Dec 15, 2025  
2025-2026 College Catalog 
  
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2025-2026 College Catalog

Student Information

SFSC Campus Store (Highlands Campus)

The SFSC Campus Store is located on the first floor in Building B. The store carries all required textbooks and supplies. Textbooks may be purchased in-person at the SFSC Highlands Campus (Avon Park) Campus Store at the beginning of each term. Textbooks can also be purchased on the store’s website. When purchasing textbooks and other class materials, be sure that you have the right textbook for your class prior to breaking any shrink wrap or packaging materials, as opened packages cannot be returned. Access codes may be refunded in original purchase condition and receipt. Access cards that have been accessed, scratched off, or damaged are ineligible for refunds. Campus Store hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday. During the summer term, hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Textbooks may be returned only if the cash register receipt is available, the textbooks are undamaged, and the return is within the Drop with Refund Period (See SFSC Campus Store Policy). The Campus Store purchases used textbooks if the books are in reasonable condition and the College has an immediate need for them. The SFSC Campus Store serves Starbucks® coffee. For more information, call the SFSC Campus Store at 863-784-7112 or visit ShopSFSC.com.

Food Services

The Highlands Campus houses Kelly’s Bistro by the Bay and vending machines in the Joseph E. Johnston Memorial Student Center. Kelly’s is open for breakfast 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and lunch 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Hours vary in the summer and are posted in the cafeteria. SFSC also operates the Hotel Jacaranda Restaurant. The DeSoto and Hardee campuses, as well as the Lake Placid Center, have vending machines, microwave ovens, and student lounge spaces for breaks and meals.

Panther Athletics

SFSC offers intercollegiate athletic programs in women’s softball, women’s volleyball, women’s cross country, and men’s baseball. SFSC is a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) affiliate participating as a Division I college in the Suncoast Conference of Florida. Athletic scholarships are offered in each of the College’s four sports.

The home facilities for Panther Athletics are Panther Gym (volleyball) and Panther Athletic Complex (baseball/softball/cross country). More information regarding Panther Athletics can be found on our SFSC website under “Athletics.”

Student Activities

You may participate in a variety of College clubs and organizations, cultural events, games, intercollegiate athletics, and other programs. Many of these activities are supported by student activity fees. You are encouraged to participate in the College’s decision-making processes through active involvement in the Student Government Association (SGA) and various College-wide committees such as the Student Judicial Committee, Curriculum Committee, and program advisory committees.

Committee descriptions and procedures for participation and service are available from the SGA advisor and the vice president of student services. Students are also encouraged to use the Panther Activity Center (PAC), the GamePad, and the SFSC Fitness Center. Additional information about various activities can be found in the Student Handbook or from the SGA Office, or at any campus or center.

Student Complaint/Grievance Procedure

To provide, at the lowest possible level, equitable resolution for student complaints and grievances.

I. Definitions:
  A. Complaint - An informal allegation by a student(s) that there has been:
    1. A breach, misinterpretation, or improper application of College policies and procedures.
    2. Violation or misapplication of any law, statute, or constitutional guarantee, an arbitrary or capricious application of, or a failure to act pursuant to the written policies and procedures of the College.
    3. An arbitrary, improper, or capricious practice which results in unjust or inequitable treatment of the student.
    4. Violation of policy as stated by the District Board of Trustees (DBOT).
  B. Grievance - A formal written allegation by a student(s) that there has been:
    1. A breach, misinterpretation, or improper application of College policies and procedures.
    2. Violation or misapplication of any law, statute, or constitutional guarantee, an arbitrary or capricious application of, or a failure to act pursuant to the written policies of the College.
    3. An arbitrary, improper, or capricious practice which results in unjust or inequitable treatment of the student.
    4. Violation of policy as stated by the DBOT.
  C. Complainant or Aggrieved - the person(s) against whom mistreatment has been allegedly practiced.
  D. Respondent - the person(s) who allegedly practiced or whose actions allegedly resulted in mistreatment against the complainant.
 
