Academic Catalog - General Information

History & Accreditation

History

In 1939, the residents of the La Junta School District Number 11 voted that bonds would be used to finance a junior college building to be administered by the Board of Education. On September 15, 1941, “La Junta Junior College” opened its doors. The college was operated by the school district. By state statute, the college was classified as a continuation school. 

In 1949, an election was held county-wide to consider the proposal that the college become an independent unit supported by the county rather than by the local school district. This proposal was approved by the voters and the college was renamed, “Otero County Junior College.” The elected board, the Junior College Committee, did not desire to assume control of the college then, and it continued to operate as a continuation school. On January 1, 1956, the college governing board voted to take over the existing facilities from the La Junta School District, and the college changed its name to “Otero College.” The college became primarily a transfer institution emphasizing the first two years of a four-year degree program. 

In 1967, the 46th General Assembly of the State of Colorado passed the Community College Act, a law creating a state system of junior colleges to be governed by the State Board for Community Colleges and Occupational Education (SBCCOE). Existing junior colleges were given the option of joining the system with the approval of qualified voters in their respective junior college district. That same year, the college received accreditation by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. 

On February 20, 1968, Otero County voters unanimously favored joining the state system. The college officially became a state two-year college on July 1, 1968. With the creation of the state system of community colleges, funds for establishing and expanding occupational programs were increased, and Otero College became a more comprehensive junior college. 

In the Fall of 1969, Otero College was designated as an area vocational-technical school, expanding its offerings in vocational education to public schools in the college’s tri-county service area as the Central Arkansas Valley Occupational Center. In the Spring of 1993 this partnership was discontinued. 

Accreditation – Certification – Affiliation

Otero College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The HLC can be reached at: 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, Illinois 60602-1411. Telephone: 312-263-0456 | 800-621-7440 | Fax: 312-263-7462 

The Nursing Assistant and Practical Nursing programs are approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing. The ADN Registered Nursing Program is approved by the Colorado State Board of Nursing and accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Rd. NE, Ste 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326.  Phone:  404-975-5000. 

The Medical Laboratory Technician program is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) Board of Directors. 

The Otero Law Enforcement Training Academy follows the Peace Officers Standards and Training guidelines. POST certification testing is scheduled at the end of each law enforcement academy. During each academy, Otero instructors administer various levels of certification and testing based on current POST guidelines. 

Location

La Junta is in the Central Arkansas River Valley on U.S. Highway 50 in southeastern Colorado. It is the county seat of Otero County and has a population of about 7,000. Located in a rich, irrigated farming community, it also has several manufacturing industries. Major employers in the area include Oliver Manufacturing, DeBourgh Manufacturing Company, Southeast Colorado Power, Falcon Industries, Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center, and Lewis Bolt and Nut. La Junta is also a hub for livestock and produce markets. 

The people of La Junta support many churches, fraternal organizations, and service clubs. The public library, financed by the city and by endowment, is one of the outstanding institutions of its kind in southeastern Colorado. 

The cultural interests of the city are reflected in the programs of the Community Concert series, numerous art exhibits, the Koshare Indian Museum, The Picketwire Players theatre group, various creative writing and art groups, and community club programs. 

City parks, located near the college, provide varied recreational facilities. Basketball, tennis courts, and a skateboard facility are open at any time. Numerous picnic and outdoor recreation facilities are available at the historic City Park, located just four blocks north of the college. 

Common Student Code of Conduct

General Regulations of the College

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner both on and off campus and to maintain a high standard of moral conduct. 

Students are expected to manifest attributes required of good citizens, both within and outside the boundaries of the college: respect for order, morality, personal honor, and the rights of others. 

It is understood that students who enroll at Otero College will assume the responsibilities involved by adhering to the regulations of the college.

Otero College and the Colorado Community College System Student Behavior Expectations & Responsibilities

The College considers the behavior described in the following subsections as inappropriate and in opposition to the values of the College community. These responsibilities apply to all students including continuing education. The College encourages and expects students, faculty, and staff to engage as active bystanders and report to College officials incidents that involve the following behaviors. Any student found to have violated or to have attempted to violate the following responsibilities may be subject to the conditions, restrictions, and outcomes outlined in SP 4-30a, Student Behavior Expectations and Responsibilities Resolution Procedure. 

The following section is organized alphabetically by violation followed by an explanation: 

Abuse of Conduct Process: Abuse or interference with College processes, including conduct and academic integrity meetings: 

• Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information. 

