Disruptive Behavior
A student’s behavior may be of such an extreme nature that it causes disruptions in the classroom, residence halls, or the campus community at-large. In such instances, restoration will be sought to bring about an appropriate resolution beneficial to the individual and community. There may be times when the college setting cannot provide a reasonable and healthful solution. In such cases, when a student will not make required behavioral changes, further disciplinary action may be taken.
Furthermore, any intentional act or threat, involving an imbalance of power and strength, that imposes emotional trauma, intimidation, or physical harm to another person is considered bullying and is prohibited. Bullying is usually a pattern of behavior repeated over time, but may also include one-time incidents. Bullying can take on various forms, including:
- Physical bullying – when one person engages in physical force against another person, such as hitting, punching, pushing, kicking, pinching, or restraining.
- Verbal bullying – when someone uses their words to hurt another, such as belittling or name calling.
- Nonverbal bullying – which may include intimidating gestures or other aggressive non-verbal communication.
- Relational bullying – when one person manipulates a relationship or desired relationship to harm another person. This includes social exclusion, friendship manipulation, or gossip.
- Cyberbullying – the intentional and overt act of aggression toward another person by way of any technological tool, such as email, text messages, pictures or social media.
- Hazing – an activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers that person regardless of his or her willingness to participate.
Anyone who sees an act of bullying, and encourages it, is engaging in bullying.
Such behavior is regarded as a safety risk, not only for the individuals involved but also for the entire campus community, and will not be tolerated. Anyone who feels he or she is being subjected to this type of behavior is encouraged to report it to the Office of Student Affairs or to the Public Safety Office and the College will take prompt action.