adult education student policies & financial aid … · ohio approved professional development...

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7285 Old Oak Boulevard Middleburg Heights, OH 44130-3375

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ADULT EDUCATION

STUDENT POLICIES & FINANCIAL AID

CONSUMER HANDBOOK

2018 - 2019

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TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I INSTITUTIONAL INFORMATION ..................................................................................8

ABOUT POLARIS CAREER CENTER ..........................................................................................8

ACCREDITATION .........................................................................................................................9

ADULT EDUCATION JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAMS ............................................... 10

JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAM CALENDAR ................................................................ 11

ADULT EDUCATION OFFICE HOURS....................................................................................... 11

POLARIS CAREER CENTER BOARD OF EDUCATION ............................................................ 12

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION .................................................................................................... 12

ADULT EDUCATION STAFF ...................................................................................................... 13

POLARIS CAREER CENTER LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ................................ 14

ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATIONAL CHART ........................................... 14

POLARIS CAREER CENTER ADULT EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION & STAFF ................... 15

ADULT EDUCATION INSTRUCTIONAL ROSTER ..................................................................... 16

SECTION II FINANCIAL AID .......................................................................................................... 18

ACADEMIC YEAR DEFINITION POLICY ................................................................................... 18

FEDERAL TITLE IV FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS .................................................................... 18

PROGRAMS ELIGIBLE FOR FINANCIAL AID ........................................................................... 23

APPLYING FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID ................................................................................ 23

AWARDING OF TITLE IV FUNDS (Pell and Direct Loans) ......................................................... 24

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR POLARIS CAREER CENTER FINANCIAL AID PROFESSIONALS .................................................................................................................................................... 25

CONFIRMATION OF CITIZENSHIP ........................................................................................... 26

COST OF ATTENDANCE ........................................................................................................... 26

DEPENDENCY STATUS ............................................................................................................ 33

DEPENDENCY OVERRIDE POLICY .......................................................................................... 33

GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT DISCLOSURE POLICY .................................................................... 34

DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS ..................................................................................................... 34

ENTRANCE & EXIT COUNSELING ............................................................................................ 35

FEDERAL RETURN OF TITLE IV FUNDS .................................................................................. 36

FINANCIAL AID AWARD LETTER NOTIFICATION ................................................................... 38

VERIFICATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ....................................................................... 38

IMPACT OF A DRUG CONVICTION ON FINANCIAL AID.......................................................... 41

OTHER FINANCIAL AID SOURCES .......................................................................................... 42

PROFESSIONAL JUDGEMENT/SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES ................................................. 43

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) POLICY ....................................................... 45

RETURNING STUDENTS/COURSE REPETITION .................................................................... 49

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TRANSFER STUDENTS ............................................................................................................. 50

STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY ................................................................................................ 50

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA ............................................................................................. 50

U.S. PERMANENT RESIDENTS AND OTHER ELIGIBLE NONCITIZENS ................................ 51

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES FOR FINANCIAL AID: ............................................................. 53

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF TITLE IV HEA LOANS (NSLDS) .............................................. 53

UNUSUAL ENROLLMENT HISTORY POLICY ........................................................................... 53

WITHDRAWAL POLICY .............................................................................................................. 55

REFUND POLICY ....................................................................................................................... 56

SECTION III SCHOOL POLICIES & GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................. 58

ABILITY TO BENEFIT ................................................................................................................. 58

ASPIRE: ESOL/GED .................................................................................................................. 58

ACADEMIC/ATTENDANCE PROBATION POLICY & PROCEDURE ......................................... 58

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/PLAGIARISM POLICY .................................................................... 59

ACHADEMIX STUDENT DATA MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE ................................................... 59

ACCEPTABLE USE OF STUDENT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY POLICY .......................... 59

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENT POLICY .................................................................................... 62

ATTENDANCE POLICY .............................................................................................................. 62

BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY ............................................................................................... 63

BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ....................................................... 63

BOOKS AND SUPPLIES POLICY .............................................................................................. 63

CARE OF THE BUILDING AND GROUNDS ............................................................................... 63

CAREER PORTFOLIO FOR PROGRAM COMPLETERS .......................................................... 64

CELL/SMART PHONE USAGE POLICY..................................................................................... 64

CHANGE OF STUDENT CONTACT INFORMATION ................................................................. 64

COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................... 64

CONSUMER DISCLOSURE ....................................................................................................... 64

COPYRIGHT PROTECTION ....................................................................................................... 65

CRIME AWARENESS AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT ............................................................. 65

DRESS AND GROOMING GUIDELINES .................................................................................... 66

DRIVING and PARKING ............................................................................................................. 67

DRUG PREVENTION PROGRAM .............................................................................................. 67

EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES (CRISIS RESPONSE PLAN) .................................................................................................................................................... 70

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY, DISCRIMINATION, AND HARASSMENT POLICY .. 70

EVALUATION OF PROGRAM .................................................................................................... 70

EXCUSED ABSENCE POLICY ................................................................................................... 70

EXTERNSHIP ACTIVITY ............................................................................................................ 70

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FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) ................................................... 71

FOOD .......................................................................................................................................... 72

FULL SERVICE CENTER DESIGNATION .................................................................................. 72

GRADE POLICY ......................................................................................................................... 72

GRIEVANCE POLICY/PROCEDURE ......................................................................................... 73

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA VERIFICATION POLICY .................................................................. 74

JOB SEARCH ASSISTANCE ...................................................................................................... 74

LIABILITY .................................................................................................................................... 74

MISREPRESENTATION POLICY ............................................................................................... 75

NATIONAL CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (NCCER) ......... 75

OFFICIAL FILES & RECORDS OF STUDENTS ......................................................................... 75

CANCELLATION POLICY ........................................................................................................... 75

PROGRAM COSTS .................................................................................................................... 75

RE-ADMISSION POLICY ............................................................................................................ 83

CERTIFICATION RE-TEST EXAMS POLICY ............................................................................. 84

REFUND POLICY ....................................................................................................................... 84

SAFETY STANDARDS ............................................................................................................... 84

SCHOOL CLOSING POLICY ...................................................................................................... 84

SECURITY .................................................................................................................................. 85

SMOKING & TOBACCO ............................................................................................................. 85

SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES POLICY ..................... 86

STUDENT DATA COLLECTION POLICY ................................................................................... 86

STUDENT DATA SECURITY ...................................................................................................... 86

STUDENT PERSONNEL SERVICES ......................................................................................... 86

STUDENT RIGHT-TO-KNOW ACT ............................................................................................. 87

STUDENT SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY ............................................................................ 87

THEFT POLICY ........................................................................................................................... 88

TRANSCRIPT REQUEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................... 88

TRANSFER POLICIES................................................................................................................ 88

TUITION PAYMENT PLAN POLICY ........................................................................................... 89

VACCINATION POLICY .............................................................................................................. 89

VETERANS RECEIVING BENEFITS ACADEMIC AND ATTENDANCE PROBATION POLICY 89

VETERANS POLICY FOR EVALUATION OF PRIOR CREDIT .................................................. 89

VISITORS .................................................................................................................................... 90

WEAPONS POLICY .................................................................................................................... 90

WITHDRAWAL POLICY .............................................................................................................. 91

WORKKEYS® ASSESSMENTS & ACT INFORMATION ............................................................ 92

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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT ............................................................................................... 92

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SECTION I

INSTITUTIONAL

INFORMATION

[8]

SECTION I

INSTITUTIONAL INFORMATION

ABOUT POLARIS CAREER CENTER Polaris Career Center has been providing career development, workforce development, and economic development services to individuals, business, industry, labor, communities and other organizations in northeast Ohio since 1975. The Polaris Career Center, which opened in 1975, is located on a 61-acre site in Middleburg Heights, Ohio. The $9 million, 240,000 square-foot center houses 35 classrooms, 30 laboratories, and five conference/resource areas. Additional building features include the following:

First Floor

Staffed visitor Welcome Center

16 large labs (various Industrial, Cosmetology, Science labs)

3 kitchens (for the school restaurant, the bakery, and café)

Café and conference space

Resource media center

4 meeting rooms

10 theory/classrooms with Smart Boards and data projectors

Commons area for student activities (including award ceremonies and graduations)

Adult Education and High School offices

In-house technology department, including laptop carts throughout the building

In-house maintenance department (with in-house custodial services)

Computer lab

Restrooms

Second Floor

9 large labs (Medical, Dental, Public Safety)


Central administration offices

Auditorium (seating for 100)

3 meeting rooms

Restrooms

Third Floor

9 labs (PC and Mac computers, Early Child Care, Medical Billing & Coding, Pharmacy Technician)


Adult Education ABLE (Adult Basic Literacy Education) classrooms/offices

Restrooms

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The Polaris Adult Education Division offers comprehensive education and training services along with hundreds of courses and seminars. Among these are: computer and information technology training, healthcare and industrial trades, basic skills and GED® preparation, career counseling and placement assistance. Many of these services are key to individuals entering the workplace, seeking a new career, or looking to upgrade their skills. A host of personal enrichment classes are also offered. In addition, Polaris Career Center also delivers on-site corporate training and consulting services designed to update the skills of company employees. Whether it’s a one-day computer seminar or human resources consultation, services can be tailored to meet the needs of the business community. In addition, Polaris Career Center provides specialized career and technical training for high school students from the following communities: Berea, Brooklyn, Brook Park, Fairview Park, Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted, Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township & Strongsville. Since its beginning, Polaris Career Center has granted certificates of completion to over 15,000 high school students, and has served over 1,000,000 adults served through career and technical training and personal enrichment courses. The best sources of information for students are the Polaris Career Center Adult Education catalog and the Student Policies & Financial Aid Consumer Handbook. If you still have unanswered questions, please feel free to contact the Adult Education Office at 440-891-7600.

ACCREDITATION Polaris Career Center is accredited by the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE) 7840 Roswell Rd. Building 300, Suite 325, Atlanta, GA 30350, Telephone: 770-396-3898/FAX: 770-396-3790, www.council.org. As a member of the University System of Ohio, Polaris Career Center is governed and approved by the Ohio Department of Higher Education. All instructors are qualified practitioners in their area of instruction with a minimum of three years of related work experience and are certified instructors by the Ohio Department of Education. .

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ADULT EDUCATION JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAMS

2018 - 2019 (* Indicates Financial Aid Eligible – for those who qualify)

PROGRAMS PROGRAM LICENSURE/CERTIFICATIONS AVAILABLE

TOTAL TUITION

Automotive Service Technician *

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) G1

Section 609 MACS

$8,995 (Materials & Book fees of

$1,149 included)

Cardiographic Technician

Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT)

Certified EKG Technician (CET)

AHA Healthcare Provider CPR Certification


$588 included)

Cosmetology Academy * State of Ohio Cosmetologist License (OSCB) $13,995

(Materials & Book fees of $984 included)

Dental Assisting *

Certified Ohio Dental Assistant (CODA)

Ohio Dental Assistant Radiographer License

AHA Healthcare Provider CPR Certification


$459 included)

Early Child Care Education/Child Development Associate *

American Heart Association CPR/AED

Communicable Disease for Childcare Personnel

American Heart Association Pediatric First Aid

Child Abuse Recognition and Prevention Training

Ohio Approved Professional Development Certificate

Child Development Associate (CDA)


$915 included)

HVAC/R *

National Center for Construction Education & Research – CORE Curriculum (NCCER)

R-410A Safety Training and Certification for Technicians

608 EPA Refrigerant Recovery Universal

OSHA 10-Hour

Apprentice PM Tech Certification

Industry Competency Exam (ICE) - Residential Air Conditioning & Heating


$537 included)

Medical Assisting *

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)

AHA Healthcare Provider CPR

Heartsaver First Aid


$930 included)

Medical Billing & Coding *

Certified Medical Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS)

ProHIPAA

Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS)


$1,565 included)

Pharmacy Technician * Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)



$751 included)

Phlebotomy Certification Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)



$377 included)

Police Academy (OPOTA)*

Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission (OPOTC)

American Heart Association First Aid & CPR/AED

ASP Baton Certification

Taser Certification

$6,995 (Materials & Book

fees of $824 included)

Precision/CNC Machine Technology *

National Institute for Metalworking Skills, Inc. (NIMS)

OSHA 10-Hour


$555 included)

Welding *

American Welding Society (AWS)

National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) Core Curriculum and Welding Level I

OSHA 10-Hour


$743 included)

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JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAM CALENDAR (Classes will not be held on the following dates)

EVENINGS WEEKDAYS WEEKENDS

Wednesday 7/4/2018 Wednesday 7/4/2018

Monday 9/3/2018 Monday 9/3/2018 Saturday & Sunday 9/1/2018 & 9/02/2018 (except OPOTA)

Wednesday 11/21/2018

Thursday 11/22/2018 Thursday 11/22/2018

Friday 11/23/2018 Friday 11/23/2018 Saturday & Sunday 11/24/2018 & 11/25/2018 (except OPOTA)

Sunday 12/23/2018 through Tuesday 1/1/2019 (except OPOTA)



Thursday 1/17/2019

Monday 1/21/2019 Monday 1/21/2019

Monday 2/18/2019 Monday 2/18/2019

Friday 4/19/2019 Saturday & Sunday 4/20/2019 & 4/21/2019 (except OPOTA)

Thursday 5/9/2019

Monday 4/27/2019 Saturday & Sunday 4/25/2019 & 4/26/2019 (except OPOTA)

ADULT EDUCATION OFFICE HOURS

July 1 - August 10, 2018 Monday – Thursday .................... 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM August 11, 2018 – June 2019 Monday - Thursday ..................... 8:00 AM - 8:30 PM Friday .......................................... 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator

Available by appointment - 440-891-7668 or [email protected] Administrative Coordinator - For questions regarding student tuition accounts and Job &

Career Training registration – Available by appointment - 440-891-7653 [email protected]

*NOTE: Evening office hours are not available when evening classes are not in session. This occurs during holiday periods and between semesters.

mailto:[email protected]

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POLARIS CAREER CENTER BOARD OF EDUCATION Mr. Richard O. Micko, President Strongsville City School District Mr. Thomas R. Herbster, Vice President North Olmsted City School District Mr. Frank Fabrizi Strongsville City School District Mr. Matt Hrubey Fairview Park City School District Mr. James Oper Brooklyn City School District Mr. Greg Surtman Olmsted Falls City School District Mr. Fred Szabo Berea City School District DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION Robert Timmons Superintendent Mike Robinson Treasurer Chris McCully Assistant Superintendent Karen Rayk Adult Education Director

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ADULT EDUCATION STAFF

Adult Education Administrative Staff Adult Education Director 440-891-7641 Karen Rayk [email protected]

Coordinator of Corporate Partnerships 440-891-7622 Pam Vizer [email protected]

Marketing Specialist 440-891-7601 Laura Davies [email protected]

Adult Education Staff Administrative Coordinator 440-891-7653 Kathryn Flanigan [email protected]

Financial Aid Coordinator 440-891-7612 Jessica Hudson [email protected]

Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator 440-891-7668 Ali Graham [email protected]

Transitions Coordinator 440-891-7697 Theresa Liska [email protected]

Student Employment Liaison 440-891-7651 Maureen Lehman [email protected]

Business Coordinator/Personal Enrichment 440-891-7646 Nada Koury [email protected]

Child Care Program Coordinator 440-891-7697 Theresa Liska [email protected]

ASPIRE Coordinator 440-891-7757 Anne Howard [email protected]

Motorcycle Safety Training Coordinator 440-891-7664 Tim Stahlberg [email protected]

Adult Education Support Staff

Adult Education Secretary 440-891-7629 Cathy Seaman [email protected]

Adult Education Secretary 440-891-7718 Penny Friend [email protected]

Adult Education Secretary (Evenings) 440-891-7756 Deanna Balogh [email protected]

Security Guard - Daytime 440-829-8652 or 440-891-7627 Jeff Traine [email protected]

Security Guard – Evenings 440-829-8652 or 440-891-7627 Dave McGlynn [email protected]

















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POLARIS CAREER CENTER LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

ADULT EDUCATION DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

Bo

ard

of

Edu

cati

on

Superintendent

Facility Manager

Assistant

Superintendent

Information Technology Coordinator

Director of Pupil Personnel/Satellite

ProgrammingAssistant Principal

Adult Education Director

High School Principal

Assistant Principal

Coordinator of Corporate Partnerships

Director of Community Outreach

Treasurer

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POLARIS CAREER CENTER ADULT EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION & STAFF

NAME TITLE DEPARTMENT

Bob Timmons Superintendent Central Administration

Mike Robinson Treasurer Treasurer’s Office

Chris McCully Assistant Superintendent Central Administration

Karen Rayk AE Director Adult Education

Laura Davies Marketing Specialist Central Administration

Colleen Aholt Assistant Treasurer Treasurer’s Office

Renee Bosso Executive Assistant (Payroll) Treasurer’s Office

Jessica Hudson AE Financial Aid Coordinator Treasurer’s Office

Deanna Balogh AE Secretary (Evening) Adult Education

Kathryn Flanigan AE Administrative Coordinator Adult Education

Penny Friend AE Secretary Adult Education

Ali Graham AE Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator

Adult Education

Anne Howard ASPIRE Coordinator Adult Education

Theresa Liska AE Transitions Coordinator Adult Education

Nada Koury AE Business Coordinator/Personal Enrichment Coordinator

Adult Education

Cathy Seaman AE Secretary Adult Education

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ADULT EDUCATION INSTRUCTIONAL ROSTER

NAME

MOST

ADVANCED DEGREE

YEAR

OF EMPLOYMENT

CERTIFICATIONS AND/OR

LICENSES

EXPERIENCE

PHONE NUMBER

EMAIL ADDRESS

Jason Johndro Autoservice Technician

HS Diploma 2016 ASE Master Certificate

27 yrs./field 440-891-7600 [email protected]

Robert Jindra Cardiographic Technician

HS Diploma 2014 CCT 6 yrs./field 440-891-7600 rjindra@polaris. edu

Dee Dee Crider Cosmetology Academy

Associates Degree

2016 Instructor License

10 yrs field experience, 3 as a product educator

440-891-7600 [email protected]

Kay Wakut Cosmetology Academy

High School Diploma

2016 Instructor License Advanced License

31 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 kwakut@polaris. edu

Ashley Carnes Dental Assisting

High School Diploma

2013 CODA CDA EFDA

7 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 acarnes@ polaris.edu

Lori Reese Dental Assisting

High School Diploma

2015 CDA EFDA

17 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 ljamiol@ polaris.edu

Melissa Wolfe Early Child Care Education/CDA

Masters of Education, Bachelor of ECE

2018 M. Ed. 20yrs./Field 440-891-7682 [email protected]

Eric Noss HVAC/R

High School Diploma

2013 HVAC Ohio License #45889

34 yrs/Field 440-891-7663 enoss@polaris. edu

Amy Hrouda-Traum Medical Assisting

Associates of Applied Science

2015 CMA 15 yrs/Field 440-891-7710 [email protected]

Peg Chipka Medical Assisting

High School Diploma

2018 CMA 10 yrs/Field 440-891-7710 [email protected]

Sharion Thompson Medical Billing and Coding

Master of Education, Bachelor of Education

2017 Registered Medical Assistant

19 yrs./ Instructor 5 yrs./Field

440-891-7600 [email protected]

Ernst Oergel, Commander OPOTA

Bachelor of Science

2002 OPOTC 34 yrs/Field 440-891-7670 eoergel@ polaris.edu

Paul Shephard, Assistant Commander, OPOTA

Master of Education

2005 OPOTC 22 yrs/Field 440-891-7613 jtraine@ polaris.edu

Sean Flanigan, Assistant Commander, OPOTA

Bachelor of Science

2002 OPOTC 24 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 [email protected]

Curtis Banks Pharmacy Technician

High School Diploma

2017 Certified Pharmacy Technician

20 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 [email protected]

