Digital Handbook

To successfully engage in each class, students will need:

• Computer or laptop (tablets and smartphones are not sufficient).
• Working microphone and camera on your computer or laptop (or connected to it).
• High-speed internet.
• Web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. We recommend Chrome or Firefox.
• Access to Zoom.
• Phone or camera for taking high-resolution pictures of your work.
• Course specific software (found in the course supply list if applicable).
• Adequate lighting for your face.
   

Canvas is the learning management system that you will use during the program. It is an online space that is used for course materials, links to live class sessions, assignments, discussions, feedback, and instructor announcements. Communication on how to access Canvas will be sent to the primary email associated with your registration account. For students under the age of 18, the primary email address is typically the parent/guardian email.
                            
You will be able to access your course on Canvas two weeks prior to the course’s start date. At 12 am EDT (4 am UTC) on the start date of the course, content will be unlocked and you will be able to participate.
                            
Bookmark the Canvas login for future use, as this is where you will regularly access your course materials.
                            
If this is your first time accessing a course on Canvas, follow the steps below to set up your account prior to the start of class:

• Visit Canvas and select “Forgot Password.”
• On this screen, enter your username, which is the same username as your cereg.risd.edu username. Then you will receive an email with a link to set up your Canvas password.
• You can then log in using your username and your new password. Both your username and password are case sensitive. If you change your username on our registration site, your Canvas username will remain the same as above, and can not be changed.

Online learning requires significant engagement with technology including hardware, software, and the internet. Check that all of your personal equipment, software, and services are in good working order prior to the first class.
                            
If you have any issues accessing your account, Canvas provides resources on how to best navigate the platform and resolve issues. Links to Canvas support are provided in the class portal. Review these links when you first log in and throughout the course.
                            
If you are 18+, you can call 877 249-5405 or chat online with the Canvas Support Hotline. Click on the question mark icon in the far-left global navigation menu.
                            
If you are under 18, a parent or guardian may use the 24 hour Canvas Support Hotline or you may contact the RISD IT Services Help Desk during normal business hours. You can reach them at 401 454-6106 or servicedesk@risd.edu.

We recommend taking the following steps to ensure that you are ready for the first day of classes:

• Test all technology (including your camera and microphone, internet connection, Zoom access, and screen sharing) before your first class.
• Identify and set up your workspace in advance.
• Read the syllabus and orientation module before the first class meeting.
• Read any instructor announcements in a timely manner. Those may include clarifications on homework or reminders before class.
• Have all materials needed for the day on hand.
   

To maintain an effective learning environment free of distractions for yourself and your classmates, be sure to:

• Find the quietest space you can for your Zoom meetings.
• Turn off all notifications and make sure your cell phone is on silent.

Pre-College Online courses should be treated like any other in-person learning environment. We expect each student to:

• Follow all requirements, including keeping your camera on and being present for the duration of the class. If you need to turn off your video, reach out to the instructor before the class meeting.
• Only attend the Zoom class you are registered for. You may not attend a class of a different section.
• Be visible on camera with adequate lighting.
• Stay seated during a Zoom meeting, not reclining or walking around. If you have to recline or move around in order to participate, communicate your needs with your instructor. Contact Disability Support Services if you need an accommodation.
• Keep your microphone off unless you are speaking.
• Be presentable in your clothing. Dress as you would in any other classroom.
• Use a virtual background that is non-distracting. Avoid using animated backgrounds.
• Mute your audio and turn off your video if you need to leave the meeting briefly.
• Attend your classes—no one may attend the class on your behalf.

We expect each student to be courteous to one another and their instructors. Some courteous behaviors include:

• Being attentive while others are presenting. Stay focused on the class and remove any distractions.
• Taking turns speaking. Use the hand raise function or raise your hand on camera.
• Limiting private chats with others in the class during the meeting.
• Avoiding eating during meetings unless the instructor has specifically encouraged this. 
   

Each student should maintain a sense of privacy for themselves and others. This includes: 

• Protecting your personal information. Keep all personal and sensitive information private. This includes contact information and login information.
• Respecting other students’ privacy and intellectual property. Keep their personal and sensitive information private, and obtain permission before sharing anyone’s work.
• Using a virtual background at all times during your Zoom meeting to protect your privacy.
• Respecting your instructor’s intellectual labor. Obtain their permission before sharing any of their content.
• Making sure your Zoom display name matches your name in Canvas.
   

To set yourself up for success, we recommend that you:

• Familiarize yourself with Pre-College Online student resources and reach out prior to the start of classes. Be proactive rather than wait until you are struggling.
• Block off your calendar for your live sessions and time for homework for each course. Communicate your schedule to family, bosses, coaches, or other relevant adults.
• Review all policies and procedures in this handbook and on the website.
• Have all materials needed for your classes purchased and on hand by the first meeting.
• Identify and set up your workspace in advance.
• Test all technology (including your camera and microphone, internet connection, Zoom access, and screen sharing) before your first class.
• Read the syllabus and orientation module before the first class meeting. 
   

Whether you’re working out of your bedroom or your kitchen table, treat your workspace like your personal studio. Keep it clean and free of clutter so you can work whenever you need to. Here’s what would make a suitable workspace:

• Continual access throughout the program.
• A large, flat surface to work on (a large table or floor space).
• Protective coverings for floors, carpet, wall space and valued items.
• Space and storage for your art supplies. Keep these organized.
• A place for your computer or laptop. Place this where you can sit comfortably for the duration of your class times, and where the camera has a good view of you.
• Wall space to hang your work for presenting during class, and for pinning reference images to. Large sheets of foam core can protect your walls from excessive pin holes.
• A mirror large enough to view your work in.
• Good lighting for your face while on camera, for your work surface, and for your display wall.
• Somewhere you can photograph your work. This should have:
  • A clean, white background (wall, paper, or fabric).
  • A clear background free from distracting items.
  • Even, white lighting. Daylight bulbs or flood lamps are good options.
     

