Plymouth State University
Skip Navigation
Key Policies & Procedures

University System of New Hampshire Policies

USNH Policies and Protocols

Everyone at Plymouth State University is subject to both the obligations and the protections of University System of New Hampshire policies. Some key policies are listed below. For information on additional policies and procedures, please refer to the PSU Student Handbook available online at plymouth.edu/stulife/handbook/handbook.

A Fair and Safe Learning Environment

Plymouth takes seriously its responsibility to provide a safe and fair place in which to learn. As such, it is the responsibility of all staff members to deal honestly, fairly and respectfully with students, co-workers and all other individuals associated with the University. PSU actively supports these policies. For more information or to discuss any of these policies, please call your Program Coordinator.

Non-Discrimination

Plymouth State University, in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran's status or disability, in admission or access to, treatment of or employment in its programs or activities. Inquiries regarding this policy should be made to the Vice President for Student Affairs, Plymouth State University, Plymouth, NH 03264. Further inquiries may also be addressed to the Director, Office of Civil Rights, United States Department of Education, Washington, DC 20201.

Sexual Harassment

All faculty, staff and students have a right to work and learn in an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment, including freedom from inappropriate, offensive or harassing behavior. Such behavior violates Plymouth State's policy, as well as state and federal law. Any faculty, staff or student who violates this policy is subject to disciplinary action.

Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

  • Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working or academic environment
  • Submission to, or rejection of, such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting the individual, or
  • Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or academic work.

It is not possible to list every type of behavior that could be considered sexual harassment. The circumstances under which the behavior occurs have an impact on whether or not it is considered or perceived to be sexual harassment. Here are some examples:

  • Unwelcome sexual propositions
  • Graphic comments about a person's body
  • Sexually suggestive objects or pictures in the workplace
  • Derogatory or sexually explicit statements about an actual or supposed sexual relationship
  • Derogatory, gender-based humor

It is important to note that you cannot assume conduct is acceptable simply because an individual does not openly protest against it. In addition, some conduct may be considered sexual harassment even if it is not intended as such. In general, common sense is your best guide—treat other individuals fairly and with respect.

Any reported incident involving sexual harassment by a faculty or staff member of the University must be reported to the Human Resources Director, a Vice President, the Dean of Student Affairs or University Police. There is no right of confidentiality by any University faculty or staff member regarding this type of violation. Reporting is mandatory by law.

Privacy and Disclosure of Education Records: The Buckley Amendment

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), also referred to as the Buckley Amendment, affords students certain rights with respect to their education record. An explanation of these rights can be found at plymouth.edu/stulife/handbook/rights/ferpa.htm.

Drug-Free Environment

Plymouth State is fully committed to ensuring a drug-free environment. As a student, you are required to comply with the drug-free policy, which states that you are prohibited from the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of any controlled substance or alcohol in or around the campus or classroom.

Smoking

As required by law and in recognition of the health hazards of smoking and second-hand smoke, PSU prohibits smoking in all buildings and facilities, including offices, classrooms and laboratories, studios, libraries, theaters and auditoriums, gymnasiums and athletic areas, and public reception areas. Smoking may be allowed in specifically designated outdoor areas. Smoking is not allowed within 20 feet of any Plymouth State University building or controlled premise, adjacent to air intake units, outside stairways or on entrance ramps. Smoking may also be prohibited in areas reserved for events where the sponsor determines the interests of non-smokers need to be protected. Some examples are graduation ceremonies, University receptions and events, groundbreaking ceremonies and outdoor concerts.

Right to Know about Toxic Substances

You have a right to know if you are exposed to toxic substances in the course of your learning experience.

Plymouth State University, 17 High Street, Plymouth, NH 03264-1595. Main Switchboard: (603) 535-5000.
A member of the University System of New Hampshire. ©2005-2008. All rights reserved.
This page was last revised: 1/3/2008