Basic Hydraulics Syllabus for 2021-2022
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Instructor Information

Course Information

COVID-19 Protocols

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Student Service Center office 112. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

The Tutoring for Success policy applies to any student whose grade or performance in the course falls below a departmentally determined minimum threshold. In either of those cases, the instructor will direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. Under this policy, the instructor will follow specific departmental guidelines governing the use, duration, and grade component of the tutoring need.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

DEMR-1316-010 Basic Hydraulics

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: AUMT 1491

Course Description

Fundamentals of hydraulics including components and related systems

Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 2 lec, 2 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

1. Heavy Duty Systems 2e Textbook ISBN:  9781284150933
2. Diesel Engines 1e Textbook           ISBN: 9781284067057
3. Systems 2e Online Access Code – 1 Year.  ISBN:  9781284267747
4. Diesel Engines 1e Online Access Code – 1 Year.  ISBN:  9781284191820
5. Preferred Fundamentals of Automotive Technology Online – 1 Year  ISBN:   9781284169478

Supplies

 

Every student will be required to wear an approved AC logo shirt or a shirt with the company logo that the student works for, to both class and lab. Pants will be respectable and wore properly, waist up around the waist where they belong.  Safety glasses are the responsibility of the student and will be worn at all times while in the shop/lab environment. Clean up materials will be supplied as needed. Special tools will be supplied as needed. Safety shoes/boots, with slip resistance soles. Steel toes not required. No regular tennis shoes allowed.

Tools are required to be brought to class by the student. Necessary tools and equipment are provided for in class use for assigned class and lab projects.

Tools are required for student employment during program and before graduation. Tool Purchase Opportunities with discounts at Mac, Snap-on and Western Equipment will be given and encouraged.

Cost for these tools and boxes average $1500.00 - $2000.00. You are responsible for purchasing these tools before graduation.

Required professional and safety attire is mandatory for class and laboratory participation.