• Failure to provide, destroying, or concealing information during an investigation of an alleged Code violation. 

• Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the campus conduct system. 

• Inappropriately influencing any member of the campus community with conduct authority prior to, during, and/or following a campus conduct proceeding. 

• Influencing or attempting to influence another individual to commit an abuse of the campus conduct process. 

Academic Integrity: Plagiarizing, cheating, or committing any other form of academic misconduct including, but not limited to, unauthorized collaboration, falsification of information, and/or helping someone else violate reasonable standards for academic behavior. Students who engage in any type of academic dishonesty are subject to both academic consequences as determined by the instructor and to outcomes as set forth in the Student Behavioral Expectations and Responsibilities Resolution Procedure. 

• Cheating: The act of using or attempting to use an examination or other academic work, material, information, or study aids which are not permitted by the instructor. Cheating includes, but is not limited to: 

• Using books, notes, or calculators or copying from or conversing with others during examinations (unless such external aids are permitted by the instructor). 

• Having someone else do research, write papers, or take examinations for someone else.  

• Submitting work completed in one class to fulfill an assignment in another class without prior approval from the instructor(s). 

• Stealing, distributing, selling, and buying tests or having someone take an exam on someone else’s behalf. 

• Fabrication: The invention of material or its source and its use as an authority in academic work. Fabrication includes, but is not limited to: 

• Inventing the data for a scientific experiment. 

• Inventing the title and author of a publication in order to use the invented publication as a source. 

• Knowingly attributing material to an incorrect source. 

• Plagiarism: The act of using someone else’s work without giving proper credit to the original source. The work can be written, artistic, musical, language, symbols, or media. Reusing one’s own work without proper citation (or approval of instructor) is also plagiarism.  

Aiding and Abetting: It is a violation of this Code to actively assist another in violating the Code or covering up the violation after the fact. 

Alcohol/Drugs: Use, being under the influence, manufacturing, possession, cultivating, distribution, purchase, or sale of alcohol and/or drugs (illegal and/or dangerous or controlled substance) and/or alcohol/drug paraphernalia while on College-owned or College-controlled property, and/or at any function authorized or supervised by the College, and/or in state owned or leased vehicles. 

Animals/Pets: Animals are not permitted on campus except as permitted by law or as specifically approved by the College. 

• Please see SP 4-120b, regarding Student Disability Services for information related to service animals and emotional support animals. 

• Please see the appropriate handbook for regulations and processes for animals and pets in student housing, where applicable.  

Bullying/Non-physical abuse: Bullying includes repeated and/or severe aggressive or negative actions or behaviors intentionally or reasonably likely to intimidate, hurt, control, or diminish another person, physically, mentally, or emotionally. Bullying may include direct or indirect communications in verbal or nonverbal form and specifically includes bullying by electronic means (e.g., cyberbullying). 

• For more information and compliance, see SP19-10, Bullying/Violence/Firearms on Campus. 

Damage and Destruction: Reckless and/or unauthorized damage to, or destruction of, College property or the individual property of another, regardless of intention. Damage or destruction of community, public, or private property. 

Deceitful Acts: Engaging in deceitful acts, including, but not limited to: collusion, forgery, falsification, alteration, misrepresentation, non-disclosure, or misuse of documents, records, identification and/or educational materials. 

• Collusion: Action with another or others to violate the Code. 

• Falsification: Knowingly furnishing or possessing false, falsified, or forged materials, documents, accounts, records, identification, or financial instruments, including electronic forgery and/or manipulation.  

Discrimination and Harassment: Discrimination is any distinction, preference, advantage, or detriment given to a person based on one or more actual or perceived protected classes. Harassment is a form of discrimination that includes Quid Pro Quo and Hostile Environment. 

• Hostile Environment occurs when a person is subjected to verbal or physical conduct based on a protected class that is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive, and objectively offensive to alter the conditions of a person’s employment or unreasonably interfere with a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from CCCS educational programs or activities, from both a subjective and objective viewpoint. 

• Quid Pro Quo is a type of sexual harassment that exists when an employee conditions the provision of an aid, benefit, or service on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct, such as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. 

• Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual assault.  

• For more information and how to file a complaint regarding discrimination or harassment, including sexual misconduct, see SP 19-60, Civil Rights and Sexual Misconduct Resolution Process. 

Disruptive Behavior: Engaging in any behavior that negatively affects or impedes teaching or learning (regardless of mode of delivery or class setting) or disrupts the general operation of the College. 

