Policies and Procedures

Please visit the Tuition & Fees page for full details.

POLICY

Current Teaching Credential Students

Coursework completed by students currently enrolled in the IMPACT Program or Residency@TCSJ are directly transferable to TCSJ for identical required coursework in the M.Ed. program.

Teaching Credential Graduates

Students who have graduated from the IMPACT Program or Residency@TCSJ within the last seven years will be awarded transfer credit as described for current students above. Students who graduated more than seven years prior to enrollment in the graduate school must submit transcripts for evaluation. Equivalencies will be granted for coursework as appropriate to current standards.

Students Transferring from other Teacher/Administrator Preparation Programs

Coursework completed from a regionally accredited college or university is eligible to be evaluated for transfer credit work with the following restrictions:

1. Only 8 units or less can be transferred (unless applying for a second credential).
2. Only courses completed within the last 7 years will be considered (unless applying for a second credential).
3. Only courses that qualify for graduate credit by an accredited institution can be transferred.
   *Exception: Integrated credential coursework completed as an undergraduate may be considered pending review of transcripts and course descriptions.
4. Only courses in which a grade of C or better is earned can be transferred.

Enrolled students must receive pre-approval prior to taking a course at another regionally accredited institution in order to have credits be considered as transferrable.

PROCEDURE

Students may submit transcripts and other requested documentation to the program director for review. Transfer credit will be granted on an individual basis and the program director will assign equivalencies (“E” grade, no units) for approved coursework only.

If needed, the program director shall consult with the President of TCSJ or an academic designee regarding granting equivalencies. The President has the authority to overrule policy.

Note: No transfer credit/equivalencies will be granted for any course in the Master’s Core. All students must complete a minimum of 17 units at TCSJ to be eligible for a Master’s in Education.

POLICY

Teachers College of San Joaquin has adopted the Academic Freedom Policy of the American Association of Graduate School Professors.  A thorough examination of the policy is available at https://www.aaup.org/our-programs/academic-freedom/resources-academic-freedom .

Academic Freedom Policy:

1. Faculty are entitled to full freedom in research and in the publication of the results, subject to the adequate performance of their other academic duties; research for pecuniary return should be based upon an understanding with the authorities of the institution.
2. Faculty are entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing their subject, but they should be careful not to introduce into their teaching controversial matter, which has no relation to their subject.
3. Faculty are citizens, members of a learned profession, and officers of an educational institution.  When they speak or write as citizens, they should be free from institutional censorship or discipline, but their special position in the community imposes special obligations.  As scholars and educational officers, they should remember that the public might judge their profession and their institution by their utterances.  Hence, they 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 they are not speaking for the Graduate School.

PROCEDURE

The TCSJ Strategic Leadership staff will be responsible for overseeing the protection of academic freedom within TCSJ.  Faculty members who believe that TCSJ has violated its academic freedom policy should document their complaint in writing and submit to the President.  The President will add this as an action item for the first Strategic Leadership meeting after the alleged violation.  Should the President and TCSJ Strategic Leadership staff agree that there was a violation of policy, they will agree upon the institution’s response.  The response should correct the violation and make changes to the procedures to ensure that violations to academic freedom do not occur in the future. If an agreement cannot be reached, the TCSJ President will present their findings to the Governing Board.  The decision of the Governing Board is final.

POLICY

Academic Performance Probation

Conduct and Disposition Probation

Progress Probation

PROCEDURE

1. Student receives a C- or lower, W, NP, NC or GPA lower than 3.0 and/or fails to show adequate performance or progress in program and/or violates the TCSJ Ethical and Professional Standards:
   
   Academic Performance or Progress/Conduct Probation: Warning Letter
   a. Warning Letter is sent instructing student to make an appointment with their advisor to discuss options and create a “Plan of Action and/or Timeline” to resolve the probation issue(s).
   b. Student will coordinate payment with student accounts if there is a financial implication, e.g. retake course.
   
   Conduct and Disposition Probation: Warning Letter
   a. In the event two or more TCSJ Teacher Candidate Disposition Concern Forms (Appendix D) are filed, the student will be placed on conduct probation.
   b. Warning Letter is sent instructing student to make an appointment with their advisor to discuss options and create a Plan of Action and/or Timeline to resolve the probation issue.


2. Student fails to address the Plan of Action and/or Timeline:
   
   Academic Performance, Progress and/or Conduct and Disposition Probation: Dismissal Warning Letter
   c. Dismissal Warning Letter is sent if student fails to meet with their advisor or address the action plan and adhere to timeline agreed upon with advisor.
   d. Students who remain on probation for more than one semester and/or receive three or more TCSJ Teacher Candidate Disposition Concern Forms may be referred to the Academic Review Committee (ARC) for further action.
   e. Student will acknowledge receipt of the Dismissal Warning Letter.
   f. Dismissal Warning Letter informs student of pending dismissal and their referral to the Academic Review Committee for final action.
   g. Dismissal Warning Letter informs student of pending dismissal and their referral to the Academic Review Committee for final action.
   h. Student will coordinate payment with student accounts if there is a financial implication.
   


3. Based upon the Academic Review Committee (ARC) decision, a written statement is sent notifying the student (and employer for interns):
   
   a. ARC grants student additional opportunity to rectify probation and extends an additional grace period. If student fails to meet the stipulations established by ARC the student will be dismissed from TCSJ.
   
   OR
   
   b. ARC initiates dismissal process: TCSJ directors and student accounts are notified, the files and database are updated to reflect dismissal.