This list will be required for all AUMT and DEMR classes

Required	Optional
Adjustable Wrenches - 6" and 12"	Chisel Set
Allen Wrench Set - Standard (.050" - 3/8")	Crowfoot Wrench Set - Metric
Allen Wrench Set - Metric (2mm - 7mm)	Crowfoot Wrench Set - Standard
Combination Wrenches: Standard (1/4" - 1")	Hack Saw and blades
Combination Wrenches: Metric (7mm - 19mm)	Drill- 3/8" and 1/2" variable speed, reversible
16 oz. Ball Peen	Brass Soft Faced
Dead Blow	Rubber Mallet
Mallet Plastic Tip Sledge 2lb	Impact Wrenches - 3/8" and 1/2"
Flare Nut (tubing) Wrenches:                Standard 3/8" - 3/4"	Hose Clamp Pliers
Flare Nut (tubing) Wrenches:                         Metric 10mm - 17mm	Locking Jaw Needle Nose
Penlight	Punch Set
Inspection Mirror	External Set:                                                                     E-4, E-5, E-6, E-8, E-10, E-12, E-14, E16 Torx®
Pickup Tool - magnetic and claw type	Tamper Proof Set:  T8, T10, T15, T20, T27, T30, T40, T45, T50, T55
Plier Combinations 8”	Screw Extractor Set
Side Cutters 6”	⅜ Drive Universal Joint
Slip Joint (Water Pump) 8”	1/4 Drive Universal Joint
Needle Nose Pliers 8”	1/2Drive Universal Joint
Wire Strippers and Crimpers 16-22AWG	Impact Sockets ⅜ drive:  3/8" - 3/4" shallow 3/8" - 3/4" deep
Snap Ring Plier Set - internal and external	Impact Sockets ⅜ drive:  10mm-19mm shallow 10mm-19mm deep
Screwdriver - Blade Type: Stubby 6", 9", 12"	1/2" Drive:    Impact Sockets Standard 7/16" - 1 1/8" Shallow  Impact Sockets Standard 7/16" - 1 1/8" Deep
Screwdrivers - Phillips:                              Stubby #1, #2 6" #1, #2 12" #3	1/2" Drive:   Impact Sockets 12mm - 32mm Shallow Impact Sockets 12mm - 32mm Deep
Torx® Set: T-8, T-10, T-15, T-20, T-25, T-27, T-30, T-40, T-50, T-55 Torx®	Torque Wrenches (Sound/Click)Type:  3/8" Drive in. lb. (30 - 250)
Standard Socket Set - 1/4" Drive:  1/4" - 1/2" shallow  1/4" - 1/2" Deep	Torque Wrenches (Sound/Click)Type:  3/8" Drive ft. lb. (5 - 75)
Metric Socket Set - 1/4" Drive: 6mm - 12mm shallow  6mm - 12mm Deep	Torque Wrenches (Sound/Click)Type: 1/2" Drive ft. lb. (50 - 250)
¼ drive: 3", 6" Extensions	Files - for steel and aluminum
¼ drive: Ratchet
Socket Set - 3/8" Drive:  5/16" - 3/4" Shallow  3/8" - 3/4" Deep	Automotive Air Conditioning Gauge set
Socket Set - 3/8" Drive: 9mm - 19mm Shallow  9mm - 19mm Deep	A/C probe type thermometer
3/8" Drive:                                                                            3", 6", 12", 18" Extensions
3/8" Drive: Ratchet
Socket Set - 1/2" Drive:  7/16" - 1 1/8"Shallow  7/16" - 1 1/8" Deep
Socket Set - 1/2" Drive:   10mm - 25mm Shallow  10mm - 25mm Deep
1/2" Drive:   5", 10" Extensions
1/2" Drive:  Ratchet
Vernier Caliper (Dial or Digital)
Tape Measure
Pry Bar Set
Safety Glasses
Blowgun
Gasket scraper
Thickness Gauge Set
Automotive Digital Multimeter
Lockable Roll around Toolbox or Tool cart
Closed Toe, Non-slip work shoes or boots
AC Automotive or Diesel  Logo Shirt

Student Performance

An introduction to basic principles of hydraulics  The student will get hands on experience on hydraulic components and systems; read and interpret technical manuals; and identify hydraulic components, diagnose and repair hydraulic systems.

 

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Maturity, honesty and respect is required and given.

Daily Cleaning of your work area and teamwork is required.

 

As a participating student in Amarillo College Technical Programs, you will be expected to act, perform and train in a professional manner. No profanity.

Compliance with the Amarillo College Technical Education Code of Professional Conduct is mandatory for class participation.

Students must come to class wearing the appropriate AC uniform shirt or a company shirt with company logo that the student works for.

Student MUST wear safety glasses in the shop/lab.

No cell phones are to be in use during class unless requested by instructor.

Students will be respectful of other classes being conducted in the building, respectful of other students and respectful of the instructor.

Students are expected to dress appropriately (shirts tucked in, no profanity on clothing, pants must be worn in the proper location (around the waist).

No head gear to be worn in building, except in shop, then must be worn appropriately. 

No tobacco or e-vape use on campus.

Student will have the text book out following along with lecture and participating in the lecture and class.

Grading Criteria

Grading Criteria

20% daily attendance and particapation

25% homework

15% tests

30% labs and tasksheets

10% final exam all students must take the final

All students must take Final on campus to receive credit. Finals are the last week of the 8 weeks. Review and cleanup will be Monday and Tuesday of that week. Finals will be Wednesday and Thursday. If a student is at 70% or below they are required to go to mandatory tutoring.

Instructor holds the rights to add to the points or take points away, depending on student’s performance.

Student following of the Amarillo College Technical Education Code of Professional Conduct will be considered in the final grade.

