Carthage Technical Center

Process

Systematic Process for Practical Nursing Program

Carthage Technical Center Practical Nursing program ensures that the objectives and content of the program are current to prepare students for success in the workforce and licensure.  Below is a list of the systematic processes utilized to confirm the program is up to date.

The Systematic Program Evaluation Plan (SPEP) of the Practical Nursing program at Carthage Technical Center assures that the Practical Nursing program aligns with the mission and core values of the Carthage Technical Center, the Carthage R-9 School District and Practical Nursing program.  This evaluation process is documented annually in order to consistently meet the standards, expectations and needs of the various individuals and agencies involved with the nursing program.  The SPEPs are reviewed by the Missouri Board of Nursing every 5 years during an onsite visit by representatives of the Missouri Board of Nursing.  The SPEP is updated annually as new data are collected.  Updated annual SPEPs are approved by the nursing faculty, practical nursing Coordinator, and Carthage Technical Center’s administrative personnel.

The purposes and objectives of the SPEP are clearly stated and aligned with the needs of all persons that are served by the Practical Nursing Program, including employers of graduates of the program.  The Practical Nursing Coordinator and faculty review curriculum, program goals, benchmarks and outcomes on an ongoing basis during monthly faculty meetings and the SPEP is updated accordingly with new data annually.

The full SPEP document is available onsite.

Systematic Process for HVAC Maintenance & Technology Program

Carthage Technical Center HVAC Maintenance and Technology Program ensures that the objectives and content of the program are current to prepare students for success in the workforce and licensure.  Below is a list of the systematic processes utilized to confirm the program is up to date.

The Systematic Program Evaluation Plan (SPEP) of the HVAC Maintenance and Technology Program at Carthage Technical Center assures that the HVAC Maintenance and Technology Program aligns with the mission and core values of the Carthage Technical Center, the Carthage R-9 School District and HVAC Maintenance and Technology Program.  This evaluation process is documented annually in order to consistently meet the standards, expectations and needs of the various individuals and agencies involved with the HVAC Maintenance and Technology Program. The SPEP is updated annually as new data are collected.  Updated annual SPEPs are approved by the HVAC Maintenance and Technology faculty, and Carthage Technical Center’s administrative personnel.

The purposes and objectives of the SPEP are clearly stated and aligned with the needs of all persons that are served by the HVAC Maintenance and Technology Program, including employers of graduates of the program.  The faculty review curriculum, program goals, benchmarks and outcomes annually. The SPEP is updated accordingly with new data annually.

Written Plan

Follow-up Plan

Goals & Objectives
The Carthage Technical Center’s Student Follow-up Plan is to assist all qualified students in employment and/or assist with furthering their education upon completion of their program.

Process Overview
Each year, all public schools in Missouri are required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to collect follow-up information on each of their secondary and post-secondary graduates from the previous year approximately 180 days after graduation.  This is completed to determine if the students are employed, attend a post-secondary training facility, college, or in the military.

Procedures and Specific Guidelines

• Enrollment & Accreditation Manager is responsible for all coordination of follow-up activities.

• Student Follow-up data collection:  Approximately 180 days after graduation students will receive a remind message instructing them to complete a short post-graduate follow-up survey.  The students will receive a hard copy of the survey through first-class mail.  They will also receive an online version through email.  To encourage the return of the survey, an incentive for completion of the survey by the due date is included in the process and outlined in the letter. The survey is used to collect completion, placement, and licensure information. This survey is also used to assess the program’s effectiveness and to assess the student level of satisfaction with the education that was received.

The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager collects the information and places the information in the Follow-up Notebook.  The Administrative Assistant will contact the graduates who did not respond to survey by phone.  The contact information in Infinite Campus will be used to contact each graduate.  The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager will send a list of graduates that have not responded to the faculty to enlist their help in contacting each graduate.  Any follow-up information collected will be recorded on a call log and added to the Follow-up Notebook.

