Consumer Information and Disclosure
CIP Codes – http://www.onetcodeconnector.org/ccreport/39-5012.00
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Cosmetology: 12.0401
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Esthiology: 12.0409
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Manicurist: 12.0410
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Massage Therapy 51.3501
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Barbering 12.0402
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SOC Standard Occupational Classification Codes
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Cosmetology: 39-5012
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Esthiology: 39-5094
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Manicurist: 39-5092
Student Body Diversity
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0% American Indian or Alaska Native
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0% Asian/Native/Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
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31% Black or African American
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15% Hispanic Latino
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55% White
Accreditation
School:059046-00 / First Class Cosmetology School Alternate Names: n/a
Address:306 State Street Beloit, WI 53511
Expanded Campus:
Accreditation Status: Fully Accredited
Date Accred Status Changed: 3/2022
Initial Accreditation Year:2010
Last Anniversary:05/2019 Continuing Education: n/a
Next Renewal:05/2025
Contact: Angie McCaslin
Phone Number:(608) 362-5216
Programs: Advanced Esthetics (150.00 hours), Cosmetology (1550.00 hours), Esthetics (600.00 hours), Manicuring (350.00 hours), Massage Therapy (750.00 hours),
Annual Report Statistics
2023 School(all programs) 2023 Cosmetology Esthetics Manicuring Massage Barbering
Graduation rate: 88.89% 85.3% 94.4% 84.6% 100% 87.5%
Placement rate: 92.19% 88.5% 85.7% 100% 100% 100%
Licensure rate: 91.53% 91.7% 84.6% 100% 100% 83.3%
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2022 School(all programs) 2022 Cosmetology Esthetics Manicuring
Graduation rate: 89.3%
Placement rate: 84%
Licensure rate: 95%
2021 School (all programs) 2021 Cosmetology 2021 Esthetics 2021 Manicuring
Graduation rate: 91.94% 93.75% 95% 80%
Placement rate: 85.19% 86.6% 75% 100%
Licensure rate: 83.33% 86% 67% 100%
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Programs that exceed State Required hours
For Esthetic Program, as stated in our student catalog: Students enrolled in our program are required to complete 600 hours of approved training, which exceeds the requirements of the State of WI. First Class Cosmetology School has opted to increase the hours of our Aesthetic program to provide students with more advance studies and hands on experience benefiting the educational experience and overall career readiness. Completing this program will make you eligible to test for the WI Aesthetic Licensure.
For Manicuring Program, as stated in our student catalog: The Manicuring program exceeds WI requirements by providing an additional 50 hours of instruction. The State of Wisconsin requires 300 hours and The State of Illinois requires 350 hours for their Manicuring programs respectively. We have determined this to be necessary due to our location on the state border of IL and WI. Upon completion, you will be ready to take the licensing exam, and meet requirements for licensure in either WI and/or IL. Meeting both states requirements allows for more job opportunities upon graduation.
For the massage program, as stated in our student catalog: Our program exceeds the minimum of 600 hours required by the State of WI to benefit our student’s performance and to provide each student the option of seeking National Certification once the required work experience has been obtained.
For the Barbering-1500 hours: as stated in our student catalog: First Class Cosmetology School is excited to add both a 1000-hr and 1500-hr Barbering program to our current course offering. The State of WI requires 1000 hours of training to be eligible to take the licensing exam. We are also offering an additional 1500-hour course to meet the needs of those students who wish to pursue their licensure and career in IL.
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Occupational Physical Demands
COSMETOLOGISTS, BARBERS and ESTHETICIANS FREQUENTLY:
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Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
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Repeat the same movements.
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Stand for long periods of time.
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Bend or twist their body.
IT IS IMPORTANT FOR HAIRSTYLISTS, COSMETOLOGISTS, and BARBERS TO BE ABLE TO:
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See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
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Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
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Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
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Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
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Understand the speech of another person.
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Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
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See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
MASSAGE THERAPISTS FREQUENTLY:
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Stand for long periods of time.
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Repeat the same movements.
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Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
IT IS IMPORTANT FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS TO BE ABLE TO:
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Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
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Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
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Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
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Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
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Understand the speech of another person.
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Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
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Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
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Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
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Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
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See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
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Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
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Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
MANICURING
Physical dexterity: This position requires the following physical abilities: balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, tactile sense, repetitive motions, seeing, hearing, talking, and visual acuity
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Licensing Requirements
Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics and Manicuring:
To be eligible for either WI or IL State licensure exam, students must graduate from their respective program of study, meeting all school and state requirements. Upon graduation from First Class Cosmetology School, students meet the eligibility requirements to test in either WI and/or IL. If interested in other states’ requirements and reciprocity information, please contact the admissions office.
The State of WI requires passing of both a written and practical exam for licensure. Students at First Class Cosmetology School take a mock state board exam as their final practical, ensuring proficient knowledge for the state licensure exams. We assist students with packing of the state board practical kit required for the practical exam. Written tests are taken throughout all courses of study with an emphasis on preparation for the state board exam.
The State of IL requires only a written exam for licensure. Additionally, a practical exam score is required from the attended school.
Massage Therapy Licensing Info:
In order to become a Massage Therapist you must meet educational requirements and pass a State Licensing Exam. You
must hold a valid State License in the state you are working.
Education Requirements for WI : 600 hours First Class Cosmetology School Program: 750 hours
Exam FEE: $150.00
Applicants must have submitted a DSPS application for licensure before taking the examination. After the application is
reviewed, DSPS will assign an ID#, test name, and password. It is recommended that applicants do so as soon as
reasonable. If an applicant fails the examination, the applicant will be required to pay a fee to retake the examination. A
passing score is required for licensure.
The exam consists of 40 questions in multiple choice and true/false format. Passing score for the exam is 85%.
CEU/Renewal: Beginning with the renewal period commencing on March 1, 2015, each Massage Therapist/Bodywork
Therapist must complete 24 hours of continuing education, including two (2) hours of ethics, to renew a license.
Acceptable continuing education must cover topics within the scope of practice of massage therapy and bodywork therapy
or related business practices. The topic of at least two (2) of the total continuing education hours in each biennium shall be
ethics.
NOTE: Does not apply to the biennium when license was first issued or for first renewal of license.
Biennium from 3/1/odd to 2/28/odd
Obtaining Title IV Aid
First Class Cosmetology School is eligible to participate in the Title IV Federal Student Aid program administrated by the U.S. Department of Education; for those who qualify. Please see the directions below to obtain Title IV Aid. The money provided through these programs can be in the form of grants, loans, or combination of any of these programs. Grants are monies given by the United States Government. They do not have to be repaid. Loans are borrowed money. They must be repaid with interest. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for more details. Please follow the steps listed below to apply for Financial Aid.
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Create an FSA ID: username and password
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Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
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Accept the amount on the Financial Aid Award Letter
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Contact Financial Aid Office to start the process – 608-362-5216
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Entrance Counseling Policy
Before receiving a student loan at First Class Cosmetology School, borrowers must complete an entrance counseling session. This quick and easy interactive counseling session provides useful tips and tools to help you develop a budget for managing your educational expenses and helps you to understand your loan responsibilities.
This online entrance counseling session will take about 20-30 minutes to complete. Students must visit www.studentloans.gov to complete their entrance counseling before receiving a student loan.
