Transfers ToNot transferableDescriptionAttention: LACCD Office for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Acces- sibility Los Angeles, CA 90017 213-891-2315 titleix@email.laccd.edu Standards of Conduct BP 5500. Standards of Student Conduct The Chancellor shall establish procedures for the imposition of disci- pline on students in accordance with the requirements for due process of the federal and state law and regulations. The procedures shall clearly define the conduct that is subject to disci- pline, and shall identify potential disciplinary actions, including but not limited to the removal, suspension, or expulsion of a student. The Board of Trustees shall consider any recommendation from the Chancellor for expulsion. The Board of Trustees shall consider an expulsion recommendation in closed session unless the student requests that the matter be considered in a public meeting. Final action by the Board on the expulsion shall be taken at a public meeting. The procedures shall be made widely available to students through the college catalog and other means. A student enrolling in one of the Los Angeles Community Colleges may rightfully expect that the faculty and administrators of the Colleges will maintain an environment in which there is freedom to learn. This requires that there be appropriate conditions and opportu- nities in the classroom and on the campus. As members of the college community, students should be encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment, to engage in the sustained and independent search for truth, and to exercise their rights to free inquiry and free speech in a responsible, non-violent manner. In the furtherance of the students' interest in free inquiry and the search for truth, it is also important that students be able to hear the views of non-students and engage in the free exchange of ideas with non-students. All persons shall respect and obey civil and criminal law, and shall be subject to legal penalties for violation of laws of the city, county, state and nation. All persons shall respect and obey the rules, regulations and policies of the Los Angeles Community College District. Conduct in all of the Los Angeles Community Colleges must conform to District and college rules and regulations. Violations of such rules and regulations may result in disciplinary action depending on the individual's status as student, faculty, staff or visitor. Violations of such rules and regulations include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Willful disobedience to directions of college officials acting in the performance of their duties. 2. Violation of college rules and regulations, including those con- cerning student organizations, the use of college facilities, or the time, place and manner of public expression or distribution of materials. 3. Dishonesty, such as cheating or knowingly furnishing false information to the colleges. 4. Unauthorized entry to or use of the college facilities. 5. Forgery, alteration or misuse of college documents, records or identification. 6. Obstruction or disruption of classes, administration, disci- plinary procedures or authorized college activities. 7. Theft of or damage to property belonging to the college, a member of the college community or a campus visitor. 8. The malicious or willful disturbance of the peace or quiet of any of the Los Angeles Community Colleges by loud or unusual noise or any threat, challenge to fight, fight, or vio- lation of any rules of conduct as set forth in this Article. Any person whose conduct violates this section shall be considered to have interfered with the peaceful conduct of the activities of the college where such acts are committed. 9. Assault or battery, abuse or any threat of force or violence directed toward any member of the college community or campus visitor engaged in authorized activities. 10. Any possession of controlled substances which would consti- tute a violation of Health and Safety Code section 11350 or Business and Professions Code section 4230, any use of con- trolled substances the possession of which are prohibited by the same, or any possession or use of alcoholic beverages while on any property owned or used by the District or colleges of the District or while participating in any District or college-spon- sored function or field trip. "Controlled substances," as used in this section, include but are not limited to the following drugs and narcotics: 1. opiates, opium and opium derivatives 2. mescaline 3. hallucinogenic substances 4. peyote 5. marijuana 6. stimulants and depressants 7. cocaine 11. Possession, while on a college campus or at a college-sponsored function, of any object that might be used as a lethal weapon is forbidden all persons except sworn peace officers, police officers and other governmental employees charged with policing responsibilities. 12. Behavior while on a college campus or at a college-sponsored function, inconsistent with the District's Non-discrimination 297 Scholastic Policies GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 Policy, which requires that all programs and activities of the Los Angeles Community College District be operated in a manner which is free of "Prohibited Discrimination," defined as discrimination or harassment in violation of state or federal law on the basis of actual or perceived ethnic group identifica- tion, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex (including gender-based sexual harassment), pregnancy, marital status, cancer-related medical condition of an employee, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, or veteran status. 13. Any assemblage of two or more persons to 1) do an unlaw- ful act, or 2) do a lawful act in a violent, boisterous or tumultuous manner. 14. Any agreement between two or more persons to perform illegal acts. 15. A direct or implied expression of intent to inflict physical or mental/emotional harm and/or actions, such as stalking, which a reasonable person would perceive as a threat to per- sonal safety or property. Threats may include verbal statement, written statements, telephone threats or physical threats. 16. Conduct which may be considered disorderly includes; lewd or indecent attire or behavior that disrupts classes or col- lege activities; breach of the peace of the college; aiding, or inciting another person to breach the peace of college premises or functions. 17. Theft or abuse of computer resources including but not limited to: 1. Unauthorized entry into a file to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose. 2. Unauthorized transfer of a file. 3. Unauthorized use of another individual's identification and password. 4. Use of computing facilities to interfere with the work of a student faculty member or college official, or to alter college or district records. 5. Use of unlicensed software. 6. Unauthorized copying of software. 7. Use of computing facilities to access, send or engage in messages which are obscene, threatening, defamatory, present a clear and present danger, violate a lawful regula- tion and/or substantially disrupt the orderly operation of a college campus. 8. Use of computing facilities to interfere with the regular operation of the college or district computing system. 18. Conduct while present on a college campus or at a location operated and/or controlled by the District or at a Dis- trict-sponsored event, which is prohibited by local, State, or federal law. 19. Violations of Academic Integrity include, but are not limited to, the following actions: cheating on an exam, plagiarism, working together on an assignment, paper or project when the instructor has specifically stated students should not do so, submitting the same term paper to more than one instructor, or allowing another individual to assume one's identity for the purpose of enhancing one's grade. 20. Every person who, by physical force, willfully obstructs, or attempts to obstruct, any student or teacher seeking to attend or instruct classes at any of the campuses or facilities owned, controlled or administered by the Board of Trustees of the Los Angeles Community College District, is punishable by a fine not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500) or imprison- ment in a county jail not exceed one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment. As used in this section, "physical force" includes, but is not limited to, use of one's person, individually or in concert with others, to impede access to or movement within or otherwise to obstruct the students or teachers of the classes to which the premises are devoted. 21. Every person who attempts to cause, or causes, any officer or employee of any of the Los Angeles Community Colleges or any public officer or employee to do or refrain from doing, any act in the performance of his/her duties, by means of a threat to inflict any injury upon any person or property, is guilty of a public offense. 22. Every parent, guardian, or other person who assaults or abuses any instructor employed by the District in the presence or hearing of a community college student or in the presence of other community college personnel or students and at a place which is on District premises or public sidewalks, streets, or other public ways adjacent to school premises, or at some other place where the instructor is required to be in connection with assigned college activities is guilty of a misdemeanor. 23. Conduct which poses a threat of harm to the individual and/ or to others. This includes, but is not limited to, the following types of conduct: 1. Unsafe conduct in connection with a Health Services Program (e.g., Nursing, Dental Hygiene, etc.); 2. Failure to follow safety directions of District and/or College staff; 3. Willful disregard of safety rules as adopted by the District and/or College; and/or 4. Negligent behavior which creates an unsafe environment. Smoking Policy Smoking is not permitted in any classroom or other enclosed facility. Smoking is permitted in designated areas only. Drug-Free Campus STANDARDS OF CONDUCT The Los Angeles Community College District is committed to drug- free and alcohol-free campuses. Students and employees are prohibited from unlawfully possessing, using or distributing illicit drugs and alco- hol on District premises, in District vehicles, or as part of any activity of the District or colleges of the District. LACCD BOARD RULE 9803.19 STATES: Alcohol and Drugs. Any possession of controlled substances which would constitute a violation of Health and Safety Code section 11350 or Business and Professions Code sec- tion 4230, any use of controlled substances the possession of which are 298 Scholastic Policies 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG prohibited by the same, or any possession or use of alcoholic beverages while on any property owned or used by the District or colleges of the District or while participating in any District or college-sponsored function or field trip. "Controlled substances," as used in this section include, but are not limited to, the following drugs and narcotics: a. opiates, opium and opium derivatives b. mescaline c. hallucinogenic substances d. peyote e. marijuana f. stimulants and depressants g. cocaine LEGAL AND DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS Federal and State laws regarding alcohol and illicit drugs allow for fines and/or imprisonment. Other legal problems include the loss of one's driver's license and limitations of career choices. A sum- mary of federal penalties for drug related offenses is available at: dea.gov/factsheets In addition to criminal prosecution, violators are also subject to disci- plinary action by the College. Student discipline actions may include the following: warning, reprimand, disciplinary probation, suspension, and/or expulsion. HEALTH RISKS Health risks associated with the abuse of controlled substances include malnutrition, damage to various organs, hangovers, blackouts, general fatigue, impaired learning, dependency, disability and death. Both drugs and alcohol may be damaging to the development of an unborn fetus. Personal problems include diminished self-esteem, depression, alienation from reality, and suicide. Social problems include alienation from and abuse of family members, chronic conflict with authority, and loss of friends, academic standing, and/or co- and extra-curricular opportunities. A summary chart of various drugs and their effects is available at: dea.gov/factsheets COUNSELING, TREATMENT AND REHABILITATION The following counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation resources are available for the treatment of alcohol and drug dependence and abuse: � Los Angeles Community College District Employee Assistance Program (EAP) http://laccd.edu/Departments/HumanResources/ Total-Wellness-Program/Pages/HR-ARFLbenefits.aspx; (800) 342-8111 � National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence www.ncaddnational.org; (800) NCA-CALL � Los Angeles County Alcohol and Drug Program Administration publichealth.lacounty.gov/sapc/; (626) 299-4193 � Alcoholics Anonymous www.aa.org; (213) 387-8316; (818) 988-3001 � Cocaine Anonymous www.ca.org; (213) 839-1141 � Marijuana Anonymous www.marijuana-anonymous.org; (800) 766-6779 � Narcotics Anonymous www.na.org; (800) 863-2962 � Families Anonymous www.familiesanonymous.org; (800) 736-9805 Penalties for Copyright Infringement and Illegal File Sharing Unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing, may subject students to civil and criminal liability. Civil liability for copyright infringement may include payment of monetary damages to the copyright owner. Criminal penalties for copyright infringement may include fines up to $250,000 and imprisonment up to ten years. Students who violate the District's computing facilities usage policy (LACCD Administrative Regulations B-28) may also be subject to college disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension or expulsion. Student Discipline Procedures Community college districts are required by law to adopt standards of student conduct along with applicable penalties for violation (Educa- tion Code Sections 66017, 66300, 76030 and 76031). The Los Angeles Community College District has complied with this requirement by adopting Board Rule 9803, Standards of Student Conduct and 91101, Student Discipline Procedures. The purpose of Board Rule 91101 is to provide uniform procedures to assure due process when a student is charged with a violation of the Standards of Student Conduct. All proceedings held in accordance with these procedures shall relate specifically to an alleged violation of the established Standards of Student Conduct. These provisions do not apply to grievance procedures, student organization councils and courts, or residence determination and other academic and legal requirements for admission and retention. Disciplinary measures may be taken by the College independently of any charges filed through civil or criminal authorities, or both. Copies of the Student Discipline Procedures are available in the Stu- dent Services Office. Student Grievance Procedures The student grievance procedure is designed to provide a prompt and equitable means for resolving student grievances, including but not limited to the grading process. The grievance procedure may be initi- ated by a student or group of students who reasonably believe that they have been subject to unjust action or denied rights that adversely affect their status, rights, or privileges as a student. STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS "The statute of limitations period for requesting a Grievance Hearing under this regulation is 120 calendar days after the occurrence of the incident giving rise to the grievance; or 120 calendar days after the student learns, or should have learned, that the student has a basis for filing a grievance. Pursuing an informal remedy for a grievance does not relieve the Grievant of the responsibility of requesting a Griev- ance Hearing within 120 calendar days of the incident giving rise to the grievance." SUMMARY OF THE CA EDUCATION