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Little Priest Tribal College “Upholding Tradition, Educating for Tomorrow” Faculty Handbook 1 | Page Approved by BOT, Oct ____ 2012 Reviewed Sept. 2012

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Page 1: Little Priest Tribal College Faculty Handbook · Web viewLittle Priest Tribal College does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, national or ethnic origin, military

Little Priest Tribal College“Upholding Tradition, Educating for

Tomorrow”

Faculty Handbook

1 | P a g eApproved by BOT, Oct ____ 2012 Reviewed Sept. 2012

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ContentsInstructional Forms......................................................................................................................................5

Preface........................................................................................................................................................8

Amendments...............................................................................................................................................8

Introduction................................................................................................................................................9

The College..................................................................................................................................................9

Statement of Nondiscrimination..................................................................................................................9

Mission Statement.......................................................................................................................................9

Philosophy.................................................................................................................................................10

Institutional Aspirations.............................................................................................................................10

Board of Trustees.......................................................................................................................................10

Academic Year...........................................................................................................................................10

Administrative Divisions...........................................................................................................................11

Administration...........................................................................................................................................11

Student Support Services...........................................................................................................................11

Academics.................................................................................................................................................12

Registrar’s Office.......................................................................................................................................12

Information Technology (IT)......................................................................................................................12

Library Services..........................................................................................................................................12

LPTC Faculty..............................................................................................................................................13

Definition of Faculty...................................................................................................................................13

Faculty Credentials....................................................................................................................................13

Faculty Duties............................................................................................................................................14

Faculty Absence from Class.......................................................................................................................16

Faculty Late Arrival....................................................................................................................................16

Part-Time Faculty (a.k.a. Adjunct).............................................................................................................16

Faculty Contracts.......................................................................................................................................17

Rights and Obligations...............................................................................................................................18

Academic Freedom Policy..........................................................................................................................19

Compensation............................................................................................................................................19

Release Time..............................................................................................................................................20

Graduate Education...................................................................................................................................20

Outside Employment.................................................................................................................................20

Full-Time Faculty Work Week....................................................................................................................21

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Office Hours...............................................................................................................................................21

Leave.........................................................................................................................................................22

Faculty Parental Leave...........................................................................................................................23

Faculty Catastrophic Illness....................................................................................................................23

Jury Duty....................................................................................................................................................24

Faculty Attire.............................................................................................................................................24

Resignations..............................................................................................................................................24

Faculty Performance & Development......................................................................................................25

Faculty Performance Evaluation................................................................................................................25

Individual Goals, Objectives & Activities................................................................................................25

Peer Observation...................................................................................................................................25

Self-Evaluation......................................................................................................................................25

Student Class Evaluations......................................................................................................................26

Performance Evaluation Session...........................................................................................................26

Faculty Professional Development.............................................................................................................27

Faculty Library Privileges and Services.......................................................................................................27

Faculty Library Responsibilities..................................................................................................................28

Faculty Research Policy..............................................................................................................................28

Faculty Service on Committees.................................................................................................................29

Hirukana Haksi..........................................................................................................................................29

Howera......................................................................................................................................................29

Horuxuruk Wagus......................................................................................................................................30

Ho’upi Hocira.............................................................................................................................................30

Assessment of Academic Learning...........................................................................................................30

Outcomes..................................................................................................................................................31

Academic Outcome Review.......................................................................................................................31

Academic Program Review........................................................................................................................32

New Curriculum Process............................................................................................................................32

Faculty Reports..........................................................................................................................................33

Course Incformation.................................................................................................................................34

Course Syllabi............................................................................................................................................34

Course Assessment....................................................................................................................................35

Class Schedules..........................................................................................................................................36

Cancellation of Classes..............................................................................................................................36

Field Trips..................................................................................................................................................36

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Guest Speakers..........................................................................................................................................37

Testing.......................................................................................................................................................37

Placement Testing.....................................................................................................................................37

Final Examinations.....................................................................................................................................38

Graduation Assessment.............................................................................................................................38

Inclement Weather....................................................................................................................................38

Student Attendance Policy........................................................................................................................39

Student Conduct and Discipline.................................................................................................................40

Class Rosters..............................................................................................................................................40

Student Retention.....................................................................................................................................41

Classroom Breaks......................................................................................................................................41

Student Privacy and Release of Information.............................................................................................41

Academic Policies.....................................................................................................................................42

Grading System.........................................................................................................................................42

Incomplete Policy......................................................................................................................................44

Grade Change............................................................................................................................................45

Mid-Term Grades......................................................................................................................................45

Progress Grades.........................................................................................................................................45

Auditing Courses........................................................................................................................................45

Changing a Course Schedule......................................................................................................................46

Withdrawal From Class..............................................................................................................................46

Withdrawal From College..........................................................................................................................46

Repeating Courses.....................................................................................................................................47

Independent Study....................................................................................................................................47

Cell Phone Use...........................................................................................................................................47

Administrative Procedures.......................................................................................................................48

Orientation................................................................................................................................................48

Jenzabar....................................................................................................................................................48

Communication.........................................................................................................................................48

E-Mail & Internet Use................................................................................................................................48

Faculty Business Cards...............................................................................................................................49

Textbooks, Materials, and Teaching Supplies............................................................................................49

Office Supplies and Equipment..................................................................................................................49

Copying......................................................................................................................................................49

Copyright Law............................................................................................................................................50

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Plagiarism and Academic Integrity............................................................................................................50

Family and Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)...............................................................................50

Drug Free Workplace.................................................................................................................................51

Work Environment Misconduct.................................................................................................................52

Sexual Harassment....................................................................................................................................53

Proibited Activities....................................................................................................................................53

Harassment by Non-employees.................................................................................................................53

Disciplinary Action.....................................................................................................................................53

Instructional FormsAll forms required for advising, evaluation of instructors, curriculum changes and additions and

teaching purposes are maintained digitally in the Instructional Forms folder on the network

drive. Throughout this handbook, forms from the Instructional Forms folder will be referred to

by title and the subfolder in which they can be found. For example: New Course Proposal. (See

Curriculum folder) The file includes an index of forms and identifies the folder where a given

form can be found, plus instructions on filling out specific forms.

Instructional FormsAdvising Forms

Change of Major

College algebra Course Waiver

College Success Substitution for credits

College Success Waiver for transfer

Course Overload

Course Requirement Substitution/Waiver Request

GED Transcript Request

Graduation Application

Health & Fitness Substitution for credits

Name Change

Transcript Release

Transcript Request

Transcript Credit Review

Update of Student Information

Curriculum Forms

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Course Change Proposal

Inactivate Course

Inactivate Program of Study

New Course Proposal

New Program of Study Proposal

Program of Study Curriculum Change

Program Review Report Template

Special Topics or Workshop Proposal

Instructor Evaluation Forms

Faculty Performance Evaluation Document

Peer Observation Form

Peer Observation Summary

Observer's Evaluation

Professional Enhancement Plan

Instructor Forms

Change of Major

Class Field Trip Form

Course Withdrawal

Drop Add

Four Column Course Assessment

Incomplete Grade Contract

Independent Study Contract

Library Reserve Form

Monthly Report

Snapshot

Student Progress Report

Student Withdrawal Form

Syllabus Outline

Textbook Order Form

Policies

Academic Success Plan

Attendance Policy

Computer & Internet Use Policy

Placement Policy

SAP Policy

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Procedures

Class Field Trips Procedure

Completing Incomplete Grade Contract

Course Change Proposal Procedure

Course Requirement Substitution/Waiver Request Procedure

Faculty Service on Committees

Four column Assessment Instructions

Inactivate a Course or Program Procedure

New Course Proposal Instructions

New Program Proposal Procedure

Program of Study Course change Procedure

Special Topics and Workshop Proposal Procedure

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Preface

The Little Priest Tribal College Faculty Handbook shall initially be approved by Howera (Curriculum & Instruction Committee), and then submitted to the president and Board of Trustees for review and approval.

Amendments

Amendments to the handbook may be initiated or proposed during Howera meetings. Amendments recommended by the committee will be submitted to the President for review and if she/he approves they will be submitted to the BOT for consideration. Amendments will be inserted into the online edition of the faculty handbook by the President's office upon publication of relevant BOT minutes. Adverse Howera decisions can be appealed to the academic dean, and then to the president.

Instructional Forms referred to in this handbook, primarily forms and procedures, can be changed by the president, academic dean and/or Howera.

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IntroductionThe purpose of the Little Priest Tribal College (LPTC) Faculty Handbook is to provide easy access

to information about roles and expectations for faculty members. It can serve as a quick

reference guide for information most significant to faculty members. It meshes with the policies

and procedures in the LPTC Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual and LPTC Course

Catalog. Faculty should familiarize themselves with all three documents. Institutional forms

relevant to faculty in their roles as instructors and advisors can be found digitally on the LPTC

website. This Faculty Handbook is reviewed and updated annually by the academic dean.

The CollegeLittle Priest Tribal College (LPTC) is chartered by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. LPTC serves

a student body comprised of 51% or more Native American students. It is recognized as a tribal

college under Public Law 94-471. It also is a Land Grant Higher Education Institution as

stipulated under the U. S. congressional legislation, “Improving America’s Schools Act of 1994,

Title V, Part C.” The college has an open admission policy and strives to serve students on the

Winnebago and Omaha Indian Reservations and surrounding communities.

Statement of NondiscriminationLittle Priest Tribal College does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, national

or ethnic origin, military or veteran status, political affiliation, marital or family status, age or

disability. This policy of nondiscrimination applies to educational programs, admissions policies,

employment policies, financial aid, and other college administered programs and activities. It is

the intent of LPTC to comply with both the letter and the spirit of the law in order to insure that

discrimination does not exist in its policies, regulations, or operations.

