VSOHA Policies

STUDENT STATEMENT OF RIGHTS

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY

ACADEMIC PROBATION POLICY

ADDITIONAL COURSES OR AUDITING COURSES POLICY

ADMISSION POLICY

ASSIGNMENT COMPLETION POLICY

ATTENDANCE POLICY

CAMERA & HEADPHONE POLICY

DISABILITY STATEMENT

DISMISSAL AND CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY

DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND GRADE APPEAL POLICY

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & BELONGING STATEMENT

ETHICS, INTEGRITY & TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT

FAILED COURSE POLICY

FINAL EXAM & FINAL DEMONSTRATION REWRITE POLICY

GOOD STANDING POLICY

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT POLICY

LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

PARTICIPATION & PROFESSIONALISM POLICY

PAYMENT POLICY

REFUND AND WITHDRAWAL POLICY

REPEATING COURSES POLICY

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY

SNOW EMERGENCY CLOSING POLICY

SOBRIETY POLICY

STUDENT ASSISTANCE POLICY

THIRD PARTY FUNDING AGENCY POLICY

TRANSFER OF CREDIT/PRIOR LEARNING ASSESSMENT POLICY

ZOOM ETIQUETTE FOR ONLINE CLASSES

STUDENT STATEMENT OF RIGHTS

VANCOUVER SCHOOL OF HEALING ARTS (the “College”) is certified with the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the British Columbia Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training.

Before you enroll at a certified private training institution, you should be aware of your rights and responsibilities.

You have the right to be treated professionally by the College. Additionally, the College will endeavour to treat every individual with respect and fairness.

You have the right to a student enrolment contract that includes the following information:

• The amount of tuition and any additional fees for your program
• The College’s refund policy
• If your program includes a work experience, the requirements to participate in the work experience and the geographic area where it will be conducted
• Whether the program was approved by PTIB or does not require approval.

Make sure you read your enrollment contract before signing.  The College will provide you with a signed copy after you have signed your enrollment contract.

You have the right to access the College’s Dispute Resolution Process and to be protected against retaliation for making a complaint due to the College’s Non-Relation Policy.

You have the right to make a claim to PTIB for a tuition refund if:

• The College loses its PTIB certification before you completed an approved program
• You were factually misled about a significant aspect of your approved program.

In order to receive a refund via PTIB’s Claim process, you must file the claim within one year of completing, being dismissed or withdrawing from your program.

For more information about PTIB and how to be an informed student, go to: http://www.privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca/students/be-an-informed-student.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PROBATION POLICY

All incidences of academic dishonesty and violations of academic integrity will be disciplined.  Students will receive an automatic fail on any submission of work (assignment, presentation, exam, etc.) that includes academic dishonesty and be required to meet with the Director of Education.  Further disciplinary actions can include suspension of studies and expulsion.

Such acts cannot be listed exhaustively but examples include:

• Plagiarism – Submission of the work of another person for credit, or failure to properly cite references for any work which is not original to the student; copying the work of others, allowing another student to copy from the student
• Unauthorized use of notes or materials in exams, including communicating to other students
• Forging or altering assignments
• Un-permitted collaboration, giving or receiving aid on a take home exam, or other academic assignment under circumstances in which a reasonable person should have known that such aid was not permitted·  Allowing others to copy or use work that is not their own.

ACADEMIC PROBATION POLICY

Where a student fails to demonstrate skills or academic competency in one or more courses, such that there is a reasonable risk the student may not meet the grading standard or threshold required to successfully pass the course, the College may place the student on academic probation.

Academic probation is a formal written warning from the College establishing minimum criteria that the student must achieve in order to continue studies beyond the semester in which academic probation is delivered.

ADDITIONAL COURSES OR AUDITING COURSES POLICY

Students and alumni are welcome to take additional course outside of their program for enrichment. To receive a grade for the course, the course tuition will be pro-rated for the length of the course. To audit the course for no grade, the course tuition will be pro-rated for the length of the course and reduced by 50%.

