MLC Policies

Selection of Students

When applications for Midwest Line College are received, they will be reviewed for compliance with the Admission Requirements and completeness. Students who are qualified will then be placed into the session. If the number of applications exceeds the space available in the MLC session, the next 20 applicants shall be waitlisted in the sequence their qualified and complete applications were drawn from the remaining pool. Should space in a session become available due to a cancellation, withdrawal, or other reason, wait-listed applicants shall be contacted in the sequence of their completed application and invited to join the session until the session is filled. If an applicant is contacted to fill available space in a session and declines to do so, their application will be closed. Applicants who are not placed in the enrollment pool will be invited to attend the next available session. MLC/Missouri Valley JATC shall keep a log of applications received, noting the date of receipt, whether the application is qualified and complete, and the disposition of the application.

Harassment

MLC strongly disproves and will not tolerate harassment of any kind. All students must avoid offensive or inappropriate behavior in class or in related training and are responsible for assuring that the learning environment is free from harassment at all times. MLC policy prohibits unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual acts or favors, with or without accompanying promises, threats, or reciprocal favors or actions; or any other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which has the purpose or effect of adversely affecting the student’s performance or which creates a hostile or offensive learning environment. Complaints of harassment will be promptly and carefully investigated by MLC., and all students are assured that they will be free from any and all reprisal or retaliation for filing such complaints. Any Student who has a complaint of harassment in class, by anyone, should immediately bring the problem to the attention of the instructor or the Director. An investigation will include interviews with all relevant persons including the complainant, the accused, and other potential witnesses. Students are assured that the privacy of the complainant and the person accused of harassment will be kept strictly confidential. MLC will review its findings with the complainant at the conclusion of its investigation. If the investigation reveals that the complaint appears to be valid, immediate and appropriate corrective action will be taken to stop the harassment and prevent its recurrence. If the validity of the complaint cannot be determined, immediate and appropriate action will be taken to assure that all parties are reacquainted with this harassment policy and to avoid harassment in the future.

Policy Change Administration

This Policy Statement and attached Rules & Regulations may be changed at any time by the MLC Committee. The Executive Director is authorized to adopt procedures deemed necessary to effectively carry out Committee Policy and the Rules & Regulations.

Admission Requirements

MLC encourages anyone who is interested in learning a high-paying, skilled trade to apply. The program focuses on skills for the new worker and for the experienced worker who is changing occupations. To be admitted to the Midwest Line College, prospective students must:

•Be a high school graduate or have received a GED certificate

•Be 18 years of age prior to the commencement of the training

•Have an active email account

•Comply with a no-tolerance drug and alcohol policy which may include testing

•Possess a valid driver’s license issued in the United States

•Must pass a (DOT) Department of Transportation physical examination.

Acceptance Notification

All applicants will receive correspondence indicating the status of their application, regardless of the status of their enrollment. An applicant who has not met the minimum requirements will receive a notification indicating the unmet qualifications and will have the opportunity to complete the application.

Receipt of incomplete applications does not guarantee acceptance; only completed applications received within the application period will be eligible for registration in the course. Students accepted into the session will receive notification of acceptance, additional reminders regarding tools, housing, etc., as well as scheduled orientation dates. Students can log into their accounts at any time to check the status of their applications.

As MLC serves to provide qualified workers for a “traveling trade” whenever possible, correspondences will be via email. Please ensure you have a current email contact in your account file. All notifications will be made within 10 working days from the receipt of the application.

Wait List Stipulations

For applicants on the waitlist to remain eligible for the session, the following apply

•You must be able to pay the tuition in full prior to the first day

•You must have all required tools and equipment (confirmed by instructors) by the first day

MLC Tuition Refund Policy

Applicants who cancel and request a refund within seventy-two (72) hours of signing the enrollment agreement will receive a full refund of monies paid to MLC minus the nonrefundable application fee of $150. To request a refund, the applicant must submit a request in writing to the admissions department at Midwest Line College.

Cancellation and Refund

A student may cancel enrollment by giving written notice to the school at the administrative address. Enrollment is defined as the signing of the Enrollment Agreement, not as the start date of class sessions. If notice occurs:

Within 5 calendar days of the date of enrollment, all monies paid shall be refunded; all requests must be made in writing to the administrative offices. or
After 5 calendar days of the date of enrollment and prior to the commencement of classes, the school may retain only the published registration/application fee. Such fee shall not exceed 15 percent of the total tuition cost, of $150, whichever is less. Tuition payments are refundable in accordance with the schedule below.