Mission StatementLittle Priest Tribal College is established as the educational institution by the Winnebago Tribe

of Nebraska to fulfill the goal of its namesake, Chief Little Priest, “Be strong and educate my

children.”

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PhilosophyIn the Winnebago heritage of respect, integrity, and self-reliance, Little Priest Tribal College is

chartered by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, a sovereign nation, to provide higher education

opportunities. The college will prepare its students to succeed in a multi-cultural world by

emphasizing quality education of the highest level, humanistic values, and life skills.

Institutional Aspirations

1. Students will increase their knowledge of the HoChunk culture, history and language.2. Students will broaden their knowledge of the world and be able to communicate

effectively in various cultural and social contexts.3. Students will be able to think critically about their community and society.4. Students will develop interpersonal skills and leadership qualities that will allow them to

work with and for their peers, their tribe and their community.5. Students will value the significance of service to their family, tribe and community.

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees (BOT) is made up of five members who represent the Winnebago Tribe.

Members serve staggered terms and are appointed by the Winnebago Tribal Council. The BOT

is the policy making body for the college.

Academic Year

The college operates throughout the calendar year. The academic year is made up of fall and

spring semesters and a summer session. Student and faculty orientations are held in August

and January. Classes typically begin mid-August and mid-January. Each semester lasts fifteen

(15) weeks. Summer sessions will be offered depending upon the demand for classes and

available resources. The academic year calendar is approved by the Board of Trustees and

published in the college catalog.

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Administrative DivisionsThe college president is the chief administrative officer. The academic dean reports to the president and supervises the academic division.

Administration The president provides leadership to the administrative division. As the Chief Executive Officer

of the college, he or she is responsible for the daily oversight of the fiscal and operational

functions of the college. He or she also is responsible for meeting the goals of the Strategic Plan

and ensuring that the college meets all accreditation criteria of the Higher Learning Commission

(HLC), a component of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

There are four standing committees that help govern the activities of the college:

Hirukana Haksi (Gathering of Leaders, AKA Executive Council), Horuxuruk Wagus (Ability to Make &

Create, AKA Student Success Committee), Ho’upi Hocira (House of Possibilities, AKA Institutional

Development Committee), and Howera (The Path, AKA Curriculum and Instruction Committee).the

faculty and staff serve on one or two committees providing a fully shared government for LPTC. As

a group they are part of the institutional organization chart and report to the president, who

reports to the BOT. The committees meet bi-monthly. Agendas and minutes are required for

each meeting and are filed and archived in the resource room and posted on the web. All

employees, except faculty, are REQUIRED to sit on ONE committee. No employee can sit on

more than TWO committees. Faculty are required to sit on two committees. All full-time faculty

must serve on Howera plus one other committee. The four Student Senate officers are assigned

to one of the four committees and are required to attend as part of the duty of their office.

They are exempt from functions that might pose a conflict of interest, for example, the

awarding of scholarships.

Student Support Services Student Support Services is one of the first points of contact for prospective students. It is

responsible for the admissions of students and the well-being and support of the students.

Services provided include placement testing, assisting faculty with academic advising, tutoring,

career and general counseling, Student Senate support, student activities, retention and

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recruitment.

AcademicsThe academic dean is the chief academic officer and reports to the president. The dean is

responsible for academic policy, curriculum, quality instruction, faculty performance evaluation,

professional development, and faculty orientation. It is a priority to assure high quality,

meaningful, academic programs of study leading to associate degrees. The academic division

includes full-time and adjunct faculty members.

Registrar OfficeThe registrar office is responsible for maintaining student records in concert with Student

Support Services. The registrar office maintains the students’ academic file, records and

maintains official grades and transcripts. The registrar audits final programs of study in

preparation for student graduation.

Information Technology (IT) The Information Technology department is responsible for the technological infrastructure

throughout campus including all hardware and software needs.

Library ServicesThe library is an essential resource for students and instructors. The LPTC Library strives to be

the central access-to-information center for the college and the community. It also strives to

ensure that LPTC students, faculty, staff, and public library patrons have access to library

holdings. The library is an active partner in the education process at all levels of lifelong

learning. It collects items of local history and provides informational support for various tribal

and community entities and programs. The library also seeks to build partnerships to identify

and acquire access to library resources in area and regional libraries. It provides materials with

cultural relevancy to the Native and non-Native cultures represented in the community. The

northeast woodland culture group, especially the Winnebago or HoChunk people, is the area of

highest priority.

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LPTC FacultyThe faculty members make up the very essence of the college. They embody the curriculum and

knowledge that the college is responsible for transmitting to the students. The faculty has a

significant role in the governance of the college in the areas of general academic policies,

faculty rules and procedures, requirements for graduation, and honors and scholastic

performance. The majority of decisions and recommendations involving curriculum and

academic issues are made through Howera, which includes all full-time faculty members. Those

decisions and recommendations are forwarded to the academic dean and then to the

president.

Definition of FacultyPersonnel who spend a majority of their time devoted to instruction, curriculum development,

and advising in support of these roles are classified as faculty. Faculty members generally do

not earn over-time compensation, as hours are variable with core hours established to provide

students, the community, professional colleagues, and other personnel access to the faculty.

Master’s degrees are desired for all full-time positions with doctorates or terminal degrees

preferred. Faculty members report to the academic dean.

Faculty CredentialsTo assure academic excellence, LPTC is committed to maintaining a qualified faculty to (1)

determine curricular content, (2) teach effectively, (3) assess student learning, (4) make

appropriate revisions in instructional strategies and curriculum to improve student-learning

outcomes and (5) assess courses and programs according to LPTC’s Assessment Plan. The

primary job of instructors1 is to teach. They facilitate meaningful learning of the course

competencies as stated in the curriculum and actively support all aspects of the learning

environment. It is expected that faculty members provide instruction through a learning-

centered philosophy that will enable graduates to meet the job market needs of their

respective disciplines. Instructors must integrate the world view of the HoChunk People into

their curriculum and encourage learning that values different cultural perspectives. The college

1 There is no rank other than instructor

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also encourages the incorporation of values including mutual responsibility and respect, life-

long learning, and high personal and professional ethical standards. The credential

requirements for LPTC faculty are consistent with the expectations of the Higher Learning

Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The HLC guidance

on qualified faculty states that:

“Faculty teaching in undergraduate programs should hold a degree at least one level

above that of the program in which they are teaching, and those teaching general

education courses typically hold a Master’s degree or higher and should have completed

substantial graduate coursework in the discipline of those courses.” LPTC attempts to adhere to this HLC guidance and deviates only in cases where the academic

dean and/or president have reviewed faculty qualifications and determine that the individual in

question has the ability and knowledge requisite to understand the discipline they are teaching

in, and have sufficient preparation to know what and how much students need to learn in a

particular course.

Cultural expertise faculty do not need to meet a degree requirement but must be recognized

and acknowledged as an expert in their area of expertise by tribal members who are generally

recognized for their cultural and linguistic knowledge and abilities.

Faculty DutiesGenerally the instructor’s duties include teaching a full load (12-15 hours for full-time faculty,

see more detail under Faculty Contracts, page 14), serving on two campus committees,

performing academic assessment activities, and reviewing and revising curriculum as necessary.

More specifically, instructors will:

Maintain a classroom environment conducive to learning and encourage students to

fully engage in the learning process.

Provide competency-based education which aligns with the LPTC model of curricula.

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Design and deliver instruction through the development of instructional plans to meet

course competencies, and develop activities which support lesson objectives.

Deliver learning-centered instruction that fosters student involvement through effective

planning and preparation for classes.

Promote student success by showing flexibility in teaching style and work schedule and

exhibit a passion for teaching and for students.

Actively seek to incorporate the cultural worldviews of the Winnebago people, which

requires instructors to acquire knowledge of the Winnebago language and culture.

Manage the learning environment through accurate recordkeeping, submission of

grades and other reports on time; enforce college academic and attendance policies.

Contribute to a learning culture by participating on Howera and one other committee (a

total of two committees); support campus events such as orientation and graduation,

and participate in various other workshops and meetings.

Assess learning outcomes through the college-wide assessment plan and classroom

evaluation of instruction, modifying instruction as needed to improve learning.

Serve as a program academic advisor to all students assigned. Inform students about

requirements of program of study, course transferability, and job opportunities in the

field. Counsel students regarding semester class scheduling.

Relate professional life and industry/business experience to learning by the continuation

of professional and technical skills development and by introducing those perspectives

into courses.

Demonstrate commonly accepted standards of professionalism and ethical behavior.

Participate in interviewing and selection committees for new faculty and staff members.

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It is expected that, unless excused by the academic dean, all full-time faculty will attend

regularly scheduled faculty meetings. Adjunct faculty are not required to attend faculty

meetings, but may do so if they so desire.

Off-campus adjunct faculty are required to attend faculty orientation at the start of each

semester.

Faculty Absence from Class Unless ill or away from Little Priest Tribal College on an authorized absence, faculty members

will instruct all classes at the scheduled times including scheduled final examination meetings.

If, for any reason a class session is cancelled, a makeup session must be held. Anticipated

absences from the campus for full-time faculty and adjuncts must be cleared with the

academic dean prior to the absence. When an instructor is unable to meet their scheduled

classes due to unforeseen circumstances, they must contact the academic dean as soon as

possible so that students may be notified.