ADMISSION POLICY

The College is committed to enrolling students who meet program admission criteria and who are likely to succeed in achieving their education and career goals.  For admission to the College, an applicant must meet the following criteria for each specific program:

Bodywork Therapy
Yoga Teacher Training – Enriched
Yoga Teacher Training – Advanced
Career Yoga Teacher Training
Foundations of Yoga Therapy
Advanced Yoga Therapy
C-IAYT Yoga Therapy

*If an applicant does not meet our minimum admission requirements, the requirements cannot be waived by either the College or the applicant.

ASSIGNMENT COMPLETION POLICY

Late assignments will have 5% per day deducted from the final assignment mark (e.g. If an assignment is out of 10 marks, and it is handed in late by one day, there will be 0.5 mark deducted from the total mark given by the instructor).  An assignment will be considered late if it is handed in past the time established by the instructor, or if no time is established, then 5pm on the day it is due.

All assignments must be submitted in order to complete and pass each course at the College. Students, who are unable to complete the course requirements due to medical or personal circumstances, are responsible for making alternate arrangements with their instructor or the Senior Education Administrator and providing supporting evidence that may be requested by the College.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

The minimum attendance required of every student is 80%; a student must not miss more than 20% of the student’s enrolled classes, calculated by instruction unit and in aggregate. Attendance is measured and calculated in half day increments.

If a student provides reasonable proof of medical illness, family or personal emergency, the College may excuse the absence. It is the student’s responsibility to request that an absence be treated as excused and to provide sufficient and credible evidence in support of this request.

Where a student’s attendance drops below 80% due to one or more excused absences, the student must make arrangements with the instructor(s) or the Senior Educational Administrator to ensure that the student meets the class learning objectives and meets all class requirements.

CAMERA & HEADPHONE POLICY

DISABILITY STATEMENT

Vancouver School of Healing Arts believes that to the greatest extent possible, students with disabilities should be encouraged and assisted to enroll and participate in the studies of their choice. While there may be physical, mental, or emotional disabilities that can affect how an individual engages with the experiential academic programs the College offers, this often does not take away from any student’s ability to make meaningful contributions in the industries the College provides instruction in. The College is committed to helping individuals earn the education they need to make the significant contributions they wish to make in these industries and through its Student Assistance Policy, the College will strive to provide reasonable accommodations to help these individuals wherever possible.

DISMISSAL AND CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY

The College expects each student to adhere to the Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct governs behaviour toward students, staff members, and clients who are being treated by a student as fulfillment toward a credit in the program. If needed, a student should request clarification about the Code of Conduct from the Senior Educational Administrator or President.

Code of Conduct

The College expects each student to:

1. Attend College in accordance with the Attendance Policy;
2. Treat every student, client and each staff member with respect;
3. Dress professionally, appropriate for the program you are enrolled in;
4. Treat College property with respect;
5. Complete all assignments and examinations on time.
6. The institution prohibits:
   • disruptive or offensive classroom behavior;
   • bringing a weapon of any kind (i.e. knives, guns, etc.) to College;
   • bringing to the College or to a College event held elsewhere an alcoholic beverage, marijuana or any mood-altering substances prohibited by law;
   • arriving on campus or a College event held elsewhere under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, marijuana or any mood-altering substances prohibited by law;
   • making sexual, disparaging, or otherwise inappropriate remarks concerning another student, client, or staff member’s appearance, gender, ethnicity, race, religion or sexual orientation.
   • abusive behavior toward another student, client or staff member, including bullying or any other form of intimidation. Abusive behavior includes, but is not limited to, physical, emotional or verbal abuse; and
   • any other conduct determined by the College to be damaging or otherwise detrimental to another student or staff member of the College.
7. Students must not become involved in sexual relationships with other students, clients, and staff members for the duration of their program.
   • Note that this rule exists to maintain the safety, trust and integrity of group dynamics during experiential lessons and exercises. This rule is also fundamental to the development of strong ethical and professional boundaries.
   • Note that students involved in sexual relationships with other students who are NOT in their current course may face schedule adjustments or program completion delays if such a relationship impacts their ability to comply with this rule.
8. Each class may collectively create additional rules of conduct for their class.

The College will immediately dismiss a student without a warning letter or probationary period if the student commits any of the following:

1. Sexual assault or harassment against another student, client, or staff member.
2. Physical assault, or any other violent acts committed or threatened against another student, client or staff member.
3. Vandalism of College property.
4. Theft of property belonging to another student, to a staff member or to the College.

