Vermont Technical College prohibits the unlawful possession, use, distribution, or manufacture of illegal drugs, controlled substances and alcohol by employees and students on College property, in any College owned or leased facility, or as part of any College employment or activity.
A copy of this policy, which meets the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, is available by clicking this link: T313: Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy.
Individuals convicted of drug law violations may lose all financial aid, and any loans can become due in full immediately upon conviction.
Improper possession, sale, distribution and use of controlled substances, including but not limited to prescription drugs, is prohibited. Possession of drug paraphernalia is also prohibited.
Alcohol Policies
Vermont Tech is committed to sustaining an academic environment that respects individual freedom; promotes the health, safety, and well-being of all members of the community; and is free from the abuse of alcohol and drugs. Misuse and abuse of alcohol, and the use of illicit drugs, constitutes a threat to that wellbeing and so compromises the educational mission of the College.
The College alcohol policy applies equally to all Vermont Tech students, employees, and guests during the time they are on campus or at campus events. Questions of interpretation of this policy should be directed to the Resident Director or the Office of Student Affairs, Morey Hall, extension 71212. For more information read the full VTC Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy,T313.
Alcohol consumption is only permitted in appropriate residential spaces, see Permissible Alcohol Use below, or in the case of specifically approved events or functions where alcohol is available as part of the refreshments by a licensed seller. Consumption of alcohol in public areas of the College is prohibited.
Substance-Free Residence Hall Areas
No possession or use of alcohol is permitted in substance-free designated areas, regardless of the student’s age. It is the student’s responsibility to know whether he or she is on a substance-free designated floor. There are signs on the hall doors of all substance free floors.
Permissible Alcohol Use
Only students over 21 years of age may possess or consume alcohol. They must be in private residence hall space, not a lounge, hallway, or lobby, with the door closed, and with no minors present.
Those of legal drinking age may not possess alcoholic beverages in the residence hall room of an underage student, or be in the presence of underage students who are in possession of alcohol.
Responsible alcohol consumption requires that a person‘s actions are not disruptive, damaging, or threatening to themselves, others, or anyone‘s property. When alcohol use is permitted, it is always a privilege, never a right.
Allowable Quantities
Each resident, who is twenty-one or older, is allowed to possess one of the following:
• a twelve pack of beer
• 750ml or one fifth of spirits
• one bottle of wine
Students are not permitted to possess or use common sources of alcohol or devices intended for the rapid consumption of alcohol including, but not limited to: funnels; kegs; alcohol misting devices. Such items may be considered aggravating circumstances when considering appropriate sanctions.
Host Liability
When a guest who has consumed alcohol on the host‘s premises does harm to him or herself, to a third party, or College or individual property the host can be held liable. If the host supplies alcohol to a guest, then the host will be held responsible for injuries or damage to the guest or to third parties caused by the guest‘s alcohol-influenced actions. If the host supplies alcohol to a minor, the host will also be responsible and liable for supplying alcohol to a minor, which is in violation of Vermont State Law.
Consumption and/or Possession of Alcohol by a Minor
Under Vermont State law, no one under 21 years of age is permitted to be in possession of any type of alcohol container. There are serious penalties for anyone under the age of twenty-one who purchases or attempts to purchase alcohol by misrepresenting his or her age or by falsifying identification. Minors may not be present in a room where alcohol is being consumed, even if the minor is not drinking and others in the room are of legal drinking age.
Drinking, Substance Abuse and Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs is against the law. Possession of open containers in motor vehicles on campus property is prohibited. Violators are subject to disciplinary action and will be referred to the Vermont State Police. Documented conviction of DUI charges may result in loss of campus vehicle privileges.
Substance Abuse
All community members are encouraged to become informed about substance abuse and its harmful effects. It is a serious problem that may require professional assistance and treatment. Students in need of assistance can seek information and confidential guidance at the Student Affairs office. Staff in this office can also make referrals to outside agencies within the community.
There are significant secondary effects for roommates and friends of those who drink excessively. Roommates and friends report that sometimes they cannot study or sleep because they are worried when a friend gets so drunk that he or she does not return home until the next morning. If a student is worried about a friend, and this concern affects living habits, he or she has the right and responsibility to seek help both personally and for that other person without concern for his or her privacy.
Fines and Penalties for Alcohol Offenses
The following are typical sanctions for alcohol policy violations. The College can, at its discretion, report offenders to the Liquor Control Board or State Police, and can increase or lessen these sanctions based on aggravating or mitigating circumstances. For a more complete list of possible sanctions, click here.
During disciplinary proceedings, empty alcohol containers are counted the same as full or partially empty containers. This includes cans and bottles collected for return to a redemption center.
Failure to comply with sanctions may result in a suspension/dismissal hearing. The nature of the offense and sanctions will be delivered in writing to the student and fines will appear on the student’s bill as an alcohol violation. Students may be responsible for costs of individual meetings with the substance abuse counselor. Community service must be completed within a specific time, and there are penalties for failing to do so.
First Offense
Fine of $75; five hours of community service; parental notification; mandatory alcohol awareness course. A first offense which requires medical transport and/or law enforcement response may be elevated to a second offense at the discretion of the hearing officer.
Second Offense
Fine of $150; ten to fifteen hours of community service; individual session with a licensed counselor, whose recommendations must be followed; parental notification; disciplinary probation.
Third Offense
Fine of $300; minimum fifteen hours community service; individual session with substance abuse counselor, whose recommendations must be followed; parental notification; disciplinary probation, possible housing suspension or expulsion from the College.
Supplying Alcohol to Minors
Counts as a second offense, with these additions: notification to the State Liquor Inspector; possible criminal prosecution; additional fines of $100 for the host and $50 per guest.