While participating in Pre-College Online, we expect you to:

• Prioritize your health and well-being. Keep all your personal, physical, and mental health support systems in place during the program.
• Check your inbox regularly for instructor announcements. You’ll see these in Canvas, and they’ll be sent to you via email.
• Stay in communication with your instructor; read their messages, and keep them informed of anything impacting your participation. All communication with instructors and the teaching assistant (TA) takes place during Zoom sessions or through Canvas, not through email.
• Advocate for yourself. Let your parents/guardians know if you have any issues, but you are responsible for addressing them, just as you would in college.
   

In order to manage your time effectively, we suggest that you: 

• Plan ahead for the time commitment. Set aside the proper time you'll need to focus and complete the program successfully. Here’s what you can expect for your workload:

• Begin your homework within 24 hours while the directions are fresh in mind. If you wait until you are ready, you might never get it done.
• Practice self-care. Make sure you are eating, staying hydrated and getting enough sleep every night.

One of the significant advantages of online learning is the ability for students to keep their current support systems in place while engaging in college-level learning and expectations. This includes personal well-being, both physical and mental, which may include feelings of insecurity while adjusting to the culture of critique. These and other emotional responses are a completely normal part of maturing and gaining independent creative learning habits.

Students and parents should maintain all current, familiar, and local resources, and acquire new support as needed. This can take the form of tutors, mental health practitioners, primary and specialist physicians, and support groups. For information on the resources RISD provides to our online students, refer to our Student Resources .

All communications between student and instructor or teaching assistant occur through the Canvas inbox, not direct email. Instructors will typically respond to student inquiries within 48 hours. Instructors are directed not to communicate directly with parents, guardians, or anyone other than the student. Parents, legal guardians, or emergency contacts listed on the student registration who have questions can contact the Pre-College team at precollege@risd.edu or call 401 454-6200. Inquiries are responded to during normal business hours.

If you experience a mild health concern that prevents you from participating in a class, notify your instructor as soon as possible. Once you are feeling better, follow up with the instructor to catch up with your coursework. If you experience a more serious health concern or illness that prevents you from participating for several days or more, a parent or legal guardian should contact the Pre-College team at precollege@risd.edu or call 401 454-6200. Inquiries are responded to during normal business hours.

If a student has a family emergency that affects their ability to participate for several days or more, a parent or legal guardian should contact the Pre-College team at precollege@risd.edu or 401-454-6200. Inquiries are responded to during normal business hours. If a student is minimally affected (missing 1–2 days of course engagement and is emotionally well), notify the instructor as soon as possible and make arrangements to catch up on coursework.

If you are in need of administrative or registration support, contact us for help. We typically reply within 48 hours.

precollege@risd.edu
401 454-6200

The Student Orientation module teaches students about Pre-College Online, how to use Canvas, student experience, advising, and online resources. Enrolled students will gain access to the Student Orientation in Canvas prior to the start of classes.

Access RISD digital campus resources, join upcoming virtual events, and learn more about RISD through our Campus Link. 

The office of Disability Support Services (DSS) assists students who have cognitive (learning), psychological, physical, and chronic medical disabilities. If you need accommodations to participate in any class, program, or event, contact DSS before submitting your application. They can share what accommodations can and cannot be provided during the program. Students should reach out as early as possible to ensure accommodations are in place before your first day of class. Modifications cannot be made to the program structure, academic requirements, or course curriculum.

The Pre-College programs accommodation request process differs from the K–12 accommodation process. In K–12 schools, parents/guardians are often the primary advocates for students, and teachers may approach students if they suspect a disability. However, in Pre-College programs, it is the student who is responsible for self-identifying and contacting Disability Support Services, providing documentation for eligibility, and requesting accommodations for each class before the program starts.

Disability Support Services will meet with you to discuss the request. If approved, they will develop an accommodation letter based on your documentation. Once approved, you will receive a letter or email outlining the accommodations. You will need to communicate with each instructor about how the accommodations will work for each class. You will also be given the option to have letters sent to your instructors by Pre-College staff. Accommodations cannot be made retroactively.

Contact Disability Support Services by email at disabilitysupportservices@risd.edu or phone at 401 709-8465.

RISD’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) works with the Providence Police and Brown University Police departments to maintain a safe campus environment and support the educational mission of the college. You can find them patrolling campus on foot, bike, and in distinctively marked cruisers. Members of RISD’s Public Safety team—also trained as EMTs—work 24/7 to maintain a safe environment. 

You will receive a course syllabus for each class. The syllabus is your introduction to the course and an outline of the individual instructor’s policies and Pre-College Online standard policies. Keep and refer to syllabi during and after the program.

Our instructors are art and design professionals who offer you a wealth of knowledge in their area of art and design expertise. They are available to help you if you are ever uncertain about course content, instructions, or are struggling with an assignment. You are encouraged to ask questions or seek clarification about the parameters of an assignment. Instructors are also artists and most likely have experienced what you’re going through and can provide you with advice to navigate it successfully. 

Art making is often subjective and can be about personal experiences or ideas. Students and instructors will not always agree, but negotiating the space of maker and critic is part of being in art school. It starts here in conversation with your classmates, TAs, and instructor. 