 

Grades Scored Between			Equals
90% and up			A
80% and  Less Than  90%			B
70% and  Less Than  80%			C
60% and  Less Than  70%			D
0% and  Less Than  60%			F

Attendance

If a student misses 10% of total class time a letter grade will be deducted

Students must attend 80% of the scheduled class time or they will be asked to drop from the class or fail Students arriving 15 or more minutes late or leaving 15 or more minutes early receive a 50% for the day, 4 lates equals a absent (This includes taking longer breaks than given)

All assignments have a Due date and will not be accepted after that date, unless it is done in tutoring with max of 80% 

 Students must wear AC logo or industry uniform shirt for class. Must have eye protection to enter the shop. Long hair must be put up.

Calendar

Additional Information

DIAA Title IX Policy

 

Freedom from Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Dating Violence and Stalking  

 

Prohibited Behavior and Reporting

1. Amarillo College prohibits all employees and students from engaging in sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. All of these behaviors constitute sexual misconduct.  The prohibition encompasses conduct occurring on-campus or in connection with a College activity or program. Prohibited conduct that occurs off-campus is encompassed by these rules if the conduct creates a sexually hostile environment on campus or in a college activity or program or adversely affects another student’s educational opportunities at the College.  Prohibited conduct may be verbal or physical and proof of force or physical injury is not required. The parties may be the opposite sex or the same sex. In determining whether sanctionable conduct has occurred, the College may consider the on-campus impact of incidents that occurred off campus.
    
2. Students who believe that they have been subjected to sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking are encouraged to report their complaint to the police department as soon as possible after the incident occurs.
    
3. Reports of alleged sexual misconduct by a student should be directed to the Deputy Title IX Coordinator, Denese Skinner, Vice President of Student Affairs.
    
4. Reports of alleged sexual misconduct by an employee or campus visitor should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator, Cheryl Jones, Vice President of Human Resources.
    
5. An employee who witnesses or receives information regarding the occurrence of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking and is alleged to have been committed by or against a person who was a student enrolled at or an employee of the college at the time of the incident must promptly report the incident to the college’s Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Title IX Coordinator, as identified herein.  Reporting is required regardless of when and where the alleged incident occurred and regardless of when and where the employee witnessed or received information about it.  A victim is not required to make a report concerning an incident.
    
6. An employee who is required to make a report and knowingly fails to do so, or knowingly makes a false report, will be terminated in accordance with Texas Education Code § 51.255.
    
7. During an investigation or any disciplinary proceeding, the rights of both the respondent and the reporting party shall be respected, and the confidentiality of proceedings will be maintained to the extent permitted by law. The existence of the College’s policies and procedures is not intended to diminish or alter the rights that the respondent and reporting party have under civil law or the criminal law.
    
8. A victim of sexual misconduct has a right to receive a prompt and equitable resolution of the report.

 

Definitions of Prohibited Behavior

Sexual Harassment

9. Conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or both of the following: (a) An employee conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit or service on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (quid pro quo); or (b) Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to an education, program, or activity (hostile environment).  Sexual harassment is wrongful regardless of whether the parties are of the same sex or of the opposite sex.

Sexual Assault

10. Intentionally or knowingly causing physical sexual contact or penetration of another person without that person’s consent. “Sexual contact” includes any touching of the anus, breast, or any part of the genitals of another person with the intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person. Sexual assault is without consent of the other person if the actor compels the other person to submit or participate by use of physical force or violence, or threat of force or violence, and the other person believes the actor has the present ability to execute the threat; or the other person cannot consent due to age, mental impairment or other circumstance.

Dating Violence

11. Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the reporting party’s statement and with consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. Dating violence includes, but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse.

Stalking

12. A course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress. “Course of conduct” means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the stalker directly or indirectly, or through third parties, by any actions, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property.

 

Sanctions for Violations

13. Existing disciplinary procedures found in the Board of Regents Policy Sections FMA, DGBA and DH will serve as the framework for resolving allegations of sexual misconduct against students and employees. Students found guilty of sexual misconduct will be subject to campus disciplinary actions. If an investigation substantiates that an employee engaged in sexual misconduct, the employee is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, as provided in DGBA and DH policy. In addition, any employee or student may face criminal prosecution for violations of applicable state and federal laws.