Diane Neil, Phlebotomy Certification

High School Diploma

2013 ASCP, CPT 38 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 dneil@ polaris.edu

Chris Conrad Precision/CNC Machine Technology

High School Diploma

2012

Tool & Dye Journeymen Instrument Maker- Journeymen

38 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 cconrad@ polaris.edu

Johnathan Veneziano, Precision/CNC Machine Technology

Associates Degree in Manufacturing

2016 Tool & Dye Journeymen

10 yrs./Field 440-891-7600 jvenezia@ polaris.edu

John Napier, Welding

High School Diploma

1997 Journeyman 44 yrs/Field 440-891-7600 jnapier@ polaris.edu





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SECTION II

FINANCIAL AID

INFORMATION

[18]

SECTION II

FINANCIAL AID

ACADEMIC YEAR DEFINITION POLICY The student’s Title IV aid is applied to an academic school year of at least 900 clock hours over at least 26 weeks. The Award Year definition used by Polaris Career Center for the 2018-2019 school year for its programs are as follows:

Academic Year Definition

Hours Weeks

Automotive Service Technician 900 39

Cosmetology Academy 900 44

Dental Assisting 900 42

Early Childhood Care Education/CDA 900 39

HVAC Day 900 26

HVAC Evening 900 36

Medical Assisting - Fall Day 946 39

Medical Assisting - Spring Evening 946 38

Medical Billing and Coding - Fall Day 900 37

Police Academy 900 37

Pharmacy Tech 900 40

Precision Machining CNC 900 40

Welding 900 32

Financial aid funds are divided into two payment periods per academic year consisting of one-half of the hours and weeks of the student’s program. In the first payment period, Polaris will receive one disbursement in the student’s name which will total one-half of the student’s Title IV aid and the remaining half of aid will be issued in one disbursement during the second payment period. FEDERAL TITLE IV FINANCIAL AID PROGRAMS Federal Pell Grant Overview The maximum Pell grant award a student may receive based on EFC=0

$6095 for a 900+-clock hour program $5180 for a 765-clock hour program $4876 for a 720-clock hour program $4741 for a 700-clock hour program

$4063 for a 600-clock hour program

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The Federal Pell grant is given with no repayment expected. The Pell Grant is designed to provide a “floor” upon which other financial aid programs are built. Any student wishing to receive a Federal Pell grant at this institution must meet the eligibility requirements established by the U.S. Department of Education. To receive a Federal Pell Grant a student must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA must be completed online at www.fafsa.gov. The student must put the Polaris school code 016475 on the FAFSA form. After the FAFSA has been process by the Department of Education, as Student Aid Report (SAR) will be issued. This report will contain a number referred to as the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Financial Aid award amounts are based on the student’s EFC, calculated from the previous year’s income information submitted on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Pell grant funds are meant to assist students with tuition and will not cover tuition costs completely. Students are required to self-pay the balance of tuition not covered by the Pell grant and/or the student may apply for a student loan. All Pell grant funds, when received, are applied directly to the student’s tuition balance. To remain eligible for Pell grant funds, the student must meet Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). William D. Ford Direct Student Loan Overview Direct loans must be repaid to the Federal government. After students graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment, they will have a six-month grace period before they are required to begin repayment. The student will receive communication from an assigned servicing agency the U.S. Department of Education chooses to manage the loan repayments. Federal Direct Subsidized Loan – A subsidized loan is awarded based on need, as determined by federal regulations. As student may be eligible to request a maximum of $3500 (less processing fee) for the first year of undergraduate study. The Dept. of Education will pay (subsidize) the interest that accrues on your loan during certain periods. Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans – An unsubsidized loan is not awarded based on need and the student is responsible for interest that accrues during in-school, deferment, grace and repayment periods. The unsubsidized loan is the difference between the cost of attendance and other aid, (including subsidized loan) not to exceed $5,500 for a dependent student and $9,500 for an independent student, for the first year of undergraduate study. Undergraduate Lifetime Loan Limits apply. See https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized for current loan limits Annual Loan Limits for Independent and Dependent students (as recognized on the FAFSA) also apply. The Annual Loan Limits for both subsidized and unsubsidized loans for dependent students are $5,500 and for independent students $9,500. (No more than $3,500 of this amount may be in subsidized loans) Interest Rates - Interest rates are subject to change each year on July 1st. For the most current loan rates, see https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized. Loan Processing Fees – There is a loan fee on all Federal Direct Subsidized Loans and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans. The loan fee is a percentage of the loan amount and is proportionately deducted from each loan disbursement. The percentage varies depending on when the loan is first disbursed. Loan fees are also subject to change. For the most current processing fees, see https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized.

http://www.fafsa.gov/

https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/types/loans/subsidized-unsubsidized



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Default - A student who is in default (has ceased to make repayments on any previous student loans) is not eligible to receive a Pell Grant or a Federal Direct loan. Polaris Career Center contracts with Wright International Student Services (WISS) to assist students with loan repayment (www.wiss.info). Deferment/Forbearance - A student can receive a deferment/forbearance on a previous loan, if he/she meets the requirements, by contacting their lender or loan servicer and requesting a deferment and/or forbearance form. A borrower who requests a deferment/forbearance should continue making loan payments until he/she receives notification from the lender that the deferment has been approved. These periods do not count toward the length of the time you have to repay your loans. A student cannot receive a deferment/forbearance for a loan that is already in default. For more information, visit studentaid.gov. Repayment Plans – There are several repayment plans available, providing the flexibility you need, and you can switch plans at any time. For a review of all repayment plans, to estimate payments and interest, visit studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans.

http://www.wiss.info/

http://www.studentaid.gov/

http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-laons

[21]

Repayment Estimator

Private Education Loans – Polaris Career Center does not offer institutional loans, nor participate in private education loans, but we will provide information the student needs to complete a self-certification form for a private lender. Code of Conduct for Educational Loans - Polaris Career Center adopts and adheres to the Code of Conduct established by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA). See full disclosure under ‘Code of Conduct for Polaris Career Center Financial Aid Professionals’ below. Student Loan Servicer – Once your loan is disbursed, it will be assigned to a federal servicer. It is important to stay in contact with your servicer and let them know if your information changes (address, phone, email). If you are unsure of who your servicer is, visit www.nslds.ed.gov FSA Student Loan Ombudsman – As a last resort, to settle disputes about your student loan, you may contact the ombudsman at: Phone: 877.557.2575 Fax: 606.396.4821 Online: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans.disputes/prepare Mail: US Department of Education, FSA Ombudsman Group, PO Box 1843 Monticello, KY 42633 For further information, visit studentloans.gov or contact the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator at 440-891-7668.

http://www.nslds.ed.gov/

https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans.disputes/prepare

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PELL GRANT

600-Clock Hour Program LOAN AMOUNT

$4,063.00

Independent Subsidized $ 2,333

Unsubsidized $ 4,000

Dependent Subsidized $ 2,333


700-Clock Hour Program LOAN AMOUNT

$4,741.00 n/a

720-Clock Hour Program

$4,876.00





765-Clock Hour Program

$5,180.00





900+ Clock Hour Program

$6,095.00





*NOTE: The U.S Department of Education Federal Direct Loan Program charges an origination fee on each student loan. The fee for 2017-18 is 1.066%. Congress will announce the fee for 2018-19 in late May of 2018.

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It is highly recommended the student start the application process for all financial aid options well in advance of registering for a program. All financial aid must be confirmed with the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator before registration can be initiated. PROGRAMS ELIGIBLE FOR FINANCIAL AID

(900+ clock hours - for those students who qualify)

Cosmetology Academy (1st year) Dental Assisting Medical Assisting Medical Billing & Coding

(720 clock hours - for those students who qualify)

Automotive Service Technician


Police Academy (700 clock hours - for those students who qualify)

Early Child Care Education/Child Development Associate *Pell Grant Only


Cosmetology Academy (2nd year) Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration (HVAC/R) Pharmacy Technician Precision/CNC Machine Technology

Welding APPLYING FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID Step 1 – Collect items that will help in completing the FAFSA application, for example: 2016 tax returns, bank statements, child support documentation, social security benefits statement, unemployment statement etc., students may need to include their parent’s financial information on the application. Step 2 – Visit https://fsaid.ed.gov and apply for an FSA ID username and password. The FSA ID replaces the Federal Student Aid PIN#. If parental information is required on the FAFSA, a parent must also apply for a FSA ID User Name and Password. Step 3 – Complete the 2018-2019 FAFSA application form on-line at https://fafsa.ed.gov/ The Polaris Career Center school code is: 016745 If the student is interested in applying for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan, follow the bulleted steps below. If student is not interested in applying for a loan, skip to Step 4.

[24]

Steps for applying for the Federal Direct Loan:

• Visit https://studentloans.gov • Log in using the student’s FSA ID user name and password • Complete and submit “Entrance Counseling” • Complete and submit the subsidized and unsubsidized “Master Promissory Note” (MPN)

Step 4 –Upon completion of the FAFSA (and loan requirements, if applicable), the student will immediately receive an email to the email address provided on the FAFSA stating that the FAFSA has been received by from the U.S. Department of Education. Within 3-5 days the student will receive another email with a link to the student’s SAR report (Student Aid Report). Step 5 – After the student has reviewed the SAR report, the student is responsible for contacting Ali Graham at 440-891-7668 or by email, [email protected] for next steps. Once the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator, Ali Graham, has indicated that the student’s financial aid has been finalized, the student may set up an appointment to register by emailing Kathryn Flanigan at [email protected] or calling 440-891-7653. Step 6 – Register for the program you would like to pursue. All Job & Career Training program students must register in person at the Polaris Career Center, Adult Education Office. Students must bring a high school/GED diploma or transcript and a photo ID. Some programs require additional documentation-please inquire upon making a registration appointment. We highly recommend visiting our website at http://www.polaris.edu/financial-aid for further information, a helpful FAFSA completion tip sheet, and dates of free FAFSA workshops. Please direct any questions to Ali Graham at [email protected] or 440-891-7668. Students who have not satisfied grade and attendance requirements, have not completed verification, and/or have not provided all required student loan documentation will not receive financial aid awards as listed per the policies in the Adult Education Student Policies & Financial Aid Consumer Handbook. AWARDING OF TITLE IV FUNDS (Pell and Direct Loans) All Title IV funds are awarded based on the information received from the FAFSA application. The student must complete the FAFSA application to be eligible for Title IV funds. The FAFSA application can be found at www.fafsa.ed.gov. After successful completion and submission of the FAFSA application, the student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) indicating the student’s Estimated Family Contribution (EFC). The Estimated Family Contribution is subtracted from the Cost of Attendance Budget (COA) to determine financial need.

Cost of Attendance (tuition/fees/transportation, personal, etc.)

Less Expected Family Contribution (what the student and he/she’s family are able to contribute toward their educational costs)

Equals Student’s Financial Need (Federal Pell grant/Federal Direct Loan/other resources the student may receive)

http://www.polaris.edu/financial-aid

[25]

The Concept of “Need Analysis” For all Title IV Programs (Pell Grant & Federal Direct Loans) a student enrolled at Polaris Career Center must:

Have financial need, except for some loan programs.

Be enrolled in a program that is at least 600 clock hours and 15 weeks in length.

Be attending at least 16 clock hours per week.

Meet Satisfactory Academic Progress standards set by the school.

Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.

Register with the Selective Service if male who is at least 18.

Not be incarcerated in a federal or state penal institution.

Have a high school diploma or GED certificate.

Have a valid Social Security Number.

Sign a statement on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) certifying that the student will use federal student aid only for educational purposes.

Sign a statement on the FAFSA certifying that the student is not in default on a federal student loan and does not owe money back on a federal student grant.

Not have been convicted under federal or state law of the sale of or possession of drugs while receiving financial aid. (Student may still be eligible depending on the number of offenses and when they occurred.)

Must provide information in order for school to obtain financial aid history.

May not have property that is subject to a judgment lien for a debt owed to the United States government.

Note: Students who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher are not eligible for Federal Pell grants. The Financial Aid Coordinator will not certify any student for receipt of Federal financial aid funds unless all eligibility criteria have been confirmed. CODE OF CONDUCT FOR POLARIS CAREER CENTER FINANCIAL AID PROFESSIONALS A Polaris Career Center Financial Aid professional is expected to maintain exemplary standards of professional conduct in all aspects of carrying out his/her responsibilities, specifically 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. In doing so, a Polaris Career Center financial aid professional should:

Refrain from taking any action that is for his/her personal benefit or could be perceived as a conflict of interest.

Be objective in making decisions, refrain from taking any action he/she believes is contrary to law, regulation or the best interest of the students and parents he/she serves.

Ensure that the information he/she provides is accurate, unbiased and does not reflect any preference arising from actual or potential personal gain.

Disclose to his/her institution any involvement, interest in, or potential conflict of interest with any entity with which the institution has a business relationship.

No amount of cash, gift, or benefits in excess of a De Minimis amount shall be accepted by a financial staff member from any financial aid applicant (or his/her family), or from any entity doing business with or seeking to do business with the institution (including service on advisory committees or boards beyond reimbursement for reasonable expenses directly associated with such service).

Financial aid staff members will not award aid to themselves or their immediate family members. Another staff member will be designated to perform this task, to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.

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CONFIRMATION OF CITIZENSHIP All students applying for federal financial aid must be able to confirm their citizenship status with the Social Security Administration. The confirmation process is applies when the student submits the FAFSA to the Federal processor. The Federal processor performs a match with the SSA to confirm the students citizenship status and SSA number. If SSA cannot confirm the student’s citizenship status, a comment will appear on the student’s Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR and the following will apply: US Citizen or National:

Must correct SSN, name or date of birth if these are in error and resubmit application

If data still does not match student must provide documentation to prove citizenship

Other documents could include birth certificate or Certification of Naturalization Eligible Noncitizen:

A-number is sent to DHS for primary verification

If status is not confirmed an automatic secondary confirmation will be performed by DHS

School will wait at leave five but no more than 15 days for the result of the secondary confirmation

If no secondary confirmation the school will begin paper confirmation on form G845

Form G845 is sent to DHS field office with documentation from student Students who are required to undergo secondary confirmation will be provided in writing:

Explanation of documentation submitted

Deadline for submitting 30 days

Notice that student may not receive aid for the payment period if deadline is missed

Statement that eligibility is not decided until student has a change to submit documentation Citizenship issues must be resolved prior to any aid being disbursed. COST OF ATTENDANCE

Program: Automotive Services

Months: 9

DEPENDENT STUDENT

Expenses Monthly Allowance Tuition & Fees $ 8,043.00

Books & Supplies $ 952.00

Personal Expenses $ 315.89 $ 2,843.01

Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 4,512.15

Transportation* $ 1,700.40

TOTAL $18,051

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 9,090.00

Transportation $ 1,700.40

TOTAL $22,628

Program: 1718 Cosmetology Academy YR 2 600 hours

Months: 12

DEPENDENT STUDENT

Expenses Monthly Allowance

Tuition & Fees** $ 6,336.50

Books & Supplies** $ 661.00


Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 6,016.20


TOTAL $18,897

**'1/2 2nd yr July-June

INDEPENDENT STUDENT


Tuition & Fees $ 6,336.50



Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 12,120.00


TOTAL $25,001

Program: 18-19 Cosmetology Academy YR 1 900 hours

Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT


Tuition & Fees** $ 6,531.50

Books & Supplies** $ 932.00


Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50


TOTAL $ 17,467

**'1/2 1st yr through June 30th, 2019

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00


TOTAL $ 22,554

Program: Dental Assisting Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50


TOTAL $19,999

INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00


TOTAL $25,085

Program: Early Child Care Education/Child Development Associate

Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50

Transportation* $ 850.20

TOTAL $16,018

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00

Transportation $ 850.20

TOTAL $21,104

Program: HVAC Day Months: 5

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 2,506.75

Transportation* $ 872.00

TOTAL $14,453

INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 5,050.00

Transportation $ 872.00

TOTAL $16,996

Program: HVAC Evening Months: 9

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 4,512.15


TOTAL $18,420

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 9,090.00


TOTAL $22,998

Program: Medical Assisting Day/Evening

Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50


TOTAL $19,868

INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00


TOTAL $24,954

Program: Medical Billing and Coding - Day

Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT



Books & Supplies $ 1,215.00


Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50


TOTAL $ 19,781

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT Expenses Monthly Allowance


Books & Supplies $ 1,215.00


Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00


TOTAL $ 24,867

Program: Police Academy Months: 9

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 4,512.15


TOTAL $ 16,367

INDEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 9,090.00


TOTAL $ 20,945

Program: Pharmacy Technician Evening

Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50


TOTAL $17,411

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT Expenses Monthly Allowance




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00


TOTAL $22,498

Program: Precision/CNC Machine Technology

Months: 10

DEPENDENT STUDENT





Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 5,013.50


TOTAL $18,911

INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 10,100.00


TOTAL $23,998

Program: Welding Months: 8

DEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 501.35 $ 4,010.80


TOTAL $16,938

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INDEPENDENT STUDENT




Room & Board $ 1,010.00 $ 8,080.00


TOTAL $21,007

DEPENDENCY STATUS A series of questions on the FAFSA will determine if a student is considered “independent” or “dependent” for financial aid purposes. Students are considered Independent if they meet any one of the following criteria:

Have reached the age of 24 prior to January 1st of the upcoming award year

Are enrolled in a graduate or professional educational program beyond a Bachelor’s Degree

Are married as of the date the FAFSA is submitted

Have children who receive more than half of their support from the student

Note: Having a child does not automatically make the student independent. The student must be providing over 50% of the child’s support.

Have dependents (other than your children or spouse) that live with you and receive more than half of their support from you-- now and through the end of the award year

Both parents are deceased, or they are an orphan, or Ward of the Court (or were a Ward of the Court until age 18)

Currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than training)

A Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces

An emancipated minor

An unaccompanied youth who is homeless or in danger of being homeless If the student does not meet any of the above criteria, then the student is considered a “Dependent Student” and his/her parents must complete part of the FAFSA and provide their financial information. It is not unusual for a student between the ages of 18 and 24 to move away from his/her parents and have a full-time job. This is a “life choice” and has no bearing on the student’s dependency status. DEPENDENCY OVERRIDE POLICY A Dependency Override may be granted for a student who has an unusual circumstance, which is beyond his/her control. A Dependency Override is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, not for a group of students with similar circumstances. To receive a Dependency Override the student must make a written request to the FA Coordinator and be able to provide the necessary documentation that is requested. The Financial aid Coordinator will determine what type of documentation is appropriate for the situation. The decision of the FA Coordinator is final.

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GAINFUL EMPLOYMENT DISCLOSURE POLICY The 2018 Gainful Employment Disclosure Template (GEDT) must be distributed to prospective students as a separate document before the student signs an enrollment agreement, completes registration, or makes any financial commitment to the institution. Polaris Career Center will provide this disclosure template by hand-delivering it (individually or as part of a group presentation) to prospective students; or by sending it to the primary email address used by the institution for communicating with that student, ensuring that the disclosure template is the only substantive content in the email. If the hand-delivery method is used, written confirmation of receipt must be obtained from the prospective student. Likewise, if email delivery is utilized, Polaris Career Center must receive electronic or other written acknowledgement that the email was received by the prospective student. If the institution receives a response that the email could not be delivered, the disclosure template must be sent using a different address or method of delivery. Polaris Career Center will not be able to award the student any financial aid, nor will he/she be permitted to register, until Polaris Career Center receives confirmation of receipt of the GEDT. DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS All financial aid funds are disbursed by the Polaris Career Center Treasurer’s Office and students are notified of all monies applied to their account. The first disbursement is approximately 30 days after the program begins and subsequent disbursements are made approximately within 10 days after the second payment period begins, providing the student meets satisfactory academic progress. The number of payment periods is based upon the number of hours in the program. (E.g., a 900-hour program has 2 payments periods of 450 hours each).