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Exit Counseling Policy
Prior to graduating or leaving First Class Cosmetology School, borrowers are required to complete an exit counseling session. This online exit counseling session has been created to make sure that you understand your rights and responsibilities as a Direct Loan borrower. Student must visit www.studentloans.gov to complete their exit counseling.
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State Grant Assistance
First Class Cosmetology School does not receive State Grant assistance.
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Title IV/Preferred Lender Code of Conduct
First Class Cosmetology School
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Title IV Aid – School Code of Conduct Policy
First Class Cosmetology School strives to educate, counsel, and provide financial resources to all students so that they may achieve their higher-learning goals to be prepared for careers in the fields of cosmetology and esthiology.
In compliance with the federal law, First Class Cosmetology School officers, employees, and agents shall maintain exemplary standards of professional conduct in all aspects of carrying out his or her responsibilities, including all dealings with any entities involved in any manner in student financial aid, regardless of whether such entities are involved in a government sponsored, subsidized, or regulated activity.
Any officers, employees and agents shall refrain from:
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Entering into any revenue-sharing arrangements with any lender.
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Soliciting or accepting any gift from a lender, guarantor, or servicer of education loans. For purposes of this prohibition, the term “gift” means any gratuity, favor, discount, entertainment, hospitality, loan, or other item having a monetary value of more than a de minimis amount.
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Accepting from any lender or affiliate of any lender any fee, payment, or other financial benefit (including the opportunity to purchase stock) as compensation for any type of consulting arrangement or other contract to provide services to a lender or on behalf of a lender relating to education loans.
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Assigning, through award packaging or other methods, the borrower’s loan to a particular lender; or refuse to certify, or delay certification of, any loan based on the borrower’s selection of a particular lender or guaranty agency.
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Requesting or accepting from any lender any offer of funds to be used for private education loans, including funds for an opportunity pool loan, to students in exchange for the institution providing concessions or promises regarding providing the lender with specified number of loans, volume, or a preferred lender arrangement for such loans.
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Requesting or accepting from any lender any assistance with call center staffing or financial aid office staffing.
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Receiving anything of value from the lender, guarantor, or group of lenders or guarantors for any employee who is employed in the financial aid office, or who otherwise has responsibilities with respect to First Class Cosmetology School’s education loans or other student financial aid, and who serves on an advisory board, commission, or group established by a lender, guarantor, or group of lenders or guarantors, except that the employee may be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in serving on such advisory board, commission, or group.
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Any officers, employees or agents’ pledges to diligently:
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Help students seek, obtain, and make the best use of all financial resources available and provide services that do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, financial status, sex, ethnic origin, age, veteran status or sexual orientation.
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Respect and protect the confidentiality the students’ records and of the economic circumstances of the student and student’s family. Information will be released only on the written consent of the student and/or student’s family, and all policies and procedures shall protect the student’s right of privacy.
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Commit to the highest level of ethical behavior and refrain from conflict of interest or the perception thereof.
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Self-Certification
The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) requires that before a private educational lender may consummate a private education loan (Sallie Mae) for a postsecondary student, the private education lender must obtain the completed and signed Self-Certification Form from the applicant. Every student must complete this form before accepting a loan and return it to Sallie Mae before they can process.
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FERPA Policy
In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 the school follows policies that:
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The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the Institute receives a request for access. A student should submit to the Director of Education a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Director of Education will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
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The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the Institute to amend a record should write the Director of Education, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the Institute decides not to amend the record as requested, the Director of Education will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
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The right to provide written consent before the Institute discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. The Institute discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the Institute in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position; a person or company with whom the Institute has contracted as its agent to provide a service, such as accrediting agency or auditing firm. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the Institute.
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The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Institute to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:
​Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
The Institute requires written authorization from a student or parent or guardian (in case of a minor) or graduate in order to release academic, attendance, enrollment status, financial aid and/or any other information to agencies, prospective employers, or any other party seeking information about the student. NACCAS reserves the right to inspect student records for any accreditation purposes. The institute requires written consent from the student or guardian for release of records in response to each third party request unless otherwise required by the law.
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Verification Policies and Procedures
The Central Processing System (CPS) randomly selects financial aid applications for a process called “verification.” The Financial Aid Office will verify all applications selected by the federal processor. In addition, the Financial Aid Office may verify any application that appears to have inaccurate or conflicting information even though it was not selected by the federal processor.
Financial aid applicants selected for verification must comply with the verification procedures set forth in the Federal regulations. Applicants will be notified that they have been selected for verification, either by the Federal Processor through a comment on the Student Aid Report (SAR) or by First Class Cosmetology School through a letter and/or e-mail.
First Class Cosmetology School will use the Federal Verification Worksheet. The verification worksheet will be available by paper in the Financial Aid Office. The completed worksheets, along with the proper support documentation, must be returned to the Financial Aid Office 30 days after the student has been notified or prior to starting school. The Financial Aid Office will follow the procedures outlined in the Federal Financial Aid Handbook to complete the verification process.
Items to be Verified:
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Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
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Federal Income Tax Paid
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Number of Family Members in the Household
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Number of Family Members Attending College at least half-time
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Untaxed Income:
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Child support
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Pensions & IRA/Keogh deductions
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Interest on Tax-free bonds
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All other untaxed income included on the Federal tax return; excluding information on the schedules.
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Failure to provide the requested documentation will result in discontinued processing of the financial aid application. Conflicting data must be verified before the process can be completed. Title IV aid will not be disbursed until the verification process has been completed by the Financial Aid Office. Corrections to data will result in a recalculation of eligibility. If the recalculation results in a change to the Expected Family Contribution, the Financial Aid Office will submit the corrections electronically to the Federal Processor. When the corrected Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) is received, the awarding process will continue and financial aid eligibility will be determined from the new ISIR. The student will be notified of any corrections via a revised Student Aid Report from the Federal Processing Center.
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High School Diploma Policy
As a condition for enrollment, First Class Cosmetology School requires that students provide valid proof of education. This includes a copy of a prospective student’s high school diploma, high school transcript or a General Equivalency Diploma (“GED”). The Institute does not accept Ability to Benefit (“ATB”) students. The Wisconsin Education Department recognizes state registered home school programs with a state ID that is recorded on their official diplomas. Foreign High School Diplomas/Transcripts must be translated and evaluated by an education credential evaluation company to determine equivalence to a US high school diploma.
If high school information appears to be questionable an official transcript will be requested and evaluated by the director of admissions prior to enrolling the student. Particular attention shall be paid to situations involving online programs, older adult learners, or in situations where several students from the same online school have sought enrollment.
Upon receipt, the director of admissions shall review the transcript with particular attention to the student’s date of entry and graduation date. Sufficient time lapse should occur between such dates.
If the high school information cannot be verified, the student will be required to take and pass a GED test prior to enrollment.
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Return to Title IV Policy
In accordance with federal regulations, students may forfeit a portion of their federal student financial assistance if they fail to complete the program of study in which they were enrolled. This policy affects students who:
received or were eligible to receive federal student financial assistance authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act (HEA), i.e., Federal Pell Grants or Federal Direct Student Loan (FDSL) program funds,
and
who withdrew or were terminated from the institution during the first 60% of any payment period.
