Community Policies

COA is required to comply with the Drug Free Campuses Act, as well as the laws of the State of Maine, which include but are not limited to:

• Individuals must be 21 years old to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol in the state of Maine.
• Persons under 21 years of age may not purchase, consume, possess, or transport alcoholic beverages.
• It is illegal to present false identification, either written or oral, in the attempt to procure alcoholic beverages.
• No person may furnish, procure, or deliver alcohol to a minor or allow any minor in his/her control to drink alcohol.
• No person may furnish, procure, or deliver alcohol to/for an intoxicated person.
• Only licensed liquor dealers may sell alcoholic beverages in Maine.
• Charging admission to parties where alcoholic beverages are available “free” is illegal.
• No person may drink alcohol while operating a motor vehicle. In addition, an excessive blood alcohol level (0.08) could result in a suspension of your driver’s license and/or a fine. If you are under 21 years old, the state considers you intoxicated if your blood alcohol level reaches 0.02.
• The consumption of alcoholic beverages in public places is illegal without a special license or permit issued by Maine state officials.

In order for COA to comply with these laws and to maintain a safe campus, the following policy has been enacted:

• All COA students, staff, and faculty are personally responsible for complying with Maine state and local laws regarding consumption, sale, transportation, and procurement of alcohol.
• Individuals under the influence of alcohol will be held fully accountable for their actions, including physical or verbal abuse to individuals, or any action resulting in damage to personal or college property. Intoxication is not an acceptable defense or excuse for disorderly conduct.
• Making reference to alcohol is discouraged in campus advertisements or announcements for social events.
• Consumption of alcohol is prohibited in spaces regularly frequented by the public, including but not limited to Blair Dining Hall; Thorndike Library; Gates Community Center; Deering Common, access ways to buildings; parking lots and drives, hallways, lobbies, and common areas of buildings; formal gardens; and at all COA functions except under conditions noted below.
• At the discretion of the Chief Facilities and Safety Officer or their delegate, any individual who is potentially disruptive or impaired by alcohol must cease his/her behavior upon request.
• Consumption of alcohol in campus housing is only permitted by residents 21 or older, in private student rooms in housing not designated as substance free. Alcohol is not permitted to be stored in common spaces. Any student storing alcohol in a student room will be held responsible for any consequences resulting from the consumption of that alcohol whether by themselves or others. The household and the Resident Advisor will determine further guidelines, with the assistance of the housing office as needed. The household policy must be in accordance with the community guidelines and all members of the household are to share in the responsibility of upholding the policy.
• Alcohol may only be served or consumed at campus events by individuals 21 and over when a licensed caterer/entity with a valid State of Maine liquor license will provide and serve alcohol and has obtained the necessary permits from local and state agencies. In addition, anyone serving alcohol should be qualified to do so, typically demonstrated by having completed certified alcohol server training. Organizers of events should consult with the Chief Facilities and Safety Officer to ensure proper precautions and safeguards have been taken. Examples include receptions for trustees, parents, seniors, closed parties for COA students, faculty, and staff where minors are not allowed to bring or consume alcohol.
• Social functions which provide alcohol must also have a sufficient quantity of non-alcoholic beverages and food available at all times and displayed prominently.

Any community member violating this policy will be held accountable through measures that may include a warning or referral to appropriate social misconduct or personnel procedures. Complaints of social misconduct can be brought through the offices of either the Chief Facilities and Safety Officer or the Dean of Student Life. Violations of Maine laws occur at the risk of the individuals involved – and are not the responsibility of the College.

Amorous relationships between paid professionals (faculty and staff) and students are prohibited at COA. Should any faculty or staff member enter into an amorous relationship with a student, that staff or faculty member will be expected to take unpaid leave for the duration of the student’s time at the college.

Phase Two of the Bias Response Policy was approved by the All College Meeting on May 28, 2025.

Purpose

At College of the Atlantic (COA), we recognize that fostering inclusive, respectful, and responsive relationships—both within and beyond our campus—is central to our educational philosophy of human ecology. This policy reflects our deep commitment to addressing and learning from incidents of bias in ways that align with our shared values of justice, compassion, and interconnectedness.

COA is equally committed to free speech and academic freedom, which are essential components of a vibrant intellectual and democratic community. In solidarity with those who have experienced, witnessed, or perceived acts of identity-based bias, we also affirm our responsibility to nurture a campus climate where all individuals can flourish without obstruction.

This Bias Response Policy offers a framework to report, respond to, and reflect on incidents that intentionally or unintentionally negatively impact individuals or groups based on identity. These may involve sex, race, color, gender (including gender identity or expression), pregnancy, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, religious practices, ethnicity, ancestry or national origin, age, marital or partnership status, genetic predisposition, veteran’s status, citizenship status, socioeconomic status, or any other personal characteristics.