When differences of viewpoints occur, address your concerns directly with the instructor. Be open to the suggestions and reasonings being presented. If a situation arises where you do not feel your concerns have been adequately addressed by the instructor, reach out to the RISD Pre-College team. To ensure equitable, open, and clear communications, a mediation between the instructor, student, and a mediator will be scheduled.

Courses that include figure drawing use anatomical images of the human figure. These images portray nude bodies to build understanding of kinesthetics and anatomy of the human form.

Students are prohibited from producing images of themselves or their peers in a stage of full, partial, or suggested nudity. Artwork that contains sexually explicit content or other themes that might be harmful is not allowed. Students are welcome to create artwork on themes of sexual orientation and gender identity as long as they contribute to a safe environment. If you are unsure if your idea is appropriate, speak with your instructor before beginning the project.
 

RISD seeks to help its students realize their fullest intellectual, artistic, and personal potential through a distinctive combination of studio and liberal arts courses. The College values the creative process and freedom of expression. The College also honors its responsibility to protect the values and standards of an academic community.

The College recognizes the need for risk-taking and experimentation in a challenging art, design, and liberal arts education. Moreover, the long history of appropriation, subversion, and other means of challenging convention in the arts may, at times, complicate attempts to definitively codify forms of acknowledgement/attribution. With that said, forms of experimentation that do challenge these boundaries must at all times adhere to the fundamental value underlying academic conduct at RISD: honesty in the creation and presentation of one’s work as well as in one’s relations to others and their work.

Academic writing follows conventions of documentation and citation. Others’ ideas—whether quoted directly or paraphrased, whether taken from a book, website or lecture—must be clearly attributed both to provide a record of the writer’s research and to avoid plagiarism (presenting another’s ideas as one’s own.) 

In the studio culture, the conventions governing the use and reference to others’ work are less clearly defined than in academic writing. These conventions are often defined by particular disciplinary histories and practices and are best addressed in the context of the particular studio experience. Given the wide variety of disciplinary histories, conventions, traditions, and practices applicable to liberal arts and studio activities, the individual instructor defines, within reason, what constitutes academic misconduct within the context of a given course.

Academic misconduct compromises the academic integrity of the College and subverts the educational process. Primary, but not exclusive, kinds of such misconduct are:

• Cheating: The use of unauthorized information, study aids, or other materials, communication with, or copying from another student on papers, projects, tests, or other academic work. It is the responsibility of students to consult with their faculty concerning what materials and types of collaboration are permissible.
• Plagiarism: The passing off of someone else’s ideas, writing, or work as one’s own is plagiarism, including content generated by artificial intelligence (AI). Appropriate methods and forms of attribution vary by discipline. Some courses will include instruction in appropriate conventions for citation and attribution within the field. Students are expected to seek out relevant guidelines on their own (the RISD Center for Arts & Language offers resources and guidance), to ask faculty when in doubt about standards, and to recognize that they are ultimately responsible for proper citation.
• Falsification and Fabrication: The attribution of information or material included in one’s work to a false or fabricated source, or the falsification or fabrication of the information or materials themselves, including content generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
• Unauthorized Reuse: The submission of work to satisfy requirements for one course that has previously been submitted for another course. Students are expected to create new work in specific response to each assignment, unless expressly authorized to do otherwise.
• Unfair Academic Advantage: For purposes of the Academic Code of Conduct, Unfair Academic Advantage is the theft, destruction, or defacement of, or other interference with the work of other students for the purpose of gaining academic advantage. This includes but is not limited to the engagement in activities that place other students at an academic disadvantage, such as theft, concealment, including content generated by artificial intelligence or alteration of needed resources or other materials; or other manipulation of the academic system in one’s favor.
• Noncompliance with Course Expectations: The violation of specific course expectations set forth in a syllabus or otherwise provided to the student by the instructor whether verbal or written.

The following procedures are intended to provide guidance to faculty/instructors on handling and reporting cases of suspected academic misconduct and to inform students on the procedure for adjudicating charges of academic misconduct.

If academic misconduct is suspected, the faculty/instructors may first speak with the student prior to any action taken to help determine whether the suspicion is warranted. If so, the instructor may then confer with Pre-College Online administration. The administration may consult the director of Student Conduct and Community Standards for recommendations or student consult.

“Preponderance of the Evidence” is the standard of proof used to decide all student conduct matters which includes but is not limited to Academic Misconduct. Preponderance of evidence is a less rigorous standard than the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard and “clear and convincing” standards and means that “it is more likely than not” that the respondent(s) engaged in the alleged misconduct.

Mistakes and failures during Pre-College Online are viewed as teachable moments in preparation for college life. Instructors, staff, and administration are here to support students through the process of the conduct review and outcomes. It is expected that students are open, honest, and forthcoming about their participation in or witnessing any policy breach. 

If a faculty/instructor suspects that a student has engaged in academic misconduct, in addition to discussing the matter with the student, the faculty/instructor may elect to require the student to redo the assignment correctly, in accordance with academic standards, or reduce the grade on the assignment. If the assignment grade is lowered to a ‘D’ or higher, and if the faculty/instructor feels no further punitive action is necessary, the incident will be considered a “teachable moment.” The grade appeal process is available to provide the student with due process should they feel the faculty’s/instructor’s grading was unfair.

If the behavior is determined to be part of a repetitive pattern or is deemed to be egregious or disruptive to the classroom environment, student body and/or RISD community, further action, such as a “no pass” grade or removal from the program, may be determined by the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs or designee.