If a student, client or staff member has a concern about another person’s conduct within the College, the individual should refer that concern to the Senior Educational Administrator in accordance with the Dispute Resolution Policy.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION AND GRADE APPEAL POLICY

The College provides an opportunity for individuals – students, staff members, or clients who are being treated by a student as fulfillment toward a credit in the program – to resolve disputes of a serious nature and grades appeals in a fair and equitable manner.

The policy applies to all VSOHA College students who are currently enrolled or were enrolled 30 days prior to submitting their concern to the Senior Education Administrator. Individuals will not be subject to any form of retaliation as a result of filing a complaint.  “The complainant” is defined as the individual making the complaint and the “the respondent” is the individual that the complaint is against.

Procedure for Disputes:

1. When a concern arises, the complainant should address the concern with the individual most directly involved. If the complainant is not satisfied with the outcome at this level, the complainant should put their concern in writing and deliver it to the Senior Education Administrator.
2. The Senior Education Administrator will arrange to meet with the complainant to discuss their concern and desired resolution as soon as possible or within five College days of receiving the complainant’s written concern.
3. Following the meeting with the complainant, the Senior Education Administrator will conduct whatever enquiries and/or investigations necessary and appropriate to determine whether the complainant’s concerns are substantiated in whole or in part. Those inquiries may involve further discussion(s) with the complainant either individually or with appropriate College personnel.  Where safety or fear of retaliation by the respondent is a concern, the complainant may request to remain anonymous to the respondent. The Senior Education Administrator will advise the complainant if this request is granted and will ascertain whether the complainant wishes to continue.
4. The necessary enquiries and / or investigations shall be completed and a response provided in writing to all involved as soon as possible but no later than forty-five days following the receipt of the complainant’s written concerns. One of the following may happen:
5. If it is determined that the complainant’s concerns are not substantiated the College will provide a written explanation of decision & deny complaint; or
6. If it is determined that the complainant’s concerns are substantiated in whole or in part, the College will propose a resolution.

The response should specify that the complainant has five College days to appeal the decision.  A copy of the decision and all supporting materials shall be given to the complainant, a copy will be placed in the College’s Conduct File and respondent’s file, and the original will be placed in the complainant’s file.

1. If the complainant is not satisfied with the determination of the Senior Education Administrator the complainant must advise the Senior Education Administrator as soon as possible but within five College days of being informed of the determination. The Senior Education Administrator will immediately refer the matter to the President or Vice-President of the College.
2. The President or Vice-President of the College will review the matter and may meet with the complainant as soon as possible but within five College days of receipt of the complainant’s appeal.
3. The original decision will either be confirmed or varied by the President or Vice-President in writing within 5 Collegedays after meeting the complainant.  At this point the College’s Dispute Resolution Process will be considered complete.

The individual making the complaint may be represented by an agent or a lawyer.

The complainant, once the dispute resolution process is complete, may file a complaint with PTIB if they feel the College misled the complainant regarding the College or any aspect of its operations.

Procedure for Grade Appeal:

1. If a student is dissatisfied with a grade received and can provide evidence that a higher grade is warranted they should discuss with their instructor.  The instructor will reconsider the grade and, if warranted, assign a different grade.
2. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of their appeal to the instructor, they may submit a written appeal to the Senior Educational Administrator if the grade in question forms part of an assignment, exam or other course component equal to at least 15% of the course grade or if the outcome of the appeal will determine whether the student will pass the course.
3. Where applicable, the Senior Educational Administrator will obtain from the instructor a copy of the assignment/test in question and a copy of assignments/tests from other students representing the highest and lowest marks obtained, and will have another instructor conduct a review.
4. If the assessment achieves a higher grade on re-mark, the higher grade will be assigned to the student.  If the assessment achieves a lower grade on re-mark, the lower grade will be assigned to the student.
5. If the grade in question involves a behavioral test or course component other than an assignment or test, the Senior Educational Administrator may re-test the student or review the student’s evidence presented for appeal and dismiss the appeal or assess and assign a higher or lower grade.
6. Once the re-assessment is complete, the Senior Educational Administrator will review the process and, once their review is complete, the grade will be considered final and cannot be appealed.
7. The decisions on the grade appeal will be provided to the student within 30 College days of the College’s receipt of the written complaint.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & BELONGING STATEMENT

At Vancouver School of Healing Arts, we believe that diversity is a strength and we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of our community. We value the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds and are dedicated to addressing any individual or systemic biases that may exist. We aim to ensure that fairness, equity, accessibility, and inclusion are integrated into all aspects of our policies, programs, operations, and practices.