Bias is complex. It can manifest as anything from innocent misunderstandings to systemic or hateful acts, and its impacts may be deeply felt regardless of intent. This policy seeks to adequately define identity-based bias and recommend a voluntary, holistic, and educational process that any community member can follow to address it. The process is available to all—especially:

• Those who believe they have experienced harm
• Those who believe they have witnessed harm
• Those who are concerned that their own actions may have caused harm

While the college provides formal mechanisms for addressing potential misconduct—such as the Social Misconduct Policy, Discrimination Policy, Sexual Misconduct Policy, Grievance Policy, and employment policies outlined in the Faculty and Staff Manuals—this educational process is not meant to override or replace those avenues, or the responsibilities of the committees that govern them. Instead, it is a possible first step in cases where the presence of misconduct is reasonably uncertain, or where participants seek resolution and understanding through reflection and dialogue.

Disagreements and conflict, including those involving identity-based harm, are sometimes best addressed through informal, direct conversation. Community members are encouraged to engage in open, honest, and compassionate dialogue whenever possible. The college supports these efforts with resources and guidance, aiming to cultivate a community grounded in awareness, accountability, growth, and healing.

What is an Act of Identity-Based Bias?

Bias is a universal human trait, widely understood as a preference or prejudice, implicit or explicit, that influences perceptions, behaviors, and decisions. While many biases are harmless, they become harmful acts of identity-based bias when they drive threats, hate speech, or unequal service or treatment. Bias incidents may or may not violate COA’s conduct policies or local/state law, but they are taken seriously because of their potential to undermine our human-ecological commitment to inclusivity, mutual respect, and community well-being.

Identity-based bias may also be harmful when it creates behavior that perpetuates stigmas and stereotypes, such as those associated with legally-protected classes like race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender identity and expression, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, or age.

Categories may also include other existing or emerging expressions of identity the college community wishes to acknowledge as susceptible to acts of identity-based bias via individuals or groups within or beyond COA.

The most severe act of identity-based bias is a hate crime. However, while the definition of a hate crime is encoded in law, what ultimately constitutes other acts of identity-based bias, their severity, or what to do about them, is far less precise and can take time to make sense of.

Although all hate crimes are acts of identity-based bias, not all acts of identity-based bias are hate crimes, and some might be misunderstandings, ultimately unpursued by those impacted by the incident.

Examples of identity-based bias incidents may look like, but are not limited to the following:

• Stereotyping or degrading language in class discussions or public settings
• Vandalism or graffiti targeting specific identities
• Digital harassment or exclusionary social media content
• Cultural appropriation or insensitivity at campus events
• Unwelcome comments, jokes, or gestures related to identity

Rooted in Human Ecology

Our human-ecological framework encourages critical engagement with how bias shapes individual experience and community dynamics. We recognize that bias is not only interpersonal, but also structural and historical. Addressing bias at COA is a process of both response and transformation—educational, ethical, and systemic.

Immediate Response

If there is an incident in progress or you feel unsafe, please call the COA Emergency Line at 207-288-9001 or the 24-hour Student Life Line at 207-266-5890. In a heightened emergency that requires 911 to be dialed first, please call next, if possible, the COA Emergency Line to alert campus authorities of incoming emergency personnel.

Reporting a Bias Incident

Bias can be reported by any member of the COA community—students, faculty, staff, or visitors. We offer multiple channels for reporting:

• Online Reporting Form
• In-person with the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance or Student Life
• Via faculty, staff, or other trusted community member who can help initiate the process

Privacy is prioritized to the extent possible while ensuring community safety and integrity. If you wish to receive confidential support, please contact the Confidential Resource Advisor. More information about this campus resource is included in Section VI.

Confidential Resource Advisor

COA’s Confidential Resource Advisor (CRA) is a possible first-point of contact for anyone wishing to explore informal or formal avenues to address a harmful act of identity-based bias. The CRA does not adjudicate anything or have the power to do so; they cannot officially determine what is or is not biased. Instead, the CRA is specially trained to help you talk things through, build clarity, and decide on your next steps. If you feel uncomfortable interacting with the CRA, another community member may speak on your behalf.

There are no expectations or time constraints on this part of the process, nor are there limits to how many times you can talk to the CRA about a given situation. By engaging the CRA, you are not required to take any additional steps, even those recommended or strongly advised, and the CRA can only take further actions with your consent.

