Student Conduct Appeals process

Overview of Process

View related PJC Policy FLB (Local) and FMA (Local) for more information. 

Right to Appeal a Student Conduct Decision

A student has the right to appeal a decision resulting from the student conduct process if the student believes the outcome was reached in error or that due process was not followed. An appeal is not a rehearing of the case, but a review of the original decision based on specific, limited grounds.

Grounds for Appeal

An appeal may be submitted only for one or more of the following reasons:

  1. Procedural Error
    A material deviation from established procedures that substantially affected the outcome of the case.
  2. New Information
    New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of the original hearing and that could have affected the decision.
  3. Disproportionate Sanction
    The sanction imposed is clearly excessive or insufficient in relation to the violation.
  4. Bias or Conflict of Interest
    Evidence that the decision-maker(s) had a conflict of interest or demonstrated bias that impacted the outcome.

Appeal Process

Step 1: Submit Written Appeal

  • The student must submit a written appeal within 10 business days of receiving the decision.
  • Appeals must be submitted to the Director of Student Life or the Vice President of Student Services or designee.
  • Email: ss@parisjc.edu or studentlife@parisjc.edu 
  • The appeal must clearly:
  • State the specific ground(s) for appeal
  • Provide supporting facts or documentation
  • Include the requested outcome

Failure to submit a timely or complete appeal may result in the denial of the appeal.

Step 2: Initial Review

  • The Director of Student Life, Vice President of Student Services or designee will review the appeal to determine if it meets the stated grounds.
  • If the appeal does not meet the criteria, it may be denied without further review.
  • If accepted, the appeal will proceed to the appropriate appellate body.

Step 3: Appeal Review

Depending on the nature and severity of the case, the appeal may be reviewed by:

  • A Disciplinary Committee, or
  • The College President or designee

The review will be limited to:

  • The written appeal
  • The original case record
  • Any new information submitted

The appellate body may:

  • Affirm the original decision
  • Modify the sanction
  • Remand the case for further review
  • Reverse the decision (in rare cases where warranted)

Step 4: Final Decision

  • The student will receive written notification of the appeal outcome.

Important Notes

  • Sanctions may remain in effect during the appeal unless otherwise determined by the College.
  • Students are expected to comply with all sanctions unless and until a decision is modified on appeal.

Administrative Authority

The College reserves the right to:

  • Correct clerical or administrative errors at any time
  • Take immediate action when necessary to protect the safety and well-being of the campus community

Questions? 
Contact the Vice President of Student Services
Administration Building (Paris Campus), Ste. 152
903-782-0211
ss@parisjc.edu