 

Protocol for Reporting and Responding to Report

14. The protocol for reporting sexual misconduct is described in the following complaint procedure.  The complaint form is available on the website at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ix.

 

Complaint Procedure

15. This procedure addresses sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating violence, or stalking. Students may use this procedure to file a complaint against a student, a College employee, a College contractor, or a third party who is visiting the College or participating in a College activity. For ease of reference, the phrase “sexual misconduct” occasionally is used to encompass all categories addressed in this procedure.   
                
16. This complaint procedure constitutes a grievance procedure required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. As used in this procedure, “complaint” and “grievance” are synonymous.
     
17. Title IX is a federal statute that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs. The College has appointed Title IX Coordinators who facilitate the College’s compliance with Title IX and other laws that prohibit discrimination. These officials can assist students with claims of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

 

Title IX Coordinators

18. Title IX Coordinator:
    Cheryl Jones, Vice President of Human Resources
    Email: titleIX@actx.edu 
    Phone: 806-371-5040
    Office Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Room 260
     
19. Deputy Title IX Coordinator:
    Denese Skinner, Vice President of Student Affairs
    Email: titleIX@actx.edu 
    Phone: 806-371-5252
    Office Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Room 228C
     
20. In addition to the Title IX Coordinators, all other College employees are designated as “Responsible Employees” who have reporting duties under Title IX. All employees except those who have a duty of confidentiality, such as licensed professional counselors and medical professionals have a duty to report information received to the Title IX Coordinator.

 

Reporting Options

21. Students have several options when reporting sexual harassment, sexual assault,  dating violence or stalking. They may seek informal guidance from counselors or other officials, or they may file a formal grievance. Students also may file a report directly with the College police or any local law enforcement agency. Students are not required to file a police report in order to receive assistance from the College. Additionally, reporting an offense does not commit the student to pursuing further legal action. Students who desire assistance in order to make a police report may contact the College police, the counseling office, or the Title IX Coordinator.
     
22. If anyone reports sexual misconduct through any method, the Title IX Coordinator or designee will promptly contact the Complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures; consider the Complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive measures; inform the Complainant of availability of supportive measures with or without filing a complaint; and explain to the Complainant the process for filing a complaint.

 

Assistance for Victims – Confidential and Non-Confidential Options

23. Students who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, stalking or other crimes may seek advice, assistance, and resources from the College’s Title IX Coordinator, Amarillo College Counseling Center, or the Advocacy and Resource Center. Individuals within these offices can assist the reporting party with accessing medical or counseling services, advocacy services, social support services, legal services and police services. Even in the absence of a formal complaint, the College may be able to provide assistance to the reporting party with respect to his or her academic, living, transportation, or working situations. For example, a student might wish to explore changing a class or class time.

 

On-Campus Resources

24. Title IX Coordinator:
    Cheryl Jones, Vice President of Human Resources
    Email: titleIX@actx.edu 
    Phone: 806-371-5040
    Office Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Rm 260
     
25. Deputy Title IX Coordinator:
    Denese Skinner, Vice President of Student Affairs
    Email: titleIX@actx.edu
    Phone: 806-371-5252
    Office Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Rm 228C
     
26. Amarillo College Counseling Center
    Phone: 806-371-5900
    Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Rm 228A
     
27. Amarillo College Advocacy & Resource Center
    Phone: 806-371-5446
    Location: Washington Street Campus, Ware Student Commons, Suite 108
     
28. Amarillo College Police Department
    Phone (Emergency): 806-371-5911
    Phone (Non-Emergency): 806-371-5163

 

Off-Campus Resources

29. Texas Panhandle Center Hotline
    Phone: 806-359-6699
    Phone (Toll-Free): 1-800-692-4039
     
30. The Pavilion of Northwest Hospital
    Address: 1501 S. Coulter St., Amarillo TX
    Phone: 806-354-1810
     
31. Affordable Counseling – Family Support Services
    Address: 7136 I-40 Frontage Rd, Park West Building B, Amarillo, TX 79106
    Phone: 806-342-2500         24 Hour Hotline:  806-374-5433
     
