Academic Freedom

Coastal Pines Technical College (CPTC) supports the concept of academic freedom in accordance with State Board policy (5.1.1p  Academic Freedom). CPTC safeguards and protects these rights of academic freedom by providing faculty and students the right to initiate grievance procedures should they have complaints dealing with the infringement of or personal penalization as the result of the exercise of this freedom.

To ensure academic freedom, any faculty member or student who believes his/her academic freedom has been violated may present a written complaint to the Vice President for Academic Affairs within seven (7) business days of the alleged incident. If the complaint is against the Vice President for Academic Affairs, the written complaint will be filed with the Vice President for Student Affairs. The complaint must contain a brief description of the alleged incident, relief requested, and the signature of the complainant. Within ten (10) business days of the complaint, an informal resolution will be attempted. If an informal resolution is not made, an investigation will be conducted and completed within 30 days by the appropriate Vice President.

At the conclusion of the investigation, a written report will be made presenting the findings of fact, investigative conclusions, and any recommended actions, if appropriate. If the complainant is not satisfied with the investigation report, he/she may present a written appeal to the President of CPTC stating the reasons for disagreement. The President will review the complaint and render a decision regarding a resolution within 30 days. If the complaint is against the President, the appeal will be filed with the Assistant Commissioner, Technical Education. The decision of the President or Assistant Commissioner is final.