CODE COVERING GRADING PRACTICES Although the grievance procedures are established to enable a student to challenge a particular grade, students are advised of section 76224 of the California Education Code which provides: "When grades are 299 Scholastic Policies GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 given for any course of instruction taught in a community college district, the grade given to each student shall be the grade determined by the instructor of the course and the determination of the student's grade by the instructor, in the absence of mistake, fraud, bad faith, or incompetency, shall be final." STUDENT HAS THE BURDEN OF PROOF The burden of proving mistake, fraud, bad faith and/or incompetence is on the student. Basically, this means that you, the student, must pro- vide the evidence to prove "mistake, fraud, bad faith or incompetence" against the instructor you are grieving. WHAT KIND OF EVIDENCE DO I NEED? That depends on what you are attempting to prove. In most matters, you will need to supply the Grievance Officer with the course syllabus, any email communications you may have had with the instructor surrounding the matter, and any returned student work. (Please see Step 4 below). WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN INFORMAL AND FORMAL RESOLUTION? Informal Resolution Procedures. The E-55 Administrative Regu- lations states "All parties involved should be encouraged to seek an informal remedy. Informal meetings and discussion between persons directly involved in a grievance are essential at the outset of the dispute and should be encouraged at all stages. An equitable solution should be sought before persons directly involved in the case have assumed official or public opinions that might tend to polarize the dispute and render a solution more difficult." Formal Resolution Procedures. The E-55 Administrative Regula- tions states in part ". . . If there is no informal resolution of the griev- ance, the student has a right to request a Grievance Hearing." LET'S GO OVER THE STEPS . . . STEP 1 Contact your instructor. If you cannot reach the instructor, contact the department chair of the faculty member. If you cannot contact the department chair, contact the department's Dean. Visit the list of Department Chairs. STEP 2 If your grade matter has not been resolved at these levels, you are enti- tled to file a Statement of Grievance with the Grade Grievance Officer. Read LACCD Administrative Regulations E-55 (Student Grievance Procedures) to understand the grade grievance process. STEP 3 Complete and sign the E-55 Form 1 Statement of Grievance and E-55 Form 2 Request for Formal Grievance Hearing go to the next step. STEP 4 Go back through your course materials and retrieve the following written materials: 1. Course outline 2. All graded papers/quizzes/exams and/or graded scantrons 3. Any email communications with the instructor, department chairperson and/or area dean regarding the grade dispute or coursework 4. Any other written material you deem relevant towards proving your claim STEP 5 Collect all materials from Steps 3 and 4 and put them in an envelope. Contact the College Ombudsman and Grade Grievance Officer to schedule an intake appointment at ombuds@piercecollege.edu. Our address is Los Angeles Pierce College, 6201 Winnetka Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91371. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELATING TO STUDENT COMPLAINTS Please see Administrative Regulations E-55 for more specific informa- tion on hearings and appeals. Please also note that the student grievance procedure does not apply to the following. a. Challenge process for prerequisites, corequisites, advisories and limitations on enrollment. Information on challenges to prerequi- sites is available from the Office of Academic Affairs. b. Alleged violations of sexual harassment, actions dealing with alleged discrimination on the basis of membership in a protected class such as ethnic group identification, religion, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability. These complaints are handled through the District's Office for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility at (213) 891-2315. c. An appeal for residency determination. Residency appeals should be filed with that Admissions & Records Office. d. Eligibility, disqualification or reinstatement of financial aid. Proce- dures for eligibility, disqualification or reinstatement of Financial Aid may be obtained in the Financial Aid Office. e. Student Discipline: Actions dealing with student discipline are handled through the Office of Student Services. f. Freedom of the Press: Issues pertaining to freedom of press and journalism are addressed in Administrative Regulations E-63 and Board Rules 9703 and 9704. g. Employee Discipline. Students may file complaints about employee conduct with the appropriate administrator (see Board Rule 10101 � Unsolicited Written Derogatory Communications). h. Challenges of established District policies, e.g. Board Rules and Administrative Regulations. Grievances regarding District policy, which are beyond the authority of a college president, shall be referred to the Chancellor or Chancellor's designee for appropriate handling and response. i. Financial claims against the District. Financial claims need to be made through the District's Office of General Counsel. Information about other procedures is listed in the schedule of classes and college catalogs or may be obtained from the Student Service Office. Most complaints, grievances or disciplinary matters should be resolved at the campus level, before escalating issues to other resources. Please follow the link below for more information at the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office: https://www.cccco.edu/Complaint-Process-Notice Students may file complaints about Los Angeles Pierce College employee misconduct with the appropriate administrator (see 300 Scholastic Policies 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG LACCD Board Rule 10101 � Unsolicited Written Derogatory Com- munications) or call the Office of Academic Affairs at (818) 719-6444. Students may file complaints about Student Services Units with the Office of Vice President of Student Services on campus (Student Ser- vices Building, 3rd floor) or call (818) 719-6418 for more information. � Student Services Complaint Form � submit the completed form to the Office of Vice President of Student Services located on the 3rd floor of the Student Services Building. Student Academic Integrity Policy Statement The faculty and administration of Los Angeles Pierce College are commit- ted to the belief that honesty and integrity are integral components of the academic process. The College expects students to be honest and ethical at all times in their pursuit of academic goals. Students who violate the code of academic conduct by which the College maintains its academic integrity will be dealt with in a manner reflecting the seriousness of these violations. I. Violations of academic honesty and integrity occur when a student participates in any act in which he/she uses deception or fraud while performing an academic activity. Violations include, but are not limited to, the following: � Using study aids such as calculators, tape recorders or notes, when not authorized by the instructor. � Cheating on examinations, assignments or experiments (allowing another student to copy one's answers or copying the answers of other students; exchanging information by any means, including verbal exchanges, sign language, hand signals, secret codes, passed notes, creation of a distraction for the pur- pose of cheating; changing answers on a previously scored test, assignment or experiment; inventing information and/or data.) � Allowing another student to assume one's identity in order to fulfill an assignment or take a test. � Submitting for a grade the words, ideas, and/or written work (including laboratory notes and drawings) of another person without giving due credit to that person. This includes pur- chased papers or papers written by other students. � Falsifying or attempting to falsify attendance records and/or grade rosters. � Conspiring with other students to commit any of the above behaviors. II. Consequences for any offense against academic honesty and integ- rity may include: � An "F" or a "0" on the examination or assignment. � Suspension from the class and other sanctions and/or penalties authorized by the Board of Trustees for violations of the Dis- trict Code of Conduct. � A record of the student's violation placed in the student's disciplinary file. III. Student's Right to Appeal Students have the right to appeal disciplinary actions through the Board of Trustees Discipline procedures. A final grade may be contested through the student grievance procedures. IV. Reporting a Violation When an alleged incident of academic dishonesty occurs, it is recommended that a faculty member take the following steps to report the incident: a. Inform the student and the department chair of the nature of the alleged violation and the impending course of action. b. Complete the Academic Dishonesty Report Form and submit it, along with any related evidence, to the V.P. of Student Ser- vices or their designee. The student should also receive a copy of the form from the Office of the V.P. of Student Services or their designee within ten (10) working days of the incident. c. The V.P. of Student Services, or their designee, will forward information about the incident to the Department Chair and the appropriate Dean of Academic Affairs. d. The V.P. of Student Services or designee will investigate the alle- gations and recommend any appropriate disciplinary actions. V. Faculty Responsibilities In order to maintain an environment free of academic dishonesty, the following recommendations are made to the faculty regarding their responsibility to uphold academic integrity: � Make every attempt to conduct their classroom in a manner which encourages honorable behavior and learning, to ensure student success and discourage academic dishonesty. � Inform students of the course requirements, grading procedures and expectations of responsible academic conduct. � Inform students of the College policy on Academic Integrity and the potential consequences for violations of this policy. � Inform students of their right to due process should they wish to contest the cheating allegation. 301 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 Student Services & Academic Resources Student Services Los Angeles Pierce College offers a broad array of support services for students. The division of student services exists to assist students in accomplishing their educational objectives and to provide oppor- tunities for involvement in a number of co-curricular activities. Overall supervision is the responsibility of the Vice President of Student Services. The Vice President of Student Services provides leadership and oversight of student services departments. The office ensures com- pliance with State and Federal laws and regulations. Student success is our highest priority. Students are encouraged to contact the Vice President of Student Services to provide feedback about our services and programs. Financial Aid � Location: Student Services Building, 1st floor in the Welcome Center � Website: www.lapc.edu/financial-aid What is Financial Aid? The purpose of the financial aid program is to provide financial assis- tance to students who, without such aid, would be unable to attend college. Although it is expected that students and parents will make a maximum effort to meet the cost of education, financial aid is available to fill the gap between family resources and the annual educational expenses. Financial aid is meant to supplement the family's existing income/financial resources and should not be depended upon as the sole means of income to support other non-educational expenses. Financial aid is available from various sources such as Federal, State, institutional, community organizations and individual donors. Financial aid can be awarded in the form of grants, loans, work-study, scholarships, or a combination of these. Who Is Eligible for Financial Aid? To be considered for financial aid, students must meet the following minimum requirements: � Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen. An eligible non-citizen is a U.S. permanent resident who has documentation from the Department of Homeland Security verifying that his/her stay in the U.S. is for other than a temporary purpose. � Demonstrate financial need. � Be making Satisfactory Academic Progress in a course of study leading to a Certificate, AA or AS Degree, or Transfer to a Bacca- laureate Degree Program. � Not be in default on any student loan such as Federal Perkins Loans, Federal Stafford Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized), Federal Direct Loans (subsidized or unsubsidized), Supplemental Loans to Assist Students (SLS), or FPLUS Loans (Parent Loans for undergraduate students) at any college attended. � Not owe a refund on a Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) or Academic Compet- itiveness Grant (ACG) or SMART Grant. � Be enrolled as a regular student in an eligible program. � Have a valid Social Security Number (SSN). � Received a high school diploma or its equivalent, or passed a high school proficiency examination. When to Apply The best time to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is between October 1st and March 2nd prior to the start of the academic year (fall semester). FOLLOW THE TIMELINE BELOW October 1 - March 2 FAFSA and CA Dream Application priority application March 2 Deadline to apply for Cal Grant May 1 Priority deadline to submit required documents to the Financial Aid Office September 2 Extended Cal Grant deadline for CA Community College students To be considered for Title IV Financial Aid, Los Angeles Pierce College Financial Aid Office must have on file a valid Institutional Student Information Report (ISIR) by the last day of enrollment for a term/semester or by June 30 of the award year, whichever is earlier. Check the financial aid website at www.lapc.edu/financial-aid for deadlines. How to Apply To apply for Federal and State financial aid programs, complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.studentaid.gov. The FAFSA is an all inclusive application form that allows students to apply for all programs. Include Los Angeles Pierce College Federal School Code: 001226. VERIFICATION POLICY Federal verification requirements apply to the following programs: � Federal Pell Grant � Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant � Children of Fallen Heroes 302 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG � Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) � Federal Work-Study (FWS) � Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) � Federal Direct Loan � Cal Grant B and C � California Chafee Grant � California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program (CNG EAAP) If your application has been selected for verification, you will be required to provide additional documentation with a specific deadline. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the denial of financial aid. For verification deadline dates, visit the Financial Aid Office website. For the Federal Direct Loan Program, verification must be completed 30 working days prior to the last day of enrollment period to allow for loan processing time. Students whose applications are selected for verification may be paid on any corrected valid SAR/ISIR that is received within 120 days after the student's last day of enrollment. If an applicant does not complete verification by the established dead- line, all federal financial aid is forfeited for the award year. The Finan- cial Aid Office maintains the right to request additional information which may be required to process your application. Those may include but are not limited to: � IRS Tax Transcript � Verification of Non-Filing � Verification of Untaxed Income � Verification Worksheet � Social Security Verification � Permanent resident documents, if an eligible non-citizen English as a Second Language (ESL) Students taking only ESL classes must have a Student Educational Plan on file within the first semester. Audited Classes Students cannot receive financial aid, including the College Promise Grant, for enrollment in audited classes. No exceptions to this policy can be made. Enrollment at Other LACCD Colleges Consortium Agreements are in effect for all colleges within the Los Angeles Community College District. If you are attending more than one college within the District in the same academic period, payment will be based on all units taken. Please note that if you are in an extension appeal due to Satisfactory Academic Progress, you must be enrolled in approved units, meaning classes listed in your Student Educational Plan (SEP) you submitted with your appeal to the Finan- cial Aid Office. If you are enrolled in classes not listed in your SEP, the units will not be included in the calculation of approved units. For further information, please contact the Financial Aid Office. Tax Benefit Plan ahead � you may be able to take advantage of federal tax benefits for education. Most tax benefits have income limits; to learn more about each program, see IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Educa- tion, available at www.irs.gov or by calling 1-800-829-3676. Also, be sure to consult a professional tax advisor. In addition, funds from your IRA, 529 college savings plan or Cov- erdell Education Savings Account may be withdrawn without a tax penalty to pay for qualified education expenses. There's also a tax break if you use certain U.S. savings bonds to pay for college. You should consult a tax professional for further details or consult the following website: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p970.pdf Types of Financial Aid Available FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID GRANTS Federal PELL Grant Program The Federal PELL Grant Program is a federally funded program that provides assistance to undergraduate students who have not yet earned a baccalaureate or first professional degree and who demonstrate financial need. Awards are based on the student's Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and enrollment status. The EFC is calculated based on the information such as income and assets on the FAFSA. Due to the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), students have a maximum lifetime PELL Grant eligibility of 600% (12 full-time semesters). Students may view their percentage of PELL Grant eligibility by logging into www.nsldsfap.ed.gov. The "Lifetime Eligibility Used" percentage will be displayed in the "Grants" section of the webpage. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) The FSEOG is a federal grant program designed to supplement other sources of financial aid for students with exceptional need. FSEOG awards are based on financial need and fund availability. Since this is a limited funded program, priority will be awarded to students who are enrolled at least six (6) approved units at Los Angeles Pierce College. Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant A student whose parent or guardian was a member of the U.S. Armed Forces and died as a result of service performed in Iraq or Afghani- stan after September 11, 2001 may be eligible to receive the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant. Student eligibility requirements are: � Must be ineligible for a Federal PELL Grant due only to having less financial need than is required to receive PELL funds, and � Be under 24 years old, or � Enrolled in college at least part-time at the time of the parent's or guardian's death. The grant award is equal to the amount of a maximum PELL Grant for the award year � not to exceed the cost of attendance for that award year. Children of Fallen Heroes A student whose parent or guardian was a public safety officer and died while in the line of duty may be eligible to receive a Federal Pell Grant. Student eligibility requirements are: � The student was younger than 24 years of age at the time of the parent's or guardian's death 303 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 � The student was enrolled at an institution of higher education at the time of the parent's or guardian's death Since the U.S. Department of Education does not have a database, it is recommended that student contact the Financial Aid Office to determine eligibility. STATE FINANCIAL AID GRANTS To qualify for any of the state-funded grants, a student must be a California resident and be attending (or planning to attend) an eligible college in California. California College Promise Grant (formerly known as BOG Fee Waiver) This grant is offered by the California Community Colleges. Recipi- ents of the CA College Promise Grant are responsible for payment of health fees. You are eligible to apply for a College Promise Grant if you are: � A California resident, and � You are enrolled in at least one unit. The following are different categories of the College Promise Grant: a. At the time of enrollment you are a recipient of benefits under the TANF/CalWORKs Program (formerly AFDC), Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Program (SSI/SSP), or General Assistance Program (GA). You have certification from the California Department of Veterans Affairs or the National Guard Adjutant that you are eligible for a dependent's fee waiver. Docu- mented proof of benefits is required. b. You meet the income standards as established by the Board of Gov- ernors. Check with the Financial Aid Office if you qualify. c. You are qualified based on financial need as defined by the state. To qualify under this criteria, you will need to complete the FAFSA to determine if you have need based on state requirements. If you qualify after you have paid your enrollment fees, you should go to the college Business Office to request for a refund. Cal Grants The Cal Grant Program is a state-funded educational opportunity program to assist students in paying for a college education. There are entitlement awards as well as competitive awards. Deadline date: First deadline is March 2nd prior to the start of the academic year. A second deadline for community college applicants is September 2nd, but we highly recommend that applicants meet the March 2 deadline when more funding is available. Students must submit a GPA Verification and FAFSA by the appli- cable deadlines to the California Student Aid Commission. GPA verification for students enrolled within the Los Angeles Community College District will be electronically sent to the Commission by the deadline date for those who meet specific criteria. Contact your Financial Aid Office to see if you meet the criteria to have your GPA electronically sent and for other possible options. TYPES OF GRANTS AVAILABLE Entitlement Grants � Cal Grant A � provides grant funds to help pay for tuition/fees at qualifying institutions offering baccalaureate degree programs. If you receive a Cal Grant A but choose to attend a CA Community College first, your award will be held in reserve for up to three years until you transfer to a four-year college. � Cal Grant B � provides subsistence payments for new recipients. Payments are reduced accordingly for three-quarter and half-time enrollment for each payment period. Cal Grant B recipients who transfer to a tuition/fee charging school after completing one or two years at a community college may have their grant increased to include tuition and fees as well as subsistence. � Cal Grant Transfer Entitlement Award is for eligible CA Community College students who are transferring to a four-year college and are under age 28 as of December 31 of the award year. Competitive Grants � Cal Grant A and B awards are used for the same purpose as the A and B entitlement awards, except that they are not guaranteed and the number of awards is limited. � Cal Grant C recipients are selected based on financial need and vocational aptitude. Students must be enrolled in a vocational program at a California Community College, independent college, or vocational college, in a course of study lasting from four months to two years. Cal Grant C awards may not be used to pursue a four-year degree program, graduate study, or general education. Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) This grant is a supplemental grant awarded to students who have been disbursed a full-time Cal Grant and continue to be enrolled full-time. A maximum of $1,298 annually who enroll 12 through 14.99 units per term. A maximum of $4,000 annually who enroll 15 units per term. California Dream Act Students who have been determined to be AB540 by the Admissions Office, or students without a social security number, or has a DACA social security number AND are determined as California residents may apply for the Cal Grant Program by completing the California Dream Application at https://dream.csac.ca.gov. Submit the CA Dream Application between October 1st and March 2nd each year. For additional information and resources, contact the California Student Aid Commission at (888) 224-7268 or visit their website at www.csac.ca.gov/undocumented-dreamer-students. Chafee Grant The California Chafee Grant is a federal grant administered by the California Student Aid Commission and provides assistance to current or former foster youth to use for college courses or vocational school training. Eligible students may receive up to $5,000 per aca- demic year. To learn more about this program and to apply online, go to chafee.csac.ca.gov. FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS (AID THAT YOU HAVE TO PAY BACK) Please note that federal student loans are funds that you are borrowing from the federal government. This means that you will need to pay back the funds you have borrowed plus interest after you graduate from college or have ceased enrollment at the college. Students must meet all eligibility requirements to be eligible for student loans and must have an enrollment of at least half-time (6 approved units). Visit the Financial Aid Office website at www.lapc.edu/financial-aid/loans for more information about student loans. 304 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG LOS ANGELES PIERCE COLLEGE PARTICIPATES IN THE FOLLOWING LOAN PROGRAMS: Federal Direct Loan The Federal Direct Loan Program is a low-interest loan program for students and parents to help pay for the cost of higher education. Loans are made by the federal government. The following are types of Direct Loans: � Subsidized Loans - students must demonstrate financial need; no interest is charged while in school or attending college at least half-time. � Unsubsidized Loans - this loan is not based on financial need; interest is charged during all periods. � PLUS Loan - Unsubsidized loans for parents of dependent stu- dents and for graduate/professional students. Interest is charged during all periods. To learn more about the federal student loan program, visit the US Department of Education at www.studentaid.gov. PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT Federal Work-Study (FWS) The FWS program enables students to earn part of their financial aid award through part-time employment either on or off campus. To be eligible, a student must meet the eligibility requirements for federal financial aid and must maintain a good academic standing while employed under the program. Students must be enrolled in a mini- mum of six (6) approved units to be considered for this program. Scholarships Throughout the year, the college receives announcements on schol- arship opportunities. The focus of each scholarship is different; some require good grades, some require financial need, and some are awarded to students who are majoring in certain area of study. The Financial Aid Office has a listing of current scholarship offer- ings. Interested students are urged to go to the Financial Aid Office for information and assistance or visit the Scholarship website at www.lapc.edu/financial-aid/scholarships Summer Financial Aid Please contact the Financial Aid Office for more information and deadlines. How Financial Aid is Packaged Once the student's financial aid eligibility is established, an aid offer is provided which may be a combination of grants, work-study, and loan funds. Los Angeles Pierce College prefers to meet a student's need with a combination of grant(s) and self-help aid whenever possible. Students will be notified via email, if email was provided on the FAFSA, when Aid Offer Letters are available for review in the Student Information System. In addition, students will be referred to read the Award Guide on the Financial Aid website which explains the respon- sibilities of the student and provides information on each award. Disbursement Disbursement dates and deadlines are determined by Federal, State, District and/or institutional regulations and policies. Disbursement dates and amounts displayed in the Student Information System are estimates until actual disbursement are processed. Students who are new to the LACCD will receive information by mail and e-mail from BankMobile regarding the process to select their refund/disbursement preference. For more information about BankMobile, visit this link: http://disbursements.bmtx.com/refundchoices. AB540 students who currently have an open bank account or are eligi- ble to open an account will receive their funds electronically via their selected refund preference with BankMobile. All others will receive their disbursements by paper check. It is critical that students update their address on file with the Admis- sions & Records Office to ensure receipt of their Refund Selection Kit. If you have not received your Refund Selection Kit, contact the college Business Office. Students receiving a disbursement from a federal student loan have the right to cancel their loan disbursement. Contact the Financial Aid Office at the college for details on loan disbursement cancellation. Disbursements will be adjusted if enrollment is less than full-time. Supplemental disbursements occur throughout the academic year. If your enrollment status has increased and you are due an additional disbursement, it will be deposited to your account. Disbursements will be adjusted if enrollment increases or decreases. Payment for late-start- ing classes cannot be issued until the class begins. After the second disbursement date of each semester, no further award adjustments can be made based on late enrollment. (Exception: Short-term classes that start after the second disbursement date and winter classes.)* Students are encouraged to log in to the Student Information System (SIS) at mycollege.laccd.edu to view their disbursement information. Please note that if you have an approved Extension Petition, you must be enrolled in approved courses on your petition to receive payment. *Courses taken during the winter session are defined as short-term courses. Students must complete the short-term courses that start after the second disbursement date to be eligible for disbursement. CHANGE OF ENROLLMENT If your enrollment status changes during the semester, please inform the Financial Aid Office. Your financial aid award may be modified to reflect the correct number of units in which you were enrolled at the time of the second disbursement run. The adjustment of enroll- ment may cause an overpayment of financial aid funds. Repayment of financial aid funds is necessary if the adjustment of enrollment causes an overpayment. You must resolve your overpayment prior to receiving any additional financial aid. Having an overpayment of federal funds will prevent you from receiving federal financial aid from any institution. FEDERAL REFUND REQUIREMENTS � RETURN TO TITLE IV The student's eligibility for financial aid is based upon enrollment. The Higher Education Amendment of 1998 governs the Return of Title IV funds policy for a student who completely withdraws from a period of enrollment (i.e. semester). These rules assume that a student "earns" aid based on his/her semester enrollment. "Unearned" aid, other than Federal Work-Study, must be earned. Unearned aid is the amount of federal financial aid received that exceeds the amount the student has earned. Unearned aid may be subject to repayment. 