32. Free Medical Clinic – Heal the City
    Address: 604 S. Tennessee Ave., Amarillo TX
    Phone: 806-231-0364
     
33. Free Legal Help
    Legal Aid of Northwest Texas
    Amarillo Petroleum Building
    203 W. 8th Ave. #600
    Phone: 806-373-4309

 

Confidential Communications

34. In response to an act of sexual misconduct, a victim may be unsure whom to contact for information about options and resources. Some victims may prefer a confidential consultation before deciding on a course of action. Amarillo College employees are “responsible employees” and have a duty to report complaints that come to their attention. Below, this procedure addresses when confidentiality may be honored.
     
35. Confidential communications are those communications that cannot be disclosed to another person without the reporter’s consent, except under very limited circumstances such as an imminent threat or danger to self or others. Victims may speak confidentially with a licensed professional counselor, pastoral counselors in the community, medical personnel, licensed social workers, and victims’ advocates. These individuals may assist victims in deciding whether to report, what options exist, and what resources are available. These individuals are required to report incidents of sexual misconduct to the College’s Title IX Coordinator, but the report should contain only the type of incident and may not include any information that would violate the victim’s expectation of privacy.

 

Non-Confidential Communications

36. Employees are required to report allegations of sexual misconduct even if they have been requested by the person confiding in them to keep the discussion confidential. Non-confidential communications consist of those communications reported to the Title IX Coordinator and others on a need-to-know basis in order to ensure that necessary steps are taken to protect the community as a whole and that appropriate disciplinary measures are considered and taken. Employees must report to the Title IX Coordinator all relevant details of the occurrence, including names of those involved and relevant facts including date, time and location.
     
37. When receiving a sexual misconduct report from an alleged victim, employees shall notify the victim that (i) the employee has an obligation to report the complaint to the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator and (ii) the alleged victim may request confidentiality, which will be evaluated by the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator. The employee shall also inform the alleged victim that he or she may speak confidentially with a licensed professional counselor or others identified in this procedure and although the alleged incident will be reported to the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator, it will only include the type of incident and may not include information that would violate the victim’s expectation of privacy.

 

Requests for Confidentiality

38. To the greatest extent possible, the College shall maintain the confidentiality of information and records related to investigations of complaints based on sexual misconduct. Limited disclosures may be necessary in order to conduct a thorough investigation and comply with applicable law. A Title IX Coordinator will evaluate a reporting party’s request for confidentiality in the context of the College’s responsibility to provide a safe and nondiscriminatory environment for the entire college community. The Title IX Coordinator will make every effort to respect a reporting party’s request for confidentiality; however, there are situations in which the College must override a reporting party’s request for confidentiality in order to meet its Title IX obligations. When weighing a reporting party’s request for confidentiality that could preclude a meaningful investigation or potential discipline of the respondent, the College will consider a range of factors. These factors include, but are not limited to, (i) circumstances that suggest there is an increased risk of the respondent committing additional acts of sexual violence or other violence (e.g., whether there have been other sexual violence complaints about the same respondent, whether the respondent has a history of arrests, etc.); (ii) whether the sexual violence was perpetrated with a weapon; (iii) the age of the victim subjected to the sexual violence; and (iv) whether the school possesses other means to obtain relevant evidence (e.g., security cameras or personnel, physical evidence.)
     
39. The College will inform the reporting party prior to disclosing the reporting party’s identity to a respondent and will take whatever interim measures are necessary to protect the reporting party and ensure the safety of others.
     
40. Finally, while federal law requires Amarillo College include certain reported incidents of sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking among its annual campus crime statistics, such information will be reported in a manner that does not identify victims.

 

Complaints Involving Victims Under the Age of 18

41. Complaints involving abuse of minors must be reported to Children’s Protective Services or other law enforcement agencies. The phone number for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services is 1-800-252-5400.