Attendance is considered attending live classes on time and staying until dismissed. Participation includes engaging in critique and discussion boards, completing and uploading your work, being active in the course portal, and responding to the instructor and teaching assistant in a timely manner. Pre-College Online requires your full participation from first class through the final class. Skipping the final meeting or not completing the final project may result in a failing grade and loss of a certificate of completion.

Only students who are registered for a course may attend its meetings and access the course. Friends, families, or anyone else may not attend or participate in place of the registered student. To ensure accurate attendance, all students must have their video camera on and be visible during live class sessions.

Absence from class for any reason does not relieve the student from the responsibility of completing all assigned work. Missing class or assignments may adversely affect the student’s final grade.

Any student who is consistently unprepared for class, has excessive absence, is inactive in the course portal, neglects coursework, lacks English proficiency, or is disruptive to instruction may be dismissed from the program. Absences and tardies are recorded daily and are considered in final grades. 

Excessive absence or lateness may result in a No Pass grade. Excessive absence or lateness is defined as absent more than once, absent on the final day, or arriving after attendance is taken on more than one occasion.

Making up a missed class

If you have an unavoidable absence, contact your instructor to discuss make-up options. Depending on the reason for absence, an instructor may decline to offer make-up options or may reduce the grade for a late assignment.

Make-up work does not fully replace attending class. There will always be information and valuable dialogue that can only happen in class. Each assignment and discussion will build upon the week before. To get the most out of your courses, we strongly encourage you to always attend when possible. Classes will not be recorded. 

Medical Absences

If you are unable to attend class due to illness, notify your instructor immediately to find out how to make up for missed work. Our instructors are sensitive to your medical needs and will help you catch up. Absences due to medical reasons are still considered absences and may affect your grade.

Absence for Family Events

Outside of the live class sessions and live webinars, your time is yours to manage. Between live meetings and asynchronous coursework, we hope you are able to attend family events and enjoy the summer. However, make sure that you will have internet access any time you need to complete synchronous or asynchronous coursework, especially if you are traveling. Absences due to travel or family obligations are considered absences and may affect your grade.

Each instructor develops the content and criteria for reviewing and grading your performance. Some factors include class participation, quality of work, receptiveness to new ideas, as well as attendance and behavior.

Occasionally, in addition to an instructor review and grade assessment, there may be an academic and/or program review. This is a written notification provided to the student citing behaviors, attitudes, and/or actions that are not in keeping with program standards. This may result in a student who has or has not performed well in class to receive a significant reduction in their grade, fail the course, and/or be dismissed.

The instructor will invite the student to discuss the academic review and any issues hindering student performance. They will make an action plan with the student to course-correct and proceed forward in a positive manner.

When significant issues arise, or the student has incurred more than one academic review, they might be directed to meet with a program administrator. This allows the instructor and other students to stay focused on the curriculum while the student is being reviewed. This is an opportunity to discuss what challenges the student is experiencing to identify support and solutions.

An academic review may expand into a broader performance review which can include policy adherence, behavior, attendance, exhibition participation, information from campus partners, and code of conduct breaches.
 

Students may request a letter of recommendation from one instructor. This letter can be used for college applications or job applications. Request your letter from one instructor whom you feel understands you and your work. Each instructor has their own policy on how they determine who to provide a letter for; find out your instructor’s policy before the end of the program. Let them know that you would like to ask them for a letter of recommendation and for what purpose. Send them any details they should know, such as what school you are applying to and what program. In some cases, the school will request the instructor’s name and email address and will contact them directly for the letter.

Drafting a personalized letter takes time, so give your instructor at least three weeks before the deadline to write it. If your first choice denies your request, you can request it from a different instructor. Attending Pre-College Online is not a guarantee to receive a letter of recommendation.

Pre-College Online courses are Pass (P) or No Pass (NP). Each instructor has their own assessment methods and grading policies. You can find these in their syllabi. They will review these with you on the first day of class. 

A grade of “I” is assigned only when a student cannot complete coursework due to extenuating circumstances. It is given only at the student’s request and at the instructor’s discretion. The time allowed for completion of work may not exceed four weeks after the end of the semester in which the student took the course. Work not completed within this period receives a final grade of “No Pass.” Extensions may be available in extenuating circumstances that are pre-approved by RISD Continuing Education.

After successful completion of the program, you will receive a certificate of completion. Successful completion means you receive a Pass (P) in both courses.

About four weeks after the program ends, your grades will be available in the Student Portal. You can view your grades and print an unofficial transcript under “My Enrollment History + Transcript.” We are unable to share grades by email or phone.

Once grades are available, you may request your transcript at our Transcript Request page. There is a fee to process each request.

RISD does not offer credit for Pre-College Online. RISD is in agreement that the optimum value for our students is in their transcripts and the ability for students to request letters of recommendation from their instructor. These elements, along with improvement in skill sets and the artwork created, can weigh heavily in favor of college applicants at institutions worldwide. 

It is entirely up to the student’s home institution (high school or college) as to whether they will accept credit for the student’s coursework from another institution. Many criteria, beyond whether the coursework is listed as for credit or not, are considered by the home institution. Some of these may include the student’s current academic standing and curricular track, the institution’s academic policies, and the content of the coursework being considered for credit. One institution cannot guarantee that another program or institution will accept their credit unless they have a pre-established agreement. Most institutions will assess our syllabi and the student’s work, in combination with RISD’s reputation of excellence, in their decision-making process.

Students should retain copies of all Pre-College Online syllabi to present to other current home institutions to assist in their assessment of possible credit.    
 

All students have the right to be graded fairly and to understand how a course grade is determined. It is the instructor’s responsibility to set the grading policy for their course and use their best judgment in evaluating and grading students’ work. Once an instructor submits grades for a class with the Continuing Education office, the grades are recorded on the student’s permanent record.