If a class is cancelled for any reason, the faculty member must provide written confirmation of

rescheduled class time(s) and date(s) or an alternative assignment must be documented and

approved by the academic dean. If there is access to a qualified replacement to instruct the

class in the instructor’s absence, that is an allowable option, but the academic dean must be

notified of the replacement instructor and his/her credentials. Note, the college cannot

provide payment for his or her services. Class make-up session date is to be selected through

student consensus. The possible options of eliminating breaks or adding on extra minutes to

the remaining class sessions may not be possible nor promote positive learning experiences

for LPTC students.

Faculty Late ArrivalInstructors are expected to model timely behavior and punctuality. Instructors are expected to

be in the class ready to begin at the appointed class time. In an emergency situation, instructors

are to call the academic dean so students can be notified in a timely manner. If faculty

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members are 30 minutes late without advance notification, the class will have to be made up.

Part-Time Faculty (a.k.a. Adjunct)Adjunct faculty members may teach no more than nine (9) semester credit hours. It is

important for adjunct instructors to be accessible to students by either coming early to class or

staying after class to meet with students. Access can also be secured through telephone contact

and e-mail. A common room for all adjuncts is provided in the Elk Clan Building room 109.

Faculty ContractsFull-time faculty members are provided with contracts for employment on a ten month basis,

usually the start of the fall semester through graduation which is typically before the first

weekend in June. The teaching load for full-time faculty is typically 12-15 hours per semester.

An overload (16+ hours) is paid at the adjunct rate at the end of the semester when grades

have been submitted. There is a maximum of one overload for an instructor in any given

semester. Any faculty teaching in a learning community (LC) would be able to count all credit

hours of the LC in their total load for the semester. Note that there is no additional

compensation for classes offered in the evening, as all classes, regardless of the time offered,

are included in the credit load. There is also no additional compensation for classes offered

through the distance learning program or off-campus, as all classes regardless of delivery mode

or place are included in the credit load. A full-time instructor teaching an independent study

course will not receive any extra pay as the course will be part of their total course load. An

independent study course cannot give an instructor an overload.

There may be situations in which full-time faculty may teach fewer hours than a full-time load

while assigned to special projects, research or grant development and management. Those

instances will be reviewed on an individual basis and must be approved by the academic dean

and the president. Separate contracts will be made for summer teaching loads.

Adjuncts are contracted on a semester basis and paid per credit hour of load. If a full-time LPTC

employee teaches one or more courses during regular business hours, she/he must make up

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the time so she/he works a minimum of 40 hours/week. She/he may choose not to be paid

extra for his/her class and can include his/her class time – up to one class per semester - as part

of his/her 40 hour work week. A part-time instructor teaching an independent study course will

receive $400 for the semester course. Independent study courses taught by an adjunct will be

included in their course load and that course load cannot exceed nine credit hours. As part-time

employees, adjuncts do not receive any fringe benefits or bonuses.

Rights and ObligationsFaculty members have rights and obligations under Winnebago Tribal Law, state laws, federal

laws, and college regulations. The conduct of both full-time and adjunct faculty, on campus or

at college-sponsored activities, is subject to all of these laws and rules. It is the responsibility

and obligation of all members of the college community to ensure ethical conduct.

Unacceptable conduct may involve, but are not limited to:

1 Intentional obstruction or disruption of teaching, research, administration,

disciplinary procedures, or other college-authorized functions or events.

2 Unauthorized occupation or use of any college facility.

3 Physical abuse or the threat of physical abuse against any person on the campus or

at any college-authorized function or event, or other conduct that threatens or

endangers the health or safety of any person.

4 Theft of or damage to property of the college or of a person.

5 Intentional interference with the right of access to college facilities or with any other

lawful right of any person on the campus.

6 The illegal possession, use, or distribution of drugs or alcohol.

A breach of ethical conduct could result in disciplinary action from verbal reprimand to

dismissal from the college.

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Academic Freedom PolicyIt is recognized that if faculty members are to teach and carry on research effectively, academic

freedom is necessary. Academic freedom is the freedom of the faculty to teach and speak out

as the fruits of their research and scholarship dictate, even though their conclusions may be

unpopular or contrary to public opinion. Both within and outside the classroom, faculty should

exhibit the accuracy, restraint, and respect for the opinions of others appropriate to educators

and persons of learning. When faculty members express personal opinions, the use of their

college titles should be permitted for identification purposes only, and it should be made clear

that institutional endorsement is not implied. Specifically:

The instructor is entitled to full freedom in research and in the publication of results, but

research for pecuniary return should be based upon an understanding with the

authorities of the college.

The instructor is entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing his or her subject but

should be careful not to introduce his or her personal bias into his or her teaching

matter.

The instructor is an individual, a member of a learned profession, as well as a member

of an educational institution. When speaking as an individual, he or she should be free

from institutional censorship or discipline, but his or her special position in the

community imposes special obligations.

As a person of learning and as an educator, the instructor should remember that the

public may judge his or her utterances. Hence the instructor should at all times be

accurate, should exercise appropriate restraint, should show respect for the opinions of

others, and should make every effort to indicate that he or she is not an institutional

spokesperson.

CompensationInstructor compensation is negotiated upon initial employment and approved by the president.

Typically, instructors do not earn overtime compensation as hours are variable with core hours

established to provide students, the community, professional colleagues and other personnel

access to the instructors. Full-time instructors receive all fringe benefits. Regular continuing

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faculty will remain on the College’s health insurance plan during the summer months. (Refer to

the LPTC Policies and Procedures Manual).

Payroll records are prepared on a bi-monthly basis for full-time faculty and staff with paychecks

issued every two weeks. Faculty paid out of grants are required to complete time and effort

records each week. They must be digitally signed and submitted to the academic dean for

signature at the end of each pay period. Adjunct faculty are paid three times during the course

of the semester. The dates are listed within their contracts. Payment can be by paper check or

direct deposit into a bank account. Paychecks may be withheld pending return of instructional

and library materials, keys, files, attendance reports, grades, or other critical documents.

Release TimeFaculty members may request release time for work assigned over and above a full-time

teaching load. This is negotiated on an individual basis. Generally, course release time will be

proportional to the amount of time required for the work assigned.

Graduate EducationLPTC encourages and supports faculty members’ pursuit of advanced degrees. Those instructors

who hold contracts as full-time instructors must secure approval to enroll in more than six (6)

graduate credits during any semester. The request to take additional graduate credits must be

approved by the academic dean and by the president.

Outside EmploymentFull-time faculty members may engage in off-duty employment, provided that:

Written approval is granted in advance by the academic dean and the president;a. Must be renewed each semesterb. Must be approved for each outside employmentc. This will be kept in the employee’s personnel file

The employment does not conflict with the instructor’s normal work schedules, duties, and responsibilities; The employment does not create a conflict of interest with college employment; The employment does not create a detrimental effect upon the instructor’s work performance; and,

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The employment does not involve conducting business during hours of employment.

Self-employment is considered off-duty employment and falls under the same conditions as

other off-duty employment, with the addition of the restriction that the employment does not

involve ownership of a private business that is incompatible with an employee’s position.

Personal use of LPTC information systems resources or equipment by any user for personal

financial gain in connection with outside (non-LPTC) consulting, business or employment is

prohibited, except as authorized for employees (See the LPTC Policy and Procedures Manual for

additional information). These activities require written authorization and approval by LPTC

administration.

Full-Time Faculty Work WeekInstructors are not hourly employees. However, full-time faculty are expected to work a

minimum of 40 hours/week. The time will not necessarily fall in a usual 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. pattern.

The breakdown of a typical instructor’s work week includes class preparation, contact teaching

hours, professional development, participation in committees and subsequent work,

participation in campus events, and support of community events. Faculty are expected to be

on campus and available for the duration of their ten-month contract; typically August 1st

through May 31st.

Office HoursFull-time instructors will establish and maintain a minimum of ten hours of in-office time/week

during which they will be available to students. These hours must be included in their weekly

schedules that are posted on or near their office doors and listed on their course syllabi. These

hours are set aside so instructors are available to meet with students for instructional

clarification or reinforcement, advisement, career guidance and other college-related

discussions and support.

Part-time instructors have access to a common printer, computer and phone in Elk Clan

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building room 109. They are encouraged to be available to students prior to and after class.

Part-time instructors should note on their syllabi that they are available by appointment to

meet with students. Telephone numbers and e-mail addresses also need to be included on the

course syllabi to insure that students have sufficient access to faculty members.

LeaveFaculty members earn two days of personal/sick leave each semester, but do not earn any

annual leave. Fall, spring, Christmas and summer breaks are available for rest and relaxation.

Sabbatical leave is a temporary allowance of time granted to instructors to encourage scholarly

growth and professional development. LPTC recognizes the need for sabbatical leave and

promotes it when resources are available to support it. Grant funding has been secured in the

past for such opportunities and instructors must abide by the terms of such grant projects.

Interest in a sabbatical leave should be addressed to the academic dean who will provide

information about existing opportunities.

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 the 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 FMLA is administered by the Employment Standards Administration's Wage and

Hour Division within the U.S. Department of Labor.

Faculty Parental Leave

Parental Leave is defined as leave taken to care for a newborn child, or placement of a child

under 18 for purposes of adoption or foster care; full-time faculty who have been employed by

the college for at least twelve months are eligible. Parental Leave must be discussed with the

dean as soon as practical and, whenever possible, the timing and duration of the family leave

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and the workload of the individual should be based upon the requirements of the educational

program and individual circumstances. Leaves of absence only govern time you would

otherwise be working – your 10-month appointment. No Parental leave is offered during the

summer months of June and July.

Eligible faculty who qualify as the “primary care-giver,” defined as a parent who will have

principal responsibility for child-care (this designation would not extend to a parent whose child

is primarily in the care of another care-giver) have a choice of options.