• Employer Follow-up data collection: Employer information will be gathered from student follow-up survey responses. An online employer survey will be emailed to the identified supervisor and specific information will be gathered regarding the program’s effectiveness in preparing the graduate for employment. This survey is used to assess the level of satisfaction with the education their employee received from the Carthage Technical Center.
• Maintenance of records:  All information provided on the follow-up surveys are kept in the Follow-up notebook.  Data is entered in Infinite Campus, Annual Report, and shared with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Data collection system.  The information is used by our school and by DESE to analyze students’ education and employment-related activities after high school.
• Communication Plan:  The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager stays in contact with instructors and other support staff members who are collecting follow-up data during the data collection period.  Additionally, instructors are encouraged to reach out to their Advisory Committee members for recommendations regarding appropriate post-secondary training for students in the field and/or potential full or part-time job placement in the area.

• Follow-up Plan Review:  Once all graduate follow-up information is completed, summaries and specific employer feedback will be available for review. This information is made available to the instructional personnel and administrative staff. Carthage Technical Center faculty and administration will review the follow-up plan annually and revise if needed. Summaries and program information will also be reviewed during the Advisory Board Meetings in order to evaluate program effectiveness and improve student outcomes.

Carthage Technical Center Strategic Plan (2025–2030)

Mission:

The mission of the Carthage Technical Center is based upon the belief that all people should have the opportunity to prepare themselves for gainful employment and thereby live democratic, useful, and satisfactory lives.

Vision:

We Believe that each student should acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities (technical and non-technical) of their chosen career.

We Believe that all students will be given the opportunity to improve their leadership abilities, develop a positive attitude, establish good human relations, and determine their goals in life based upon rational thinking.

We Believe technical education is an integral part of the total education program and contributes toward the development of good citizens by upgrading their physical, social, civic, cultural, economic, and technical competencies.

Strategic Objectives & Initiatives

1. Completion, Placement, & Licensure

Goal: Increase student success rates in program completion, state/national licensure exams, and post-graduation job placement.

Initiatives:

• Implement early intervention and mentoring for at-risk students
• Integrate certification/licensure prep into the curriculum from day one
• Expand externship and clinical site partnerships to offer real-world experience and job pipelines
• Conduct career readiness workshops on resume building, employability skills, and licensing application processes

Metrics:

• Increase completion rate to 85%+ within program duration
• Achieve licensure/certification pass rates of 90%+
• Attain 80%+ placement rate within 6 months of graduation

2. Financial Responsibility & Affordability

Goal: Ensure students and the institution are fiscally responsible while increasing access to aid and workforce funding.

Initiatives:

• Offer financial counseling as part of student onboarding
• Expand awareness and access to WIOA, Fast Track, Pell, and employer-sponsored funding
• Develop a scholarship and tuition reimbursement partnership network with local hospitals and HVAC companies
• Monitor program costs and adjust annually to ensure tuition aligns with job market ROI and remains competitive with local programming

Metrics:

• 100% of eligible students apply for financial aid
• Annual program cost analysis review

3. Industry Alignment & Employer Partnerships

Goal: Align curriculum and outcomes with evolving industry standards and local workforce needs.

Initiatives:

• Form Advisory Boards for both programs including local employers and regulatory bodies
• Conduct annual program reviews based on employer feedback, student feedback, and job trend analysis
• Embed employability skills, customer service, and professional expectations into both curricula

Metrics:

• Host annual advisory board meetings
• Partner with local employers for job placement and internships
• Maintain employer satisfaction ratings of 90%+ on graduate performance
   

4. Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum

Goal: Ensure a rigorous, relevant, and consistent curriculum that guarantees student learning and workforce readiness.

Initiatives:

• Align Practical Nursing with Missouri State Board of Nursing and HVAC Maintenance and Technology with EPA/ACCA/OSHA/industry certifications
• Standardize syllabi, competencies, and assessments across cohorts and instructors
• Introduce competency-based learning and simulation labs to enhance mastery
• Use data (test scores, completion, employer feedback) to continually refine curriculum
   

Metrics:

• 100% curriculum alignment with accreditation and licensure standards
• Students demonstrate mastery of core competencies before graduation
• Annual curriculum audit and update cycle established

5. Recruitment & Program Awareness

Goal: Increase enrollment and visibility of the Practical Nursing and HVAC Maintenance and Technology programs through targeted outreach, community partnerships, and branding initiatives.