Endangerment or Defacement: Conduct that is detrimental to the College, and/or to community safety. Examples include, but are not limited to, slamming doors, throwing chairs, and/or defacing of College property or property of others. 

Failure to Comply: 

• Failure to comply with or follow the lawful directives of College employees acting within the scope of their duties, including those directives issued by a College administrator to ensure the safety and well-being of others.  

• Failure to comply with or follow the directives and/or sanctions imposed under CCCS policies and procedures.  

• Failure to identify oneself to College officials, acting in their official capacity, when requested to do so. 

Fire Safety: Violation of federal, state, local, or campus fire policies including, but not limited to: 

• Intentionally, recklessly, or negligently causing a fire that damages the College, individual property, or causes injury. 

• Failure to evacuate a College owned, operated, or controlled facility during a fire alarm. 

• Improper use of College fire safety equipment. 

• Tampering with or improperly engaging a fire alarm or fire detection/control equipment while on College property. Such action may result in a criminal action. 

Gambling: Gambling as prohibited by the laws of the State of Colorado. Gambling may include, but is not limited to, raffles, lotteries, sports pools, and online betting activities. Participation in illegal gambling activities on College-owned or College-controlled property, and/or any function authorized or supervised by the College, and/or in state owned or leased vehicles. 

Harm to individuals: Intentionally or unintentionally causing physical harm, threatening to cause harm, endangering the health and/or safety of any individual, or demonstrating violent behavior. 

• Violent Behavior includes any act or threat of physical, verbal or psychological aggression, or the destruction or abuse of property by any individual. 

• A threat is defined as direct or indirect, verbal or non-verbal conduct (including those made in person, by mail, over the telephone, by email, or by other means) intended to result or reasonably resulting in intimidation, harassment, harm, fear or endangerment of the safety of another person or property. 

• For more information and compliance, see SP 19-10, Bullying/Violence/Firearms on Campus. https://cccs.edu/about/governance/policies-procedures/sp-19-10-bullying-violence-firearms-on-campus/  

Hazing: Defined as an act that endangers the psychological, emotional, intellectual, and/or physical health and/or safety of a student, or that destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a group, team, or organization. Additionally, any act that places a student in a subservient role within an organization is considered hazing. Participation or consensual cooperation by the individual(s) being hazed does not excuse the violation. Failing to intervene to prevent, failing to discourage, and failing to report those acts may also violate this code. 

Indecent Exposure: Deliberately and publicly exposing one’s intimate body parts, public urination, defecation, and public sex acts. 

Retaliation: Retaliatory acts include, but are not limited to intimidation, verbal or physical threats, harassment, coercion, or other adverse action(s) against a person who reports an incident of misconduct. 

Rioting: Causing, inciting, or participating in any disturbance that presents a clear and present danger to self or others, causes physical harm to others, or results in damage and/or destruction of property. 

Theft: Obtaining, retaining or exercising control over property of another without authorization, or by threat or deception, with the purpose and/or effect of depriving the person(s) to whom the property belongs of its use or benefit. 

Tobacco Violation: Smoking and the use of tobacco and related products, including electronic smoking, where contrary to applicable laws or policies established by the College. This includes smoking inside buildings or in areas where smoking is posted as prohibited. 

Trademark Violation: Unauthorized use, including misuse, of the College or organizational names and images without the express written consent of the institution or organization. 

Unacceptable Use of College Equipment, Network or System: Unacceptable uses of any College-owned or operated equipment, network or system including, but not limited to: knowingly spreading computer viruses; reposting personal communications without the author’s consent; copying protected materials; using the network for financial or personal gain, commercial activity, or illegal activity; accessing the network using another individual’s account; unauthorized downloading/uploading software and/or digital video or music; downloading/uploading, viewing or displaying pornographic content, or any other attempt to compromise network integrity. For more information, see SP 4-32, Student Email Acceptable Use. 

Unauthorized Access and Entry: Unauthorized access to any College facility, including misuse of  keys, cards, restricted access areas, or unauthorized possession, duplication or use of other individual’s means of access to any College facility; failing to provide a timely report of a lost College identification card or key; misuse of access privileges to College premises or unauthorized entry to or use of facilities, including trespassing, propping, or unauthorized use of alarmed doors for entry into or exit from a College facility. 

