Rules and Regulations

ISLAND CAREER ACADEMY

RULES AND REGULATIONS

REVISED: February 25, 2026

The rules and regulations, form a part of the student contract.

Failure to comply with the rules and regulations could result in dismissal from the program.

CLASS TIMES

Class times are scheduled between the hours of 8:15am and 8:30pm. Maximum class time will not exceed 8 hours per day. *Students are not permitted in the building before or after school hours

Island Career Academy reserves the right to change class times. Students will be given adequate advance notice if there are any changes to class schedules.

Program class times vary in length. A schedule of class times will be provided to each student at the time of enrollment.

Classes commence precisely at the designated times. Students are required to be in their assigned classrooms on or before the scheduled start time.

If a student is late for class, they are not permitted to enter the classroom and will be marked late, which will be reflected in their attendance report. Students may only gain entry to the classroom during the next scheduled break ______ (initial)

• BREAKS: a 15 minute break will be provided for each session (AM and PM)
• LUNCH: a 30 minute lunch break will be provided for each full day of classes.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

CELL PHONES USE

• Students are not permitted to use their cell phones during class time. ____ (Initial)
• Cell phone usage is also not permitted around staff working areas such as the front desk.
• Students are to be respectful when using their cell phones in all common areas.

DRESS CODE

Island Career Academy is preparing students for the workplace and students should treat the school the same as they would a professional work environment. Therefore, students are expected to dress in comfortable but appropriate ‘business casual attire’.

On occasion, specific programs require course related attire such as scrubs, or attire that is in harmony with the program they are enrolled in. These requirements are clearly communicated to students in all programs at the start of the year. *These exceptions to dress code ONLY APPLY DURING DESIGNATED TIMES.

Business casual attire description: neat, clean and tidy clothing. For a better understanding, please see ‘prohibited attire’ described below.

Prohibited attire: students may be given a written warning or in extreme cases asked to leave the premises if they are wearing any of the following:

• any clothing containing offensive language or images that could be interpreted as hateful, discriminatory, abusive and/or offensive
• clothing depicting disturbing and /or offensive images
• ripped, torn, unclean or dirty clothing

If, at any time, another student or staff member considers another student attire inappropriate, they are to report this to management for review. Management will determine if the attire is inappropriate. If so, the individual will be respectfully notified privately, asking them to discontinue wearing the specific attire to school. Like all incidents, this will be well documented and kept in the students file.

POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

Students are expected to act professionally at all times inside and outside the classroom to promote, contribute to and maintain a safe and positive learning environment. This ensures that all students have an equal opportunity to learn and are not impeded by others behavior.

PROHIBITED BEHAVIORS DEEMED DISRUPTIVE TO A POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONENT:

• Disrespectful tone and/or attitude interrupting or talking over other classmates and/or the instructor. Arguing with the instructor regarding program material and delivery in class. If the student has any concerns or issues concerning curriculum practices this can ONLY be addressed with a scheduled appointment.
• Distracting body language and/or facial expressions, such as falling asleep, stretching, yawning, grimacing, glaring etc., anything that distracts classmates or instructors.
• Use of Profanity – UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES are students permitted to use profanity ever in class or on the premises.

* Violation of a positive learning environment will result in an incident report(s) and could eventually lead to suspension and/or dismissal from the program if the individual is unwilling and unable to resolve their conduct. ______initial

1. With written permission, Island Career Academy reserves the right to use a student’s name and/or image in any advertising for promotional purposes.

DESIGNATED SMOKING AREAS

In accordance with the Nova Scotia Smoke Free Places Act which states:

BUILDING ENTRANCES

• NO SMOKING IS PERMITTED within 4 meters of windows, air intake vents and entrances to places of employment

Students are absolutely prohibited from smoking in and around ALL entrances and open windows. This includes entrances and windows of the NSTU building located next to the school. Smoking is ONLY permitted at the rear parking lot area. NO EXCEPTIONS.

1. Soliciting of any kind by students is not permitted without the permission of administration (ie. Ticket sales, food sales, etc.)
2. Loitering is NOT permitted in and/or around building entrances or the front desk area. Students waiting for drives are to wait in their classrooms or in the canteen/common area.
3. Under no circumstances are students permitted to install or use any software program(s) other than what is already available on any computer lab system. Island Career Academy instructors are the only ones with authority to install course related software programs.

Under no circumstances are students allowed to add, delete or copy files from any computer lab system at the school.

Island Career Academy thrives to be an environmentally friendly environment and, in an effort, to comply with the CBRM waste management plan, students are asked not to bring non-recyclable items into the school.

Students must properly dispose of all garbage items in the labelled bins located in the common area. If students improperly dispose of items in the wrong bins, they will be subject to the actions listed for failure to follow our rules and regulations. We ask for students’ cooperation in this matter to make our world greener and to keep waste management costs as low as possible.

1. Students are responsible for their own workspace in each class. These spaces are expected to be neat and tidy with no perishable items being left in the classroom or their work area.

Island Career Academy and instructors are not responsible for books, disks or personal items left in classrooms.

1. Island Career Academy DOES NOT ACCEPT any personal calls or messages for students. The school is not responsible for taking or relaying messages to students, except in the event of an emergency.
2. Insubordination: Students must always uphold a respectful and professional manner, towards their Instructors and ICA Staff on and off-site during their studies at Island Career Academy.

Insubordination is a student’s refusal to follow reasonable instruction, speaking or behaving in an unprofessional and disrespectful manner and tone, contesting curriculum and or how it is being taught, an unwillingness to follow rules or to address and voice concerns in a disruptive, negative and disrespectful manner.