1. When the student is awarded financial aid, the student will receive an award letter from the Financial Aid Office. The award letter shows the anticipated amount of Title IV Aid and the estimated disbursement dates.

2. At the time of the student’s disbursement, the Financial Aid Office sends the student a Loan Disbursement Notification indicating the amount of aid and date the aid will be applied to the students account for tuition and other fees.

3. The funds will be credited to the student’s account for each disbursement once the school receives the funds. If it is determined that more funds have been provided than the student owes for tuition and other fees, the excess funds become available to the student within 14 days of the date a credit balance was created.

4. Credit balance checks will be mailed to the student’s last address on file.

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*All subject to change and are approximate

2018/2019 JOB & CAREER TRAINING PROGRAM

FA HOURS

START DATE

FIRST DISBURSEMENT*

SECOND DISBURSEMENT*

Automotive Service Technician 720 9/10/2018 OCTOBER FEBRUARY

Cosmetology Academy 1st year 900 9/17/2018 OCTOBER MARCH

Cosmetology Academy 2nd year 600 9/18/2017 AUGUST DECEMBER

Dental Assisting 900 9/4/2018 OCTOBER FEBRUARY

Early Child Care/CDA 700 9/11/2018 OCTOBER FEBRUARY

HVAC/R - Fall Day 600 9/4/2018 OCTOBER NOVEMBER

HVAC/R - Fall Evening 600 9/10/2018 OCTOBER JANUARY

HVAC/R - Spring Day 600 2/4/2019 MARCH APRIL

Medical Assisting - Fall Day 900 9/10/2018 OCTOBER FEBRUARY

Medical Assisting - Spring Evening 900 2/11/2019 MARCH JULY

Medical Billing & Coding - Fall Day 900 9/17/2018 OCTOBER FEBRUARY

Police Academy 765 8/30/2018 SEPTEMBER TBD

Pharmacy Technician - Fall Evening 600 9/17/2018 OCTOBER FEBRUARY

Precision/CNC Machine Technology 600 9/10/2018 OCTOBER JANUARY

Welding 600 9/10/2018 OCTOBER JANUARY

ENTRANCE & EXIT COUNSELING A borrower must complete Entrance and Exit Counseling to review rules, regulations, policies and procedures of the Federal Direct Loan Program. The counseling processes must be done online at https://studentloans.gov. Entrance counseling must be completed prior to the student’s first financial aid disbursement. Exit counseling is required after the program’s second disbursement date and prior to the student leaving school. If the student has Direct Loans, an Exit Interview packet will be mailed to the student’s last address on file within thirty (30) days of withdrawal date. This packet contains:

Letter to remind the student of their obligation to inform the lender that they are no longer in school.

‘Exit Counseling Guide for Federal Student Loan Borrowers’ brochure published by US Department of Education

Instructions for returning the form at the end of the brochure that they have completed the Exit Counseling to the school

Return envelope The student is instructed in the letter to read and complete the form at the end of the brochure and return it to the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator. A copy of the letter will be kept in the student’s financial aid file. Graduating students that have not completing Exit Counseling will not be issued a Career Portfolio/ Official Transcript until this requirement is completed.

https://studentloans.gov/

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FEDERAL RETURN OF TITLE IV FUNDS The law specifies how the school must determine the amount of Title IV program assistance that has been earned if a student withdraws from school. The Financial Aid Coordinator will perform a Return of Title IV Funds calculation when a federal student financial aid (Title IV) recipient withdraws from his/her program. This process ensures that the institution correctly calculates the amount of federal student financial aid earned by the student and returns any unearned funds back to the respective federal student financial aid program(s). In some cases, the student will be required to return unearned Title IV funds. In addition, the Return of Title IV process may result in the student owing the school for unpaid tuition and fees. The requirements for Title IV program funds when students withdraw are separate from the institutional refund policy. Therefore, the student may still owe a balance to the school to cover unpaid institutional charges. For students who notify the school they are withdrawing, the school uses the last date of attendance at the official date of determination for the Return of Title IV calculations. For students who withdraw without notifying the school, the school will use ten calendar day absences to determine that the student has unofficially withdrawn. The last day that the student ceased attending will then be used as the withdrawal date for calculating any return of Federal funds to the U. S. Department of Education. If a student has a Federal Direct Loan, it is his/her responsibility to inform the funding agency/lender that he/she is no longer in school. It is also the student's responsibility to arrange for completion of federal loan exit counseling. Note: Students who withdraw from the school will not receive transcripts unless all financial obligations are met. The portion of Title IV funds a student is allowed to retain is calculated on a percentage basis by dividing the total number of clock hours scheduled to be completed as of the withdrawal date in the period, by the total clock hours in the payment period. For example, if the student withdrew at 114 scheduled clock hours of a payment period that has 500 clock hours, the student has completed 22.8% of the period and therefore has earned 22.8% of federal student financial aid that was disbursed or could have been disbursed. That means that 77.2% of the aid that was disbursed or could have been disbursed remains unearned and must be returned to the federal student financial aid programs(s). A student earns 100% of federal financial aid once he or she has completed more than 60% of the scheduled clock hours in the payment period. If the amount of aid disbursed to the student is greater than the amount of aid earned by the student, the unearned portion must be returned to the federal student financial aid program(s). In returning unearned funds, the school is responsible for returning the portion of the excess equal to the lesser of: The institutional charges for the payment period multiplied by the unearned percentage of funds, or the entire amount of excess funds. A student may be required to return excess unearned Title IV funds. However, if the excess unearned funds consist of Title IV loans, then the student repays the loan(s) in accordance with the terms and conditions of the promissory note. If the excess unearned funds consist of a Title IV grant, the student is required to repay only the portion which exceeds 50 percent of the amount of grant received over $50.

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If the amount of aid disbursed to the student is less than the amount of aid earned by the student, a post-withdrawal disbursement may be available to assist the payment of any outstanding tuition and fee charges on the student’s account. The post-withdrawal disbursement will be made from Title IV grant funds before available Title IV loan funds. If part of the post-withdrawal disbursement is a grant, the institution may apply the grant funds to tuition and fees or disburse the grant funds directly to the student. If a student is eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement from Title IV loan funds, the student will be asked for his/her permission to either disburse the loan funds to the student’s account to reduce the balance owed to the institution, or disburse the excess loan funds directly to the student. The school has 30 days from the date it determines the student withdrew to offer the post-withdrawal disbursement of a loan to the student The student has 14 days from the date sends the notification to accept the post-withdrawal disbursement in writing. If the student accepts the post-withdrawal disbursement, the school will make payment as soon as possible, but no later than 180 days from the student’s withdrawal date. No portion of the post-withdrawal disbursement of loan funds will be disbursed if the student (or parent) does not respond to the notification. Once the unearned portion of the return of funds has been calculated, the Financial Aid Coordinator will return the aid to the appropriate federal student financial aid program(s) within 45 days of the date of determination that the student withdrew. The order of return is specified below. The unearned funds will be “charged back” to the student’s tuition account, and this may result in unpaid tuition and fees. The student will then be billed for any unpaid institutional charges that result from the return of funds to the Title IV programs, and will be responsible for full payment. A student will not be allowed to re-enter, register, or receive an official academic transcript until the outstanding balance has been paid in full. Unearned Title IV funds will be returned to the federal student aid programs in the following order: 1. Unsubsidized Direct Loan 2. Subsidized Direct Loan 3. Federal Pell grant Any student who has terminated his/her training without notifying the school and has an outstanding tuition amount due will be sent a letter explaining the outstanding tuition charges owed and the amount credited to their account from the financial aid program they were entitled to receive. Only the amount owed to the school from the Pell grant Program will be disbursed and applied to their outstanding balance. Students with post-withdrawal loan funds will have to give the school permission to disburse the funds. Returning funds: Return calculations are performed for any Title IV recipient who receives funds and does not

complete his/her training program. The following process is used for returning funds. 1) The Financial Aid Coordinator completes a Return to Title IV Form for Clock Hour Institutions. 2) A copy of the completed form is forwarded to the third party servicer so a downward

adjustment to the student’s original disbursement and award can be made. 3) The third party servicer transmits the downward adjustments to COD and provides the

Financial Aid Coordinator with an “Approved’ Return report. 4) The Financial Aid Coordinator provides the Treasurer’s Office with the “approved” report so

that the funds can be returned to the appropriate G5 program account.

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Time frame for returning an unclaimed Title IV credit balance: Polaris Career Center Treasurer’s Office will disburse the tuition credit balance by check. If the check is not cashed, Polaris Career Center must return the funds to the Department no later than 240 days after the date Polaris Career Center issued the check. FINANCIAL AID AWARD LETTER NOTIFICATION After the student’s Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR) is received by the Financial Aid Office, the Verification process has been completed (if applicable), and the student’s eligibility has been determined, financial aid will be determined based on the Payment Schedule for Full-Time Scheduled Awards as determined by the U.S. Department of Education. The student will receive an award letter from the Financial Aid Office. The award letter shows the anticipated amount of Title IV Aid and the estimated disbursement dates. The estimated award amounts on the Award Letter will be discussed with the student - any tuition balance remaining will be the student’s responsibility to pay. Students receiving Direct Loans will also receive notification from the U.S. Department of Education and from their assigned loan servicer. The U.S. Department of Education applies a processing fee to all loans before funds are sent to the school. VERIFICATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES A student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) by email after their FAFSA has been processed successfully. The SAR is a copy of the student’s processed FAFSA information. If there is an asterisk next to the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) number on the SAR, the student has been selected for verification by the U.S. Department of Education. The Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator will let the student know what documents are needed to complete the verification process via the email address provided on the FAFSA application. A verification worksheet will be provided to the student with a list of supporting documentation needed for return, the deadline for completing, and the student (and parent if the student is a dependent student) must complete and sign the document. Once the verification worksheet is signed and the documents requested are returned to the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator by the deadline, the accuracy of the data is verified and the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator corrects any discrepancies in FAA Access to CPS online. When the newest ISIR transaction is received by the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator, the student is notified via email of his/her aid award within one week. Along with a verification worksheet, a student may be required to complete a Household Resources Statement as part of the verification process. This worksheet is required for any student whose household income falls below the 100% poverty level for their household size. Once the Household Resources Statement is completed and returned to the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator by the deadline, the accuracy of the data is verified and the Financial Aid/Student Services Coordinator corrects any discrepancies in FAA Access to CPS online. Referral of Overpayments and Fraud Cases: If the school discovers during the verification process that a student received an overpayment of federal funds, the school will attempt to adjust subsequent financial aid disbursements. If this is not possible, the student will be required to repay the overpayment amount. Any applicant failing to repay the overpayment will be referred to the U.S. Department of Education for collection. Such applicants will be ineligible for future Federal Aid funds. If an applicant misreports information or alters documents for the purpose of increasing his/her aid eligibility or for fraudulently obtaining Federal funds, the applicant will be reported to the Office of Inspector General, U. S. Department of Education. Also, any person who intentionally makes false statements or misrepresentations on a federal aid application is violating the law and is subject to fine, imprisonment or both

[39]

When the verification process is complete, the student is notified via email and informed of next steps. VERIFICATION ITEMS:

Tracking Group 1 Tracking Group 4 Tracking Group 5

Adjusted Gross Income High School Completion Status

Adjusted Gross Income

Income Earned from Work (non-tax filers only)

Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose


U.S. Income Tax Paid U.S. Income Tax Paid

Untaxed Portions of IRA Dist’s


Untaxed Portions of Pensions


IRA Deductions & Payments


Tax Exempt Interest Income


Education Credits Education Credits

# of Household Members # of Household Members

# of HHM in College # of HHM in College

High School Completion Status


Note: Students must complete the required verification process prior to the Financial Aid Coordinator making any professional judgment decisions to adjust any values that are used to calculate the student’s EFC.

ACCEPTABLE VERIFICATION DOCUMENTATION

Tracking Group 1 IRS DRT

Verification WS

Additional Sources of Documentation

Adjusted Gross Income √ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)


√ ● Verification of Non-Filing from IRS (Independent Students Only) ● W-2 Forms

U.S. Income Tax Paid √ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)


√ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)





[40]



Education Credits √ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)

# of Household Members √

# of HHM in College √ Institutional Documentation (at discretion of Polaris Career Center)


Verification WS



√ ● High School Diploma; OR ● Official Final HS Transcript; OR ● Certificate or Transcript from GED, HiSET, or TASC; OR ● Secondary School Leaving Certificate (if diploma earned in foreign country and no HS Transcript is available)


√ ● Unexpired, govt-issued photo ID (DL, State ID, U.S. Passport)


Verification Worksheet


Adjusted Gross Income √ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)



U.S. Income Tax Paid √ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)









Education Credits √ Tax Return Transcript (if no DRT)

# of Household Members √

# of HHM in College √ Institutional Documentation (at discretion of Polaris Career Center)

[41]


√ ● High School Diploma; OR ● Certificate or Transcript from GED, HiSET, or TASC; OR ● Official Final HS Transcript; OR ● Secondary School Leaving Certificate (if diploma earned in foreign country and no HS Transcript is available)


√ ● Unexpired, govt-issued photo ID (DL, State ID, U.S. Passport)

IMPACT OF A DRUG CONVICTION ON FINANCIAL AID A federal or state drug conviction can disqualify a student for FSA funds. Polaris Career Center will review all information that is submitted by students on the FAFSA that confirm they have a drug conviction. Students are notified individually at the time their FAFSA application is reviewed of their ineligibility and given the information on how to regain eligibility. Convictions only count if they were for an offense that occurred during a period of enrollment for which the student was receiving financial aid. If a Polaris Career Center student is convicted of a drug offense during an academic year, they will be ineligible for future financial aid based on the guidelines outlined below. The chart below illustrates the period of ineligibility for financial aid, depending on whether the conviction was for sale or possession and whether the student had previous offenses. (A conviction for sale of drugs includes convictions for conspiring to sell drugs.)

OFFENSE POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL

SUBSTANCE SALE OF ILLEGAL

SUBSTANCE

First 1 year from date of conviction 2 years from date of conviction

Second 2 years from date of conviction Indefinitely

Third Indefinitely Indefinitely

A student regains eligibility the day after the period of ineligibility ends or with the successfully completion of a qualified drug rehabilitation program. Further drug convictions will make the student ineligible again. Students denied eligibility for an indefinite period can regain it only after successfully completing a rehabilitation program, or if a conviction is reversed, set aside, or removed from the student’s record so that fewer than two convictions for sale or three convictions for possession remain on the record. In such cases, the nature and dates of the remaining convictions will determine when the student regains eligibility. Students needing assistance with drug/substance abuse are encouraged to seek help. See the agency/referral list at the end of this handbook for drug/substance abuse and mental illness centers to help students. For more information, please contact the Adult Education Advisor/Counselor or Adult Education Office at (440) 891-7750.

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OTHER FINANCIAL AID SOURCES Other Financial Aid (Available to those who qualify) Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act provides funding for underemployed and dislocated workers. Please visit the Ohio Means Jobs website for more information. http://jfs.ohio.gov/owd/WIOA/index.stm Ohio Means Jobs Centers: Cuyahoga/Cleveland (Parma) p# 216-898-1366 Cuyahoga/Cleveland p# 216-664-4673 Lorain p# 440-324-5244 Trade Adjustment Assistance Act (TAA) The Trade Adjustment Assistance Act offers funding to certain individuals whose company has closed its facilities displacing the employees. Learn more at the Department of Job & Family Services website. http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouc/tradeadjustassist_faq.stm Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation BVR provides individuals with disabilities services and supports necessary to help them attain and maintain employment. If you have a disability, you may be eligible for training assistance. Contact your local office for further information. Learn more at the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities website. http://www.ood.ohio.gov/Core-Services/BVR/Regional-Offices Veterans Educational Assistance To use your benefits, the Financial Aid office will require an up to date, “Certificate of Eligibility” before registration can be initiated. If you have previously attended another school and have used your benefits, you will also need to submit a VA Form 22-1995 “Request for Change of Program or Place of Training” to the Regional Processing Office. Veteran students may also apply for federal financial aid. For more information on using Veteran benefits, call the Adult Education Office at 440.891.7600 and request a Veterans Instruction Booklet or more information can be found at polaris.edu/financial-aid Other: Scholarships or tuition reimbursements from employers, organizations, or foundations are may be accepted. Please contact the Adult Education Office to discuss other payment options before registration. If a student’s employer is paying any portion of the student’s tuition, Polaris must receive a letter on company stationary, signed by an authorized company representative before registering for a program. This letter must include the employee/student’s name, program name, student’s date of birth, and the amount of tuition the company has agreed to pay. Any unpaid balance is the responsibility of the student.

http://jfs.ohio.gov/owd/WIOA/index.stm

http://jfs.ohio.gov/ouc/tradeadjustassist_faq.stm

http://www.ood.ohio.gov/Core-Services/BVR/Regional-Offices


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PROFESSIONAL JUDGEMENT/SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) formula is the same for all applicants, and the student’s prior prior year income is used in the calculation. The Financial Aid Coordinator has the authority to use professional judgment on a case-by-case basis to adjust certain data elements for a student with special or unusual circumstances, such as employment layoff. If the student feels they have a special circumstance, they can contact the Financial Aid Coordinator to discuss the situation and find out what documentation is needed. In no circumstances can the Financial Aid Coordinator change the EFC or change the formula used by the U.S. Department of Education to calculate the EFC. Professional Judgment cannot be used in a situation that would be typical for a whole group of students. An example of this would be in a class where most of the students either cut back on hours or quit working altogether while going to school. The Financial Aid Coordinator would not decide to use current year income for the whole class just because of this. The following policy will be used in making professional judgment decisions:

The Financial Aid Coordinator must resolve any conflicting or inconsistent information on the ISIR before allowing a professional judgment. For example, if the student is flagged for verification, verification must be completed first. After reviewing all documentation, the Financial Aid Coordinator will make a decision to approve or deny the request and will notify the student of the outcome. The decision is final and cannot be appealed to the U.S. Department of Education. Professional judgment adjustments must be decided on an individual student basis only, not for a group of students. Circumstances must be unusual. In other words, they must fall outside the normal type of information required by the U.S. Dept. of Education (income, assets, dependency status, etc.) All decisions must be documented and signed by the financial aid coordinator. . The new EFC must be used to award all Title IV funds (Pell, Direct Loans) Unusual Circumstances Allowed Higher than normal medical and/or dental expenses: The income protection allowance in the EFC formula allows 11% of total income for medical/dental expenses. Any medical/dental expenses that exceed 11% of income will be allowed. Financial Aid Coordinator may reduce the income reported on the ISIR by the amount of expenses that exceed 11% of the student’s income. Required Documentation:

Copies of medical or dental bills

Cancelled checks

Request for Special Consideration Form completed by student and signed by the Financial Aid Coordinator.

Reprocessed ISIR Lower Income Lower income in current year than last year: Students who experience a loss or reduction in income between the base year (on the FAFSA) and the current year may be allowed to substitute current annual income. The Financial Aid Coordinator must determine the total annual income for the student from January 1st thru December 31st and reprocess the ISIR with projected income for the year.