Violation of Laws, Directives and Signage: Violating any municipal, county, state or federal laws, or executive orders, or violating any public health orders in a manner that adversely impacts the health and well-being of the campus environment and those on campus. 

Weapons Violation: Possession, use, or distribution of explosives (including fireworks and ammunition), guns (including air, BB, paintball, facsimile weapons, and pellet guns), or other weapons or dangerous objects, such as arrows, axes, machetes, nunchaku, throwing stars, or knives with a blade of longer than three (3) inches. This includes the unauthorized storage of any item that falls within the category of a weapon, including storage in a vehicle parked on College property, other than what is expressly permitted by law. 

• Possession of an instrument designed to look like a firearm, explosive, or dangerous weapon is also prohibited by this policy. 

• Intentionally or recklessly using and/or possessing a weapon or any other item in such a way that would intimidate, harass, injure, or otherwise interfere with the learning and working environment of the College shall face increased consequences. 

• Students, faculty, and staff possessing valid Colorado Concealed Handgun Licenses are not permitted to carry concealed on campus.  Please refer to state law for more details.  

• For more information and compliance, see SP 19-10, Bullying/Violence/Firearms on Campus.  https://cccs.edu/about/governance/policies-procedures/sp-19-10-bullying-violence-firearms-on-campus/  

Violation of course, program, or activity rules: Violation of established rules as contained in courses, programs activities, regulations, or guidelines and established by departments, regulatory boards, or licensing bodies, including all Housing and Residential Education policies, as applicable. 

Group Violations: A student group or organization and its officers and membership may be held collectively and individually responsible when violations of this Code occur by the organization or its member(s), including the following conditions: 

• Violation(s) take place at organization-sponsored or co-sponsored events, whether sponsorship is formal or implied. 

• Violation(s) have received the consent or encouragement of the organization or of the organization’s leaders or officers. 

• Violation(s) were known or should have been known to the membership or its officers. 

Conduct meetings for student groups or organizations shall also follow the Student Behavioral Expectations and Responsibilities Resolution Procedure. In any such action, individual determinations as to responsibility will be made and restrictions, conditions, and outcomes may be assigned collectively and individually, and will be proportionate to the involvement of each individual and the organization. Procedures will begin with communication to the President or leadership of said organization. 

Amnesty 

Assisting an individual by calling for help in an alcohol or drug-related emergency means neither the person who calls for help, nor the person who needs help will be subject to formal investigation nor receive a formal conduct record for their behavior. Students seeking assistance under these provisions may be required to meet with the SSAO and to complete educational, counseling, or other requirements aimed at addressing health and safety concerns. The requirements will be informal or on a deferred basis. 

 The student must fully comply with reporting to appropriate College officials for amnesty to be considered. 

Class Attendance

Student Right to Know & Campus Security

The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act of 1990, (Title I of Public law 101-542) is a federal law that requires institutions of higher education receiving federal assistance to make available several key points of information. For additional data and information please visit https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?q=Otero+College&s=all&id=127778#netprc. 

1. Overall graduation and transfer-out rates for students who began their studies in Fall 2020.  The percentage of Full-time, First-time, degree-seeking students who enrolled at Otero College in the Fall of 2020 and who graduated or transferred out within 150% of “Normal Time” to completion is 37% overall and 37% that transferred to a Colorado 2-year or 4-year institution.  This does not include students who continue to be enrolled at Otero College.
   
2. Otero College Retention Rate: The retention rate for the 2021 cohorts are as follows: Full-time 56%, Part-time 50%. 

3. Otero College Financial Aid Rates for First-time, beginning Undergraduates:

• $5,919 is the average federal grant received by Otero College students. 

• $1,959 is the average state and local grants received by Otero College students. 

• $6,079 is the average institutional grant received by Otero College students. 

• $4,742 is the average loan amount taken out by Otero College students. 

Otero College Crime Awareness and Campus Security Policies and Information:

Otero College Campus Security is responsible for monitoring and recording criminal activities occurring on campus and/or to college property. In addition to traditional law enforcement responsibilities, Campus Security enforces parking regulations, maintains building security, conducts fire safety inspections, and makes frequent security checks at the residence hall. Safety and security information is provided to students and college staff through bulletins, crime alerts, posters, and brochures. 

Campus Security does not have police jurisdiction over public or private property. Department staff work in close association with the La Junta Police Department, Otero County Sheriff’s Department, and other federal, state, and local agencies. Arrests and apprehensions are referred to the La Junta Police Department; community fire and ambulance personnel are notified as necessary. All criminal incidents occurring on campus must be reported to Campus Security as soon as possible. 

