As members of the academic community, students are encouraged to develop the capacity for critical judgment and to engage in an independent search for truth. Freedom to teach and freedom to learn are inseparable facets of academic freedom. The freedom to learn depends upon appropriate opportunities and conditions in the classroom, on the campus, and in the larger community. Students should exercise their freedom with responsibility. The responsibility to secure and to respect general conditions conducive to the freedom to learn is shared by all members of the college community.

The following enumerated rights are guaranteed to each student within the limitations of federal and state law and college rules, policies, and procedures:

(1) Academic freedom.

(a) Students are guaranteed rights of free inquiry, expression and peaceful assembly upon and within college facilities that are generally open and available to the public.

(b) Students are free to pursue appropriate educational objectives from among the college's curricula, programs and services, subject to the limitations of RCW 28B.50.090 (3)(b) (College board—Powers and duties), available space in the class, and meeting any required prerequisites.

(c) Students have the right to a learning environment, which is free from unlawful discrimination, inappropriate or disrespectful conduct, and any and all harassment, including sexual harassment.

(d) Students are protected from academic evaluation, which is arbitrary, prejudiced or capricious, but are responsible for meeting the standards of academic performance established by each of their instructors.

(2) Nondiscrimination. Students have the right not to be discriminated against on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin or ancestry, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

(3) Due process.

(a) No disciplinary sanction may be imposed on any student without notice to the accused of the nature of the charges.

(b) A student accused of violating this code of student conduct is entitled to procedural due process as set forth in this chapter.

(4) Right to assembly. Students shall have the right of assembly upon college facilities that are generally available to the public provided such assemblies are in compliance with procedures established in Administrative Procedure 516.03, Rules for Use of Campus as Public Forums, and other behavioral expectations outlined in the code of conduct.

(5) Grievances. Students have the right to express and resolve misunderstandings, complaints and grievances according to the stated process in WAC 132B-125-500 Student complaint, grievance, and grade appeal policy and procedures.

(6) Conduct code revision. The associated students of Grays Harbor College has the right to participate in the formulation and review of all policies and rules pertaining to student conduct.