 

Evidence Preservation in Sexual Assault Cases / Medical Exams

42. If a student experiences sexual misconduct or other criminal offense, it is important that he or she take action to preserve evidence. Such evidence will be helpful in the event that the victim seeks a protective order or desires to pursue a criminal prosecution. Victims of sexual assault or dating violence should not wash, shower, bathe, or change clothes prior to a medical exam or treatment. If the victim needs to remove an item of clothing, it should be placed in a paper bag (not a plastic bag). Instead of changing clothes, the victim may separately bring a change of clothing to the hospital to wear after the examination. Evidence of violence, such as visible injuries or bruising or damage to a vehicle, will need to be photographed. Likewise, evidence of emails, text messages, social media, or phone messages must be preserved and not deleted or altered.
     
43. Students who have just experienced a sexual assault or other sexual violence should call 911 and locate to a safe place. If the incident occurred on campus, the student should contact Campus Police. Campus personnel may assist the victim in obtaining transportation to a hospital or clinic, a police department, or other location. Prompt medical attention in a case of recent assault is necessary to document and treat any injuries and screen for certain medical conditions or transmitted diseases. Victims may receive a medical exam with or without police involvement. A nurse examiner may perform a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam. Such exams generally are available in hospital emergency rooms.

 

Filing A Complaint

Informal Resolution

44. A reporting party may, at any time, personally address the individual whose conduct is offensive, unwelcome, or intimidating and request that such conduct stop. However, particularly in cases of sexual violence, reporting parties are discouraged from contacting the alleged offender. Instead, reporting parties are encouraged to meet with a counselor or the Title IX Coordinator to discuss the student’s options. No reporting party is required to contact the alleged offender regarding the offender’s alleged conduct.
     
45. A reporting party may seek informal resolution by contacting the Title IX Coordinator. Informal resolution may include a meeting between a Title IX representative and the respondent to reinforce the requirements of the College’s policy against harassment. Informal resolution is not a precondition to filing a formal complaint. Additionally, if informal resolution is undesirable or ineffective, then the student may initiate a formal complaint at any time. Mediation shall not be employed in any instances involving sexual violence or an allegation that an employee sexually harassed a student.

 

Formal Complaint Process

Contents of Complaints

46. Although reporting parties may file a complaint at any time, the College encourages reporting parties to report their concerns as soon as possible after the alleged incident(s) so that prompt action can be taken to investigate and resolve the complaint. A delay in reporting may result in a loss of evidence or availability. Reporting parties are encouraged to file complaints during the same semester that the alleged incidents occurred or within 30 days of the conclusion of the semester.
     
47. Reporting parties are encouraged to submit written complaints that describe all incident(s) or action(s) considered by the reporting party to be harassing or violent.

Reporting parties should provide the following information:

• Contact information, including address, telephone, and email;
• Name of person(s) directly responsible for alleged violation(s);
• Date(s) and place(s) of alleged violations;
• Nature of alleged violation(s) as defined in this policy;
• Detailed description of the specific conduct that is the basis of the alleged violation(s);
• Copies of documents, emails, text messages, photos, social media, or other physical evidence pertaining to the alleged violation(s);
• Names of any witnesses to alleged violation(s) and contact information, if available;
• Action requested to resolve the situation;
• Reporting party’s signature and date of filing; and
• Any other relevant information
   

48. The Reporting Party’s failure to provide a written complaint or to provide the information requested above may adversely impact the College’s ability to conduct a complete and thorough investigation and may limit the College’s ability to take appropriate corrective action.