A student who is not satisfied with their final grade may appeal it by following the grade appeal procedure. Once a student contacts an instructor regarding a grade appeal, records of all graded material must be maintained by both the student and the instructor until the matter is resolved. If the instructor is not available, or no longer works with Continuing Education, the program manager will act on behalf of the instructor.

Grades may be appealed for the following reasons:

• The student alleges there was a computational or clerical error; the instructor made a mistake in the computation of the course grade, or RISD CE made a clerical error in processing the grade.
• The student alleges that there were unannounced alterations of assignments, grading criteria, or computational process as stated in the syllabus; or the grade departs from the standards of evaluation set forth in the syllabus.
• The student alleges unequal application of grading standards or grading criteria in a manner that treats them differently.

Grades may not be appealed for the following reasons:

• The student disputes grades for individual assignments or aspects of coursework other than the final grade. No new or revised coursework can be requested by the student or accepted by the instructor as part of a grade appeal process.
• The student’s interpretation of the syllabus, such as claims that an instructor’s standards are too high, that assignments are unreasonable, or that other course-related practices or expectations applied to the class as a whole (e.g., an instructor’s policy regarding attendance or missed deadlines) are unfair.
• The student comparison of grade policy with different courses or different sections of the same course.
• The impact of a grade on a student’s academic progress or eligibility for scholarships, veteran’s benefits, or financial aid.

Grade appeal policy

All communications must be done in writing between the student and instructor, beginning with the Informal Grade Appeal within four weeks of receiving the grade. A Formal Grade Appeal must be initiated within six weeks of receiving the grade.

Informal Grade Appeal: If the student believes their grade is incorrect, unfair, or needs further explanation, they must discuss the matter first with the instructor. The instructor responds to the student with an explanation of the grade. In most cases, the discussion between the student and the instructor should suffice and the matter should not need to be carried further. If the instructor decides a grade change is warranted, they must notify the student and submit the new grade in writing to the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs (or designee) , along with a reason for the grade change. If the instructor does not believe there is merit for a grade change, they notify the student of their decision. If the matter is not resolved, the student may follow the Formal Grade Appeal process below.

Formal grade appeal: 

1. If, after discussion with the instructor, the student is not satisfied or has additional questions or objections, they must write to the instructor and the instructor will respond specifically addressing the student’s questions and/or objections. If the instructor agrees that a grade change is warranted, they will submit the change in writing. The associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs should be copied on all communications and will contact the student in writing with the results.
2. If the matter remains unresolved, the student should contact the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs in writing with their concerns. At that time, the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs will review the request with the appropriate program manager, who will contact the instructor to review their grading policy, included in the course syllabus and specifics regarding the grade, to make a decision regarding the merit of the grade change request. The program manager will inform the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs, who will contact the student in writing with the result of this discussion.
3. If the matter remains unresolved, the student may request a meeting with a review committee. In addition to the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs, the committee will consist of the director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs, and/or other designated staff. The associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs will contact the student in writing with the result of this discussion. Should the instructor decline to change the grade, they are to provide a written explanation for refusal. If the committee decides to deny the student’s appeal, the decision is final and the matter will be considered closed.
4. If the committee believes that the student’s grade appeal has merit after the instructor refuses to change the grade, it will arrange for an alternate instructor (or related professional) to review the student’s course work and make a final recommendation of the grade. After considering the alternate instructor’s review, the committee will then determine whether the grade should be changed. The associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs will notify the student and the instructor of the decision and ask the instructor to implement the grade change within ten days. If the instructor continues to decline, the associate director, children, youth and pre-collegiate programs will change the grade, and notify the instructor and the student of this action.

Participants in Pre-College Online are engaged in the mutual pursuit of both academic and artistic excellence and social responsibility. The purpose of this Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct is to establish standards for the ways in which we interact with each other in that pursuit and the procedures and consequences for dealing with instances in which those standards are not met.

The Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct is neither a criminal nor a civil code and does not operate like one. Our expectations for our fellow participants are a significantly higher standard of conduct than the bare minimum prescribed by law; conduct that is legal may nevertheless still be unacceptable within the bounds of our community.

The standards, procedures, and consequences set forth in the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct are intended to serve primarily not as a punitive system, but, rather, as an extension of RISD’s educational mission to guide students in their growth as members of the RISD and broader communities.

The Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct applies to the online conduct of all Pre-College Online students upon their registration into the program. The Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct also applies to online behavior and conduct of students that, in RISD’s judgment, involves or affects RISD or other members of the RISD community, such as conduct in connection with:

• Academic work or other RISD-related educational activities and experiences, such as class projects and field trips;
  Activities sponsored, conducted, or authorized by RISD or its student organizations;
• Activities that cause or threaten harm to the health, safety, well-being, or property of RISD or members of the RISD community, including the student themselves; or
• Activities that unreasonably disturb the peace and privacy of the RISD community. The Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct applies to all such conduct by a student in RISD Pre-College Online. Moreover, RISD continues to have authority to administer the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct with respect to any such conduct by a student while a student is in Pre-College Online, even if the student subsequently completes Pre-College Online, withdraws, takes leave, or is otherwise absent from RISD, and even if RISD does not learn of such conduct until after the student completes Pre-College Online, withdraws, takes leave, or is otherwise absent from RISD.

Students also continue to be subject to federal, state, and local laws while attending RISD. While those laws are separate and independent from the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct and impose different standards, violations of the law may also constitute violations of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct. In such instances, RISD may take action under the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct independently of any other legal proceeding involving the same conduct and may impose consequences for violation of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct even if such other proceeding is not yet resolved or is resolved in the student’s favor.
 

