Drug & Alcohol Use Policy

The College is committed to helping its students and its employees achieve their personal and educational goals.  Having determined that illicit drugs and alcohol are not compatible with the College's commitment and not necessary for the achievement of these goals, the College requires students, employees, and visitors to refrain from unlawful drug activity and the use of alcohol on our campuses and at College-sponsored events.

Violators of this policy will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency and may also be disciplined by the College.  Disciplinary sanctions imposed by the College may include expulsion or termination of employment.

• Alcohol:
  • Alcoholic beverages will be permitted on campus only with written approval of the President or his/her designee.
  • Students and employees found in violation of the state or local laws regarding alcohol use will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency.  Note: the age limit in New York State for purchase, possession, or consumption of alcohol is 21.  Local laws include Open Container Laws that make possession of any open container of alcoholic beverages unlawful.
  • Students violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.  Sanctions can include suspension or dismissal from the College.
  • Disciplinary action for employees violating this policy can include suspension without pay or termination.
• Drug Possession:
  • Students possessing, using, manufacturing, or distributing illicit drugs on campus or at college-sponsored events will be subject to disciplinary action.  Sanctions can include suspension or dismissal from the College.  These internal review procedures are not intended to replace those of the local law-enforcement agencies.  Unlawful behavior will be reported to the appropriate agency for its action.
  • Employees possessing, using, manufacturing or distributing drugs on campus or at a College-sponsored event will be reported to the appropriate area Vice President or the President.  Violation of the policy can result in disciplinary action that may include suspension without pay and dismissal.  These internal disciplinary procedures are not intended to replace those of the local law enforcement agencies.  Employees convicted of a drug offense that occurred on campus or at a College-sponsored event are required by law to so notify the College.
• Prevention:
  • A written statement will be distributed at least annually to all students attending at least one credit course and all employees.  That statement will include:
    • The College's Policy on Drugs and Alcohol.
    • The sanctions that can be levied against violators under existing state or federal law.
    • A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol.
    • A listing of resources available at the College or in the community to assist students and employees seeking treatment and rehabilitation.
  • The College will communicate its policy on drugs and alcohol to those seeking to use or visit College facilities.  Signs, where appropriate, will inform even the casual visitor that North Country Community College is a drug and alcohol free college.

Drug-Free School and Communities Drug-Free Workplace Act:

In compliance with the above acts, North Country Community College publishes a booklet that informs all students and employees of NCCC's substance abuse policy, sanctions for violation of the policy, State and Federal alcohol and drug laws, offenses connected with alcohol and drug use and provides a referral list of the College and community assistance available.  Students with questions or problems about substance abuse may contact a College counselor.