As the CRA is not a mandated reporter, confidentiality is strictly protected, except in situations with clear and imminent danger. Notes are free of identifiable information but may be used to keep track of campus patterns. Insights shared with the college community are generalized and cannot be traced back to individuals.

The Response Process

1. Initial Review – Reports are reviewed by the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance or Student Life to understand the context and urgency.
2. Outreach & Support – Individuals directly impacted will be contacted and offered support, resources, and space for reflection.
3. Next Steps – Depending on the nature of the incident, this may include:
   1. Mediation or facilitated dialogue
   2. Restorative justice approaches
   3. Educational outreach or community response
   4. Referral to Student Conduct or other appropriate office (if policies were violated)
   5. Community Follow-Up – In some cases, broader educational programming or community dialogue may follow to address larger themes.
      1. For incidents that involve an alleged policy violation, the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance will make a determination about whether or not an informal resolution is appropriate.

Accountability with Compassion

In alignment with COA’s values, the bias response process prioritizes learning, restoration, and growth, rather than disciplinary action. We believe in holding one another accountable while also supporting the possibility of transformation and deeper understanding.

Restorative Practices Team

The Restorative Practices Team (RPT) offers a supportive, educational, and voluntary path for responding to incidents of identity-based bias. Rooted in the college’s human-ecological mission, the team helps individuals and groups address the impact of harm in ways that center accountability, relationship-building, and community healing.

The RPT does not adjudicate or recommend sanctions, nor does it have the authority to impose disciplinary action. Instead, the team works collaboratively with those involved—particularly impacted parties—to explore what a constructive and meaningful response might look like. The team recognizes that every incident is complex and unique; therefore, there are no one-size-fits-all outcomes. Responses are shaped through conversation, creativity, and the expressed needs and agency of all participants.

Restorative practices may include:

• Facilitated conversations or restorative circles
• Community or organizational dialogues
• Education and awareness efforts
• Support planning and resource connection
• Mediation, if appropriate and desired

The RPT may also invite various stakeholders into the process when appropriate, aiming to foster understanding at both individual and collective levels. In addition to dialogue, the team may coordinate support services, counseling, educational resources, or community healing initiatives in response to the needs of those impacted.

Importantly, if during the restorative process the nature of the incident appears to involve intentional or serious misconduct, the RPT may recommend that the reporter pursue action through COA’s formal mechanisms—such as the Social Misconduct Policy, Discrimination Policy, or other appropriate institutional processes.

The RPT’s approach reflects a belief that to interrupt harmful bias—especially when it stems from misunderstanding, ignorance, or systemic issues—requires both proven strategies and creative, compassionate responses. By honoring the dignity of all involved, and by focusing on repair over punishment, the RPT contributes to a campus culture rooted in justice, mutual respect, and transformation.

The RPT is made up of not more than seven community members. It shall include at least two faculty members, two students, and two staff members. The Director of Residence Life & Student Experience coordinates the RPT and will facilitate recruitment.

Free Expression and Respectful Dialogue

COA strives to be a place of open inquiry and intellectual rigor. This policy is not intended to limit critical discourse, diverse perspectives, controversial speech, or actions protected under academic freedom, as these may not constitute acts of identity-based bias. We recognize that freedom of expression may produce strong emotions requiring reconciliation between individuals or constituencies. This must be navigated with mutual respect and a commitment to dignity for all.

Resources

• Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance
• Office of Student Life
• COA Counseling Services
• Restorative Practices Team
• Academic Advisors 
• Confidential Resource Advisor

Delegation of Authority and Community Input

This policy will be reviewed as needed by the Student Life Committee in collaboration with students, faculty, and staff and will welcome feedback from the COA community to ensure that the college’s approach to bias response evolves alongside our collective values and lived realities. Additionally, the Student Life Committee has responsibility for determining the procedure for implementing this policy.

Campus Climate Database

The Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance, in coordination with Student Life, will create and maintain a campus climate database, primarily composed of any Bias Incident Reports and any RPT responses. It could also include general information from the CRA and other related reports, documents, and insights from supporting COA committees. This database aims to create data-driven reports, programming, initiatives, and interventions to improve campus life, evolve policy, and catalyze necessary systemic changes.

Retaliation and False Reporting

Retaliation directed at those who report an act of bias or intentional false reporting constitutes a serious violation of College policy and will not be tolerated. Students who do so may be subjected to disciplinary action as described in the Student Conduct Process. Faculty or staff who do so may be subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the Administrative Staff or Faculty Handbook.

Members of College of the Atlantic community, guests, and visitors have the right to be free from discrimination and harassment because of that person’s race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, familial status, pregnancy, ethnicity or national origin, ancestry, religion, age, creed, color, genetic information, physical or mental disability, HIV status, or status as a veteran.