As used in the Code: 

• “Campus” means all lands, buildings, and facilities owned, leased, operated, or used by RISD. “Campus” also extends to digital spaces managed by RISD including Canvas and Zoom classes.
• “Student” means an individual who has paid a registration fee to participate in Pre-College Online. For purposes of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct, “student” status begins at the time of such payment, or commenced instruction, and continues until such time as the student completes the program, formally and permanently withdraws, or is expelled. A student who has been suspended continues to be considered a “student” for purposes of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct.
• “Members of the RISD community” means Pre-College Online and other students, instructors, staff, volunteers, and Agents; visitors to the RISD campus; and people and entities within the vicinity of the RISD campus.
• “Preponderance of the Evidence” is the standard of proof used to decide all Pre-College Online student conduct matters. Preponderance of evidence is a less rigorous standard than the “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard and “clear and convincing” standards and means that “it is more likely than not” that the Respondent(s) engaged in the alleged misconduct.
• “Respondent” means the individual responding to an allegation that the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct violation(s). 
   

RISD expects its students to conduct themselves in recognition that they are members of a community engaged in the mutual pursuit of academic and artistic excellence and social responsibility and, therefore, to comply not only with base legal requirements, but also with additional, higher standards that enable and promote that pursuit. Towards that end, all students must:

• Comply with all federal, state, and local laws applicable to their activities; and
• Comply with all RISD Pre-College Online & Academic Rules; general RISD rules and policies found at risd.edu applicable to their activities, such as RISD’s academic misconduct policy, computer use policy, policy on discriminatory harassment, alcohol and substance abuse policy (zero-tolerance), and environmental health and studio safety rules (Pre-College Online rules prevail when they are more stringent than general RISD rules).
• Not engage, or attempt to engage, in any other form of conduct that they reasonably should know is unacceptable within the RISD community. Representative, but not exclusive, examples of such unacceptable conduct include:
  • Interference with teaching, learning, and other activities – (a) Disrupting, obstructing, or interfering with the appropriate atmosphere for teaching and learning, other RISD-related activities, and other legitimate activities of other members of the RISD community, and (b) breaching the peace of other members of the RISD community.
    Legitimate criticism or other statements of opinion, expressed in a respectful manner, is not a violation of this provision. Determination of whether particular conduct violates this policy is made on a case-by-case basis, in light of all the known facts and circumstances.
  • Harm to others – a) Engaging in harassing, abusive, threatening, intimidating, endangering, fear-provoking, dishonest, deceptive, coercive, or harmful behavior toward others (including but not limited to verbal, written or electronic means including social media posts, or statements or actions of bias or hate against any protected class/status) b) causing physical harm to another person on or off college premises, at college-sponsored activities, or causing reasonable belief of such harm.
    For the purposes of this violation, harm to others is defined as verbal, written, online, and/or physical conduct that a reasonable person would determine to be severe, persistent, or pervasive, impacts educational opportunities and does not include constitutionally protected activity. Legitimate criticism or other statement of opinion, expressed in a respectful manner, is not a violation of this provision. Determination of whether particular conduct violates this policy is made on a case-by-case basis, in light of all the known facts and circumstances. RISD may take action on conduct that it deems to be inappropriate, regardless of whether it rises to the level of a violation of law.
  • Discrimination and Discriminatory Harassment (including Sexual Misconduct)– RISD is committed to creating and providing a learning, living, and working environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students, faculty, and staff. RISD prohibits discrimination and discriminatory harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, national origin, veteran status, and/or genetics or any other protected categories. In addition, the College is committed to addressing sexual misconduct when it impacts our campus community.
    Discrimination and discriminatory harassment, including sexual misconduct, are processed under RISD’s Nondiscrimination Policy. This Policy and its Procedures are overseen by Equity & Compliance and reinforced by this Code of Student Conduct.
    Scope and enforcement of sanctions for students found in violation of either of these policies resides within the Office of Student Conduct + Community Standards. Visit Equity & Compliance for more information about the procedures and policies (including policy definitions).
  • Weapons –  (a) Using, (b) displaying, or (c) possessing objects or substances whose primary purpose is to cause or threaten harm, inflict a wound, cause injury, or incapacitate and has no valid educational purpose is expressly forbidden. This includes but is not limited to firearms, pellet guns, ammunition, slingshots, billy clubs, metal knuckles, bludgeons, switchblade knives, bowie knives, hunting/fishing or concealing or carrying any knife with a blade longer than 3 inches per Rhode Island Law, explosives, dangerous chemicals such as tear gas or mace, instruments that launch projectiles, any 3-d printed weapon or firearm (whether functioning or not), or any toy or model, even if otherwise permitted by law; or using any other objects or substances to cause or threaten harm.
  • Drugs, alcohol, and other harmful substances – Using, possessing, or distributing, or voluntarily remaining in the presence of others who are using, possessing, or distributing, drugs or drug paraphernalia, alcohol, or other harmful substances in a manner that is prohibited by law or RISD policy, that is for purposes other than those for which they are intended, or that otherwise is potentially harmful to oneself or others.
    RISD Pre-College Online has a policy of zero tolerance for such student involvement with drugs and alcohol, regardless of whether the student is involved directly or only by remaining in the presence of others involved, and regardless of whether the violation occurs on or off campus. Students found responsible for violating the RISD Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct in this regard will be immediately dismissed from the program.
  • Harm to property – (a) Stealing, (b) destroying, (c) damaging, or (d) misusing the property or services of others, or (e) possessing or using others’ property or services without their authorization. Students who find items left unattended are expected to take those items to RISD Public Safety at their earliest convenience.
  • Failure to comply/non-compliance – (a) Failing to comply with the instructions or warnings of RISD officials including, but not limited to, RISD Pre-College Online instructors and staff, RISD staff and faculty, RISD Public Safety or any other persons acting on behalf of the College in accordance of their duties, (b) obstructing them in the course of performing their duties, or (c) refusing to provide them with identification when requested; or (d) failing to comply with the terms of any consequences imposed under the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct or any behavioral contracts entered into under or apart from the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct is prohibited.
  • Dishonest conduct – (a) Furnishing false information or (b) making a false report to RISD officials, or (c) falsifying, altering, or misusing RISD records, (d) any violation of the Academic Code of Student Conduct, (e) Using or possessing a RISD ID other than one’s own (f) Creating recordings of any meetings, class lectures or critiques without the express consent of the meeting holder and participants, instructor, lecturer, guest critic or other persons who are being sought to be recorded is considered to be a violation of this Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct.
  • Interference with the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct administration – (a) Interfering with participation or administration of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct or (b) retaliating against anyone for participating in the administration of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct is forbidden. A choice by a community member to not participate in any part of the student conduct process will not delay the resolution of alleged violations through the student conduct system.

