Drug Free Environment
In accordance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, Vernon College prohibits the possession, use or distribution of illegal drugs and alcohol on College premises or as part of any College sponsored event. The College has developed this policy, not only in response to the federal drug-free legislation, but also in an attempt to provide a healthy environment by preventing the use of illegal drugs or the abuse of alcohol within the College community.
Information on the effects of specific drugs and alcohol, and drug counseling resources in Vernon, Wichita Falls, and surrounding areas is available through the Vernon campus Health Care Clinic or by contacting a Student Success Coach in the Student Services office at the appropriate campus location. Student Success Coaches are trained to assist students through counseling and referral to specialized substance abuse programs.
Legal Sanctions
Various federal, state, and local statutes make it unlawful to manufacture, distribute, dispense, deliver, sell, or possess with intent to manufacture, controlled substances. The penalty imposed depends upon many factors, including the type and amount of controlled substance involved, the number of prior offenses, if any, and whether any other crimes were committed in connection with the use of the controlled substance. Possible sanctions include incarcerations up to and including life imprisonment and imposition of substantial monetary fines.
Disciplinary Sanctions
The College will impose sanctions against individuals who are determined to have violated rules prohibiting the use, manufacturing, possession, or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol. Individuals may be immediately removed from the College property. Sanctions for individuals using, manufacturing, or possessing illegal drugs or alcohol may include disciplinary probation and in appropriate cases, suspension or expulsion from the College. Parents or legal guardian of underage students may be notified. Individuals involved in the sale and/or manufacturing of illegal drugs will be suspended from the College and referred to the appropriate authorities for criminal prosecution.
At the discretion of the Chief of Police, with approval from the Vice President of Student Services, a temporary ban from college properties may be placed on individuals who violate campus policies.
Gang Free Zones
In accordance with Texas Education Code 51.973, all Vernon College facilities are officially designated as gang-free zones.
Individuals who are 17 years or older and engage in gang activity in a gang-free zone will face enhanced penalties. The punishment for these crimes are elevated to the next highest category of offense. For example, a third-degree felony offense committed in a gang-free zone would become a second degree felony. A second-degree felony would become a first-degree felony.