Students not permitted to challenge Instructors on their roles, the curriculum or our rules and regulations. If a student has a concern, they are required to request a meeting with their Instructor or Management via email to discuss. If and when a concern is being expressed, the student must do so in a professional and respectful tone and manner. Students are not permitted to address concerns openly in front of others and/or in an unprofessional or disrespectful manner or tone. Students are required to follow their instructor’s reasonable directions and are not permitted to contest any ICA Rules or Regulations, to which they have signed and agreed to.

Refusal to conduct themselves professionally and respectfully towards their instructor or any Island Career Academy Staff by displaying disrespectful behavior or making disrespectful remarks is considering insubordination and will lead to immediate disciplinary action. A student who is found to be insubordinate could face potentially suspension or termination from their respective program. _________initial

PRIOR LEARNING ASSESSMENT AND RECOGNITION POLICY

Prior learning is any learning and/or training that an individual has acquired through formal education from a recognized institution. The learning must be current (within the last 2 years), relevant to the program/course and meet equivalent standards offered at Island Career Academy. The student will be required to demonstrate these learnings through valid assessment methods. If the learning demonstrated is equivalent to that normally acquired through a formal course, in the chosen area of college study, then credit may be granted.

The assessment of prior learning shall be determined through the writing of exams, the evaluation of skills, the assessment of portfolios, or a combination of any of these.

Procedure:

1. This procedure refers to the process of obtaining an assessment of prior learning on a course-by-course basis.
2. Individuals must meet with the Director of Programs (or designate) prior to apply for prior learning assessment, in order to determine whether or not their educational experiences are appropriate to proceed with prior learning assessment.
3. Individuals must have applied to a program and met all program entrance requirements before applying for prior learning assessment.
4. Once the results of the PLAR assessment are determined, the Director of Programs will notify the applicant in writing of these results.

* If an applicant does not have a high school diploma or the equivalency or if their transcripts state IPP; the applicant is required to participate in standardized testing through Wonderlic. Wonderlic specializes in student selection assessment testing and is a recommended by The Department of Labour and Advanced Education Private Career College Division to fulfill this requirement.

The passing grade for entrance requirements is as follows:

ISLAND CAREER ACADEMY STUDENT POLICIES

ATTENDANCE AND DISMISSAL POLICY

ATTENDANCE LEVELS

When a student’s attendance level falls below 90%, the student will receive an incident report.

The student will be required to provide a written explanation for the missed class time.

When a student’s attendance level falls below 85%, the student is required to meet with their Program Coordinator and/or the Director of Programs. At this time, the student will be reminded of the rules concerning attendance and the consequences as outlined in the attendance policy.

In the event that a student’s attendance falls below 80%, they may be prohibited from writing any final exams or tests. They will receive only the earned mark prior to being denied permission to write tests and or final exam for the courses/subjects in question. Where no mark has been obtained for a course/subject, an incomplete will appear on the student’s official transcript of marks.

MISSED HOURS/COURSE MATERIAL MAKE-UP PROCEDURES

When a student has missed so much time/course material that they are ineligible to pass/complete a course/module, they will be given an opportunity to make up the missed time/course material by following the proper procedures:

1) Written Request - the student must submit a written request, to their instructor, requesting the opportunity to make up the missed time/course material

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2) Submission for Approval - the instructor will review and present the request to the Director of Programs for approval, which will be given within 2 business from the date of the formal request.

3) Formal Arrangement Proposal - once approved, the Director of Programs and the respective Instructor will develop a formal arrangement proposal, outlining available dates for the student to make up the missed time/course material. Together they will determine an acceptable timeline of when the student is expected to make up the missed time/course material (primarily based on the instructor’s availability) and draft it into a proposal to present to the student.

4) Presentation – the formal arrangement proposal will then be presented to the student, at which time they must accept or reject the proposal offered. The cost incurred for this process is the responsibility of the student. All costs involved will be included in this action plan.

*If the formal arrangement proposal is accepted, the student is required to cover all costs associated with this process. Island Career Academy will provide a classroom to do so.

*If the student does not accept the proposal and/or is unavailable to attend during the time offered in the proposal, the instructor will attempt to accommodate their schedule but this is solely dependent on the instructor’s schedule flexibility and their ability to accommodate the student within the agreed upon time frame required to complete the missed time/course material.

NOTE: It will be at the discretion of the Instructor and the Director of Programs to determine when the missed time/course material must be completed in order for the student to move forward in the program. For instance, missed time/course material may be required before the student can move on to the next module. In this case the student must complete the material within a restrictive time period.

Island Career Academy is committed to its students needs and will work diligently to accommodate missed time as long as instructors schedule permit.

POTENTIAL EXCEPTIONS:

Notwithstanding the above attendance policy, when a student provides proof of a health or personal issue causing absenteeism and has fulfilled the in class instructional requirements (i.e. Readings, projects etc.) and has completed missed coursework to the satisfaction of his or her instructor, permission to write required tests and exams may be granted by the Director of Programs upon written request.

In the event a student has missed time related to health/medical issues that have been explained in medical documentation from a recognized health professional, stating that they are physically unable to attend class, the missed time will not be counted for the purposes of immediate dismissal.

However, should a student miss so much time/course material (caused by explained and properly documented health/medical issues) that they are unable to complete the requirements of a program making them ineligible to graduate, the student will be exempt from our re-enrollment policy and will be automatically eligible to re-enroll in the same program for the following 2 years. Completed modules will be applied when they re-enroll and the student will not be expected to repeat successfully completed courses/modules.

This policy does not apply when a training program requires certification courses, such as CPR/First Aid, WHMIS, Food Handlers etc. All certificate courses require 100% attendance, in order for a student to graduate from the program.

1. Failure to successfully complete all necessary courses on time will result in being deemed ineligible for practicum placement.
2. A Diploma will not be awarded to a student who does not successfully complete required practicum placements.