II. Informal Procedure:
  The informal procedure, outlined below, shall be utilized first by the student(s) to address a complaint. The procedure shall be conducted without the use of any recording device. In the event that a student or students believe there is a basis for a complaint, they shall:
  A. Make an appointment and informally discuss the complaint with the respondent concerned within 14 College workdays of the date of the alleged mistreatment.
  B. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision, or is unwilling to discuss the matter with the respondent, the student shall, within seven College workdays, informally discuss the complaint with the appropriate department chair, director, or division dean.
  C. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision, he/she shall, within seven College workdays, informally discuss the complaint with the vice president of student services, if they have not done so already.
  D. If the complainant is still dissatisfied, they shall begin the formal procedure within seven College workdays of the discussion with the vice president of student services.
 
III. Formal Procedure:
  A. If, as a result of the informal procedure, the complainant is still dissatisfied with the decision, the student(s) may invoke a formal grievance procedure by outlining the complaint in writing. Two copies of the grievance, signed by the student(s) concerned and dated, shall be filed with the vice president of student services.
  B. Within seven College workdays of the receipt of the formal written grievance, the vice president of student services shall transmit the written grievance to the appropriate division dean. The dean, within seven College workdays of receipt of the written grievance, shall hold a formal meeting with all parties, to review the written grievance and to hear the grievance in person. The meeting(s) shall be audio recorded.
  C. Within seven College workdays of the end of the formal hearing, the dean shall indicate his/her decision in writing with regard to the disposition of the grievance to the complainant and respondent with copies to the vice president of student services and to the vice president of academic affairs (VPAA).
  D. Within seven College workdays of the decision of the division dean, the complainant or respondent may appeal the dean’s decision in writing to the VPAA.
  E. The VPAA will meet with complainant and respondent within 14 College workdays to review the written appeal and to hear the appeal in person.
  F. The VPAA shall indicate his/her decision in writing within seven College workdays of the appeal hearing. The decision of the VPAA is final.
  G. No reprisals or retaliation of any kind shall be taken against any student or any others for participating in any complaint/grievance process.
  H. Nothing contained in this procedure shall be construed to deny any student any rights or benefits guaranteed by law.
  I. The number of days indicated at each level of discussion shall be considered as maximum and every effort shall be made to expedite the process. However, the time limit may be extended if circumstances warrant.
  J. The student(s) filing the complaint/grievance may withdraw a complaint/grievance at any level at any time during the grievance procedure.
  K. All documents, forms, communications, and records dealing with a complaint shall be filed separately from the permanent record files of the participants, and shall be kept confidential under Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regulations. A copy of the complaint, all documents, forms, communications, records as well as the final disposition shall be filed in the Office of the Vice President of Student Services in a locked file cabinet located in a locked room.
  L. Complainants and/or respondents may have legal counsel present for consultation during any or all parts of the formal grievance process; however, legal counsel may not speak for or represent their client in any of the meetings or hearings. Complainants and respondents shall be responsible for all fees connected with legal counsel.

Student Conduct and Discipline

SFSC has the right and the duty to protect its educational activities, its students through the reasonable regulation of your conduct, and the use of the institution’s facilities. The vice president of student services or designee is responsible for consideration and action on all disciplinary problems. All decisions will be based on College policy. See Student Handbook for additional information.

Student Rights and Code of Conduct

Your student rights are ensured by the 34 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.), Part 99; the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA); and Section 1002.22, Florida Statutes (F.S.).

I. Primary Rights
  A. Right to inspect and review your education records.
  B. Right to seek to amend your education records.
  C. Right to have some control over the disclosure of information from your education records.
 
II. Definitions
  A. “Student” means any person who is attending or who has attended SFSC.
  B. Student education records are any record (in handwriting, print, film, or other medium) maintained by SFSC or an agent of the College which is directly related to a student, except:
    1. Sole possession records are those maintained by an administrator, member of the District Board of Trustees, faculty, or staff provided only the maker of the record has access to them.
    2. Records created and maintained by the SFSC Law Enforcement unit for a law enforcement purpose.
    3. Employment records provided employment is not contingent upon enrollment and provided the record is used only in relation to the individual’s employment.
    4. Medical records made and maintained in connection with treatment and disclosed only to individuals providing treatment.
    5. Alumni records that only contain information about an individual after he or she is no longer a student.
  C. Personally identifiable information includes, but is not limited to:
    1. Your name.
    2. Name of your parents or other family members.
    3. Your address or your family’s address.
    4. A personal identifier, such as your Social Security Number or generated identification number.
    5. A list of personal characteristics, a photograph, or other information that would make your identity easily traceable.
 
III. Annual Notification Requirement
  You are notified of your FERPA rights through the SFSC Catalog and Student Handbook which are posted on the College’s website.
 