POLICY

The Academic Review Committee (ARC) is to take action when a student’s non-compliance of TCSJ’s Policies and Procedures warrants a referral to the ARC, or a student lodges a complaint (e.g. requesting a grade reconsideration), appeal, or grievance.

PROCEDURES

Membership

The Academic Review Committee is comprised of:

1. a Chairperson, appointed by the President;
2. two full time faculty who are not a party to the case, but are familiar with TCSJ’s Policies and Procedures;
3. one adjunct faculty member who is not party to the case, but is familiar with TCSJ’s Policies and Procedures.

The ARC is charged with resolving cases of academic and non-academic concerns. The committee will interview, consult with, and/or request written documents from any individual believed to have relevant information of the concern, including faculty, staff and/or students. During the review process, all relevant information will be analyzed by the committee in relation to the TCSJ Policies and Procedures. Before their investigation is concluded, the student shall have an opportunity, if so desired, to be heard orally, present written witness statements, and/or provide additional information. Throughout the process, any party to whom the appeal is directed shall have the opportunity to present their perspective and/or witness statements along with relevant information. The process is not intended to mimic official court or other legal proceedings.

Upon completion of the committee meetings(s), the Chairperson will send written notification within 30 calendar days from the date of the committee meeting, stating the committee’s decision, which will be emailed to the student’s TCSJ email address and sent via US Postal Service.

POLICY

We strongly consider all applicants who apply to Teachers College of San Joaquin. The institution seeks students from diverse cultural, linguistic, and academic backgrounds, as well as those who come from a variety of work experiences. Applicants admitted to Teachers College of San Joaquin demonstrate strong potential for professional success in schools, academic and work-related achievement, and a commitment to inquiry.

Formal admission and acceptance to the College is required for applicants to enroll in post baccalaureate courses at Teachers College of San Joaquin. 

Requirements:

1. Completion of a four-year college course of study and a baccalaureate degree from an institution accredited by a regional accrediting association (except for Career Technical Education students);
2. Good academic standing at the last college or university attended (letter may be requested);
3. TCSJ applicants are required to submit both the TCSJ General Application and a specific program application.

All components of the application are considered for acceptance.  Satisfaction of minimal GPA standards does not guarantee admission.  Admission will be denied to applicants possessing bachelor’s degrees with a significant amount of credit awarded for work experience that was not supervised by a faculty member of an accredited university nor evaluated in units, which identify the academic content. 

Teachers College of San Joaquin is approved by the California State Approving Agency to enroll veterans and other eligible persons.

Additional Admission Information for IMPACT Intern Program or Residency@TCSJ:

Applicants with revoked credentials and/or credentials flagged with adverse actions will not be admitted to a credential program.  Once the applicant’s credential status is cleared or re-instated by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC), the applicant may petition for admission to the credential program by submitting a letter explaining the circumstances.  Each petition will be reviewed, and the applicant will be notified of the admission decision.

Applicants who were previously enrolled in another institution’s teacher preparation program must submit a letter of good standing from that institution’s Education Department.  The letter must be on institutional letterhead and signed by the Dean, department chair, director of teacher education or someone in an equivalent position.  Applicants from institutions that do not provide letters may petition for admission by submitting a letter explaining the circumstances.  Each petition will be reviewed, and the applicant will be notified of the admission decision. 

Admission into the Residency@TCSJ program is also dependent upon an interview selection process in collaboration with district partners.

Additional Admission Information for Graduate Studies – Administrative Credential or M.Ed. Programs

1. Excellent references from current employer (and other).
2. Strong letter of introduction from applicant that aligns to College mission.
3. A grade-point average of at least 2.5 (A = 4.0) in the last 60 semester (90 quarter) units attempted for undergraduate degree.

Applicants who are not admitted to TCSJ master’s program must wait a minimum of one year to reapply.

Clear Induction Administrative Program, Transfer from Another Program

Students who wish to transfer work from another California Commission Teacher Credentialing (CCTC) approved Clear Induction Administrative program will be granted equivalency if the applicant provides all documents with evidence of completion of work, such as Inquiries, Logs and Reflections.  A Letter of Good Standing (including work ethic and financial standing) from the previous program is required.

POLICY

Enrollment in a Teachers College of San Joaquin graduate program is required for students to be able to audit a course at TCSJ. No person shall attend any class unless they are a fully registered student enrolled in the course and meet the criteria for auditors.

PROCEDURES

Criteria for Auditors

1. Auditors will obtain the instructor’s consent prior to enrollment in the course(s).
2. The auditor understands that the instructor has the right to refuse audit requests.
3. Auditors agree to be observers rather than active participants.
4. Auditors will have excellent attendance in the course(s).
5. Auditors agree that they will not submit assignments.
6. Auditors understand that they will not receive a grade, credit, or feedback from the instructor.
7. The audited course(s) will appear on the auditor’s transcript with the grading symbol “AU”
8. The auditors will pay the current TCSJ Professional Learning Center (PLC) per unit cost.

No more than one auditor per ten fully enrolled students will be allowed in a course. If there are fewer than ten students no auditors will be registered. The instructor has full discretion regarding the auditor’s level of participation.

POLICY

Inactive

M.Ed. students who do not take classes for three consecutive semesters will be considered inactive. Students who remain inactive for four consecutive semesters will be withdrawn from the college. If a student is withdrawn, they will be required to reapply and follow the requirements of the TCSJ catalog for the academic year in which they are readmitted.