We are committed to providing all students with a fair and equitable opportunity to apply and be selected for our College, regardless of age, disability, family status, national origin, race/colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We strive to create a community where all students, regardless of their unique characteristics, skills, or experiences, feel valued and empowered to express themselves.

We recognize that diversity encompasses a wide range of characteristics, including but not limited to geography, culture, ethnicity, linguistic origin, socioeconomic class, ancestry, nationality, faith, gender, family or marital status. We are committed to celebrating and respecting these diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and identities within our community. We believe that fostering an inclusive and equitable environment promotes growth, understanding, and connection among all members of our community.

We are dedicated to ongoing education, dialogue, and collaboration to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at VSOHA. We strive to create a culture where everyone can live, learn, and work in an environment of inclusion and respect. We are committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive community that embraces diversity and encourages mutual respect for all individuals.

This commitment, recognition, and dedication is cemented through the practice of VSOHA’s eight core values. The College strives to have all of its students, staff, and faculty understand and adhere to these values, which are:

1. Unconditional positive regard

This means that we do not immediately judge others; that, instead, we hold the belief that other individuals are not trying to harm us and that if they do, that it may well be unintentional. It also means that we will give others the opportunity to clarify their actions if they have harmed us, before reaching a conclusion of their intent without input from them.

2. Compassion for all

This means that we will practice believing that everyone deserves kindness and consideration. This sometimes is difficult when we are learning about and practicing necessary boundaries; however, we believe that individuals can exhibit boundaries while still being kind.

3. Working to remove our biases

All of us have biases due to how we were raised and our personal circumstances. Being a helping professional requires us to work diligently to remove our biases so that we can help our clients let their story be their story, and so that we can truly see our clients for where they are at and help them become what they want to become, without manipulation or undue influence.

4. Eradicating prejudice

We realize that prejudice and racism is both individual and systemic. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusiveness for marginalized populations because we know they have been harmed and continue to be harmed. In order to help the oppressed and downtrodden, we must first see, hear, and feel their plight. This develops empathy. In order to help this, we are committed to providing more and more understanding of gender-based issues and race-based issues. While we have provided opportunities for our community to develop empathy and understanding to those that suffer from addictions, mental health issues, and trauma, we realize that our efforts to understand these issues in the context of race and gender needs to continuously improve. We are committed to learning more about and incorporating this context in all that we do from activities and curriculum to hiring and training. We welcome all outside and inside help we can obtain to help us with this and are actively developing and implementing policy and practices to assist this.

5. Non-violent communication

This is something that we must practice as helping professionals. If we are in disagreement, no matter how strenuous or pointed or justified the disagreement is, we need to always practice the 1st value above (unconditional positive regard) while we articulate the area(s) we disagree with. While we know that NVC is a system that was devised by a white person, with various diversity and inclusiveness consultations we have had with consultants who are experts in promoting diversity and protecting marginalized populations, we believe that NVC is still a good model to use and that we should still practice it, as it provides great possibilities for all parties within a conversation to be heard, respected, and included.

6. Dispute resolution

Having disputes is natural and being able to resolve disputes requires conflict resolution skills- skills that benefit every helping professional. To resolve a conflict or dispute, the individual who feels they need something resolved should first approach the individuals they have feelings against or about. They should seek to provide clear professional communication on what they need the other party to understand, and how they need the other party’s support. Both parties need to exercise compassion, unconditional positive regard, and really be willing to listen. Both parties should actively restate and seek to clarify their understanding and attempt to have their feelings also understood by kindly sharing their experiences and their perspectives; with this method, most disagreements will be resolved. Permissions and audience are two additional factors that must be considered when working through Dispute Resolution.

