Rules and Regulations

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.

• 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

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.

Passing Grades for Entrance Requirements:

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.
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.

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.

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.

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 all courses/subjects within the training program and have no more than two (2) failures in order to be eligible to re-enroll and repeat courses/subjects within the training program.

* Massage Therapy students must successfully complete a minimum of sixty (60) percent of all courses/subjects within the training program and have no more than two (2) failures in order to be eligible to re-enroll and repeat courses/subjects within the training program. Additionally, the Massage Therapy student must have no more than one (1) failure in practical courses.

Practicum placements are an integral component of many programs at Island Career Academy. These placements provide students with hands-on experience in professional settings related to their field of study.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for practicum placement, students must:

• Meet all academic grade requirements as outlined in the Academic Grade Policies section
• Maintain attendance levels above 80% throughout the academic portion of their program
• Complete all required coursework and assessments prior to placement
• Have no outstanding financial obligations to the Academy
• Complete all required background checks, certifications, and health requirements as specified by the program and placement site

Placement Process

The Academy will work with students to secure appropriate practicum placements. However, students are expected to:

• Actively participate in the placement preparation process
• Conduct themselves professionally during all practicum-related activities
• Comply with all policies and procedures of the practicum site
• Complete all required documentation and evaluations

Practicum Conduct

During practicum placement, students must:

• Adhere to the dress code and professional standards of the placement site
• Maintain confidentiality of all client/patient information in accordance with applicable privacy legislation
• Follow all health and safety protocols
• Report any concerns or incidents to both the placement supervisor and Academy staff immediately
• Complete all required hours and competency demonstrations

Practicum Failure

If a student fails to successfully complete practicum requirements, they may be required to repeat the practicum placement. Additional fees may apply. Students who demonstrate serious professional misconduct during practicum may be dismissed from their program.

*Transportation to and from practicum sites is the responsibility of the student. The Academy cannot guarantee placement locations within any specific geographic area.

Island Career Academy is committed to providing a safe learning and working environment for all students, staff, and visitors. This policy outlines the procedures for identifying, assessing, and managing risks within our facilities and programs.

Risk Identification

The Academy conducts regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards including:

• Physical hazards in classrooms, labs, and common areas
• Equipment-related risks in practical training areas
• Health and safety risks associated with specific program activities
• Security concerns related to building access and emergency procedures

Student Responsibilities

Students are required to:

• Report any safety hazards or concerns to staff immediately
• Follow all safety protocols and procedures
• Use equipment and facilities only as instructed
• Participate in emergency drills and training
• Inform staff of any personal health conditions that may require special accommodations or emergency response procedures

Emergency Procedures

Emergency evacuation routes and assembly points are posted throughout the facility. Students must familiarize themselves with these procedures and participate in all emergency drills. In the event of an emergency:

• Follow instructor and staff directions immediately
• Evacuate in an orderly manner using designated routes
• Assemble at the designated meeting point
• Do not re-enter the building until authorized to do so

Incident Reporting

All incidents, injuries, or near-misses must be reported to staff immediately. An incident report will be completed and appropriate follow-up action will be taken. Students who fail to report incidents may face disciplinary action.

Island Career Academy is committed to protecting the privacy of student information in accordance with applicable privacy legislation including the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Collection and Use of Information

The Academy collects personal information from students for the purposes of:

• Admission, registration, and enrollment
• Academic record-keeping and transcript preparation
• Financial account management
• Program delivery and student support services
• Compliance with regulatory requirements
• Statistical reporting (in aggregate, de-identified form)

Disclosure of Information

Student information will only be disclosed:

• With the written consent of the student
• As required by law or court order
• To authorized government agencies for regulatory compliance
• In cases where there is a clear threat to the health or safety of the student or others
• To third-party sponsors (e.g., student loan programs, employers) as authorized by the student

Student Records

Academic records are maintained securely and retained in accordance with applicable regulations. Students have the right to:

• Access their own academic records
• Request corrections to inaccurate information
• Receive copies of their transcripts (fees may apply)
• File a complaint if they believe their privacy rights have been violated

Third-Party Information Requests

Requests for student information from third parties (including parents, spouses, employers, and other educational institutions) will only be fulfilled with written authorization from the student or as required by law.

Directory Information

The Academy may release limited directory information (name, program of study, dates of attendance, credentials earned) unless a student submits a written request to withhold such information.

