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For Parents & Families

All University of Minnesota Duluth students are held to the Board of Regents Student Conduct Code.

Notification Policy

UMD is able to notify parents when:

  • the health or safety of a student or other individual is threatened,
  • the student signs a waiver permitting the release, or;
  • the University is able to determine the student is financially dependent for tax purposes.

In order to discuss a case with parents, the student must sign a FERPA Information Release waiver naming the particular individuals with whom details may be shared.

Process

Tips for Families

  • Discuss the incident with your student. Be sure to listen carefully and critically.
  • Clarify your expectations and values to your student.
  • Take this opportunity to have an open discussion with your student about the process of making decisions consistent with their own values, ethics, and future goals.
  • Encourage your student to understand the conduct process.
  • Brainstorm with your student ways to overcome past mistakes.
  • Focus on the behavior that resulted in the incident rather than the student's character.

Frequently Asked Question

I received a letter about my student's violation. What's next?
The office informs parents of students' violations, especially when the incident represents a health or safety concern. No action is required on the part of the family, but this may be the time to initiate a dialogue with your student about the incident.
Can the Office of Student Conduct discuss my student's case with me?
Yes. In most cases, a FERPA Information Release waiver on file that specifically names the individuals with whom details may be discussed.
The court system has altered/dropped my student's case. Does that change her/his standing with the University?
No. The office operates a system apart from civil or criminal court. The court system enforces the criminal code. The Office of Student Conduct enforces the Student Conduct Code. Dismissal from one system does not necessitate dismissal from the other. In other words, UMD may hold students accountable for conduct inconsistent with our standards regardless of an outcome in the court system.
This incident occured off-campus. Why is the University involved?
The Board of Regents Student Conduct Code gives the University authority to hold students accountable for their conduct both on and off-campus. This reflects the University's belief that students represent UMD on campus as well as in the larger Duluth community.
What kind of action may be taken if my student is found responsible?
Sanctions (the outcome of a finding of responsible) are decided on a case-by-case basis. The hearing officer has discretion in assigning sanctions. This enables the hearing officer to best address the needs of the student.
Will my student have a conduct record? Who can access a conduct record?
The office generally maintains records of conduct violations for seven years. Conduct records are highly confidential and legally guarded. Release of conduct records may or may not require the student's authorization. For example, graudate schools or other institutions may request a student's conduct record prior to an admissions decision. In this case, the student's signature is required.
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Last modified on 06/13/13 01:32 PM
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