If the dispute cannot be resolved with these honest attempts, then we recommend that an instructor or administration team member is sought out to assist. If that does not work, we want the individuals involved in the disputes to reach out to student services or administrative management to receive additional assistance.

Whatever the situation, students, faculty, or staff should not think it is up to them to adjudicate and force a resolution. If they have done your best and cannot resolve something, outside assistance from student services or administrative management should be forthrightly sought.

7. Self-responsibility

While it is important to weigh and understand when one does not have control of a situation, there are almost always factors and roles that we can play in helping every situation. Instead of pointing a finger at others, can we self-assess and understand what we can do to improve, prod, guide and support? Can we do so with professionalism while leading by example? Self responsibility clears and shows the way for others to be able to move forward with grace, honour, and dignity.

8. Patience for the process, for you and for all

Be patient: with ourselves, the process, and others and realize that no one is perfect. We all make mistakes. However, we all want to be here, and because we all want to help others we are starting with an incredible common cause to hold space for others and to help others! This common purpose can overcome all. Understand that none of the values we prescribe to can be accomplished easily and that learning how to aptly practice any of them can require life-long commitment. Together though we can practice and showcase these values, and as we do, we will become a kinder, gentler, more understanding, supportive, and joyful community with powerful abilities able to positively impact our communities for good.

We recognize that diversity encompasses a wide range of characteristics, including but not limited to geography, culture, ethnicity, linguistic origin, socioeconomic class, ancestry, nationality, faith, gender, family or marital status. We are committed to celebrating and respecting these diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and identities within our community. We believe that fostering an inclusive and equitable environment promotes growth, understanding, and connection among all members of our community.

We are dedicated to ongoing education, dialogue, and collaboration to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion at VSOHA. We strive to create a culture where everyone can live, learn, and work in an environment of inclusion and respect. We are committed to creating a vibrant and inclusive community that embraces diversity and encourages mutual respect for all individuals.

ETHICS, INTEGRITY & TRANSPARENCY STATEMENT

At VSOHA, we maintain a strong commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics, integrity, and transparency. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, and we strive to instill these values in our students.

Our core values are grounded in the principles of respect, honesty, fairness, and integrity, which are reflected throughout our organization. Our primary goal is to provide our students with the best possible education and experience, while ensuring that our staff and faculty members adhere to the highest ethical standards.

We are dedicated to being transparent and open with our students and clients, providing them with accurate and timely information. Our operations are conducted in an ethical and professional manner, and we maintain a high level of integrity in all our interactions. By upholding these ethical standards, we strive to offer our students and clients the highest levels of service and support.

Ethics: We believe in conducting ourselves with the utmost ethical principles, adhering to a code of ethics that guides our interactions with students, colleagues, and the broader community. We are committed to maintaining confidentiality, respecting the rights and autonomy of our students, and avoiding any conflicts of interest that may compromise the integrity of our relationships.

Integrity: We value integrity as the foundation of our practice. We are committed to being honest, trustworthy, and reliable in our interactions with our students and colleagues. We strive to act in alignment with our values and beliefs, and to consistently demonstrate integrity in all our actions and decisions. We also hold ourselves accountable for our actions and take responsibility for any mistakes or errors, maintaining transparency in our communications.

Transparency: We believe in being transparent and open in our interactions and communications with students and colleagues. We communicate clearly and honestly, ensuring that our students have a comprehensive understanding of our approach to education and the expectations they can have of the College. We also strive to maintain open and honest communication among our faculty and staff, fostering a culture of transparency within our organization.

FAILED COURSE POLICY

A student may repeat a course up to but not exceeding three times. If the student fails the same course 3 times, the student will be placed on an academic suspension for 1 year. If the student wishes to take the course again, they must undergo the formal application procedure.

If a student fails a course due to lack of attendance (see Attendance Policy) or receives a grade lower than 50%, the student will be responsible for paying the full course fee, the tuition and any applicable fees to retake the course. The student can appeal the charges to retake the class but there must be exceptional mitigating circumstances with appropriate documentation.

FINAL EXAM & FINAL DEMONSTRATION REWRITE POLICY

If a student fails a Final Assessment, they may request a “rewrite” within one week of receiving their mark. The final grade will reflect the “rewrite” result. Only one “rewrite” is permitted.