Students MUST attend and satisfactorily complete the occupational health and safety training required by clause 22(a) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, including a student evaluation in order to be eligible for graduation

A student who misses 3 consecutive weeks or 10% of the total hours of a program, which ever happens first, will be dismissed from the program. Whenever possible, the student will be given the opportunity to make up missed time prior to dismissal from the program.

If a student intends to make up the missed hours/course material under a formal arrangement, then that missed time will not be counted for the purposes of dismissal. However, the original missed hours will still be counted towards their attendance/absenteeism record and considered when determining eligibility for honors.

When dismissing a student, for any reason, Island Career Academy will provide the student with a written notice of the dismissal that will include the reason for the dismissal and the effective time and date of the dismissal.

In dismissing a student from a program, Island Career Academy will act in accordance with the Act and regulations, any conditions attached to the program approval, the student contract and the college’s policies, rules and regulations.

*Any notification of cancellation of classes will be announced on our official Island Career Academy Facebook page by 7:00 AM the morning of class. Notification will also be announced on the radio on 101.9 Hot Radio. Please be advised we will not respond to Facebook messages regarding school closures and ask that students refrain from sending messages regarding this matter. Again, refer to our official Facebook page for closure announcements.

ACADEMIC GRADE POLICIES

1. To be eligible for Practicum (Job Placement) as well as to be eligible to receive a Diploma, students must achieve an average of 65% for ALL course/subjects, with no mark below 60% in any subject. (Final course/subject mark.)

All students enrolled in the Massage Therapy program, must achieve an average of 75% in ALL courses/subjects, with no mark below 70% in order to be eligible for Practicum Job Placement as well as to be eligible to receive a Diploma in Massage Therapy.

All students enrolled in the Continuing Care Assistant program, must achieve an average of 75% in ALL courses/subjects, with no mark below 70% to be eligible for Practicum Job Placement as well as to be eligible to receive a Diploma in Continuing Care Assistant.

NOTE: In addition to a final course/subject test, instructors reserve the right to test students periodically on course material which instruction has been provided during a specific time frame.

1. Grades from all tests will be given to students not later than 5 business days after testing. Final course/subject test marks not later than 10 business days after testing. Test grades will only be provided to the students prior to this time at the discretion of the instructor.
2. Grades for assignments, projects, tests, including final course/subject tests and practicum evaluations will not be given to a student whose account is in arrears.
3. One supplementary final exam is permitted, on one failed course/subject final exam only. A request for a supplementary (re-write) must be in writing to the Director of Programs, no less than 10 days after mark is received.

Re-writes will be scheduled by administration. 15 days’ notice will be given.

Cost for a re-write is $60.00 payable in advance. The only mark issued for re-writes are “pass” or “fail”, in accordance with the program of enrollment.

* Supplementary re-writes may be granted for extenuating circumstances only upon review and management approval.

1. Exams, tests and quizzes are to be written only on the date scheduled by the instructor. Students requesting exam, test or quiz rescheduling must do so in writing to the Director of Programs prior to the scheduled date.

Rescheduled tests will be scheduled by administration outside of class time; 15 days’ notice will be given.

1. When a student is granted a re-write (as outlined in item 4 or 5 above) a cost of $60.00 will be incurred by the student and added to the students account for proctoring and substitute test/exam.
2. Copying, cheating or any form of plagiarism will not be tolerated at Island Career Academy. Any student found to be in violation will receive a 0 for the assignment, project, and test/exam in question and could be issued a discontinuation of enrollment.
3. A student who *fails to achieve a passing grade for any course/subject may repeat the course/subject or practicum.

*NOTE: Continuing Care Assistant students who fail to achieve a passing grade or fail to successfully complete lab requirements in course 4,5,7, 10 or fail to successfully complete a practicum requirement will not be permitted to continue in the program.

In the event that a student is removed from the program, they will be required to re-enroll in the program. Credits will be given for previously passed courses / subjects not identified above within the program.

1. In accordance with Island Career Academy’s rules and regulation pertaining to the re-enrollment policy, the student must acquire a mark of not less than 60% while maintaining a 65% grade average.

Massage Therapy students must have a mark of not less than 70% while maintaining a 75% grade average.

1. To graduate “With Honors”, students must fulfil the following requirements:

• an overall average of 90%
• no grade below 80%
• attendance level above 90%
• successfully completed a Practicum job placement

1. To graduate “With Distinction”, students must fulfil the following requirements:

• an overall average of 85%
• no grade below 75%
• attendance level above 90%
• successfully completed a Practicum job placement

12. All other requirements for program completion must be achieved to be eligible for practicum placement.

13. A student having completed all requirements of their program of enrollment and having paid in full all fees, (tuition, books and related program fees), will receive their certificate/diploma no later than 30 days following the registered end date.

To be awarded a Diploma student are required to complete all listed courses/subject’s practicum placements and listed certifications for the respected program of enrollment.

PLEASE NOTE: A student is not eligible to graduate with Honors or Distinction if they have breached any of our Rules & Regulations or Policies and have been issued an official Incident Report that has been presented to them and recorded in their student file.

_______ (Initials)

RE-ENROLLMENT POLICY

In the event a student fails to obtain a passing grade, does not complete or obtain credit for courses/subjects within a training program, the following policy will apply regarding re-enrollment for a course/subject for the purpose of completing the program requirements.

Students may re-enroll in the next available offering of the courses/subjects. They must complete all the requirements of the courses/subjects in question as described in the requirements to complete the respective program of study.

Requirements: Students are required to successfully complete a minimum of sixty (60) percent of their enrolled course/subject to be eligible for re-enrollment in the same course(s) / subject(s) for which they have previously not completed within the last 2 academic calendar years.