1. The faculty member may be released from teaching two courses, yet remain at full pay

and benefits. Two course leave may be taken as two courses one semester or one course

over two consecutive semesters.

2. The faculty member may opt to take unpaid leave for a semester. In this case the faculty

member would be on a five (5) month contract for that academic year.

Eligible faculty who is not the primary care giver may receive one course release at full pay and

benefits. This leave must be taken during the semester that the birth, adoption or placement

occurs or anytime within four (4) months following the birth or adoption.

Faculty Catastrophic Illness

Catastrophic Illness is defined as a medical condition certified by a physician of a benefits-

eligible, full-time faculty employee that requires an employee’s absence from duty for a

prolonged period of time and which, could result in a substantial loss of income to the

employee because faculty do not accrue leave time.

Medical Condition is the Catastrophic Illness of a Faculty Employee where the employee is

unable to perform his/her job duties. Normal maternity leave is not catastrophic in nature and,

therefore, is not a medical condition that qualifies for Catastrophic Illness.

Prolonged Period of Time is a minimum of twenty (20) consecutive working days in which a

medical condition prevents the Faculty Member from performing his/her duties.

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The Faculty member’s contract will be honored for its duration including any health insurance

and retirement benefits the faculty member has elected to participate in. Any time beyond the

current contract will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Jury DutyFaculty members are to notify the academic dean promptly upon receipt of a jury summons

and subsequent notice of selection to serve as a juror. Instructors so required to provide this

community service will receive their regular rate of pay for normal hours worked up to a

maximum of thirty (30) workdays for this occasion of absence, provided the instructor submits

evidence of the summons and selection notice. Paid absences of jury duty must be so noted on

the instructor’s time sheet by the academic dean for each pay period in which this form of

absence occurs. Instructors will be allowed to retain any mileage compensation paid by the

court. Any additional compensation paid by the respective court jurisdiction must be submitted

to the LPTC Business Office as the college already pays the salary of the instructor.

Faculty AttireThe instructors of Little Priest Tribal College are expected to model professionalism at all levels,

including appropriate work attire. Instructors should be clean and well groomed at all times.

Clothes that are tight, low cut or otherwise display too much skin such as cut-offs, or miniskirts

are not appropriate. Nor should apparel exhibit inappropriate language, images, sexual, or drug

emblems.

ResignationsThere are times when an instructor decides to move to another job. Considering the enormous

impact instructors have on the curriculum, the college asks to be notified as soon as such a

decision is made. The letter of resignation should be submitted to the academic dean. For full-

time faculty at least one semester notification is requested. For adjunct faculty, notification

before the next semester schedule comes out is appreciated.

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Faculty Performance & Development

Faculty Performance EvaluationLittle Priest Tribal College believes in life-long learning and the continued development of

strengths of each faculty member. The faculty performance evaluation is designed to build on

the strengths of each faculty member and foster continued professional development. Full-time

instructors are evaluated by the academic dean. This annual evaluation process must be

completed prior to the end of the academic year. It is a multi-stage evaluation process that

begins with each instructor developing his/her goals for the year and ending with a private

conference between each individual faculty member and the academic dean. These stages are

detailed as follows:

Individual Goals, Objectives, and ActivitiesInstructors will work with the academic dean to develop a professional enhancement plan for

the academic year at the beginning of fall semester. This plan provides the means to assess,

evaluate, as well as plan learning and professional development for each individual instructor.

This plan focuses on the instructor’s academic credentials and experience and the desired areas

for enhancement and development in order to further those credentials and experience. The

Instructor Evaluation folder has the template for this plan.

Peer ObservationAll faculty, full-time and adjunct, will have peer evaluations annually. This annual evaluation

process must be completed prior to the end of the academic year. The instructor and the

academic dean will receive a copy of the completed observation checklist. A copy will be placed

in the instructor’s file and included in the overall review process. The observer will share the

observation summary with the instructor only which the instructor can choose to discuss with

the academic dean.

Self-EvaluationEach instructor will develop and maintain his or her own self-evaluation file. The contents of

the file should encapsulate the teaching and service successes and contributions of the

instructor over the past year (monthly reports and Professional Enhancement Plan {PEP} should

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be helpful in informing this for the instructor). It should also include supportive evidence and

documentation of the level of achievement of the goals and objectives as identified in the PEP

at the beginning of the academic year. Supportive evidence could include items such as

examples of students’ work, unsolicited letters of commendation or appreciation for teaching

or service, professional development examples, advanced degrees or specialization

certification, published articles and so forth.

Student Class EvaluationsStudents will be asked to complete a class evaluation prior to the end of the semester. The

evaluations will be posted on mylittlepriest for each course. The evaluation will originate from

the academic dean’s office after the twelfth week of the semester. These evaluation results will

be compiled and shared with the instructor after final grades are submitted. If class evaluation

results indicate a concern, the academic dean will hold a conference with the faculty member

to discuss the concern in a timely manner after identifying the concern.

Performance Evaluation SessionThe faculty performance evaluation session is a private meeting between the instructor and the

academic typically done in September or October following the academic year in review. It is

designed to synthesize information from all sources identified in this review process. The

guiding documents are the individual development plan (IDP) and Professional Enhancement

Plan (PEP) that specify the goals, objectives, and activities proposed for the academic year. Peer

Observation, Self-Evaluation and Student evaluations will also be used to inform this discussion.

This will provide an annual update of the instructor’s accomplishments and challenges, and

identify areas for further development. This final session is summarized in a performance

evaluation document that specifies if the instructor has accomplished, partially accomplished or

not accomplished the specified tasks. It becomes part of the instructor’s permanent personnel

file in the personnel office and in the academic dean’s office.

If the instructor does not agree with the final performance review, he or she is asked to sign the

review as having read the document. He or she can then submit a rebuttal to the review which

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will also be added to the instructor’s personnel file.2

Faculty Professional DevelopmentFaculty members are encouraged to continue their professional development through

attending and participating in workshops, seminars, conferences and other scholarly or

educational events in their professional field of study. Within budgetary and time constraints,

the college shall support these professional growth activities by providing:

Leave time for full-time faculty members who are presenting papers or who have significant responsibilities at national or other major conferences and events.

Financial support as the instructional budget permits. Institutional recognition for full time faculty members who receive advanced degrees

and/or publish scholarly or significant books and articles. Workshops, presentations and other specialized training as recommended by the

academic dean.

Faculty Library Privileges and ServicesLPTC faculty members are permitted to check out library materials during the semester. No

matter when they are checked out, materials are due the last day of the term. Faculty members

must bear in mind that if they have the materials, students will not have access to them. Faculty

members are responsible for the safe return of all materials they borrow. Materials borrowed

from the library by faculty members should not be loaned to students. Books are ordinarily

loaned to faculty for one semester. Videos are loaned for one week at a time. Equipment is

loaned for one day. Faculty members are allowed unlimited free interlibrary loan privileges. The

library sends overdue notices for your convenience, but faculty members are not charged

overdue fines. If the semester ends and materials are not returned, a memorandum may be

sent to the academic dean's office for follow-up.

Materials can be placed on reserve for the use by students. The Library staff asks that you use a

Library Reserve Form (See Instructional Forms) for all books or media that you wish to place on

hold in the Library. Instructors may select from the LPTC collections for a reserve list or provide

2 Adapted from the Fort Belknap College’s Faculty Handbook 2010-2011

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items from your personal library. Please do not forget to claim personal items at the end of the

semester. If help is needed to construct a bibliography for a syllabus, the librarian is available to

assist. Students can also receive help building bibliographies for papers assigned.

Faculty Library Responsibilities Faculty members are indispensable to the library. From time to time, the director sends out

subject catalogs from which instructors can make selections of recommended materials to be

purchased. Catalogs should be returned to the library even if nothing is found to recommend.

Every attempt will be made to accommodate requests within budgetary limits. In order to build

a quality collection of library materials that serve the needs of the learning community, faculty

members need to be proactive in seeking out the materials that they feel students should have,

and in designing their curricula to incorporate the use of the materials.

In addition to assisting with selection, faculty members need to help with weeding materials

that are no longer useful. With limited shelf space, the materials that remain in each discipline

need to be as current as possible, attractive, and information-rich. Usually this is done at the

end of the spring semester. Please contact the librarian to schedule a time to assist with

weeding in your discipline(s).

Faculty Research PolicyThe research policy at Little Priest Tribal College is predicated on the mission statement of the

college. The emphasis of research is first and foremost to be driven by the relevance that it has

for the Winnebago Indian community. Paramount to this is the inclusion and training of the

Little Priest Tribal College students in any faculty research project. A research project proposal

that involves a Little Priest Tribal College faculty member must be submitted to the Winnebago

Tribe’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) for vetting to ensure that the proper protections are in

place for the community. The proposed research proposal must be submitted through the LPTC

president’s office.

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Faculty Service on CommitteesFull-time faculty members are required to serve on two committees. Each of the committees

described below usually meets twice a month. The overall goal of the committees is to work

toward completing the tasks and vision of the college’s strategic plan, which can be found on

the website, while meeting the mission and philosophy of the college. Minutes and agendas

from each committee are submitted to the president and ultimately filed and archived in the

resource room and on the web. Each committee has adopted a goal and purpose statement,

which is reviewed on an annual basis. The chair presents committee items requiring action to

the president for further action. The chair of each committee submits an annual report of

committee activities to the president at the close of the spring semester. The report is reviewed

and discussed with the committee chair. Special task forces or ad hoc committees are

established from time to time to meet a current need or work on a project. Staff and faculty can

move from committee to committee in September each year.

