Parental Notification - Handbook

Middle Tennessee State University recognizes that students, parents, and the University are in a partnership in which each has the responsibility to promote a healthy and productive educational experience. The University disciplinary process exists to provide corrective action that is educational and developmental, to protect the campus community, and to maintain an environment conducive to learning. Violations of the MTSU alcohol and drug policy can detract from that learning environment. We believe parents can assist students in fulfilling their educational goals through the use of open dialogue.

Due to amendments to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) by the U.S. Department of Higher Education, it is permissible for Middle Tennessee State University to notify the parent or guardian of students under the age of 21 when those students have been found responsible for alcohol- and drug-related offenses.

If a student under the age of 21 is found to be responsible for the use and/or possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia, the resultant sanction will include notification of the parent/guardian by the dean of Student Life. In the event of a first or second violation of the alcohol policy by a student, the resultant sanction may include, but is not limited to, probation, developmental counseling, and community service. In addition to the aforementioned sanctions, a third violation of the alcohol policy by a student under the age of 21 will result in the notification of the parent/guardian by the dean of Student Life.

In addition, the parent/guardian may be contacted in any instance in which the health or safety of the student has been threatened either through the student's own acts or the acts of others.