 

Where to File a Complaint

49. Complaints alleging misconduct by a student shall be filed with the Title IX Coordinator who addresses student concerns.
    Deputy Title IX Coordinator:
    Denese Skinner, Vice President of Student Affairs
    Email: titleIX@actx.edu
    Phone: 806-371-5252
    Office Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Room 228C
     
50. Complaints alleging misconduct by an employee or campus visitor shall be filed with the Title IX Coordinator who addresses employee concerns.
    Cheryl Jones, Vice President of Human Resources
    Email: titleIX@actx.edu
    Phone: 806-371-5040
    Office Location: Washington Street Campus, Student Services Center, Room 260

 

Processing and Investigating the Complaint:

51. The Title IX Coordinator or designee will evaluate the complaint to determine whether it is covered by this procedure. A formal investigation will be initiated if a complaint is within the scope of this policy and articulates sufficient specific facts, which if determined to be true, would support a finding that the College’s policy was violated. The College may decline to process a complaint under a variety of circumstances, including (i) the complaint is vague and does not describe conduct covered by this procedure; (ii) the reporting party declines to cooperate in the College’s investigation; or (iii) the complaint has been withdrawn or the requested remedy has already been implemented or was offered and rejected. If the College declines to process a complaint pursuant to this procedure, the College shall send the student or employee a written notification explaining the reasons.
     
52. If the College proceeds with a complaint investigation, the Title IX Coordinator or designee shall determine whether interim action is needed pending completion of an investigation (e.g., a no-contact order, temporary reassignment, or suspension). The Title IX Coordinator shall appoint an impartial investigator to investigate the complaint. In cases where the respondent is a student, the investigator will typically be from Student Affairs. In cases in which the respondent is an employee, an investigator from Human Resources typically will conduct the investigation. In some instances, and when available, a team comprised of an investigator from Student Affairs and an investigator from Human Resources will conduct the investigation together.
     
53. The Title IX Coordinator or designee shall notify the reporting party and respondent of the name and contact information of the investigator(s). The respondent shall receive written notice of the allegations and shall be informed of his or her right to submit a written response to the allegations within 10 school days, unless unusual circumstances warrant additional time. The written notice shall inform the respondent that retaliation against the reporting party is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

 

Time Frame for Investigation

54. Barring unusual circumstances (e.g., multiple reporting parties, a complaint filed prior to a College holiday), the investigation ordinarily will be completed within a reasonably prompt timeframe. An investigation shall commence even if a law enforcement agency is conducting a separate criminal investigation against the respondent. However, the College’s investigation may be temporarily delayed when requested by police investigators or the District Attorney’s Office. If the College’s investigation is temporarily delayed due to a pending criminal investigation, the reporting party and respondent will be notified. All deadlines in this procedure may be extended by mutual agreement or good cause.

 

Interviews and Documentation

55. The investigator shall interview the reporting party, the respondent, and other individuals determined by the investigator to possess relevant information. The reporting party and the respondent each will be permitted to provide documentation or other tangible evidence to the investigator. The reporting party and the respondent may suggest witnesses to interview; however, the decision whether to interview is a matter of professional judgment for the investigator in light of the issues at hand, in light of the information already obtained in the investigation, and in light of the resources available.

 

Right to Representation

56. During meetings pertaining to the investigation and complaint process, the reporting party and the respondent may be accompanied by an advisor. Advisors, however, may not actively participate in meetings or interview witnesses.

 

Investigative Reports

57. The investigator shall prepare a written report that summarizes the facts and evidence gathered during the investigation. The investigator will then permit the respondent and the reporting party to review the written report (with a copy to the Title IX Coordinator). Student identifiable information, if confidential by law, will be redacted. The respondent and the reporting party will each have 10 school days to provide comments and suggested corrections to the investigator. After receiving the comments from the parties (or if no comments are submitted), the investigator will determine whether additional investigation is needed and write a report that summarizes the findings using a preponderance of the evidence standard. The investigator will consider the totality of the circumstances, including the context and duration of the conduct and its severity. Facts will be considered on the basis of what is reasonable to persons of ordinary sensitivity.
     