Leave of Absence

M.Ed. students who need to take a leave of absence from their curricular program will discuss this request with their program coordinator. M.Ed. students who are on leave for three consecutive semesters will be considered inactive.

Probation

See Academic Performance, Progress and/or Conduct and Disposition: Probation Policy.

Program Withdrawal

All TCSJ students are expected to make adequate progress towards completion of their program. Program withdrawals in IMPACT, Residency@TCSJ, Teaching and Administrator Induction are considered when there are extenuating circumstances and there is an agreement between the program and the student. When applicable, employers will also be consulted.

A student who voluntarily withdraws from their scheduled program, is required to complete a Program Withdrawal Form, and will have the balance of the tuition costs associated with their program recalculated at the current tuition rate for the courses started and/or completed at the time of withdrawal.

While employed as an IMPACT University Intern, students must maintain concurrent enrollment in the two-year sequence of courses leading to program completion.

IMPACT students who are no longer employed as the “Teacher of Record” will be considered withdrawn and their intern credential will be suspended.

POLICY

The following procedure applies if a student quits or loses their administrative position, or has a break in employment due to a leave of absence:

The student gains new administrative employment midway through the program:

• Another semester of coaching will likely be required for the student to meet all program requirements.
• The student will bear the cost of an additional semester of coaching.

The student takes a leave of absence for less than 2.5 months (one quarter):

• Coaching program end date will be extended by the same number of days as the gap/leave.
• The payment schedule will continue, uninterrupted.

Or, the student is not re-employed in an administrative position or the leave(s) of absence is more than 2.5 months (one quarter):

• Coaching program will stop and the student will be unenrolled from the program.
• The student will meet the agreed stipulations on original promissory note: “Should the Borrower withdraw from the Program (voluntarily or involuntarily), the tuition will be recalculated based on the nearest quarter completed.”

Any other leave of absence from the program will be granted on an individual basis and will result in the equivalent actions outlined above.

POLICY

Uniform Complaints

Complaints against Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) and/or an individual that relate to discrimination, harassment (except for sexual harassment), intimidation, bullying, retaliation, and/or which allege that TCSJ or an individual has violated federal or state laws or regulations governing educational programs will be processed under:

• San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) Uniform Complaint Procedure 1312.3 policies and procedures.

Sexual Harassment Complaints

Complaints against Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) and/or an individual (student or personnel) that relates to sexual harassment will be processed under:

• San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) Sexual Harassment (Students) AR 5145.7.

or

• Sexual Harassment (All Personnel) 4119.11 policies and procedures.

Other Student Complaints

Student complaints not addressed in the Uniform Complaint or Sexual Harassment policies and procedures outlined above, shall be addressed with the TCSJ Student Complaint Form found on the TCSJ website.

A submitted TCSJ Student Complaint Form shall be routed to the appropriate Program Director for review and action. The Program Director shall attempt to resolve the complaint with the student and record outcomes and actions taken on the TCSJ Student Complaint Form. A copy of the TCSJ Student Complaint Form and supporting documents (if applicable) shall be submitted to the President for possible further action.

PROCEDURE

Records of student and/or faculty complaints are maintained by the Office of the President, and when appropriate, will work collaboratively with the SJCOE to oversee and follow-up on the resolution for each complaint.

POLICY

Teachers College of San Joaquin shall be free from discrimination based on gender, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or the perception of one or more characteristics.

Teachers College of San Joaquin is part of the San Joaquin County Office of Education (SJCOE) and the policies and procedures of SJCOE.

PROCEDURE

Records of student and/or faculty complaints are also maintained by the Office of the President, who works collaboratively with the SJCOE to oversee the follow-up and resolution of each complaint.

POLICY

IMPACT Intern Credential Extensions

Teaching credential students who have not attempted all required assessments by the end of their program will not be eligible to apply for an extension of their intern credential.

An IMPACT intern student who does not complete the required coursework, and/or exams (e.g., Reading Instruction Competence Assessment-RICA) in four semesters is required to take a 5th or 6th semester of supervision while they attempt to complete the program requirements. All students must pass the final two consecutive semesters of supervision. Students will bear the cost of additional semesters of supervision. Note: Support Supervision is considered a course. Additionally, while working on an intern credential, students must continue to log support hours until all requirements are met.

POLICY

In accordance with federal regulations, Section 600.2 and 600.24, effective July 1, 2011, TCSJ equates one graduate credit hour to a total of 45 hours of work (includes classroom instruction and outside-of-class work). For purposes of this policy, one hour of work is assumed to be a 50 minute period.

Calculation of credit hour:

• Program Course: One graduate semester credit hour (or unit) is equal to a total of 15 hours of classroom or direct faculty instruction. In addition, 30 hours of outside-of-class work, or two hours per hour of seat time, is required.
• Clinical Practice/Practicum Courses: One graduate semester credit hour is equal to a minimum of 45 hours of fieldwork.
• Professional Learning: One professional learning credit hour (or unit) is equal to a total of 15 hours of seat time.

PROCEDURE

Initial establishment of course credit hours: When new courses are approved by the TCSJ Strategic Leadership Team and Academic Affairs Committee, course credit hours assigned will be evaluated for appropriateness based on a review of the course description, which includes student learning outcomes, texts, and other resources used, course requirements, and detailed course outlines.

Periodic review: Application of the Credit Hour Policy shall be reviewed and documented during the Academic Program Review process to ensure that credit hour assignments are accurate, reliable, and appropriate to graduate work. Evidence to support credit hour assignments includes course syllabi, course learning outcomes, assignment schedules, and class schedules identifying the times that classes meet (if applicable).