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Required Documentation:

Copy of monthly unemployment benefits statement

Copy of recent pay stub

Other documents used to calculate the projected annual income

Request for Special Consideration Form completed by student and signed by the Financial Aid Coordinator

Recent Unemployment: Student recently lost his/her job. Same requirements as lower income in current year than last year. Loss of Unemployment Compensation: Student’s unemployment benefits have run out. Financial Aid Coordinator may calculate the total amount of income for the year including the unemployment benefits received and any projected additional income from January 1st to December 31st. Required Documentation: Copy of unemployment benefit statement Copy of letter indicating benefits have been exhausted. Loss of Untaxed Income or Benefits: Student’s untaxed income or other untaxed benefits has ceased--same requirements as loss of unemployment benefits. Separation or Divorce: The dependent student has already completed the FAFSA, but his/her parents have become separated/divorced or married independent student has become separated/divorced after completing the FAFSA. The financial aid coordinator may correct the income and asset information on the ISIR by including only the income for the parent which the student lived with the longest. For the independent student, the financial aid coordinator could allow the student to update information with only the student’s income and assets. If the dependent student’s parents are separated or divorced at the time of completing the FAFSA, the student should use only the income of the parent whom he/the student lived with longer during the twelve months prior to the date the application is completed, regardless of who claimed the student as an exemption. If an independent student is separated or divorced at the time of completing the FAFSA, the student should only report his/her income and asset information. Required Documentation:

Official divorce or separation documents

Signed statement by parent and/or independent student Death of Parent or Spouse: One of the student’s parents has died or the last surviving parent has died or the independent student’s spouse has died after the student has completed the FAFSA. If the student’s last surviving parent has died after the student applied, the student must update his/her dependency status and report income and assets as an independent student. If the independent student’s spouse has died, the student will be allowed to remove the spouse’s income and asset information. If both parents are deceased at the time the student completes the FAFSA, the student answers “Yes” to the question concerning deceased parents in Step 3 of the FAFSA application. If the independent student’s spouse died prior to the student completing the application, the student should not include income and asset information for the deceased spouse.

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Required Documentation:

Official death notice

Obituary

Signed Statement Number of Parents in College At least Half Time: Students may not include their parents that are attending college on the FAFSA. However, the financial aid coordinator may allow the student to update the number in college to include the parents if the student’s parent provides proof that they are attending college at least half time. Required Documentation

Copy of parent’s acceptance letter or registration receipt

Copy of parent’s schedule

Copy of parent’s official college transcript SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) POLICY The following academic and attendance policy is used to determine SAP for all students expected to receive Title IV financial aid and who are enrolled in full-time programs meeting 600 clock-hours or more as well as part-time programs. This policy must be given to all students who receive Title IV financial aid and it must also be made available upon request to all other enrolled or prospective students. Qualitative and Quantitative Measures of Progress Satisfactory academic progress is defined as a measure of both grades and attendance. Although other qualitative measures may be reviewed, including comparable assessments measured against a norm, attendance and grade point averages are determinative for Title IV financial aid purposes. Attendance A student is required to maintain a 90.0% attendance rate of the clock hours scheduled. Attendance is recorded daily by the instructor and the student is required to sign in and out on the attendance forms provided by the instructor. Students have access through Achademix, student software, to their attendance at any given time. Students are expected to report to class promptly at the designated start time. Tardiness will be recorded to the nearest ¼ hour. Grades Students must also maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of a “C” or 70.0%. Students must have achieved this GPA at each evaluation. Grades are recorded by the instructor from lab performance and tests as soon as they occur. Students have access through Achademix, student software, to their grades at any given time. If a student is enrolled in an educational program of more than two (2) academic years, the student must have a GPA of at least a “C” or its equivalent at the end of the second academic year, or have academic standing consistent with Polaris’ requirements for graduation.

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Grading Scale

GRADES NUMERICAL EQUIVELANT

CLASSIFICATION

A 90-100% Outstanding

B 80-89% Above Average

C 70-79% Satisfactory

D 60-69% Below Average

F Below 60% Unsatisfactory

I Incomplete

Official Evaluation and Review of Attendance and Grades Although attendance and grades are constantly monitored by the instructor and the Adult Education Assistant Director or designee, the review of the students’ progress (attendance and grades) occurs at the end of each payment period, as required by the U.S. Department of Education. The official evaluation for students in all programs is at the point when the student’s scheduled clock hours for the payment period have elapsed, regardless of whether the student attended them. For example, in a 900-hour program with 30 weeks, the official review date is the end of the program day in which 450 scheduled hours occurs and after 15 scheduled weeks is completed. During the evaluation, the reviewer will measure the student’s progress to ensure the student is maintaining pace to complete the program within the maximum timeframe permitted by this policy. Students will receive and sign the SAP Evaluation Form after the official review occurs. See Appendix A for Evaluation Periods If at the time of each SAP evaluation, a student is not meeting SAP or not successfully completing his or her educational program at the required pace, then the student is no longer eligible to receive assistance under Title IV and financial aid will be suspended until the student achieves SAP, wins an SAP appeal, obtains financial aid warning status or is otherwise eligible under this policy. A student whose aid is suspended may be responsible for paying all unpaid program charges out of pocket. Financial Aid Warning and Probation

Upon official review of SAP, if the student is meeting SAP, he or she will be eligible for Title IV financial aid.

If the student is not meeting SAP or is not successfully completing his or her educational program at the required pace at the time of the official review, the student is no longer eligible to receive his or her Title IV financial aid unless the student obtains financial aid “warning” or “probation” status and related procedures are followed.

The Adult Education Director or designee will notify any student in writing if the results of an evaluation impact his or her eligibility for Title IV funds.

Financial Aid Warning

A student will be in financial aid “warning” status if he or she fails to make SAP when evaluated at the end of a payment period. The Adult Education Director or designee will meet with the student to discuss the results of the official review of SAP and sign the SAP Evaluation Form.

A student on financial aid warning status may continue to receive Title IV financial aid assistance for one (1) payment period despite a determination that the student is not making SAP.

Financial aid warning status may be assigned without an appeal or other action by the student.

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Following a payment period during which a student was on financial aid warning, if the student is still not meeting SAP requirements, the Adult Education Director or designee may place the student on financial aid probation, if the student submits an appeal. the Adult Education Director or designee determines that the student should be able to meet SAP standards by the end of the subsequent payment period, and Adult Education Director or designee develops an academic plan for the student that, if followed, will ensure that the student is able to meet SAP standards by a specific point in time.

Financial Aid Probation

Financial aid probation is a status assigned to a student who fails to make SAP, who has appealed the determination, and has had eligibility reinstated.

A student on financial aid probation status may continue to receive Title IV financial aid assistance for one (1) payment period, unless otherwise permitted by this policy.

The Adult Education Director or designee will meet with the student to discuss the results of the official review of SAP and sign the SAP Evaluation Form.

Students seeking probation status will complete a SAP Appeal Form.

While a student is on financial aid probation, Polaris may require the student to fulfill specific terms and conditions, including, but not limited to, taking a reduced course load or enrolling in other specific courses.

At the end of one (1) payment period on financial aid probation, the student must meet the SAP standards or meet the requirements of the academic plan developed by the student and the Adult Education Director or designee to qualify for further Title IV funds.

If at any time, after all resources to achieve SAP are exhausted, it becomes mathematically impossible for the student to achieve the required attendance and grades by the end of the program, the student will lose financial aid eligibility and subject to termination. (See Official and Unofficial Withdraw policy)

Note: Students using Veteran Administration (VA) benefits, the effective withdrawal dates (as required by VA) will be retroactive to the date the student first failed to maintain the required attendance during the period. This action may create a student debt with the VA. Appeal Process If at the time of the evaluation period following a period of warning status, the student is not meeting SAP, financial aid is terminated unless the student submits an appeal, a student may appeal the determination by submitting the Adult Education SAP Appeal Form, along with appropriate supporting documentation, to the Adult Education Director or designee, within five (5) days of signing the SAP Evaluation Form. The student will have the opportunity on the form to describe circumstances that may have caused a failure to meet SAP, but at a minimum, an appealing student is required to provide detailed reasons forwhy the student failed to make SAP and what has changed in the student’s situation that will allow the student to demonstrate SAP at the next evaluation. Supporting documentation may include letters from licensed medical providers or statements from family members. Appeals will only be considered if based on the following: the death of a relative; an injury or illness of the student; or other special circumstances if deemed permissible by the Adult Education Director or designee. The Adult Education Director or designee will meet with the SAP Review Board within five (5) days of receiving the SAP Appeal Form to review the appeal and make a decision to either accept or deny the appeal. The student will be notified of the SAP Review Board’s decision in writing the next day. The decision is final.

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Reinstatement/Reestablishing Eligibility

If the Adult Education Director or designee and Review Board accept the Appeal, an intervention action plan will be designed for the student to reach SAP. The intervention action plan will be written on the SAP Appeal Form and the expected financial aid will be reinstated. At the end of the next payment period, the student must be meeting SAP standards or the requirements of the academic plan developed by the student and the Adult Education Director or designee to qualify to receive any subsequent disbursements.

If the Adult Education Director or designee and Review Board deny the Appeal, the student will be required to make arrangements for the student to self-pay or withdraw (see Withdrawal Policy).

Maximum Timeframe to Complete/Pace of Progression Students must be on pace to complete their program within the maximum timeframe, which is 111% of the published length of the educational program as measured by the cumulative number of clock hours the student is required to complete and expressed in calendar time. For example, if the published length of a program is 900 hours and 30 weeks, the maximum time frame would be 999 hours in 33 weeks. Students who miss more than 10% of the total hours of a program (i.e. 91 hours in a 900 hour program) must be able to make up those hours before the 111% time frame, or they become ineligible for aid and will be withdrawn from the program. Pace of progression is required to ensure that students complete the program within the 111% maximum time frame; thus, students are expected to maintain a cumulative 90.0% attendance rate and to complete a minimum of 90.0% of the possible clock hours in each payment period. Financial Aid recipients will be officially monitored at the end of each payment period to ensure that they are meeting the 90.0% required SAP attendance requirement. Percentages are determined by dividing the cumulative number of hours the student has successfully completed or attended by the cumulative clock hours the student was scheduled to complete. (Example: A program 405/450 = 90.0% 300/450 = 66.7%) See Appendix B for Maximum Time Frame Make Up Days Make up days/hours are available to students and are the student’s responsibility to be arranged with the instructor and the Adult Education Director or designee. OPOTA students must schedule individual make-up days with their instructor and there is a per hour cost. Remedial Courses and Transfer Credits Polaris Career Center does not grant credit for remedial courses or clock hours earned from another institution. Repetition/Withdrawals When a student withdraws and/or repeats a program, prior hours would be counted as attempted and/or earned and the new grade replaces the old grade. The hours in both programs are counted in the time frame and for attendance percentages. Students that withdraw would return in the same status as they were prior to withdrawing. Incomplete A grade of incomplete is not counted in the grade point average. If the student does not complete the work in the specified time, the incomplete will change to an F, which negatively impacts the grade point average.

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Appendix A

Appendix B

RETURNING STUDENTS/COURSE REPETITION Students who withdraw and plan to return must meet with the Adult Education Assistant Director. Once permission is granted, the student must have their financial aid reviewed by the Financial Aid Coordinator. Students who return within 180 days will be considered in the same payment period they were in when they left school. Students will have to complete the hours remaining in the payment period for which they were previously paid for before an additional payment of Title IV funds. Students returned after 180 days will be considered in a new payment period and will be eligible to receive additional funds as a new student up to the award year limit.

Program

Clock

Hours

Program

Instructional

weeks

Hours Weeks Hours Weeks Hours Weeks Hours Weeks Hours Weeks

Automotive Technician 720 39 360 19.5 720 39.0

Cosmetology Academy 1500 80 450 20.0 900 40.0 1200 60 1500 80

Dental Assisting 900 42 450 21.0 900 42.0

Early Childhood Care Education/CDA 700 39 350 19.5 700 39.0

HVAC Day 600 20 300 10.0 600 20.0

HVAC Evening 600 36 300.0 18.0 600 36.0

Medical Assisting Fall 946 39 473.0 19.5 473 39

Medical Assisting Spring 946 38 473.0 19.0 473 38

Medical Billing and Coding 900 38 450.0 19.0 900 38

Pharmacy Technician 600 40 300 20.0 600 40.0

Police Academy

Precision Machining CNC 600 40 300 20.0 600 40.0

Welding 600 32 300 16.0 600 32.0

Schedule TBD

Evaluation Periods

1 2 3 4

Program

clock

hours

Program

Weeks Hours Weeks

Automotive Technician 720 39 799 40

Cosmetology Academy 1500 80 1665 83

Dental Assisting 900 42 999 45

Early Childhood Care Education/CDA 700 39 777 97

HVAC Day 600 20 666 21

HVAC Evening 600 36 666 37

Medical Assisting 946 39 1050 44

Medical Billing and Coding 900 38 999 42

Pharmacy Technician 600 40 666 42

Police Academy

Precision Machining CNC 600 40 666 42

Welding 600 32 666 33

Maximum Timeframe

Schedule TBD

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TRANSFER STUDENTS For students who transfer into the school during the award year from another school, the school must determine the amount of Title IV eligibility the student has remaining. The school first determines the percent of the scheduled award the student used at the former school and then subtracts the amount from 100%. Then the school multiplies the remaining percentage by the scheduled award the student is eligible to receive at Polaris Career Center. This is the maximum remaining eligibility the student has for Pell funds at Polaris Career Center. Example: Student used 35% of a $3650 scheduled award at another school (100%-35%=65%.) The scheduled award at Polaris Career Center $5730. The maximum remaining Pell eligibility is $3724.50 ($5730 X 65%). STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY The philosophy of student financial aid at Polaris Career Center supports career preparation education of the student. The school’s objective is to help the student acquire general employability skills and the occupational specific skills necessary for initial job entry and continuing successful employment skills that will aid the student in achieving economic independence as a productive and contributing member of society. The primary purpose of student financial aid is to provide assistance to qualified students who would be unable to attend this school without such aid. Students are expected to take primary responsibility for the financing of their education. Therefore, any aid the student may receive should be regarded as supplemental to that which can be provided by the student. STUDENT ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA For all Title IV Programs (Pell grant and Federal Direct Loan) a student must:

Have financial need, except for Federal Unsubsidized

Be enrolled in an eligible course as a regular student. A regular student is someone who is enrolled or accepted for enrollment in an eligible institution for the purpose of obtaining a certificate offered by the school. The school documents a student’s enrollment in an eligible program at the time of admission, and has a system to notify the financial aid coordinator, if the student leaves the program. It also documents that an aid recipient is a regular student.

Be attending at least half-time for Federal Direct Loans (according to the FSA Handbook guidelines below.)

A student must be enrolled at least half time to receive aid from the Federal Direct Loan Program. The Federal Pell grant does not require half-time enrollment, * but the student’s enrollment status does affect the amount of Pell a student receives.

To be enrolled half time, a student must be taking at least half of the course load of a full-time student. The school defines a full-time workload, but it must meet the minimum standards in the FSA regulations. The definition of full time used for FSA purposes (below) can differ from the definition used for other purposes at your school, such as the definition used by the registrar’s office.

The definition of a full-time workload for a program must be used for all students in that program and must be the same for all FSA-related purposes, including loan deferments. The school cannot accommodate a student with a learning disability or other handicap by allowing him/her a full-time enrollment status lower than the minimum standard (unless he/she is enrolled in a program for students with intellectual disabilities).

The regulations specify a minimum standard for undergraduate students but not for graduate students. For undergraduates, full-time status must be at least: 12 semester hours or 12 quarter hours per academic term in an educational program using a semester, trimester, or quarter system; 24 semester hours or 36 quarter hours per academic year for an educational program using credit hours but not using a semester, trimester, or quarter

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system, or the prorated equivalent for a program of less than one academic year; 24 clock hours per week for an educational program using clock hours;

Make Satisfactory Academic Progress (See SAP section of handbook)

Be a U. S. citizen or eligible non-citizen: A student must be a citizen or eligible noncitizen to receive aid from the FSA programs. The general requirement for eligible noncitizens is that they be in the U.S. for other than a temporary purpose with the intention of becoming a citizen or lawful permanent resident, as evidenced by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The eligible statuses are: • A U.S. citizen or national; • A U.S. permanent resident; • Citizens of the Freely Associated States: the Federated States of Micronesia and the

Republics of Palau and the Marshall Islands; • Other eligible noncitizens.

U.S. PERMANENT RESIDENTS AND OTHER ELIGIBLE NONCITIZENS A lawful permanent resident (LPR) is a noncitizen who is legally permitted to live and work in the U.S. permanently. Other eligible noncitizens are:

Persons granted asylum in the United States are also authorized for indefinite employment, and they can apply for permanent residence after one year. Asylum status continues unless revoked by DHS or until permanent resident status is granted.

Persons paroled into the U.S. for at least one year must provide evidence (such as having filed a valid permanent resident application) from the Department Homeland Security that they are in the U.S. for other than a temporary purpose and intend to become a citizen or permanent resident.

Refugees are given indefinite employment authorization. Their status continues unless revoked by DHS or until lawful permanent resident status is granted, which refugees apply for after one year.

Victims of human trafficking

Battered immigrants-qualified aliens under the Violence Against Women Act.

Conditional entrants are refugees who entered the United States under the seventh preference category of P.L. 89-236 or whose status was adjusted to lawful permanent resident alien under that category. Note that the DHS stopped using this category on March 31, 1980.

Cuban-Haitian entrants as defined by Section 501(e) of the Refugee Education Assistance Act (REAA) of 1980.

Some non-eligible statuses are:

Family unity status. Such individuals have been granted relief from deportation under the Family Unity Program. Previously they were eligible for FSA funds.

Temporary residents are allowed to live and work in the U.S. under the Legalization or Special Agricultural Worker program. Previously they were eligible for FSA funds.

Persons with non-immigrant visas, who include those with work visas, students, visitors, and foreign government officials.

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Register with the Selective Service if male and at least 18 and born after 12/31/59. o Men aged 18–25 are required to register with the Selective Service System. This

requirement covers men residing in the United States who are U.S. citizens or noncitizens, except that a man who is in the U.S. as a lawful nonimmigrant is not required to register as long as he maintains that status (see the exceptions to the registration requirement under “Exemptions” below). Students who are required to register with the Selective Service must do so to be eligible for FSA funds, but parents who want to borrow a PLUS loan are not required to have registered.

o The student has several ways to register, which include using the application process. There is a question on the FAFSA that asks if the student wants Selective Service to register him. By answering “yes,” the student gives the Department of Education permission to submit his registration information to the Selective Service so that he may be registered. He can also ask to be registered by changing the answer to this question on the SAR to “yes” and submitting the correction (the answer to the question “Are you male?” must be yes too). The student may also register at the post office with a form available there, or he can register online at the Selective Service website (www.sss.gov). Men exempted from the requirement to register include:

males currently in the armed services and on active duty (this exception does not apply to members of the Reserve and National Guard who are not on active duty);

males who are not yet 18 at the time that they complete their applications (an update is not required during the year, even if a student turns 18 after completing the application);

males born before 1960;

citizens of the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, or the Federated States of Micronesia*;

noncitizens who first entered the U.S. after they turned 26;

noncitizens who entered the U.S. as lawful nonimmigrants on a valid visa and remained in the U.S. on the terms of that visa until after they turned 26.

Not be incarcerated in a federal or state penal institution (according to the FSA Handbook guidelines below.)