IV. Procedure to Inspect Education Records
  A. You must submit a written request to inspect and review your education records to the SFSC registrar. The request shall identify as precisely as possible the record or records you wish to inspect.
  B. Inspection and review of education records shall take place in the Student Services building on the Highlands Campus or other center/campus locations. If you cannot come to one of these locations, you may request that copies be made and mailed. There are no fees for copying and mailing of documents.
  C. The registrar shall make arrangements for access as promptly as possible and notify you of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Access must be given in 30 days or less from the receipt of the request. Proper identification such as a valid driver’s license must be presented before inspection is allowed. The request for access or release shall be retained in your file.
 
V. Refusal to Provide Copies
  While SFSC cannot deny you access to your education records, it may deny you a copy of such records if:
  A. You have an unpaid financial obligation to the College.
  B. An unresolved disciplinary action against you is pending.
 
VI. Disclosure of Education Records
  SFSC will disclose personally identifiable information from your education records ONLY with your written consent.
 
  Exception - SFSC may disclose educational records to school officials who have a legitimate educational interest in the records. School officials are defined as:
  A. A person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, or support staff position or a work study student in the office where the education record is maintained.
  B. A person appointed to the SFSC District Board of Trustees.
  C. A person employed by or under contract to the College to perform a specific task, such as the college attorney, auditor, or consultant.
  D. A student serving as a student representative on a College committee.
 
  Each of these school officials will be properly informed of his or her responsibility to protect your rights and confidentiality of your education records before access is given. A school official has a legitimate educational interest, if the official is:
  A. Performing a task specified in his/her position description or contract.
  B. Performing a task related to your education.
  C. Performing a task related to your discipline.
  D. Providing a service or benefit relating to you or your family, such as health care, counseling, job placement, or financial aid.
 
  Exception - SFSC may disclose educational records to the following:
  A. Upon request to officials of another school in which you seek or intend to enroll.
  B. To certain officials of the U.S. Department of Education, the Comptroller General, and state and local educational authorities, in connection with certain state or federally supported education programs.
  C. In connection with your request for, or receipt of, financial aid as necessary to determine the eligibility, amount, or conditions of the financial aid, or to enforce the terms and conditions of the aid.
  D. If required by a state law requiring disclosure adopted before November 19, 1994.
  E. To organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of the College.
  F. To accrediting organizations to carry out their functions.
  G. To comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena. SFSC shall make a reasonable attempt to notify you before responding to a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena.
  H. To appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency.
  I. For directory information as identified by SFSC. (See Directory Information).
  J. To an alleged victim of a crime of violence the results of the disciplinary proceeding conducted by the College against the alleged perpetrator.
 
VII. Record of Requests for Disclosure
  SFSC maintains a record of all requests for and/or disclosure of information from your education records except for requests from a school official, a party seeking directory information, or your parents, if you are under 18 years of age. This record will indicate the name of the party making the request, any additional party to whom it may be redisclosed, and the legitimate interest the party had in requesting or obtaining the information. This record becomes a part of your education record.
 
VIII. Directory Information
  SFSC may release information classified as directory information without your written permission. The following information has been classified as directory information:
  ● Name
  ● Dates of attendance
  ● Academic program
  ● Honors received (president’s and vice president’s list , cum laude, etc.)
  ● Degree received and date conferred
  ● Lists of prospective graduates
  ● Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  ● Weight and height of athletic team members
  ● Identification card, digitized photographs
  The College may disclose any of these items without prior written consent, unless you have requested non-release of directory information.
 
IX. Non-release of Directory Information
  You may request non-release of directory information at time of registration each term. You may also make this request during the term in the Office of the Registrar or at one of the other SFSC locations. Once requested, non-release shall be maintained until you request that it be removed.
 