If the student or the school terminates training after the commencement of classes, unless the school has discontinued the program of instruction, the student is financially obligated to the school according to the following formulas or maximum charges:

If a student withdraws prior to or at 50 percent completion of the contracted instructional program, the student shall be entitled to a pro-rata refund of the tuition charged and paid for such instructional program, less registration/application fees, supply fees, and any other legitimate charges owed by the student. Formal written notice of intent to withdraw must be received by instructors of administrative staff no later than 20 days after the last date of attendance. If a student withdraws upon completion of more than 50 percent of the contracted instructional program or has the enrollment agreement terminated for disciplinary action, the student shall be obligated for the remaining tuition charged for the entire instructional program and shall not be entitled to any prorated refund. Pro rata refund means a refund of tuition paid for that portion of the program not completed by the student prior to withdrawal. The date for determining that portion shall be the published course schedule and the last recorded date of attendance by the student. If an applicant is rejected, their application fee will be refunded. Applicants who have been rejected are eligible to reapply. Applications accompanied by the $50 fee that is received after the class and the waiting list is full will be returned to the applicant with a letter outlining the next application period.

Instructional Language

Midwest Line College is an English-speaking facility and all instruction is conducted in the English language. MLC does not offer English as a second language (ESL) instruction.

Previous Credits

Because of the sequential instruction of the program and the uniqueness of the program, we do not allow previous credit. Additionally, due to the unique curriculum, the program does not allow “transfers in" from other-like programs.

Attendance

Attending MLC is the equivalent of going to a full-time job. Students are expected to be on time, prepared and ready to learn when the class commences. To maintain satisfactory attendance, students must not have more than five absences. Students who have more than five absences will not receive a certification of completion in this program and will be terminated.

Tardy

Students 1 to 14 minutes late for class are recorded as tardy. Students 15 or more minutes late (or leaving 15 or more minutes before class ends) are recorded as absent. Two tardies are recorded as one absence, subject to the Attendance policy

Make-up Work

If a student needs to make-up work as a result of some circumstance, such as illness that is outside the student’s control, the instructors will accept late homework and will administer missed tests. The administration of make-up tests will be at the convenience of the instructor. Additionally, any make-up work needed must be completed and evaluated prior to the end of the school session, as there is no carry-over into a subsequent session.

Leave of Absence

Due to the unique, fast-paced environment of the program, any time away from instruction jeopardizes the students’ ability to successfully complete the program. The staff of MLC recognized extenuating circumstances may arise and will evaluate such a situation on an individual basis to ensure ample opportunity to complete the course, without compromising the student’s education. Should such an event occur, the student must submit a request in writing which includes the reason for leave and the length of time requested. In the event of a disabling illness or accident, death in the immediate family or other circumstances beyond the control of the student that causes the student to leave school, the school shall arrange a prorated tuition settlement that is reasonable and fair to both parties.

Student Conduct

To maintain the safety of MLC students, staff and the quality of the MLC student experience as a whole, individual students who do not conduct themselves appropriately may be sent home for the day, placed on probation, or terminated from the program depending on the nature and severity of the offense.

Examples of conduct that will result in one of the three listed consequences include but are not limited to:

•Violation of rules or policies listed in the program catalog, curriculum, or program documents. •Violation of the Academic Honesty policy

•Stealing or vandalizing property of MLC, Missouri Valley JATC Facility, and personal property of staff, students, or any other individuals.

•Any behavior on or off campus that brings discredit to MLC, negatively affects student or staff morale or negatively impacts the quality of training or training environment.

•Use or possession of illegal substances, on or off campus.

•Use or possession of alcoholic beverages on campus.

•Use of tobacco products, including smoking, vaping, and chewing/spitting while in academic classes.

•Being under the influence of any intoxicating substance while on MLC property.

•Posting or stating inappropriate, hostile, or harassing language, photographs, videos, or documents (whether directed at self, peers, instructors, or MLC)

•Blatant disrespect of fellow students, faculty, staff, or others.

When a student is sent home for a violation of the Student Conduct policy that absence will count towards the student’s total absences and calculated as defined in the Attendance policy.

Fit for Duty Determination

MLC defines being “fit for duty” as an individual who is in a physical, mental, and emotional state that enables the student to perform the essential tasks of his or her field and classroom assignments in a manner that does NOT threaten the safety or health of oneself, fellow students, property, MLC staff and/or the public at large.

In order to ensure the safety and health of all individuals on MLC/Missouri Valley JATC property, MLC reserves the right to evaluate students on a case-by-case basis to determine if they are fit for duty. This evaluation will be conducted by an instructor and director. The director will make the final determination of fit for duty and recommend a course of action.