Determination of Withdrawal
Students will be considered to have withdrawn from their program of study on the date of their official notification to the school of their intent to withdraw, or for unofficial withdrawals, after 14 consecutive calendar days of absence unless the student is on an approved leave of absence as otherwise stated in the institution’s policies. For students whose enrollment has been terminated by the institution, the date of such action shall be considered as the date of withdrawal determination. The student’s last date of attendance in the program will be considered as the withdrawal date for purposes of the required calculations.
Determination of Federal Aid Earned
Eligible Title IV federal aid recipients whose last recorded date of attendance, per the institution’s attendance records, is within the first 60% of a payment period are considered to have earned federal aid only in an amount equal to the percentage of time that the student was enrolled during the payment period, rounded to the nearest 1/10 of one percent (Example: 33.333% = 33.3%, 66.666% = 66.7%). The percentage of the payment period completed is calculated by the number of clock hours the student was scheduled to complete in the payment period as of the withdrawal date divided by the total number of clock hours in the payment period.
Accordingly, a required calculation will be performed to determine the amount of federal student aid funds earned by the student for the period of time he/she was enrolled. If the student remained enrolled for more than 60% of the payment period, all federal aid disbursed has been fully earned. This calculation will be done before a tuition refund calculation is performed in accordance with the institution’s refund policy and may result in a determination of the amount of unearned aid that must be returned to the USDE by the institution, as well as the amount to be returned by the student.
The institution will notify the student upon completion of this calculation if the student has any responsibilities to repay any federal funds beyond the scope of the student’s existing student loan repayment obligations. In many cases, any return of unearned Title IV funds will result in adverse financial consequences including the student owing tuition and fees to the institution that would otherwise have been paid with federal student aid.
Determination of Funds to be Returned
If the R2T4 calculation results in the determination that the amount of federal aid disbursed for the period on behalf of the student exceeds the amount of federal aid that has been earned by the student for that period, then a refund of the unearned portion must be returned to the U.S. Department of Education. The institution will be responsible for its portion of the refund and the student may be responsible for returning his/her portion of the unearned federal aid as determined by the calculation.
Unearned funds to be returned to the U.S. Department of Education by the institution, and any unearned grant funds owed by the student, must be repaid within 45 days of the date the institution determined that a student has withdrawn. Unearned, Title IV funds owed by the student to a federal loan program must be repaid in accordance with the repayment terms of the student’s loan.
Refunds of unearned federal student aid will be returned to the Title IV programs in the following order: 1. Unsubsidized Direct Loans
2. Subsidized Direct Loans
3. Direct PLUS Loans
4. Federal Pell Grants
Determination of Funds to be Disbursed (Post Withdrawal Disbursement)
If the R2T4 calculation results in the determination that the amount of federal aid earned by the student for the period exceeds the amount of federal aid that has been disbursed on the student’s behalf for that period, then the student may be entitled to a post-withdrawal disbursement of earned funds. Earned federal grant funds will be disbursed by the institution within 45 days of the date of withdrawal determination. Earned federal student loan funds, eligible for post-withdrawal disbursement, will be offered to the student within 30 days of the date of withdrawal determination. The student shall have 14 days to accept or decline disbursement of those funds.
Post-withdrawal disbursements shall first be applied to the student’s account to cover any charges that remain unpaid after the student’s withdrawal from the institution. In the event all charges owed by the student have been paid in full, and a credit balance remains on the account, such credit balance will be returned to the student within 14 days of disbursement.
Title IV Credit balances when a student withdraws
When a student withdraws during a period with an existing Title IV credit balance, the Title IV credit balance is handled as follows:
1. Do not release any portion of a Title IV credit balance to the student, and do not return any portion to the Title IV programs prior to performing the R2T4 calculation. The institution must hold these funds even if, consistent with the 14-day credit balance payment requirement, it would otherwise be required to release them.
2. Perform the R2T4 calculation and include any existing Title IV credit balance funds as disbursed aid for the period.
3. Apply any applicable refund policy (state, accrediting agency, institutional, etc.) to determine if doing so creates a new or larger Title IV credit balance.
4. Allocate any Title IV credit balance as follows:
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Any Title IV credit balance must be allocated first to repay any grant overpayment owed by the student as a result of the current withdrawal. The institution must return such funds to the Title IV grant account within 14 days of the date that the institution performs the R2T4 calculation.
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Within 14 days of the date that the institution performs the R2T4 calculation, an institution must pay any remaining Title IV credit balance funds in one or more of the following ways:
-In accordance with the cash management regulations, to pay authorized charges at the institution (including previously paid charges that now are unpaid due to a return of Title IV funds by the institution);
- With the student’s written authorization, to reduce the student’s Title IV loan debt (not limited to loan debt for the period of withdrawal);
-To the student (or parent for a Direct PLUS Loan);
- If the institution cannot locate the student (or parent) to whom a Title IV credit balance is owed, it must return the credit balance to the Title IV programs that most benefits the student.
INSTITUTIONAL REFUND POLICY
Cosmetology/ Barbering/Esthetics & Advanced Esthetics/ Manicuring Program
Enrollee’s Right to Cancel
You may cancel this agreement by mailing or delivering a notice to First Class Cosmetology School, 306 State St, Beloit WI 53511, before midnight of the third business day after you sign this agreement. “Business Day” means any calendar day except Saturday or Sunday, and except for the following business holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday, Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. If you wish you may use this page as written notice by writing “I hereby cancel” and adding your name and address. A duplicate of this page is provided to you by the school for your records. *All classes at First Class Cosmetology School are taught in English. If your principal language is other than English, please inform administration if you would like a copy of this Right to cancel in your principal language.
For Applicants who cancel enrollment or students who withdraw from enrollment, a fair and equitable settlement will apply. The following policy will apply to all terminations for any reasons, by either party, including student decision, course or program cancellation, or school closure.
Any monies due to the applicant or students shall be refunded within 30 days of the official cancellation or withdrawal. Official cancellation or withdrawal shall occur on the earlier of the dates that:
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An applicant is not accepted by the school. The applicant shall be entitled to a refund of all monies paid.
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A student (or legal guardian) cancels his/her enrollment in writing within three business days of signing the enrollment agreement. In this case all monies collected by the school, shall be refunded, regardless of whether the student has started classes.
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A student has canceled his/her enrollment after three business days of signing the enrollment agreement but prior to starting classes. In these cases, he/she shall be entitled to a refund of all monies paid to the school minus the registration fee of $90.00 and application fee of $10.00.
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A student notifies the institution of his/her withdrawing in writing.
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A student on an approved leave of absence notifies the school that he/she will not be returning. The date of the withdraw shall be the earlier of the date of expiration of the leave of absence or the date the student notifies the institution that the student will not be returning.
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A student who is expelled from school. (unofficial withdrawals will be determined by the institution by monitoring attendance at least every 30 days)
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In type 2,3,4 or 5, official cancellation or withdrawals, the cancellation date will be determined by the postmark on the written notification, or the date said notification is delivered to the school administration or owner in person.