Students have to be in good standing for the duration of their program in accordance with Island Career Academy’s Rules and Regulations.

Costs for re-enrolling in course/subject as per this policy are on a per diem basis using the original program of enrolment tuition costs.

Textbook requirements for re-enrollment:

• Students are permitted to use their previously purchased course text books when re-enrolling into a program as long as that is the same text book still being used by instructors.
• Students are required to purchase new text books if the edition has changed from the time they were originally enrolled in the program.

All other Rules and Regulations pertaining to program enrollment/completion affect students re-enrolled in a course/subject.

PRACTICUM PLACEMENT POLICY

Where a program contains a practicum placement component, Island Career Academy will arrange required Practicum Placements.

Students are NOT PERMITTED to contact any business or any representative of any business concerning Island Career Academy practicum placement programs without the written consent of Island Career Academy.

Each student will be provided only one practicum placement.

Successful completion of the practicum placement component is required in order to be awarded a Diploma. In the event a student is not successful in completing the practicum placement component, the student may appeal the decision resulting in the failed practicum placement. A review will be conducted resulting in an approval or denial to repeat the practicum placement.

Practicum placements schedules may include a schedule within any time frame. Schedules are subject to change. If a student is absent from a scheduled or mentor practicum placement, the student is responsible to notify the practicum placement host and the school. Failure to notify either can result in a cancelled placement.

To require a change in schedule or take time off for any reason during practicum placements, approval must be granted by the practicum placement host and Island Career Academy. Should a student miss time due to extenuating circumstances, with the approval of the practicum place host, the missed time can be made up.

PLEASE NOTE: A practicum placement host can cancel a practicum placement at any time before or during the placement.

RISK ASSESSMENT POLICY

Island Career Academy is committed to providing a safe learning environment to all of our students and we expect that the same safety measures are followed by our practical placement hosts while our students are learning on their premises. Therefore, we reserve the right to randomly visit practical placement premises to conduct an independent survey of the work areas that our students will be exposed. This is in an effort to determine if there are any hazards or safety concerns that we feel may place our students in any danger. If such hazards exist, we will also determine if proper and satisfactory preventative measures and equipment have been put in place to avoid potential injury as a result of natural work hazard.

Please note, should one of Island Career Academy’s representatives identify, or be made aware of any unsafe or hazardous learning environments by one of our students, it is our responsibility to report it and address the matter with the host to be resolved immediately.

RISK ASSESSMENT FORM

Prior to the practical placement start date, hosts will be required to complete a Risk Assessment Form to assist in our evaluation of the safety of the students’ work environment while on the host’s premises. This form will also help us understand how any known unsafe and/or hazardous issues or areas are being managed to further ensure that all preventative measures are taken to protect the safety of our students.

PRIVACY AND DISTRIBUTION POLICY

Island Career Academy is committed to ensuring that our student’s privacy is respected and protected at all times. Our students entrust us with sensitive personal, financial and academic records and we take all precautions to maintain confidentiality and limit access to a small number of authorized individuals.

Authorized individuals include: the administrative assistant, Director of Programs, president of the school and any related funding agencies that are providing a student with financial assistance to attend a program.

NOTE: Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education, Private Career College Division’s officers also have full access to student files for auditing purposes to ensure we are following proper rules and regulations.

Information contained in the student file are used to qualify them for a program to ensure that they meet all of the requirements outlined in the course and that a record of those requirements are documented. These files are also used to qualify students for practical placement work terms. For instance, in cases where a profession such as a Continuing Care Assistant requires a driver’s license and a clear criminal record check these documents are kept in their file.

Funding agencies use the above listed student documents to confirm that the student is meeting all eligibility requirements for continued financial support.

Upon written request, students will be given a copy of their file in accordance with Section 59 of the Private Career Colleges Act of Nova Scotia

SCENT SENSITIVE ENVIRONMENT POLICY

Island Career Academy is a scent sensitive learning environment and all of our employees and students are expected to use unscented, scent-free or fragrance-free products at all times.

Island Career Academy has a scent sensitive policy as part of our commitment to ensuring a safe, healthy and comfortable working/learning environment for all of our employees and students, particularly for those who suffer from scent sensitivities and/or scent allergies caused by scented products. It is widely documented that many people suffer from mild to severe reactions when exposed to even small traces of fragrances/scents. This policy is in place to prevent such instances from occurring.

Our scent sensitive policy applies to all Island Career Academy staff and students, in all areas of the building, as well as during Island Career Academy functions that are held outside of the school.

We understand it can be challenging for individuals to eliminate all scented products from their personal hygiene routine. Therefore, in circumstances when unscented products are not an option, we strongly encourage the use of ‘lightly scented’ products. Please note: we reserve the right to request an employee or student discontinue the use of ANY lightly scented product if it becomes harmful to others.

POLICY DEFINITIONS:

• Scents / Scented Products: smells or odors from cosmetics and/or personal hygiene products.
• Scented Products include but are not limited to:
• Perfumes / Colognes
• Aftershave / Shave Gels
• Deodorant
• Cosmetics
• Shampoo / Conditioner
• Body Lotions / Oils / Sanitizers
• Hairspray / Mousse
• Laundry Detergent / Fabric Softeners
• Scent-Free / Fragrance Free / Unscented: cosmetic or personal hygiene products with zero to very slight traces of smells or odors.
• Scent Sensitivity / Scent Allergies: a condition by which an individual suffers mild to severe reactions when exposed to scents or fragrances.
• Examples of some scent sensitive/allergic reactions:
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Dizziness, Lightheadedness
• Loss of Concentration
• Loss of Appetite
• Upper respiratory symptoms
• Asthmatic attacks, etc.

It is the responsibility of all Island Career Academy employees and students to be respectful and considerate to the needs of those who suffer from scent sensitivities by using scent-free or unscented products at all times.

