudden moves and keep your hands visible and empty at all times. n. Plan on having guns pointed at you and being searched. o. Remember police will not help the injured or move you until the threat is neutralized. p. Remain calm and stay still until police tell you to move. q. Never endanger your personal safety.

XIV. HOSTILE PERSON

• Remain calm; let the person say what they have to say. • Clear room, fewer people in harms way. • Call 911. • Report to the office of the President, extension 502. • Direct person to administration. • Use voice tones and action to deescalate the situation.

XV. DEATH/HOMICIDE/SUICIDE Determine if the situation warrants evacuation, if so report to emergency management team.

r. Call 911. s. Help the victim if it is safe to do so. t. Give victim room, move those in building/room to another location.

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u. Wait with victim until emergency personnel arrive. v. Document and report to the Office of the President, extension 502.

In case of fatality: Law enforcement official will notify family of fatalities. Accommodations will be made for any person who was disturbed by the events. All media requests are to be sent to the Office of the President.

XVI. HAZARDOUS MATERIAL

B. High Hazmat Incident a. In a high risk HAZMAT incident, with a large spill of potentially toxic, flammable, explosive, or reactive material, the

fire alarm will initiate the evacuation of the building(s). b. Evacuate to a safe area at least 500 feet away from the building. Assist disabled people in evacuation. Instructors

will take roll of students. c. Do not return to the building until you are instructed to do so. d. Call 9-911.

C. Low Hazmat Incident

a. In a low or moderate risk Hazmat incident with an incidental spill of insignificant toxic, flammable, explosive, or reactive material, you will be asked to evacuate the building at the discretion of the instructor/supervisor.

b. Proper authorities will notify you when it is safe to return to the area

D. Internal Gas Leaks a. Notify the Business Office b. Evacuate the building if necessary c. Notify maintenance personnel d. The Business Office and maintenance personnel will determine if the fire department should be notified. e. If necessary, the Business Office and maintenance personnel will notify the proper college officials for a decision to

cancel activities in a building or section of campus.

XVII. EVACUATION • The fire alarm or verbal notification will signal evacuation of the building. • Walk; do not run to the nearest exit. • Identify and assist those people who may need special assistance in evacuating the building. It is suggested that wheelchair

occupants or people with mobility impairment should prepare for emergencies ahead of time by showing other classmates or instructors how to assist in case of emergency. During an emergency, people who need special assistance should move to the nearest exit and ask for assistance from others.

• Once outside the building, move away from the building to a distance of at least 500 feet to allow emergency crews to safely operate.

• Notify the Business Office or emergency crews if you suspect that a person may still be in the building. • Do not return to the evacuated building unless directed to do so by public safety personnel.

XVIII. DISASTER RESOURCES

• Warning/Evacuation o Fire Alarms o Tornado Sirens

• Personnel o Business Office o Maintenance

• Agencies o Police Department o Fire Department o Sherman County EMS o

• Emergency Treatment o Business Office o Sherman County EMS o Fire Department o Police Department

• First-Aid Supplies o All Departments

XIX. SERIOUS INJURY/ILLNESS/ACCIDENT

• Call 911. • Keep safety in mind, and assist the victim if possible.

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• Keep others from crowding around the victim. • When it is safe alert administration. • Document the scenario including actions before, during and after the incident. • Report to the Office of the President, extension 502. • All requests from the media will be directed to the Office of the President.

XX. SHOCK Shock - (A collapse of circulatory function, caused by severe injury, blood loss, or disease) can be deadly. Signs of shock are:

1. Skin is pale and cold to the touch. 2. Skin may be moist and clammy. 3. Victim is weak and may faint. 4. Pulse is rapid (more than 100 beats per minute) and faint. 5. Rate of breathing is increased and shallow. 6. Victim may be restless and complain of thirst. 7. Victim may be nauseated and may vomit.