58. The investigator will send the report to the Vice President of Enrollment Management if the respondent is a student or to the Vice President of Human Resources if the respondent is an employee to proceed with a hearing or finding. If determined that a violation of policy occurred, the decision maker will then proceed with a disciplinary consequence or other corrective action. The action shall be reasonably calculated to prevent a reoccurrence of the misconduct and/or to ameliorate its impact. If the respondent is a student, the procedures set forth in Board of Regents Policy Section FMA should be followed and if the respondent is an employee, the procedures set forth in Section DGBA should be followed.
     
59. The final determination shall be sent to the respondent, the reporting party, and the Title IX Coordinator. The final determination may be redacted to protect student information that is confidential by law under the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act.

 

Review and Appeals

60. If the reporting party or respondent wish to appeal the final determination or discipline, the reporting party or respondent should follow the procedures set forth in the Board of Regents Policy Section FMA if the alleged sexual misconduct is by a student or Section DGBA if the alleged sexual misconduct is by an employee.

 

Rights During Disciplinary Proceedings

61. In disciplinary hearings and appeals involving allegations of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence or stalking, the individual presenting the case, subject to the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act, should notify the Title IX Coordinator and the reporting party that the respondent has requested a hearing and the date and time of the hearing. The reporting party and responding party shall receive written notice of the following rights and options:

 

1. The right to attend and participate in the hearing;
2. The right to have his or her past sexual history excluded from evidence;
3. The right to provide testimony at the hearing in a manner that does not require the reporting party to directly confront or to be directly questioned by the respondent while preserving the respondent’s right to challenge such testimony;
4. The right for an advisor to cross-examine a party or a witness to provide the opportunity to test the credibility of parties and witnesses;
5. The right to receive assistance from the College’s Tile IX Coordinator;
6. The right to provide input to the individual presenting the case regarding potential witnesses, evidence and argument that may be presented at the hearing or during a subsequent appeal;
7. The right to know the outcome of the hearing; and
8. The right to information regarding the procedure for appealing the final disposition.

 

62. The notice to the reporting party and responding party shall include a copy of the applicable disciplinary procedure. Additionally, the notice shall inform the reporting party of his or her right to be accompanied during any disciplinary proceeding by an advisor of his or her choice. If the reporting party intends to attend the hearing and/or to bring an advisor, he or she shall notify the individual presenting the case in writing at least three school days prior to the hearing. The student’s advisor may cross-examine witnesses or parties. An advisor may not be a witness in the matter.
     
63. The individual presenting the case shall notify the respondent and the Title IX Coordinator of the reporting party’s intent to attend the hearing.

 

Retaliation Prohibited

64. Every reporting party has the right to file a complaint or to participate in an investigation without being subjected to retaliation. Retaliation is an adverse action taken by an employee or student against an individual who makes a good faith report of discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct or who participates in an investigation pertaining to a complaint of discrimination, harassment or sexual misconduct. For an action or decision to be considered adverse, it must be materially adverse and be of the type that would dissuade a reasonable person from exercising his or her rights to file a complaint or to participate in an investigation. Unlawful retaliation does not include petty slights or annoyances. Any employee or student who engages in retaliation may be subject to disciplinary action.

 

Office for Civil Rights

65. Students may wish to file complaints of discrimination and harassment with the Office for Civil Rights, Department of Education, Washington, D.C., at the same time they file a grievance, during or after use of the grievance process, or without using the grievance process at all. If a student files a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights, the complaint must be filed no later than 180 days after the occurrence of the possible discrimination.

 

Office for Civil Rights
U.S. Department of Education
Dallas Office
1999 Bryan Street, Suite 1620
Dallas, Texas 75201-6810
Phone: 214-661-9600
Email: OCR.Dallas@ed.gov

 

Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act

66. In compliance with the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act (Section 1601 of “Public Law 106-386”) and the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act, all persons required to register as part of the State of Texas’ Sex Offender Registration Program are required to provide notice of their presence on campus to the Campus Police Department. Information on registered sex offenders can be obtained through the Texas Department of Public Safety Crimes Record Service at: records.txdps.state.tx.us/SexOffender.

Approved: 09-22-20