Student Program to Prevent Illicit Use of Drugs and Abuse of Alcohol

Introduction

Atlantic Cape Community College is an educational institution committed to maintaining an environment which allows students to enjoy the full benefits of their learning experience and to understand the negative consequences of the illicit use of alcohol and drugs on their lives. In accordance with the policy approved by the Board of Trustees of Atlantic Cape Community College on August 28, 1990 and in accordance with Public Law 101-226, the college declares that it will make every effort to provide its students with an environment that is free of the problems associated with the unauthorized use and abuse of alcohol and illegal drugs.

The college is committed to promoting the wellness and positive self-development of its students. The unauthorized use and the abuse of alcohol and the illegal use and abuse of drugs inhibit students from attaining the benefit of their learning experience, exposing them to serious illnesses and health risks, and therefore are prohibited.

I. Standards of Conduct

On admission to ACCC, each student accepts a commitment to act in a responsible manner which conforms to generally-accepted standards of adult behavior. Students are expected to familiarize themselves with the college rules and regulations specified in the college catalog and in ACCC’s Student Handbook/Calendar.

It is expected that all students will show courtesy and respect for each other and for administrative officers, faculty and employees. Students must understand and accept the necessity for various college regulations and they must comply with directives of those authorized to enforce regulations.

Students are expected to respect the property of the college and that of others. Damage to or destruction of such property will be considered a matter for disciplinary action.
Possession or use of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or narcotics at any ACCC location is prohibited.

Whenever ACCC students gather during non-school hours under the name of the college, a faculty advisor or sponsor must be present. Such meetings must be listed with the Student Activities Office.

II. Sanctions for Violation of Standards of Conduct

The college’s Code of Student Conduct specifies that any student who acts in a manner contrary to the best interests of the college will be subjected to such penalties as the circumstances justify.

The college reserves the right to dismiss any student whose attendance, in the judgment of the administration, is detrimental to the college or its students.

Specific sanctions:

III. Applicable Legal Sanctions - State and Federal Law

Examples of maximum penalties for specific offenses are noted below:

Maximum
Jurisdiction Offense Penalty
State of NJ Driving while under the influence 3rd offense-loss license/10 years
Federal Alcohol or drugs (DWI) Fine-$1,000
Jail-180 days
State of NJ Heroin/cocaine distribution (1/2 oz. to 5 oz.) Fine-$100,000
Jail-5-10 years
Federal Interstate transport of controlled dangerous substance Fine-$500,000
Jail-life with no parole

IV. Health Risks

While drugs have saved lives, greatly reduced human suffering and improved the quality of life, they may be misused or abused. Psychoactive drugs act on the central nervous system. They may increase activity (stimulants), decrease activity (depressants), or cause hallucinations (hallucinogens).

Every drug has multiple effects that depend on the properties of the drug and the dosage taken. When two or more drugs are taken together, or in sequence, their effects may be stronger than their additive sum.

The effects of drug use are highly individualized. Drug use or abuse can affect a person’s physical, emotional and social health. It can cause accidents, illnesses, drug dependence, overdose and even death. It can cause legal problems, economic problems, school or work problems, and relationship problems. Drug use and abuse can cause serious harm.
The following is a partial list of the common health effects of alcohol and drug use and abuse:

Alcohol

Marijuana

Amphetamines

Cocaine/Crack

Barbiturates

Opiates

Hallucinogens

V. Alcohol and drug resources and services

The Student Development area is available to assist ACCC students with education, information, counseling and referral services for alcohol and drugs.

The department has counselors and staff who have received training in alcohol and drug education and provide confidential, non-judgmental individual counseling. Counselors are available to provide students with help in understanding and identifying factors that may point to abuse of alcohol or drugs by themselves, family or friends.

Counseling is offered to students who need to take the first step in acknowledging the presence of a related problem. Counselors provide referrals to treatment programs and support to students as they make the transition to outside agencies.

The department maintains an up-to-date list of alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs in Atlantic and Cape May counties. Counseling staff have working relationships with county drug and alcohol treatment providers.

The Counseling department is located in J Building, first floor. Students can make confidential appointments with counselors by stopping by the department and seeing the receptionist or by calling 343-5088.

The Health Services Office also provides assistance to ACCC students who may have drug and/or alcohol problems. The College Nurse is on duty, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is located in E-106.