Colorado law prohibits the possession, consumption, or distribution of alcohol and controlled substances on campus. 

The following information is provided in accordance with Title II of Public Law 101-542, the Crime Awareness and Campus Security Act of 1990. The full report is available in the Office of Student Affairs, printed for distribution in the Campus Safety & Security brochure.

Otero College Campus CLERY and VAWA Statistical Report

The above statistics include Otero College students and non-students.
Otero College’s policy is for the immediate arrest for any Liquor Law related violations.
For more information on the Otero College Campus Crime Statistics, Contact:

David Girard, Director of Physical Plant
719 384-6818

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Colorado law prohibits the possession, consumption, or distribution of alcohol and controlled substances on campus. In compliance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Amendments of 1989 (PL 101-226 in Federal Law), Otero College has developed a Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program. 

Policy Statement – Students, whether full-time or part-time, shall not engage in the unauthorized or unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, use/abuse of alcohol and/or illicit drugs on college property or use as a part of any college activities. 

Legal Sanctions for Violation of the Policy – Any student who is convicted of the above violations is subject to criminal penalties under local, state and federal law. These penalties may range in severity from a fine of up to $100.00 to life imprisonment and/or a fine of $8,000,000. The exact penalty assessed depends upon the nature and severity of the individual offense. 

College Sanctions for Violation of the Policy – Since observation of the policy is a condition of enrollment, any violation may subject the student to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including suspension from the institution. Students may also be required to complete an appropriate rehabilitation or re-entry program as a condition for re-enrollment or continued enrollment in the college. 

Associated Health Risks – Health risks associated with drug and alcohol abuse include, but are not limited to: malnutrition, brain damage, heart disease, pancreatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, mental illness, death, low birth weight babies, and babies with drug addictions. 

Drug-Free Awareness Program – Although there are no alcohol/drug counseling programs on campus, the college does have referral agreements with the Southeast Mental Health Services and Region Six Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center. Referrals are made through the counseling staff working in the Office of Student Affairs in McBride Hall or the student may contact the Colorado Department of Health directly. 

Possession or Use of Marijuana – Although possession and use of marijuana consistent with the requirements of the Colorado Constitution is no longer a crime in the State of Colorado, the possession or use of marijuana remains illegal under federal law. Consistent with federal law, including the Controlled Substance Act and Drug Free Schools and Communities Act, the use and/or possession of marijuana continues to be prohibited while a student is on college owned or college controlled property, and/or any function authorized or supervised by the college and/or in state-owned or leased vehicles. 

Medical Amnesty Policy

Student health and safety are of primary concern at Otero College. As such, in cases of significant intoxication as a result of alcohol or other substances, the College encourages individuals to seek medical assistance for themselves or others. 

If medical assistance is sought, the Vice President of Student Affairs will not pursue conduct charges against the following individuals for violations of the College’s alcohol or drug policies: 

• The intoxicated student and 

• Student(s) actively assisting the intoxicated student. 

Actively assisting requires that an individual: 

• Call La Junta Police Department (719-384-2525 or 911) or seek another individual qualified to assess the student’s condition such as a Resident Hall Director or other Resident Hall professional and 

• Monitor the intoxicated student’s condition. 

The following are not covered by the Medical Amnesty Policy: 

• Students waiting until the police or other authority arrive before seeking assistance 

• Action by police or other law enforcement personnel 

• Violations of the Code of Conduct other than the alcohol/drugs policy 

• Possession with the intent to distribute drugs 

Actions by the Student Conduct Officer: 

• The intoxicated student (and possibly those who were attending to/assisting the student) will be required to meet with the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee who may issue educational requirements that may include, but are not limited to, alcohol and/or drug education, counseling, and/or a substance abuse assessment. 

• Serious or repeated incidents will prompt a higher degree of concern/response. 

• Failure to complete the educational assignments or treatment recommendations normally will result in disciplinary action. 

• The student will be responsible for any costs associated with drug or alcohol education interventions. 

No individual may receive amnesty under this section more than once in a two year period. Records of all requests for assistance under this policy shall be maintained by the Vice President of Student Affairs. Participation in any program as a result of this policy shall not be noted on the student’s judicial record. In the event an individual who previously utilized the Medical Amnesty Policy is involved in a subsequent alcohol-related incident, this incident and any resulting charges shall be treated as an alleged second offense. 