Hirukana Haksi (Gathering of Leaders) – Executive CouncilHirukana Haksi is chaired by the president and deals with overall management concerns of the

college, including professional development, grant seeking, sustainability, financial matters, and

other administrative concerns, including the Higher Learning Commission’s Criterion 1 –

“Mission and Integrity.”

Howera (The Path) – Curriculum and InstructionHowera is comprised of full-time faculty as voting members, the academic dean as chair, and

any other interested individuals, who receive a one-third vote, and shall review new course

proposals, current programs of study, and new degree programs. This Committee is also

responsible for assessment of student learning and annual program reviews at the end of each

academic year. Full time faculty members must serve on this committee. This committee deals

with the Higher Learning Commission’s Criterion 3 and 4 – “Student Learning and Effective

Teaching” and “Acquisition, Discovery, and Application of Knowledge.”

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Horuxuruk Wagus (Ability to make or create) – Student SuccessHoruxuruk Wagus addresses all things relating to students, including scholarships, disciplinary

action, graduation, retention, recruitment, financial aid and appeals. The chair is elected from

members each fall. This committee deals with the Higher Learning Commission’s Criterion 5 –

“Engagement and Service.”

Ho’upi Hocira (House of Possibilities) – Institutional DevelopmentHo’upi Hocira addresses all things related to the building and grounds and general operation of

the college. It includes but is not limited to, IT and maintenance and shares responsibility of

Grants and Development with Hirukana Haksi. The chair is elected from members each fall. This

committee deals with the Higher Learning Commission’s Criterion 2 – “Preparing for the

Future.”

Assessment of Academic LearningCollege faculty members have primary responsibility for the curriculum. The college is

continuously seeking means to strengthen the curriculum and to insure that it is current in the

respective disciplines. A successful curriculum is dependent upon LPTC’s ability to assess each

of the academic programs and the educational and tangible outcomes associated with it.

General Education at Little Priest Tribal College provides students with the opportunity to

develop basic skills and to acquire and intellectual foundation that will help them succeed in

college and in life. The specific outcomes of General Education at LPTC are to

1. Demonstrate knowledge of HoChunk culture and language.2. Communicate effectively.3. Think critically. 4. Demonstrate mathematical, scientific and technological literacy.

Each academic program i.e., major, has exit or outcome competencies that all students should

be able to demonstrate upon the successful completion of the program. These learning

outcomes form the basis for ongoing assessment of students individually but also for the

program assessment as a whole. Please refer to the Course Catalog for the learning outcomes

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of each program offered at LPTC.

OutcomesProgram outcomes are statements, as precise as possible, which describe what knowledge and

skills students must achieve by the time they graduate from the program. These program

outcomes are then translated into course competencies which must be included on all course

syllabi so that students understand what knowledge and skills a particular course is designed to

address. These course competencies then form the basis of any assessment given in the course

and are linked to the grading criteria. Some methods to assess competencies include:

Rubrics Quizzes and Tests Assignments that embed specific competencies in their structures Capstone Courses Capstone Portfolios

Instructors should consider maintaining copies of individual students’ assignments as artifacts

for the assessment of competencies which allows for the evaluation of students over time at

the individual level and at the cohort level. These artifacts can also support and illustrate the

conclusions drawn in the program assessment process.

All instructors must use the suggested syllabus outline in the Instructional Forms folder. The

general education courses’ outcomes must be in line with the outcomes provided through the

Nebraska Transfer Initiative.

Academic Outcome ReviewAt the end of each semester there will be assessment of specified courses according to the

Course Assessment Policy. A minimum of four courses will be assessed each semester. All

courses should be assessed at least once over a six semester rotation. This assessment is not

about student or instructor performance. The intent is to assess rather LPTC courses are

meeting the general education outcomes listed above and the program outcomes listed in the

course catalog. The Assessment Committee has set up acceptable standards that need to be

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met for all classes during the assessment semester.

Academic Program ReviewAt the end of each academic year, there will be a one-to-two-day faculty meeting to review one

or more academic programs. The primary instructors, including adjuncts, are responsible for

the presentation of the program history, current status, challenges, and recommendations of

the program. Refer to Curriculum folder for the program review process.3

New Curriculum ProcessLittle Priest Tribal College's philosophy supports a shared governance process; therefore, the

Howera plays a major role in the development of curriculum. A responsibility of this committee

is to review new course proposals, current programs of study, and new degree programs. Any

faculty member may initiate the process for the development of a new course proposal.

The process begins with the faculty member(s) meet to brainstorm and discuss the idea. As

LPTC is a small educational institution, the academic dean is informally involved throughout the

entire process. After conferring with the academic dean, the faculty member completes the

New Course or New Degree Proposal form (found in instructional Forms folder).

The proposal is submitted to the Howera for its review and action. The committee may either

approve or deny the proposal. If the committee approves the proposal, it is forwarded to the

academic dean for signature and finally to the president for approval.

A proposed course may be offered once as a 1900 or 2900 level course without going through

the full approval process. Such course offerings must be approved by the academic dean. But

for a course to be integrated into the college curriculum Howera must review and approve it

and a permanent number must be assigned by the registrar.

If Howera does not grant approval for the proposed new course offering, it is returned to the

3 Adapted from the Fort Belknap College Faculty Handbook

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initiator with the committee's recommendations for re-submission or the rationale for denial.

Denied new course proposals may be re-submitted to the committee for re-evaluation.

Proposals for new programs of study and new degree programs follow the same process as

requests for new courses, except that final approval authority rests with the Board of Trustees.

Faculty ReportsAll faculty are required to submit monthly reports to the academic dean. These will be kept in

the instructor’s academic file and, if asked will be shared with the president and the BOT.

At the end of each semester every instructor will submit a “snapshot” of each course taught to

the academic dean, along with a completed four-column course assessment form outlining how

the objectives of the course were assessed. This data will be used for assessment and

accreditation purposes. Both forms are found in the Instructor folder.

The monthly report (See Instructional Forms) should address accomplishments, challenges and

responses on how your classes, research, committee work and other activities meet the goals

set out by LPTC and the Board of Trustees in the Strategic Plan:

1. Provide opportunities to learn and practice HoChunk language and culture and to gain insight into the experiences of indigenous peoples throughout the world.

2. Provide excellent academic and technical programs that prepare students to succeed in their professions and in their communities.

3. Develop a campus environment that encourages excellence, provides opportunity for nurturing and growth, and promotes interaction among students, staff, faculty and the Winnebago and surrounding communities.

4. Provide opportunities and support for LPTC students as they strive to become active and engaged members of their local, regional, and global communities.

5. Prepare for the future and practice continuous improvement.

The end-of-semester “snapshot” (see Instructor folder) looks specifically at the attendance and

success of the students and includes the following information about classes taught:

Number enrolled Number dropped or withdrawn Number passed Number failed Absenteeism percentage – i.e., per each student and class rate

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Other concerns/issues Successes

The four-column course assessment (see Instructor folder) identifies the outcomes and

objectives for a given course and how the instructor plans to measure the given outcome. It

also provides a summary of how students performed on the measurement artifact and provides

space for the instructor to evaluate the effectiveness of the assessment. The 4-column course

assessment is due at the end of each semester along with the semester snapshot.

Course informationThe majority of LPTC courses are offered face-to-face. These include Learning Communities, Labs, and Practicums. On-line, distance and hybrid courses are also offered. LPTC classes may be delivered in several modes.

Face-to-face is attendance in a designated classroom. On-line classes are delivered through mylittlepriest portal with minimal to no classroom

contact hours. Distant learning is sent or received to or from an off-campus classroom. Hybrid classes are a combination of face-to-face meetings and on-line lectures and/or

assignments. Learning communities are cohorts of students (typically 5-15) who co-enroll in two or

more distinct courses usually taught by two or more instructors in the same classroom back-to-back. In reality, the courses are not distinct but unified; instructors attend both sessions and make connections across the content areas in discussions, assessments and projects; thus students’ learning is reinforced by both instructors. Service learning projects that incorporate both content areas provide contexts for applying new knowledge and using it for the benefit of the community.

LPTC’s main campus is located on College Drive. New satellite campuses, HoChunk Centre located at 600 4th Street, Suite 229 in Sioux City Iowa and a North Campus in HoChunk Village in Winnebago, Nebraska are also available for classes.

Course SyllabiAll instructors are expected to develop a course syllabus for each course including organized

information that students will use as a guide to course activity and requirements throughout

the semester. Only the course title and number approved in the current catalog or passed by

Howera can be used in the course syllabus. Please refer to Instructor Forms folder for the

course syllabus requirements. Although there is a required format and required learning

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objectives for each LPTC course, there is considerable room for customizing one’s syllabus. This

is particularly true when establishing one’s own classroom policies. Will late assignments be

accepted? Will points for class participation be given? How will points be assigned? These and

many other important aspects of teaching a college course should be carefully thought out in

advance. When determining what one’s classroom policies will be, remember that adult

learners will appreciate flexibility but also thrive on a certain amount of structure. Whatever is

in the syllabus should reflect one’s desire to help students succeed, even if certain hard and fast

rules are needed to assure the integrity of the course.

All syllabi must be submitted to the academic dean for approval prior to the first day of the

term and the approved syllabus must be distributed to students at the first class meeting.

The syllabus is a contract between the instructor and the student. It is a permanent record of

the course as it was taught. And it is a learning tool that helps the students to stay focused and

keep pace with assignments and readings. While adjustments may be necessary during the

course of the term, it is important to stay as close to this course plan as possible and inform

students when a change must be made. Assistance in preparing the syllabus is available from

the academic dean.