A student is considered to be incarcerated if she is serving a criminal sentence in a federal, state, or local penitentiary, prison, jail, reformatory, work farm, or similar correctional institution (whether it is operated by the government or a contractor). A student is not considered to be incarcerated if she is in a halfway house or home detention or is sentenced to serve only weekends. Incarcerated students are not eligible for FSA loans but are eligible for FSEOGs and FWS. They are also eligible for Pell grants if not incarcerated in a federal or state penal institution. See Chapter 7 of FSA Handbook for more information on this and on sex offenders who were incarcerated but are now subject to an involuntary civil commitment. The school may accept the student has written self-certification that he is no longer incarcerated.

Have a high school diploma, G.E.D. or complete a high school education in a home school setting that is treated as a home school or private school under state law. To receive FSA funds, a student must be qualified to study at the postsecondary level. A student qualifies if he/she:

o Has a high school diploma (this can be from a foreign school if it is equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma)

o Has the recognized equivalent* of a high school diploma, such as a general education development or GED certificate;

o Has completed homeschooling at the secondary level;

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o Has passed a Department-approved ability-to-benefit test; or o Has satisfactorily completed six credits of college work that are applicable to a

degree or certificate offered by the school.

A student may self-certify on the FAFSA that he has received a high school diploma or GED or that he has completed secondary school through homeschooling as defined by state law. The school requires a copy of the diploma or GED for admission.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES FOR FINANCIAL AID:

Student confirms to the best of his/her knowledge that all information submitted is complete and correct.

Student understands that he/she cannot use Federal financial assistance at two schools at the same time.

Student will inform the Financial Aid Office of changes in any information submitted for financial aid.

Financial aid may be cancelled if fraudulent information is revealed on any application for financial aid.

Financial aid is not automatically renewable and must be applied for each academic year.

Student is required to make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) in the program he/she is enrolled in and must meet the Polaris Career Center SAP policy requirements (cumulative 90%

attendance as well as maintaining a 70% or C average).

The Financial Aid Office may revise financial aid awards if estimated dollars are not received from the U.S. Department of Education, if errors have been made in the calculation of the awards, or if the funding levels change. Student understands the Financial Aid Award Letter is based on full-time enrollment in a 600+clock hour program.

Student confirms that he/she does not owe repayment on or is in default on a previous Direct Student Loan.

Student understands that he/she must pay all fees that they incur at Polaris Career Center regardless of whether he/she receives financial aid.

Student understands that he/she must comply with federal regulations by providing any and all information requested by the U.S. Department of Education and the Financial Aid Office.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF TITLE IV HEA LOANS (NSLDS) All Federal Direct Loans will be reported to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Student Loan Data System as part of the student’s financial aid history. This information will be accessible to authorized agencies, other post-secondary institutions, lenders, and Federal loan servicing agencies. Students may access their own accounts at www.nslds.ed.gov. UNUSUAL ENROLLMENT HISTORY POLICY The U.S. Department of Education added an Unusual Enrollment History (UEH) flag to a student’s ISIR that indicates that a student has an unusual enrollment history based on the receipt of Federal Pell Grant (Pell Grant) funds at several schools. The flag was added to address possible fraud and abuse in the Title IV student aid programs from students who attended school long enough to receive Federal funds without successful completion of academic credit. A UEH Flag value of ‘N’ indicates that there is no unusual enrollment history issue and, thus, no ‘C’ Code, no comments, and no action required by the institution.

http://www.nslds.ed.gov/

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A UEH Flag with a value of ‘2’ indicates an unusual enrollment history that requires review by the institution of the student’s enrollment records. An example of an enrollment pattern that generates a UEH Flag value of ‘2’ would be when the student received Pell Grant funds, Pell and Loans, or Loan only at three institutions over two award years. A UEH Flag with a value of ‘3’ indicates that the institution must review academic records for the student and, in some instances, must collect additional documentation from the student. An example of an enrollment pattern that generates a UEH Flag value of ‘3’ would be when the student received Pell Grant funds at three or more institutions in one award year. Resolving Unusual Enrollment History Flags If UEH Flag value is ‘N’: No action is necessary, as the student’s enrollment pattern does not appear to be unusual. UEH Flag value is ‘2’: The institution must review the student’s enrollment and financial aid records to determine if, during the past four award years, the student received a Pell Grant/Direct Loan at the institution that is performing the review. If so, no additional action is required unless the institution has reason to believe that the student is one who remains enrolled just long enough to collect student aid funds. If not, the institution must follow the guidance provided for a UEH Flag of ‘3’ For UEH Flag value of ‘3’: Using information from the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), the school will identify the institutions where the student received Pell Grant/Direct Loan funding over the past four award years. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the school with an academic transcript from each of the previous schools attended in the review. 6 Academic Credit Not Earned

If the student did not earn academic credit at a previously attended institution and, if applicable, at Polaris Career Center, documentation from the student must obtained explaining why the student failed to earn academic credit.

The school will determine whether the documentation supports (1) the reasons given by the student for the student’s failure to earn academic credit; and (2) that the student did not enroll only to receive credit balance funds

Below are sample reasons that may be accepted from a student as justification for the unusual enrollment history.

Personal reasons:

Illness, a family emergency, a change in where the student is living, and military obligations

Academic reasons:

The first enrollment was at an institution that presented unexpected academic challenges, or

The academic program did not meet the student’s needs, as determined by the student

NOTE: The school will request from the student third party documentation to support the student’s claim where appropriate.

Approval of Continued Eligibility

If a review of the student’s written statement and third-party documentation is reasonable and acceptable to the financial aid office and Adult Education Director, the student will be counselled on the Pell Grant duration of eligibility provisions (LEU) and allowed to receive additional Title IV funds.

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Denial of Continued Eligibility

The school will deny additional Title IV funds if no academic credit was earned at one or more institutions and no documentation or acceptable explanation was provided for each failure. Students will be allowed to appeal the denial by submitting a written appeal as to why the school should not deny the student additional Title IV funds based upon federal rules. Additional documentation may also be submitted at that time.

Regaining Aid Eligibility

If aid is denied, the student will be informed that eligibility for Title IV funds may be reestablished based upon successful completion of academic credit and meeting the satisfactory academic progress requirements for the first payment period of the student’s enrollment.

Pell Grant eligibility will begin with the payment period in which the student meets the eligibility requirements (after the first payment period of ineligibility). Direct Loan eligibility will be retroactive to the beginning of the student’s enrollment period. WITHDRAWAL POLICY

A withdrawal from a Job & Career Training program does not eliminate the student’s debt to Polaris Career Center. Students considering withdrawing from a Job & Career Training program should contact the Adult Education Counselor or Administrative Coordinator. Official Withdrawal – Withdrawal from a Job & Career Training Program is considered official: On the date notification is received from the student. If the student is removed for grades, attendance, disciplinary action, non-payment of financial obligation. Tuition fees will continue to accrue until notification is received from the student or if the student is removed for the above. A $100 cancellation fee will be charged for all Job & Career Training program withdrawals. Tuition refunds are prorated and based on the hours the program was held until withdrawal notification date. Books and supply fees are non-refundable. Materials and assessment fees are non-refundable if used prior to the withdrawal date. If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited on the credit card initially charged. In the event a student does not qualify, or is unable to fulfill the program requirements to participate in the externship portion of a program, the student will be ineligible to complete the program and, therefore, the withdrawal policy will be applied. Reasons for non-participation may include the following but are not limited to: violation of the Polaris Career Center Adult Education Student Code of Conduct due to behavior or discipline, attendance below 90%, grade below 70% or C, unsatisfactory drug screen or background check, or non-completion of program competencies/skills. Unofficial Withdrawal - Withdrawal from a Job & Career Training Program is considered unofficial when a student does not attend for 10 consecutive business days. Fees will continue to accrue until the 10th day at which time a student will be withdrawn automatically. A $100 cancellation fee will be charged for all Job & Career Training program withdrawals. Tuition refunds are prorated and based on the hours the program has been held until withdrawal date.

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Books and supply fees are non-refundable. Materials and assessment fees are non-refundable if used prior to the withdrawal date. If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited on the credit card initially charged. Students who officially withdraw or are unofficially withdrawn and have a balance due will be invoiced by Polaris Career Center and given until the end of the fiscal year (June 30th) to pay the balance. Students may contact the Adult Education office if a payment plan is needed. If after June 30th the balance is not paid-in-full, the debt will be reported to the Ohio Attorney General’s office for collection. Students must pick up books and supplies within 30 days of withdrawal. Contact the Adult Education office at (440) 891-7600 to make arrangements. REFUND POLICY

Refunds for Programs Canceled by the School

If tuition and fees are collected in advance of the start date of a program and the school cancels the program, the school will refund 100% of the tuition and fees collected.

If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days of the program start date in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited within 45 business days of the program planned start date on the credit card initially charged.

Refunds for Students Who Cancel On or Before the First Day of Class

If tuition and fees are collected in advance of the start date of classes and the student does not begin classes or withdraws on the first day of classes, the school will apply a $100 cancellation fee.

If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited within 45 business days on the credit card initially charged.

Refunds for Withdrawal After Class Commences

Please refer to the Withdrawal Policy for the definition of Official and Unofficial Withdrawals.

Tuition refunds are prorated and based on the hours the program was held until withdrawal date. Books and supply fees are non-refundable. Materials and assessment fees are non-refundable if used prior to the withdrawal date. The school will apply a $100 cancellation fee.


Any refund that totals $1 or less will remain on the student account as a credit balance. This does not apply to Financial Aid.

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SECTION III

School Policies

& General

Information

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SECTION III

SCHOOL POLICIES

&

GENERAL INFORMATION

ABILITY TO BENEFIT Polaris Career Center does not accept Ability to Benefit. Students are required to provide a copy of a high school diploma or GED Certificate.

ASPIRE: ESOL/GED Our small and friendly classes are led by certified instructors at Polaris Career Center and several convenient locations throughout Cuyahoga and Medina counties.

Free classes are available to help students Improve Reading, Math and English skills in preparation for taking a high school

equivalence exam, such as the GED, HiSet or TASC. Learn or improve English speaking and reading skills for citizenship, employment and

communication. Students are accepted throughout the program year. Increase academic skills before entering post-secondary education such as career

technical training or college. Improve computer skills or prepare for pre-employment assessments.

For further information on class schedules and registration, visit www.polaris.edu/Aspire or call 440.891.7647.

ACADEMIC/ATTENDANCE PROBATION POLICY & PROCEDURE A student must maintain a minimum attendance rate of 90% of the clock hours scheduled and a cumulative grade average or 70% (C) to complete a program and earn their career portfolio. Students failing to make 70% (C) or have a satisfactory attendance rate of 90% at the time of their program evaluation may be placed on academic/attendance probation. Students placed on academic probation are required to develop an approved student intervention plan, based on the Student Academic Probation form, with their Polaris instructor, student advisor, and the Director/Assistant Director. Upon further review of the student’s progress, if the student still does not meet satisfactory academic/attendance requirements or has not followed the student intervention plan, he/she may be removed from the program. The Polaris Career Center Withdrawal/Refund policy will apply. Polaris Career Center Job and Career Training programs do not accept excused absences. Students are allowed to miss 10% of the program time and still complete the program. Students are encouraged to be in attendance 100% of the time. Absences should only be used for illness, emergency situations or personal/family obligations. Students should always notify their instructor of an absence in advance or as soon as possible. When a student is late or tardy to class it will be recorded in a student’s attendance in fifteen minute increments.

http://www.polaris.edu/Aspire

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ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/PLAGIARISM POLICY Polaris Career Center does not tolerate any form of academic dishonesty. Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating, lying, plagiarism, falsifying records, completing work for another student, or any other infraction to avoid completing the program objectives or obtaining a grade or outcome other than the one earned by the student. Any academic dishonesty will be handled by Polaris staff and may result in program dismissal under the Polaris Career Center Adult Education Student Code of Conduct. ACHADEMIX STUDENT DATA MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Polaris Career Center Adult Education uses the Achademix student data management software to report grades and attendance. Students may also make payments and access their account through the student portal in Achademix. Students will receive directions through the email they provide during registration for accessing the student portal in Achademix. It is important to note that it is the student’s responsibility to monitor their program grade, attendance, and student tuition account. Questions regarding the student portal or Achademix can be answered in the Adult Education office. ACCEPTABLE USE OF STUDENT INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY POLICY

Board Policy Reference 7540.03 - Student Education Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Technology has fundamentally altered the ways in which information is accessed, communicated, and transferred in society. As a result, educators are continually adapting their means and methods of instruction, and the way they approach student learning, to incorporate the vast, diverse, and unique resources available through the Internet. The Board provides Education Technology so that students can acquire the skills and knowledge to learn effectively and live productively in a digital world. The Board of Education provides students with access to the Internet for educational purposes and utilizes online educational services to enhance the instruction delivered to its students. The District's Internet system does not serve as a public access service or a public forum, and the Board imposes reasonable restrictions on its use consistent with its limited educational purpose. This policy and its related administrative guidelines and the Student Code of Conduct govern students' use of the District's personal communication devices (that is, according to Policy 5136, computers, laptops, tablets, e-readers, cellular/mobile telephones, smartphones, and any other web-enabled device), network, and Internet connection and online educational services ("Education Technology" or "Ed-Tech"). This policy and its related administrative guidelines and the Student Code of Conduct also govern students' use of the their personal communication devices (that is, according to Policy 5136, computers, laptops, tablets, e-readers, cellular/mobile telephones, smartphones, and any other web-enabled device), when connected to the District's network, the District's Internet connection, and online educational services ("Education Technology" or "Ed-Tech"). The due process rights of all users will be respected in the event there is a suspicion of inappropriate use of the Education Technology. Users have no right or expectation to privacy when using the Ed-Tech (including, but not limited to, privacy in the content of their personal files, e-mails, and records of their online activity while on the network and Internet). First, and foremost, the Board may not be able to technologically limit access, through its Education Technology, to only those services and resources that have been authorized for the

https://www.boarddocs.com/ohjvstemps/search/policies/po5136.htm

https://www.boarddocs.com/ohjvstemps/search/policies/po5136.htm

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purpose of instruction, study and research related to the curriculum. Unlike in the past when educators and community members had the opportunity to review and screen materials to assess their appropriateness for supporting and enriching the curriculum according to adopted guidelines and reasonable selection criteria (taking into account the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students who would be exposed to them), access to the Internet, because it serves as a gateway to any publicly available file server in the world, opens classrooms and students to electronic information resources that may not have been screened by educators for use by students of various ages. Pursuant to Federal law, the Board has implemented technology protection measures, which protect against (e.g., filter or block) access to visual displays/depictions/materials that are obscene, constitute child pornography, and/or are harmful to minors, as defined by the Children's Internet Protection Act. At the discretion of the Board or the Superintendent, the technology protection measures may be configured to protect against access to other material considered inappropriate for students to access. The Board also utilizes software and/or hardware to monitor online activity of students to restrict access to child pornography and other material that is obscene, objectionable, inappropriate and/or harmful to minors. The technology protection measures may not be disabled at any time that students may be using the Education Technology, if such disabling will cease to protect against access to materials that are prohibited under the Children's Internet Protection Act. Any student who attempts to disable the technology protection measures will be subject to discipline. The Superintendent or Information Technology Coordinator may temporarily or permanently unblock access to websites or online educational services containing appropriate material, if access to such sites has been inappropriately blocked by the technology protection measures. The determination of whether material is appropriate or inappropriate shall be based on the content of the material and the intended use of the material, not on the protection actions of the technology protection measures. Parents are advised that a determined user may be able to gain access to services and/or resources on the Internet that the Board has not authorized for educational purposes. In fact, it is impossible to guarantee students will not gain access through the Internet to information and communications that they and/or their parents may find inappropriate, offensive, objectionable or controversial. Parents of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using the Internet. Pursuant to Federal law, students shall receive education about the following: A. safety and security while using e-mail, chat rooms, social media, and other forms of direct

electronic communications

B. the dangers inherent with the online disclosure of personally identifiable information

C. the consequences of unauthorized access (e.g., "hacking", "harvesting", "digital piracy", etc.), cyberbullying and other unlawful or inappropriate activities by students online, and

D. unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors Staff members shall provide instruction for their students regarding the appropriate use of technology and online safety and security as specified above. Furthermore, staff members will monitor the online activities of students while at school.

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Monitoring may include, but is not necessarily limited to, visual observations of online activities during class sessions; or use of specific monitoring tools to review browser history and network, server, and computer logs. Building Directors are responsible for providing training so that Internet users under their supervision are knowledgeable about this policy and its accompanying guidelines. The Board expects that staff members will provide guidance and instruction to students in the appropriate use of the Education Technology. Such training shall include, but not be limited to, education concerning appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response. All Internet users (and their parents if they are minors) are required to sign a written agreement to abide by the terms and conditions of this policy and its accompanying guidelines. Students may be assigned a school email account that they are required to utilize for all school-related electronic communications, including those to staff members and individuals and/or organizations outside the District with whom they are communicating for school-related projects and assignments. Further, as directed and authorized by their teachers, they shall use their school-assigned email account when signing-up/registering for access to various online educational services, including mobile applications/apps that will be utilized by the student for educational purposes. Students and staff members are responsible for good behavior on the Board's computers/network and the Internet just as they are in classrooms, school hallways, and other school premises and school sponsored events. Communications on the Internet are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communication apply. The Board does not sanction any use of the Education Technology that is not authorized by or conducted strictly in compliance with this policy and its accompanying guidelines. Students shall not access social media for personal use from the District's network, but shall be permitted to access social media for educational use in accordance with their teacher's approved plan for such use. Users who disregard this policy and its accompanying guidelines may have their use privileges suspended or revoked, and disciplinary action taken against them. Users of the Board's Education Technology are personally responsible and liable, both civilly and criminally, for uses of the Ed-Tech not authorized by this Board policy and its accompanying guidelines. The Board designates the Superintendent and his/her designee(s) as the administrators responsible for initiating, implementing, and enforcing this policy and its accompanying guidelines as they apply to students' use of the District's Education Technology. © Neola 2014

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ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENT POLICY Admission into a Job & Career Training program is on a first-come, first-served basis. When registering, a prospective student must show proof of high school completion with their diploma or official transcript from an accredited high school recognized by the United States Department of Education or GED certificate or its equivalent. If the student’s diploma is from a foreign country, the student must have the diploma translated into English by an authorized, certifying official at an official translation service to determine if it is equivalent to a U.S. diploma. Evaluators charge for this service and it can take several weeks. Please visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services at www.naces.org to view a list of evaluators. Also, the student must show proof of their valid United States of America government-issued identification such as a driver’s licenses or state ID. In addition, the following are requirements for specific programs:

Cosmetology Academy– proof of state of Ohio residency documents, such as utility bills, current housing lease agreement or property tax bills

Police Academy – Applicants must be 21-years of age by the completion of the program, have a valid driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance, complete a background check with satisfactory results (no felonies or serious misdemeanors), complete a satisfactory drug screening, complete a physical exam with satisfactory results, and complete a physical agility test (15% of the state required standards).