POLICY

The rights of students with disabilities — including, but not limited to those with learning disabilities, ADHD, chronic health conditions, traumatic brain injuries, hearing impairments, physical impairments, psychological disorders, visual impairments, other health impairments, and/ or any physiological disorder or condition — are protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). Teachers College of San Joaquin, as a public institution of higher education, is legally required to provide academic adjustments and reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities, under Title II of the ADA.

The purpose of these laws is to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities. A student with learning disabilities may need accommodations and/ or aids.

Faculty members are not required to lower academic requirements or to change fundamental learning outcomes of the course. The purpose of providing alternate assessment arrangements is to ensure that a fair measurement is made of the student’s achievement, not the functional limitations caused by the disability.

It is the responsibility of the student to understand their disability and communicate appropriate accommodations to staff and/or faculty; and, make timely arrangements for support services with the instructor.

Program directors coordinate support for students with disabilities so they may participate fully and not be excluded or denied access to any college program or activity on the basis of their disability. “No qualified individual with a disability shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any public entity” (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Sec 35.130 (a), Amended 2010). We also aim to help students who experience temporary medical conditions and injuries who may need accommodations. Furthermore, we are willing to consult with any student about services we provide.

For more information, please contact:

• Crescentia Thomas, Ed.D., Director of Graduate Studies
  Phone: (209) 468-9134, cthomas@sjcoe.net
• Michele Badovinac, M.A., Director, IMPACT Credentials
  Phone: (209) 468-9141, mbadovinac@sjcoe.net
• Danielle Daubin, M.Ed., Academic Review Committee Chair
  Phone: (209) 468-9172, ddaubin@sjcoe.net

POLICY

Dismissal from TCSJ may occur due to:

1. Inadequate Academic Performance
2. Inadequate Progress
3. Failure to demonstrate appropriate conduct and/or dispositions
4. Failure to adhere to the TCSJ Ethical and Professional Standards

Violence, threats of violence, intimidation, stalking, and similar behaviors towards P-12 students, college students, faculty, and/or TCSJ employees on the part of students shall lead to immediate dismissal from the program.

An IMPACT intern student who is dismissed or non-re-elected from their employment will be considered for dismissal from the IMPACT program by the Academic Review Committee (ARC). A student who resigns or is dismissed from their employment a second time may be dismissed from the IMPACT program. Students who are placed on administrative leave may also be referred to the Academic Review Committee for review regarding dismissal.

IMPACT intern students are dismissed if they fail to receive a passing grade during any two semesters of Support Supervision. Failure to complete a semester of supervision due to dismissal by employer results in a No-Pass for the course. Intern students will not exceed a total of 6 semesters of supervision.

The reason(s) for a student’s pending dismissal will be identified by the administrator(s) of the program and referred to the Academic Review Committee (ARC) for final decisions. The decision by the Academic Review Committee is final.

Students who are dismissed by ARC will have tuition prorated based on percentage of course/s completed per the date of dismissal. Full tuition charges will incur if a student has completed more than 80% of course/s.

PROCEDURES

See procedure for the Academic Performance, Progress and/or Conduct and Disposition: Probation Policy

POLICY

Valuing diversity is about respecting one another’s differences. All members of the TCSJ academic community of students, staff, administrators and faculty will be respected for the experiences and expertise they bring to our institution. Everyone has the right to an educational environment free of fear for their personal safety and no person shall be denied access to, or participation in any program or activity operated by TCSJ. Teachers College of San Joaquin does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, color, religion, religious creed, age, marital status, or disability.

POLICY

TCSJ students in the Master’s, Administrative Preliminary, or Mathematics Instructional Added Authorization (MIAA) are able to drop a course before the start of the second class session without incurring course tuition costs. Dropped courses will not appear on the student’s transcript.

PROCEDURE

Students who wish to drop a course are required to complete and submit a Course Drop Form before the beginning of the second class session to the Graduate Studies Office.

POLICY

Equivalency for a second master’s will be granted from first master’s coursework, including: CURR321, CURR341, CURR343, and CURR345; or CURR301-CURR305.

Requirements for earning a double (or second) master’s degree in education include:

1. 1. Completion of all elective coursework unique to the second concentration.
   2. Completion of a second review of literature aligned to the project/portfolio for the second concentration. The student will work independently to complete the review of literature. The student’s project advisor will provide one edit of the paper and the student will make revisions based on the feedback/edits provided. If, upon the second submission to the advisor, the review is found to be substandard, the student will enroll in the course CURR384 or CURR305 to complete the review. The student will pay full tuition for the 2-unit course.
   3. Completion of a second project/portfolio aligned to the second concentration.

POLICY

Eligibility to participate in the annual TCSJ Commencement ceremony is determined in April of each year.

Intern Teaching Candidates

• Be on track to successfully complete all required coursework by the scheduled end of the program;
• Be on track to successfully complete all required Supervision by the scheduled end of the program;
• Be on track to successfully complete all required Support Logs by the scheduled end of the program;
• Have both Cycles of the CalTPA submitted by April 1 (as applicable);
• Have passed the RICA or must have taken it at least twice by April 1 (as applicable);
• Be current with financial obligations.

M.Ed. Candidates

To be eligible to participate, Master’s in Education candidates must:

• Be on track to successfully complete all required coursework by August 15;
• Be on track to successfully complete all requirements for the master’s project by August 15;
• Be current with financial obligations.