Course AssessmentAnother important aspect of preparing for a course is to determine how each outcome is to be

assessed. Four column course assessment was approved by Howera in fall 2011. It is required

by the HLC as evidence of learning assessment. Full instructions and form are in the

Instructional Forms folder. The intended outcomes/objectives should be succinct, clear and

measurable (refer to Bloom’s taxonomy for measurable vocabulary.) They should be identical to

the outcomes and objectives on your syllabus. (The Nebraska Transfer Initiative suggests three

outcomes for each one hour of credit.) All classes should include the four General Education

Outcomes. If it is a Program core course, the program objectives should be included in addition

to the specific outcomes for THIS course.

The assessment criteria identify how you plan to measure the knowledge, skill or ability that is

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identified by the objective. Column 1 and 2 should be submitted to the academic dean at the

beginning of the semester with the course syllabus.

Assessment Results summarizes how well students performed on the measured artifact. The

Use of Results is your evaluation/reflection on the results AND if/how you are going to assess

differently in the future. The full four column assessment is due with the snapshot at the end

of each semester.

Class SchedulesThe class schedule is guided by the classes required each semester as specified in the academic

program offerings. The initial base schedule is developed by the academic dean and the

registrar. Once the initial draft is completed, the instructors are asked for input prior to the

completion of the class schedule. This schedule takes into account the needs of the academic

program, targeted students, and the need to increase access to those students who cannot

attend classes full time. Any changes in the course schedules, such as the time and place of the

class meeting, must be approved by the academic dean and the registrar must be kept

informed. The deadline for the completion of the fall and summer schedule is the end of March.

The deadline for completion of the spring schedule is the end of October.

Cancellation of ClassesThe academic dean reserves the right to cancel any course for which there is not sufficient

student enrollment. Minimum class size is usually set at six (6) students. If a course is needed by

one or more students for graduation, or if there are other cogent reasons for offering the class,

then the dean can allow it to continue.

Field TripsThe following procedure is designed to protect both faculty members and students during field

trip activities and to ensure that field trips are an integral part of the course. Please adhere to

the following procedures for all field trips.

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Obtain permission from the academic dean via a written request. The request should

specify the location, method of transport, expense involved, any risks involved, and the

educational value of the trip. (See Instructor Forms folder).

Submit the completed request to the academic dean at least two (2) weeks prior to the

proposed trip.

The faculty member will ensure that all students enrolled in the course are notified of the time,

place, cost (if any), and any other important information regarding the field trip.

Guest SpeakersGuest speakers can add new, unique, or special information to class content. Their use is

encouraged where appropriate. The college cannot pay guest speakers. Instructors should be

present during a guest speaker’s presentation, since the purpose of the guest speaker is to

enhance the class, not to serve as a substitute for the instructor.

TestingAssessment should be an integral part of every course and should provide feedback for both

the instructor and the student on a regular basis. Each faculty member should devise

appropriate diagnostic methods to use in each class to confirm proper placement of students

and to assist in designing appropriate instruction for each student. A final assessment, planned

near the end of the semester, should be an opportunity for students to review the class

material and to determine if the goals and objectives of the class have been met. Classes must

meet during finals week, which is noted on the academic calendar, but this must be a capstone

experience and not used for class time.

Placement TestingAll new degree-seeking students are required to take a placement test prior to admission to

Little Priest Tribal College. Students whose placement test scores indicate a need for

preparatory work in English, reading, or math will be placed in appropriate courses. Students

will work with faculty advisors to arrange an individual program of study based on the

placement test scores, academic background, academic goals, and personal interests. Student

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Support Services can assist students in understanding their abilities, interests and aptitudes and

how these relate to appropriate educational and career placement.

Final ExaminationsA comprehensive final exam is at the discretion of the instructor as long as there is some

capstone experience in all classes (e.g., a final exam, unit exam, a final class presentation, final

project, or other measurement). Classes are NOT held during finals week. There is a separate

final schedule that roughly follows the time and day of your class. Final week test times

schedule is 9-11 am, 12-2 pm, 3-5 pm and 6-8 pm providing a full two hours for the final. The

final week schedule will be made available prior to the start of each semester so you can

include the final time on your syllabus. For example: a class that starts at 8:30 am on

Monday/Wednesday will be assigned a 9-11 am final time on Monday of final week, and a class

that starts at 10:15 a, on Monday/Wednesday will be assigned a 9-11 am final time on

Wednesday of final week. Likewise with the Tuesday/Thursday classes. Students and

instructors are expected to be present during finals week. Any change in schedule is to be

approved by the academic dean.

Graduation AssessmentAll Little Priest Tribal College students will be required to take the Collegiate Assessment of

Academic Proficiency (CAAP) and Capstone test before the end of their graduating semester.

The CAAP assesses students’ general education competencies and the Capstone exam assess

students’ knowledge of HoChunk language, culture and history. Test dates are given on the

Academic Calendar. Student Support Services administers the CAAP; the Indigenous Studies

department coordinates the Capstone presentations.

Inclement Weather Little Priest Tribal College will participate in the SNOWCAP system for all cancellation

and weather-related announcements. This system will transmit the college’s

announcements to all participating Sioux City news media. The IT personnel will post

closings on the website and if implemented, send mass text-messaging to those on the

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text-message list. In addition, individuals can also receive postponement or cancellation

information at http://closings.siouxland.com. LPTC will also provide a phone tree to

insure that employees who live outside the area receive announcements. If an

employee has not been reached and/or is in doubt about coming to work, the employee

is responsible for calling their immediate supervisor or checking the website for

clarification.

Cancellations and postponements should occur only in rare instances in order to insure

classes meet the required number of hours. However, please use your judgment when

deciding to travel to work during inclement weather. Please call ahead and/or leave a

message regarding your plans so that LPTC staff and your family can estimate your

arrival time and insure you arrive safely. All classes that are cancelled must be

rescheduled and rescheduled dates and times must be submitted to the academic dean

for documentation.

Student Attendance PolicyStudents are expected to attend classes regularly. The instructor will announce attendance

requirements for each class and has final authority in excusing students from class sessions. The

student alone assumes responsibility for all absences, and must make arrangements with his or

her instructor to make-up work. Conflicts about excused and unexcused absence must be

resolved between the student and the instructor. Permission to makeup the work is at the

discretion of the individual instructor. There is a strong correlation between attendance and

success in a course. The attendance policy for each course should be stated in the syllabus.

It is the policy of Little Priest Tribal College to take attendance at each class meeting and input

the attendance into the class portal in mylittlepriest. Regular attendance is defined as attending

at least eighty percent (80%) of all scheduled class periods over the course of the semester. For

example, a class that meets three times per week will allow a maximum of nine absences; a

class that meets two times a week will allow a maximum of six absences; and for those classes

that meet once per week a maximum of three absences is allowed. Any student reaching the

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maximum number of absences, for any reason, prior to the end of the term is subject to being

dropped.

Student Support Services is to be notified within a minimum of five (5) business days prior to

any student being dropped. Either the instructor or the registrar may initiate the drop. Once a

student has been dropped, under no circumstances will the student be allowed to re-enroll in

that class during the current semester. In special documented cases, the instructor may request

a variance to the drop policy on behalf of the student. Variances are approved by the voting

members of Howera who may call a special meeting to hear the variance request. Adjunct

instructors requesting a variance may do so through the academic dean.

Student Conduct and DisciplineAn instructor may ask a student to leave the classroom if the student's behavior distracts or

interferes with learning, or if the behavior in any way infringes on the rights of other students.

After consultation with the student, the instructor may re-admit the student to the class or

refer the matter to the academic dean. The instructor should notify the academic dean in

writing regarding the situation and circumstances.

Class RostersFaculty should check their class roster in mylittlepriest portal against the students attending

class. Any discrepancies should be reported to the registrar immediately. At the end of the

two-week drop/add period, the registrar issues an official class roster for each course. Faculty

should indicate any students who have never attended class, or are not on the roster, sign it

and return it to the registrar promptly. Any student who has never attended class will be

administratively dropped and not allowed to re-enter the class for that semester. This is

critically important since federal regulations require verification of student attendance before

financial aid is disbursed. A final class roster for the semester will then be distributed. After the

third week of classes students impacted by the attendance policy can be withdrawn by faculty

members using a withdrawal form. See Withdrawal Form in the Instructional Forms folder.

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Student RetentionThe mylittlepriest portal requests that students update their contact information online at the

time of registration. They are asked to verify this information at least once over the course of

the semester. This will allow students to ensure that information on file is correct and up-to-

date.

The class attendance portal in mylittlepriest will be used to track the attendance of students.

Mylittlepriest flags any student who misses one class for once-a-week classes and after two

absences for twice-a-week classes. The instructor should attempt to contact the student by

phone and/or email within 24 hours of the mylittlepriest notification. The Retention Specialist

should be copied on this email to the student. This initiates conversation between the

instructor, the Retention Specialist and the student so intensive efforts can be made to

encourage students to attend or inform students of the process of withdrawing. Faculty are also

asked to report students who are having difficulties in class either due to attendance or missing

assignments or both using Progress Reports found in the Instructional Forms folder four times

over the semester, at the third, sixth, ninth and twelfth week.

Classroom BreaksBreaks, in addition to providing needed relaxation, often provide for discussions that have

educational value; therefore, it is recommended that a ten-minute break be given after each

fifty minutes of classroom instruction (2-3 hour classes only).

Student Privacy and Release of InformationFamily Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations define student privacy rights (see

more detail of policy on page 49 of this handbook). FERPA guarantees students four primary

rights:

The right to inspect and review education records.