X. Limited Access Records
  Limited Access Records include all information not specifically identified as directory information. This encompasses records of admission, enrollment, personal counseling, disciplinary action, finance, financial aid, health, placement, and testing. The registrar is authorized to release limited access records under the conditions outlined below:
  A. Student Request -
    1. You may authorize release of limited access information by signing a written request (personal letter or request form generated either by SFSC or any other organization).
    2. A copy of the request will be retained by the Custodian of the Record.
  B. Request of Parents/Guardians of Students Under 18 - The parent/guardian presents to the custodian/designee proper identification and proof that you are under 18 and were claimed as a dependent student on the most recently filed IRS tax return.
  C. Request of SFSC Faculty/Administrative Staff - Information is released on a “need-to-know” basis.
  D. Court Subpoena -
    1. Information will be released upon receipt of a subpoena by a court of competent jurisdiction with signed authorization by the student.
    2. If no signed authorization, prior to release of the information, the custodian will notify you by certified letter of the information requested by the court. (NOTE: The College is not required to give you prior notice when responding to a federal Grand Jury subpoena or other law enforcement subpoena that requires that you not be informed of the existence of the subpoena.)
  E. State of Florida Public College/University - Limited access records will be released to another public college or university in the state of Florida through written or electronic request.
  F. Emergency - Information may be released to proper authorities when needed to protect the life, health, or safety of you or other persons.
 
XI. Amendment of Educational Records
  You have the right to request to have an education record corrected that you believe is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of your privacy rights. The following are procedures for correction of these records:
  A. You must submit a written request to the SFSC registrar to amend a record. You should identify the part of the record you want changed and specify why you believe it is inaccurate, misleading or in violation of your privacy or other rights.
  B. SFSC may or may not comply with the request. The registrar will notify you of the decision. If the College decides not to comply, the registrar will advise you of your right to a hearing to challenge the information believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of your rights.
  C. Upon request, SFSC will arrange for a hearing and notify you, reasonably in advance, of the date, place, and time of the hearing.
  D. The hearing will be conducted by a hearing officer who is a disinterested party; however, the hearing officer may be an official of the institution. You shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues raised in the original request to amend your education record. You may be assisted by one or more individuals, including an attorney.
  E. SFSC will prepare a written decision based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing. The decision will include a summary of the evidence presented and the reasons for the decision.
  F. If SFSC decides that the challenged information is not inaccurate, misleading or in violation of your right of privacy, it will notify you that you have a right to place a statement in the record commenting on the challenge information and/or a statement setting forth reasons for disagreeing with the decision.
  G. The statement will be maintained as a part of your education records as long as the contested portion is maintained. If SFSC discloses the contested portion of the record, it must also disclose the statement.
  H. If SFSC decides that the information is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of your right of privacy, it will amend the record and notify you, in writing, that the record has been amended.
 
XII. Right to File a Complaint
  ​If you feel that your right to privacy under FERPA has been violated, you may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education. The complaint must be filed within 180 days of the date of the alleged violation or of the date that you knew or reasonably should have known of it. To file a complaint, contact:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
202-260-3877

XIII. Code of Conduct
  When you are admitted to SFSC, you are subject to the jurisdiction of the College during your enrollment. As a member of the College community, you are expected to act responsibly in all areas of personal and social conduct. You are responsible for the observance of all SFSC District Board of Trustees’ College policies and procedures as published in the College Catalog, the Student Handbook, and other College information bulletins. Violation of any of these rules may lead to disciplinary action in accordance with prescribed procedures for the handling of disciplinary cases and may range from reprimand to expulsion from the College.
 
  The disciplinary function at SFSC is an integral part of the educational mission of the College. Discipline is seen as a tool for guiding and teaching rather than punishment. Unacceptable behavior is often symptomatic of attitudes, misconceptions, and emotional crises; the treatment of these symptoms through education and rehabilitative activities is an essential element of the disciplinary process. Severe disciplinary action against a student, such as suspension or expulsion, is considered and invoked only when other remedies fail. Even in the case of irrevocable expulsion for misconduct, the process will not be considered punitive in the criminal sense but rather the determination that the student is unqualified to continue as a member of the College community.
 
XIV. Freedom of Inquiry and Expression
  Students and student organizations are free to examine and to discuss all questions of interest to them and to express opinions publicly and privately. You are free to support causes by orderly, peaceable, and acceptable means which do not disrupt the regular and essential operations of the College.
 
  When anyone wishes to invite a speaker to the SFSC campus, certain rules must be met by the inviting person or persons. Any speaker, entertainer, consultant, or other person(s) not employed by the College or enrolled in the College, invited or uninvited to the campus for the purpose of addressing, entertaining, consulting, or otherwise contacting any group of students, faculty, or other employees of the College, must provide information to the Office of Community Relations and Marketing at 863-784-7379 in advance of the visit. If the person or persons desire to come on campus uninvited, then it will be the responsibility of the person or persons to notify the Office of Community Relations and Marketing in advance of the visit if a gathering of 100 or more is anticipated.
 