MIAA and Preliminary Administrative Services Credential

To be eligible to participate, candidates in the Mathematics Instructional Added Authorization and Preliminary Administrative Services Credential must:

• Be on track to successfully complete all required coursework by August 15;
• Be current with financial obligations.

Residency@TCSJ

To be eligible to participate residents must:

• Be on track to successfully complete all required coursework by the scheduled end of the program;
• Be on track to successfully complete all required clinical fieldwork by the scheduled end of the program;
• Have both Cycles of the CalTPA submitted by April 1 (as applicable);
• Have passed the RICA or be scheduled to retake it before May 1 (as applicable);
• Be current with financial obligations.

POLICY

Students are expected to follow the TCSJ’s Ethical and Professional Standards in all coursework and fieldwork.

Violence, threats of violence, intimidation, stalking, and similar behaviors towards P-12 students, college students, faculty, and/or TCSJ employees on the part of students shall lead to immediate dismissal from the program.

TCSJ Professional Dispositions:

TCSJ Students will…

1. Demonstrate openness to critical assessment of progress.
2. Believe that all students can learn. Students seek to meet the diverse needs of all students, including English learners and students with special needs.
3. Value diversity and advocates for social justice: “Shall not on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, national origin, marital status, political or religious beliefs, family, social culture background or sexual orientation unfairly exclude any student from participation in any program, deny benefits to any student or grant any advantage to any student.
4. Maintain flexibility in planning and implementing instruction to meet the needs of all students.
5. Demonstrate initiative and reliability in successfully completing the program requirements, including coursework, fieldwork, lesson planning, instruction, and daily classroom routines (as appropriate to program).
6. Make satisfactory progress in meeting requirements.
7. Reflect and self-assesses to improve practice.
8. Collaborate effectively.
9. Handle confidential information professionally. A student shall not disclose information about students or faculty obtained in the course of professional service unless such disclosure serves a compelling professional purpose or is required by law. A student shall not misrepresent, orally or in writing, issues related to students, faculty, classrooms or the college programs.
10. Maintain an appropriate professional appearance.
11. Agree to treat one another (other students, faculty and staff) with mutual trust and respect, promote the success of the individual and the group as a whole, and refrain from behavior that is disruptive, offensive or reflects bias of any kind.

Effective Communication

1. Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, in college, public school, and educational community related contexts with professionals and colleagues.
2. Deal effectively and professionally with disagreements.

Punctuality, Late Assignments, Preparedness

1. Meet deadlines for assignments.
2. Notify supervisor/faculty in advance of absences and makes appropriate arrangements for classroom activities/instruction during absences.
3. Attend courses regularly and punctually.

Academic Integrity:

1. Plagiarism – For the purposes of TCSJ, the definition of plagiarism is adopted from the American Psychological Association Ethics Code Standard 8.11 (APA, 2010). Students who “…present the work of another as if it were their own work are guilty of plagiarism. Whether paraphrasing, quoting an author directly, or describing an idea that influenced the work, students must credit the source.” (p. 170).
   • All members of this learning community agree to maintain personal and academic integrity including refraining from plagiarism.
   • If faculty or staff allege that a student is guilty of plagiarism:
     • The instructor and student will meet to discuss the circumstances of the offense.
     • The instructor will consult with the program director to determine course of action, which will include one of the following:
       1. Failure of the assignment with or without ability to resubmit;
       2. Failure of the course;
       3. Referral to the Academic Review Committee
   • If student is referred to the Academic Review Committee, they may receive a range of penalties, including failure of an assignment, failure of the course, suspension (e.g. for a semester), or dismissal from TCSJ. This committee will decide on the appropriate penalty. Prior violation/s of college policy by the student may result in a more serious sanction. In these cases, the decision of the Academic Review Committee is final and binding on all parties. More information on avoiding plagiarism can be found at www.plagiarism.org and in the APA 7th Edition Manual.
2. Examinations and Quizzes – Students may not give, receive, or use unauthorized assistance during an examination, from another person’s notes or other communication.
3. Coursework – Students may not present the same work for credit in more than one course. Students must acknowledge (cite) all sources of assistance, whether published or unpublished, that are used in writing a report or paper.

Health and Safety

The San Joaquin County Superintendent prohibits the use of tobacco products at any time in any San Joaquin County Office Education (SJCOE) owned or leased buildings, on SJCOE property and in SJCOE vehicles.

These prohibitions apply to all employees, students and visitors at any school sponsored instructional program, activity, or athletic event held on or off SJCOE property.

Prohibited products include any product containing cannabis, tobacco or nicotine, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew, clove cigarettes, betel and nicotine delivery devices such as electronic cigarettes, electronic hookahs and other vapor emitting devices, with or without nicotine content, that mimics the use of tobacco products any time. Exceptions may be made for the use or possession of prescription nicotine products, or other FDA-approved cessation aids such as nicotine patches or nicotine gum.

POLICY

All members of the TCSJ teaching community including, full-time and affiliate instructors, supervisors, and department administration are expected to attend and participate in faculty meetings each year.  These meetings provide a valuable opportunity to meld theory and practice, as well as create an important opportunity for collaboration between and across disciplines. 

TCSJ also encourages all faculty members to disseminate their work through publications and presentations at local, state and national events. 

Support may be provided for travel and/or conference fees for faculty members whose submissions are accepted for presentation at meetings and conferences.

Support may also be provided to faculty when the event is directly related to their TCSJ responsibilities. 