The Discrimination and Harassment Policy is intended to define community expectations, to establish definitions to aid in determining when behavior violates these expectations, and to outline the options available in response to discrimination and harassment for all legal protected statuses. It is the College’s expectation that each individual will exhibit the respect, consideration, and responsibility that would prohibit discrimination and harassment.

If a community member is uncertain about whether they have experienced discrimination, has questions or would like clarification, or need help, they are strongly encouraged to contact any of the following: the Title IX Coordinator, Bias Response Team Coordinator, or the Equal Employment Opportunity officer.

If a community member decides to pursue a complaint, the first person to be contacted in such an event should be the Title IX Coordinator. More information can be found on the Title IX section of the website.

College of the Atlantic, in compliance with and in support of the Drug-free Workplace Act of 1988 and other Federal and State laws, hereby notifies all employees and students that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of controlled substances is prohibited at COA. Individuals will be prosecuted through either the College’s internal policies and/or local law enforcement agencies.

Earth Day is a day to renew the COA community.  It is a day to gather the spirits of the visions that brought us to COA.  As individuals we cling to our visions of social and environmental justice, hoping to the spread their fullness.  However, 250 visions remain scattered.  Occasionally we catch glimpses of the communities [sic] strong commitments.  In order to fire our own flames we need to clarify our understanding of the visions of those around us.  The tool for this enlightenment is a pause.  In our stillness we may open our eyes to all 250 visions becoming a single power.  In this, there is inspiration.  The power of our stillness will reach beyond our own community.

This is a call for EARTH DAY, A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY at COA.  It is the celebration of the artistic and scientific possibility within our community.  Beginning April 22, 1996, COA will replace its class meetings and administrative duties with one day of community renewal.  For one day COA students, faculty, and administration will join together to experience and participate in lectures, musical and literary presentations, student forum, informational sessions, community service and a COA community and family picnic.  The day’s classes will be postponed to the following day, shifting the week’s schedule ahead and eliminating Wednesday meetings.  The annual organization and promotion of this day is the responsibility of the community.  All individuals are encouraged to organize presentations of their own.  In order to insure [sic] involvement, committees will be allocated certain responsibilities.  The following presents the responsibilities of each committee:

Campus Planning & Building – CPBC will be responsible for ensuring adequate space for large community gatherings.  CPBC will be responsible for a campus grounds enhancement project, such as the planting of trees.

Within the CPBC the recycling subcommitee will be responsible for sponsoring an informational session to update the status of community recycling.  Dually the subcommittee will provide future ideas for enhancement of the program.

Internship Commitee – The Internship Committee shall use Earth Day to promote internship opportunities.  Secondly, the committee shall present past successes of COA alumni and graudates.  The committee shall invite area alumni to participate in the celebration.

Admissions Committee – The Admissions Committee should consider inviting prospective students.  Prospective students will experience the fullness of community spirit.  In general admissions can use the day as a promotional device, enabling prospective students to gain a better understanding of COA’s mission.

Student Activities – Student Activities will be responsible for sponsoring a celebratory event for the enjoyment of the entire community.  In particular the committee is encouraged to organize community literary and musical presentations.

Publications and Communications – Publications and Communications will undertake the task of advertisement.  The committee will be responsible for signs on campus and within the Bar Harbor community.  The event will also be advertised on the COA homepage of the World Wide Web.  Prior to Earth Day, Publications and Communications will request the submission of articles to Off the Wall and local newspapers.  Lastly, local radio and television stations will be contacted.

The Library Committee – The Library Committee will be responsible for the display case in the Thorndike Library.

Academic Affairs – Academic Affairs shall open Earth Day at COA with an official welcoming.  A piece to inspire the day’s activities.

Steering Committee – Steering Committee shall be responsible for organizing time slots for certain events throughout the day.  This information shall be passed along to the Publications and Communications committee for advertisement.

Additional responsibilities:

COA community and family will be responsible for a potluck.

COA community will responsible for restoring order to the campus after the conclusion of the day’s events.

SEA will sponsor a student forum.  The forum will address a current debateable [sic] issue.  SEA will also sponsor smaller informational workshops organized by group members.

COA encourages students to claim their education so that they may claim their lives in a way that will make a positive impact in the world.  Earth Day is one day for COA to take responsibility, to take our individual visions and unite them with the community.  In this visionary unification is the realization that making a positive impact on the world is possible.

COA seeks to create and maintain a safe and secure environment in which to learn, work and live. We believe that those in our community expect and will endeavor to keep each other safe and will refrain from engaging in behavior that will endanger others.  This policy is a proactive step towards reducing the risk of harm associated with intentional or accidental use of firearms.