Initiatives:

• Launch a multi-channel marketing campaign (social media, local radio, career fairs, employer referrals) targeting adults, career changers, and underemployed populations
• Partner with high schools, workforce boards, community organizations, and employers to create referral pipelines
• Host open houses and program information sessions
• Enhance website and digital presence with program videos, application guides, and financial aid info
   

Metrics:

• Increase annual enrollment by 10% year-over-year in each program
• Achieve 30% of new enrollees from targeted outreach sources (workforce board, employer referrals, social media)
  
  

Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

The institutional advisory board meets annually. Faculty, administration, and advisory board members will review the strategic plan annually and make revisions as deemed necessary. The results of the evaluation progress toward achieving the objectives are documented annually.

Ongoing Operation and Maintenance

The institution has a policy for Ongoing Operation and Maintenance of all Physical Facilities, Technical Infrastructure and Distance Education. This policy is guided by the Carthage R9 board policy P5120 Maintenance of Facilities and R 5110 Building and Grounds Maintenance and Inspection.

Board Policy P 5120 Maintenance of Facilities

A maintenance division, under the supervision of the maintenance supervisor, shall be provided to perform maintenance tasks. The primary function of the maintenance division shall be to safeguard the public's investments in school facilities, grounds, and equipment by ensuring their continued useful service to the instruction program and to the community.

Each school principal is charged with the direct supervision of the facility. Custodians are employed to do routine cleaning tasks under the direction of the principal and maintenance supervisor.

Capital outlay work for new and existing building shall normally be done through a general contractor. District employees may be used when the use of a general contractor is not feasible.

The Superintendent of Business is responsible for overseeing the operation of the Physical Plant.

Board Policies are reviewed annually.

R 5110 Building and Grounds Maintenance and Inspection
Each building principal shall give attention to the condition of the buildings in his/her care as to cleanliness, heating, ventilation and general maintenance, in order to safeguard the health, safety and comfort of the students and employees. Principals shall report conditions needing attention to the appropriate administrator.

The principal of each school shall regularly inspect and identify any hazardous conditions in his/her area of supervision and promptly report them in writing to the Superintendent's designee. The reports will identify conditions and suggest corrections. The designee shall regularly report to the Superintendent regarding such conditions and plans to correct.

The Superintendent/designee is directed to maintain a proper preventive maintenance program and include adequate funds to sustain this program in the budget recommendation. Provisions of this program should include the following:

1. The Superintendent and building principals will periodically inspect the buildings and grounds and report findings to the Board.

2. Improvements and additions to the buildings and grounds will be made as established by capital outlay line items approved in the budget by the Board.
3. An adequate custodial services program for all buildings will be maintained.
4. School grounds and fields will be maintained and improved when necessary to ensure a safe, functional and attractive environment.
5. District buildings and equipment will be repaired, painted and replaced as needed.
6. Obsolete equipment will be identified. 

Faculty and staff will meet annually to evaluate the written plan once it has been reviewed and reised as necessary. Once evaluated plans will go on the CTC website and an email is sent to all faculty, staff, and students for review. A timeframe will be given for any questions, commtents, or concerns. Another evaluation meeting may be held if any questions, comments, or concerns arise from the current changes. 

Carthage Technical Center only utilizes distance education on a temporary basis in the event of an emergency campus closure and has approval from accrediting bodies. Carthage Technical Center received temporary authorization from all accrediting bodies to utilize distance education as needed during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Health and Safety

The Carthage Technical Center holds health and safety of the district’s employees, students and guests in high regard.  The following Carthage R9 district policies are in place to assist school personnel: P5230 Accident Reporting, R5230 Accident Reporting, P2830 Health Services, R2860 Student with communicable diseases, P4820 Employees with communicable diseases. Additional resources include:

1. Emergency Notebook -Each teacher in the district has an Emergency Notebook which is referenced during back to school meetings and used in all emergency drills.  Teachers are familiar with the protocols put in place in the event of an emergency.
2. Emergency Drills are scheduled throughout the year.
3. School District Emergency Operations Plan- The district has a School District Emergency Operations Plan in the event that a catastrophic incident such as tornado, fire, etc.

Board Policy P 5230 Accident Reporting

In order that proper measures may be taken to avoid recurrence of accidents, written reports will be prepared on all accidents occurring on school premises or at a school-sponsored activity.

Board Policy R 5230 Accident Reporting

The following guidelines are to be used to determine whether or not a report is to be completed.

A report should be completed when:

1. The accident requires that a doctor be called.
2. The accident results in absence of student for one-half day or more.
3. The accident results in a serious injury.
4. When in doubt about whether or not a report is needed, complete one.