305 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 STUDENTS WHO RECEIVE FINANCIAL AID AND TOTALLY WITHDRAW FROM ALL CLASSES MAY HAVE TO REPAY SOME OF THE FEDERAL FUNDS RECEIVED PRIOR TO WITHDRAWAL. All students receiving federal aid and then withdraw from the institu- tion may be subject to Return Regulations. The Financial Aid Office will calculate the amount of federal funds earned by the student up to the point of withdrawal and students will be billed and must repay any federal grant funds received but not earned. Failure to repay these funds will result in the denial of future federal financial aid at all colleges. Nonpayment of the unearned amount will be reported to the U.S. Department of Education for collection. The college is also required to report grant overpayments to the National Student Loan Data System. If you owe a repayment, students will be notified in writing by the Financial Aid Office. The student will have 45 calendar days from the date of notification to repay; otherwise, a hold will be placed on the academic and financial aid records which will prevent the student from receiving college services and will jeopardize future financial aid. It is advised that you contact the Financial Aid Office before with- drawing from all of your classes so you understand the results of your actions. For the refund policy on enrollment fees and non-resident tui- tion, please see the College Schedule of Classes or the College Catalog. Determining Financial Need Most financial aid awards are based on demonstrated financial need which is the difference between the Cost of Attendance (COA) and the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). COA minus EFC = Financial Need COST OF ATTENDANCE In order to treat all students equally, standardized budgets (Cost of Attendance) are established and applied to all applicants. This means all students with similar circumstances will receive the same allowance for tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, personal expenses and transportation. The cost of attendance is based on the Student Expenses and Resources Survey (SEARS) data and updated for three years of inflation using the estimated California Consumer Price Index. The following table shows the estimated 2024-2025 9-month Cost of Attendance budget for a CA resident student living at home with parents and a CA resident student living away from parents: LIVING WITH PARENTS 9 MONTHS LIVING AWAY FROM HOME 9 MONTHS Fees $ 1,238 $ 1,238 Books & Supplies $ 1,152 $ 1,152 Room & Board $ 9,360 $ 17,784 Transportation $ 1,026 $ 936 Personal Expenses $ 3,348 $ 3,924 Total $ 16,124* $ 25,034* *Non-resident tuition will be added to the Cost of Attendance for students who are non-residents. *Child care cost of $1,000 per academic year will be added to the Cost of Attendance to students who qualify. The financial aid office may also add the following to a student's cost of attendance, if applicable: � Non-resident tuition cost plus $46 enrollment fee � Child Care cost - $1,000 annually � Direct Loan Origination/Insurance Fee - determined annually EXPECTED FAMILY CONTRIBUTION Students and/or their parent(s) are expected to contribute something to the cost of higher education. Parental and/or student contribution (EFC) are determined from the information reported on the FAFSA and take into account the resources available such as income, assets, liabilities, size of family, number in college, taxes paid, etc. CHILD CARE EXPENSES This is an adjustment to the Cost of Attendance provided to students with unusual and reasonable expenses for dependent/child care up to a maximum of $1,000. If you are paying for Child Care expenses during the academic year, you must notify the Financial Aid Office in writing to request for an adjustment to your Cost of Attendance. TECHNICAL/VOCATIONAL EXPENSES Institutions may make adjustments for students in trade vocational programs that require supplies and equipment above and beyond the normal budgeted allowance for books and supplies. Some of these programs include: Registered Nursing, Physical Therapy, Animal Health Technology, Auto Mechanics, Photography and others where documentation is submitted to support the additional cost. HANDICAPPED EXPENSES As documented and in excess of amounts provided by other agencies. Student Rights and Responsibilities RIGHTS All Los Angeles Community College District students who apply for and receive financial aid have a right to the following: 1. Information on all financial assistance available, which includes all Federal, State, and institutional financial aid programs. 2. Application deadlines for all financial aid programs including deadlines for the submission of requested supporting documentation. 3. Specific information regarding enrollment fees, tuition and refunds due from students who withdraw from school prior to the end of the semester. 4. An explanation of how financial need is determined. This process includes establishing budgets for the costs of tuition and fees, books and supplies, room and board, transportation, personal and miscellaneous expenses, child care, etc., plus the student's income and assets, parental contribution, other financial aid (such as schol- arships) and so on. Financial need is determined by the Central Processor from the information provided on the FAFSA. 5. Knowledge of what resources are considered in the calculation of student need. 6. Knowledge of how a financial aid package is determined. 306 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG 7. An explanation of various programs awarded in the student's finan- cial aid package. If a student feels he/she has been treated unfairly, a reconsideration of the award may be requested. 8. An explanation regarding requests for repayment of funds. This situation occurs when students withdraw prior to the end of the semester. Students must receive a clear explanation of the program funds that do not need to be repaid as well as the portion of the grant aid that the student is required to repay. If the student received a loan, the student is informed about what the interest rate is, the total amount to be repaid, when the repayment is to begin, and the conditions of deferment and cancellation during loan counseling sessions. 9. Knowledge of how the Los Angeles Community College District determines whether students are making "satisfactory academic progress" and what happens if they are not. 10. Knowledge of what facilities are available for handicapped students. RESPONSIBILITIES Students must take responsibility for: 1. Reviewing and considering all information regarding the Los Angeles Community College District's academic programs prior to enrollment. 2. Having a valid Social Security Number (SSN) on file in the Admis- sions & Records Office for the purposes of receiving financial aid, reporting a Cal Grant Grade Point Average, loan deferments, etc. 3. Enrolling in an eligible program, which is defined as a Certificate, an Associate Degree (AA/AS), or a two-year academic Transfer Program that is acceptable for full credit toward a Baccalaureate Degree. Students must declare an eligible educational goal and major, and update changes with the Admissions & Records Office. Students who do not have a valid educational goal will be notified at the time of review of financial aid application and if students do not provide a valid educational goal with Admissions & Records will not be processed their financial aid. 4. Maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to receive financial aid and meeting with an academic counselor to develop or review an Educational Plan (The SAP Policy is also in the college catalog). 5. Promptly returning all additional documentation, verification, corrections, and/or new information requested by either the Finan- cial Aid Office or the agency or agencies to which an application was submitted. 6. Completing all required financial aid forms ACCURATELY AND COMPLETELY. If this is not done, aid could be delayed. Errors must be corrected before any financial aid can be received. Intentional misreporting of information and intentionally com- mitting fraud on application forms for financial aid is a violation of the law and is considered a criminal offense subject to penalties under the U.S. Criminal Code, and the denial of the student's application. Additionally, regulations require that all cases of suspected fraud emanating from misrepresentation, be reported to the Office of Inspector General. 7. Reading and understanding all financial aid forms and information. We advise students to retain copies of all documents submitted. 8. Choosing a home school to process financial aid. Students MAY NOT receive financial aid from more than one institution at the same time or periods of overlapping terms. 9. Notifying the appropriate entity (college, lender, California Student Aid Commission, U.S. Department of Education, etc.) of changes in your name, address, school enrollment status, or trans- fer to another college. 10. Repaying financial aid funds if it is determined that the student was ineligible to receive funds for any reason (i.e. Return to Title IV, overpayments, over-awards). 11. Performing the work that is agreed upon in accepting a work-study award. 12. Knowing and complying with the deadlines for application or reapplication for financial aid. 13. Knowing and complying with the Los Angeles Community Col- lege District Title IV Refund Policy. Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy I. GENERAL INFORMATION A. In accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended, the Los Angeles Community College District (herein- after referred to as LACCD) establishes the following Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). These Standards apply to all students who apply for and receive financial aid from the programs listed below. 1. Federal Pell Grant 2. Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant 3. Children of Fallen Heroes 4. Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) 5. Federal Work Study (FWS) 6. Federal Direct Stafford (student) and PLUS (parent) Loans 7. Cal Grant (A, B and C) 8. Student Success Completion Grant (SSCG) 9. California Chafee Grant 10. California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program (CNG EAAP) B. Professional Judgment may be exercised in applying these stan- dards in accordance with Section 479A of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended. C. Satisfactory Academic Progress standards are reasonable if they are the same as or stricter than the institution's standards for a student enrolled in the same educational program who is not receiving assistance under Title IV Federal Financial Aid programs. 307 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 D. Current and previous coursework earned at any college within the LACCD will be reviewed for compliance with the standards put forth in this policy. E. Consortium classes 1. All classes throughout the LACCD will be included when reviewing satisfactory academic progress. 2. For students aided under a consortium agreement with colleges outside the LACCD, consortium classes will be included during satisfactory academic progress review. Units will be used in the Maximum Time Frame calculation. The district Student Information System will collect, maintain, and utilize the number of outside units entered into the system for calculating student eligibility. F. Repeated coursework 1. Repeated coursework within the LACCD will be counted towards cumulative units attempted as defined in this chapter. 2. For repeated coursework for which a student has petitioned the college to utilize the most recent grade received, only the most recent grade received will be used in the cumu- lative Grade Point Average (GPA) calculation for SAP status determination. G. Transfer credits from institutions outside the LACCD will be used and evaluated for SAP standing. Transfer units are added when the institution receives transcripts from outside the dis- trict. College Admission & Records Offices (A&R) will record incoming transcripts. Units will be used for in the Maximum Time Frame calculation. H. Academic Renewal: All classes and all units that have been exempted from academic consideration (i.e., considered for academic standing, college GPA calculation, and as otherwise determined by the Admissions & Records Office) due to Aca- demic Renewal are still considered and counted towards all SAP standards for financial aid eligibility, unless otherwise affected by the Repeated Coursework rule noted above regarding GPA calculation (Section I.F.2). II. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS A. Students receiving financial aid must be enrolled in an eligible program. An eligible program is defined as: 1. An educational program that leads to an associate or bacca- laureate degree, or 2. An educational program which is at least a two-year academic transfer program that is acceptable for full credit toward a bachelor's degree, or 3. An educational program which leads to a certificate (exclud- ing Certificate of Accomplishment programs, formerly known as Skills Certificate programs) that prepares a student for gainful employment in a recognized occupation. III. SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) STANDARDS A. GPA: Maintenance of a 2.0 or higher cumulative GPA. B. Pace of Progression: Successful completion of a minimum of 67% of cumulative units attempted. Entries recorded in the students' academic record as Fail (F), Incomplete (INC), No Credit (NCR), No Pass (NP), Excused Withdrawal (EW), and/ or Withdrawal (W) are not considered to have been successfully completed and must compose 33% or less of the cumulative units attempted. Military Withdrawals (MW) are not included in the Pace of Progression calculation. C. Maximum Time Frame: Attempted less than 150% of the number of required units (also referred to as Scheduled Program Length) for the student's academic program (BA/BS degree, AA/AS degree, transfer program, or certificate program). 1. Remedial ESL and Basic Skills/Remedial classes are excluded from the Maximum Time Frame Standard unit limit when determining units attempted. These classes are classified in the Student Information System as remedial and/or Basic Skills classes. 2. In Progress (IP) grades count as attempted units in the maximum time frame Standard. IP grades are not used in the GPA calculation nor are they included in the Pace of Progression calculation. 3. Courses graded as MW (Military Withdrawal) are not counted in the Maximum Time Frame Standard calculation. D. External Degree: Students who have already earned an Associ- ate or higher degree outside of the LACCD will be disqualified. Students enrolled in the BA/BS program at West LA College may have an earned AA or AS degree and still meet SAP stan- dards in the LACCD for this item. IV. APPLICATION OF STANDARDS A. Satisfactory Academic Progress standing for financial aid students will be determined at the end of each payment period/ semester (Summer, Fall/Winter, or Spring). 1. Reports and postings (for individual students) are generated by district IT and reviewed by CFAU staff and the SAP workgroup. Issues and irregularities are resolved by the CFAU with consultation from the SAP subcommittee chair. 