COA prohibits the possession of firearms, concealed or not concealed, with or without a concealed weapon permit, on campus or on property controlled by the college, or in college vehicles. Sworn law enforcement personnel carrying out their duties are exempt from this policy. If any member of the community has an academic reason for needing to have a firearm on campus, that individual can apply for an exemption to this policy by making a request to the Director of Public Safety.

Firearms are defined as any gun, rifle, pistol, handgun or device designed to fire bullets, BBs, pellets, or shots (including paint balls), or other projectiles, regardless of the propellant used and regardless of whether the device is functional or not.

By expressly prohibiting firearms, this policy does not tacitly permit the possession of other weapons.

3/30/16    Unanimously approved by Student Life Committee

I. Anti-Hazing Policy Statement

College of the Atlantic (COA) is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful educational environment. Hazing is strictly prohibited under both federal and Maine state law, and this policy reflects our commitment to prevention, education, transparency, and accountability. Hazing is abusive, degrading, psychologically damaging, and may be life-threatening. It is unacceptable in all forms and has no place in the COA community.

Student groups and organizations are important contributors to a vibrant and positive campus life and are expected to act in accordance with college policy and to treat others with respect. Hazing by individuals and student organizations is prohibited in any form both on campus and off campus.

II. Legal Framework

This policy complies with:

• The Stop Campus Hazing Act (2024), a federal law requiring higher education institutions to increase hazing education, reporting, and public transparency.
• Maine State Law Title 20-A §10004, which mandates hazing prevention policies and disciplinary procedures at educational institutions.

III. Definitions

Hazing

Any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person (whether individually or in concert with other persons) against another person or persons regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that:

• Is committed in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a student organization; and
• Causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the institution of higher education or the organization, of physical or psychological injury.

The following are non-exhaustive examples of conduct that causes or creates such a risk:

• Whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on someone’s body, or similar activity;
• Causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, extreme calisthenics, or other similar activity;
• Causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to consume food, liquid, alcohol, drugs, or other substances;
• Causing, coercing, or otherwise inducing another person to perform sexual acts;
• Any activity that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm through the use of threatening words or conduct;
• Any activity against another person that includes a criminal violation of applicable local, Maine State, Tribal, or Federal law; and
• Any activity that induces, causes, or requires another person to perform a duty or task that involves a criminal violation of local, State, Tribal, or Federal law.

Student Organization

An organization at an institution of higher education (such as a club, society, association, athletic team, club sports team, band, or student government) in which two or more of the members are students enrolled at the institution of higher education, whether or not the organization is established or recognized by the institution.

IV. Policy Scope

This policy applies to:

• All students, student organizations (recognized and unrecognized), athletic teams, and college-affiliated groups;
• All faculty, staff, and advisors involved in student activities;
• Activities occurring both on and off campus, and online; and
• Third-party affiliates acting on behalf of or under the direction of any college group.

V. Reporting Incidents of Hazing

COA encourages the reporting of incidents of hazing and takes every such report seriously. It will investigate all reports diligently and thoroughly in accordance with Social Misconduct Policy and/or Sexual Misconduct Policy. Individuals found responsible for committing, soliciting, encouraging, directing, aiding, or recklessly permitting hazing to occur will be subject to disciplinary sanction that could include:

• Suspension
• Expulsion
• Rescission of permission for an organization to operate on campus property or receive any other benefit of affiliation with the institution
• Other appropriate disciplinary action

These sanctions shall be in addition to any other civil or criminal penalty to which the violator or organization may be subject.

A Note on Mandatory Reporting:

Under Maine Law §10004, all college employees (including faculty and staff) who become aware of hazing must report the incident to the Office of Student Life or the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance.

Any person may report hazing in person, by telephone or by electronic mail, using the contact information listed below:

Josh Luce, Dean of Student Life
207.801.5670

Maya Caines, Director of Residence Life & the Student Experience
207.801.5676

Puranjot Kaur, Title IX Coordinator
207.801.5614

VI. Private vs. Confidential Reporting

COA will respect the privacy of reporters but cannot guarantee confidentiality for hazing reports. The information you provide to a non-confidential resource will be relayed only as necessary to investigate and/or seek a resolution and/or to comply with other appropriate COA policies and procedures, and any federal, state and/or local laws, rules and regulations. COA will limit the disclosure as much as possible, even if the institution determines that the request for confidentiality cannot be honored.

