Office of Student Conduct

This letter is a notice that our office was informed about an alleged violation of the Code of Conduct. Once you read your letter, please contact us at studentconduct@tsc.fl.edu or (850) 201-8477 to confirm your availability.

An information session is a time for you to meet with a representative from the Department of Student Conduct to:

1. Review the materials that were submitted to our office.
2. Review your rights as a student.
3. Have the student conduct process explained to you.
4. Select a hearing body to have your case resolved, unless the hearing body is pre-selected.
5. Have an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

The university has an interest in maintaining a safe community and appropriate standards of conduct for its students. This includes both on-campus and off-campus behavior, which can have an impact on the university community and the university mission.

The Office of Student Conduct may place a hold on your college records and registration if you have an outstanding case. This may mean that you have been charged with an alleged violation of the Student Conduct Code but have not responded to our office to initiate the process, that you have not picked up your decision letter, that you have a prior criminal background, or that you have incomplete sanctions. While these are the most common reasons for disciplinary holds, there are various other reasons a hold can be placed on a student’s account. Your hold will not be lifted until you contact our office and resolve the situation.

Students must abide by the Student Handbook and the Code of Conduct at Tallahassee State College. If a report has been received by the Office of Student Conduct stating that you allegedly violated the Student Conduct Code, the matter will need to be addressed. The conduct process allows us to address the allegation. Remember, cases are not decided before they are heard. The hearing allows you to present your side of the story and respond to the charges.

Each case is treated individually; therefore, sanctions will vary from case to case. Sanctioning is to educate students while holding them accountable for policies and decision-making. Sanctions are determined based on the severity of the charge(s), student conduct history (if any), developmental needs, and the Student Conduct Code.

Witnesses are called to provide testimony regarding student disciplinary cases. Individuals called as witnesses will be asked to briefly describe their involvement in the situation. They may be asked questions by both the hearing officer and the charged student. Individuals serving as witnesses are vital to a thorough and fair hearing process for all parties involved. Due to the nature of the hearing procedures, witnesses may be required to attend the hearing for a lengthy period of time. This will depend on the number of people involved and the extent of information available.

Submit an incident report of the incident and include your name, the full name of the student who is allegedly involved, and any witnesses to the incident (if necessary). Also include the date, time, and location along with specific details of the event, including direct observations and quotes.

The Office of Student Conduct will review the report to decide whether or not Student Conduct Code violations are involved. If so, the student will be sent a Student Conduct Charge letter addressing the Student Conduct code violations and will be notified on how to proceed. The Office of Student Conduct might also contact the faculty or staff member who reported the incident to ask questions about the incident and to clarify information.

When submitting the incident report, ensure that you include at the beginning or end of the report that it is an FYI and that you are submitting this for our information only and not disciplinary measures.

Our office cannot provide information unless the student grants authorization, or unless the information is provided to a victim of endangerment, harassment, or sexual misconduct. There may also be instances when the staff or faculty member is in a “need to know” position, and the information can be conveyed. For example, if a student has been suspended from the college as a result of the sanction for a violation, then the Academic Dean and the student’s instructors would be notified. All Student Conduct matters are educational records and are protected under FERPA.

What is the Eagles Report?

• The Eagles Report is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to promoting the safety and well-being of the campus community. It focuses on identifying, assessing, and responding to concerning behaviors exhibited by students that may pose a risk to themselves or others. We work proactively to provide support and resources, aiming to prevent crises before they escalate.

Why was the Eagles Report created?

• The Eagles Report was established to create a coordinated and proactive approach to addressing behaviors of concern. It ensures that students in distress receive timely support and that the campus community remains safe.

What kind of behaviors should I report to the Eagles Report?

• You should report any behavior that causes you concern for a student's well-being or the safety of others. This can include, but is not limited to:
• Significant changes in behavior, mood, or academic performance.
• Expressions of suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
• Threatening or aggressive behavior (verbal or physical).
• Social isolation or withdrawal.
• Inappropriate or disruptive behavior in class or on campus.
• Paranoia or delusional thinking.
• Excessive absences or disengagement.
• Concerns about substance abuse.
• Any behavior that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Is the Eagles Report a disciplinary body?