Keep victim lying down. Elevate feet 12" if there are no signs of head or back injuries. Cover only enough to keep him or her from losing body heat. XXI. SPRAINS & FRACTURES It is usually impossible to tell the difference between a sprain and a closed fracture without an x-ray. Signs include swelling, tenderness, pain from movement, discoloration of the skin, or deformity. Treat for shock and seek medical attention. XXII. OBJECTS IN THE EYE Objects in the eye usually lodge in the inner surface of the eyelid. To remove such an object:

1. Have the victim look down (up if the object is in the lower eyelid). 2. Grasp the edge of the upper lid. 3. Apply slight pressure to the surface of the eyelid with a small, blunt object. 4. Turn the inner surface of the lid outward. 5. If you see the object on the inner surface of the lid, remove it by touching it with the corner of a cloth. Never touch the eyeball.

Never rub the eye as rubbing may cause a loose object to scratch the eye or it may cause an embedded object to do more serious damage. Washing the eye with water, flushing from nose outward for 15 to 30 minutes should treat chemical burns to the eye. Seek professional help as soon as possible. XXIII. BURNS There are three types of burns: first, second, and third degree.

1. A first-degree burn is the reddening of the skin's surface, such as sunburn. Relief can be obtained by applying cool water. 2. Second-degree burns have blisters on the skin. Putting the affected area in cool water until medical help is obtained can treat

these burns. Cover with sterile dressing after treatment. 3. Third-degree burns are much more serious, characterized by charred skin. Gently flush with cool water and cover with sterile

dressing. Medical attention should be sought immediately. Do not put salves or ointments on any burns, and don’t pull away clothing that sticks to burn unless the cloth is still burning.

Using lots of running water to flush chemicals from the skin should treat chemical burns. Keep flushing with water for 15 to 30 minutes. Seek treatment immediately. XXIV. ELECTRICAL BURNS Check for downed power lines and electrical cords. Be sure power source is disconnected. Watch for shock and get help immediately. XV. SEIZURES Seizures are very common occurrences, but they are not completely understood. They may be caused by a temporary problem such as insulin shock, high fever, and viral infections of the brain, head injuries, or drug reactions. Epilepsy seizures usually do not require professional treatment. Protect the victim from injury but do not restrain. Do not place any object between victim's teeth.

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XXVI. EMERGENCY SHELTER AREAS The basement in the student union has been designated as the primary emergency area for all emergencies that require evacuation or a storm shelter. XXVII. SAFETY GLASSES With the passage of Senate Bill #152 concerning the wearing of safety glasses by students and instructors, we must take every precaution possible. The law states that safety glasses will be worn while participating in any of the following courses: Technical or industrial arts shops or laboratories involving experiences with:

1. Hot, molten metals or other molten materials. 2. Milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding, or stamping of any solid materials. 3. Heat treatments, tempering, or kiln firing of any metal or other materials. 4. Gas or electric arc welding, or other forms of welding processes. 5. Repair or servicing of any vehicle. 6. Caustic or explosive materials. 7. Electrical wiring and piping.

The college policy will be that all students and instructors, as well as visitors, will wear an approved set of safety glasses while in the shops. Those students in Automotive Technology, Auto Body (Automotive Collision & Repair), Diesel Technology, Welding, Carpentry and Electrical Technology shall wear safety glasses while working in the shop areas. There will be NO EXCEPTIONS to this rule.

G. FIRST AID First aid is the immediate care given to a person who has been injured or has suddenly become ill. When giving such care, remember four basic rules:

1. Rescue the victim from a life-threatening situation (remove victim from water, fire, poisonous fumes, etc.). 2. Ensure that the victim has an open airway and give rescue breathing if necessary. 3. Control severe bleeding. 4. Treat for shock.

Be careful when transporting a victim. You could cause further injury by improper handling. Move persons in need of first aid only if their position puts them in danger of further injury. Shock and unconsciousness in a victim may result from the rapid loss of blood. Because it is possible to bleed to death very quickly, a person giving first aid should stop any rapid loss of blood immediately and treat for shock. There are four steps for dealing with severe bleeding:

1. Stop the bleeding immediately using direct pressure. 2. Protect the wound from contamination. 3. Provide care for shock. 4. Get medical attention.

Do not attempt to remove any impaled (stuck in the body) object. Make the object immobile and control bleeding with direct pressure around it. Keep the victim as still as possible.

H. DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY In accordance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, 34 CFR Part 85, Subpart F, the Northwest Kansas Technical College, Goodland, Kansas, hereby publishes this policy for the purpose of maintaining a drug free workplace for all employees of said college. It shall be understood by all present and future employees of Northwest Tech that it shall be unlawful for said employees to manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, or use a controlled substance in the workplace of said college. It shall be further understood that if an employee is determined by the courts to be in violation of this policy, specific action shall be taken toward such employee. If an employee is accused by a law officer of violating this drug free workplace policy, said employee may be placed on suspension from employment at the college for a specified time and permanently terminated from employment if convicted of such violation of the act—manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance while on the premises of said workplace. Within thirty (30) days of the date employer receives notice of statute conviction of an employee, action shall be taken, up to and including termination. Dependent upon the severity of the allocation or conviction, the employee may be reinstated to his work position after having attended and completed a drug counseling and rehabilitation program, with such costs or rehabilitation to be born by said employee. I. Tobacco Policy

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Applicability: This policy applies to all Northwest Tech students, employees and visitors with respect to use of Tobacco and Smoke Products. Definitions: “Tobacco and Smoke Products” include, but are not limited to cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, electronic or “E” cigarettes, nicotine or chemical vaporizing devices and other forms of chewing or smoking devices as defined by state and federal law. Tobacco and Smoke Free The College supports a tobacco and smoke-free learning and working environment. Use of Tobacco and Smoke Products is prohibited in any College building or anywhere on College property. Although not encouraged, use of Tobacco and Smoke Products is permitted in the individual’s automobile. However, cigarette butts, smokeless tobacco, nicotine cartridges and/or any other types of Tobacco and Smoke Product waste must be disposed of inside the vehicle. Any violation of this policy shall be dealt with in accordance with student and employee handbook disciplinary proceedings.

J. REPLACEMENT OF HVAC SYSTEMS It will be the policy of the college when purchasing new HVAC systems, total replacement of HVAC systems, or non-brand specific major parts for HVAC systems, to bid such systems or components. This process will exercise appropriate time and speed as necessary to insure safe and comfortable operation of college facilities. Specifications (non-brand specific), will be written when necessary by the HVAC/R program, and delivered to the Vice President for Operations (within 24 hours). The Vice President for Operations will submit the bid request to two or more vendors for consideration of purchase. Bids from vendors will be due within 48 hours and acted upon promptly.

K. TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT REPAIR/REPLACEMENT POLICY Damage to college technology equipment: iPads

• Accidental damage will be repaired/covered by the college one (1) time, provided the IT Dept. is notified in a timely manner and equipment has been turned back in.

• Costs associated with repair and/or replacement for recurring/multiple events will be the burden of faculty/staff. 1. Failure to meet this agreement will result in downgrade (as available) or possible loss of equipment. 2. Agree to purchase and use an "Otter Box" type case, to prevent future damage. Computers/Peripherals

• Damage will be repaired one (1) time by the college. • As damage voids the hardware warranty, faculty/staff will acknowledge the following

1. They will assume the cost to repair any future failures or damage. 2. Expect that cosmetic damage (dents/scratches) will not be fixed.

• Excessive or repeated damage can result in the possible downgrade of equipment and/or loss of personal equipment.

