Back See this section in context: Criterion 1 Core Component 1E

1E.3: Maintains Clear and Fair Policies

Sauk protects its integrity by maintaining policies that describe the rights and responsibilities of its constituencies, mandating procedures that protect those rights, and making that information available to the public. Board policy is carried out in a variety of processes and practices:

Student-Related Policies and Practices:

• Academic policy: In order to treat students consistently and fairly, Sauk has established a number of pertinent policies, which can be found in the online college catalog. For example, the Admission and Placement Policy ensures that students enroll in courses for which they have the needed skills and abilities. The Academic Appeals Policy ensures that students have recourse if they believe they have been treated unfairly.
• Student code of conduct: Expectations regarding student conduct are described in several policies. The Students Rights & Responsibilities Statement indicates that students are expected to be responsible and follow ethical standards of behavior to maintain a safe environment that supports the educational process. The Student Code of Conduct & Disciplinary Practices clearly states that students must adhere to all college policies, rules, and regulations and describes the disciplinary actions that may result for violations.
• Financial aid policy: Information pertaining to the application, distribution, and eligibility requirements for public and private funds is available on the Sauk website. Related policies, such as Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy, Loan Policies, and Return of Title IV Funds Policy, ensure that students understand their rights and responsibilities.

Employee-Related Policies and Practices:

• Hiring process: The Human Resources Office adheres to a hiring process outlined in the Job Posting and Hiring Guide, which is posted on FAST. This documented process includes membership guidelines for cross-departmental screening committees, conducting reference and background checks, and final employee placement. In addition, all new hires undergo a standard orientation that describes Sauk and its Mission; provides training in various essential expectations (privacy and sexual harassment policies, for example); and clarifies compensation and benefits choices.
• Contract: Full-time and adjunct faculty must agree to abide by the Contractual Agreements between the Board and the Sauk Faculty Association or the Adjunct Faculty Association, which establish working conditions and compensation. The contracts are posted on FAST.
• Employee handbooks: Separate handbooks are maintained for full-time faculty, adjunct faculty, professional/technical and support staff, and administrators. Although employee handbooks had become outdated, drafts of new digital versions are ready for input from the campus community.  When approved, the handbooks will cover a variety of policies and practices, personnel matters, and college forms.

Sauk’s Co-curricular Organizations:

• Athletics: The Athletic Department abides by all NJCAA policies and procedures in offering ten sports with about 140 athletes each year. The Athletic Director and coaches conduct an all-athlete orientation at the beginning of each academic year to inform athletes of their rights and responsibilities under NJCAA and college regulations. Student athletes sign documentation that they have reviewed and understand the policies. As of FY11, an athletic handbook has been created.
• Clubs and organizations: To maintain their status as active organizations, student groups must adhere to college guidelines published in The Student Organization Manual. Requirements and procedures are provided for club formation; activities and travel; participation in Student Government, and financial accountability. The Dean of Student Services conducts an orientation meeting at the beginning of each academic year for club advisors and officers to clarify the rights and responsibilities under these regulations.