Summary
The Student Code of Conduct process at TWU is designed to support, investigate, and promote growth and safety for everyone involved.
Body
How the Student Conduct Process Begins
The student conduct process at Trinity Western University may start when a complaint or incident report is submitted to Student Life by another member of the community, or when a Student Conduct Officer (SCO) initiates the process based on observed or reported behavior. Any individual in the TWU community can submit an incident report when they are seeking support and care regarding a potential incident that may have occurred on campus. Submitting an incident report does not automatically mean that Student Conduct Officers will speak to the respondent; the first priority is to determine how best to support the reporting party and address their needs.
Steps of the Student Code of Conduct Investigation
- An incident report is submitted regarding alleged student misconduct.
- The report is reviewed by an SCO to determine if there are sufficient grounds to proceed.
- The initial focus is on supporting the reporting party and understanding their experience.
2. Investigation
- If grounds exist, the SCO conducts a preliminary review, which may include reading the report, interviewing witnesses, or gathering documentation.
- The SCO meets with the reporting party (if applicable), the responding party (the student facing allegations), and any witnesses.
- Both parties can submit written statements and documentary evidence.
- The goal of the investigation is to learn about what happened from all perspectives and to support the parties involved throughout the process.
3. Deliberation & Resolution Meeting
- The SCO or, in serious cases, a Student Conduct Panel, reviews all information using the “balance of probabilities” standard (what is most likely to have happened).
- The panel or SCO determines whether a violation occurred, and if so, what sanctions are appropriate.
- The outcome is communicated in writing, and a resolution meeting is scheduled to discuss findings and next steps.
- Remember, the goal of the process is to promote growth, restoration, and accountability for everyone involved.
4. Sanctions (if applicable)
- Sanctions may be imposed, ranging from warnings and educational assignments to probation, suspension, or expulsion, depending on the severity of the violation.
- The purpose of sanctions is to ensure the growth of the students involved and the safety of the community.
- Sanctions are designed to be redemptive and educational, helping students learn and grow from their experiences.
- Students may be given options for active sanctions, allowing them to choose how to restore themselves to the community.
5. Appeal
- If a student disagrees with the outcome, they may appeal the decision following the steps outlined in their determination letter.
Rights and Support Throughout the Process
Both the reporting party and the responding party have rights, including:
- The right to be informed of the process and outcome
- The right to provide evidence and witnesses
- The right to confidentiality
- The right to support persons (faculty or staff)
- The right to appeal the decision
- The right to access counselling and other support services
TWU is committed to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, ensuring students receive guidance and care throughout the process.
For more information review the policy found here: https://www.twu.ca/about-us/policies-guidelines/student-policies/student-code-conduct