Accident Report Procedure

1. The building administrator, designee or nurse initiates the report.
2. The person in charge at the time of the accident completes the Accident Report form. If the accident involves an employee or volunteer, call the Assistant Superintendent for Business, so a Workers' Compensation report can be made.
3. The Accident Report form is returned in one day to the building office and is forwarded to the principal.
4. The principal reviews the report and makes a recommendation for correction action to be taken or notes action taken.
5. The principal forwards the original copy to the Superintendent/designee. A copy remains in the school.
6. The Superintendent/designee is responsible for evaluation of the report. It is to serve as a basis for a safety and accident prevention program.

Reports will include:

1. Date, time and place of accident.
2. Name and address of injured person(s).
3. Name of staff member(s) in attendance.
4. Type of accident.
5. Personal injuries incurred.
6. Treatment given.
7. Description of the accident.
8. Property damage incurred.
9. Name and address of any parties with first-hand information regarding the accident.
10. Name of staff member making the report.
11. Date and time of parent/guardian notification.

All reports shall be sent to the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall report to the Board in writing all serious accidents and shall also submit to the Board periodic statistical reports on the number and types of accidents occurring in the School District.

Health and Safety falls under the responsibility of the Asst. Superintendent of Business

Board Policies and Procedures are reviewed annually.

In the event of a health outbreak, Carthage Technical Center and the Carthage R9 District will work directly with the local health department and authorities and will follow their guidance to mitigate any spread.

Faculty and staff will meet annually to evaluate the written plan once it has been reviewed and revised as necessary. Once evaluated plans will go on the CTC website and an email is sent to all faculty, staff, and students for review. A timeframe will be given for any questions, comments, or concerns. Another evaluation meeting may be held if any questions, comments, or concerns arise from the current changes.

Institutions Technical Infrastructure

The institution has a policy to ensure the privacy, safety and security of data within the technical infrastructure. This policy is guided by the Carthage R9 board policy R5710 Data Governance and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

The institution has a policy for Ongoing Operation and Maintenance of all Physical Facilities, Technical Infrastructure and Distance Education. This policy is guided by the Carthage R9 board policy P5120 Maintenance of Facilities and R 5110 Building and Grounds Maintenance and Inspection.

Board Policy R 5710 Data Governance

Purpose

It is the District’s policy to the extent possible to ensure that data and information in all its forms, written, electronic or printed is protected from accidental or intentional unauthorized modification, destruction or disclosure. The protection includes an appropriate level of security over the equipment, software and practices used to process, store and transmit data or information.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records.  These rights are:

The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access.  Students should submit to the Carthage Technical Center Director a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The school official will make arrangements for access to notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate or misleading.  Students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading.  They should write the CTC Director, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.  If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the school will notify the student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.  Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.  After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the student has the right to place a statement with the record setting forth his or her view about the contested information.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.  However, FERPA allows schools to disclose those records without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions (34CFR 99.31)

• School officials with legitimate educational interest;
• Other schools to which a student is transferring
• Specified officials for audit or evaluation purposes;
• Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student
• Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the school
• Accrediting organizations
• To comply with a judicial or lawfully issued subpoena
• Appropriate officials in cases of health and safety emergencies;
• State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State Law.

Schools may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance.  However, schools must tell students about directory information and allow students a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them.  Schools must notify students annually of their rights under FERPA.  The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a bulletin, student handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.

For more information or to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA:   1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327, Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202-5901

The Carthage R9 District plan for protection of the institution’s technical infrastructure falls under the Data Governance and Security Plan.

This plan is summarized by the following excerpt:

The district will abide by any law, statutory, regulatory, or contractual obligations affecting its data systems.  Carthage R-9 school district complies with all applicable regulatory acts including but not limited to the following: o Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) o Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) o Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) o Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

The Carthage R9 District plan for data backup falls under the Data Governance and Security Plan.

The plan is summarized by the following excerpt:

Data Integrity

Carthage R-9 School district provides safeguards so that personally identifiable and confidential information is not altered or destroyed in an unauthorized manner. Data is backed up both on and off site for disaster recovery

The full Data Governance and Security Plan is available upon request to staff and students.

Board Policy P 5120 Maintenance of Facilities

A maintenance division, under the supervision of the maintenance supervisor, shall be provided to perform maintenance tasks. The primary function of the maintenance division shall be to safeguard the public's investments in school facilities, grounds, and equipment by ensuring their continued useful service to the instruction program and to the community.