PROCEDURES:

All staff are made aware of this policy upon hiring and students are made aware upon acceptance into a program when all policies are clearly explained.

Posters dedicated to reminding staff and students that Island Career Academy is a scent sensitive environment have been displayed in several high traffic areas throughout the building:

• various entrances and exits
• in the communal room and lunch/break rooms
• classroom entrances

If an employee or student is wearing a scented product that you find harmful to your health please notify that individual first.

If the individual continues using the scented product, you can report the issue to management or in the case of students, to your instructor.

This policy is intended as a guide only. While scent free products are ultimately a personal choice, Island Career Academy is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all of our employees and students. If at any time you are notified that you are wearing a scented product that is harmful to an employee or a student you are expected to discontinue its use.

Failure to discontinue use of scented products that have been identified to you as harmful to others could lead to disciplinary action.

ANTI-HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION AND BULLYING POLICY

Island Career Academy is committed to providing a safe, respectful and harassment free teaching and learning environment for all of our students and employees. We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, discrimination and bullying. At no time, is a student or staff member permitted to treat another individual in a manner that is considered harassing, discriminatory or bullying in nature to another student or staff member.

If it is determined that a student is in violation of these policies, they will face potential dismissal from their respective program.

If it is determined that a staff member is violating another individual, they could potentially face termination of employment if progressive discipline procedures are not immediately met.

This policy applies to all of Island Career Academy’s employees and all of our students. This policy extends beyond the premises and if a staff member or student is found harassing, discriminating against or bullying another staff member or student outside the premises, consequences for these actions will be the same. The individual is also subject to criminal charges depending on the severity of the situation and local police will be contacted if deemed necessary by management staff.

The use of social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram etc to harass, discriminate or bully a staff member or student is covered under this policy and disciplinary action applies if these means are used to attack or violate another individual associated with Island Career Academy.

Island Career Academy’s employees and students have the right to teach and learn in a safe, respectful non-discriminatory and harassment free environment. It is the responsibility of all employees and all students to ensure that they do not harass, discriminate against or bully another individual. It is also everyone’s responsibility to report potential harassment, discrimination and/or bullying that they have witnessed. We expect that everyone plays an active role in the prevention of such unacceptable behaviour.

Island Career Academy EMPLOYEES are responsible to:

• Act in a respectful manner towards all individuals at Island Career Academy, both on and off the premises at all times.
• Immediately intervene or have management intervene to stop active discrimination, harassment or bullying behaviour.
• Acknowledge and address any observed behaviour that they consider to be harassing and/or bullying in nature towards any individual(s).
• Investigate the behaviour and document all observations and conversations related to the behaviour/incident(s).
• Keep clear, thorough and dated records in the individual’s file.
• Immediately report the behaviour to the Director of Programs and/or President of the school and provide any and all gathered information to support their claim.
• Assist management by observing and gathering all related information to ensure that the harassment and/or bullying behaviour does not resume.

Island Career Academy STUDENTS are responsible to:

• Act in a respectful manner towards all individuals at Island Career Academy, both on and off the premises at all times.
• Immediately report any observed behaviour towards another student or staff member that they consider harassing and/or bullying in nature to their instructor.
• If the student witnesses an instructor harassing and/or bullying another student, they are to report it to the Director of Programs.
• If the student feels they are being harassed or bullied by an instructor, they are to report it to the Director of Programs.

*Policy definitions are attached (harassment, discrimination, complainant and hostile work or learning environment

There is a designated student parking lot/area located in the back of the building.

ANTI-HARASSMENT/BULLYING & DISCRIMINATION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Island Career Academy has ZERO TOLERANCE for harassment, bullying and discrimination. We are committed to providing all staff and students with a safe, positive and professional environment and breach of this policy threatens that environment.

If it is determined that a student has harassed, bullied or discriminated against another student or staff member, the student will potentially be dismissed from their program effective immediately with no prior warnings.

This policy applies to a student’s behavior and actions both inside and outside of the classroom environment, which includes any and all digital platforms. For example, if a student harasses, bullies or discriminates against another staff or student outside the classroom via social media they are subject to dismissal the same as if the behavior happened on school premises.

* By signing below, you acknowledge that if you harass, bully or discriminate against another student or staff member in any way, you may be immediately dismissed from the program.

I am aware that should I harass, bully or discriminate against another student or staff member I face potential dismissal from my program without any prior warning

X ________________________________________________________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE

STUDENT COMPLAINT RESOLUTION PROCESS

Individuals who feel they are being harassed or bullied are to follow the complaint resolution process as outlined below:

Step 1: Notify the individual of the unwelcome behaviour

The complainant is to notify the person that they believe is bullying and/or harassing them, that their behaviour is harassing in nature and is therefore unwelcome along with a request to stop the unwelcome behaviour immediately.

Step 2: Report the harassment/bullying to Island Career Academy Management

The complainant is to officially report the harassment/bullying to management by completing an ‘Incident / Complaint Report Form’. See attached form.

The Incident/ Complaint Report Form must name the individual in question and contain clear examples of the unwelcome behaviour to help support their claim of harassment and/or bullying, which includes forms of harassment on social media platforms (see Cyberbullying definition)

The date the complainant made the individual aware that their behaviour was unwelcome and requested it stop.

Step 3: File an 2^nd Incident Report Form if/when the behaviour continues and has gone unresolved

The report should include:

• Copy of the 1^st Incident Report form
• Description of the continued unwelcome behaviour and all related incidents, which includes forms of harassment on social media platforms (see Cyberbullying definition)
• Incidents should be dated as well as the complainant’s attempts to ask the individual in question to cease their unwelcome behaviour.

Step 4: Schedule a Follow Up meeting with management to assess the status of the issue.