Admission policies are non-discriminatory to any eligible adult as stated in Polaris Career Center Board Policy which can be found on the Polaris website, in the Adult Education catalog, brochures, student handbook, and faculty handbook. The policy states, “In accordance with Title VI of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX of the Education Amendments, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Polaris Joint Vocational School District’s policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, ancestry, economic status, military status, or age in its educational programs, activities, services or employment policies. The Board does not discriminate on the basis of legally acquired genetic information.” ATTENDANCE POLICY Regular and punctual attendance is the greatest single factor in student success in a Job and Career Training Program. All students are expected to be in attendance at Polaris Career Center on all scheduled days and times of the program. Students are required to sign in and out daily indicating exact arrival, dismissal and break times they are in attendance. Each programs may have specific attendance requirements for successful completion. A student who attends a Job and Career Training program minimum of 90% (this includes externships as applicable) of the course and successfully completes the required work will receive a Certificate of Completion and Transcript at the end of the program. Polaris Career Center Job and Career Training programs do not count excused absences. Students are encouraged to be in attendance 100% of the time however, students are allowed to miss 10% of the program time and still complete the program. Absences should only be used for such instances as illness, emergency situations or personal or family obligations. Students should always notify their instructor of an absence in advance or as soon as possible. Students must contact their instructor to discuss any work that was missed.

http://www.naces.org/

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BACKGROUND CHECK POLICY Certain courses will require satisfactory completion of a criminal background check in order for a student to be eligible to participate in the course and/or externship. In the event the student does not qualify to participate in the externship, the Polaris Career Center withdrawal policy applies.

If requested, it is the student’s responsibility to provide potential employers or an externship site with their background check information. Externship sites and employers may require additional background check information. Students must use the Polaris Career Center designated vendor to obtain the required background check (at the student’s expense).

Students need to be aware that a background check may affect potential externship and/or employment opportunities.

In the event a student does not qualify, or is unable to fulfill the program requirements to participate in the externship portion of a program, the student will be ineligible to complete the program and, therefore, the withdrawal policy will be applied. BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Board of Education has established policies and procedures that pertain to students, staff, and school operations. These policies and procedures are available for review on the Polaris Career Center website, www.polaris.edu. BOOKS AND SUPPLIES POLICY The cost for books and supplies are included in the student’s total program cost. However, if a student desires to purchase his/her own books and supplies, the student must notify the financial aid office two weeks prior to the start of the program. The amount owed for books and supplies will then be deducted from the student’s total program cost amount. If it has been determined that the student will have funds remaining from their financial aid eligibility (Pell Grant or Federal loans) resulting in a credit balance, the school will issue the student the lesser of the credit balance or the amount needed to purchase books and supplies within the first week of classes. This policy assumes there are no financial aid eligibility issues (verification, unresolved C codes, delayed loan disbursement, conflicting information etc.). Students who desire to purchase their own books and supplies must come to school adequately prepared to begin their training program with all the required program-approved books (must be correct ISBNs) and supplies. If the student chooses to purchase his/her books and supplies, he/she must purchase all required program approved books and supplies listed on the program cost acknowledgement form. The student’s decision to opt-in or opt-out is final. CARE OF THE BUILDING AND GROUNDS All Adult Education students will be responsible for the cleanliness of the classrooms, lab areas, parking lot, buildings and grounds after use. Each program instructor will designate clean-up procedures and all Adult Education students will be required to participate in clean-up. Clean-up time must be scheduled within the allotted class period.

Equipment used during the class session is to be cleaned and left in the same or better condition and placed back where it was found at the start of the period. If any furniture is rearranged, it should be returned to its original position.

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CAREER PORTFOLIO FOR PROGRAM COMPLETERS Students who successfully complete a program and meet all program requirements will receive a Career Portfolio which includes documentation of official transcripts, a resume, grades, attendance and certifications, if achieved.

Polaris Career Center students have the opportunity to earn a Certificate of Completion and program transcript upon successful completion of their program.

A Certificate of Completion will be awarded to each student who maintains satisfactory academic progress of 70% (C average) in addition to a minimum of 90% attendance.

Students eligible to receive the Certificate of Completion for Job & Career Training Programs must:

Complete their Job & Career Training Program and externship/work-based activity (where

applicable). Achieve satisfactory grades and skill development in their program area.

Maintain attendance of 90% of the total program hours over the length of the program.

Complete their financial obligations regarding financial aid, tuition and fees.

Police Academy students must pass the physical assessment portion of the OPOTC certification exam to complete the program.

CELL/SMART PHONE USAGE POLICY Cell/Smart phones must be turned off or on silent during instructional time. Texting is not permitted during class. In case of an emergency please contact the Polaris Career Center Welcome Center at 440-891-7600. CHANGE OF STUDENT CONTACT INFORMATION Students can change their contact information via the following methods:

Achademix Portal

Student Contact Change Form (https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-

Center/Adult%20Ed/Student-Contact-Change-Form.pdf)

Call or email the Adult Education department *Please note, a change in your original email account could result in loss of account access, as your user name is also your email. Please contact our office at (440) 891-7600 for assistance. COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS Students must meet the following requirements to complete their program and earn their career portfolio.

90% attendance rate at program end date

70% or C average at program end date

Complete externship / work-based activity (if applicable)

Payment of all outstanding obligations to the school CONSUMER DISCLOSURE Polaris Career Center is required by Federal Law to disclose certain information to our prospective and enrolled students:

Available Financial Assistance

Campus Security Report – Clery Act

Completion/Graduation Rates

Drug/Alcohol Abuse Prevention

Family Education Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA)

How to Obtain Additional Information

https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Adult%20Ed/Student-Contact-Change-Form.pdf

https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Adult%20Ed/Student-Contact-Change-Form.pdf

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Institutional Information

Job Placement Information/Gainful Employment

Retention Rate All of the above information and more can be found on the Polaris Career Center website. COPYRIGHT PROTECTION Unauthorized copying, redistribution or republication of copyrighted or licensed materials is prohibited. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action and may also be referred to the appropriate legal authorities and/or other legal action may be pursued.

Polaris Career Center shall have the exclusive and complete control of, title to, and rights of copyright to all manuscripts, lectures, video tapes, recording or other instructional tools in any way connected with the service(s) offered by Polaris Career Center. Students may not video or audio tape training services without prior approval from the instructor. CRIME AWARENESS AND CAMPUS SECURITY ACT All students and staff members are encouraged to report any and all suspicious behavior, destructive actions, or other emergencies immediately to the on-duty security guard or any

faculty/staff member The following information is provided and updated annually as directed by the U.S. Department of Education through Public Law 101-542 – The Criminal Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990 in accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). The link to the Polaris Career Center Annual Security Report which contains crime statistics regarding Polaris Career Center and other security information is as follows: https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Clery-Act-ANNUAL-SECURITY-REPORT-2016.pdf. A paper copy of the annual security report is available upon request in the Adult Education office.

No person shall knowingly possess, have under the person’s control, convey or attempt to convey a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance into a school safety zone in pursuant to Ohio Revised Code.

Crime Statistics for Calendar Years: 2014, 2015, 2016

Reported Crime- On Polaris Campus 2014 2015 2016

Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0

Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0

Simple Assault 0 0 0

Forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0

Rape 0 0 0

Fondling 0 0 0

Non-Forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0

Incest 0 0 0

Statutory Rape 0 0 0

Robbery 0 0 0

Aggravated Assault 0 0 0

Burglary 0 0 0

Motor Vehicle Theft 0 0 0

https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Clery-Act-ANNUAL-SECURITY-REPORT-2016.pdf

https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Clery-Act-ANNUAL-SECURITY-REPORT-2016.pdf

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Arson 0 0 0

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) 0 0 0

Domestice Violence 0 0 0

Dating Violence 0 0 0

Stalking 0 0 0

Arrests On Campus

Weapons- carrying, possessing, etc. 0 0 0

Drug Abuse Violations 1 1 3

Liquor Law Violations 0 0 0

Reported Crime- Off Campus Public Property 2014 2015 2016

Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0

Negligent Manslaughter 0 0 0

Simple Assault 0 0 0

Forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0

Rape 0 0 0

Fondling 0 0 0

Non-Forcible Sex Offenses 0 0 0

Incest 0 0 0

Statutory Rape 0 0 0

Robbery 0 0 0

Aggravated Assault 0 0 0

Burglary 0 0 0

Motor Vehicle Theft 0 0 0

Arson 0 0 0

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) 0 0 0

Domestice Violence 0 0 0

Dating Violence 0 0 0

Stalking 0 0 0

Arrests- Public Property

Weapons- carrying, possessing, etc. 0 0 0

Drug Abuse Violations 0 0 0

Liquor Law Violations 0 0 0

DRESS AND GROOMING GUIDELINES A dress code or a uniform may be required for appearance, safety factors, and as a necessity to protect clothing. Clothing that is excessively tight, short, or revealing is inappropriate. This includes extremely short shorts and skirts, tank tops, or clothing that reveals the midriff. Students must wear shoes. Clothing or attire that can be construed as gang-related is not permitted.

Any apparel or accessory that graphically or symbolically is vulgar, offensive, obscene or libelous or promotes sex, violence, tobacco, drugs, or alcohol is unacceptable and will not be permitted. In addition, chains, spikes, or any other item that may be construed by a school official as a safety hazard will not be permitted.

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Program uniforms and safety glasses need to be worn as determined by the program instructor or administrator.

The District’s dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, instills discipline, prevents disruptions, avoids safety hazards, promotes respect, and is similar to those enforced in most working environments.

Polaris Career Center administration reserves the right to determine the appropriateness of the attire and take necessary action under the Adult Education Student Code of Conduct. DRIVING and PARKING Daytime Students – Daytime students will be given a parking permit application to complete for their vehicle. The parking permit must be visible at all times. All daytime students must park in the (south) student parking lot. Parking in the front parking lot is prohibited.

Each driver must adhere strictly to the following:

All drivers are directed to park in designated areas. Please park in those areas obviously provided for parking.

Parking on the grass areas, fire lanes, no parking zones, bullpen area, or handicapped zones is prohibited.

The driveway surrounding the building is a fire lane and cars are prohibited from parking in this area.

Parking spaces are on a first come basis after 3:30 PM.

Any student driving a vehicle while on school property must obey the posted 10 M.P.H. speed, and drive with the utmost caution at all times.

Polaris Career Center assumes no liability for damage or loss while vehicles are parked on school property. Accidents or losses should be reported to the security guard immediately.

Overnight parking is not permitted at Polaris Career Center. DRUG PREVENTION PROGRAM

Drug and Alcohol (Drug-Free School and Community Act of 1989) https://www.boarddocs.com/oh/polaris/Board.nsf/Public# Polaris Career Center is unequivocally opposed to the misuse of lawful drugs and the possession and use of unlawful drugs. Pursuant to the requirements of the Drug-Free School and Community Act Amendments of 1989 (PL 101-226) Polaris Career Center has adopted and implemented drug and alcohol policies and programs designed to prevent drug and alcohol problems within the campus setting. The policies and programs are designed to identify problems at the earliest stage, motivate the affected individuals to seek help and to direct the individual toward the best assistance available. Student and Employee Compliance with Polaris Career Center Drug and Alcohol Policies. All Polaris Career Center students and employees are expected to abide by the terms of the school’s policies. A student and/or employee found to be in possession or illegally using drugs and/or alcohol may be subject to appropriate sanctions. Such sanctions may include: referral for prosecution, termination of employment, and/or reprimand, probation, suspension or expulsion.

https://www.boarddocs.com/oh/polaris/Board.nsf/Public

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A disciplinary sanction may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitant program. Students and employees are guaranteed due process. Standards of Conduct Polaris Career Center is committed to maintaining a campus free of illegal drugs or the unlawful use of alcohol or illicit drugs. It is the policy of Polaris Career Center not to permit the possession, consumption, and sale of alcoholic beverages on campus. In accordance with the laws of the State of Ohio, the regulations of the Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Contract (DOCL) and the polices of Polaris Career Center. Polaris Career Center has the responsibility of upholding federal, state and local laws regarding the use of drugs and alcohol. Students who choose to possess or use unlawful drugs or misuse lawful drugs and alcohol subject themselves to both arrest and prosecution and Polaris Career Center action. Polaris Career Center Sanctions In cases of civil or criminal action against a Polaris Career Center student, Polaris does reserve the right, for education purposes, to review any action taken by authorities. Polaris Career Center may at its discretion, introduce further sanctions if the student’s conduct has interfered with the Polaris Career Center exercise of its educational objectives or responsibilities to its members. Polaris Career Center Student Code of Conduct expressly prohibits the manufacture, distribution, sale, offer for sale or possession of drugs or narcotics. Violation of this standard constitutes a “code A” offense and the student will be subject to maximum sanction of disciplinary expulsion or any sanction not less than a reprimand. Being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol does not diminish or excuse the violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct also prohibits the possession and/or use of marijuana, and the unauthorized use of alcohol. Violation of these standards constitutes a “code B” offense and the student will be subject to a maximum sanction of disciplinary probation or any sanction not less than a reprimand. Being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol does not diminish or excuse a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. A student admitted to the Polaris Career Center accepts the responsibility to conform to all Polaris Career Center rules and regulations. Proven failure to meet this obligation will justify appropriate disciplinary sanctions, including Local, State and Federal Laws and Sanctions. Applicable legal sanctions under local, state or federal law for the unlawful use, procession or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol are set forth in the referenced laws and are available upon request from the Adult Education Director. In addition, students who currently receive federal financial aid are advised that criminal conviction for a drug-related offense may lead to the loss of their financial aid funds. Local: State: Ohio Revised Code Chapters 2925 – Drug Offenses 3719 – Controlled Substances 4301 – Liquor Control Laws Federal: Federal (Harrison) Narcotic Act Federal Narcotic Drugs

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Import and Export Act Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act Federal Alcohol Administration These sanctions can include probation, fines, driver’s license suspension, and/or incarceration. Future revision, amendments, or additions to these or other applicable codes are incorporated into this policy by this reference. Also, it is a requirement that all employees will abide by the terms in this policy and notify the employer in writing if he or she is convicted for a violation of a criminal drug statute occurring in the workplace no more than five calendar days after such conviction. Health Risks There are serious health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol. Some but not all of the risks are listed below: a. Alcohol and other depressants: Consumption of alcohol and other depressants causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair judgment and coordination required for safety and care. Use of alcohol and depressants can lead to addiction and accidents as a result of impaired ability and judgment. b. Marijuana: Use of marijuana can lead to panic reactions, impaired short-term memory, increased risk of lung cancer and emphysema, particularly in cigarette smokers, and impairment of driving ability. c. Cocaine: Addiction, heart attack, seizures, lung damage, severe depression, paranoia, and psychosis. Similar risks are associated with other stimulants, such as speed and uppers. d. Hallucinogens: Unpredictable behavior, emotion instability, violent behavior, and organic brain damage in heavy users, convulsions, and coma. e. Narcotics (Heroin, Morphine, Codeine, etc.): Addiction, accidental overdose, the risk of hepatitis and AIDS from contaminated needles. f. Inhalants (Gas, aerosols, glue, etc.): Loss of consciousness, suffocation, damage to the brain and central nervous system, sudden death, nausea and vomiting, nosebleeds and impaired judgment. Substance Abuse Resources Resource information (booklets, brochures, pamphlets, etc.) regarding health and safety concerns from substance abuse, and information, regarding the availability of, and/or referral to, community-based substance abuse counseling and rehabilitation services are available through a variety of Polaris Career Center and community based services including: There are drug and alcohol counseling, treatment and rehabilitation facilities available in our area where you can seek advice and treatment. The yellow pages of the local telephone book and the interarea are an excellent source. Look under the heading “Drug Abuse and Addiction-Information and Treatment.” Or the web address: http://www.ohiodrugrehabilitation.com/. The Ohio Office of the Bureau of Drug Abuse in Columbus is the State Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment coordinator at (614) 466-7893. There are several Drug Abuse and Alcohol Treatment and Prevention Programs in the area in which Polaris Career Center participates. See the Adult Education Department for specifics. There are national organizations on can contact for help. The Alcoholism and Drug Abuse hotline is open 24 hours, 1-800-252-6465. The Cocaine Hotline, 1-800-444-9999 is open 24 hours a day. The National Institute on Drug Abuse Hotline is available 8:00am/2:00am, Monday through Friday and 11:00am/2:00am on weekends, 1-800-662-4357. Contact any of the resources listed above for referral. Your anonymity will be respected. Review 1. In accordance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, this policy will be distributed to all students and employees on an annual basis.

http://www.ohiodrugrehabilitation.com/

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2. During each even-numbered year, a biennial review of the comprehensive drug and alcohol abuse prevention program will be conducted to determine its effectiveness, make improvements where necessary, and ensure that it is consistently enforced.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES (CRISIS RESPONSE PLAN) Emergency procedures and evacuation routes are posted in each classroom. Regularly scheduled, unannounced fire drills, tornado drills, and lockdown drills are conducted throughout the school year. A Board of Education policy is in place for emergency situations for students and employees. The Polaris Career Center Crisis Response Plan is available at: polaris.edu/adult-education/general-information/ In case of an emergency please dial x7777 or contact the Welcome Center. EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY, DISCRIMINATION, AND HARASSMENT POLICY In accordance with Title VI of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX of the Education Amendments, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Polaris Joint Vocational School District’s policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, ancestry, economic status, military status, or age in its educational programs, activities, services or employment policies.

The Board does not discriminate on the basis of legally acquired genetic information.

If you are having a problem or have questions or concerns regarding compliance with Title IX or Section 504, contact:

Assistant Superintendent Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator 440.891.7643 Room 225

EVALUATION OF PROGRAM Each student will have the opportunity to complete a Student Satisfaction Survey, which is reviewed by school administration. EXCUSED ABSENCE POLICY Polaris Career Center Job and Career Training students must attend their program at a 90% rate in order to successfully complete the program. In the event that a student must be absent for unforeseen emergencies, funerals, jury duty, illness, etc., the student is allowed to miss no more than 10% of the program and still successfully complete. Any student who has unexcused absences that exceed 10% of a financial aid payment period, will have their financial aid disbursement(s) delayed until the hours exceeding 10% have been completed. EXTERNSHIP ACTIVITY Externship/work-based activities are designed to ensure that students experience a real world environment in their field of study utilizing the knowledge and skills attained in the program. This gives the students the opportunity to relate theory to practical application in a professional setting, demonstrate competencies, work habits and attitudes needed for employment in the profession. In addition, skills related to specific practices and procedures are enhanced by practical application along with employer feedback. A minimum of 90% attendance with a 70% or C average or better is required for students to participate in the externship/work-based opportunity. Student account must be current in order to participate in the externship/work-based activity.

http://www.polaris.edu/adult-education/general-information/

http://www.polaris.edu/adult-education/general-information/

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Program-specific externship/work-based activity information is provided by the program instructor.

The program instructor will be responsible for assigning the student to the externship site. The student will be assigned one externship opportunity as available.

The externship/work-based activity is a learning experience, not a paid working experience.

Students are not to replace any employee or assume anyone’s job responsibilities.

The externship/work-based site has the right to make scheduling adjustments or reassignments based upon staffing and departmental needs.

Students will be under the supervision of their program instructor and the site supervisor. The student will be expected to demonstrate professional behavior at all times.

The externship is a requirement for the completion of the program; therefore, the student cannot refuse the assignment and/or its location.

Not all programs include an externship/work-based activity.

Polaris Career Center code of conduct is still in effect. FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education.

FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records. These rights transfer to the student when he or she reaches the age of 18 or attends a school beyond the high school level. Students to whom the rights have transferred are "eligible students."

Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student's education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of records unless, for reasons such as great distance, it is impossible for parents or eligible students to review the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies.

Parents or eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records which they believe to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested information.

Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student in order to release any information from a student's education record. However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34 CFR § 99.31):

o School officials with legitimate educational interest; o Other schools to which a student is transferring; o Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes; o Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student; o Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school; o Accrediting organizations; o To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena; o Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies; and o State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State

law.

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Schools may disclose, without consent, "directory" information such as a student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a PTA bulletin, student handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.