The right to seek, to amend, or challenge education records.

The right to have some control over the disclosure of information from those education

records.

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The right to file a complaint concerning alleged failures by institutions to comply with the

FERPA regulations.

Information on grades and classroom performance must be provided only to the student.

Students at colleges and universities gain FERPA rights even though they may be under 18 years

of age; those rights transfer from the parents to the student when the student enters a post-

secondary institution. For full information on FERPA please refer to the Course Catalog.

Academic Policies

Grading SystemStudent grades should reflect academic achievement and the level of quality at which students

have met the learning objectives of the course. Aside from actually teaching, grading is the

most important responsibility of a faculty member. Instructors inform students of course

grading policies within the syllabus, which is explained and distributed to students at the

beginning of the course. Faculty members are encouraged to provide progress information to

students on a regular basis. This should be current and ongoing within the class grading portal

in mylittlepriest. The final evaluation of a student's work is issued at the end of each semester.

Faculty should give careful thought to their grading scales. Grades may not be lowered for

student behavior in class or as a disciplinary action. Many instructors use participation points as

part of their grading scheme to encourage class attendance. If this strategy is used, the syllabus

should define “participation” and how participation points are earned and calculated in the

final grade.

Grade points are allocated for each credit hour earned to provide numerical evaluation of a

student's scholastic record. Grade points for each hour of credit are assigned as indicated

below. The total number of grade points accumulated by the student is divided by the total

number of quality hours to calculate the grade point average. When a course is repeated, only

the grade earned in repetition will be used in computing the grade point average.

The cumulative grade point average is calculated only on courses taken at Little Priest Tribal

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College. LPTC uses the following grade point scale to determine GPA: A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0,

D = 1.0, F = 0. Most instructors use a percentage scale for grading. The following is an example.

A 90-100B 80-89C 70-79D 60-69F 0-59

Minuses and pluses can be used in grading class tests and assignments, but not for final grades

for the semester. Note: A final grade is regarded as a permanent record of a student’s

performance in the class. Once submitted this grade cannot be changed unless an error has

occurred in its calculation or unless an instructor has negotiated a grade change with a student

as part of making up missing work. Such agreements are at the discretion of the instructor and

must be completed within a one semester time period. A change of Grade form (See

Instructional Forms) must be submitted to the registrar.

Other typical grade interpretations are as follows:

A Excellent. Exceeds designated course expectations. Has full command of course material.

B Good. Meets designated course expectations. Demonstrates understanding of course material.

C Average. Meets most, but not all, course expectations. Demonstrates incomplete understanding of course material.

D Below average. Meets few of the course expectations. Demonstrates minimal knowledge of the course material.

F Failure. Recorded if course requirements have not been met, or the student does not

complete the course and does not officially withdraw. This is computed in the grade point

average.

P Pass –This is recorded in courses where conventional grades are not given and indicates

student mastery of the material.

NP No Pass – This is recorded in courses where conventional grades are not given and the

work is not satisfactory.

I Incomplete – Given only in very extreme situations. See policy that follows.

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AU Audit – An audit (i.e. no credit) does not count in the computation of grade point

average. A change from audit to credit or credit to audit must be made within the first

30 calendar days of the semester or the comparable time period in a short session.

W Withdrew –This is recorded if a student officially withdrew from one or more courses.

Incomplete PolicyIncompletes may be given to students at the instructor’s discretion, but based on the following criteria:

1. Student must be in compliance with the Attendance Policy (no excessive absences), 2. There must be a clearly unavoidable circumstance that would prohibit the student from completing the course.

Students must meet both criteria before being considered for an Incomplete.

Incompletes should be infrequently used and not a substitute for work not completed in a regular session due to frequent absences or poor academic performance.

Procedure for filling Incomplete Contracts:

If the criteria noted above are met and the Instructor agrees to provide an Incomplete, the student is responsible for meeting with the Instructor and arranging specific plans for fulfilling the requirements.

A statement of the reasons for the incomplete and the requirements for removing it must be submitted by the instructor and placed in the student’s file in the registrar’s office.

The academic dean must sign off on all incomplete agreements and all requests for additional time extensions.

Incomplete coursework agreements must be satisfactorily completed by no later than the sixth (6th) week following the semester or session in which the Incomplete was incurred.

Incompletes are computed in the student’s grade point average as an “F” until removed. Please report the incomplete as an “I” in mylittlepriest and be sure a copy of the signed contract is turned into the registrar’s office by the time grades are due.

The instructor must submit a Change of Grade form to the registrar by the end of the sixth week or the Incomplete will be committed to an “F”.

In rare cases, as Instructor may grant an extension of time exceeding the original six weeks – in effect, continuing the Incomplete agreement for a period up to, but not to exceed an additional four (4) weeks. However, the request for an additional extension of time must be made prior to the end of the 6-week time frame, be approved by the academic dean, and be on file in the registrar’s office prior to the end of the sixth week.

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A student who believes an error was made concerning a semester grade should contact the instructor immediately. After six (6) weeks, the instructor may change a grade only with the approval of the academic dean.

Grade ChangeChanges in grades can occur through the end of the semester following the semester the grade

was earned. After that time a grade change is rare and requires the permission and signature

of the academic dean.

Mid-Term GradesMid-term grades are submitted by the instructors at the end of the eighth week of the

semester. This must be submitted in mylittlepriest by the date and time on the academic

calendar. This grade indicates how the student is progressing mid-way through the semester,

and is not computed in the grade point average. Registrar will contact students who receive a

progress grade below a "C" and encourage them to seek tutoring and/or counseling assistance.

Students who are considering withdrawal from a class should be notified of the withdrawal

policy and that they will still owe the cost of tuition and fees for the course.

Progress ReportsProgress reports are submitted for at-risk students on the Friday of the third, sixth, ninth and

twelfth week of the semester. By reporting at-risk students the retention specialist will assist

faculty in contacting the student(s) with the intention of helping them successfully complete

the course(s).

Auditing Courses Students may audit courses by registering for audit at the registrar’s office. No academic credit

is earned in an audited course. Course requirements do not apply in the case of an audit. A

change from an audit to credit or credit to audit must be made within the first 30 calendar days

of the semester or the comparable time period in a short session.

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Changing a Course ScheduleDuring the drop-add period, students wishing to drop or add a course must complete a

Drop/Add form and submit it to the registrar (form included in Instructional Forms folder).

Except in rare cases courses may not be added to a student's schedule after the time period

designated in each semester's class schedule and must be approved by the academic dean.

Withdrawal From ClassA “W” will be recorded on a student's record if he or she withdraws from one or more

classes. Students may withdraw officially from a class up to the 11th week of the semester.

After this time, regular withdrawal will be permitted only under special circumstances,

such as extended illness, which make it necessary for a student to lighten his/her load.

Check the current class schedule for specific dates.

A student is not considered officially withdrawn from a course until a Withdrawal Form is

filled out by the student or the instructor, and filed in the registrar’s office. The last date

of attendance (LDA) must be included on the form. A student who withdraws from a class

may still be liable for all or a portion of the tuition and/or fees. (See Refund Schedule in

the LPTC Course Catalog and refer also to attendance policy in this handbook for related

information).

Withdrawal From CollegeAll withdrawals from college must be made officially through the registrar’s office. Grade of W

will be recorded for all students who officially withdrew from college before the beginning of

the final examination period. Official withdrawal from college after this time will be permitted

only with the approval of the academic dean. The earned grade may be given to any student

who leaves without officially withdrawing and a refund may be denied. A student who

completely withdraws may be liable for all or a portion of tuition and/or fees. (See Refund

Schedule in LPTC Course Catalog).

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Repeating CoursesA student may repeat a course to raise a grade of D, F, or NP. To repeat a course to raise a

grade of C or better, the student must have the consent of both the instructor and the

academic dean. No federal grants will pay for a repeat course to raise a D or better. When a

course is repeated, the grade earned in repetition will stand.

Independent StudyIndependent study courses are defined as those LPTC college credit courses that may be taken

by a student on an independent study basis due to special circumstances, primarily to meet

special scheduling problems. The course must be an LPTC college credit class listed in the

college catalog. The student must complete the same course content as when the course is

offered in a traditional class format. To register for an independent study, a student must

complete a Request for Independent Study form. All academic policies and procedures for

college credit courses apply to independent study courses.

1. The student must demonstrate that the need for a particular course is genuine. That is, the student must show that he/she has not evaded the course when it was offered, and that his/her normal academic progress will be delayed if the course is not immediately offered via independent study.

2. A suitable instructor must be available and cannot give the instructor a course overload.

3. The instructor concerned must approve of the arrangement.

4. The academic dean must sign the request.

5. The student must be in good academic and financial standing with the College.

Cell Phone UseIt is expected that cell phones will be turned off during class although instructors have

discretion regarding cell phones in class. Students are not to disrupt class with the use of cell

phones as they need to be attentive to the instruction or activities provided during class.

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Administrative Procedures

OrientationAll new and returning faculty members are required to attend faculty orientation prior to fall

and spring semesters. The purpose of orientation is to inform the faculty members of the

college expectations as well as provide an opportunity to review LPTC’s policies and procedures

and the LPTC Faculty Handbook.

JenzabarJenzabar is the campus data base. All faculty has access to the mylittlepriest portal. At the

beginning of your employment you receive a user name and password for the data base. All

faculty are required to keep weekly attendance and ongoing grades in this portal. At the

minimum this requires that syllabi and assignments are uploaded, student scores are recorded

and grading criteria are inputted. New faculty will be oriented to the data base prior to the start

of classes.