PROCEDURE

Faculty members must submit a written request (via Email) to the program director, for approval by the TCSJ Leadership Team, at least one month prior to the requested travel.

POLICY

All teaching faculty (instructors) are required to fulfill the following requirements for the Teachers College of San Joaquin (TCSJ) Faculty Evaluation, including:

Post-Course Requirements:

1. All instructors will respond in writing to course evaluations for each course taught using the Evaluation Response Form. Appropriate members of the TCSJ Leadership team will review evaluations and responses for all courses taught by instructors.

1. Each designated instructor team will examine program learning and course learning outcomes, determine needed course adjustments, and identify student work for program review analysis. A Course Development Worksheet will be completed as a collaborative effort by the  designated team and submitted to the Director of Graduate Studies and Research or Director of IMPACT.

Biennial Requirement:

1. Beginning with the initial course assignment and every other year thereafter, each instructor will complete the Instructor Evaluation Process.  

If there are unresolved concerns about the instructor’s practice, they will be observed by a program coordinator and/or director during each course offering until concerns are rectified, or it is determined the instructor is not suitable for employment.

All components of the instructor evaluation process will inform decisions regarding continued assignment.

PROCEDURES

Post Course Requirements:

1. Course Evaluations

1. Students will be notified and provided access to the course evaluation.
2. Within 10 days of the course ending (or 10 days after student submission of course materials), the instructor reviews the course evaluation results and submits the Evaluation Response Form with all end-of-course materials to the program coordinator.
3. The program coordinators and/or directors will examine the summary data and review the Evaluation Response Form.
4. Concerns which arise from the course evaluation data and/or the Evaluation Response Form will be addressed by the program coordinator and/or director.

1. Course Development Worksheet

1. Annually, each designated instructor team will examine program learning and course learning outcomes, determine needed course adjustments, and identify student work for the upcoming cycle of the TCSJ program review analysis.
2. A Course Development Worksheet will be shared with the coordinator of each program and accessible to the Institutional Evaluator as evidence of the continuous improvement process.

Biennial Requirement for Instructor Evaluation:

1. TCSJ Observation of Practice – Essentials for Teaching: A Guide for Instructor Reflection

1. Instructor will choose two areas of focus from the guide.
2. Coordinator or director of the program will collect a reflective document based on one of the following options:
3.   Instructor will video a lesson and complete a self-reflection based on the areas of focus.
4. Instructor will invite a full-time TCSJ faculty member to observe a lesson  and conduct a debrief based on the focus areas.

iii. Instructor will invite a TCSJ colleague to observe a lesson and conduct a debrief based on the focus areas.

1. Instructor will be observed once every two years unless concerns arise.
2. If concerns arise, instructor will be formally observed once during each course offering until concerns are rectified, or it is determined the instructor is not suitable for employment.

POLICY

Faculty Members fall into one of two categories:

Full Time: 100% of their time is devoted to TCSJ and they serve as members of the TCSJ Leadership Team.

Affiliate/Adjunct: Teach a minimum of one course per year and/or may serve as a Support Supervisor or Coach.  Affiliate faculty members are temporary SJCOE employees and do not serve as members of the TCSJ Leadership Team, although they may be invited to participate as guests, on occasion.

All faculty members, regardless of status, are expected to participate in faculty meetings.

All employees of Teachers College of San Joaquin are employees of San Joaquin County Office of Education and therefore adhere to the policies and procedures outlined in the San Joaquin County Office of Education Human Resources Staff Manual available in the TCSJ Administration Office.

POLICY

Faculty “No Show”

Faculty are expected to hold classes on the scheduled dates and times, as stated on the course syllabus. When circumstances require the cancellation of a class, the faculty member shall make an effort to notify students. It is the responsibility of the student to regularly check their TCSJ email for such announcements.

When a faculty member is late in arriving to class, students must wait a full 20 minutes after the start of class before leaving without being counted absent. If written notice regarding the anticipated tardiness and/or absence of the faculty member is received, students are required to follow all conveyed instructions.

POLICY

All courses are expected to be completed at mastery level. Mastery in coursework is determined to be a grade of “C” or better. Course instructors are solely responsible for the determination of course grades. Instructors should clearly define grading criteria on the syllabus including the effect of attendance on the final course grade. Grades must be entered through the password-protected student information system within 10 business days of the last class.

• Grade A – Outstanding knowledge and application of course content; assignments turned in on time and reflect professionalism, effort and application above and beyond minimum course requirements.
• Grade B – Good knowledge and application of course content; assignments reflect professionalism, effort and application of course requirements.
• Grade C – Satisfactory knowledge and application of course content; assignments not typically reflective of graduate level expectations.
• Grade C- – Courses must be retaken and results in students’ placement on Academic Probation for all grades of C-or below.
• Grade D or F – All courses must be retaken and results in student placement on Academic Probation.
• P/NP – Pass (P) – Pass (P) awards units for successful completion. No Pass (NP) results in academic probation and course must be repeated.
• CR/NC – The grade of Credit (CR) is issued for a course that awards transcript credit but does not impact academic progress. No Credit (NC) does not require repeat of course.
• Grade I – Incomplete (See Incomplete information below)
• Grade W – Withdrawal (See Withdrawal information below)
• WA – Withdrawal Administrative (No penalty, extenuating circumstances)
• E – Equivalency granted for prior coursework
• AU – Audit, no units earned (See Audit Policy)

INC – Incomplete

An Incomplete is granted at the discretion of the instructor. The instructor will notify the program coordinator or director when assigning an Incomplete.