If the student is determined not fit for duty, that student will be dismissed for the day after arranging transportation, if applicable. When a student is dismissed because it was determined they were not fit for duty, they will be counted absent for that day. The absence will count toward the student’s total absences and calculated as defined in the

Academic Honesty

MLC students will take responsibility for their own work, learning, and performance. Any academic dishonesty (such as cheating, plagiarism, or collusion in connection with examinations) will result in automatic termination.

Job Placement Information

The program includes industry orientation, covering such topics as related trades, apprenticeship, application processes, and interviewing. As a partner of the industry that it serves, MLC and its parent organization, Missouri Valley JATC, are unique resources for students as they seek and evaluate job opportunities. Through guest lectures and participation, students will have access to IBEW/NECA contractors, utility companies and/or other program representatives. MLC does not and cannot guarantee employment.

Dress Code

In the field and in the classroom: MLC gray long-sleeve shirts are required. Pants should be of durable fabric (denim, wool, etc.). Boots must be leather and cover at least two inches of the ankle. Safety glasses (ANSI Z87) are to be worn in the pole yard. Any attire that is considered offensive by faculty or other students will be restricted. Any clothing (or behavior) that inhibits this environment will not be acceptable.

Student Orientation

The first day of attendance for each starting class is dedicated to new student orientation. This will include introductions to faculty, policies, facility tour, and an overview of the expectation of the students during their time at MLC.

Electronic Devicies

Electronic devices may be used during normal classroom hours only if the use is directly related to the lecture/lesson such as taking notes. Devices may not be distracting or interrupting in any way. Students are responsible for the security of their own electronic devices. At the instructor’s discretion, a student may be asked to surrender any electronic device found disrupting the learning environment, being a distraction to the instructor or fellow students, or for usage violation. The device will be returned at the end of the day. Violating this policy will result in a reprimand, if the student has repeated violations, they risk being terminated from the program.

Tabacco Free Institution

Tobacco products and spit cups are not permitted in any building. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas. If you chew, do not spit chew on the ground.

Drug/ Alchol Policy

MLC is a drug/alcohol free educational institution. All marijuana use is prohibited. MLC conducts training and prepares its students for careers in the industry where drugs and alcohol create unsafe conditions.

Prescription Drug Notification

Each student must notify MLC of any prescription drugs they are taking while enrolled at MLC. If any of the prescriptions would possibly impair the student’s behavior, physically or mentally, then MLC reserves the right to terminate enrollment.

Drug/ Alchol Testing

Students are subjected to random testing for drugs or alcohol. Students may be drug/alcohol tested for reasonable cause or suspicion, such as sleeping in class, poor test grades, accidents, odd behavior, and credible reports. Students who refuse to take a drug/alcohol test will be terminated from the program. Students who alter, dilute, tamper with, provide a false sample, deliberately delay, or in any way compromise the drug/alcohol testing procedure will be terminated from the program. Students who possess, use, or sell any drugs or alcohol on campus will be terminated from the program. In testing for alcohol, any student tested will be given an initial test, and if they test above .02 BAC, a confirmation test will be performed no sooner than 15 minutes after the first test. Any alcohol confirmation test must be done by means of a breath testing device.

Results of a Drug/Alcohol Test

If drug/alcohol testing occurs on campus and initial test results are available, they are classified as either conclusively negative or non-conclusively positive. Nonconclusive tests are sent to a laboratory for conclusive analysis. Results may take up to 72 hours. In the event of a non-conclusive positive test result, the student is permitted to attend classes during a lab analysis, so long as that student is found to be in compliance with MidWest Line College’s Drug/Alcohol policy and all prescribed medications have been previously disclosed. In such cases, the student will be limited to activities that do not endanger self or others until lab results are obtained. In the event of a non-conclusive test result where a student is found to be out of compliance by having failed to disclose prescribed medication, they will be required to leave campus for the duration of the lab analysis and marked absent for days missed. Upon confirmation of a conclusively negative test result from the lab, immediate reinstatement to full participation occurs. The student will be counted as present for all days attended, including days where they were limited to activities that did not endanger themselves or others. Upon confirmation of a conclusively positive test result from the lab, immediate termination will occur; the student’s last day of attendance will be reported as the date the drug/alcohol test was administered. If drug/alcohol testing occurs off campus and/or initial test results are not available, all students subjected to random testing are assumed to be negative (drug/alcohol-free) and may fully participate in training until conclusive test results are received.