• No, the Eagles Report is not a disciplinary body. Its primary focus is on support, intervention, and connecting students with appropriate resources. While some behaviors may also be a violation of the student code of conduct, the BIT's role is distinct and focuses on well-being and safety.

What is the difference between reporting to the Eagles Report and calling Campus Police/911?

• If there is an immediate threat of harm to self or others, or an emergency situation, call Campus Police (or 911) immediately. The Eagles Report addresses concerning behaviors that may not be an immediate emergency but warrant intervention and support. The Eagles Report can consult with Campus Police as needed.

Is my report confidential?

• While the Eagles Report strives to maintain privacy and discretion, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. The team will share information on a "need-to-know" basis to effectively assess and respond to the concern. It's important to remember that the safety of the individual and the community is the top priority.

Can I submit a report anonymously?

•  Yes, you can submit an anonymous report. However, providing your contact information is strongly encouraged as it allows the Eagles Report to gather more information if needed, which can be crucial for an effective response.

What happens after I submit a report?

• Once a report is submitted, an Eagles Report member will review it. Depending on the nature of the concern, the team may:
• Gather more information.
• Consult with relevant campus departments.
• Reach out to the student to offer support and resources.
• Develop an intervention plan.
• Refer the student to counseling, health services, academic support, or other appropriate resources.
• In some cases, no action may be taken if the behavior is deemed not to pose a significant risk.

Will I be informed of the outcome of my report?

• Due to privacy regulations (like FERPA), the BIT may not be able to share specific details about the outcome of a student's case. However, the team will generally acknowledge receipt of your report and may follow up if more information is needed or to let you know that the concern is being addressed.

Where can I find the Eagles Report referral form?

• Access the Eagles Report here

I'm concerned about a friend. Can I report them to the Eagles Report?

• Yes, absolutely. If you're worried about a friend's behavior or well-being, reporting to the Eagles Report is a caring way to get them the support they might need.

What if I'm the one struggling? Can I reach out to the Eagles Report for help?

• While the Eagles Report primarily receives reports from others, if you are struggling and need support, you are encouraged to reach out directly to the Dean of Students Office, Counseling Services, or Health Services. They can connect you with resources and support.

Will my parents be notified if I'm referred to the Eagles Report?

• The university respects student privacy. However, in situations where there is a significant health or safety concern, or if a student is under 18, parental notification may be necessary in accordance with university policy and applicable laws.

Should I try to address the student directly first?

• Whenever possible and if you feel safe doing so, it can be beneficial to express your concern directly to the student. Often, a student may be receptive to your concern and guidance. However, if you have any safety concerns or feel the situation is escalating, it's best to report to the Eagles Report immediately.

What if I'm not sure if a behavior warrants an Eagles Report?

• When in doubt, report. The Eagles Report is designed to assess the level of risk. Even seemingly minor concerns, when combined with other observations, can help the Eagles Report get a complete picture. It's better to err on the side of caution. You can also consult with the Dean of Students' Office for advice.

How does the Eagles Report support classroom management?

• The Eagles Report can assist with behaviors that disrupt the learning environment or impact student success. By intervening with students experiencing distress, the Eagles Report helps create a more positive and productive academic atmosphere for everyone.

What information is most helpful to include in an Eagles Report?

• Be as specific and objective as possible. Include:
  • Who: The student's name, ID (if known), and any other individuals involved.
  • What: A factual description of the concerning behavior, including direct quotes if applicable.
  • When: The date and time of the incident(s).
  • Where: The location where the behavior occurred.
  • Why (your concern): Explain why the behavior is concerning to you (e.g., "I'm worried about their safety," "It's disrupting the class").
  • Your previous actions: If you've already tried to intervene or speak with the student, describe what happened.