2. Notifications are sent by the CFAU. Notifications include contact information for the Financial Aid Offices at the cam- puses for students who have questions regarding their SAP status, petition process, or other SAP-related questions. B. Students who are disqualified from financial aid eligibility will be notified (by email) and receive information regarding the petition process. C. Students disqualified at any college in the LACCD, are disquali- fied at all colleges within the LACCD. D. Warning Status. Students will be placed on Warning Status if a) they were initially in good standing (based on SAP standards) or do not have a previously-calculated standing, and b) at the end of their most current semester they do not meet the GPA Standard and/or Pace of Progression Standard (see III.A. and III.B., above). Students will remain eligible for financial aid during their Warning Status, assuming they are not disqualified due to Maximum Time Frame or External Degree Standards (III.C. and III.D., above). Students will be sent a Warning Status notification. E. Advisory Letter. Students will receive an Advisory Letter at the end of the first semester where their number of units attempted 308 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG reaches or exceeds 75% or 100% of the academic program Maxi- mum Time Frame. F. Disqualification. Students will be disqualified if they have one or more of the following academic deficiencies: 1. Does not meet the GPA Standard (see III.A., above) follow- ing a semester of attendance for which the student was placed on Warning Status. 2. Does not meet the Pace of Progression Standard (see III.B., above) following a semester of attendance for which the student was placed on Warning Status. 3. Exceeds the Maximum Time Frame Standard (see III.C., above). 4. An Associate or higher degree has been earned outside the LACCD. Degree information received and posted to the dis- trict Student Information System during a semester will be evaluated for the following semester for potential disqualifi- cation. Students enrolled in the BA/BS program at West LA College may have an earned AA or AS degree and still meet SAP standards in the LACCD for this item. G. Reestablishing Eligibility. Students who have been disqualified or placed on Warning Status will reestablish financial aid eligi- bility for a future semester if they are determined to be meeting all SAP Standards. As SAP standing is determined at the end of each payment period/semester, a student can regain financial aid eligibility by improving their academic standing until they meet all SAP standards. V. SUMMER AND WINTER PERIODS OF ENROLLMENT A. Summer and Winter terms are included in the Satisfactory Academic Progress evaluation process. Summer is considered a separate semester for evaluation purposes. Winter term, as it is combined with Fall semester for disbursement purposes, is included with the Fall semester for SAP evaluation purposes. PETITION PROCESS TO APPEAL FOR FINANCIAL AID DISQUALIFICATION If the student is disqualified due to not meeting progress, the student may submit a petition for reinstatement or extension of financial aid. Please check the deadline dates at www.lapc.edu/financial-aid/dates. There is no retroactive submission of petition forms; therefore, you must apply for financial aid and submit all required documentation by the established deadlines. There are two (2) levels in the petition process at the college for each type of petition (reinstatement or extension). 1. The first-level petition must be reviewed by a committee. The result of the petition will generally be provided to the student in writing to the student's LACCD email within 30 calendar days. During peak periods, which are July through September and January through February, the review process may take up to six (6) weeks due to the number of petitions received. If the first-level petition is denied, the student may submit a second-level petition. The sec- ond-level petition form is available in the Financial Aid Office. 2. The second-level petition is reviewed by the Financial Aid Admin- istrator or designee. Students will be notified in writing to the student's LACCD email of the result of the petition within 14 calendar days. 3. An Administrative District Review may be initiated by the student who reasonably believes that the college, state, and/or federal guidelines were applied incorrectly, and therefore, adversely affected the student's financial aid status, rights and privileges. A request for Administrative Review can only be submitted until after denial from the first-level and second-level petitions. An Administrative Review is conducted by a district-appointed administrator. Administrative Reviews must be submitted before the end of the specified semester for which the student is requesting reinstatement or extension of financial aid eligibility. Fraud A student who attempts to obtain financial aid by fraudulent means will be suspended from financial aid for unsatisfactory conduct. The college will report such instances to local law enforcement agencies, to the California Student Aid Commission, to the Federal Government and the Office of Inspector General. Restitution of any financial aid received in such manner will be required. Other Information You Should Know STATE TAX OFFSET Students should be aware that state income tax refunds might be offset by the institution for repayment of financial aid funds if it is deter- mined the students were ineligible to receive funds, have defaulted on a student loan, or owe other debts to the school. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES In certain cases, a family's financial situation can change because of: � Death in the family � Separation or divorce � Loss of employment � Loss of non-taxable income or benefits In such cases, the student should contact the Financial Aid Office. FINANCIAL AID RELATED WEBSITES 1. Los Angeles Pierce College Financial Aid website � www.lapc.edu/financial-aid 2. FAFSA on the Web � www.studentaid.gov 3. Information about the Cal Grant Program � www.csac.ca.gov 4. California Student Aid Commission � www.csac.ca.gov 5. National Student Loan Database System � www.nsldsfap.ed.gov TELEPHONE NUMBERS 1. Los Angeles Pierce College Financial Aid and Scholarships Office (818) 719-6428 2. Los Angeles Pierce College Veterans Office (818) 710-3316 3. California Student Aid Commission (888) 224-7268 4. Central Loan Administration Unit (Perkins Loan) (800) 822-5222 5. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA Benefits) (800) 827-1000 6. Federal Student Aid Information Center (800) 433-3243 309 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 Foster Youth Program � Location: Student Services Building, 2nd floor, EOPS Office � Website: www.lapc.edu/student-services/spr/eops � Email: guardianscholars@piercecollege.edu Foster Youth Program (commonly known as Guardian Scholars Program) is a support program designed as a one-stop center to help current or former foster youth achieve their educational goals. The goal of the program is to improve college access, increase retention and graduation rates, and improve student learning and development. The Guardian Scholars Program provides the following services: � Meet with a designated Guardian Scholars staff in the Financial Aid Office � Assist with the college admission application � Matriculation process: Assessment, Orientation and Counseling � Meet with a designated Guardian Scholars Counselor to develop student educational plan � Assist and process with the financial aid application (FAFSA) and the Chafee application � Refer to support programs such as EOPS, CAFYES, DSPS, Tutoring, etc. � Participate in life skills workshops such as money management, transfer information, career services, health education, financial literacy, employment readiness, etc. Transfer Information The Transfer Center The Los Angeles Pierce College Transfer Center has resources and ser- vices to make the transition from Pierce to a four-year college/univer- sity easier. Representatives from many public and private universities, including but not limited to; UCLA, CSUN, CSU Los Angeles and UC San Diego meet regularly with prospective students to advise them regarding admissions, program planning, and other support services. For additional information on these and other transfer-related activities, visit the Transfer Center on the first floor of the Student Services Building. You can also contact the Transfer Center at (818) 710-2907 and view all transfer related information online at www.lapc.edu/transfer. Transfer Information Websites As a student, the Internet is one of your most important resources for transfer information. We have workstations available to use in our center if you don't have internet access at home. So, please stop by and let us help. You can use the Los Angeles Pierce College Transfer website as a por- tal to transfer information for the UCs, CSUs, private and out-of-state colleges and universities: Los Angeles Pierce College Transfer Website: www.lapc.edu/transfer University of California Transfer Information: admission.universityofcalifornia.edu California State University Transfer Information: www.calstate.edu/apply/transfer California Private and Independent Transfer Information: www.aiccu.edu Which courses transfer? CALIFORNIA PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS: UC AND CSU Assist: As a prospective transfer student, it is important to make sure that the community college courses you take are acceptable to the university for transfer credit. Assist is California's official statewide repository of transfer information for the California State University and University of California systems. Website � www.assist.org. LOS ANGELES PIERCE COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY TRANSFER PARTNERSHIPS Pierce has transfer partnerships with universities through the following programs: � UC Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) - Guarantee your transfer to UC Davis, Irvine, Merced, Riverside, Santa Barbara, or Santa Cruz � UCLA � Transfer Alliance Program (TAP)/Honors Transfer Program: � UCLA CCCP Scholars - meet with a UCLA peer mentor in the Transfer Center and attend weekend and summer pro- gramming to help you meet your goals. � CSU Associate Degree Transfer (ADT) get a degree at Pierce and transfer to a CSU campus with ease. � CSU Local Priority admission to CSUN and CSULA � Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) with private & out of state universities: Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount University, Arizona State University, Western Oregon University For more information on these programs and how to transfer from Pierce, please visit www.lapc.edu/student-services/transfer-center. DEVELOP AN EDUCATIONAL PLAN The most important action you can take to ensure success is to meet early with a Los Angeles Pierce College Counselor and develop an edu- cational plan. This plan will include courses you need to meet transfer requirements. Using and updating an educational plan throughout your attendance at Pierce will ensure the most direct path to transfer and earning a baccalaureate degree. THE COUNSELING CENTER Prospective transfer students are encouraged to meet with a counselor in order to develop and refine educational plans and career goals. Each counselor is well-equipped to assist students in planning trans- fer-related coursework. In addition to serving students in the Counseling Center, the Counseling Department Faculty offer a number of courses as part of the College's curriculum. These courses include skill-building activities to enhance program planning, personal and professional development, study and time management skills, and strategies for problem solving and decision-making. Please refer to the Counseling 310 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG Department section of Course Descriptions in this catalogue for additional information. The Counseling Center is located on the first floor of the Student Services Building. GENERAL EDUCATION AGREEMENTS The California State University and the University of California systems have developed system-wide general education agreements which enable community college transfer students to complete lower division courses that satisfy general education requirements at many CSUs and UCs. SeeLAPCCSUGECertifiedPlanandIGETC2024-2025onpages30and32. Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure the articulation information for the California State Universities and the University of California institu- tions are accurate, including the CSU GE and IGETC areas. However, this information is unofficial and should be checked against the official information found on the ASSIST website at www.assist.org. TRANSFER CENTER STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES The following Student Learning Outcomes have been developed to inform students about the goals of the program: � Los Angeles Pierce College students with the goal of transfer will know the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) minimum transfer requirements. � Los Angeles Pierce College students with the goal of transfer will know at least two web based transfer resources. � Los Angeles Pierce College transfer students will know of the two general education patterns to the UC & CSU. � Los Angeles Pierce College students will know how and where to seek help with transfer applications. Special Instructional Programs Honors Program The Los Angeles Pierce College Honors Transfer Program is designed for serious, motivated students. The program offers approximately 12 academically enriched general education courses each semester. These courses are challenging and enhance the academic skills necessary for successful transfer. Classes are limited to approximately 30 students, offering maximum interaction with faculty and peers. For further information see the current Schedule of Classes, visit the Honors webpage at www.lapc.edu/academics/honors or call (818) 719-6455. The Honors Transfer Program office is located in ALDER 1001, but applications are submitted online. ELIGIBILITY High school graduates need a 3.0 cumulative GPA, and continuing college students need a 3.25 GPA in all UC transferable course work including nine (9) or more UC-transferable units. TRANSFER Honors Transfer Program students successfully transfer to colleges and universities across the country. However, we have a special arrangement with the UCLA and UCI College of Letters and Sciences Transfer Alliance Program (TAP). Students who complete at least 60 units in a pattern that satisfies both the UC lower division and major course requirements, complete at least 15 Honors units by taking five (5) formal Honors classes within these 60 units, and maintain an over- all grade point average of 3.25 in UC-transferable units, are eligible for TAP certification. Satisfactory completion of the above gives students priority con- sideration for admission to UCLA's and UCI's College of Letters & Sciences with Junior Standing. We belong to a statewide honors organization which constantly negotiates agreements with colleges and universities; please check www.lapc.edu/academics/honors for updates. APPLICATION To be admitted to the Honors Transfer Program you must have com- pleted 9 units of UC transferable coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.25 in all UC transferable coursework. Students coming directly from high school must have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0. Eligible students should file a completed Honors Transfer Program applica- tion through the honors' website at www.lapc.edu/academics/honors. If a student's high school or other college transcripts are not on file in Admissions, they may be e-mailed to lapc-honors@laccd.edu or submitted to the Honors Transfer Program office in ALDER 1001 at the time of application. Once submitted to the HTP office, they become part of the student's application. It is the student's respon- sibility to see the college has an official transcript sent directly from any other institution attended to ensure proper credit is received for outside coursework. Note: The Honors Office must have access to all official transcripts from all institutions and official AP scores. Check with your counselor to see if your records are on file in the Admissions & Records office. All official transcripts must be sent directly from the high school, university, college, College Board, etc. to the: Admissions & Records Office Student Services Building Los Angeles Pierce College 6201 Winnetka Ave., Woodland Hills, CA 91371 PROGRAM BENEFITS Students in the Honors Transfer Program receive special Honors counseling. Those who complete the program and become certified receive recognition on both the transcript and at graduation. All Honors students also receive the special services provided by mem- bership in the UCLA Transfer Alliance Program, whether or not they are planning to transfer to UCLA. These services include a free UCLA College Library card, tickets to cultural events, and much more. Distance Education Los Angeles Pierce College offers different modalities to best meet stu- dents schedules. Below are the different modalities in which students can choose to take courses. Online Live - Real-time meetings are required as scheduled. All course activity is online. Online - No real-time meetings are required. All course activity is online and there are no scheduled activities. Hybrid (Partially Online) - Some in-person meetings are required as scheduled. The remainder of the class is online. 