The Medical Amnesty Policy is not intended to shield or protect those students or organizations that repeatedly violate the Code of Student Conduct. In cases where repeated violations of the Code of Student Conduct occur, the College reserves the right to take disciplinary action on a case-by-case basis regardless of the manner in which the incident was reported. 

Medical amnesty applies only to alcohol or other drug-related emergencies but does not apply to other conduct violations such as assault, property damage, or distribution of illicit substances. If other violations occur, then a student will face disciplinary charges for those violations. The use/or abuse of alcohol or drugs is never considered a mitigating circumstance for any other violations of the Student Code of Conduct. 

For more information, go to:  

https://otero.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MedicalAmnesty.pdf 

Title IX Compliance

Any person can make a report by contact the Title IX Coordinator. A report can be made at any time.  

Otero College employees, unless deemed a confidential resource by law, have an ethical obligation to promptly report any incidents they are aware of concerning civil rights violations. Reports should be made within 24 hours, unless there is reasonable justification for a delay. Employees unsure of the scope of this requirement may direct their questions to the Title IX/EO Coordinator. Failure to report will be considered a violation of BP 3-70, Colorado Community College System Code of Ethics, and may result in discipline, up to and including termination. All other individuals affiliated with CCCS are strongly encouraged to report civil rights violations. Reports can be made to the following contacts: 

Title IX/EO Coordinator
Mike Rager
Colorado Community College System
9101 E. Lowry Blvd
Denver, Colorado 80230
(710) 858-2444
mike.rager@cccs.edu 

Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Kelsey Barbee
Director of Human Resources
(719) 384-6824
kelsey.barbee@otero.edu
SCORE Center Room 140 

Notice of Nondiscrimination

Individuals affiliated with the Colorado Community College System, including Otero College shall not discriminate or harass on the basis of sex, gender, race, color, age, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, familial status, veteran or military status, pregnancy or related conditions, marital status, religion, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, sex characteristics, sex stereotypes, gender expression, or any other protected class or category under applicable local, state or federal law (also known as “civil rights laws”), in connection with employment practices or educational programs and activities (including in admissions). BP 19-60 further provides that individuals affiliated with CCCS shall not retaliate against any person who opposes discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, or participates in any complaint or investigation process.

What is Title IX

Title IX is a federal law passed in 1972 that states, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” 

Retaliation Statement

Otero College prohibits any acts of retaliation. Retaliation is defined as any adverse employment or educational action taken against a person because of the person’s participation, or perceived participation, in a complaint or investigation of discrimination and/or harassment. Retaliation also includes any act to intimidate, threaten, coerce, or discriminate against any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege provided by applicable civil rights laws, policies, and procedures.

Policies, Definitions, and Procedures

For more information about Otero College’s policies, procedures, and definitions related to discrimination and harassment complaints, including Title IX, see: 

SP 19-60a Policy: https://cccs.edu/about/governance/policies-procedures/sp-19-60a-civil-rights-and-sexual-misconduct-resolution-process/ – after 8/1/24 

SP 19-60a Policy: https://cccs.edu/about/governance/policies-procedures/sp-19-60a-civil-rights-and-sexual-misconduct-resolution-process-prior/ – prior to 8/1/24

Outside Reporting

Students have the right to make inquiries and/or file a complaint with: 

Office for Civil Rights (OCR) U.S. Department of Education Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building 

1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310 
Denver, CO 80204-3582 
Telephone: (303) 844-5695 
Facsimile: (303) 844-4303 
Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov 
Web: http://www.ed.gov/ocr 

In addition to OCR, employees have the right to make inquiries and/or file a complaint with: 

Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) 
Colorado Civil Rights Division (CCRD) 
1560 Broadway 
Suite 825 
Denver, CO 80202 
Telephone: (303) 894-2997 
Facsimile: (303) 894-7570 
Email: dora_CCRD@state.co.us 
Web: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/dora/civil-rights 

United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) 950 17th Street, Suite 300 
Denver, CO 80203 
Telephone: (800) 669-4000 
Facsimile: (303) 866-1085 
Web: https://www.eeoc.gov/field-office/denver/location 

Student Pregnancy or Related Conditions

Employees who become aware of a student’s pregnancy or related condition are required to provide the student with the contact information of the Title IX/EO Coordinator so they can coordinate specific actions to ensure the student’s access to the college’s educational program or activity. To request reasonable modifications for pregnancy or related conditions, contact the Title IX/EO Coordinator at the above information. 

