Disciplinary Action Process
To be consistent with the type of disciplinary action that a student might encounter once employed, the Ogeechee Technical College Paramedicine Technology and EMS Professions programs’ disciplinary action process is based on a progressive disciplinary model ranging from an Oral Reprimand up to Termination from the Program. This process is intended to address issues of misconduct, including but not limited to insubordination, disrespect of a person(s) or property, and belligerence.
The process is as follows:
1. An Oral Reprimand is a minor infraction of the code of conduct and a written record will be placed in the student’s program file. This record will stay on file for the remainder of the semester in the event further action is necessary.
2. A Written Warning may be issued if a problem persists (or more problems emerge). The instructor will provide the student with a written warning detailing the objectionable behavior along with the reasonable Corrective Action Plan that outlines the consequences for noncompliance. A copy of the warning will be placed in the student’s program file. The student will receive a copy of the written reprimand.
3. A Final Written Warning will be issued if performance does not improve. A copy of the Final Written Warning and previous warnings will be forwarded to the Dean of Academic Affairs. A copy will also be maintained in the student’s program file. The student may be restricted from attending class, lab, field, or clinical activities until a Corrective Action Plan can be determined by the Program Director and/or the Dean of Academic Affairs. The student will be informed of the decision within three working days. This action may include termination from the program.
4. Termination Level Offense may be issued in cases where the student has repeatedly shown contempt by violating the code of conduct of the program, dishonoring the reputation of the college, and/or shown disregard of the rules and regulations of a clinical or field affiliate. Termination may be the result of a progressive problem(s) and/or the result of a Termination Level Offense.
Termination Level Offenses are not limited to the following:
• Threats to Health or Safety: Any behavior that endangers the health or safety of clients, their families, healthcare team members, fellow students, or faculty may result in disciplinary action, including immediate removal from the program. In some cases, the action may warrant permanent dismissal.
• Unprofessional Conduct: A student may be dismissed if, in the judgment of the faculty, their behavior is deemed detrimental to the integrity of the paramedicine technology program or the EMS profession.
• Breach of Confidentiality: Violations of patient, peer, or institutional confidentiality—whether intentional or unintentionally may result in immediate dismissal from the course or program.
• Substance Use - Being under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or misused prescription medication while engaged in classroom, lab, or clinical activities is grounds for dismissal.
• Violation of Professional or Academic Standards:
Violating the Academic Integrity Code
Acts of theft or dishonesty
Other serious breaches of professional conduct
• Clinical Site Access Denial - If a clinical site denies a student the ability to return—for any reason, including conduct outside of the paramedicine technology program—the student will not be reassigned to another site and will be dismissed from the program.
• Excessive Unexcused Absences: EMT and AEMT students can only have two unexcused absences per semester. Paramedic students are only allowed one unexcused absence per semester.