CommunicationAll Instructors’ mailboxes are located on the first floor of the Huc\ Clan building in the

receptionist office. Instructors are encouraged to check their mailboxes regularly. Much of the

internal communication is by electronic mail. Every instructor is provided with a college email

account and this should be checked on a daily basis. All full-time instructors have access to a

telephone with voice mail which also needs to be checked on a regular basis.

E-Mail & Internet UseLPTC has a formal Computer and Internet Use Policy that all employees and students are

required to follow. The full policy can be found on the LPTC website. The computers, electronic

mail, and Internet access systems that are used at the college are intended for college business

purposes only. Under no circumstances is any college property to be used to solicit, harass, or

otherwise offend. The college reserves the right to monitor or review any information stored or

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transmitted on its equipment. Furthermore, these systems should not be considered

completely secure so discretion is advised when sending and storing highly sensitive or

confidential information. All messages are college records.

Faculty Business CardsThe public relation specialist will order faculty business cards as needed. Please advise the

academic dean when additional business cards need to be ordered.

Textbooks, Materials, and Teaching SuppliesIt is the responsibility of each faculty member to review textbooks and to select the best

sources to meet the needs of the students at Little Priest Tribal College. It is the discretion of

the academic dean and Howera to veto any books that are deemed inappropriate for use.

Consult with the academic dean if a question arises regarding textbooks that are appropriate

for a class. All book orders must adhere to the stated timelines and must be placed through the

academic dean’s office. Instructors are required to fill out the Textbook Order form (found in

Instructional Forms). The method of textbook adoption follows these required steps:

Instructor selects texts and/or required course materials.

Academic dean approves selection.

Book request form is sent to the bookstore manager.

Office Supplies and EquipmentFaculty members are expected to coordinate with the academic dean for the purchase of office

equipment or supplies needed. Established purchasing guidelines are to be followed when

ordering equipment or supplies. Purchases made without authorization will be the

responsibility of the individual making the purchase and will not be eligible for reimbursement

through the college.

CopyingCampus copy machines are available to the faculty in each campus building. The faculty

members are responsible for following the copyright laws. Sensitive items (e.g., exams, quizzes,

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student essays) should be placed into the hands of the appropriate individual. Normally items

will be copied both sides and head-to-head. Students are not allowed to use the copy

machines. Instructors have the discretion whether to copy a document for a student but

students are not to use the office copiers.

Copyright LawInstructors have a moral obligation to practice integrity and trustworthiness. LPTC expects

students to refrain from cheating on tests and from taking others' belongings. Instructors

should honor the law when it comes to fair use and copyright. Thus, instructors not only should

protect themselves from legal liability but should also model honesty and truthfulness by

knowing when and what may be copied for educational use.4 The head Librarian is a valuable

resource concerning copyright laws.

Plagiarism and Academic IntegrityHonesty in academic matters is expected of all students. Actions that are contrary to the spirit

of academic integrity will not be tolerated. Students who attempt to misrepresent someone

else's work as their own, to receive credit for assignments they did not do, obtain an unfair

advantage over other students in the completion of work, or aid other students to do the above

are breaching academic integrity. The responsibility for maintaining integrity is shared by all

members of the academic community.

No one, under any circumstances, should appropriate and use another's idea, words, or

organization of ideas, as one’s own. To plagiarize is to steal and pass off the ideas or words of

another as one's own or use another's production without crediting the source.5 It is not only

unethical to plagiarize, it is illegal.

Family and Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)It is imperative that faculty members understand and accept the responsibility of working with

confidential student records. The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) 4 Modified from: http://home.earthlink.net/~cnew/research.htm#Purpose of use.5 www.merriam-Webster.com -On-Line Dictionary - accessed October 21, 2010

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mandates that student academic records are to be kept in confidence. They may be disclosed to

a third party only with the student's written permission. The authorization form can be

obtained from Student Support Services or the registrar. Unless written permission is obtained,

the discussion, use, or access of student records are limited to job-related, legitimate

educational interests.

The security for the processing and maintenance of student records extends to the use of

computer records as well as any other records. Information entered in any computer database

must not be disclosed, altered, or falsified in any manner, and the use or access of these

records must be limited to job-related, legitimate educational interests.

FERPA also provides that students in post-secondary institutions be extended the right to

inspect and review any records, files, documents and other materials which contain information

directly related to them.

Faculty members are expected to maintain the confidentiality of all academic records. Grades

cannot be announced publicly or posted using student's names or identifiable numbers. Some

examples of inappropriate use of student records are itemized on the Statement of

Understanding on Use of Student Records form, which all faculty are required to sign when

beginning employment with Little Priest Tribal College.

Requests for directory information (e.g., name, address, telephone number, date and place of

birth, dates of attendance, honors and awards received) should be referred to the registrar.

Requests for any additional information require a notarized authorization form.

Drug Free WorkplaceLittle Priest Tribal College's policies prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit

drugs and/or alcohol by students and employees on college property or as part of any of the

college's sponsored activities. All students and employees shall observe federal, state, and tribal

laws regarding the sale and use of alcohol and drugs. Organizations collectively and students

individually will be held responsible for any violations. Failure to adhere to regulations relating

to alcoholic beverages and/or drugs will result in disciplinary action.

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The following policy is required by the Drug Free Workplace Act and complies with the

applicable law concerning drug use in the workplace. Employees are expected and required to

report to work on time and in appropriate mental and physical condition for work. It is LPTC’s

intent and obligation to provide a drug-free, healthful, and safe work environment.

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession or use of a controlled substance on the

college premises or while conducting college business off its premises is absolutely prohibited.

Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination, and

may have legal consequences.

Employees must report any conviction under a criminal drug statute for violations occurring on

or off the college premises while conducting college business. A report of a conviction must be

made within seven (7) days after the conviction. Random drug testing of faculty and staff are

done two times a year. Roughly a third of employees are tested annually. A full outline of the

policy can be found in the Personnel Policy and Procedure Manual.

Work Environment MisconductThe college has a commitment, and employees have an obligation, to make the work

environment efficient and safe. Any conduct that interferes with another employee's

performance or creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment will not be

tolerated. Included as misconduct are derogatory statements about one's race, religion,

handicap, or national origin. Sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal and

physical contact of a sexual nature are strictly prohibited. (See the section on Sexual

Harassment that follows.)

An individual who encounters misconduct, including conduct violating the college’s Equal

Employment Opportunity Policy, should immediately contact his/her superior and/or the

administrative staff. The administrative staff shall investigate reports of misconduct. Any

person(s) found to have engaged in misconduct are subject to the full range of disciplinary

procedures including, but not limited to, termination, suspension and/or banishment from any

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campus facility.

These rights are guaranteed to all board members, administrators, current employees,

applicants for employment at the college, presently enrolled students, students applying for

admission and, the private sector visiting our campus.

Persons with inquiries or complaints regarding discrimination should contact:

Office of the PresidentLittle Priest Tribal CollegeP.O. Box 270Winnebago, NE 68071Phone: (402) 878-2380 extension 108

For additional general information about discrimination concerns, you may contact the

Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission, Downtown Education Center/State Office Building,

1313, Farnam Street, 3rd Floor, Omaha, NE 68102-1836. Telephone: 402-595-2029 or Toll Free:

800-382-7820.

Sexual Harassment Little Priest Tribal College endeavors to maintain a workplace characterized by mutual respect.

Accordingly, sexual harassment will not be tolerated at Little Priest Tribal College. Sexual

harassment is a violation of Section 703 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the

Education Amendments of 1972, and the Civil Services Reform Act of 1978.

Prohibited Activities Sexual harassment has been defined as a form of sex discrimination consisting of unwanted

sexual advances. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include, but are not limited to

the following behaviors:

suggesting or implying that failure to accept a request for a date or sex would hinder an

individual's academic, social, or professional standing;

verbal or written sexually suggestive or obscene comments, jokes, or propositions;

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unwanted sexually suggestive looks, gestures, abusive comments, or other actions

which compromise one's environment;

unwelcome physical contact, such as touching, grabbing, or pinching;

displaying sexually suggestive objects, pictures, or magazines;

continual expression of sexual or social interest after an indication that such interest is

not desired;

conduct with sexual implications when such conduct interferes with the employee's

work performance or creates an intimidating work environment;

subjecting a third party to the witnessing of sexual harassment to an extent that it

creates an uncomfortable working environment.

Harassment by Non-employees LPTC will endeavor to protect employees, to the extent possible, from reported harassment by

non-employees such as from customers, vendors, and other parties who have workplace

contact with our employees. If you feel your rights have been violated in the form of sexual

harassment, contact the academic dean immediately.

It is a violation of policy for any college personnel to tolerate any form of harassment defined

by this policy by a student, faculty, administrator, or other college personnel, or by any third

parties who are participating in, observing, or otherwise engaged in activities. This harassment

policy applies not only to the workplace during normal business hours, but also to business

travel and all work-related social functions, even if such activities are held off-campus.

Disciplinary ActionThe immediate supervisor of an employee may recommend the suspension or termination of

an employee to the president. Only the president shall have the authority to suspend or

terminate the employment of an employee of the college. A full-time employee who is subject

to disciplinary actions shall have access to the Grievance Procedures (Refer to the LPTC Personal

Policies and Procedures Manual).

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Grounds for demotion, probation, suspension, or termination include, but are not limited to:

Incompetence;

Inability to continuously perform the required duties;

Personal misconduct inimical to the best interest of the school or students;

Reduction in personnel due to decreased enrollment or lack of funds;

Complete or substantial closing of the school;

Reduction in force or closure of the program, project, or termination of the position; or,

Insubordination.

Chief Little Priest