311 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 HyFlex (In person or online live) - Students can choose to join the scheduled class session online or in person. In person - All meetings occur at the scheduled time and location, many of these courses are web enhanced wherein homework and assignments will be submitted online. For students who do not have access to a computer, the LA Pierce College Library offers an open lab where students can access their online courses. Visit the LA Pierce College Library website at http://library.piercecollege.edu. PierceOnline Online courses at Los Angeles Pierce College provide the opportunity for students to take classes in a setting other than the traditional face- to-face classroom. Using the SIS portal, students log into their courses. All course materials and class activities can be accessed online 24/7 to meet your needs while you are at home, your office, or on a trip. With the use of innovative course delivery software, our professors deliver quality instruction at a distance. Students can access the PierceOnline office through the Faculty/Staff Resource Center. PACE (Program for Accelerated College Education) Program for Accelerated College Education (PACE) is an acceler- ated college program designed to provide students with the ability to graduate in two years. PACE coursework meets transfer guidelines and is accelerated to fit into 8-week quarters. PACE is designed to allow students to earn an associate's degree and be ready to transfer in two years by attending classes one or two nights a week or taking classes online. There are five PACE sessions offered in a school year: two in the fall, two in the spring, and one in the summer. PACE scheduling follows the IGETC and CSU GE certified plan that can be applied to any Associate Degree for Transfer program. PACE CHARACTERISTICS: � Earn an associate's degree in two years or less � 8-week hybrid or fully online classes � Study for only two classes at a time while maintaining full time status during the semester � PACE students have access to a dedicated counselor to assist with their transfer and graduation path � PACE offers a guided pathway toward completion � Call today to fast track your education with PACE (818) 719-6485 Los Angeles Pierce College Extension Program Los Angeles Pierce College Extension is the educational outreach program of the College offering community and continuing education classes as well as cultural and recreational activities through the Office of Community Services on a not-for-credit basis. Community Education provides a community-based program, oppor- tunities for personal and professional development, skill improvement and upgrading, cultural enrichment and recreational enjoyment for all ages, emphasizing lifelong personal and professional growth. These activities are offered in addition to Los Angeles Pierce College's instructional program and are not academic equivalents of regular credit classes or prerequisites for the traditional college program. This program is supported by participant fees and receive no direct general purpose tax funds. Through the Extension Program, the College hopes to serve your interests, and through you, our whole community. For a calendar of activities or further information, please contact the Extension Services Office at (818) 719-6425 or visit www.lapc.edu/extension. Economic and Workforce Development Services that we deliver to our community include but are not limited to the following: � CONTRACT EDUCATION offers customized quality classes and timely workshops to local business and industry on campus or at the workplace. This program can augment a company's current train- ing program or develop specialized classes in areas such as Time Management, Conflict Resolution, Leadership Training and ESL to meet professional needs. � We offer more than 200 online classes and online career training For more information please visit www.lapc.edu/extension. ENCORE Older Adult Education Program Encore is a Los Angeles Pierce College lifelong learning program that provides meaningful educational opportunities designed and paced specifically to serve mature adults in our community. The program offers free noncredit classes and volunteer opportunities. Classes range from arts & humanities, health & fitness, to finance and technology. The program recognizes the importance of intellectual pursuits, critical thinking, creative expression, health maintenance, skill development, and cultural awareness. Encore noncredit classes generally meet for 2 hours a week for 15 weeks. Students enrolled in Encore classes are Pierce College students in a noncredit program. For a schedule of classes or further information, please con- tact the Encore office at (818) 710-2561 or visit our website at www.lapc.edu/encore. Foster and Kinship Care Education Los Angeles Pierce College Foster and Kinship Care Education (FKCE) offers continuing education for foster parents, relative care- givers, adoptive parents, and others who are interested in fostering or adopting children. Classes that satisfy "D" rate (to provide care for children who exhibit severe and persistent emotional and behavioral problems in a family home setting) and "F" rate (to provide care to medically fragile children in a family home setting) requirements are offered, as well as D, F, and W (Whole Family Foster Home) rate pre-service training for foster parents or relative caregivers to gain certification in those categories. For a schedule of events or further information, please contact the Foster and Kinship Care Education office at (818) 710-2937, and for information on Foster Youth Success Initiative (FYSI) or Guardian Scholars, please call (818) 710-2937, or visit www.lapc.edu/extension. 312 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG International Education Program: Study Abroad Classes Los Angeles Pierce College offers short-term study abroad programs specifically designed for community college students. Study abroad programs are a one-of-a-kind experience and will not only offer exciting travel opportunities for students, but worthwhile academic ones as well! These faculty-led programs will challenge you to see the world in a new perspective, while simultaneously encountering different language and cultures. Opportunities for study feature a summer program in Marine Biology in Mexico. Call (818) 719-6444 for further information. Educational Support Services Disabled Students Programs and Services (Academic Accommodations Center) Los Angeles Pierce College affirms its programs and activities are avail- able to all qualified persons without regard to disability. The College is also subject to Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The primary objective of the Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS) is to provide accommodations for students with a disability in campus programs and activities to the greatest extent feasible. The ability of each student with a disability to function independently in the collegiate environ- ment is the ultimate goal. Individuals with a disability may receive support services and accom- modations from the DSPS program at Los Angeles Pierce College. Stu- dents with physical, visual, hearing, mental health, and other health impairments as well as learning and intellectual disabilities are served. For further information or an initial appointment, contact the DSPS Office at (818) 719-6430. Our email address is aac@piercecollege.edu. We are located in the Student Services Building, room 48175. DSPS determines reasonable accommodations on a case-by-case basis, by reviewing disability verification documentation and an interac- tive process with each student. Following are some of the supportive services which may be approved as reasonable accommodations, depending on the nature of the student's educational limitations, to assure access to educational activities at Los Angeles Pierce College: � ASL Interpreters for the deaf � Note-taking assistance � Priority registration � On-campus transportation (shuttle service) � Academic & personal counseling � Closed Captioned TV (C.C.T.V.) � Print magnifier � Testing proctoring � Alternative media/Assistive technology � Specially adapted software technology � Adaptive furniture DISPUTES A. Appeal of Eligibility Determination 1. If, upon reviewing the disability documentation submitted by the student, the DSPS professional staff determines that the student is ineligible under the provisions of Section I, Subsec- tion E of Los Angeles Community College District Administra- tive Regulation E-100, the student may request a meeting with the DSPS Coordinator to appeal the ineligibility decision. The student may also appeal the ineligibility decision to the College ADA Coordinator. a. The student must submit an appeal to the College ADA Coordinator within ten (10) working days of receiving the notice of ineligibility. b. The College ADA Coordinator will consult with the DSPS Coordinator and the Counselor to determine accommodation eligibility. c. The College ADA Coordinator will send a written response and rationale to the student within ten (10) calendar days of receipt of the appeal. 2. If the College ADA Coordinator upholds the ineligibility decision, the student may appeal to the DSPS Review Commit- tee within ten (10) working days of receipt of the College ADA's Coordinator's response and rationale. The District Disabled Student Accommodation Review Committee will consist of District DSPS Coordinators present at the scheduled monthly District DSPS Coordinator's meeting, the Vice President of Student Services Officer assigned as DSPS liaison or his/her designee, the Vice President of Student Services Officer of the college from where the appeal originated or his/her designee, and the District ADA Coordinator. a. Within ten (10) working days of the appeal, the District DSPS Review Committee will consider the appeal at the next scheduled District DSPS Coordinator's meeting, or special meeting convened for the purpose of hearing the appeal, and make a recommendation to the President of the college where the student is in attendance. b. The recommendation will be determined by majority vote of the District DSPS Review Committee. c. The District DSPS Review Committee will provide the college President with written notification, including the rationale for its decision, within ten (10) working days of its decision. The College President will provide the student of his or her final decision within ten (10) working days of receipt of the DSPS Review Committee's recommendation. 3. If the student is not satisfied with the College President's deci- sion, the student has the right to file an Unlawful Discrimina- tion Complaint with the District's Office for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility. The student may utilize this option at any time during the process. B. Appeal of Accommodations If a student who has been determined to be eligible for services (under E-100 Section I, Subsection E) believes that the college is not providing support services and/or academic accommodations, and the matter cannot be resolved informally, the student may file a 313 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 complaint, which will be evaluated by the Academic Accommodations Review Committee. 1. Informal Resolution When a dispute arises over DSPS recommended support services and/or academic accommodations, all parties are required to seek informal resolution, before proceeding formally. In an effort to resolve the matter informally, the DSPS Coordinator will assist the student by scheduling a good faith interactive meeting with the person(s) involved in the dispute, as well as the person's immediate supervisor, the corresponding Dean of Academic Affairs, and a DSPS professional. 2. Formal Resolution If the matter cannot be resolved informally, the student may file a written request for a formal hearing of the college Academic Accommodations Review Committee. a. The college Academic Accommodations Review Committee will consist of the Vice President of Academic Affairs or his/her representative, the Vice President of Administration or his/her representative, the Vice President Student Services or his/her representative, the Department Chair or designated represen- tative for the student's program of study, the College ADA Coordinator, and the DSPS Coordinator or designee, who will function in the hearing as a consultant and will vote only in the event of a tie. b. The College ADA Coordinator, or other designated college official with knowledge of support services and accommoda- tions, may make an interim decision, if necessary, regarding provision of support services or accommodations pending the final resolution of the dispute. c. The Academic Accommodations Review Committee will meet within ten (10) working days of the request and review the request in accordance with the following procedures: I. During the formal hearing process, the committee chair shall coordinate the conduct of the hearing. II. The student and/or a representative shall present the written request to the DSPS Coordinator and attend the meeting of the Academic Accommodations Review Committee. The representative may not be an attorney. III. The person denying the DSPS approved support services or accommodations and/or his/her departmental representa- tive shall present written reasons why the DSPS-approved support services or accommodations were not provided and shall attend the meeting of the Academic Accommodations Review Committee. IV. The committee will make a determination regarding the "reasonableness" of the support service(s) or accommoda- tion(s), and recommend an equitable solution, if necessary. V. The committee will deliberate outside of the presence of the student and the person denying the support services or accommodations and their representatives. VI. The hearing shall be closed and confidential. d. The committee will, within five (5) working days after the hear- ing, inform the student in writing of the committee's decision. I. Copies of the committee's decision will be placed in the stu- dent's file and sent to the College President, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Vice President of Student Services, as well as to the individual, if appropriate, who denied the support service (s) or accommodation(s), by the Academic Accommodations Review Committee Chair. II. Academic Accommodations Review Committee Formal Hearing Request forms are available in the DSPS Office, Student Services Office, and/or College Ombudsperson. 3. Appeal a. If the student is dissatisfied with the Academic Accommoda- tions Review Committee decision, the student may appeal to the College President. b. The student may also file a formal discrimination complaint with the District's Office of Diversity Programs, who will then follow the established steps outlined in Chapter XV of the Board Rules. DISABLED STUDENTS PROGRAM AND SERVICES SERVICE AREA OUTCOMES The following Service Area Outcomes have been developed to inform students about the goals of the program: 1. Students with declared majors will demonstrate a level of confi- dence choosing an educational goal and follow the recommenda- tions of their Special Services counselor taking the appropriate classes to achieve their academic goals. 