Individuals wishing to maintain absolute confidentiality can seek support from COA mental health counselors and nurses, the COA Confidential Resource Advisor (Pamela Gagnon da Silva, LCPC), from other mental health practitioners or clergy in town, or from various community partners. Campus counselors are available to help you free of charge. These people can offer you confidentiality, discuss options and offer advice without any obligation to tell anyone, except in instances of extreme health and/or safety emergencies.

VII. Amnesty Related to Hazing Reports

COA recognizes that students are sometimes reluctant to report hazing activity, due to a fear of potential consequences for their own conduct. For this reason, the college has adopted an amnesty policy which states that a student who acts in good faith to report activity that may fall within the definition of hazing and/or a victim who cooperates fully as a witness in the investigation and disciplinary process may not be subject to social misconduct sanctions related to their own participation in hazing behavior and other behavior related to alcohol and/or drug violations, as determined by the college in its sole discretion.

In the event amnesty is granted for self-reported behaviors, if evidence is presented that the student has continued to engage in hazing behaviors or has knowledge of hazing activity that was not reported, they may be held accountable for past behavior. Students who choose to report and request amnesty for their own conduct should know that amnesty does not apply to any criminal or civil action that may be taken by any law enforcement agencies.

VIII. Investigation Process

After a report is received, COA will quickly review the submission and determine the next appropriate actions. If a report is criminal in nature, Campus Safety and/or local law enforcement will be contacted. COA will also conduct its own investigation to prevent a recurrence of the alleged hazing and to determine if there are potential violations of applicable policies/processes depending upon the nature of the complaint.

IX. Retaliation

No person may intimidate, threaten, coerce or discriminate against any individual because the individual made a report or complaint, testified, assisted, or participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing under this Hazing Policy and Procedure. Complaints alleging retaliation may be filed according to the Social Misconduct Policy and/or applicable policies within the Employee/Faculty Manuals.

X. Education and Prevention

In accordance with both federal and state requirements, COA will:

• Require annual hazing prevention training for all students, faculty, staff, and student organizations.
• Incorporate hazing education into student orientation and leadership development programming.
• Provide special training for leaders of student groups, including skill building for bystander intervention, information on ethical leadership, and the promotion of strategies for building group cohesion without hazing.
• Clearly post this policy and related resources on the college website and in campus handbooks.

XI. Public Disclosure (Stop Campus Hazing Act)

Beginning on December 23, 2025, the college will publish a bi-annual Campus Hazing Transparency Report, available on its website, that includes:

• Organization name
• Date and nature of the hazing incident
• Investigation outcomes and sanctions
  • This log will maintain a rolling five-year archive.

Additionally, the college will comply with all annual reporting requirements to the U.S. Department of Education.

XII. Policy Review and Maintenance

This policy will be reviewed periodically by the Student Life Committee, in coordination with legal counsel, to ensure compliance with evolving federal and state hazing laws and best practices in student safety.

Adopted June 23, 2025

A student can be charged with misconduct by any member of the College community. The following steps should be taken in any situation except those involving sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct issues are covered in the “Complaint Procedures for Sexual Misconduct” section of this handbook.

For complaints of Academic Misconduct, the Academic Dean or his/her designee will serve as the Chair for the Judiciary Hearing Board; for complaints of Social Misconduct, the Dean of Student Life or his/her designee will serve as the Chair. This judiciary hearing process is an internal COA procedure, separate from and in addition to any legal actions outside the college which may be appropriate.

Generally, it is anticipated that the vast majority of complaints are the result of imperfect communication rather than malice or ill-intent – and can therefore be resolved informally through communication and mediation. If a community member is concerned about the actions of a student, he/she is encouraged to address that student’s behavior directly and respectfully. If a community member is uncertain about how to address the behavior, he/she can seek help and advice from a variety of sources: the Dean of Student Life, the Director of Public Safety, the Academic Deans, the Resident Advisers, or any faculty or staff member he/she feels comfortable with.

In the event that a community member feels uncomfortable confronting a student’s behavior directly, he/she should discuss his/her concerns directly with either the Dean of Student Life or the Academic Dean. They will be able to advise you of your options. In the event that a written complaint is deemed necessary, they can assist you deciding whether an informal or formal resolution is appropriate. Please keep in mind that all parties need to be willing to engage in and complete an informal resolution in order for it to be successful. In the event this is impossible, the complaint will be referred to a judiciary hearing board for formal resolution. A person who feels uncomfortable approaching either of the Dean of Student Life or the Academic Dean should talk with any faculty or staff member who can speak on his or her behalf.