L. LIMITED WARRANTY TO EMPLOYERS INTRODUCTION Northwest Tech, Goodland, KS, was established in 1964 to assist individuals in acquiring basic job entry skills required in specific occupational training programs. During the past two decades, the college has earned the reputation of graduating students with skills, knowledge, and the ability to succeed in the world of work. The Area Board of Control, the administration, and the instructional staff of Northwest Tech wish to provide a limited warranty with respect to the skills and knowledge that each graduating student has acquired in completing any one of the present technical programs. By this Limited Warranty, the college is warranting the graduated student's skills and knowledge up to one year after the date of the student's graduation from Northwest Tech. I. WARRANTY CONDITIONS This limited warranty strictly goes to retraining. The employer must hire the graduate within one year after the date the student successfully completes the requirements of a technical certificate or degree from one of the programs at Northwest Tech. The employer shall be given the opportunity to send an employed graduate back to Northwest Tech to receive additional training in a specific unit of instruction, which the graduate is not able to perform at a job-entry level. If an employer determines that a graduate is not able to perform at entry level, he or she shall immediately notify the college's administration, and it will be up to the instructor, the employer, and the student to determine what jobs he or she does not perform at an entry level and how to provide retraining or additional training so that the students may perform the job. The arrangement for retraining must be agreed upon by the employed graduate, the employer, and the college. These three parties will also agree upon the specific instructions to be given and the length of time to be allocated for that training. The college is accountable for the evaluations, which are given to the student while completing the various units within the instructional program for which the student was originally trained. For example, if a student given an evaluation of "average" in a particular job performance the skill area is later judged not to possess average job entry skills and knowledge in that unit area, the college will accept the responsibility only for retraining of that graduate to average job entry skills and knowledge. The college does not accept any responsibility for any inferior work that said student might do while on the job. It is the position of Northwest Tech that all students when first performing job entry-level work will be under the supervision of their employer. There will be no charge for tuition or fees to either

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the graduate or the employer for retraining pursuant to this limited warranty. Any costs incurred by the student (such as room, board, and personal expenses, etc.) will be the responsibility of the returning student. II. ETHICAL STANDARDS IN CONTRACTING POLICY Northwest Tech expects contractual partners to have high ethical standards and operate legally and professionally. The college takes responsibility for the ethical and responsible behavior of its contractual partners in relation to actions taken on the institution’s behalf. No contractual partner may engage in activities detrimental to the college, including HLC criterion. This includes school districts, other colleges, state agencies, federal agencies, vendors or other contractual partners. Northwest Tech documents outsourcing of all services in written agreements, including agreements with parent or affiliated organizations. No individual has authority to enter into contracts, leases, agreements, or in any other way obligate Northwest Tech for procurement or contractual indebtedness unless specifically authorized to do so by the Area Board of Control. The power to enter into contracts, leases and/or agreements on behalf of the college is vested in the board. No contract, lease, or agreement shall be made which names the college as a party, unless authorized by the board and signed by the president or designee. All contracts, leases, and agreements that name the college as a party shall be reviewed by the director of purchasing or his/her designee prior to the contract, lease, or agreement being finalized. As such, no individual has the authority to enter into purchase contracts, leases, or agreements without this authorization and review. Any such purchases or commitments are considered unauthorized and become a personal obligation to the vendor by the individual making the purchase or entering into the agreement.

M. CONFLICT OF INTEREST All Area Board of Control and Administrative personnel of Northwest Kansas Technical College shall disclose all real or apparent conflict of interest that they discover or that have been brought to their attention in connection with this organization’s activities. A “conflict of interest” occurs where a person is responsible for promoting the interest of the college at the same time he or she is involved in a competing personal interest (financial, business or personal).

An individual member who believes that he or she or an immediate member of his or her immediate family might have a real or apparent conflict of interest, in addition to filing a notice of disclosure, must abstain from:

(1) Participating in discussions or deliberations with respect to the subject of the conflict (other than to present factual information or to answer questions),

(2) Using his or her personal influence to affect deliberations,

(3) Making motions,

(4) Voting,

(5) Executing agreements, or

(6) Taking similar actions on behalf of the organizations where the conflict of interest might pertain by law, agreement, or otherwise.

At the discretion of the governing body or a committee thereof, a person with a real or apparent conflict of interest may be excused from all or any portion of discussion or deliberations with respect to the subject of the conflict.

A member of the governing body or a committee thereof, who, having disclosed a conflict of interest, nevertheless shall be counted in determining the existence of a quorum at any meeting in which the subject of the conflict is discussed. The minutes of the meeting shall reflect the individual’s disclosure, the vote thereon, and the individual’s abstention from participation and voting.

The College president shall ensure that all board members or Administrative personnel and independent contractors of the organization are made aware of the organization’s policy with respect to conflicts of interest.

N. DISCLAIMER Information within this handbook was prepared as correctly and accurately as possible at the time of printing. This does not constitute a contract between Northwest Tech and any person. Further, this college reserves the right to make changes in the content of this booklet without obligation or requirement of notice to any person. This document was last revised July 2018.