PLEASE NOTE: If the complainant feels uncomfortable or unsafe approaching the individual, they can skip the first step and have management intervene on their behalf. The first step will be to report the behaviour to management and complete an Incident Report Form.

DISCIPLINE AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

When it is determined that a student or staff member is harassing or bullying another student or employee, on or off Island Career Academy premises, they are subject to progressive discipline and potential dismissal from their respective program.

Island Career Academy has a zero tolerance for harassment and/or bullying and is committed to providing a healthy learning environment for both its staff and students.

Failure to comply with this policy will result in the following disciplinary steps:

Step 1: 1^st WARNING ISSUED - VERBAL (documented in the individuals file)

The individual will be given a verbal warning to stop the unwelcome behaviour immediately. This includes unwelcome contact with the complainant both off and on Island Career Academy premises and includes cyberbullying via social media platforms, email, text and through the use of acquaintances.

Step 2: 2^ND WARNING ISSUED - FIRST AND FINAL WRITTEN WARNING

Should the unwelcome behaviour persist, at any time, Island Career Academy reserves the right to issue a ‘FIRST and FINAL’ Written Warning.

This warning will clearly state that this is the absolute last opportunity for the individual to cease the unwelcome behaviour, in all forms, otherwise the individual will risk dismissal from their program and ineligible for graduation.

In the event, it is an employee at Island Career Academy that is determined to be harassing and/or bullying another staff member or student, the employee faces potential dismissal once all progressive discipline steps have failed.

Step 3: DISMISSAL / TERMINATION

If all progressive discipline steps have failed and the unwelcome behaviour persists, the student will be immediately removed/dismissed from the program, without reimbursement

An employee of Island Career Academy found to be harassing or bullying another individual, and who has failed to adhere to all stages of progressive discipline and continues to harass or bully another individual after receiving a final written notice can and will face potential termination from their position.

OFFICIAL COMPLAINT PROCEDURE FOR BULLYING/HARRASSMENT and/or A COMPLAINT REGARDING POLICIES OR PROCEDURES REFLECTING PARTICIPATION IN A TRAINING PROGRAM

1. Obtain a complaint form from the Administrative Assistant.
2. Complete the complaint form outlining all related details regarding the matter.
3. Return the completed complaint form to the Administrative Assistant, who will date stamp and deliver the form to the Human Resource Manager for review. A copy of the complaint form may also be requested at time of submission.
4. Resolution – the Human Resource Manager will then determine if any in-person meetings are required or if the matter can be resolved via email/ phone correspondence within 7 business days to further discuss the submitted complaint

COMPLAINT RESOLUTION MEETING:

• A satisfactory resolution MUST be mutually agreed upon by ALL parties involved.
• In the event a resolution is NOT mutually agreed upon, the individual can then file an appeal, which will be handled by the College President, when a final decision will be made on the matter.

* In the event the President is unavailable during the specified timeframe, the Human Resource Manager along with the Director of Programs can and will act on the Presidents behalf to forego the appeal process to render and communicate a final decision on the matter.

APPEAL PROCEDURE:

• An Appeal must be filed within 5 days of an unsuccessful complaint resolution meeting.
• An appeal is to be submitted to the Administration Assistant, who will notify the College President.
• An Appeal meeting will be scheduled, with the College President, no later than 5 days after filing the appeal, if the President is available. If not the matter is handled but the Human Resource Manager in collaboration with the Director of Programs

MEDIATION PROCEDURE:

In the event that a student and College officials are unable to reach a mutually agreed upon resolution, after a complaint resolution and/or an appeal meeting, the Director of Private Career Colleges will be contacted to act as a mediator in the matter.

Where a student and the above-mentioned College officials have been unable to resolve a dispute either on their own or with the assistance of the Department of Education, Private Career Colleges Division, the student or the College officials may, with the consent of the other party, apply to the Minister for the appointment of a mediator by filing written notice setting out the details of the dispute with both the Minister and the other party.

If the Minister appoints a mediator, the mediator shall endeavour to assist the parties to settle the dispute that is the subject of the mediation.

Evidence arising from anything said or evidence of an admission or communication made in the course of mediation pursuant this section is not admissible in any action or proceeding, except with the consent of the mediator, the student and the operator.

PARKING/PARKING LOT POLICY

*Students use of the parking lot is at their own risk. Island Career Academy is not responsible for vehicles on our property. If your vehicle is damaged while on our property you should contact the Police immediately to report the incident. Island Career Academy will also not mediate parking lot disputes unless it breaches our bullying and harassing policies.

Designated student parking is located at the back of the building. Students are required to ENTER the rear parking lot via the Virginia Street entrance and to EXIT via the lane located between Island Career Academy and the NSTU building.

The front parking lot located in front of Island Career Academy is designated parking for STAFF ONLY. Students are prohibited from parking in the front parking lot at ALL times. Unauthorized vehicles in the front parking lot will be towed at the owner’s expense ________ initials

Students are also not permitted to park in the front parking lot/area or on NSTU property unless advised otherwise by their instructor. Anyone parking on their premises is subject to being towed at their own expense.

Vehicles may be towed from our premises at their own expense if they: reduce parking spaces by parking in a manner that takes up 2 or more spaces, block entrances and exits, other vehicles or main thorough ways and/or if they drive in a reckless or dangerous manner.

Island Career Academy reserves the right to and will have vehicles removed from our property if they violate the above-mentioned expectations.

PARKING LOT CAUTION/CLEARING PROCEDURES

Island Career Academy has an annual contract with a local snow removal organization and is committed to snow removal and de-icing/salting procedures during the winter months. With that said, it is also the students’ responsibility to take all necessary precautions when entering and exiting the building premises both on foot or by vehicle. While we will exhaust all efforts to provide safe environments, weather events and our ability to respond at a moments notice is often challenging given our unpredictable environment. Again, students are responsible to use extreme caution on the premises to ensure their own safety.

