Washington Administrative Code Title 132H - Bellevue College
Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 132H - Bellevue College comprises the official rules and regulations specifically adopted by Bellevue College (Community College District VIII), a public institution of higher education in Washington State. These rules, created under the authority of state law (primarily RCW 28B.50.140), govern the internal operations of the college, the conduct of its students, employees, and visitors, and the management of its facilities and resources.
This title serves as the formal framework for how Bellevue College functions and interacts with its community. It's a critical resource for students, faculty, staff, and the public to understand their rights, responsibilities, and the procedures for engaging with the college.
Here's a breakdown of the common types of chapters and regulations found within WAC Title 132H:
I. Governance and Administration:
Chapter 132H-106 - Bylaws and standing orders of Community College District VIII: Outlines the structure and operating procedures of the college's Board of Trustees.
Chapter 132H-133 - Organization and general operating policies of Community College District VIII / Commercial activity of Community College District VIII: Defines the college's organizational structure and its policies regarding engaging in commercial activities (e.g., providing goods or services for a fee) to ensure they align with the college's educational mission.
II. Student-Related Regulations:
Chapter 132H-120 - The student code of Community College District VIII / Chapter 132H-126 - Student conduct code of Bellevue College: These chapters (with 132H-125 being repealed and replaced by 132H-126) are highly important for students. They detail:
Student rights and responsibilities: Such as the right to due process, a learning environment free from discrimination, and academic freedom.
Prohibited conduct: Including academic dishonesty (cheating, plagiarism), harassment, disruptive behavior, abuse of others, and violations of college policies (e.g., alcohol/drug policies, weapons policies).
Disciplinary procedures: The processes for investigating alleged violations, holding hearings, and imposing sanctions (e.g., probation, suspension, expulsion).
Chapter 132H-122 - Student Financial Debts: Addresses policies and procedures related to student financial obligations to the college.
Chapter 132H-160 - Admissions, residency classification and registration regulations - Schedule of fees and financial aid for Community College District VIII: Covers the rules for:
Applying for admission.
Determining residency for tuition purposes.
Course registration.
Tuition and fees.
General policies regarding financial aid (though specific financial aid program rules are often federal).
Chapter 132H-400 - Student athletic participation: Regulations related to student involvement in intercollegiate athletics, including eligibility requirements.
Chapter 132H-410 - Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Outlines the college's policies for protecting the privacy of student education records in accordance with federal law.
III. Campus Operations and Conduct:
Chapter 132H-116 - Parking and traffic rules: Establishes regulations for vehicles and pedestrians on campus, including parking permits, fines, and enforcement.
Chapter 132H-121 - General conduct: Covers broader conduct expectations for all individuals on campus, not just students.
Chapter 132H-136 - Library media center: Rules governing the use of library resources and facilities.
Chapter 132H-140 - College Property Use: Defines the procedures and conditions for using college facilities and grounds by both college groups and external organizations, ensuring that such use aligns with the college's mission.
Chapter 132H-142 - First amendment activities for Community College District VIII: Specifies rules for expressive activities (e.g., protests, demonstrations, distribution of literature) on campus, balancing free speech rights with the college's need to maintain order and its educational mission. This often designates specific "limited public forum" areas.
Chapter 132H-204 - Vehicle use policy: Policies for the use of college-owned vehicles.
Chapter 132H-450 - Environmental protection policy for Community College District VIII: Outlines the college's commitment and policies regarding environmental protection.
IV. Public Access and Hearings:
Chapter 132H-108 - Formal hearing rules for contested case hearings: Details the formal administrative procedures the college follows for contested cases (e.g., appeals of disciplinary actions), ensuring due process.
Chapter 132H-169 - Access to public records at Bellevue College: Specifies how individuals can request public records from Bellevue College in accordance with the Washington Public Records Act.
Purpose of WAC Title 132H:
The overarching purpose of WAC Title 132H is to provide transparency, accountability, and clarity in the operations of Bellevue College. It serves to:
Define the legal framework for the college's existence and functions.
Govern the rights and responsibilities of students, employees, and the public within the college community.
Establish fair and consistent procedures for various processes, including student conduct, facility use, and public records requests.
Ensure an orderly and safe environment conducive to learning and the college's educational mission.
In essence, these administrative rules are the official internal "laws" of Bellevue College, providing the detailed implementation of broader state statutes governing community colleges in Washington.
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