GOOD STANDING POLICY

The Good Standing policy sets out the general requirements for a student to continue study at the College. For this purpose, “good standing” means good academic standing, good financial standing, and good citizenship standing.

Good academic standing. To be in good academic standing, a student must

• Meet all requirements of the Assignment Completion Policy;
• Meet all requirements of the Attendance Policy; and
• Maintain a minimum grade percentage of 65% in all mandatory courses*

A student who is not in good academic standing is subject to the Academic Probation Policy.

*As of October 20th, 2022, the Bodywork Therapy program requires a passing grade in all Core Courses (Human Sciences, Ethics, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Integrative Bodywork, Body-Mind Integration, Student Clinic).

Good financial standing. To be in good financial standing a student must meet their financial obligations according to their established payment plan. Students who do not meet their payment plan requirements are subject to being placed on probation, which could prohibit the student from:

1. Being registered in course work
2. Participating in student events, including graduation
3. Receiving transcripts and credentials, including proof of graduation
4. Participating in practicums, clinics, and other activities

If a student is on probation, the College may bar the student from any College functions including any or all the following:

1. one or more courses;
2. one or more course-related activities (e.g., clinic hours, practicum, etc.);
3. one or more social activities;
4. graduation ceremonies, and
5. graduation.

A student who otherwise completes all graduation requirements but who, at the graduation date owes less than $2000 to the College, may participate in graduation activities if the student has previously arranged with the College, in writing, a payment plan to pay the outstanding balance within three months of the student’s graduation date.  If, within three months after the student’s graduation date, the student does not pay the amount due to the College in accordance with the written payment plan, then from the date of that default, the balance will accrue an interest rate of prime + 2% per month.  If, six months after a student’s graduation date, the student still owes a balance to the College, the College reserves the right to assign the debt to a collection agency to collect the debt from the student. Part-time students on payment plans will be in default and subject to the interest rate and collection agency upon the final date of the original payment plan, not upon graduation.

Good citizenship standing. To be in good citizenship standing, a student must meet all the requirements of the Code of Conduct Policy. A student who is not in good citizenship standing is considered in breach of their student contract and subject to the relevant disciplinary actions.

*The Bodywork Therapy program requires a passing grade in all Core Courses (Human Sciences, Ethics, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Integrative Bodywork, Body-Mind Integration, Student Clinic). Students may take one fail or incomplete in one non-core class and still qualify for certification.

LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT POLICY

VSOHA provides all of its instruction in the English language. A student whose first language is not English must submit English proof that they will be able to sufficiently understand and communicate in English so that the student can fully participate in class and so that classmates can benefit from the student’s insight and participation.
Before enrollment, each applicant will need to show proficiency in English as evidenced by a written personal statement and the Admissions interview. If English is not one of the applicant’s native languages, the applicant will also be asked to provide one of the following supporting documentation:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): minimum score 78 (internet-based).
• Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test (CAEL): minimum score 70.
• International English Language Testing IELTS (academic version): minimum score 6.5 overall, and no one score less than 5.5.
• Alternative exams to the above may be accepted as Proof of English providing the exam is internationally recognized and has published official equivalencies to one of the above exams (TOEFL, CAEL, IELTS) and the student has achieved the equivalent scores consistent with what is required in the tests listed herein.
• Two years of high school where the language of instruction is English.
• Two completed full-time semesters at a post-secondary English-speaking institution.

Exemptions:
Students from the following countries are exempt from the English language proficiency requirements.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY

In special circumstances, students may apply for a leave of absence from their studies. A leave of absence may not exceed more than three months consecutively and a total of twelve months during their program. Students who leave the College for longer than twelve months will be considered withdrawn and must re-apply to gain admission back into the College.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT

The Vancouver School of Healing Arts (VSOHA) is committed to providing all students, staff, and faculty with a fair and equitable opportunity to join and participate in our community regardless of their personal characteristics. Personal characteristics are identified by British Columbia Human Right Code, which is the jurisdiction that the College is governed by, as: sex, race, religion, family status, disability, place of origin, and sexual orientation. VSOHA also includes colour/race, gender identity, and age as personal characteristics that must be given equal opportunity. Abusive behaviour toward another student, client or staff member, including bullying or any other form of intimidation due to their personal characteristics will not be tolerated. Abusive behaviour includes, but is not limited to, physical, emotional or verbal abuse. Where abusive behaviour is alleged to have occurred the College will follow its Code of Conduct Policy to determine the most appropriate action to follow. Where abusive behaviour occurs towards a student in relation to their studies, or to a staff or faculty by an individual from outside the community of the College (from someone other than a student, staff, or faculty member), the College will help with the situation as much as the College deems possible.