Each school principal is charged with the direct supervision of the facility. Custodians are employed to do routine cleaning tasks under the direction of the principal and maintenance supervisor.

Capital outlay work for new and existing building shall normally be done through a general contractor. District employees may be used when the use of a general contractor is not feasible.

The Superintendent of Business is responsible for overseeing the operation of the Physical Plant.

Board Policies are reviewed annually.

R 5110 Building and Grounds Maintenance and Inspection

Each building principal shall give attention to the condition of the buildings in his/her care as to cleanliness, heating, ventilation and general maintenance, in order to safeguard the health, safety and comfort of the students and employees. Principals shall report conditions needing attention to the appropriate administrator.

The principal of each school shall regularly inspect and identify any hazardous conditions in his/her area of supervision and promptly report them in writing to the Superintendent's designee. The reports will identify conditions and suggest corrections. The designee shall regularly report to the Superintendent regarding such conditions and plans to correct.

The Superintendent/designee is directed to maintain a proper preventive maintenance program and include adequate funds to sustain this program in the budget recommendation. Provisions of this program should include the following:

1. The Superintendent and building principals will periodically inspect the buildings and grounds and report findings to the Board.
2. Improvements and additions to the buildings and grounds will be made as established by capital outlay line items approved in the budget by the Board.
3. An adequate custodial services program for all buildings will be maintained.
4. School grounds and fields will be maintained and improved when necessary to ensure a safe, functional and attractive environment.
5. District buildings and equipment will be repaired, painted and replaced as needed.
6. Obsolete equipment will be identified.

Faculty and staff will meet annually to evaluate the written plan once it has been reviewed and revised as necessary. Once evaluated plans will go on the CTC website and an email is sent to all faculty, staff, and students for review. A timeframe will be given for any questions, comments, or concerns. Another evaluation meeting may be held if any questions, comments, or concerns arise from the current changes.

Carthage Technical Center only utilizes distance education on a temporary basis in the event of an emergency campus closure and has approval from accrediting bodies. Carthage Technical Center received temporary authorization from all accrediting bodies to utilize distance education as needed during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Student Retention
The Carthage Technical Center has a written plan for addressing retention of students. The following policy has been put in place. This policy is located in the Practical Nursing student handbook. 

ACADEMIC EVALUATION AND RETENTION POLICIES
Classroom

1.    Students will receive a progress report for midterm, final grade, and periodically if grade is below 80% of each course. 
2.    After each student has read and signed his/her progress report, a copy will be provided to the student for personal files.
3.    If a student’s in-progress grade falls below 83%, they will be required to sign an advisory agreement and begin attending advisement sessions until satisfactory progress is made. 
4.    Proactive measures will be instituted should a student fail to meet 80% overall in any theory class during the course.  The student will be counseled and assisted in developing a written plan for successfully completing the course.  This plan will include criteria and a time frame for demonstrating improvement.
5.    Theory courses are assigned letter grades.

Dosage Calculation Policy—A dosage calculation exam pass score of 90% is required to begin passing medications starting in the Maternal/Pediatric clinical rotation. Thus, students must score at least 90% on the Dosage Calculation test, if students do not score 90% on their initial test they must attend remediation/supplemental instruction and will have one more opportunity to test prior to the end of First Trimester. Students are required to provide their own calculator.  Calculators on cell phones may not be used during class.

Clinicals

1.    Students will receive a formative performance evaluation most weeks of the clinical rotation.
2.    Clinical performance issues will be addressed by the Program Coordinator and/or nursing faculty with appropriate measures taken.
3.    Should a student in clinical rotation fail the critical outcome criteria as designated in the performance evaluation and clinical syllabus, counseling will be initiated.
4.    Student may be removed from the clinical site and/or Nursing Program if, in the judgment of the program coordinator and clinical instructor, it is in the best interest of the patient/clients.
5.    Excessive absenteeism/tardiness, poor attitude, difficulty with interpersonal relationships, cheating, dishonesty, poor hygiene, lack of initiative, sleeping, failure to follow school/program policies, impaired ability to function, conduct potentially detrimental to safety of patients/clients or other infraction of program standards may lead to dismissal from the program.
6.    Clinical courses will be graded on a Pass/Fail basis.
7.    Student may be dismissed from the program if their clinical eligibility has been terminated by a clinical site during course of the program.