An Incomplete is changed to the grade earned if work is not completed within the timeframe as agreed upon with the instructor. The grade earned will be based on the entirety of the course with incomplete work calculated as zeros. If the grade becomes a failing grade, the student must contact the program coordinator or director, re-enroll in the course, and assume responsibility for all fees associated with repeating the course.

Graduate Studies withdrawal: (W)

Students who are in the Administrative Preliminary, Master’s, Mathematics Instructional Added Authorization and Residency@TCSJ programs can withdraw from a course up to 50% of completion to earn a grade of W. After this point, students who withdraw will earn the cumulative grade based on the entirety of the course with incomplete work calculated as zeros. If a grade of C- or lower is earned, the student will be placed on academic probation (see Academic Performance, Progress, and/or Conduct and Disposition: Probation Policy and Procedures). Students who withdraw after the start of the second session will incur full tuition for the course, as well as for the same course if it is retaken.

If a student in the Residency@TCSJ program withdraws from any courses, the student will be withdrawn from the program. If the student re-applies and is accepted into the program in the future, the courses that were previously completed may be granted equivalencies upon approval of the program coordinator.

Procedure:

1. Students who wish to withdraw from a course are required to complete a Graduate Studies Course Withdrawal Form.
2. The program will assign a grade of W for up to 50% of completion.
3. After 51% of completion in a course, the grade will be based on the entirety of the course with incomplete work calculated as zeros.
4. Students will need to meet with the program advisor to design a new course plan.

IMPACT Withdrawal: (W)

While employed as an IMPACT University Intern, students must maintain concurrent enrollment in the two-year sequence of courses leading to program completion. All IMPACT students are expected to make adequate progress towards completion of their program. Course withdrawals are only considered when there are extenuating circumstances and there is an agreement between the program and the student (and the employer for credential students) that the withdrawal is in the best interest of the student. Students who withdraw after the start of the second session will incur full tuition for the course, as well as for the same course if it is retaken.

Procedure:

1. Students who wish to withdraw from a course are required to complete a Course Withdrawal Form before the beginning of the second class session.
2. The program will assign a grade of W for up to 50% of completion.
3. Grades for students who withdraw after the start of the second session will be based on the entirety of the course with incomplete work calculated as zeros.
4. Students will be rescheduled for the next available course offering which may delay the student’s ability to complete the program in a timely manner.

Withdrawal Administrative: (WA)

Students who have extenuating personal or professional circumstances may request a withdrawal. Administrative withdrawals are only considered when the withdrawal period has passed and there are extenuating circumstances (out of the control of the student) which make completion of the course impossible. This grade is up to the discretion of the Director and carries no penalty.

Grade Challenge:

If a student disagrees with a grade, they must meet with the course instructor to discuss the disagreement within 20 calendar days of receipt of the grade. If the issue is not successfully resolved as a result of that meeting, the student may meet with the Program Coordinator to mediate the situation. If the issue is still not successfully resolved, the student may file a written Request for Reconsideration, which should clearly describe the nature of the disagreement and resolution sought. The Request for Reconsideration must be filed with the Program Director within 10 days following the meeting with the course instructor. The Program Director will provide a copy of the Request for Reconsideration to the course instructor for response. The Academic Review Committee Chair will convene the Academic Review Committee (ARC) for review of all documents and the ARC will make a decision within 30 days or prior to the next time the course is offered, whichever is sooner. The decision of the Academic Review Committee is final and binding on all parties.

Support Supervision or Fieldwork is a course in the teacher credential program and a Support Supervisor is the instructor of record for these courses. The same process applies as stated above for a grade challenge for Support Supervision or Fieldwork related coursework.

1. 1. Review of enrollment histories must be conducted on an ongoing basis to anticipate any cases of potential low enrollment.
   2. Course schedules must be developed with the knowledge of enrollment histories.
   3. Classes are subject to cancellation when enrollment falls below the minimum of 4 in the 300-level, 6 in the 200-level, and 15 in the 100-level courses.
   4. Students and faculty must be notified at least 2 weeks prior to the beginning of their scheduled class and will be directed to contact the program advisor.
   5. Program advisors must be aware of alternative plans to provide students with guidance for appropriate completion of the program due to cancellation of a course.
   6. If a class is canceled due to low enrollment at a specific location, students may be enrolled at the alternate location (or provided a distance learning option, if available).
   7. Note: Exceptions to the cancellation of classes may be made by the President of TCSJ.

Pursuant to Education Code 44463, IMPACT Intern Candidates will be able to change employers at the completion of the academic year if offered an appropriate intern position in a different partnering district.

Candidates will not be allowed to change employers mid-year without prior approval from the TCSJ Program Director and written permission from the current employer, officially releasing the candidate from contractual obligations.

Candidates who leave their intern assignment without approval prior to the end of the academic year (due to dismissal or candidate choice) will be withdrawn from all coursework and their intern credential will be suspended. Withdrawn candidates may submit a petition for re-enrollment during the fall enrollment period. All re-enrollment petitions will be reviewed by the Academic Review Committee (ARC). All ARC decisions are final.

POLICY

Supervised clinical practice is a course. Anytime a student earns a grade of NP (No Pass), W (Withdrawal) or WA (Withdrawal Administrative), the course must be repeated in order to meet program requirements.