2. AAC students will: � Describe their disability, strengths, and effective accommodations � Understand and adhere to the Special Services policies and procedures � Actively participate in counseling sessions and initiate accom- modation requests in a timely manner � Identify resources available on campus to enhance development and academic performance 314 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG Extended Opportunity Program and Services (EOPS) and Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education (CARE) and NextUp (formerly known as CAFYES) Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) is a state- funded comprehensive support system which recruits and assists qualified low-income students who have educational disadvantages. EOPS provides academic counseling, career exploration, tutoring, priority registration, book services and workshops aimed at helping students succeed in college. Participants must be full-time students or students in DSPS that are part-time. EOPS participants who are single parents with dependent children may receive additional services if they qualify for C.A.R.E. (Cooperative Agencies Resources for Education). Qualified current or former foster youth whose dependency was estab- lished or continued by the court (on or after a student's 13th birth- day) receive assistance balancing their academic needs with financial assistance and additional support services from the NextUp program (formerly CAFYES). STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES EOPS/CARE/NextUp It is the goal of EOPS to ensure that each participating student is proficient in understanding the complexities of higher education, knowledgeable of resources necessary to be successful in their studies, and to develop a "road map" to achieving their objectives. EOPS evaluates its effectiveness in providing quality services by identifying student learning outcomes and assessing the extent to which students have achieved those outcomes. Counseling � Students will: 1. Identify their career objective 2. Identify their academic objective 3. Follow their Student Educational Plan developed in conjunc- tion with their EOPS counselor Support Services � EOPS students participating in the program orientation will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the program's requirements and philosophies as measured by a score of 75% or better on a post orientation survey. EOPS is located in the Student Services Building, 2nd floor, Room 48235. Office hours are Monday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., and Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CalWORKs Program The CalWORKs Program serves eligible students enrolled at the college who currently receive CalWORKs for themselves and at least one child under the age of eighteen, and who have or are in the process of developing a GAIN welfare-to-work plan which includes education as an approved activity, or are County-referred for post-employment or post-time limits services. The program offers a variety of supportive services designed to help students meet their welfare-to-work and educational goals in order to achieve academic success, career advancement and economic self-suffi- ciency, including: � Priority registration � Orientation � Case management and coordination with GAIN services � Books, supplies, fees, tools and uniforms, in partnership with the Los Angeles County GAIN program � Work-study opportunities � Academic counseling � Individualized Student Education Plan for the entire academic program � Completion and certification of required GAIN and Child Care Resource Center forms and documents � Informative workshops � Referrals to community agencies for legal, personal counseling, domestic violence and social services � Calculators and Laptops loan services The CalWORKs office is located in the Student Services Building, second floor, room 48235. For more information and appointments call (818) 719-6400. Our email address is: calworks@piercecollege.edu CalWORKs Student Learning Outcomes Students will: � Develop a Student Educational Plan (SEP) that will facilitate an effective integration into the workforce � Find and utilize effectively available on/off campus resources needed to become self-sufficient � Students placed in CalWORKs work study program will demon- strate essential workplace skills � Students who attend and participate in CalWORKs workshops will be able to develop personal resumes and learn the process to apply to a four-year institution High School Outreach and Recruitment The High School Outreach and Recruitment Department (OAR) assists students and the Los Angeles Pierce College community in general, in achieving their higher education goals, by providing infor- mation and access to the academic and student services programs avail- able at Pierce. Through outreach efforts at our local feeder high schools and our surrounding communities, the OAR department facilitates the transition from high school to college by proving information regarding vocational, certificate, degree and transfer program options. The OAR department assists students with: � Admission Application � Financial Aid applications � Concurrent enrollment for high school students Additionally, the OAR department works with the Student Success Committee to support its programs and initiatives including the sum- mer Bridge Program and learning communities. 315 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 International Student Services Location: SSB 48271 (2d Floor) Phone: (818) 719-6417 Email: intlstu@piercecollege.edu Website: www.lapc.edu/student-services/spr/iss International Student Services (ISS) provides comprehensive service to prospective and current F-1 Visa international students. The program has students enrolled from over 40 countries around the world. Services include: � Application advisement and processing � F-1 status advisement � Academic and personal counseling � New student orientation � Specialized workshops � Student engagement activities In order to maintain F-1 status, international students are required to meet obligations set by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Some of these obligations are: � Complete a full-course load (minimum 12 units) every fall and spring semester, a minimum of 9 units must be in-person or hybrid courses that meet on campus. � Maintain a valid passport and I-20A Form � Refrain from unauthorized employment � Report a change of residence within 10 days of the change If an international student has questions about maintaining status, they should contact a Designated School Official (DSO) in the ISS Office. Per LACCD Board Rule 2309.30, international students are required to enroll in the district mandated health insurance policy. Students are billed by the college every fall and spring semester. Library The Pierce Library provides access to research materials -- including books & ebooks, article databases, and streaming media -- to support the college's curriculum and our community's lifelong learning goals. Located on the second floor of the Library Learning Crossroads Build- ing, the library includes areas conducive to both group and quiet study, access to computers and printing, and friendly Library faculty and staff here to assist with finding, using, and evaluating information sources. The library website, http://library.piercecollege.edu, provides convenient access to our resources, research support pages (called "Subject Guides"), access and lending policies, and links to both virtual and in-person support options. Librarians offer real-time help 24/7 through online chat, and offer both in-person and Zoom based support during the Library's regular hours. Individuals looking for a strong foundation in research and critical thinking skills to support their college coursework, employment, or lifelong goals, should consider enrolling in one of the Library Science courses noted on our website. To learn more about the Library's resources and services, please visit our website or call us at (818) 719-6409. Center for Academic Success (CAS) The Center for Academic Success is committed to helping students in need of academic support acquire the skills and tools necessary to meet their individual academic goals. All tutoring services are free to currently enrolled Los Angeles Pierce College students. Tutorial Program (LLC 5130) The Center for Academic Success offers free individual tutoring, group tutoring, and workshops in a variety of subject areas. English and math tutoring are offered all day long, and other subjects and schedules vary by semester. Come into the CAS, call us, or check our website to obtain tutoring schedules for all subjects. No appointments are necessary. English and ESL sessions are 30 minutes in length and are scheduled on a first come/first serve basis. Check the CAS website, call (818) 719-6414, or stop by the tutoring center (LLC 5130) for more information. Center for Academic Success Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Location: Library/Learning Crossroads Building, Room 5130 Website: www.lapc.edu/academic-services/academic-success Veterans Services Veterans applying for Veterans Administration (VA) educational benefits are responsible for knowing the VA eligibility requirements and regulations. Eligibility for VA educational benefits can only be determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Administration. Before we can certify enrollment for benefits, veterans must meet the college admission requirements and supply the college with copies of official transcripts from previous training. The amount of VA educational benefits awarded is determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Administration and is based on monthly enrollment for specific courses which are applicable toward an approved VA objective. Monthly rates may be accessed at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/ Please note that the application process for Veterans Educational Benefits is different for new students who have never received benefits before from continuing/transfer students who have already initiated benefits. Applications for benefits may be obtained from the U.S. Veterans Administration or from the Veterans Office. Please email the Veterans Services at pierce-veteran@piercecollege.edu. NEW VETERAN STUDENT CHECKLIST: 1. Apply to Los Angeles Pierce College at www.lapc.edu. 2. Apply for VA Educational Benefits by completing the VA 22-1990 form online at http://www.benefits.va.gov. 3. Apply for financial aid at www.studentaid.gov. Make sure Los Angeles Pierce College federal school code (001226) is included in your FAFSA. 4. Schedule an appointment with a Veterans counselor in the Counseling Office. Appointments must be made one week in advance. Please note that a student educational plan must be completed by the Veterans Counselor and be noted in the Student Information System. Please email all required paperwork to pierce-veteran@piercecollege.edu in order to be certified for VA benefits as listed below. 316 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG a. Student Educational Plan signed by you and the coun- selor. Note: Short term classes affect the VA monthly benefits. Please check with the Veterans representative for additional information. b. Chapter 33 applicants must submit a Certificate of Eligibility letter awarded by the VA. This form is automatically sent to your home of record upon exiting the military. If you need to request an additional copy, call the VA Office at (888) 442-4551. c. Submit a copy of your DD-214 (copy member-4) or NOBE (Notice of Basic Eligibility DD-2384). d. Complete the Veterans Statement of Obligation and Responsibilities form. Make copies of all submitted documents for your own records. 5. To continue receiving benefits, visit the Veterans Services every semester to request VA Enrollment Certification. 6. You need to verify your attendance every month if you are receiving one of the benefits listed below. You may verify your enrollment by calling VA at (877) 823-2378 or online at https://www.gibill.va.gov/wave/index.do a. Montgomery GI Bill� - Active Duty b. Montgomery GI Bill� - Selected Reserve c. REAP d. VRAP VETERANS EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS � Chapter 33 (Post 9/11 GI Bill�) � this is the most comprehen- sive educational benefit package since the original Montgomery GI Bill�. The Post 9/11 GI Bill� is for individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11, 2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30 days. You must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill�. This program will pay for enrollment fees (non-resident tuition is not eligible) and other mandatory fees, a monthly housing allowance, and an annual books and supplies stipend for eligible individuals. GI Bill� is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Vet- erans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. � Chapter 1606 � this program provides benefits for members of the Selected Reserve and National Guard who enlisted, re-enlisted, or extended their enlistment for a period of six years after July 1, 1985. � Chapter 1607 � this program provides benefits for members of the Selected Reserve who have established eligibility for 1606 of the MGIB and have been called to active duty since September 11, 2001. � Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation) � this is an educational assistance program that is available to disabled veterans who are in need of vocational rehabilitation. � Chapter 35 (Dependents or Spouses) � this is an educational program is designed to provide benefits for dependents or spouses of veterans. OVERPAYMENT TO VETERANS The U.S. Department of Veterans Administration holds veterans liable for overpayments received for reasons including failure to notify the VA and the college's Veterans Office when they drop a class or receive an incomplete grade. Veterans who receive overpayment should promptly notify the VA and the college's Veterans Office. The VA allows veterans to drop classes prior to the "last day to drop classes" as published in the Schedule of Classes. Veterans who drop classes after this date must provide the VA with a letter of explanation. Any change of program or enrollment status must first be approved by the Veterans counselor in the Counseling Office and must be reported to the Veter- ans Office at Los Angeles Pierce College. CREDIT FOR MILITARY SERVICE Los Angeles Pierce College grants up to six (6) units of credit for military service. Credit will also be granted for some classes at special military schools. Granting of credit for elective units is based on the veteran's compliance with the following guidelines: 1. Current enrollment. 2. Having served at least 181 days in the Armed Services. 3. Presenting a copy of military separation paper (DD214) when petitioning for elective credit. TUTORING Veterans needing tutoring services must first obtain prior approval from the U.S. Veterans Administration. Tutors must be approved by the VA in order for a veteran to become eligible for reimbursement for the costs of tutorial services. Veterans contact the Los Angeles Pierce College's Veterans Office for the necessary reimbursement forms. 