College of the Atlantic receives federal funding through Title IV in the form of student financial aid (grants, loans, and work-study programs) and through federal research grants. As a condition of accepting this money, College of the Atlantic is required to certify that it complies with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) (20 U.S.C. §1011i; 34 C.F.R. part 86). The federal government regulates drugs through the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which does not recognize the difference between medical and recreational use of marijuana. Thus, to comply with the Federal Drug Free School and Communities Act and to avoid losing federal funding, College of the Atlantic prohibits all marijuana use and possession, even that legally certified in the State of Maine for medical purposes, on any campus property and in any college-owned vehicle. Any community member identified as being in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action for its use. First year students with medical marijuana prescriptions/certifications may request a waiver of the campus residency requirement by contacting the Dean of Student Life. Returning students should make arrangements to live off-campus for the duration of their time at College of the Atlantic or until such time as they no longer need to use medical marijuana. Employees will need to make alternate arrangements if they need to use medical marijuana during work hours.

Passed November 11, 2015

Updated May 2024 by the All College Meeting

Parking Regulations

• All COA community members wishing to park their vehicles on campus must register their vehicles with the Office of Public Safety. Students must register their vehicles annually. Staff, faculty, visiting instructors, need only register once per vehicle. Registration is required within the first seven days of the fall term, or within seven days of any term in which the owner/driver of the vehicle becomes a COA community member. Summer program participants will be granted temporary parking passes for the time period of the given program by the summer program staff.
• COA community members are expected to park in designated parking spaces only.
• Due to limited parking availability, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to consider their need prior to bringing a vehicle to campus. Information will be shared by email on beginning and end of term shuttle services.
• Parking at Turrets is reserved for deliveries, visitors and accessible parking only with limited spaces for faculty/staff.
• Parking behind Kaelber Hall is limited to deliveries and accessible parking only. One space in this area is designated for kitchen staff to accommodate frequent trips for supplies.
• Parking in front of the garages at Davis and Witchcliff is reserved for accessible parking and deliveries only. No parking is permitted in the circular drives.
• Deliveries in areas that are designated as such in this plan, are limited to ten minutes or less, and must honor the no-idle policy.
• Overnight/residential parking is located in the lots south of Deering Way. No overnight parking is permitted elsewhere.
• ADA space is available near all major buildings. ADA accessible permits are available from the Office of Public Safety.
• No parking is allowed on the road to, or at the turn around area near, the COA pier. Vehicles using this facility for loading or off-loading must be moved to a designated parking space immediately after completing the task.
• The feature strip of pavers and cobbles by the Whale Skull is designated as a drop-off and pick-up area only: No parking. Vehicles may pull off in this area for a maximum of five minutes, and must be out of the road when stopped.
• Electric vehicle charging stations are for electric vehicles only. Vehicles must be moved to a parking space once charging is complete.
• Bus/van parking is limited to the North lot.
• Any driver who will be away from COA for more than a week who wishes to leave their vehicle on campus must receive approval from the Office of Public Safety and agree to certain conditions before being allowed to do so.
• COA maintenance and service vehicles, as well as contracted service vehicles, are expected to honor the intent of this plan. Though these vehicles may need to park in restricted areas for short periods of time, if they are not being used for direct service, they must be moved to a designated parking space.
• Any community member who is planning to invite guests to the campus is asked to inform them of the campus parking plan.

Snow Management Plan:

During snow events a weather alert will be posted via email from the Office of Public Safety. With the occurrence of such an event, a campus-wide overnight parking lot ban will be in effect as follows:

• Overnight parking is allowed only on the south end of campus.
• Overnight is defined as the hours between 12:01 am and 7:00 am.
• Vehicles parked elsewhere on campus may be towed at the owner’s expense.
• After an announcement that the parking ban has been lifted, all vehicles must be moved to a plowed parking lot as soon as possible. Vehicles not moved within 24 hours may be towed to a plowed lot at the owner’s expense.

No-idle policy:

Vehicles, whether for delivery or otherwise, parked on the COA campus are not allowed to idle for more than five minutes.

Enforcement:

Owners of vehicles found parked in violation of this parking plan will receive written notice with an explanation describing the nature of the violation. A record of the infringement will be filed in the Office of Public Safety. Upon a second violation, the owner of the vehicle will receive a notice explaining the nature of the violation, and warning that a third violation will result in the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense. A third violation may result in the vehicle being
towed, at the owner’s expense, as soon as the call is made. A fourth violation by the same owner will be considered habitual and may result in forfeiture of the right to park at COA.

Exceptions to the two-warning system include blocking a roadway, fire lane, turn-around, ADA accessible parking space or ramp, or failure to register. Parking in any of these locations will result in the vehicle being towed at the owner’s expense without warning.

Any questions or concerns regarding this plan, or other parking related issues, may be brought to the Office of Public Safety at ext. 5690.