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For students who enroll and begin classes but withdraw prior to course completion (after three business days of signing enrollment agreement) the following schedule of tuition earned by the school applies. All refunds are based on scheduled hours:
PERCENTAGE OF SCHEDULED TIME TOTAL TUITION CHARGE
0.01% to 04.9% 20%
5% to 09.9% 30%
10% to 14.9% 40%
15% to 24.9% 45%
25% to 49.9% 70%
50% and over 100%
Any monies due the applicant or student will be refunded within 30 days of formal cancellation date as defined above. In the case of disabling illness or injury, death in the student’s immediate family or other documented mitigating circumstances, a reasonable and fair refund settlement will be made. If the school permanently closes or is no longer offering instruction after a student has enrolled, the school will provide a pro rata refund of tuition to the student. If the school cancels a course after a student’s enrollment, the school will either provide pro rata refund for all students transferring to another school based on the hours accepted by the receiving school, or completion of the course at a later date. The school does not participate in any teach-out plans with other institutions.
Students who withdraw or terminate prior to course completion are charged a cancellation or administrative fee of $100.00. This refund policy applies to tuition and fees charged in the enrollment agreement. Other miscellaneous charges the student may have incurred at the institution (EG: extra kit materials, books, products, books unreturned school property, etc.) will be calculated separately at the time of withdrawal. All fees identified in the catalog and in this enrollment agreement
If a Title IV financial aid recipient withdraws prior to course completion, a calculation for return of Title IV funds will be completed and any applicable returns by the school shall be paid, as applicable, first to unsubsidized Federal Stafford Student Loan Program, second to subsidized Federal Stafford Student Loan Program, third to Federal Pell Grant Program; fourth to other Federal, State, private or institutional student financial assistance program; and last to the student. After all applicable returns to Title IV aid have been made, this institutional refund policy will apply to determine the amount earned by the school and owed by the student. If the student received personal payments of Title IV aid, he/she may be required to refund the aid to the applicable program.
Collection Policy: Any student that withdraws, is terminated, or completes the program with an unpaid balance must make reasonable repayment arrangements. If the student fails to do so, First Class Cosmetology School will begin collection methods that reflect ethical business practices. Ultimately if arrangements for payment cannot be met, or are not followed through with, the student will be sued in an attempt to collect the unpaid debt. Collection fees will be added to your unpaid balance.
*The School is currently eligible to participate in federal Title IV Financial Aid Program
INSTITUTIONAL REFUND POLICY
Massage Therapy Program
The Student will receive a full refund of all money paid if the student:
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The student cancels within three-business days
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The student accepted was unqualified, and the school did not secure a disclaimer
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The school procured the student’s enrollment as the result of any false representations in the written materials used by the school or in oral representation made by or on behalf of the school.
Refunds will be made within 10 business days of cancellation.
A Massage student who withdraws or is dismissed after attending at least one class, but before completing 60% of the scheduled instruction in the current enrollment period, shall be entitled to a pro rata refund, less any amounts owed by the student for the current enrollment period. Pro rata refund shall be determined as the number of units remaining after the last unit completed by the student, divided by the total number of units in the enrollment period, rounding down to the nearest downward to the nearest ten percent. Pro rata refund is the resulting percent applied to the total tuition and other required costs paid by the student for the current enrollment period.
This policy applies to all terminations for any reason, by either party, including student decision, course or program cancellation or school closure. In the event of school closure or program cancellation the school will allow completion for those currently attending. In such case that allowing for completion is not foreseeable, a pro-rated refund will be made to the student.
As part of this policy, the school may retain a one-time application fee of no more than $10 and registration fee of 90$. The school will make every effort to refund prepaid amounts for books, supplies and other charges that has not been used. A student will receive the refund within 40·days of termination date. If a student withdraws after completing 60% of the instruction, and withdrawal is due to mitigating circumstances beyond the student’s control, the school may refund a pro rata amount. A written notice of withdrawal is not required. You will be administratively withdrawn after 14 days of unreported absences and refunds will be based on last day of attendance.
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​Student Complaint Procedure
To adequately provide you with the best education possible we have a complaint procedure to follow. If a situation arises with an instructor, student, or policy, please put it in writing and present it to the school owner, Charlotte Jero or school Director, Angie McCaslin. Within ten business days of receiving your complaint a meeting will be scheduled with the above listed school representative(s) to evaluate your complaint. If a problem cannot be resolved through discussion, the complaint will be referred to the school’s complaint committee, which comprises the complete instructional and support staff. The complaint committee will meet within twenty-one days of the initial meeting to review your allegations. If for any reason the committee feels the need for more information regarding your complaint a letter will be issued to the complainant outlining the additional information required. If no further information is needed than the committee will present a letter to the complainant within fifteen days stating the steps being taken to correct the problem, or to show information that the allegations were not warranted or based on fact. If the complainant wishes to pursue the matter further you can fill out a complaint form, available through our accrediting agency. Please be advised that the accrediting agency will be requesting information from the school that our internal complaint guidelines have been followed.
The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences
3015 Colvin St
Alexandria, VA 22314
Email: naccas@naccas.org
Unresolved complaints involving massage therapy students may contact:
WI Educational Approval Program
1400 E Washington Ave
Madison WI 53708
Unresolved Complaints with Cosmetology, Esthetics and/or Nail Students:
If you would like to email, mail, or fax your complaint instead of submitting it online, print and complete the Complaint Form and submit it to:
Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
Division of Legal Services and Compliance
P.O. Box 7190
Madison, WI 53707-7190
Fax: (608) 266-2264
Email: dsps@wisconsin.gov
Process
The Division of Legal Services and Compliance (DLSC) provides compliance services for the agency’s boards and direct-licensed professions. DLSC is staffed with attorneys, investigators and other legal staff to address complaints promptly and appropriately. If a complaint is made with sufficient evidentiary support to suggest that a credential holder is in violation of a relevant condition or rule related to their profession the Division may investigate and, if necessary, file a disciplinary action against the credential holder. The purposes of discipline are to protect the public, rehabilitate the credential holder and to deter other credential holders. Disciplinary action is then monitored for compliance by DLSC's Monitoring Unit.
The links in the Additional Resources section provide directions for making a complaint as well as a page that describes the Department’s case handling process. If a complaint is opened for investigation the case may take in excess of a year to reach a conclusion. This span of time is required to screen, investigate, and if appropriate, prosecute the approximately 3,000 complaints the department receives each year.
In some circumstances the Department may not have the authority or requisite legal basis to investigate a complaint. Any complaint falling within the jurisdiction of another agency will be referred to that agency for further action.
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Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy
This Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy is consistently applied to all students enrolled at First Class CosmetologySchool. It is printed in the catalog to ensure all students receive a copy prior to enrollment. The policy complies with the guidelines established by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) and the federal regulations established by the United States Department of Education.
EVALUATION PERIODS
Students are evaluated for Satisfactory Academic Progress as follows:
Cosmetology 450 Actual Hours/ 15 weeks 900 Actual Hours/30 weeks 1225 Actual Hours/40 weeks
Barbering 1000 hour 450 Actual Hours/15 weeks 900 Actual Hours/30 weeks
Barbering 1500 hour 450 Actual Hours/15 weeks 900 Actual Hours/30 weeks 1200 Actual Hours/40 weeks
Esthetics 300 Actual Hours/12 weeks
Manicuring 150 Actual Hours/8 weeks
Massage Therapy 325 Actual Hours/11 weeks
Advanced Esthetic 75 Actual Hours/5 weeks
Transfer students- Scheduled midpoint of the actual hours contracted with the institution.