Progression and Retention of Students—The grading and evaluation system at the Carthage Technical Center is designed to encourage the students to be successful in all areas of training.  The Practical Nursing program consists of a series of academic courses and a series of clinical courses.  All courses are established on a point system.  Each activity and examination will be assigned a specific number of points at the instructor’s discretion.  To compute the letter grade, the total number of points earned by the student is divided by the total number of points possible, obtaining a percentage.  Letter grades are assigned by the following system:
    
Grading Scale
    A – 94-100%
B – 87-93.9%
C – 80-86.9%
F – Below 80%
Grades will be distributed periodically by computer printout. The course final and related ATI End-of-Course Exams are both final exams.  Final grades will be distributed at the completion of each theory course and clinical course with the final grades for each being recorded on the student transcript.  A final grade of 80% or higher is required for each theory course and pass/fail grade in each clinical course in order to continue the program of nursing.  Passing grade in clinical courses is 80% or higher.  Final exams will be worth approximately 10% - 20% of the total course grade.  Each course syllabus may super cede program policies stated in this handbook.

Promotion Policy—Students must have a minimum of 80% in each theory course and a Pass in the clinical component in order to remain in the program.  Any student not meeting these requirements will be dismissed from the program.

Rounding of Grades—There will be no rounding up of grades at any level of the academic process.  If a student has a 79.9% grade on an assignment, test or course grade, it will stand.  This standard must be adhered to in order to maintain the academic integrity of the program.

Academic Probation and Supplemental Instruction/Study Sessions — Students performing unsatisfactory in his/her academic progress during any course may be placed on academic probation.  A student’s progress will be considered unsatisfactory when he/she is below an 80% in one or more theory courses. Proactive steps will be taken when a course grade falls below 83% to assist in student success. Students performing unsatisfactorily will be required to attend Supplemental Instruction/Study Sessions scheduled from 3:30-4:30 on class days for the following:
•    Any student whose overall grade in a course has dropped below 83% until his/her grade is at or above 83%
•    Students who score below an 80% on any course exam until his/her next exam in the course is at or above 80% 
•    Students who need to make-up attendance hours based on Attendance Review Board requirements
•    Students who have not met dosage calculation exam expectations per the direction/discretion of the Program Coordinator
•    ATI remediation and completion of retake exams as scheduled by the Practical Nursing Coordinator
The Program Coordinator and instructor(s) will collaborate to establish a suitable program of instruction of remediation during Supplemental Instruction sessions.

**Students that are required to attend Supplemental Instruction, due to grades, and do not meet attendance requirements may be placed on probation and withheld Financial Aid.**

Testing— Students will be allowed 1 minute per question when taking course exams/quizzes.  Instructors may periodically give an open-book exam as he/she deems appropriate.  Students are required to use his/her own textbook during open book exams.

•    Paper Exams - Students are responsible for making sure all questions are answered before submitting the test.  
•    On-line Exams – On-line exams will be completed in class during program hours. If a test is given online the answer that is submitted is what stands as the final answer.
•    Take-Home Exams – 10% will be deducted from take-home exam scores for each day of class that it is late. An exam not turned in at the beginning of class on the date due as directed by the instructor will be considered late and an automatic 10% will be deducted from the exam score. 

Tests/Assignment Results/Scores—Individual results will be distributed to the student in class or returned to the student’s individual mailbox.  Students shall be responsible for monitoring their own grades.  

Pop Quizzes will be not be allowed to be made up. If a student is tardy or absent when the quiz is given, the student will not be allowed to take the quiz or make it up. The student will receive a zero for that quiz.

Challenging Test Questions—Students wishing to challenge a test question will be required to research a question and present findings in writing to the instructor including the following information.  Challenges must include:
1.    The complete question
2.    Rationale for answer
3.    Resource utilized for rationale

Late Work—Assignments not turned in on the date due will be considered late.  Students can receive half credit for these assignments if they are turned within 24 hours of due date.  After that day no late work will be accepted.
Instructors may periodically give assignments where no late work will be accepted due to a lengthy completion time frame.  These exceptions will be communicated in the specific assignment rubric.