*Students who have questions or concerns about their privacy rights should contact the Academy administration.

Island Career Academy recognizes that some individuals have sensitivities or allergic reactions to scented products. To promote a healthy and inclusive environment for all students and staff, we maintain a scent-sensitive environment.

Scent-Free Guidelines

All students, staff, and visitors are asked to:

• Refrain from wearing perfumes, colognes, and other scented personal care products
• Use unscented or fragrance-free personal hygiene products
• Avoid using scented hand lotions, hair products, and cosmetics
• Refrain from bringing scented candles, air fresheners, or similar products to the Academy

Rationale

Exposure to scented products can trigger reactions ranging from mild discomfort to severe health issues for individuals with sensitivities. Symptoms may include:

• Headaches and migraines
• Respiratory difficulties
• Nausea and dizziness
• Skin irritation
• Asthma attacks

Compliance

Students are expected to comply with this policy as a courtesy to fellow students and staff who may have sensitivities. While it may not be possible to eliminate all scents, everyone is asked to make reasonable efforts to minimize the use of scented products.

*Students who have concerns about scent exposure should notify Academy staff so that appropriate accommodations can be considered.

Policy Statement

Island Career Academy has zero tolerance for sexual violence in any form. Sexual violence includes, but is not limited to:

• Sexual assault
• Sexual harassment
• Stalking
• Indecent exposure
• Voyeurism
• Distribution of sexually explicit materials without consent
• Any form of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of all parties

Scope

This policy applies to all students, staff, instructors, and visitors on Academy premises or participating in Academy-related activities, including:

• All Academy buildings and facilities
• Practicum placements and off-site learning activities
• Academy-sponsored events
• Online platforms used for Academy purposes

Consent

Consent must be:

• Freely given - without coercion, threats, or intimidation
• Informed - all parties understand what they are consenting to
• Ongoing - consent can be withdrawn at any time
• Specific - consent to one act does not imply consent to other acts

Consent cannot be given by someone who is:

• Incapacitated by alcohol or drugs
• Unconscious or asleep
• Unable to communicate due to physical or mental condition
• Below the legal age of consent

Reporting

Students who have experienced or witnessed sexual violence are encouraged to report it. Reports can be made:

• To any instructor or staff member
• To the Director of Programs
• To Academy administration
• Directly to local police

Reports can be made in person, by phone, or in writing. Students may choose to remain anonymous, though this may limit the Academy's ability to investigate and respond.

Support Services

Students affected by sexual violence will be provided with information about:

• Local sexual assault support services and counseling
• Medical and health services
• Police and legal services
• Academic accommodations and support

Investigation and Response

All reports of sexual violence will be taken seriously. The Academy will:

• Conduct a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation
• Protect the privacy of all parties to the extent possible
• Take interim measures to ensure safety if necessary
• Apply appropriate disciplinary action if the complaint is substantiated
• Provide ongoing support to all parties

Disciplinary Action

Students found to have engaged in sexual violence may face disciplinary action up to and including:

• Formal written warning
• Suspension from the program
• Expulsion from the Academy
• Referral to law enforcement

Non-Retaliation

Retaliation against anyone who reports sexual violence or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

Education and Prevention

The Academy is committed to preventing sexual violence through:

• Student orientation programs that include sexual violence awareness
• Ongoing education about consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention
• Clear communication of this policy to all students and staff
• Regular review and updates of policies and procedures

*This policy is reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect current best practices and legal requirements.

Island Career Academy is committed to providing a learning and working environment that is free from harassment, discrimination, and bullying. All students have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.

Policy Statement

The Academy prohibits all forms of harassment, discrimination, and bullying. This includes, but is not limited to, behavior based on:

• Race, color, or ethnic origin
• Religion or creed
• Age
• Sex, gender identity, or gender expression
• Sexual orientation
• Marital or family status
• Physical or mental disability
• Source of income
• Political belief or affiliation
• Any other characteristic protected by law

Definitions

Responsibilities

All students are responsible for:

• Treating others with respect and dignity
• Refraining from any form of harassment, discrimination, or bullying
• Reporting incidents of harassment, discrimination, or bullying
• Cooperating with investigations
• Supporting a culture of respect and inclusion

Reporting

Students who experience or witness harassment, discrimination, or bullying should report it to:

• Any instructor or staff member
• The Director of Programs
• Academy administration

Reports will be handled confidentially to the extent possible and investigated promptly and fairly.