For additional information, you may call 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327) (voice). Individuals who use TDD may use the Federal Relay Service.

Or you may contact us at the following address:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-8520

FOOD Food service is available in the Polaris Career Center Old Oak Cafe (first floor, Room 100) from 7 AM – 8 PM Monday through Thursday, and 7 AM – 2 PM on Friday. Beverage vending machines are located in the back hallway near the elevator. All food and beverage items are to be consumed in the Commons or the Cafe. No food or beverages are to be consumed in the classroom/lab. FULL SERVICE CENTER DESIGNATION Polaris Career Center is one of the Ohio Department of Education Full Service Centers in the state that works to train and retrain Ohio's workforce. Featured Services include:

ASPIRE

GED (General Educational Development) Test Preparation

Career Assessment

Financial Aid

Job Search Assistance

Employability and Job Readiness Training

Career Counseling GRADE POLICY A student’s academic progress will be measured according to the following scale: 90 - 100% = A = Outstanding 80 - 89% = B = Above Average 70 - 79% = C = Satisfactory 60 - 69% = D = Below Average Below 60 = F = Unsatisfactory I = Incomplete Grades will reflect achievement in the following areas: written and program competency test scores, homework, class assignments, employability skills, class participation, attendance, lab performance, and externship evaluations.

https://www2.ed.gov/about/contacts/gen/index.html#frs

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All Job & Career Training students who attend a minimum of 90% of a course and successfully complete the required work, 70% (grade of C or better) will receive a Career Portfolio, complete the program, and graduate.

Official transcripts are provided to eligible students upon program completion in their career portfolio. Students may print their unofficial transcript by accessing the Achademix student portal. Requests for official transcripts may be issued to the student or sent to other schools, employers or agencies. (https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Adult%20Ed/Transcript-Request-Form.pdf) Completed official transcript request forms should be faxed to 440-891-7642 or mailed to Polaris Career Center, Attention: Adult Education, 7285 Old Oak Blvd., Middleburg Heights, Ohio, 44130. Requests will be processed within 10-14 business days. GRIEVANCE POLICY/PROCEDURE Polaris Career Center believes that complaints and grievances are best handled and resolved as close to their origin as possible. Therefore, the proper channeling of complaints involving instruction or discipline will be as follows: Step 1) Classroom Instructor Step 2) Adult Education Student Advisor or Designee Step 3) Adult Education Director

Step 1) The student must obtain a Complaint/Grievance form from the Welcome Center in the front lobby, or in the Adult Education office, complete it and submit it to their instructor within 5 working days of the issue. The classroom instructor will respond verbally and in writing to the student by completing the form within 5 working days and returning the form to the student. If a satisfactory resolution is achieved, no further action is necessary.

Step 2) If a satisfactory resolution is not achieved, the student may insert the current date in the Step Two section of the original form and submit it to the Adult Education Student Advisor or Designee, but, no later than 3 working days after receiving the written notification. The advisor or designee will reply verbally and in writing to the student within 5 working days after receipt of the Complaint/Grievance form.

Step 3) If a satisfactory resolution is still not achieved, the student should insert the current date in the Step Three section of the form and submit it to the Adult Education Director. Once the Adult Education Director has received the form he/she will make a decision regarding the grievance within 5 working days of the written notification. The student will also be given the opportunity to meet with the Adult Education Director. The decision of the Adult Education Director will be final and the process will end. Students have the right to contact the Council on Occupational Education 7840 Roswell Road, Building 300 Suite 325 Atlanta, Georgia 30350 770-396-3898 www.council.org

https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Adult%20Ed/Transcript-Request-Form.pdf

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HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA VERIFICATION POLICY When registering, prospective students must show proof of high school completion with their diploma, unofficial transcript from an accredited high school recognized by the United States Department of Education or a nationally recognized certificate of high school equivalence. Documentation proof must be translated to the English language for all foreign documents. If the student’s diploma is from a foreign country, the student must have the diploma translated into English by an authorized, certifying official at an official translation service to determine if it is equivalent to a U.S. diploma. Evaluators charge for this service and it can take several weeks. Please visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services at www.naces.org to view a list of evaluators. If the school has reason to believe that the high school diploma, transcript or high school equivalency is not valid, the school will require additional documentation. If the school has reason to believe that the high school diploma is not valid or was not obtained from an entity that provides secondary school education, the school will evaluate the validity of the student’s high school completion. Students who indicate on their FAFSA that they graduated high school must give the name, city, and state of the high school. FAFSA on the Web will not allow students to skip these items, and it will have a drop-down list of both public and private high schools populated by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Inclusion on the list does not mean that a diploma from the school is valid, nor does exclusion from the list mean that the diploma is invalid. Acceptable documentation for checking the validity of a student’s high school completion will include obtaining a copy of the diploma and a final transcript that shows all the courses taken by the student. For students who completed their secondary schooling outside the United States, comparable documents can help, as can the services of companies that determine the validity of foreign secondary school credentials. Another resource that will be used is the state department of education in which the high school is located, if that department has jurisdiction over the high school. If the school has reason to believe the high school diploma is dubious—e.g., the school knows the student bought the diploma or transcript and was required to perform little or no work—the financial aid office will make every attempt to validate the diploma before awarding financial aid to the student.

JOB SEARCH ASSISTANCE Adult Education Job & Career Training Program students are provided with employability skills training that consists of job search techniques, resume writing, interviewing skills, and general work ethics. Attendance for this training is mandatory for all Job & Career Training students. Job search assistance, through the Office of Corporate Partnerships, is available to students. All students are required to register through the Ohio Means Jobs website as part of their program. It is recommended students use this website with their job search. Employment is not guaranteed. Students can access job opportunities through the Polaris Career Center Office of Corporate Partnerships and the Ohio Means Jobs website. LIABILITY Certain risks may be involved in each course. Polaris Career Center shall not be liable for any losses or injury whatsoever to persons or property arising from enrollment in any course. By registering for a course, the registrant acknowledges the assumption of those risks and releases Polaris Career Center from any liability whatsoever.

http://www.naces.org/

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MISREPRESENTATION POLICY Polaris Career Center strives to be a career center of high integrity and is committed to providing the most accurate information through all mediums to anyone associated with the school. Polaris Career Center will make every effort to not engage in misrepresentation of any form as defined by the U.S. Department Regulatory Citation: 34 CFR § 668.71 (c) which defines misrepresentation as any false, erroneous or misleading statement an eligible institution, one of its representatives, or any ineligible institution, organization, or person with whom the eligible institution has an agreement to provide educational programs, or to provide marketing, advertising, recruiting or admissions services makes directly or indirectly to a student, prospective student or any member of the public, or to an accrediting agency, to a State agency, or to the Secretary. A misleading statement includes any statement that has the likelihood or tendency to deceive. A statement is any communication made in writing, visually, orally, or through other means. Misrepresentation includes the dissemination of a student endorsement or testimonial that a student gives either under duress or because the institution required the student to make such an endorsement or testimonial to participate in a program. NATIONAL CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION AND RESEARCH (NCCER) Polaris Career Center HVAC/R and Welding programs are approved by NCCER and utilize the NCCER training curriculum. Polaris Career Center follows all policies and procedures set forth by NCCER. OFFICIAL FILES & RECORDS OF STUDENTS All student records for the current school year are maintained in fireproof, locked filing cabinets in the Adult Education office. All student records are backed-up electronically. CANCELLATION POLICY The Adult Education department must cancel programs that do not attain the required minimum enrollment. If a program is cancelled, all payment plans are null and void and full refunds are disbursed to the student within 45 business days. PROGRAM COSTS The following is a listing of the 2018-2019 Job & Career Training programs and the costs associated with each:

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CARDIOGRAPHIC TECHNICIAN

Tuition $2,707.00

Materials & Assessment Fees (non-refundable if used)

Certification Exam Fees (CET, CCT, Healthcare Provider CPR) $365.00

WorkKeys Assessment $30.00

Portfolio $12.00

Flash Drive $10.00

SUB-TOTAL $417.00

Books & Supplies Fees (non-refundable)

Electrocardiography for Healthcare Professionals with student CD $71.00

ISBN: 978007802067-4

Dubin's Rapid Interpretaion of EKG's $48.00

ISBN: 912912065

BP/Stethoscope Kits $40.00

Holter Kit $3.00

EKG Caliper $9.00

SUB-TOTAL $171.00

TOTAL $3,295.00

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNICIAN

Tuition $7,846.00

Materials & Assessment Fees: (non-refundable if used)

Certification Exam Fee (ASE & MACS) $80.00


Portfolio $12.00

Flash Drive $10.00

T-shirts (4) $60.00

Safety Glasses $5.00

SUB TOTAL $197.00


Textbook & Workbook- Modern Automotive Technology, 8th Edition $108.00

Workbook - Maintenance & Light Repair Included

ISBN: 978-1-61960-690-6

Workbook - Modern Automotive Technology, 8th Edition $24.00

ISBN: 978-1-61960-375-2

ASG1 Study Guide $20.00

Basic Entry Level Tools $800.00

SUB TOTAL $952.00

TOTAL $8,995.00

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COSMETOLOGY ACADEMY

Tuition $13,011.00



Flash Drive $10.00

Portfolio $12.00

SUB-TOTAL $52.00


Textbook - Milady Standard Cosmetology Hardcover $102.00

ISBN: 9781285769417

Textbook - Softcover Theory Workbook $44.00

ISBN: 9781285769455

Textbook - Milady Practical Workbook $44.00

ISBN: 9781285769479

Textbook - Exam Review $32.00

ISBN: 9781285769554

Online Licensing Preparation Printed Access Card $35.00

ISBN-13: 9781285769790

Marianna Kit $675.00

SUB-TOTAL $932.00

TOTAL $13,995.00

DENTAL ASSISTING

Tuition $9,536.00


Certification Exam Fees (CODA, Healthcare Provider CPR) $140.00

Materials $50.00


Flash Drive $10.00

Portfolio $12.00

SUB TOTAL $242.00


Textbook - Student Workbook and Dental Instruments $217.00

Pocket guide Package

ISBN: 9780323495868

SUB TOTAL $217.00

TOTAL $9,995.00

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EARLY CHILD CARE EDUCATION/CHILD DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATE

Tuition $6,080.00


CDA Application Fee $425.00

Heartsaver Infant/Child/Adult CPR/AED $64.00

Communicable Disease Training $59.00

First Aid Training $59.00

Child Abuse Recognition Training $59.00

Binder & Supplies $10.00


Flash Drive $10.00

Portfolio $12.00

SUB TOTAL $728.00


Textbook – Essentials for Working w/ Young Children 2nd edition $75.00

ISBN: 978-1-63126-024-7

Textbook – Essentials for Working with Young Children Workbook $17.00

ISBN: 978-1-63126-025-4

Infant/Toddler CDA Competency Standards Book $95.00

ISBN:

SUB TOTAL $187.00

TOTAL $6,995.00

HVAC/R

Tuition $8,958.00 Materials & Assessment Fees (non-refundable if used)

Certification Exam Fees (ICE,NCCER Core,R410, 608 EPA, PM TECH, OSHA-10) $161.00

Materials $20.00 WorkKeys Assessment $30.00 Flash Drive $10.00 Portfolio $12.00 T-shirts (4) $60.00 Safety Glasses $5.00 SUB TOTAL $298.00 Books & Supplies Fees (non-refundable) Textbook - Core Curriculum Textbook $54.00 ISBN: 9780136086376 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology $140.00 ISBN: 9781305578296 Lab Manual for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning $45.00 ISBN: 9781305578708 SUB TOTAL $239.00 TOTAL $9,495.00

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MEDICAL ASSISTING

Tuition $9,065.00 Materials & Assessment Fees (non-refundable if used)

Certification Exam Fees (CMA, CPT, Healthcare Provider CPR & Heartsaver First Aid) $380.00

Materials (Medical Supplies) $20.00 WorkKeys Assessment $30.00 Flash Drive $10.00 Portfolio $12.00 SUB TOTAL $452.00 Books & Supplies Fees (non-refundable) Textbook - Language of Medicine $74.00 ISBN: 9780323370813

Textbook - Medical Assisting Exam Review for CMA, RMA & CMAS Certification, 4e $75.00

ISBN: 9781451192568 Comprehensive Medical Assisting $92.00 ISBN: 9781451100655 Comprehensive Medical Assisting Study Guide (Bundle) $172.00 Pocket Guide for Medical Assisting (Bundle) Prep U Comprehensive Medical Assisting (Bundle) ISBN: 9781496331847 NHA CPT Study Guide & Practice Test $65.00 SUB TOTAL $478.00 TOTAL $9,995.00

MEDICAL BILLING & CODING

Tuition $8,430.00 Materials & Assessment Fees (non-refundable if used) Certification Exam Fees (CBCS, CEHRS & Pro HIPAA) $248.00 WorkKeys Assessment $30.00 Polo Shirts (2) $50.00 Flash Drive $10.00 Portfolio $12.00 SUB TOTAL $350.00 Books & Supplies Fees (non-refundable) Textbook – Medical Terminology 350 $25.00 ISBN:914901125 Textbook - Legal and Ethical Issues for Health Professionals $116.00 ISBN: 9781284036794 Textbook - Step by Step Med B & C (5 book bundle) $525.00 ISBN: 9780323224314 Textbook - The Language of Medicine $74.00 ISBN: 9780323370813 Textbook - Electronic Health Records $126.00 ISBN: 97873402141 Textbook - Computers in the Medical Office $105.00 ISBN: 9780077836382

Textbook - Comprehensive Health Insurance: Billing, Coding and Reimbursement $114.00

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MEDICAL BILLING & CODING (Continued)

ISBN: 9780134294278

Textbook - NHA Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS) Online Prep Pkg. $65.00

ITEM: CBCSPKG008

Textbook - (2012) Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) Online Study Guide $65.00

ITEM: CEHRSPKG003 SUB TOTAL $1,215.00 TOTAL $9,995.00

POLICE ACADEMY

Tuition $6,171.00


Certification Exam Fee ( CPR/AED, First Aid, ASP Baton) $60.00


Portfolio $12.00

Flash Drive $10.00

Materials $20.00

Taser Supplies $125.00

Ammunition/Targets $250.00

SUB TOTAL $507.00


Textbook - Anderson Ohio Criminal Traffic Field Guide 2013 $32.00

ISBN: 9780769867403

Academy Uniform (except shoes) $285.00

SUB TOTAL $317.00

TOTAL $6,995.00

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PHARMACY TECHNICIAN

Tuition $6,744.00


Certification Exam Fee (CPhT, Healthcare Provider CPR) $204.00


Flash Drive $10.00

Portfolio $12.00

SUB TOTAL $256.00


Textbook – Pharmacy Practice for Technicians $86.00

ISBN: 9780763852269

Textbook - Pharmacology for Technicians $91.00

ISBN: 9780763852337

Textbook - Pharmacy Calculations for Technicians $76.00

ISBN: 9780763852214

Textbook - Pharmacy Lab for Technicians $108.00

ISBN: 9780763852399

Law & Ethics for Pharmacy Technicians $60.00

ISBN: 978128502066

Language of Medicine $74.00

ISBN: 9780323370813

SUB TOTAL $495.00

TOTAL $7,495.00

PHLEBOTOMY CERTIFICATION

Tuition $2,918.00 Materials & Assessment Fees (non-refundable is used) Certification Exam Fee (Healthcare Provider CPR, CPT) $174.00 Materials $30.00 WorkKeys Assessment $30.00 Flash Drive $10.00

Portfolio $12.00 SUB TOTAL $256.00 Books & Supplies Fees (non-refundable) Textbook - Phlebotomy Essentials & Exam Review Package $121.00 ISBN: 9781496322845 SUB TOTAL $121.00

TOTAL $3,295.00

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PRECISION/CNC MACHINE TECHNOLOGY

Tuition $8,440.00


OSHA-10 $25.00


Portfolio $12.00

Flash Drive $10.00

Safety Glasses $5.00

SUB TOTAL $82.00


Textbook - Shop Reference for Students and Apprentices $21.00

ISBN: 9780831130794

Textbook - Precision Machining Technology $83.00

ISBN: 9781285444543

Textbook - Lab Manual $22.00

ISBN: 9781285444543

Elementary Blueprint Reading for Machinists $122.00

ISBN: 9781401862565

Tooling U—280-day subscription $225.00

SUB TOTAL $473.00

TOTAL $8,995.00

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WELDING

Tuition $8,252.00


Certification Exam Fee (AWS (2), OSHA-10, NCCER Core Level 1 & Welding) $225.00

AWS Online Access $15.00


Flash Drive $10.00

Portfolio $12.00

SUB TOTAL $292.00


Textbook - Welding Level 1 $67.00

ISBN: 9780134163116

Textbook - Core Curriculum Textbooks $54.00

ISBN: 9780136086376

Textbook - Modern Welding $95.00

ISBN: 9781605257952

Welding Clothing/Equipment: $235.00

(Goggles, Uniform, Bag, Coat, Helmet, Chipper & Gloves)

SUB TOTAL $451.00

TOTAL $8,995.00

RE-ADMISSION POLICY Students wishing to re-enroll for the same program are not granted advanced standing and must complete the program in its entirety. All students who wish to re-enroll must meet with school administration, or designee, prior to re-enrolling to address reasons for non-completion of the previous program. The school reserves the right to disallow entrance into the program. Additionally, any student with an outstanding balance will not be readmitted until the outstanding balance is paid in full. Refer to the steps below.

Pay any outstanding balances in full. You must contact the Administrative Coordinator at (440) 891-7653 to make payment arrangements.

Students who have student loans and did not complete student loan exit counseling when they left school, must go to www.studentloans.gov and click on exit counseling under Tools and Resources to complete.

Submit an official letter of request to Polaris Career Center, Attn: Adult Education Director, 7285 Old Oak Blvd., Midddleburg Hts., Ohio 44130, explaining the reason for previously withdrawing and what steps are being taken to avoid future withdrawals. Please attach any supporting documentation that may be applicable.

Meet with school administration, or designee, once the letter of request and any supporting documentation has been reviewed.

http://www.studentloans.gov/

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CERTIFICATION RE-TEST EXAMS POLICY Polaris Career Center will pay the initial cost for the certification exams taken by students as listed on the Polaris Career Center website, Job & Career Training brochure, Cost Acknowledgement form and the catalog. Re-testing is at the student’s expense. Additional information will be provided by Adult Education office. REFUND POLICY Refunds for Programs Canceled by the School

If tuition and fees are collected in advance of the start date of a program and the school cancels the program, the school will refund 100% of the tuition and fees collected.

If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days of the program start date in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited within 45 business days of the program planned start date on the credit card initially charged.

Refunds for Students Who Cancel On or Before the First Day of Class

If tuition and fees are collected in advance of the start date of classes and the student does not begin classes or withdraws on the first day of classes, the school will apply a $100 cancellation fee.


Refunds for Withdrawal After Class Commences

Please refer to the Withdrawal Policy for the definition of Official and Unofficial Withdrawals.

Tuition refunds are prorated and based on the hours the program was held until withdrawal date. Books and supply fees are non-refundable. Materials and assessment fees are non-refundable if used prior to the withdrawal date. The school will apply a $100 cancellation fee.


Any refund that totals $1 or less will remain on the student account as a credit balance. This does not apply to Financial Aid.

SAFETY STANDARDS Industry safety standards and procedures should be maintained at all times. Each program must conform to established safety practices for that profession. These standards apply to all students, instructors, staff, and visitors. Adult Education students are required to equip themselves with the necessary protective clothing and safety glasses as prescribed by the instructor and State Law.