317 Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 Counseling Services The Counselors at Los Angeles Pierce College are trained in educa- tional planning, career planning and personal counseling. Our goal is to help students clarify their goals, realistically evaluate their own strengths and challenges, and learn to develop their planning skills to achieve their goals. Here is what we hope to accomplish with you, depending on your circumstances and needs: � CLARIFICATION OF ISSUES/PROBLEMS - The student will under- stand and/or articulate the need to define clearly the issue to be addressed in Counseling before moving on to the next steps. � REALISTIC SELF-ASSESSMENT - The student will be aware of and/or able to critically evaluate and integrate personal factors (interest, potential, limitations, financial, family, etc.) that may influence educational/career decisions. � EDUCATIONAL PLANNING - The student will be aware of and/or able to create and put into effect a plan of action to reach an educa- tional goal (integrating self knowledge, program demands and requirements). EDUCATIONAL PLANNING AND COUNSELING Counselors assist students in setting educational goals, exploring alternatives, making decisions regarding their academic programs and understanding the effects of having made these decisions. Short-term courses are also offered to help students develop skills in such areas as decision making and personal development. Counselors are located in the main Counseling Office in the Stu- dent Services Building. Appointments may be made online at www.lapc.edu/student-services/counseling/appointments. Faculty advisors, located in most departments, will also help students with academic and career information related to courses and programs in the academic area of the advisor. COUNSELING COURSES (FORMERLY PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSES) Counseling courses are the instructional component of the Coun- seling Department. These courses are taught by Los Angeles Pierce College Counselors, and provide students with foundational skills in college success strategies, career and/or major exploration, educational planning, and more. Students will learn the various aspects of the Los Angeles Pierce College campus including: student activities, support programs and resources, and campus policies and procedures. Coun- seling courses are offered in various formats, including: eight-week sessions, online only, as one element of a cohort (e.g. summer Bridge Program), as well as traditional semester length courses. For more information regarding Counseling courses, please visit the official course descriptions within this catalog. For future course offerings, please view the Los Angeles Pierce College schedule of classes for the upcoming semester. PERSONAL COUNSELING Students can obtain personal counseling from counselors in the Counseling Office. Counseling is available to students who feel a need for short-term help with personal problems or in a crisis situation. Assistance may be provided through a limited num- ber of individual counseling sessions and referrals. To make an appointment to see a counselor, call (818) 719-6440 or go to the Counseling Office in the Student Services Building or online at www.lapc.edu/student-services/counseling/appointments. SERVICE AREA OUTCOMES The following Service Area Outcomes have been developed to inform students about the goals of the program: � Provide access to Counseling services by utilizing existing and new technology. � Students receiving counseling services will be able to evaluate academic options and make informed decisions on appropriate classes to take each semester. Career Center The Los Angeles Pierce College Career Center provides individual career counseling appointments, special events and workshops in career exploration, career planning and decision-making in addition to job seeking skills and strategies. The Career Center can help students identify and communicate their major, career and/or educational goals with clarity and purpose. We offer resources such as virtual self-as- sessments, assessment interpretations, major exploration tools, and more so students can navigate on their own or get help from a career counselor. We are located in the Student Services building. The Transfer Center The Los Angeles Pierce College Transfer Center has resources and ser- vices to make the transition from Pierce to a four-year college/univer- sity easier. Representatives from many public and private universities, including UCLA, CSUN, CSU Los Angeles and UC Santa Barbara meet regularly with prospective students to advise them regarding admissions, program planning, and other support services. The Transfer Center provides students with the resources they need to plan their educational goal of obtaining a bachelor's degree. Students can personally meet with representatives from UCLA, CSUN and UCSB to name just a few. We also have catalogs, web resources, appli- cations and five workstations with internet connectivity. Please refer to the Transfer Information section of this catalog for more information. Veterans Advisement Veterans Advisement is available to all veterans and veteran depen- dents who desire to use their benefits. The Veterans Office is in the lobby of the Financial Aid Office in the Student Services Building, 2nd floor. Vocational Rehabilitation Services Students who have a physical, emotional, or other disability may be eligible for the services of the State Department of Rehabilitation. These services include vocational counseling and guidance, training (including payment of college costs), and job placement. Under certain circumstances students may also qualify for help with medical needs, living expenses and transportation and other services. For further information, appointments may be made with a counselor in the Special Services Office. 318 Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG Campus Resource Support Services College Store Los Angeles Pierce College's College Store is located next to parking lot #1 in the College Services Building. The store is a meeting place for both the academic and social life of the campus. It is an academically oriented resource, where the need for and interest in reading and study engendered in the classroom can be nurtured and reinforced. The store is also a social focal point on the campus, offering many goods and services required by the college community. The College Store is owned and operated by the Los Angeles Com- munity College District, under policies set down by the Board of Trustees. The purpose of the College Store is to provide for the sale of text- books, course materials and general merchandise for the academic programs and beyond. More information is available online at www.lapiercecollegestore.com. Students may also have the option of renting selected textbooks for their courses. The College Store is operated on sound business principles in the anticipation that its income will cover both its operating expenses and its attributable capital development costs. School Supply Vending Machine The College Store has a supply vending machine on campus for your testing needs. The supply vending machine is located near the front entrance of the College Store. Metro U-Pass For more information about the U-Pass program, visit the College Store website at www.lapiercecollegestore.com or call (818) 719-6420. Business Office All student accounts are handled through the Business Office. Services available are: collection of fees for enrollment, non-resident tuition, audit, parking, and ASO (cash only). The Business Office also pro- cesses child development payments. Grant checks are distributed by this office and repayment collected for returned checks. Metro GoPass All LACCD students are eligible to participate in the GoPass Pro- gram. The Metro GoPass enables students to ride all buses and trains operated by Metro and participating transit agencies completely free of charge beginning July 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. To receive your Metro GoPass, visit the Business Office in the College Services Building. Please bring your Student ID. You must be an enrolled student at Los Angeles Pierce College to be eligible. Child Development Center The LA Pierce College Child Development Center is located on the Northwest corner of Mason Ave. and Olympic Drive near the Victory Blvd. entrance. Directions Phone number: (818) 719-6494 Email: LAPC-CDC@laccd.edu Website: LA Pierce College Child Development Center Hours of operation during Fall, Winter, and Spring sessions: � Monday through Thursday, 8:00a.m. - 4:00p.m., closing at 12:30 on some, maybe all, Fridays throughout the regular school year. Hours of operation during the Summer session: � Monday-Thursday, 8:00a.m. - 3:30p.m. The Child Development Center operates on the LA Pierce College academic calendar. The LA Pierce College Child Development Center serves two purposes: 1. To provide a high-quality care and early childhood edu- cation program for the children of Pierce students and the surrounding community. We provide full & 1/2-day childcare five days a week to qualifying families with play-based learning for children 2-4 and a focus on Developmentally Appropriate Practices (DAP). Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided daily at no charge through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). Fees for all Campus Child Development Center programs are cal- culated using a sliding scale based on family size and gross monthly income. Subsidized service is available to eligible families. Eligibility for the program and childcare is based on family size, income, child's age, school schedule, work hours, and housing. Families qualifying for other state/federally-funded programs, who are students, and/or have children with IEPs have priority. 2. To provide a model program as a fieldwork site for adult students studying Child Development and related fields. The LA Pierce College Child Development Center is a primary observation and practicum site for students studying Child Devel- opment and related fields. Adult students can observe and gain experience working with young children as they study to become Early Childhood Educators and Directors. CAMPUS CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER SERVICE AREA OUTCOMES The following Service Area Outcomes have been developed to inform students about the goals of the program: � Children will demonstrate continued cognitive, creative, physical, and social-emotional development growth. � CDC Assistant Teachers will be able to demonstrate the ability to create appropriate curriculum activities for children after profes- sional development training. � Instructional/Adult students will demonstrate knowledge of appropriate child-centered classroom activities by observing or working in the CDC classrooms. � Parents will gain relevant information to improve parenting skills. Student Services & Academic Resources GENERAL CATALOG 2024-2025 319 Food Services Food services will be available on the mall during normal business hours. Brahma Cafe Located next to the College Store, Brahma Cafe is an exciting gather- ing point for the Campus' Community and its visitors. The Brahma Cafe does catering, as well � from 5-1500 people. We look forward to serving you. Brahma Cafe Hours: Monday through Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. when classes are in session. Hours are subject to change. Pacific Dining Located on the ground floor of the Library Learning Crossroads (LLC) is Pacific Dining food court offering a broad range of food choices. Pacific Dining Hours: Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 1:00p.m. Closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Hours subject to change. Food Vending Machines Located at various locations on campus. Serving hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, fruit and other miscellaneous snack items. Health Services A variety of health services are available at the Student Health Center located on the second floor of the Student Services Building. The center provides first aid, crisis intervention, health assessment, mental health counseling, health referrals and health information. Stu- dents are welcome to drop in or call (818) 710-4270 for an appoint- ment to see a physician, the college nurse, a nurse practitioner, or a licensed psychologist. The Student Health Center is now a Family PACT provider. That means an eligible student can receive free family planning services, including contraception, emergency contraception, STI screening and treatment, and most family planning associated services. Other acute medical issues can be treated with low-cost antibiotics when indicated that the Health Center can supply. Free condoms, over the counter medications and antigen COVID test are also provided on an as needed basis. Consultation and/or referral regarding personal and emotional problems affecting a student's educational progress are also avail- able through the Student Health Center. In addition, a licensed psychologist is available to students for short-term personal coun- seling. Appointments are made through the Health Center at (818) 710-4270. It is strongly urged that an identifying emblem be worn by persons with any medical problems or allergies. Students with known physical impairments must limit enrollment to courses in which they may participate with safety. Students are encouraged to obtain a medical insurance plan. Students who need medical assistance when the Student Health Cen- ter is closed should contact the Campus Sheriff. Students participating in competitive sports are required to have a physical exam. The Health Center is not able to offer sports physicals based on restrictions found in the Education Code. Students should contact their coach/trainer for information regarding physical exams. Please call the Health Center at (818) 710-4270 for more information or check our website at www.lapc.edu/student-services/spr/health-center for additional information. HEALTH SERVICES SERVICE AREA OUTCOMES The following Service Area Outcomes have been developed to inform students about the goals of the program: 1. More students will utilize the Student Health Center. 2. Students will utilize free psychological services, if needed. 3. Students will exhibit knowledge of behaviors that support good health, identify obstacles and challenges to achieving optimal health and devise strategies to pursue a healthy lifestyle. 4. Students will experience a private, secure facility for health services. Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office Los Angeles Pierce College is patrolled by Los Angeles County Sher- iff's Deputies and Security Officers. The Sheriff's Deputies are Peace Officers pursuant to Penal Code section 830.1. The Sheriff's Security Officers are defined as "Public Officers," authorized by Penal Code section 831.4 and have received additional Peace Officer training per Penal Code section 832. The Los Angeles Pierce College Sheriff's Office is responsible for reporting and investigating crimes, issuing traffic citations, responding to medical emergencies, traffic collisions and fire emergencies, as well as other incidents that require their assistance. Please report traffic accidents, injuries, thefts, lost and found items, or any unusual circum- stances to the Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff's Office is located on the east side of parking lot one near the tennis courts next to Brahma Drive and is staffed twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Los Angeles Pierce College is committed to the safety of all the Stu- dents, Faculty, and Staff. The campus is equipped with "Blue Emer- gency Phones" that connect directly to the on-campus Sheriff's station. Emergency Resources The campus has developed comprehensive emergency procedures on evacuations, general safety, communications, and response to a major disaster. An emergency procedure booklet can be found in each class- room and it provides information on the following subjects: Emer- gency Contacts, Utility Failures, Personal & Medical Emergency, Fire, Crime in Progress, Earthquake, Explosions, Bomb Threat, Evacuation [with zone map and zone assignments], and Blue Phone Map. The Los Angeles Pierce College Campus Emergency Procedure Statement and emergency booklet is also available on the college website under Campus Safety & Sheriff. Los Angeles Pierce College has installed several methods to communi- cate to Students, Faculty, and Staff in the event of an emergency. Los Angeles Pierce College utilizes Blackboard Connect to send messages and for voice paging via the campus telephone system. All emergency communications and the overall emergency plan for Pierce are updated on a consistent basis and tested on an annual basis. Student Services & Academic Resources 2024-2025 GENERAL CATALOG 