Reasonable modifications may include, but are not limited to: 

• Breaks during class to express breast milk, breastfeed, or attend to health needs associated with pregnancy or related conditions, including eating, drinking, or using the restroom 

• Intermittent absences to attend medical appointments 

• Access to online or homebound education 

• Changes in schedule or course sequence 

• Extensions of time for coursework and rescheduling of tests and examinations 

• Allowing a student to sit or stand or carry or keep water nearby. 

• Counseling 

• Changes in physical space or supplies (for example, access to a larger desk or a footrest) 

• Elevator access 

• Other changes to policies, practices, or procedures 

• For more information about the college’s policy regarding pregnancy or related conditions, contact the Title IX/EO Coordinator. 

Supportive Measures

“Supportive Measures” are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the Complainant or the Respondent before or after the filing of a formal complaint or where no complaint has been filed. Such measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to educational and employment programs and/or activities without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or the educational/employment environment or deter sexual harassment. Supportive measures may include (but not limited to): 

• Counseling 

• Reporting to law enforcement 

• Extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments 

• Modifications of work or class schedules 

• Campus escort services 

• Mutual restrictions on contact between the parties 

• Changes in work or housing locations 

• Leaves of absence 

• Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus 

• Other similar measures 

For more information about supportive measures, contact the Title IX/EO Coordinator 

Student Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures

Students are expected to adhere to the Student Code of Conduct and policies and procedures of the College and if students are charged with violating this College’s code, they are entitled to have these procedures followed in the consideration of the charge. Copies of the Student Behavioral Expectations & Responsibilities Resolution Procedure are available from the Vice President of Student Affairs or go to https://cccs.edu/about/governance/policies-procedures/sp-4-30a-student-behavioral-expectations-and-responsibilities-resolution-procedure/  

The Student Grievance Procedure is intended to allow students an opportunity to present an issue which they feel warrants actions, including the right to secure educational benefits and services without regard to sex, gender, race, color, age, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, familial status, veteran or military status, pregnancy status, religion, genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, or gender identity, or any other protected class or category under applicable local, state or federal law. Copies of the Student Grievance Procedure are available from the Vice President of Student Affairs or go to https://cccs.edu/policies-and-procedures/system-presidents-procedures/sp-4-31a-student-complaint-procedure/ 

If the basis of the claim is discrimination and/or harassment based on federal or state civil rights laws, the student must file a grievance under the Civil Rights Grievance and Investigation Process. If the accused (respondent) is a student or Otero employee, please refer to SP 19-60a. Copies of the policies can be viewed at https://www.otero.edu/about/policies-procedures/ 

Distance Education Grievance and Appeal Procedures

A student taking any Otero College courses who has a complaint about her or his experience with Otero College has two options: 

• The student can follow Otero College’s process for student complaints, which is located in this document. 

• The student may also contact the Higher Learning Commission, which is Otero’s accrediting agency, at the following web link: Complaints: Higher Learning Commission 

Students who reside outside of Colorado while attending Otero College in many cases can file a complaint in the state where they are residing.  

Before exercising either of the above options, students should know that most (if not all) external complaint processes require that the student exhaust all avenues of complaint internal to the institution before they will consider a grievance. 

Student Bill of Rights

The General Assembly implemented the Student Bill of Rights (C.R.S.23-1-125) to assure that students enrolled in public institutions of higher education have the following rights: 

1. A quality general education experience that develops competencies in reading, writing, mathematics, technology and critical thinking through an integrated arts and science experience;
2. Students should be able to complete their associate of arts and associate of science degree programs in no more than sixty credit hours or their baccalaureate programs in no more than one hundred twenty credit hours unless there are additional degree requirements recognized by the commission;
3. A student can sign a two-year or four-year graduation agreement that formalizes a plan for that student to obtain a degree in two or four years, unless there are additional degree requirements recognized by the commission;
4. Students have a right to clear and concise information concerning which courses must be completed successfully to complete their degrees;
5. Students have a right to know which courses are transferable among the state public two-year and four-year institutions of higher education;
6. Students, upon completion of core general education courses, regardless of the delivery method, should have those courses satisfy the core course requirements of all Colorado public institutions of higher education;
7. Students have a right to know if courses from one or more public higher education institutions satisfy the students’ degree requirements;
8. A student’s credit for the completion of the core requirements and core courses shall not expire for ten years from the date of initial enrollment and shall be transferable. 