Evaluations will determine if the student has met the minimum requirements for satisfactory academic progress.
ATTENDANCE PROGRESS EVALUATIONS
Students are required to attend a minimum of 75% of the scheduled hours indicated on their enrollment contract to maintain satisfactory attendance progress. Evaluations are conducted at the end of each evaluation period to determine if the student has met the minimum requirements. The attendance percentage is determined by dividing the total hours accrued by the total number of hours scheduled. At the end of each evaluation period, the school will determine if the student has maintained at least 75% cumulative attendance since the beginning of the course which indicates that, given the same attendance rate, the student will graduate within the maximum time frame allowed.
MAXIMUM TIME FRAME
The maximum time (which does not exceed 133% of the course length) allowed for the students to complete each
course at satisfactory academic progress is stated below: MAXIMUM TIME ALLOWED
COURSE Scheduled Hours Weeks
Cosmetology 1550 hours (Full time 34 hrs/wk) 2,061 hours 61 Weeks
Barbering 1000 hours (Full time 34 hrs/wk) 1,331 hours 40 Weeks
Barbering 1500 hours(Full time 34 hrs/wk) 1995 hours 59 Weeks
Esthetics 600 hours (Full time 25hrs/wk) 798 hours 32 Weeks
Advanced Esthetics 150 hours (Part time 15hr/wk) 199 hours 13 Weeks
Manicuring 350 hours (Part time 20hr/wk) 465 hours 23 Weeks
Massage Therapy 750 hours (Full time 30hrs/wk) 997 hours 33 Weeks
The institution operates all programs according to the following academic year: 900 clock hours to be completed in 30
weeks.
The maximum time allowed for transfer students who need less than the full course requirements or students with modified schedules will be determined based on 75% of the scheduled contracted hours.
Students who have not completed the course within the maximum timeframe may continue as a student at the institution on a cash pay basis.
ACADEMIC PROGRESS EVALUATIONS
The qualitative element used to determine academic progress is a reasonable system of grades determined by assigned academic learning. Students are assigned academic learning and a minimum number of practical experiences. Academic learning is evaluated after each unit of study. Practical assignments must be satisfactory or greater to be counted toward course completion. Students must maintain a written grade average of 75% and PASS a final written and practical exam with a 75% or higher to graduate. Students must make up any test score 65% or below, any missed tests, and incomplete assignments. Numerical grades are considered according to the following scale:
93-100 EXCELLENT
85-92 VERY GOOD
75-84 SATISFACTORY
74-65 UNSATISFACTORY (credit will be given for written exams only)
65 and below no credit/score will be entered as 0
DETERMINATION OF PROGRESS STATUS
Students meeting the minimum requirements for academics and attendance at the evaluation point are making satisfactory academic progress until the next scheduled evaluation. Students will receive a hard copy of their Satisfactory Academic Progress Determination at the time of each of the evaluations. Students deemed not maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress may have their Title IV funding interrupted, unless the student is on warning or has prevailed upon appeal resulting in a status of probation.
WARNING
Students who fail to meet minimum requirements for attendance or academic progress are placed on warning and considered to be making satisfactory academic progress during the warning period. The student will be advised in writing on the actions required to attain satisfactory academic progress by the next evaluation. If at the end of the warning period, the student has still not met both the attendance and academic requirements, he/she may be placed on probation and, if applicable, the student may be deemed ineligible to receive Title IV funds.
PROBATION
Students who fail to meet minimum requirements for attendance or academic progress after the warning period will be placed on probation and considered to be achieving satisfactory academic progress during the probationary period, if the student appeals the decision, and prevails upon appeal. Additionally, only students who can meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy standards by the end of the evaluation period may be placed on probation. Students placed on an academic plan must be able to meet requirements set forth in the academic plan by the end of the next evaluation period. Students who are progressing according to their specific academic plan will be considered making Satisfactory Academic Progress. The student will be advised in writing of the actions required to attain satisfactory academic progress by the next evaluation. If at the end of the probationary period, the student has still not met both the attendance and academic requirements required for satisfactory academic progress or by the academic plan, he/she will
be determined as NOT making satisfactory academic progress and, if applicable, students will not be deemed eligible to receive Title IV funds.
RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS
Students may re-establish satisfactory academic progress and Title IV aid, as applicable, by meeting attendance and academic requirements by the end of the warning or probationary period.
INTERRUPTIONS, COURSE INCOMPLETES, WITHDRAWALS
If enrollment is temporarily interrupted for a Leave of Absence, the student will return to school in the progress status as prior to the leave of absence. Hours elapsed during a leave of absence will extend the student’s contract period and maximum time frame by the same number of days taken on the leave of absence and will not be included in the student’s cumulative attendance percentage calculation. Students who withdraw prior to completion of the course and wish to re-enroll will return to the same satisfactory academic progress status as at the time of the withdrawal. Course withdraws/incompletes do not affect prior grades, GPA and hours obtained.
APPEAL PROCEDURE
If a student is determined to not be making satisfactory academic progress, the student may appeal the determination within 10 calendar days. Reasons for which students may appeal a negative progress determination include death of a relative, an injury or illness of the student, or any other allowed special or mitigating circumstance. The student must submit a written appeal to the school on the designated form describing why they failed to meet the satisfactory academic progress standards, along with supporting documentation of the reasons why the determination should be reversed. The information should include what has changed about the student’s situation that allows them to achieve Satisfactory Academic Progress by the next evaluation point. Appeal documents will be reviewed, and a decision will be made and reported to the student within 30 calendar days. The appeal and the decision documents will be retained in
the student file. If the student prevails upon appeal, the satisfactory academic progress determination will be reversed, and federal financial aid will be reinstated, if applicable.
NON-CREDIT, REMEDIAL COURSES, REPETITIONS
Non-credit, remedial courses, and repetitions do not apply to this institution. Therefore, these items have no effect upon the school’s satisfactory academic progress standards.
TRANSFER HOURS
Regarding Satisfactory Academic Progress, a student’s transfer hours will be counted as both attempted and earned hours for the purpose of determining when allowable maximum time frame has been exhausted.
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Campus Safety and Security Reports
First Class Cosmetology School will publish a security report by October 1st to every student/prospective student/staff member upon request. This will also be available on the student services board. A copy of First Class Cosmetology School Annual Security Report may be requested by the Administrative/Student Services office. This report includes statistics for the previous year concerning reported crimes that occurred on-campus; property owned or controlled by First Class Cosmetology School; within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning sexual assault and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report by contacting the Administrative/Student Services office.