Investigation and Response

All complaints will be:

• Taken seriously
• Investigated promptly and impartially
• Handled with sensitivity and discretion
• Resolved through appropriate action

Disciplinary Action

Students found to have engaged in harassment, discrimination, or bullying will face disciplinary action, which may include:

• Formal written warning
• Mandatory education or counseling
• Suspension from the program
• Expulsion from the Academy

False Complaints

While the Academy encourages reporting of all incidents, knowingly making a false complaint is a serious matter and will result in disciplinary action.

No Retaliation

Retaliation against anyone who reports harassment, discrimination, or bullying, or who participates in an investigation, is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.

All students are required to acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to comply with the Anti-Harassment/Discrimination and Bullying Policy.

Student Acknowledgement

By enrolling at Island Career Academy, I acknowledge that:

• I have received a copy of the Anti-Harassment/Discrimination and Bullying Policy
• I have read and understand the policy
• I understand that harassment, discrimination, and bullying are prohibited
• I understand my responsibilities under this policy
• I understand my right to report incidents and the complaint resolution process
• I understand that violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion
• I agree to treat all students, staff, and visitors with respect and dignity
• I agree to contribute to a positive, inclusive learning environment

Commitment to Respect

Island Career Academy is committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive environment where all students can learn and succeed. We expect all members of our community to uphold these values and to speak up when they witness behavior that falls short of these expectations.

Island Career Academy is committed to addressing student concerns and complaints in a fair, timely, and respectful manner. This process applies to complaints regarding:

• Program delivery and instruction
• Services and facilities
• Administrative processes and decisions
• Student conduct matters
• Other Academy-related issues

*Complaints related to harassment, discrimination, bullying, or sexual violence should follow the procedures outlined in the respective policies.

Informal Resolution

Students are encouraged to attempt informal resolution before filing a formal complaint:

1. Direct Discussion: When appropriate and safe to do so, students should first attempt to resolve the issue directly with the person involved
2. Instructor/Department Head: If direct discussion is not appropriate or successful, students should discuss the matter with their instructor or the relevant department head
3. Program Coordinator: If the issue remains unresolved, students may bring the concern to their Program Coordinator

Formal Complaint Process

If informal resolution is unsuccessful or inappropriate, students may file a formal complaint:

Appeal Process

If a student is not satisfied with the resolution, they may appeal to Academy administration within 10 business days of receiving the decision. The appeal should:

• Be submitted in writing
• Clearly state the grounds for appeal
• Include any new evidence or information

Academy administration will review the appeal and provide a final decision within 10 business days. This decision is final.

External Review

If a student is not satisfied with the Academy's final decision, they may contact:

Protections

• Complaints will be handled confidentially to the extent possible
• Students will not face retaliation for filing a complaint in good faith
• Students may continue their studies during the complaint process unless safety concerns require interim measures

Timelines

Complaints should be filed as soon as possible after the incident or issue occurs, preferably within 30 days. The Academy may decline to investigate complaints filed more than 12 months after the incident unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Island Career Academy maintains high standards of student conduct to ensure a positive learning environment for all. When a student violates the Academy's rules, regulations, or policies, disciplinary action may be necessary.

Grounds for Disciplinary Action

Disciplinary action may be taken for violations including, but not limited to:

• Violation of the Student Code of Conduct
• Academic dishonesty (plagiarism, cheating)
• Attendance below required levels
• Harassment, discrimination, or bullying
• Sexual violence or misconduct
• Insubordination
• Threats or violent behavior
• Theft or vandalism
• Possession or use of weapons, illegal drugs, or alcohol on Academy premises
• Failure to pay fees when due
• Conduct that endangers the health or safety of others
• Any behavior that disrupts the Academy's operations or learning environment

Progressive Discipline

The Academy generally follows a progressive discipline approach, though serious violations may result in immediate suspension or dismissal:

Immediate Dismissal

The Academy reserves the right to dismiss a student immediately, without progressive discipline, for:

• Violent or threatening behavior
• Possession of weapons
• Sexual assault or serious sexual misconduct
• Possession or sale of illegal drugs
• Theft of Academy property or property of others
• Any behavior that poses an immediate threat to health or safety

Disciplinary Process

1. Notification: The student will be notified in writing of the allegations and any interim measures (e.g., interim suspension)
2. Meeting: The student will be given an opportunity to meet with the Director of Programs to discuss the allegations and provide their perspective
3. Investigation: The Academy will investigate the matter, including interviewing witnesses and reviewing evidence
4. Decision: The Director of Programs will make a decision based on the investigation and notify the student in writing
5. Appeal: Students may appeal dismissal decisions (see Appeal Process below)

Appeal Process for Dismissal

Students dismissed from the Academy may appeal the decision by:

• Submitting a written appeal to Academy administration within 5 business days of receiving the dismissal notice
• Clearly stating the grounds for the appeal
• Providing any new evidence or information

The appeal will be reviewed by Academy administration, and a final decision will be provided within 10 business days. The administration's decision is final.