  The institutional control of the campus facilities will not be used as an instrument of censorship. It is the responsibility of the persons who invite outside speakers to make it clear to the College and outside community that all views expressed are not those of the students, faculty, or employees of SFSC.
   
XV. Protection of Freedom of Expression
  You are free to take reasoned exception to the data or views offered in any course of study and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion; however, you are responsible for learning the content of any course of study in which you are enrolled.
 
XVI. Protection Against Improper Disclosure
  Information about student views, beliefs, and political associations which instructors, counselors, and advisors acquire in the course of your work is considered confidential.

Equal Access/Equal Opportunity (EA/EO)

SFSC pledges to provide equal access to education and employment opportunity to all regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, pregnancy, or genetic information. The College adheres to federal and state laws that control equal access/equal opportunity. This pledge covers all aspects of the educational and employment relationship with our students and employees. Concerns regarding this pledge are to be addressed to the EA/EO student coordinator at 863-784-7107.

Smoking and Use of Tobacco Products

Smoking and use of smokeless tobacco (or any device intended to simulate the use of tobacco products) is prohibited in all indoor and exterior areas of each campus, center, and other property under the control of the College.

Initiating Changes at the College

If you have an idea or want to make a request for improvement in the regulations and conditions governing student life at SFSC, you should make your desires known to the Student Government Association (SGA). The SGA will evaluate the proposal, through the SGA coordinator and designated representatives, and make suggestions and recommendations to an appropriate member of the College staff for consideration and action.

If this process does not result in a mutually acceptable outcome, you may request that the proposal be reviewed in the following order:

1. The Learning and Student Success (LASS) Committee;
2. The vice president for academic affairs and student services;
3. The president of the College; and
4. The SFSC District Board of Trustees.

At any step in this process, you may request a recommendation from the vice president of student services of the College.

Student’s Right to Know Information

To provide you with information related to attending SFSC, the following reports, policies, and general information are available to you upon request from the Office of the Vice President of Student Services, Cornelius Complex Room B274, Avon Park. In addition, much of this information is directly accessible on the SFSC website at southflorida.edu. Student Privacy Information: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides certain privacy rights to you related to education records. This information can also be found in this College Catalog. College Graduation and Placement Rates: This information concerns the completion/graduation and placement rates of all full-time students entering college. A table of graduation rates is also available from the Office of Enrollment Management or the Office of Institutional Research. Campus Crime Report and Safety Policies: Crime statistics are reported annually. Safety information is available in the SFSC Student Handbook or addendum. Information regarding sexual predators or offenders attending or employed by an institution of higher learning may be obtained from the local law enforcement agency, the FDLE hotline 888-FL-PREDATOR or 888-357-7332, or the FDLE website at fdle.state.fl.us sexual predators. Drug-Free Campus: This information is provided at the time of admission or employment at SFSC. See current Student Handbook for greater detail. Financial Assistance Information: This information can be found in this College Catalog or is available from the Financial Aid Office, Cornelius Complex, Room B173. Athletic Participation and Financial Support Report and Data: This information can be obtained from the athletic director, Building E, Avon Park. Voter Registration Information: Voter Registration forms are available from the Admissions, Registration, and Records Office in Avon Park, any SFSC Center, or from your county Supervisor of Elections Office. SFSC encourages all students who are 18 years of age and U.S. citizens to register to vote.

Graduation Ceremony Procedures

Two Commencement ceremonies are held (May and December) each year (see College Calendar for dates). If you have completed graduation requirements, you are invited to participate. However, if you have applied for graduation, but have not completed all graduation requirements, you cannot be recognized for honors or high honors during the Commencement ceremony.

If you plan to participate in the Commencement ceremony, you must complete the following pregraduation procedures:

1. Complete an Application for Graduation from the College website, southflorida.edu.
2. Associate and baccalaureate degree students must meet with a counselor, campus/center director, or instructional supervisor for a graduation requirement check to ensure eligibility to graduate. Career Certificate and GED® diploma students must be certified by the director, instructional supervisor, program manager, or coordinator.
3. If you are receiving or have received a federal loan, you must complete a required financial aid exit interview.
4. Complete a graduation satisfaction survey.
5. Pay the graduation fee.