2020-2022 Campus Safety & Security Reports
Type of Offense
Criminal Homicide
Murder and Non-Negligent Manslaughter
Negligent Manslaughter
Forcible Sex Offense
Non-Forcible Sex Offense
Robbery
Aggravated Assault
Burglary
Motor Vehicle Theft
Arson
Hate Crimes
2021 2022 2023
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
See the complete 2022 Annual Security Report:
https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:9727287c-c7ba-4f42-8760-66ec9f73c1b2
Emergency Response/Evacuation
If there is an emergency or dangerous situation that occurs on the campus, the student/staff must immediately dial 911 and notify the closest Administrative/Student Service office. First Class Cosmetology School will, without delay will determine the content of the notification and inform the entire campus, unless the notification will, in the professional judgment of responsible authorities, compromise efforts to assist victims or to contain, respond to, or otherwise mitigate the emergency. Please contact a staff member, Administrative/Student Services, if there is a significant emergency. They will determine the content of the notification, and initiate the notification system. This list of people will include:
Char Jero: 608-362-5216, Ext. 2
Angie McCaslin: 608-362-5216, Ext. 2
Front Desk: 608-362-5216, Ext. 1
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The Clery Act
The Clery Act requires higher education institutions to give timely warnings of crimes that represent a threat to the safety of students or employees and to make public their campus security policies.
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Timely Emergency Warnings
The Administrative/Student Services team will be responsible for issuing a warning to the campus. The warning will be issued through our information meeting held with staff and students. This warning will also be located on our information bulletin board which is located in our student cafe area. Anyone with information warranting a timely warning should report the circumstances to the First Class Cosmetology School by phone at 608-362-5216. In the event an emergency warning should occur, students and staff will be notified immediately through verbal communication/student pagers/local media/website and posting by the time clocks to assure all students and staff are aware of the warning. This posting will be conducted and issued by the Student Services team and/or appropriate staff member.
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Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention
The Institute is a drug-free environment. No alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs are permitted in or around school property. Any student suspected of being under the influence will be sent home for the day. (The decision to dismiss a student is solely at the discretion of the Institute and need not be supported by actual proof of drug/alcohol abuse.) It is unlawful to sell, furnish or provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 according to the State of Wisconsin. Any student distributing illegal or prescribed drugs to other students will be immediately and permanently dismissed. The local CPD/IPD will be notified of any suspected distribution of illegal substances. Students taking over-the-counter medication that may affect functioning should inform the instructor.
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Student Participation may be terminated by School for the following causes: Possesses and/ or distributes alcohol or drugs in or around school property.
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Prevention Programs
Students and Employees are referred to the Administration/Student Services office to receive information on referral numbers. This information is accessible on the student services board located in the student lunch area.
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Universal Crisis and Drug Abuse Hotline: 1-800-392-0280
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A1-Anon/A1 Ateen (24) hour: 608-756-1720
AA (24 hour): 608-364-0520
Alcoholism Council Beloit: 608-473-0003
Drug & Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
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Vaccination Policy
The Institute requires no information regarding vaccinations from potential students to attend school.
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Voter Registration
Voter registration forms are available upon request in the financial aid office.
Visit this website for voter registration information:
http://www.eac.gov/assets/1/Page/National%20Mail%20Voter%20Registration%20Form%20-%20English.pdf
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Services for Students with Disabilities
Students are encouraged to contact the Institute to determine if their needs can be fulfilled through the programs offered by the school. This would include their classroom performance capabilities and have reasonable placement potential following graduation.
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Notice of Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Sex
First Class Cosmetology School(FCCS) is committed to complying with all laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in admission to, employment with, and otherwise in the operation of its educational program and activities.
Among the applicable laws, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sex discrimination and sexual harassment in schools. In compliance with Title IX, FCCS is committed to ensuring that all its students have equal opportunity to benefit from our program and activities, and that all its employees enjoy equal employment opportunity, free from sex discrimination and sexual harassment. The protections of Title IX also extend to third parties.
Additionally, the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (“Clery Act”) in part requires educational institutions such as FCCS to prohibit the offenses of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. There is some overlap between the requirements and prohibitions of Title IX and the Clery Act. All references to the “Title IX & Clery Policy” encompass FCCS’s policy and procedures in compliance with Title IX, the Clery Act, and all applicable laws that prohibit sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
The Title IX and Clery Policy is supplemental to FCCS’s policies generally prohibiting illegal discrimination and harassment against students and employees, including on the basis of sex, and includes certain additional safeguards and requirements pursuant to Title IX and the Clery Act. FCCS has developed this Title IX & Clery policy and the associated processes to ensure that all complaints of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking that occur in connection with FCCS’s program – whether brought by students, employees, or third parties – are promptly investigated and, where a violation is found, that FCCS takes action to end the conduct, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects.
It is important to be clear that FCCS may be limited in the type of response it can provide with respect to sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking that did not take place within the context of FCCS’s educational programs and activities. Where FCCS lacks a meaningful ability to investigate and take remedial action, it will provide assistance, in directing victims to resources and organizations able to assist with investigation, prosecution, shelter, victim services, and the like.
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TITLE IX & CLERY COORDINATOR
FCCS’s Title IX & Clery Coordinator (the “Coordinator”) oversees and supports FCCS’s enforcement of this Title IX & Clery Policy. The Coordinator’s contact information is as follows:
Title IX & Clery Coordinator
First Class Cosmetology School, 306 State St., Beloit WI 53511
Fax: 608-362-2320
Ph: 608-362-5216
The Title IX & Clery Coordinator is available to speak with students, employees, and third parties who have questions concerning this policy and/or wish to make a complaint of an alleged violation of this policy. Additional information concerning the role and duties of the Coordinator is provided below.
DEFINITIONS AND EXAMPLES OF CONDUCT PROHIBITED UNDER THIS POLICY
Sex Discrimination: Sex discrimination means treating an individual or group less favorably than another based upon the sex or gender of that individual or group. For students, it involves conduct or statements that deny the student(s) an equal opportunity to fully benefit from the school’s program and activities. For employees, it involves conduct or statements that deny the employee(s) an equal opportunity in employment. Sexual harassment is one form of sex discrimination.
Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is one form of sex discrimination. Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. It includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, nonverbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: (1) submission to such conduct is made a term or condition of enrollment or employment; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for enrollment- or employment-related decisions; or (3) such conduct has the effect of unreasonably interfering with school or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Sexual harassment also includes sexual assault, as defined below.
Sexual harassment is defined by the sexual nature of the conduct or communication, not the gender of the individuals involved. Therefore, it may be perpetrated by and against individuals of either gender, and between individuals who are of the same gender.
The determination of what constitutes sexual harassment will vary with the particular circumstances. Uncivil conduct or common profanity generally do not meet the definition of sexual harassment, except where sexual in nature and so severe or pervasive as to deny or limit the individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from the school’s program (in the case of a student) or to enjoy equal employment opportunity (in the case of an employee). A series of incidents may constitute sexual harassment, even if one of the incidents on its own would not rise to the level of harassment. At the same time, a single or isolated action may constitute sexual harassment when that action is sufficiently severe.