• When a student receives a No Pass (NP) in the course, they will receive more than 6 supervision visits during the following semester.
• IMPACT Intern students are dismissed if they fail any 2 semesters of supervised clinical practice (aka Support Supervision).
• All students must pass the final 2 consecutive semesters of supervision.
• IMPACT Intern students will not exceed a total of 6 semesters of supervised clinical practice.
• General Education students who require re-enrollment, must be concurrently re-enrolled in Practicum.
• The student will bear all associated enrollment and re-enrollment costs in accordance with withdrawal and dismissal policies (See Dismissal from TCSJ and Grades – IMPACT Withdrawal Policies).
• Re-enrollment in supervised clinical practice will delay the student’s ability to complete the program and will require an extension of the intern credential.

To earn a passing grade and credit for supervised clinical practice IMPACT students must be formally evaluated a minimum of 6 times per semester over the course of at least 12 instructional weeks. In the event a student is unable to provide classroom instruction for a minimum of 12 weeks, it may not be possible to complete the required number of supervision visits.

When a student is placed on a corrective action for supervised clinical practice, they will receive more than 6 supervision visits during the semester in which the corrective action is issued and the following semester. Therefore, if extended leave takes place during or immediately following the semester in which a corrective action was issued, a “W” will be assigned if the student is not in the classroom for a minimum of 15 weeks.

During the semester immediately following the issuance of a NP a student must be able to provide classroom instruction for a minimum of 15 weeks.

PROCEDURE

Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)-Extended Leave

• When a student requests extended leave for FMLA purposes and is unable to provide instruction for 12 weeks in a given semester and/or is not able to be observed at least 6 times, the student will receive a “W” (Withdrawal) in the course for the semester. (A “W” is not a passing or failing grade. It indicates a withdrawal.)
  • During the additional semester of enrollment, students must meet the minimum number of 6 visits per semester and at least 12 weeks of instruction.
  • If extended leave takes place during or immediately following the semester in which a corrective action was issued, a “W” will be assigned if the student is not able to provide classroom instruction for a minimum of 15 weeks.
  • Students must meet with the program coordinator to develop a re-enrollment plan as soon as an extended leave becomes necessary. All re-enrollment processes will be aligned to the policy stated above.

Administrative Leave

• When a student is placed on administrative leave, preventing them from being formally evaluated a minimum of 6 times during a semester over the course of at least 12 instructional weeks, the student will receive a NP (no pass) in the course for the semester.
• If Administrative leave takes place during or immediately following the semester in which a corrective action was issued, a “NP” will be assigned if the student is not able to provide classroom instruction for a minimum of 15 weeks.
  • Students must meet with the program coordinator to develop a plan and discuss re-enrollment as soon as they are placed on leave.
  • All re-enrollment processes will be aligned to the policy stated above.
  • When a student receives a non-passing (NP) grade in the course, they will receive more than 6 supervision visits during the following semester.
  • During the semester immediately following the issuance of a non-passing grade a student must be able to provide classroom instruction for a minimum of 15 weeks.

Candidate Dismissal

• When a student is dismissed by the University or employer, preventing them from completing a semester, the student will earn a NP (non pass) in the course for the semester.

Withdrawal Administrative

• Students who have extenuating personal or professional circumstances may request a withdrawal. Administrative withdrawals are only considered when the withdrawal period has passed and there are extenuating circumstances (out of the control of the student) which make completion of the course impossible. This grade is up to the discretion of the Director and carries no penalty.

POLICY

Teachers College of San Joaquin is approved by the California State approved Agency to enroll veterans and other eligible persons. https://www.calvet.ca.gov/CSAAVE

In accordance with requirements set by the VA, TCSJ will maintain a written record of the previous education and training (e.g. transcripts) of veterans and eligible persons. The record will clearly indicate if credit has been granted and candidates will be notified accordingly per CFR 21.4253 (d)(3).  https://www.va.gov

The following information is also provided to individuals covered under VA benefits, chapter 30, 31, 32, 33, or 35 of title 38, U.S.C. or chapter 1606 of title 10, U.S.C., as required under Section 1018 of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-315).  A TCSJ Personalized Shopping Booklet is available to all new students upon enrollment and if necessary, is updated within 15 days after board approval of annual tuition and fees changes.

TCSJ agrees to:

• Inform an enrolled covered individual of the availability of federal financial aid, not administered by VA that is offered by the institution. Information is available on the TCSJ Website and in the Course Catalog.
• Alert the individual of the potential eligibility for other federal financial aid before packaging or arranging student loans or alternative financing.  Students receive a promissory note with information on expectations for tuition payments.
• Prohibit automatic renewal of a covered individual in a course and/or programs.
• Ensure each covered individual approves of the enrollment in a course. Students sign a form during advisement as well sign a promissory note upon enrollment.
• Allow enrolled members of the Armed Forces, including reserve components and National Guard to be readmitted if such members are temporarily unavailable or must suspend enrollment by reason of serving in the Armed Forces.
• Accommodate short absences for such services in the Armed Forces.
• Provide covered individuals the requirements for graduation and a graduation timeline. Students are provided this information during advisement and orientation meetings.
• Obtain approval of the respective accrediting agencies for each new course or program:
  • Teachers College of San Joaquin is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
  • Credential Programs offered at TCSJ are fully accredited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CCTC).
• Designate an employee of the educational institution to serve as a point of contact for covered individuals and family members seeking assistance with: 
• Academic Counseling: Program Coordinator/Advisor
• Financial Counseling: Student Accounts
• Disability Counseling: Program Coordinator/Advisor
• Other information regarding completing a course of education at the education institution: Program Coordinator/Advisor