The Federal civil rights laws, including Title IX, make it unlawful to retaliate against an individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by these laws. This means that if an individual brings concerns about possible civil rights problems to a school’s attention, including publicly opposing sexual harassment or filing a sexual harassment complaint with the school or any State or Federal agency, it is unlawful for the school to retaliate against that individual for doing so. It is also unlawful to retaliate against an individual because he or she testified, or participated in any manner, in an OCR or school’s investigation or proceeding. Therefore, if a student, parent, teacher, sponsor coach, or other individual complains formally or informally about sexual harassment or participates in an OCR or school’s investigation or proceedings related to sexual harassment, the school is prohibited from retaliating (including intimidating, threatening, coercing, or in any way discriminating against the individual) because of the individual’s complaint or participation. Individuals who, apart from official associations with SKC, engage in retaliatory activities will also be subject to SKC’s policies insofar as they are applicable to third party actions.

SKC will take steps to prevent retaliation against a student who filed a complaint either on his or her own behalf or on behalf of another student, or against those who provided information as witnesses. Complaints of retaliation will follow the same process of investigation, hearing, and appeal.

If it is determined under the preponderance of evidentiary standard (more likely than not to have occurred) that a student is responsible for retaliation the following sanction will be imposed.

• Suspension – Exclusion from enrollment in classes and other privileges or activities for a definite period of time not to exceed three years and until the conditions which are set forth in the hearing outcome letter are met. Students who are suspended from SKC are not permitted on campus or in campus buildings, facilities or activities at any time for any reason during the period of suspension, unless otherwise directed by the Dean of Student Affairs. Conditions to conclude a suspension and reinstatement process will be stated in the written notification. Notation on the transcript is not made; however, a permanent record of the action is maintained in the student’s record. Any refund of tuition or fees will be subject to SKC’s normal withdrawal policy.