Applicability

Because the purposes of the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct are different from the purposes of law, the procedures by which the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct are implemented are, by design, more informal and less adversarial than those of a court. The following procedures generally will be followed in reviewing and determining allegations of misconduct under the Pre-College Online Code of Student Conduct. At RISD’s sole discretion, however, these procedures may be supplemented or modified as appropriate to the situation. The standard of proof required is a preponderance of evidence, i.e., the evidence demonstrates that it is more likely than not that the conduct occurred. 

Cases involving or including charges of sexual misconduct as well as academic misconduct will be reviewed and determined under separate RISD Procedures.

Procedures

Program Conduct Meeting: Any alleged Pre-College Online Code or General program violations which could result in dismissal are usually determined by associate director and/or their designee. Violations that warrant such a Program Conduct Meeting include but are not limited to: academic and classroom behavior; illegal drugs or alcohol, or any other illegal behavior; repeated violations of community standards; environmental health and safety;. The procedure for the processing such violations is as follows:

The student will be given notice to report to a designated office (via a virtual meeting) at a designated time. 

The student will meet with the associate director of student and operational success or designee, to discuss the student’s involvement in the incident. Under the preponderance of the evidence standard, iIf the student is found to have more likely than not committed the violation, the following sanctions are possible, which include, but are not limited to: 

• a formal written warning;
• educational or work assignment (project, presentation, service, mandatory class or instruction, etc.);
• probation; and/or
• dismissal from Pre-College Online.
   

No tuition or fees are refunded to students who are asked to leave the program for violation of RISD policies.

Students may appeal their student conduct outcome for behavioral reasons by submitting an appeal letter to the director of children, youth and pre-collegiate programs/associate director, student & operational success within 24 hours of being sent the written hearing decision communication. Appeals will only be considered on one or more of the following grounds which must be included in the justification for the appeal:

• The student is presenting relevant new evidence that was not available at the time of the hearing and that may have changed the decision.
• The student is able to demonstrate a substantial procedural error by the hearing body/officer that may have changed the decision.

Students are typically notified of the outcome of the appeal within 24 hours from the time of submission. During the appeal process, the findings are in effect, (i.e. a participant who is given probation is on probation or if dismissed, the student will not be allowed to attend class) The final decision of the director of children, youth and pre-collegiate programs is final and may not be appealed
 

Note: Disagreement with or dissatisfaction with the final determination will be considered insufficient grounds for an appeal.
 

RISD Admissions is notified of students who are found to have engaged in significant misconduct during Pre-College Online, or who have been dismissed or have withdrawn from Pre-College Online. Each situation is assessed individually, and such a notification does not necessarily mean a student will be precluded from future admission to RISD. However, RISD may, in its sole discretion, deny the student admission to any other program administered by RISD, including but not limited to RISD’s full-time college program.

Students who are applying to other similar educational programs or to other colleges or universities may be asked if they have ever been found to have engaged in misconduct and/or disciplined in any prior academic program, and they should disclose any such findings or discipline in the program. RISD may, in its sole discretion, disclose any such findings or discipline to other programs to which they may subsequently apply.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords you certain rights with respect to your education records.

These rights include:

1. The right to inspect and review your education records (with certain limited exceptions) within 45 days of the day RISD receives your request for access. You should submit any such request to RISD Continuing Education in writing, identifying the records you wish to inspect. RISD Continuing Education will make arrangements for access and notify you of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Records that are customarily open for student inspection will be accessible without written request.
2. The right to request the amendment of your education records if you believe them to be inaccurate. You should submit any such request to the RISD Continuing Education in writing, clearly identifying the records that you want to have amended and specifying the reasons you believe them to be inaccurate. RISD Continuing Education will notify you of its decision and, if the decision is negative, of your right to a hearing regarding your request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to you at that time.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in your education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One such exception permits disclosure to “school officials” with “legitimate educational interests.” A “school official” is any person employed by RISD in any administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support Staff position (including public safety and health services Staff); any person or company with whom RISD has contracted to provide a service to or on behalf of RISD (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); any person serving on RISD’s Board of Trustees; or any student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a “legitimate educational interest” if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill the official’s professional responsibility. Another such exception permits RISD to disclose, to anyone within the RISD community and to the general public, your “directory information” consisting of the following:
   • your name
   • local, home, and e-mail addresses
   • local and home telephone number
   • major field of study
   • enrollment status/rank (e.g., undergraduate or graduate; full time; first-year, sophomore, junior, or senior; first-year, second-year, or third-year)
   • dates of attendance
   • anticipated degree and degree date
   • degrees, honors, and awards received
   • participation in officially recognized activities
   • student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used by the student for purposes of accessing or communicating in electronic systems
   • most recent educational agency or institution attended
   • photograph