Consequences of Dismissal

Students who are dismissed:

• Must leave Academy premises immediately
• Are not entitled to a refund except as required by the Refund Policy
• Will have the dismissal noted on their academic record
• May be banned from Academy premises and events
• May not re-apply for admission without approval from Academy administration

Record Keeping

All disciplinary actions are documented and maintained in the student's file. This information is confidential and will only be disclosed as required by law or with the student's written consent.

In accordance with the Private Career Colleges Regulation section 52(4), a college must refund tuition and program material costs to a student or third-party sponsor as follows:

(5) Clause (4)(c) 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:

• (a) 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;
• (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) Where a third-party sponsor pays tuition on behalf of a student, any refund must be returned to that third-party sponsor.

Students are responsible for ensuring that all tuition and fees are paid according to the payment schedule outlined in their enrollment agreement.

Payment Methods

The Academy accepts payment by:

• Cash
• Debit card
• Credit card (Visa, MasterCard)
• Money order or certified cheque
• Bank transfer
• Government student loan/grant programs
• Third-party sponsorship (employer, government agency)

Payment Schedule

Payment schedules are outlined in the student enrollment agreement. Students must adhere to their payment schedule to avoid account arrears.

Accounts in Arrears

An account is considered in arrears when a scheduled payment is more than 10 days overdue. Students with accounts in arrears may:

• Be prohibited from attending classes
• Not receive grades, transcripts, or diplomas
• Not be permitted to write exams
• Not be placed in practicum
• Be dismissed from the program

Financial Hardship

Students experiencing financial hardship should contact Academy administration as soon as possible to discuss options. The Academy may be able to:

• Arrange a modified payment schedule
• Provide information about student loan programs
• Discuss deferral or withdrawal options

Collection of Outstanding Accounts

Accounts that remain in arrears despite attempts to resolve the matter may be referred to a collection agency. The student will be responsible for all collection costs.

Additional Fees

Additional fees may apply for:

• Exam re-writes: $60.00
• Late payment charges: as specified in enrollment agreement
• NSF (insufficient funds) cheques: $25.00
• Duplicate diplomas or transcripts: $25.00
• Course material replacement: cost of materials

Parking is available for students at Island Career Academy. Use of the parking lot is a privilege that comes with responsibilities.

Parking Lot Use

• Students may park in designated student parking areas only
• Reserved spaces (staff parking, accessible parking, visitor parking) must not be used by students
• Park within marked parking spaces only
• Do not block driveways, fire lanes, or access to other vehicles
• Observe posted speed limits (typically 10 km/h in parking lots)

Vehicle Conduct

• Drive safely and courteously at all times
• Yield to pedestrians
• Do not race, spin tires, or engage in other dangerous driving behaviors
• Do not loiter in the parking lot or in vehicles
• Do not play loud music that disturbs others
• Do not leave vehicles running unattended

Safety and Security

• Lock vehicles and secure valuables
• Report any suspicious activity to Academy staff
• Report any accidents or vehicle damage immediately
• The Academy is not responsible for theft, damage, or loss related to vehicles or their contents

Smoking in Parking Lot

Smoking is permitted ONLY in the rear parking lot area, away from building entrances, windows, and air intakes, in accordance with the Nova Scotia Smoke Free Places Act and the Designated Smoking Areas policy outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

Winter Conditions

• Snow removal operations may require vehicles to be relocated
• Park only in cleared areas
• Exercise extra caution in winter weather conditions

Violations

Students who violate parking lot policies may:

• Receive a verbal or written warning
• Have their vehicle towed at their own expense
• Lose parking privileges
• Face disciplinary action in accordance with Academy policies

Limited Availability

Parking availability is limited. The Academy does not guarantee parking spaces for all students. Students are encouraged to carpool, use public transportation, or arrange alternative transportation when possible.