While hostile-environment sexual harassment may encompass a wide range of conduct, some examples of specifically prohibited conduct include:
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Acts of verbal, non-verbal, or physical aggression, intimidation or hostility based on gender, gender identity, or gender-stereotyping
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Use of offensive or demeaning terms that have a sexual connotation
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Objectionable physical closeness, behavior, actions, or contact
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Inappropriate or repeated suggestions regarding, or invitations to, social engagements or events, whether or not FCCS related
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Suggestions, express or implied, that the terms or conditions of enrollment or employment may depend on the granting of sexual favors
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Actions relating to a student’s or employee’s status with FCCS which is in fact impacted by providing or refusing to provide sexual favors
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Jokes or remarks of a sexual nature
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Showing or sending materials that have a sexual content or are of a sexual nature (such as cartoons, articles, pictures, etc.), either by e mail, interoffice mail, internet or otherwise
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Refusal to interact with a student, employee or guest in accordance with that individual’s gender identity (including without limitation, refusal to address and refer to the individual using their preferred name and pronouns)
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This list is not exhaustive. FCCS reserves the right to determine whether particular conduct violates its Title IX & Clery Policy or is otherwise inappropriate under other policies.
In determining whether certain conduct creates a hostile environment in violation of this policy, FCCS considers all relevant circumstances. Relevant factors may include, but are not limited to:
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The degree to which the conduct has affected one or more person’s education and/or employment
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The type, frequency, and duration of the conduct
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The identity of and relationship between the alleged harasser and the subject or subjects of the harassment
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The number of individuals involved
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Additionally, sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking, as defined below.
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Sexual Assault: Sexual assault is a form of sexual harassment as well as a crime. A range of conduct falls into the category of sexual assault, including without limitation sexual violence, sexual battery, sexual coercion, rape, or other sexual contact involving force, threat, intimidation, or without consent. “Consent” to sexual activity means the affirmative, unambiguous, and voluntary agreement to engage in a specific sexual activity during a sexual encounter. Consent is active and not passive. Silence, in and of itself, cannot be interpreted as consent.
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Domestic Violence: Domestic violence includes crimes of violence committed by:
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A current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim
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A person with who a victim shares a child in common
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A person who is living with or has lived with the victim as a spouse or partner
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A person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which this policy applies, or
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Any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction in which the acts occurred
Stalking: Stalking means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to (1) fear for his or her safety or the safety of others; or (2) suffer substantial emotional distress.
REPORTS & COMPLAINTS
Any student, employee or other person who believes that he or she has been subjected to any form of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking in violation of this policy should make a complaint. FCCS takes all such complaints seriously.
FCCS strongly encourages any person who wishes to make a complaint under this policy to bring that complaint directly to FCCS’s Title IX & Clery Coordinator. Likewise, an employee may bring such a complaint to their immediate supervisor and/ or manager. In each case, the complainant should understand that the complaint will be forwarded to the Title IX and Clery Coordinator.
FCCS also encourages each complainant to put his or her complaint in writing, providing a detailed description of the alleged events that are the basis for the complaint and a list of witnesses to the events.
At times, FCCS employees may have knowledge of conduct (by witnessing it or, alternatively, by hearing a second-hand report about the conduct) that may constitute a violation of this Title IX & Clery Policy.
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When the witnessed or reported conduct is perpetrated against a student, any (i) supervisory employee, (ii) student services specialist or student liaison, or (iii) educator who possesses that knowledge is expected to immediately report the matter to their supervisor and the Title IX & Clery Coordinator, even if the individual making a report requests that no action be taken.
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When the witnessed or reported conduct is perpetrated against an employee, any supervisory employee who possesses that knowledge is expected to immediately report the matter to their supervisor and the Coordinator, even if the individual making a report requests that no action be taken.
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Employees who fail to meet this reporting expectation will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
INVESTIGATORY & DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDINGS UNDER THIS POLICY
This section describes FCCS’s policies and procedures that will be followed in all investigations and disciplinary proceedings under the Title IX & Clery Policy, except as otherwise noted. Certain additional and different policies and procedures will apply FCCS’s investigatory and disciplinary proceedings in connection with complaints that involve an allegation of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault specifically. Please see the “Clery Procedures” in this policy below, which describes these supplemental policies and procedures.
FCCS seeks to conduct a prompt, fair, and impartial process from the initial investigation to the final result.
CONFIDENTIALITY
FCCS also seeks to handle each complaint and investigation with professionalism and discretion. A fair and effective investigation often requires that the details of the complaint and/or the identity of the complainant be shared with those individuals involved in and/or interviewed in the investigation. Such individuals, however, are expected to maintain the confidentiality of the matter to the extent possible.
Before beginning an investigation, FCCS will seek consent of the complainant to (i) proceed with the investigation and (ii) identify him or her in connection with the complaint. If the complainant does not provide consent on one or both of these points, FCCS will:
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Weigh the request(s) against its broader responsibility to provide an environment free from sex discrimination and sexual harassment for all, considering the totality of the circumstances (the seriousness of the alleged harassment, whether there have been other harassment complaints about the same individual, etc.)
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Inform the complainant whether it can comply with the request(s), as applicable
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If the request(s) are not granted, conduct the investigation, while taking steps to maintain confidentiality to the greatest extent possible.
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If the request(s) are granted, consider whether there are other steps that may be taken in lieu of investigation and/or identification of the complainant.
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Investigations Under the Title IX & Clery Policy
Each investigation shall be conducted by telephone and electronic communications by one or more complaint managers assigned by the Title IX and Clery Coordinator. In this process, the complainant(s) and subject(s) of the complaint may name witnesses and provide other evidence, as described below. The steps necessary to thoroughly investigate the complaint will vary based on the facts alleged, but will often include interviews of the complainant(s), the subject(s) of the complaint, and the identified witnesses, as well as a review of relevant documentation and relevant policies.
Except in extraordinary circumstances or in the case of investigations of reported dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault (see Clery Procedures, below), FCCS seeks to conclude each such investigation within 30 calendar days. The investigation process generally occurs in three stages:
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Stage 1: Intake of the complaint by the Title IX & Clery Coordinator, including determination of whether an investigation may proceed and the identification of the issues to be determined based on the allegations of the complaint
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Stage 2: Investigation of the allegations by the Coordinator, or a designated complaint manager, including investigatory interviews and review of any additional evidence
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Stage 3: Notice of outcome determination including, when applicable, disciplinary action(s) and remedial measure(s)
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FCCS seeks to conclude stage 1 within 10 days, stage 2 within 15 additional days; and stage 3 within 5 additional days. At times, an extension of these timeframes may be necessary and/or appropriate, due to time taken by a complainant to decide whether to provide consent, unavailability of witnesses, complexity or number of allegations under review, or other factors. FCCS retains discretion to determine when an extension of the general timelines is warranted based on the totality of the circumstances. Extensions of the timelines, when they occur, will be communicated to the complainant(s).
Where the investigation results in a finding of a violation of this policy, FCCS will take immediate steps to end the conduct, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects. Further information concerning the notification of outcomes is provided below.
OUTCOMES
At the conclusion of the investigation, the complaint manager will consider the evidence and assess the credibility of witnesses in order to make findings as to whether a violation of this policy has occurred. In making this decision, the complaint manager will apply the preponderance of the evidence standard to the factual allegations, by determining whether the alleged conduct is more likely than not to have occurred. As to the finding of facts reached under this standard, the complaint manager will also decide whether those facts constitute a violation of this Title IX & Clery Policy. The complaint manager will give the complainant(s) and subject(s) of the complaint written notification of the outcome (specifically, whether or not a violation of this policy was found to have occurred). In the event a violation was found to have occurred, FCCS will impose disciplinary action under its disciplinary policies, and, if appropriate, implement other remedial measures. Disciplinary action may include warnings, suspensions, or termination of enrollment or employment. Other remedial measures for the complainant, where appropriate, will be tailored to the particular circumstances presented
To request a list of available external counseling and advocacy resources, please contact the Title IX & Clery Coordinator.