Students who wish to have their directory information withheld must notify the RISD Continuing Education in writing. (Please note that such a notification will prevent RISD Continuing Education from providing your directory information to your friends, prospective employers, arts organizations, and others with whom you may wish us to share such information, so make your decision carefully.) You may give such notification at any time, but it will be effective only prospectively.

Upon request, RISD also discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll or where the student is already enrolled so long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer. Information on other such exceptions is available through the RISD Continuing Education office.

At any point, new students as well as continuing students may access Workday to Manage their Privacy Settings (to determine whether or not they wish to be included in the public directory), as well as Assign or Remove Third Party Access (to provide parents/guardians/third-parties access to select parts of their financial and academic record). If you choose not to provide third party access, you are urged to inform your parents of your decision. Third party users will receive credentials to access the system directly.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by RISD to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Student Privacy Policy Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605.

RISD is committed to creating and providing a learning, living and working environment free from sex-based discrimination. Sex-based discrimination, including, but not limited to, sexual assault, stalking, dating and domestic violence, secual harassment, and sexual exploitation committed by members of our community, guests and/or visitors will not be tolerated. All members of our community, including guests and visitors, are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not infringe on the rights of others.

RISD complies with all applicable state and federal statutes, including Title IX of the federal Educational Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex within any education program or activity receiving federal financial aid. 

Any student, faculty or staff member who has concerns about sex-based discrimination, including any concerns pertaining to sexual misconduct, is encouraged to seek assistance from our Title IX Coordinators:

Emily Gleason
Title IX Coordinator
20 Washington Place, room 346
egleason@risd.edu

Jasmine Mahoney
Title VI, VII, and ADA/504 Coordinator
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
20 Washington Place, room 348
jmahoney@risd.edu

Coordinators can provide information about resources for assistance and options for addressing concerns. Those options may vary depending on the nature of the complaint, whether the complainant is a student, faculty or staff member, the wishes of the complainant regarding confidentiality, and whether the complainant prefers to proceed formally or informally. Together, these coordinators play an integral role in fulfilling RISD’s commitment to provide a positive learning, teaching and working environment for the entire community.

Equity & Compliance
20 Washington Place (Prov Wash)
3rd Floor, Suite 321
equitycompliance@risd.edu
Online Reporting Form

Public Safety
South Hall
30 Waterman Street
pubsafe@risd.edu

For emergencies, 24/7: 401 454-6666
For routine calls, 24/7: 401 454-6376
 

RISD is committed to creating and providing a learning, living, and working environment free of discrimination and harassment for all students, faculty, and staff. Discrimination and harassment are contrary to the standards of RISD’s community and goals towards creating an inclusive environment. Discrimination and harassment impede educational opportunities and equal employment. Discrimination and discriminatory harassment on the basis of any protected characteristic under applicable local, state, or federal law, including protections for those opposing discrimination or participating in any grievance process within the institution, with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and/or other human/civil rights agencies, will not be tolerated.

Protected characteristics include age, citizenship, color, disability, ethnicity, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, pregnancy and related conditions, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by law.

RISD does not discriminate against any employee, applicant for employment, student, or applicant for admission on the basis of actual, perceived, or association with people with protected characteristics. This policy covers nondiscrimination in both employment and access to educational opportunities. Therefore, any member of the RISD community whose acts to deny, deprive, unreasonably interfere with, or limit the education or employment, residential and/or social access, benefits, and/or opportunities of any member of the RISD community, guest, or visitor on the basis of that person’s actual or perceived protected characteristic(s), is in violation of this policy.

Inquiries about sex-based discrimination, Title IX, Title VI, Title VII, ADA/504 and all other forms of discrimination may be referred to RISD’s Equity & Compliance team,  the U.S. Department of Education, and/or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. RISD’s Equity & Compliance team can be reached via email equitycompliance@risd.edu or by submitting an online reporting form.

Equity & Compliance will promptly and effectively address any such discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or retaliation of which it has a report, using the resolution process outlined in the Nondiscrimination Policy.

All RISD employees (including student employees), other than those deemed Confidential Employees, are mandatory reporters and are required to promptly report all known details of actual or suspected discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or retaliation to Equity & Compliance.

Disclosures of actual or suspected discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or retaliation include, but are not limited to: verbal, written, and/or electronic communications, applications, class discussions, and class assignments that are discriminatory or harassing in nature.

Equity & Compliance can then review available resources, and resolution options, and implement supportive measures with all Parties involved in the reported incident(s). Mandatory reporters filing a report with Equity & Compliance help initiate the process for individuals impacted by alleged incidents of discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or retaliation to get connected to resources and seek action as needed.

To enable individuals who have allegedly experienced discrimination, discriminatory harassment, and/or retaliation to access resources and support without submitting a Report to Equity & Compliance, RISD has designated specific employees as Confidential Employees. 

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
72 Pine Street, second floor  
Providence, RI 02903 
Available 24/7: 401 454-6637

Health Services
72 Pine Street, second floor 
Providence, RI 02903 
401 454-6625