Notification of Parents or Guardians (11.30.2006)

Coker College recognizes that students are still developing independence and accountability.  In order to foster this growth, we treat our students as adults who are responsible for their own actions and who must take ownership for the quality of their own educational experience through active participation in college life.

Coker College also realizes that parents and guardians of young adults hold a deep concern for the well-being and happiness of their sons and daughters while they are enrolled in college. In recognition of that interest from parents, Coker College expects students to initiate and maintain regular communication with parents about their academic and social progress in college.

The federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the confidentiality of student records and specifies those occasions in which information can be disclosed without the student's prior consent. This right to privacy lies with the student upon his/her enrollment at any college or university. In most cases, students will be encouraged to inform their parents themselves in the event that academic, disciplinary, or health and safety problems arise.

However, Coker acknowledges there may be a need for the College to notify parents directly in some circumstances.  In accordance with regulations within the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), although Coker College is not obligated to do so, the College reserves the right to contact parents or guardians of dependent students under the following circumstances:

1.      When the student's enrollment is threatened by disciplinary action or poor academic performance;

2.      When the student's whereabouts are unknown and there is concern for his/her safety and well being; (see Missing Student Policy in the Student Handbook)

3.      When the student poses a threat to the safety or personal well-being of him/herself or others;

4.      If the student if found responsible, through the College judicial process, for violating a local, state, federal law, or institutional policy regarding alcohol or other controlled substances while on campus or otherwise representing the College; or

5.      When there is a health or safety emergency resulting in hospitalization.