Knowledge probation

Students are placed on knowledge probation in a course when their cumulative score in that course falls below 80% or if an individual test grade falls below 70%. The student will be counseled verbally with a written follow-up identifying specific area(s) of deficiency and the requirements to end probation. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate corrective actions which may include meeting with the school official to discuss the reasons for and solutions to the terms of probation. Students who fail to raise their average above 80% may choose to complete the remainder of the program however, they will be academically dismissed at the end of the term due to unsatisfactory academic progress and will not receive a Certificate of Completion.

Skills Probation

Students are placed on skills probation when they fail to complete a skill to standards within the time allotted. Students who are unable to physically demonstrate proficiency throughout the skill activities and are subsequently creating unsafe environments for themselves or others are at risk of being dismissed from the program. The student will be counseled verbally with a written follow-up identifying the specific area(s) of deficiency and the requirements to end probation. Students who fail to correct their deficiency where it has been determined an unsafe environment is being created will be considered for skills dismissal. If it is determined there is a safety risk posed that cannot be remedied, the student will be dismissed from the program. Students who remain in the program will stay on probation until the skill issue is resolved. Students who fail to complete all skills within the allotted time and still choose to complete the remainder of the program will be academically dismissed at the end of the term due to unsatisfactory academic progress and will not receive a Certificate of Completion.

Attitude Probation

Students who fail to meet attitude standards may be terminated from the program or assigned attitude probation. If the student is assigned probation, the student is consulted to review deficient behavior, identify possible causes, and list recommended or mandatory steps for improvement. The student remains on probation until the deficient attitude has been corrected. Students who fail to correct their attitude are terminated from the program.

Withdrawl

If a student voluntarily withdraws from the program (form required), the student is subject to the tuition refund policy. If the student withdraws after completing 50% of the program, they will receive no refund. If they withdraw before 50% completion of the program, they are subject to the pro-rated tuition schedule.

Student Appeal Process

A student has the right to lodge a grievance with or appeal a ruling by the school. If a student has a grievance against the school, they should first attempt to resolve any concerns with the appropriate instructor. If the instructor cannot handle the complaint or concern, the student should file complaints or appeals in writing and postmarked within 30 days of the student’s last day of attendance. These will be reviewed by the Director and/or Missouri Valley JATC Committee. Unless specifically provided by state or federal law or administrative rule, the decision of the Missouri Valley JATC shall be final in the reconciliation of the grievance or appeal. Students aggrieved by action of the school should attempt to resolve these problems with appropriate school officials. Should this procedure fail, students may contact the Iowa department of education. https://educateiowa.gov/resources/legalresources/administrative-appeal-procedures

Direct Entry

After a student has successfully graduated MLC and meets all Missouri Valley JATC minimum requirements, that student will then be qualified for direct entry into the Missouri Valley JATC Apprenticeship.

Missouri Valley JATC Requirements:

• Highschool diploma/GED

• DOT medical card

• CDL Class A w/ air brakes and manual transmission

Re-Admission

Re-admission is at the sole discretion of the school. Those students who desire to be reinstated must submit a written request to MLC, clearly identifying the request for reinstatement. All requests will be reviewed by the Director and Instructor within five days of receipt. Notifications of results will be in writing.

MLC will maintain student transcript permanently
All required student records are retained for five years from the student's graduation, withdrawal, or termination date.
Supporting documentation is retained for one year from the conclusion of the term.

Transcripts

Graduates will receive an official transcript up graduation at no cost. Official transcripts thereafter may be obtained by submitting a written, signed request and fee of $5 for one official transcript. The request will be mailed to MLC.

Section 504/ADA

MLC does not discriminate in admission or access to programs on the basis of race, color, sex, age, disability, or national origin to the extent of the law. If you would like to request reasonable accommodations, please use the process outlined below to contact the respective individual responsible for coordinating compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Applicants with disabilities, as defined in paragraph 104.3(j) of the regulation under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, may apply for admittance into the program. MLC will work with the applicant or student to determine whether reasonable accommodations can be effective and/or are available. Any qualified individual with a disability requesting an accommodation or auxiliary aid or service should follow this procedure: Notify admissions, in writing, of the accommodation needed, the date needed, and documentation of the nature and extent of the disability including any individualized education plan (IEP), and any need for an auxiliary aid. The request should be made at least four weeks in advance of the term start date. MLC will respond within two weeks of receiving a request. To make a request after the start of a respective term, an enrolled student must make an appointment with the Director to start the formal Request for Reasonable Accommodation process. Accommodations are not retroactive.