Issue link: https://resources.twc.edu/i/1498874
26 The Washington Center • Code of Conduct Last update February 2023 IX. Participant Rights Dissemination of Student Record Information The Washington Center follows the guidelines associated with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) in reference to the rights and privacy of TWC participants. In order to share information with other individuals, TWC requires participants to permit the organization to do so. In the event of an emergency situation, the Office of Housing and Community Life will make an informed decision on contacting emergency contacts with information based on individual situations. Good Samaritan Provision The health and safety of The Washington Center participants is of the highest priority. At times, participants may need immediate medical or other professional assistance. However, participants may be reluctant to get help because of concerns that their own behavior may be a violation of the Code of Conduct. To minimize any hesitation participants may have in obtaining help due to these concerns, TWC has enacted the following "Good Samaritan" provision. Although policy violations cannot be overlooked, TWC will consider the positive impact of reporting an incident when determining the appropriate response for policy violations. In such cases, any possible negative consequences for the reporter of the problem should be evaluated against the possible negative consequences for the participant needing assistance. At a minimum, participants should make an anonymous report that would put the individual in need in touch with Housing and Community Life Staff. Grievances If a participant has an issue with any TWC staff member or process, a grievance may be filed to initiate an investigation and follow-up on the concern. • Pre-Arrival Internship Placement interviewing grievances related to discrimination and/or harassment is to be reported to the student's Pre-Arrival Advisor. • Grievances related to orientation, housing, student activities, disability accommodations, or community programs/events may be submitted in writing to the Office of Housing & Community Life at conduct@twc.edu. • Academic course grievances, issues with course instructors or faculty, or concerns about the course material, class format, etc. may be submitted in writing to courses at courses@twc.edu • Program grievances may be filed with the Student Conduct and Case Management Administrator at programs@twc.edu. Notification of Conduct Violations TWC support staff will be notified of the outcome any documented conduct process involving a student via e- mail. These staff members include, but are not limited to, the appropriate program staff, the Alumni in Residence, the Manager of Community Life, the Assistant Director of Housing and Community Life, the Director of Housing and Community Life, the Vice President of Student Affairs, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Career Readiness, Vice President of Customized and Federal Initiatives, the Chief Academic Officer, and the Chief Operations Officer.