Participation Points— Students can earn participation points during each course.  Participation points are outlined in the course syllabus for each course.  These points will be awarded for student attendance and behavior such as engagement in the learning process, responsible and ethical behavior, responsible use of technology, and attendance during the full class session. Only students present in the class for the full class session can earn participation points. Students who are absent for all or part of the class session will receive a “0” for participation unless they have provided official documentation to allow for exempt absence(s); in this case the student will be exempt for the participation point requirements for that class session.
Students are expected to engage in a positive manner with the instructor(s), and classmates.  They are expected to actively participate in classroom learning and activities, including group work.  Students are expected to contribute to the learning environment in the classroom in a cooperative and positive way.  Students are expected to bring learning materials to class, as assigned, for example bringing the correct textbooks, student guides, and assignments for each course.  Students are expected to be honest and trustworthy, and follow classroom procedures and protocols, including safety drills.  The student is expected to respect the authority of each instructor.  Participation points are awarded at the discretion of the instructor; no partial points will be earned or awarded.  
Student behaviors that interfere with the learning process in the classroom include, but are not limited to, cell phone usage, use of computers/laptops in ways that are unrelated to the curriculum, excessive talking, inappropriate or foul language, leaving a class frequently at times other than break times, and disrespectful/disruptive behavior.  These types of behaviors that interfere with learning n the classroom will not be tolerated and will cause loss of all participation points for that class session.  Instructors reserve the right to withhold participation points if a student’s behavior compromises or interferes with the learning environment in the classroom.
ATI End-of-Course/Predictor Exams
1.    Students are required to take the ATI NCLEX-PN Predictor Exam prior to program completion and expected to achieve a passing score.  Students that do not achieve a passing score are required to retake the NCLEX-PN Predictor one additional time at no cost to the student, transcript will be held until completion.  At that point if the student has not achieved a passing score a remediation plan will be recommended prior to taking the NCLEX-PN exam.  The student will have the option to retake the NCLEX-PN Predictor for a second time at which the cost for the second retake will be the responsibility of the student.  Retakes of ATI exams will be scheduled at the discretion of the Program Coordinator.
2.    Students are required to take all ATI End-of-Course Final Exams per the program schedule.  Students who do not achieve a Level 2 are required to remediate and retake the exam up to one additional time at no cost to the student, transcript will be held until completion.  At that point if the student has not achieved a Level 2 a formal remediation plan will be developed to be completed during the NCLEX-PN Prep course in a reasonable time frame set by the Program Coordinator or the course instructor.  
If a student does not achieve a Level 2 after the first retake the student will have the option to complete a second retake at which the cost for the second retake will be the responsibility of the student. Retakes of ATI exams will be scheduled at the discretion of the Program Coordinator or course instructor.
3.    Standardized ATI End-of-Course Final Exams will count for 50-100 points towards the related course grade with the Level 2 score being the equivalent of the total points or 100% of the exam score.  Students are expected to score at least a Level 2 on all ATI End-of-Course Final Exams prior to program completion per ATI exam policy. If a student does not achieve a Level 2 on ATI End-of-Course Final Exams after all retakes have taken place a remediation plan will be recommended prior to taking the NCLEX-PN Exam.
4.    Proctored Exams - In support of ATI guidelines, students are prohibited from having electronic devices (including cell phones), food/drink, purses, books, backpacks, etc. at or under their testing station/location during proctored exams.  Students who do not follow these guidelines risk losing the opportunity to complete his/her exam and may be assigned a “0” for his/her exam grade.  Any student noted to be involved in cheating during an ATI proctored exam may be given a zero “0” for his/her exam grade.
5.    Students are required to complete all ATI reviews. Transcripts may be held until all have been completed. 

The Student Retention and Effectiveness plan is evaluated on an annual basis and revised as necessary. An email is sent out each year with a deadline requesting any input from both students and staff. Results of student retention are shared with facility and staff through annual CPL data emailed out and given during advisory board meetings. 

Admission by Exception

Carthage Technical Center and its programs does not utilize admission by exception.

Placement Services

Goals & Objectives
The Carthage Technical Center’s Student Placement Services Plan is to assist all qualified students in employment and/or assist with furthering their education upon completion of their program.

Process Overview
Each year, all public schools in Missouri are required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to collect follow-up information on each of their secondary and post-secondary graduates from the previous year approximately 180 days after graduation.  This is completed to determine if the students are employed, attend a post-secondary training facility, college, or in the military.

