Children on Campus Procedure


1. Overview

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure the implementation of the Children on Campus Policy at Hudson County Community College ("College"), recognizing that our students, faculty, and staff shoulder many responsibilities in their lives, including, for some, the responsibility of caring for children.

When an extenuating circumstance requires students or employees who are parents/guardians to bring their children to campus, this procedure allows instructors and/or supervisors to permit child(ren) on campus.

2. Procedure for Students

When students are on campus, but not in class, children may accompany them in common areas and offices, including the College Libraries, on-campus dining areas, the Student Center, and student lounge areas. On both campuses, parents can find lactation pods, family bathrooms with changing tables, high chairs, and activity packs.

Students who are parents/guardians with unexpected childcare needs requiring their child(ren) to accompany them to class should check each class syllabus, keeping in mind that the procedure may differ for each class. The syllabus for each class should state one of the following:

  1. Children are permitted in the classroom (No Prior Permission Needed)
  2. Children may be permitted in the classroom (Advanced Permission Required)
  3. Children are not permitted in the classroom

If the syllabus does not include information about children in the classroom, the student should contact the faculty member to determine the faculty member's classroom procedures regarding children. The faculty member is not obligated to grant permission, and their decision is final.

If students cannot attend class because their child is not permitted in the classroom, they are encouraged to schedule a meeting with their instructor during office hours, in person or virtually, to discuss their current situation. Students should proactively contact their instructor to minimize disruptions to their education, such as missed classroom work or assignments. Students with ongoing childcare concerns are encouraged to utilize support provided by the College, such as the Hudson Helps Resource Center (HHRC) and Support for Student Parents.

3. Procedure for Faculty and Staff

Employees (full-time and part-time) who are parents/guardians with unexpected childcare needs requiring their child(ren) to accompany them to work should contact their supervisor within a reasonable timeframe. The employee should communicate the request to the supervisor in accordance with the communication practices set forth by the supervisor. The supervisor should use their discretion based on the nature of the work and the office environment. The supervisor is not obligated to grant permission and may consult with their Cabinet officer.

When deemed appropriate, the supervisor may work with the employee to offer an alternative working arrangement if the child is not permitted to be in the work environment, such as working alternative hours or remotely.

4. Appropriate Use of Policy and Procedure

Any issues or concerns related to the Children on Campus Policy or Procedure should be addressed through the appropriate complaint processes, which are available in the HCCC Student Handbook and Employee Handbook. Concerns may also be submitted via the Care and Concern Form.

5. Supervision of Children on Campus

Parents are expected to set appropriate behavioral expectations and supervise their children while on campus. In the case of disruptive behavior, the parent may be asked to remove the child from the classroom or workspace. The College offers Kiddie Kits in many areas, and parents are encouraged to bring quiet activities or check out books from the library. The College often hosts child- and family-friendly events. Changing tables are available in several male, female, and gender-neutral bathrooms, and there is a lactation pod on each campus. High chairs are available in on-campus dining areas.

In no event will children be permitted in or around areas where potential hazards exist, including, but not limited to, food, biological, and chemical laboratories. Children must always be under the supervision of their parent or guardian, and it is the sole responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure that their child(ren) are properly supervised.

6. Assessment

The Vice President for Human Resources or designee will review the implementation of the procedure on a regular basis to ensure this procedure is conducted in a fair, consistent, and equitable manner consistent with the College's Mission, Vision, and Values Statements.

 

Approved by: Cabinet
Category: Human Resources
Responsible Office(s): Human Resources, Student Affairs and Enrollment

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