For liability reasons, no Adult Education student is permitted to be in the classroom or laboratory without the presence of an instructor. SCHOOL CLOSING POLICY Closing of the daytime classes at Polaris Career Center DOES NOT necessarily mean that the evening classes will be canceled. The decision to cancel evening classes will be made by the Adult Education administration by 12:00 PM. Students should monitor the television local news and radio stations, check Polaris Career Center’s website, www.polaris.edu as well as the Polaris Career Center Facebook and Twitter pages/sites.

http://www.polaris.edu/

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SECURITY The interior and exterior of Polaris Career Center are under surveillance by video equipment. A recording may be used as evidence by Polaris Career Center Security and Administration or by the police/law enforcement in any situation involving the violation of any rule, regulation, policy, or law. Security Guard (Daytime) Polaris cell 440-829-8652 or Polaris office 440-891-7627

Jeff Traine [email protected]

Security Guard (Evening) Polaris cell 440-829-8652 or Polaris office 440-891-7627 Dave McGlynn [email protected]

OR call the Welcome Center by dialing (440) 891-7600 or 0 internally Please call x7777 in case of an emergency Polaris Career Center takes the safety and welfare of our students seriously. The Polaris Career Center campus security office is located in the Main High School office. The district also employs Middleburg Heights Police Officers during the school day and they are stationed in the main office during daytime hours. Southwest General Health Center’s Security also patrol and have access to the campus grounds and property twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

All students and staff are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior, destructive action or any emergency to Polaris Career Center security or any faculty/staff member. SMOKING & TOBACCO

Board Policy Reference: 5512 - USE OF TOBACCO The Board of Education is committed to providing students, staff, and visitors with an indoor tobacco and smoke-free environment. The negative health effects of tobacco use for both the users and nonusers, particularly in connection with second hand smoke, are well established. Further, providing a non-smoking and tobacco-free environment is consistent with the responsibilities of teachers and staff to be positive role models for our students. For purposes of this policy, "use of tobacco" means to chew or maintain any substance containing tobacco, including smokeless tobacco, in the mouth to derive the effects of tobacco, as well as all uses of tobacco or tobacco substitutes, including cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff or any other matter or substances that contain tobacco, in addition to papers used to roll cigarettes and/or the smoking of electronic, "vapor," or other substitute forms of cigarettes, clove cigarettes or other lighted smoking devices for burning tobacco or any other substance. In order to protect students and staff who choose not to use tobacco from an environment noxious to them, the Board prohibits the possession, consumption, purchase or attempt to purchase and/or use of tobacco or tobacco substitute products by students on Board premises, in Board-owned vehicles, within any indoor facility owned or leased or contracted for by the Board, and/or used to provide education or library services to children, and at all Board-sponsored events. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code and in accordance with policies of the Board.



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SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES POLICY Polaris Career Center may provide accommodations to students with documented disabilities. A student is not required to disclose his/her disability however, if the student desires accommodations, it is the student’s responsibility to notify the Adult Education Assistant Director of his/her disability. The student must request accommodations in writing as well as provide current documentation prepared by an appropriate professional that includes a diagnosis and the necessary accommodations to assist the student in his/her training program. Polaris Career Center is accessible to students with physical disabilities. Students should contact the Adult Education office prior to arrival for parking instructions and elevator location information. In accordance with Title VI of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX of the Education Amendments, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Polaris Joint Vocational School District’s policy prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, ancestry, economic status, military status, or age in its educational programs, activities, services or employment policies.

The Board does not discriminate on the basis of legally acquired genetic information.

If you are having a problem or have questions or concerns regarding compliance with Title IX or Section 504, contact: Assistant Superintendent Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator 440.891.7643 Room 225

STUDENT DATA COLLECTION POLICY Student data and information is collected and reported by the school to the schools governing and accrediting agencies as required by each agency. Agencies include but are not limited to the Ohio Department of Higher Education, U.S. Department of Education, the Council of Occupational Education, and programmatic agencies such as the Ohio Board of Cosmetology, NCCER, and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. Additionally, students who participant in the federal student loan program will have their information reported to the Wright International Student Services (WISS). Those students who owe an outstanding balance to the school may be referred to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office. STUDENT DATA SECURITY Polaris Career Center operates technology with a secure network and data is backed up daily and stored offsite to prevent it from becoming lost or accessed illegally. STUDENT PERSONNEL SERVICES A Licensed Counselor is available to discuss educational, Job & Career Training, social, or personal concerns. - Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment call 440-891-7600.

Adult Basic Literacy Education instructors and classes are available to students needing extra assistance with basic academic skills. Students should contact the ASPIRE office at 440-891-7647 for information and assistance.

Maintenance and security personnel are also available to assist students while at the career center.

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STUDENT RIGHT-TO-KNOW ACT Student Right-to-Know Act also known as the "Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act" (Public Law 101-542), which was passed by Congress November 9, 1990. Title I, Section 103, requires institutions eligible for Title IV funding to calculate completion or graduation rates of certificate- or degree-seeking, full-time students entering that institution, and to disclose these rates to all current and prospective students. To help students make a good decision about their educational future, Polaris Career Center discloses completion or graduation rates and retention rates reported to Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). The rates are based on the 12-month period that ended August 31 of the prior year. The IPEDS data is available at www.polaris.edu/financial-aid. Students and prospective students can review completion or graduation rates by program at www.polaris.edu/GE. The statistics are also provided by College Navigator function of the National Center for Education Statistics web site, https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=polaris+career+center&s=all&id=390905 STUDENT SEARCH AND SEIZURE POLICY

Board Policy Reference: 5771 - SEARCH AND SEIZURE The Board of Education recognizes that the privacy of students or their belongings may not be violated by unreasonable search and seizure and directs that no student be searched without reasonable suspicion or in an unreasonable manner. The Board acknowledges the need for in-school storage of student possessions and shall provide storage places, including desks and lockers, for that purpose. Such spaces remain the property of the Board and, in accordance with law, may be the subject of random search. Where locks are provided for such places, students may lock them against incursion by other students, but in no such places shall students have an expectation of privacy as to prevent examination by a school official. The Board directs the school directors to conduct a routine inspection at least annually of all such storage places. School authorities are charged with the responsibility of safeguarding the safety and well-being of the students in their care. In the discharge of that responsibility, school authorities may search the person or property, including vehicles, of a student, with or without the student's consent, whenever they reasonably suspect that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of law or of school rules. The extent of the search will be governed by the seriousness of the alleged infraction and the student's age. This authorization to search shall also apply to all situations in which the student is under the jurisdiction of the Board. Administrators are authorized to arrange for a breath-test instrument for the purpose of determining if a student has consumed an alcoholic beverage. It is not necessary for the test to determine blood-alcohol level, since the Board has established a zero tolerance for alcohol use. Search of a student's person or intimate personal belongings shall be conducted by a person of the student's gender, in the presence of another staff member of the same gender, and only in exceptional circumstances when the health or safety of the student or of others is immediately threatened. The Board also authorizes the use of canines, trained in detecting the presence of drugs or devices, when the Superintendent has reasonable suspicion that illegal drugs or devices may be present in a school. This means of detection shall be used only to determine the presence of drugs in locker areas and other places on school property where such substances could be concealed. Canine detection must be conducted in collaboration with law enforcement or with organizations certified in canine detection authorities and is not to be used to search individual students unless a warrant has been obtained prior to the search.


http://www.polaris.edu/GE

https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=polaris+career+center&s=all&id=390905

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Except as provided below, a request for the search of a student or a student's possessions will be directed to the director who shall seek the freely offered consent of the student to the inspection. Whenever possible, a search will be conducted by the director in the presence of the student and a staff member other than the director. A search prompted by the reasonable belief that health and safety are immediately threatened will be conducted with as much speed and dispatch as may be required to protect persons and property. The Director shall be responsible for the prompt recording in writing of each student search, including the reasons for the search; information received that established the need for the search and the name of informant, if any; the persons present when the search was conducted; any substances or objects found; and the disposition made of them. The Director shall be responsible for the custody, control, and disposition of any illegal or dangerous substance or object taken from a student. The Superintendent shall prepare administrative guidelines to implement this policy.

THEFT POLICY Students are not permitted to take, attempt to take, or be in possession of the property of another without the permission of the owner, including Polaris Career Center. Personal property found on Polaris Career Center premises must be turned into the Welcome Center, Adult Education office, or Polaris security in a timely manner. Failure to do so may be considered theft. Students who violate this policy may be dismissed from their Polaris Career Center program under the Adult Education Student Code of Conduct. The Withdrawal/Refund policy will apply. Polaris Career Center may contact Middleburg Heights Police Department and possibly file charges. Polaris Career Center assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen items TRANSCRIPT REQUEST PROCEDURE Official transcripts are provided to eligible students upon program completion in their career portfolio. Students may print their unofficial transcript by accessing the Achademix student portal. Requests for official transcripts may be issued to the student or sent to other schools, employers or agencies. (https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Adult%20Ed/Transcript-Request-Form.pdf) Completed official transcript request forms should be faxed to 440-891-7642 or mailed to Polaris Career Center, Attention: Adult Education, 7285 Old Oak Blvd., Middleburg Heights, Ohio, 44130. Requests will be processed within 10-14 business days. TRANSFER POLICIES TRANSFER OF STUDENTS/CREDITS FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS Polaris Career Center does not grant advanced standing to students transferring from other institutions.

TRANSFER OF CREDITS TO ANOTHER SCHOOL Polaris Career Center Job & Career Training programs are based on clock hours. Students wishing to transfer credit for training to another school will need to consult with the other school to find out what credit for training, if any, will be accepted. Polaris Career Center does not grant credit and any credit awarded is at the discretion of the other institution.

TRANSFER OF STUDENTS BETWEEN PROGRAMS Prior to the program start date, registered students may not transfer to another program. Students must withdraw from their current program and re-register for another program. The $100 cancellation fee policy will be in effect and applied.

https://www.polaris.edu/PolarisCareerCenter/media/Polaris-Career-Center/Adult%20Ed/Transcript-Request-Form.pdf

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TUITION PAYMENT PLAN POLICY An interest-free tuition payment plan is available through the Adult Education Department for Job & Career Training Programs.

Tuition not covered by financial aid will be divided equally into monthly payments with an initial payment due at the time of registration. The final payment will be scheduled one-month prior to the end of the program.

Monthly payments are due the 1st of each month.

Any payment not received within 5 calendar days of the listed due date will incur a $50 late fee. The late fee will be added to the current monthly payment amount and is due immediately.

Students may access their Achademix student portal account (pcc.axstudent.com) to pay their tuition payments online.

Unpaid balances not paid by the end of the fiscal year (June 30) will be referred to the Ohio Attorney General’s office for collection.

Students who are 60 days or more past due on tuition plan payments may be removed from their program.

Student certificates, portfolios, and transcripts will not be released to any student who fails to pay all fees. VACCINATION POLICY There are no vaccination requirements for admission. If required by the externship location, student must provide proof of current immunizations. Students are responsible for the cost of immunizations. VETERANS RECEIVING BENEFITS ACADEMIC AND ATTENDANCE PROBATION POLICY Attendance for all students will be taken daily and evaluated every two weeks by the Adult Education Director or designee.

Veteran students failing to make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) (70% or “C” grades or 90% attendance) at the time of their program evaluation will be placed on academic probation. A Veteran student placed on academic probation is required to develop an approved student intervention plan based on the Student Academic Probation form, with their Polaris instructor, student advisor and the Director of Adult Education or designee. The plan will detail what steps are needed to be removed from this status before the next evaluation point.

A Veteran student may appeal their probation by following the SAP Appeal Procedure outlined in the Adult Education Student Policies and Financial Aid Consumer Handbook.

Upon further review at the time indicated in the approved student intervention plan, if the Veteran student still does not meet satisfactory academic and attendance requirements or has not followed the student intervention plan, the Veteran student will be removed from the program. The Polaris Career Center Withdrawal and Refund policies will apply.

Veteran students will follow the Veterans Policy for Evaluation of Prior Credit if wishing to re-enroll in the program. VETERANS POLICY FOR EVALUATION OF PRIOR CREDIT The Adult Education Director or designee will evaluate official transcripts and documentation of previous education and training to determine if applicable.

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VISITORS It is important to emphasize that even though the school is public, we do not welcome unauthorized visitors or loiterers. Any visitor with a valid reason to be in class must have prior approval from the Adult Education office. All persons who are not regular staff members, employees, or Adult Education students of the school district should come to the Welcome Center and obtain authorization and permission to be in the building. Adult Education students are not permitted to conduct personal business at school. WEAPONS POLICY

Board Policy Reference: 3217 – WEAPONS The Board of Education prohibits professional staff members from possessing, storing, making, or using a weapon, including a concealed weapon, in a school safety zone and any setting that is under the control and supervision of the Board for the purpose of school activities approved and authorized by the Board including, but not limited to, property leased, owned, or contracted for by the Board, a school-sponsored event, or in a Board-owned vehicle, except as permitted by law without the permission of the Superintendent. The term "weapon" means any object which, in the manner in which it is used, is intended to be used, or is represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons. Weapons include, but are not limited to, firearms, guns of any type, including air and gas-powered guns (whether loaded or unloaded), knives, razors, clubs, electric weapons, metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons, ammunition, and explosives. The Superintendent shall refer a staff member who violates this policy to law enforcement officials, regardless of whether such staff member possesses a valid concealed weapon license. The staff member will also be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination, as permitted by applicable Board policy and the terms of existing collective bargaining agreements. Exceptions to this policy include: weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel; handguns in the possession of a person who has a valid concealed handgun license or who is an active duty member of the armed forces with a valid military identification card and documentation of successful completion of firearms training if the handgun remains in a vehicle with the individual or is left in a locked vehicle when the person exits the vehicle; weapons carried by an on-duty security officer employed by the Board; objects indistinguishable from a firearm used during school safety trainings; items approved by a director as part of a class or individual presentation under adult supervision, if used for the purpose of and in the manner approved. (Working firearms and ammunition shall never be approved.) Staff members shall report any information concerning weapons and/or threats of violence by students, staff members, or visitors to the Assistant Superintendent. Failure to report such information may subject the staff member to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

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The Board directs the Superintendent to post notices prohibiting the carrying and possession of concealed weapons in a school safety zone, including schools and school buildings, on school premises and school buses, and at school activities. The notices shall contain a statement substantially in the following form: Unless otherwise authorized by law, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 2923.122, no person shall knowingly possess, have under the person's control, convey, or attempt to convey a deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance into a school safety zone. The Superintendent shall conspicuously post such notices at each entrance of a school and/or school building and in areas inside the building where visitors are required to report. Notices shall also be posted at each entrance leading into a school activity (particularly those activities held outside of the school building) and parcel of land. Further, notices shall be posted in each school bus and other Board-owned vehicle, including a school van. © Neola 2017

WITHDRAWAL POLICY

A withdrawal from a Job & Career Training program does not eliminate the student’s debt to Polaris Career Center. Students considering withdrawing from a Job & Career Training program should contact the Adult Education Counselor or Administrative Coordinator. Official Withdrawal – Withdrawal from a Job & Career Training Program is considered official: On the date notification is received from the student. If the student is removed for grades, attendance, disciplinary action, non-payment of financial obligation. Tuition fees will continue to accrue until notification is received from the student or if the student is removed for the above. A $100 cancellation fee will be charged for all Job & Career Training program withdrawals. Tuition refunds are prorated and based on the hours the program was held until withdrawal notification date. Books and supply fees are non-refundable. Materials and assessment fees are non-refundable if used prior to the withdrawal date. If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited on the credit card initially charged. In the event a student does not qualify, or is unable to fulfill the program requirements to participate in the externship portion of a program, the student will be ineligible to complete the program and, therefore, the withdrawal policy will be applied. Reasons for non-participation may include the following but are not limited to: violation of the Polaris Career Center Adult Education Student Code of Conduct due to behavior or discipline, attendance below 90%, grade below 70% or C, unsatisfactory drug screen or background check, or non-completion of program competencies/skills.

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Unofficial Withdrawal - Withdrawal from a Job & Career Training Program is considered unofficial when a student does not attend for 10 consecutive business days. Fees will continue to accrue until the 10th day at which time a student will be withdrawn automatically. A $100 cancellation fee will be charged for all Job & Career Training program withdrawals. Tuition refunds are prorated and based on the hours the program has been held until withdrawal date. Books and supply fees are non-refundable. Materials and assessment fees are non-refundable if used prior to the withdrawal date. If a student paid by check or cash, the refund will be disbursed within 45 business days in the form of a Polaris Career Center check. If the student paid using a credit card, the refund will be credited on the credit card initially charged. Students who officially withdraw or are unofficially withdrawn and have a balance due will be invoiced by Polaris Career Center and given until the end of the fiscal year (June 30th) to pay the balance. Students may contact the Adult Education office if a payment plan is needed. If after June 30th the balance is not paid-in-full, the debt will be reported to the Ohio Attorney General’s office for collection. Students must pick up books and supplies within 30 days of withdrawal. Contact the Adult Education office at (440) 891-7600 to make arrangements. WORKKEYS® ASSESSMENTS & ACT INFORMATION The WorkKeys® Assessments, published by ACT Inc., measure the basic skills needed for success in a Job & Career Training Program and in the workplace. All Job & Career Training students are required to complete the following WorkKeys® Assessments:

Applied Math

Workplace Documents

Graphic Literacy

WorkKeys® scores are given to the Student Counselor to review and discuss with students. If a student’s score does not meet the benchmark for a Job and Career Training program, a referral to the Polaris Career Center Aspire Program may be made for intervention. Retests are available upon request. Polaris Career Center will cover the cost for one (1) retest. It is recommended by ACT that students wait a minimum of 30 days before retaking the WorkKeys® assessments.

Student WorkKeys® scores are reported on a student’s official transcript. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT Students enrolled in courses offered through the Adult Education Department are subject to

Polaris Career Center regulations pertaining to student conduct and discipline.

Adult Education students are to act as mature, responsible adults. In the event that any student who is enrolled in a course through Adult Education exhibits conduct that is disruptive to the educational process or destructive to property, it will be necessary to interrupt that student’s training.

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/workkeys-for-job-seekers/preparation/applied-mathematics.html

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/workkeys-for-job-seekers/preparation/reading-for-information.html

https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/workkeys-for-job-seekers/preparation/locating-information.html

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In order to establish a proper learning environment, it is necessary to maintain classroom control and school discipline. Polaris Career Center constantly strives to make disciplinary decisions that will result in positive student growth. However, certain irresponsible acts can and will result in removal from the course. The Adult Education Director or his/her designee reserves the right to dismiss a student from the student’s course if the student demonstrates a behavior or attendance problem in their program or externships. (Polaris Career Center Withdrawal Policy will apply). Any student who fails to comply with this procedure will be dismissed from the course.

In recognition that any list of prohibited conduct cannot encompass every conceivable action, which may be properly subject to discipline, this Code of Conduct must be interpreted broadly, with substantial discretion in interpretation given to the administrator.

The rules and standards also apply to any misconduct, regardless of where it occurs that is directed at a district employee or the property of such employee.

Disciplinary Action The following course of action pertains to persons who are taking a course or participating in a

program through the Adult Education division of Polaris Career Center. 1) Removal for a period of less than twenty-four (24) hours is normal *disciplinary action. 2) In the event that the violation warrants removal for more than one day including the remainder

of the course/school year, the student will be offered the opportunity to meet with the Adult Education Director or his/her designee.

3) If the participant is identified as being disabled, the participant's disability and any applicable law, rules and regulations will be considered in taking disciplinary action.