Procedures and Specific Guidelines

• The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager and Program Coordinator is responsible for all coordination of placement services.

• Communication Plan:  The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager and Program Coordinator creates a network of communication between program faculty and staff and various businesses and industries of service in the community.

• Listing of employment opportunities:  A listing of current job openings is available & is updated on the “Jobs Board”.  All students have access to this information.  Any job opportunities may also be shared by the program faculty with the students on remind, social media, and/or email.

• Student Services: Students have access to all Carthage Technical Center faculty and staff.  Individual Counseling is available if requested by the student and/or recommended by the program faculty. 

All students can utilize placement services both prior to and following graduation. Carthage Technical Center hosts numerous career events for the students such as Employers Panels, Employer Information Meetings during lunch, guest speakers and the utilization of clinical rotation experiences. During the program students are given the opportunity to receive resume help and job interviewing skills.Graduates receive a leather portfolio to use for future job interviews.

• Maintenance of placement records:  Placement information is gathered on the student follow-up survey. All information provided on the follow-up surveys are kept in the Follow-up notebook.  Data is entered in Infinite Campus and shared with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  The information collected is used by the school and by DESE to analyze student’s education and employment-related activities. Placement information is also used to measure the success of the institution in achieving its mission.

• Placement Services Review:  Once all graduate follow-up information is completed, summaries and specific employer feedback will be available for review. This information is available to the instructional personnel and administrative staff.  Carthage Technical Center faculty and administration will review the placement plan annually and revise if needed. Summaries and program information will also be reviewed during the Advisory Board Meetings in order to evaluate program effectiveness and improve student outcomes.

Faculty and staff will meet annually to evaluate the written plan once it has been reviewed and revised as necessary. Once evaluated plans will go on the CTC website and an email is sent to all faculty, staff, and students for review. A timeframe will be given for any questions, comments, or concerns. Another evaluation meeting may be held if any questions, comments, or concerns arise from the current changes. 

Placement Services

Goals & Objectives

The Carthage Technical Center’s Student Placement Services Plan is to assist all qualified students in employment and/or assist with furthering their education upon completion of their program.

Process Overview

Each year, all public schools in Missouri are required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to collect follow-up information on each of their secondary and post-secondary graduates from the previous year approximately 180 days after graduation.  This is completed to determine if the students are employed, attend a post-secondary training facility, college, or in the military.

Procedures and Specific Guidelines

• The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager and Program Coordinator is responsible for all coordination of placement services.

• Communication Plan:  The Enrollment & Accreditation Manager and Program Coordinator creates a network of communication between program faculty and staff and various businesses and industries of service in the community.

• Listing of employment opportunities:  A listing of current job openings is available & is updated on the “Jobs Board”.  All students have access to this information.  Any job opportunities may also be shared by the program faculty with the students on remind, social media, and/or email.

• Student Services: Students have access to all Carthage Technical Center faculty and staff.  Individual Counseling is available if requested by the student and/or recommended by the program faculty. 

All students can utilize placement services both prior to and following graduation. Carthage Technical Center hosts numerous career events for the students such as Employers Panels, Employer Information Meetings during lunch, guest speakers and the utilization of clinical rotation experiences. During the program students are given the opportunity to receive resume help and job interviewing skills.Graduates receive a leather portfolio to use for future job interviews.

• Maintenance of placement records:  Placement information is gathered on the student follow-up survey. All information provided on the follow-up surveys are kept in the Follow-up notebook.  Data is entered in Infinite Campus and shared with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.  The information collected is used by the school and by DESE to analyze student’s education and employment-related activities. Placement information is also used to measure the success of the institution in achieving its mission.

• Placement Services Review:  Once all graduate follow-up information is completed, summaries and specific employer feedback will be available for review. This information is available to the instructional personnel and administrative staff.  Carthage Technical Center faculty and administration will review the placement plan annually and revise if needed. Summaries and program information will also be reviewed during the Advisory Board Meetings in order to evaluate program effectiveness and improve student outcomes.

Faculty and staff will meet annually to evaluate the written plan once it has been reviewed and revised as necessary. Once evaluated plans will go on the CTC website and an email is sent to all faculty, staff, and students for review. A timeframe will be given for any questions, comments, or concerns. Another evaluation meeting may be held if any questions, comments, or concerns arise from the current changes.