Except in proceedings addressing complaints of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault (see Clery Procedures, below), the complainant will generally not be provided information of specific disciplinary action taken against other persons, unless the disciplinary action will directly impact the complainant, such as whether and/or when the subject(s) of the complaint may be present in the school environment.
STUDENT APPEALS
In the event that a student party to a complaint disagrees with the outcome of an investigation under this Title IX & Clery Policy, the student may seek a review of the outcome by submitting a written appeal.
An appeal under this policy must be made within 14 calendar days of receipt of the written notice of the outcome of the investigation. An appeal may be made on one or more of the following grounds only: (1) an error occurred that, if corrected, may change the outcome of the investigation; or (2) new information has arisen, that was not available or known to the student at the time of the investigation, which if considered may change the outcome of the investigation. Information that was known or available to the student during the investigation will not be considered.
The Committee will conduct an impartial review of the appeal and will provide the appealing student with a written determination. The Committee seeks to issue its determination on each appeal within 30 calendar days of its receipt of the appeal; however, this timeframe may be longer in certain cases.
Employee parties to a complaint under the Title IX & Clery Policy do not have a right of appeal.
Role of the Title IX & Clery Coordinator in the Investigation & Disciplinary Process
The investigatory and disciplinary proceedings under this policy will be overseen by the Title IX & Clery Coordinator. The Coordinator’s role will be to ensure that FCCS’s Title IX & Clery Policies and associated procedures are followed, in part by (i) seeking the complainant’s consent to conduct an investigation and disclose his or her name in connection with the complaint; (ii) guiding the complaint managers in order to facilitate and support their compliance with this policy; and (iii) ensuring that the outcome of each such complaint is appropriately communicated. More specifically, the Coordinator will:
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Upon receiving a complaint of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, seek the consent of the complainant to conduct the investigation and disclose his or her identity in connection with the complaint.
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Provide to complainants alleging sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking with a notice of their rights and options.
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In the event that a complainant requests that an investigation not be conducted, or that his or her identity not be revealed, communicate the determination on this request to the complainant and direct additional actions as appropriate.
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Recommend any interim protective measures to be taken during the course of the investigatory and disciplinary proceedings, before any findings are determined. Interim measures will be taken within the context of FCCS’s policies and might include placing a student or students on an absence for investigation, reassigning student rotation, placing an employee on administrative leave, limiting contact between the parties, or other measures. Any such interim protective measures will be maintained as confidential to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality will not impair FCCS’s ability to provide the protective measures.
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When an investigation may proceed, designate the appropriate complaint manager(s) to carry out a prompt and impartial investigation or carry out that investigation himself or herself.
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Review the procedural requirements for the investigation with the complaint manager, if he or she designates one, including without limitation that: (i) the complainant(s) and subject(s) of the complaint are provided equal opportunity to provide evidence and to identify witnesses; and (ii) that FCCS maintain the complaint and investigation confidential to the extent possible.
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Review the investigation documentation to determine whether the investigation, before it is closed, has been sufficient. Where additional steps are merited, the Coordinator will define those additional steps to be taken by the complaint manager or otherwise prior to concluding the investigation.
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Clery Procedures
Dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault are serious offenses that, when established, will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination from FCCS’s program.
When FCCS receives a report of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault (including rape, statutory rape, incest, or fondling) that occurred within the context of FCCS’s educational programs and activities, it will conduct an investigation and disciplinary proceeding. The policies and procedures outlined in this Title IX & Clery Policy (above) will govern the proceedings. Additionally, in the proceedings relating to an allegation of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault, the following additional policies and procedures will also apply:
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The complaint manager will give the complainant(s) and the subject(s) simultaneous written notification (typically by email) of any interim protective measures that have been instituted in response to the complaint.
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The complaint manager will notify any complainant and subject of the complainant of the date and time of his or her investigative interviews or other proceeding. The complaint manager will endeavor to agree upon a mutually agreeable time with each such individual, but reserves the right to set the time with advance notice.
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Each complainant and subject of a complaint will be permitted to have another person of his or her choice (excluding witnesses or potential witnesses to the events under investigation) present during any investigative interview or other proceeding, including an advisor of his or her choice. Any such advisor or other person who accompanies a complainant or subject will not be permitted to speak during the process (such as by objecting to questions, addressing the FCCS employees conducting the proceeding, or questioning the complainant or subject), or otherwise interrupt or disrupt the process. In short, the advisor or other person may participate as a supportive, but silent, partner.
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FCCS seeks to conclude an investigation of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault within 60 calendar days. The investigation process occurs in the same three stages as outlined above, with the following revised timeframes: FCCS seeks to conclude stage 1 within 10 days, stage 2 within 45 additional days; and stage 3 within 5 additional days. At times, an extension of these timeframes may be necessary for good cause. Extensions of the timelines and the reasons for extension, when they occur, will be communicated to the complainant(s) and subject of the complaint in writing.
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The complaint manager will give the complainant(s) and the subject(s) simultaneous written notification (typically by email) of the final decision in the matter and information about the appeals process available to students. This information will include any disciplinary actions issued to the subject(s) of the complaint and describe the rationale for the result and any disciplinary actions.
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Reports to Public Law Enforcement Agencies
A complainant who is a victim of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault also has the option—but is not required—to notify public law enforcement authorities. FCCS’s Title IX & Clery Coordinator will assist in notifying authorities, upon request, and irrespective of whether the alleged conduct occurred within the context of FCCS’s educational programs and activities. FCCS will follow its own policies and procedures in connection with such a complaint whether or not a victim decides to notify law enforcement.
It is important for those who believe they have been subjected to crimes of dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and/or sexual assault to preserve evidence of the incident as it may be necessary to prove a crime or to obtain a protective order.
Victims of domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual assault may choose to go to the hospital where they will receive a medical examination to treat injuries and (in the case of sexual assault) address concerns about sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. In addition, evidence can be collected that can be critical in documenting the injuries and\or proving the identity of the assailant. In seeking out such an examination, a victim will not be required to file a police report; however, should a victim ultimately decide to make a report, seek a protective order, and/or pursue criminal charges, such medical evidence may prove valuable. The best evidence is collected within twelve (12) hours of the assault, but you should not assume that it is too late if more than 12 hours have passed. Instead, reach out to one of the many resources available for guidance.
Victims of stalking are likewise urged to preserve evidence of the stalking conduct (such as text messages, other relevant smart phone data or social media activity, and photographs and audio recordings where they can be safely obtained).
Anti-Retaliation Policy
FCCS will not retaliate against any person for filing a good-faith complaint or for participating or assisting in good faith in an investigation under this policy. An employee or student who retaliates will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination from FCCS.
Any student or employee who feels that he or she has been subject to retaliation in violation of this policy should report the matter immediately to the Title IX & Clery Coordinator.