Sexual Harassment Statement

Sexual harassment is a violation of federal law, a violation of professional ethics, and a form of discrimination. It is the policy of Otero College that unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment or educational opportunity; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is the basis for employment or educational decisions affecting such individuals; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or educational performance, creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or learning environment. Such conduct will not be tolerated. Substantiated charges will result in disciplinary action. Questions or complaints should be directed to the Director of Human Resources, McDivitt Rm 140, or 719-384-6824. For more information go to: https://www.otero.edu/about/policies-procedures/ 

Campus Sex Crime Prevention Act

The Campus Sex Crime Prevention Act, and Colorado Law, provides a way to track convicted sex offenders. Post-secondary institutions are required to issue a statement advising the campus community where law enforcement agency information may be obtained concerning registered sex offenders. (C.R.S. 23-5-125). Information may be obtained by contacting the La Junta Police Department at: 601 Colorado Ave. La Junta, CO 81050, 719-384-2525. 

Confidential Resources

On Campus Resources

Mental Health Counselor 
Danya Herrell 
(719) 384-6945 
danya.herrell@otero.edu 
Learning Commons 117 

Off Campus Resources

ValleyWide Health Services

711 Barnes Avenue – La Junta, CO 81050 (719) 384-5446 –https://valley-widehealth.org/our-services/behavioral-health-services/

Arkansas Valley Resource Center and Otero College have come together to collaborate to serve victims of violent crimes. Arkansas Valley Resource Center serves victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking and all other victims of violent crime. Arkansas Valley Resource Center will provide safety planning, peer counseling, advocacy, info/support, assistance with victim’s compensation and victim’s rights to Otero College students upon direct student request, or by referral from Otero College staff or faculty. 

Referrals will be made when necessary to other networking agencies. 

Victims of sexual offenses can also be seen confidentially through the Arkansas Valley Resource Center. 

Arkansas Valley Resource Center, Inc.  
PO BOX 716  
415 Colorado Ave La Junta, CO 81050 
24/7 Hotline (719) 384-7764  
Fax (719) 384-1938  
TTD (719) 384-1938  
www.arkansasvalleyresourcecenter.org 

24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline

RAINN – 1-800-656-HOPE
https://rainn.org/resources 

Immediate Medical Attention, Preservation of Evidence Statement of SANE Examination

If you are a victim of a sexual assault, you may decide to request a medical forensic exam from a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) to preserve evidence that may be used for the purposes of legal action. While you do not need to decide immediately if you want to report to law enforcement or pursue legal action, the preservation of evidence is most effective when done immediately after an assault. It is ideal to obtain medical treatment as soon as possible before bathing, showering, douching, or changing clothes. There is no cost to the exam. You may go to the following emergency room providers to request a SANE exam: 

Parkview Medical Center 400 West 16th Street Pueblo, CO 81003 phone: 719-584-4400. 

If you do not have transportation to the facility, you may contact a friend or family member, or Arkansas Valley Resource Center at 719-384-7764. Any cost for transportation is the responsibility of the student. 

Victims who chose to have a medical forensic examination done are not obligated, at any time, to participate in a law enforcement investigation or any criminal justice response along with any administrative proceedings with the College. If you have further questions, please contact the Deputy Title IX/EO Coordinator. 

Training Materials

For information about obtaining training materials for Coordinators, Informal Resolution Facilitators, Investigators, Decision-Makers, and Appeals, please contact the Title IX/EO Coordinator. 

Building Evacuation & Traffic Regulations

Building Evacuation

Do not ignore a fire alarm. Notify the Otero Physical Plant at 719-384-6818. If you see smoke, immediately call 911. Instructors should take charge of the classroom. Direct all room occupants to evacuate the classroom in a safe and orderly fashion. Be familiar with the classroom and building exits. Refer to the Evacuation Plans that are posted in all campus buildings. Exit the building through the nearest corridor away from smoke or fire. Some classrooms have direct exits to the outside. Do not exit the building through a storage area. Do not use the elevator. Remain as a group outside the building until the source of the alarm condition has been verified by a Physical Plant employee. Re-enter the building once clearance has been given by a Physical Plant employee, police, or fire authority.

Campus Traffic Regulations

Students and college employees are expected to observe posted campus traffic regulations. The maximum speed permitted is 15 MILES PER HOUR, and vehicles are to park only in the designated areas on the campus.