For many community members, allowing pets on campus greatly enhances the learning and working environment. The college recognizes that many pets are well behaved and are brought to the campus by responsible persons. Pet owners are expected to consider safety, health and the possible fears others may have in the presence of animals. In order to meet the needs of pet owners while protecting those community members who-have allergies or fears, the following policies will apply when a pet is brought on COA property.

Pets on campus will be well behaved, good natured, and subject to the control of their owners. Dogs should be up-to-date on all shots, have tags with the owner’s name and telephone number, and be licensed with the town (if required).

General Expectations

Please be respectful to all community members if you bring your pet on campus

• Take-A-Break, Sea Urchins Café, the COA community garden, classrooms, labs and studios are off limits to pets. Gates is off limits to pets during large group events. Classroom exceptions will be made when pets are needed for educational purposes. Please notify the Director of Public Safety prior to animals being used in a classroom.
• College employees may have their pets inside their individual offices, as long as it does not present any concern for the health, safety, and well-being of individuals in the building. These pets must be under full control when another person enters the office. A clear sign (e.g., “Pet Inside”) must be placed on the outside of a closed office door when a pet is inside the office. This will provide advance notice and avoid unnecessary startling to any person who may need to enter that office. Employees who bring their pets to work are wholly responsible for making sure that their offices and all other College property remain undamaged and clean of pet-caused dirt or debris. Pet owners must arrange for a meeting location other than their offices for those who prefer to meet pet-free.
• Dogs must be on leashes at all times when on the grounds of the campus. Leashes should be no longer than 6 feet long.
• It is the owner’s responsibility to be aware of their pet’s temperament around people and other animals. Pets showing any aggressive tendencies toward people or other animals are not allowed on campus.
• While on campus, pet owners are responsible for cleaning up waste left by their pet. Failure to clean up the waste will result in the pet no longer being allowed on campus.
• All animal solid waste must be disposed of in outside dumpsters. Please do not dispose of it inside any building.
• Complaints should be directed to Director of Public Safety.
• If any of the above rules are broken, public safety staff will give pet owners two warnings to correct any bad behavior. If the misbehavior is not corrected after the second warning, the Director of Public Safety will ask the owner to leave campus with their pet.
• In the event of an injury resulting from an encounter with a pet on campus the incident should be reported to the Bar Harbor Animal Control Officer. –

This policy doesn’t cover animals in Student housing or service/emotional support animals. Please refer to the student housing contract for information about having a pet in the dorm rooms and to the Service Dog and Emotional Support Animal Policy.

All notices and other printed material should be posted on bulletin boards, informational kiosks, or other designated locations. No item should be posted on walls, doors, woodwork, windows, or any other interior or exterior surface of campus buildings. Any items posted on a prohibited surface will be removed immediately and discarded appropriately. 

In compliance with the Maine Workplace Smoking Act of 1985 and additional legislation in 1993 banning smoking in enclosed public spaces, COA is committed to providing a smoke-free work environment. Smoking is therefore prohibited in and within a 25 foot zone around all college buildings, except for specific designated smoking areas. Smoking is also prohibited in all college owned vehicles.

According to Maine State Law, Smoking” includes carrying or having in one’s possession a lighted or heated cigarette, cigar, or pipe or a lighted or heated tobacco or plant product intended for human consumption through inhalation whether natural or synthetic in any manner or in any form. “Smoking” includes the use of an electronic smoking device.

Community members who smoke are asked to do so in such a way that they do not expose those who do not smoke, to second-hand smoke. Those who want to smoke in areas without a specific designation are asked to be respectful of the needs of those who do not smoke by requesting permission to or refraining from smoking if the area is already in use, or stopping smoking if asked to do so.

Smoke-free areas:

The Newlin Gardens area (the “Red Bricks” area) including the stairways leading to the Newlin Gardens, the Campus Walk (the pathway connecting the Newlin Gardens to the Davis Center), the courtyard of Blair-Tyson, and the courtyard created by Deering Common, Seafox, and the Kathryn W. Davis Residence Village

Designated smoking areas:

The lean-to at Buildings and Grounds, the overhang at the northwest entrance to TAB, the porch of the KWD Residence Village Bike Shed, and the area adjacent to the bike shed at Blair-Tyson. At the discretion of CPBC these areas can be changed or moved.

Students who engage in conduct which harms, or is intended to harm, another person or another’s property in the community (including college property) will be held accountable by the College. Harassing and intimidating behavior is particularly injurious to community life and will likely be subject to significant disciplinary action. The College also expects students to behave in accordance with the community policies outlined below. Social Misconduct may be dealt with administratively or through a Judiciary Hearing process.