Island Career Academy also repairs damages to the school parking lot bi-annually but again students are reminded that they use our parking lot at their own risk.

• TUITION REFUND POLICY

34   (1)    A college must have a tuition refund policy to ensure that the requirements of this Section are met.

       (2)    In this Section, “tuition” includes payment for instruction and any other cost not otherwise excluded from the refund by these regulations.

       (3)    Except as otherwise provided in the Act or these regulations, neither of the following is refundable: (a) a student application fee

(b) a student registration fee

       (4)    A tuition refund is subject to all of the following conditions:

                (a)  the student registration fee credited to the student’s tuition fee under subsection 51(2) must be deducted from the refund;

                (b)  the college may deduct from the refund non-recoverable fees already paid by the college on behalf of the student;

                (c)    except as provided in subsection (5), the college may deduct from the refund the cost of any program material provided to the student, in an amount not exceeding the cost to the college of the material.

       (5)    Clause (4)I does not apply to a refund payable to a student who returns all of the program material to the college unopened or as issued no later than 5 business days after their end of enrolment.

       (6)    For a student whose end of enrolment occurs before the program begins, the college must refund to the student or third-party sponsor all tuition paid.

       (7)    Unless otherwise provided in the Act or these regulations, for a student whose end of enrolment occurs after the program begins but before the program ends, the operator must refund tuition to the student or third-party sponsor in accordance with the following table:

       (8)    A tuition refund referred to in subsection (7) must be calculated in accordance with all

of the following:

the total tuition amount for the program must be divided by the number of hours in the program as approved, and the amount of paid tuition must be calculated beginning with the first hour of the program as delivered and then counting forward;

                (b) the number of hours of the program as delivered must be counted as the program or module hours delivered according to the attendance register for the program as at the end of enrolment, not the number of hours the student actually attended;

                 the number of hours of the program as delivered must include all of the following:

the theoretical, practical and experiential instruction approved for the program,

                         (ii)  any allotted time included in the program for lab work or additional training such as on-the-job-training, skills training or experiential learning, as specified in the program approval;

                (d)  any rounding of the number of hours of the program as delivered must favour the student or third-party sponsor.

       (9)    A college, at the operator’s discretion, may refund tuition in an amount higher than the amount calculated under subsections (7) and (8).

       (10)  No later than 30 days after the end of enrolment of a student to whom a tuition refund is payable, the refund must be paid and a copy of the calculation made under these regulations provided to the student.

       (11)  A disagreement between the college and student with respect to the calculation of a tuition refund must be referred to the Director for a final decision.

PAYMENT OF ACCOUNTS

50% of all program costs are due and payable on the first day of classes. The remaining 50% balance is due and payable on the 1^st Monday at the start of the second half of the program of enrollment.

A monthly payment plan of not less than the total program costs divided by the number of months of program duration, not including final practicum is also available.

Interest is charged at a rate of 2% monthly on overdue accounts. (Grace Period) Monthly interest on account balances will be calculated retroactively and applied beginning 60 days from course start date if first half payment is not made in full on or before this date.

Note: To be eligible for Practicum (Job Placement) all accounts must be paid in full prior to the commencement of placement.

_______ (Initials)

ADMINISTRATIVE FEES

Diplomas and Certificates - $2.00 per set or $1.00 per copy.

Transcript of marks - $2.00 per copy

Resumes: $2.00 per copy

*ARCHIVED FILES (more than 2 years since program start date)

Diplomas and Certificates (same day request) - $40.00 per set

Diplomas and Certificates (with 2 days notice) - $20.00 per set

Transcript of marks (same day request) - $40.00 per set

Transcript of marks (with 2 days notice) - $20.00 per set

ORIGINAL REPLACEMENTS

Diplomas and Certificates - $50.00 per hour to recreate (minimum charge of $25.00)

Transcripts of marks - $50.00 per hour to recreate (minimum charge of $25.00)

STUDENT FILE REQUEST

On written request to the Student Services Coordinator, the student may receipt a copy of their own student file no later than 3 business days after the date of the request. The cost for copying a student file is $20.00. In accordance with Section 59 of the Private Career Colleges Act, all copying costs incurred are the responsibility of the student.

*Cheques returned due to non-sufficient funds (NSF) will be charged an administration fee of $20.00

* RULES AND REGULATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

* WRITTEN NOTICE WILL BE GIVEN FOR ALL CHANGES

POLICY DEFINITIONS & SOURCE OF INFORMATION

HARASSMENT: improper conduct by an individual, that is directed at and offensive to another individual in the workplace, including at any event or any location related to work / college, and that the individual knew or ought reasonably to have known would cause offence or harm. It comprises objectionable act(s), comment(s) or display(s) that demean, belittle, or cause personal humiliation or embarrassment, and any act of intimidation or threat. It also includes harassment within the meaning of the Canadian Human Rights Act (i.e. based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, disability and pardoned conviction).Harassment is normally a series of incidents but can be one severe incident which has a lasting impact on the individual.

Source: http://www.tbs-sct.gc.ca/pol/doc-eng.aspx?id=26041#appA

DISCRIMINATION: an action or a decision that treats a person or a group negatively for reasons such as their race, age or disability. These reasons are known as grounds of discrimination. Federal employers and service providers, as well as employers and service providers of private companies, cannot discriminate against individuals for these reasons.

These 11 grounds are protected under the Canadian Human Rights Act: 

• race 
• international or ethnic origin 
• colour 
• religion 
• age 
• sex 
• sexual orientation 
• marital status 
• family status 
• disability

 Source: http://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/eng/content/what-discrimination

HOSTILE WORK OR LEARNING ENVIRONMENT: A hostile environment is defined as an environment on campus or work that, through harassing conduct (e.g., physical, verbal, graphic or written) based on a person’s protected status (e.g., sexual orientation, age, etc.), becomes sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to interfere with or limit the ability of an individual to participate in or benefit from a university program or activity.

Source: https://hr.umich.edu/working-u-m/workplace-improvement/campus-commitment/what-hostile-environment

COMPLAINANT: A person, group, or company that makes a complaint, as in a legal action.

Source: http://www.dictionary.com/browse/complainant 

OFFICIAL COMPLAINT FORM

DATE SUBMITTED: ____________________

STUDENT NAME (PLEASE PRINT FULL NAME)

PROGRAM REGISTERED IN

Please outline your complaint, providing as much detail as possible.

(Use reverse side if necessary)

RECEIVED BY:_____________________________ RECEIVED ON:_________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE:

* By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and agree to follow all of Island Career Academy’s Rules and Regulations:

X ________________________________________________________________________

STUDENT SIGNATURE

Island Career Academy’s Sexual Violence Policy

POLICY STATEMENT

Island Career Academy is committed to creating and maintain a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment free from sexual violence and all forms of sexual misconduct. Island Career Academy prohibits any act of sexual violence, including sexual assault, harassment, stalking, and dating or domestic violence, whether committed by a student, employer, or third party affiliated with Island Career Academy.

SCOPE

This policy applies to all members of Island Career Academy’s community including:

• Full-time and/or Part-time Students
• Faculty and staff
• Visitors and Guest Lecturers
• Contractors
• Clients attending the Massage Therapy student clinic

This policy applies to incidents that occur:

• On-campus
• Off-campus, if the conduct negatively impacts Island Career Academy’s environment
• Online/digital if it affects Island Career Academy Community Members

DEFINITIONS

Sexual Violence: Any non-consensual sexual act or attempt to obtain a sexual act through force, coercion, or when the individual is incapable of giving consent.

Consent: A clear, knowing, and voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity. Consent cannot be obtained through force, coercion, or when a person is incapacitated.

Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile environment or is a condition of academic or employment decisions.

Dating/Domestic Violence: Abuse or violence committed by a person who is or has been a romantic or intimate relationship with the victim.

Stalking: Repeated conduct directed at a specific person that causes fear or emotional distress.

Reporting

*Due to the often serious and sensitive nature of acts and/or threats of sexual violence, complainants will be strongly encouraged to report incidents as soon as possible to local authorities. If the Island Career Academy determines the situation

Cape Breton Regional Police

911 - Emergency

(902) 563-5151 - Non-Emergency

*Individuals may also report incidents of Sexual Violence confidentially to:

Island Career Academy Human Resources Dept

• In-person: 721 Alexandra Street Sydney, Nova Scotia B1S 2H3
• Via phone: (902) 564-6112
• By Email: contact information located in student handbook or obtained at front desk

Rights of the Complainant and Respondent

• Right to fair and prompt investigation
• Right to be informed of all available options
• Right to supportive measures (i.e. academic accommodations, no-contact orders)
• Right to have an advisor or support person during proceedings
• Right to appeal outcomes in accordance with Island Career Academy’s Procedures

Investigation and Disciplinary Process

In the event that an incident is criminal in nature and therefore falls under the jurisdiction of the Criminal Code of Canada:

Island Career Academy will provide a safe and secure location for the complainant to contact local authorities and support them until the incident has been safely placed in the hands of the law.

In the event that an incident does not require lawful intervention, Island Career Academy’s Management Team will:

• Management will conduct a prompt, impartial, and thorough investigations to determine if/when any disciplinary actions should be applied or not
• Management will provide findings in a timely manner to all parties involved as per their status in the program and/or any accommodating procedures during training for all parties involved to ensure a safe and positive learning environment for all involved as well as for fellow classmates
• Maintain the highest degree of confidentiality and offer any available support and guidance within our means

Disciplinary Actions may include by are not limited to:

• Warnings
• Probation
• Suspension
• Dismissal from Program
• Termination of employment

Support and Resources

Island Career Academy does not offer on-site guidance services to staff or students and have therefore listed the reliable resources below for any individuals affected by sexual violence:

Local Crisis Centers or Hotlines

https://novascotia.ca/coms/svs/sexual-assault-centres/

National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) offers free, confidential, and secure help 24/7, if the individual needs someone to talk to or help with pressing charges or understanding your healing process.

Call 211 to register the sexual violence complaint. You do not need to provide details about what happened. You only have to say that you were sexually assaulted in Nova Scotia, and that you would like to speak with a lawyer.

Prevention and Education

• The Sexual Violence Policy will be added to the student registration documents and reviewed with the student upon registration.
• The Sexual Violence Policy will be added to Island Career Academy’s rules and regulations and employee handbook for awareness.
• New hires will review and discuss the sexual violence policy upon onboarding.
• Individuals will be given several opportunities and will be encouraged to disclose preferred pronouns and chosen name if they prefer to be referred to by a name other than their legal birth name that appears on their registration forms. Disclosing chosen names and preferred pronouns helps to avoid mis gendering individuals and establishes a welcoming space for all parties regardless of sexual orientation or how an individual identifies. This facilitates an environment that celebrates individual pronoun preferences and welcomes diversity by embracing how individuals identify regardless of their appearance. Upon disclosing preferred pronouns, any individual not adhering to chosen pronouns will be seen as violating this policy and subject to disciplinary actions listed above.

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation against any individual who reports sexual violence, participates in an investigation, or supports a complainant/respondent is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action as listed above.

Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually by Island Career Academy’s Leadership Team and updated as necessary to remain compliant with provincial regulations including the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.