PARTICIPATION & PROFESSIONALISM POLICY

Every moment in class is an opportunity to be professional. This is demonstrated in how you show up in class for your peers, faculty and yourself, especially in the challenging moments. You can demonstrate professionalism by submitting assignments on time, arriving on time, communicating respectfully & compassionately, demonstrating the ability to work collaboratively as a team member, and exemplifying consistent effort & desire to improve/integrate feedback.

As such, 20 – 25%  of your grade in every course is allocated to Professionalism & Participation.

The 5 key components of Professionalism are:

1.     Personal Responsibility, Accountability & Timeliness

2.     Compassion, Respect & Communication

3.     Capacity for Improvement, Persistence & Integrity

4.     Cultural Awareness & Teamwork

5.     Preparedness & Engagement

Each of these five components are graded from 0 – 3. If a student is on track to receive less than 50% for Participation & Professionalism, they will be required to meet with the instructor and the Director of Education to discuss the growth opportunities so that the student can work to improve before final grades are submitted. If a student receives less than 50% on their final grade for Participation & Professionalism, they will fail the course and be required to retake the course.

PAYMENT POLICY

Students are able to make payments via electronic funds transfer, bank draft, money order, credit card, cheque or cash (with some restrictions). The College will make every effort to ensure it is not a conduit for money laundering. While students need to be provided with the ability to pay their student fees utilizing various methods, to ensure payments are coming from legitimate sources and to protect students from the dangers that inherently can come from carrying large amounts of cash, the College will not accept cash payments of over $2500. VSOHA also reserves the right to ask for any student to submit any or all payments utilizing a method of payment other than cash.

REFUND AND WITHDRAWAL POLICY

For the purposes of VSOHA’s refund policy, we use these definitions: “effective contract date” means in a student enrollment contract:

• The date the student, or the student’s representative signed the contract, or
• The date the institution signed the contract

“contract start date” means in a student enrollment contract the date on which the student’s program of instruction or other activity begins.
“contract end date” means in a student enrolment contract the date on which the student’s program of instruction or other activity ends.

REPEATING COURSES POLICY

Where students fail to successfully complete a course in a timely manner, whether due to academic performance, attendance, a breach of the Code of Conduct or Good Standing Policy, VSOHA may allow the student to repeat a course (or sub-unit of a course) if there is a reasonable expectation that the student will successfully complete it. Students may be required to sign a Student Accountability Agreement before being allowed to repeat a class.

Students who are allowed to repeat a course (or sub-unit of a course) may do so without reduction of the course (or sub-unit) tuition, which includes any additional books or materials required for the successful completion of the course.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY

1. The College (the “College”) is committed to the prevention of and appropriate response to sexual misconduct.
2. Sexual misconduct refers to a spectrum of non-consensual sexual contact and behaviour including the following:
   • sexual assault;
   • sexual exploitation;
   • sexual harassment;
   • stalking;
   • indecent exposure;
   • voyeurism;
   • the distribution of a sexually explicit photograph or video for non-educational purposes;
   • the attempt to commit an act of sexual misconduct; and
   • the threat to commit an act of sexual misconduct.
3. A “Complaint” of sexual misconduct is different than a “Report” of sexual misconduct. A person may choose to disclose or complain of sexual misconduct without making a formal report.  A Report is a formal notification of an incident of sexual misconduct to someone at the institution accompanied by a request for action.
4. A student making a Complaint will be provided with resolution options and, if appropriate, accommodation, and will not be required or pressured to make a Report.
5. The process for making a Complaint about sexual misconduct involving a student, faculty, or staff member is as follows:
   • The Complaint and any details surrounding the Complaint should be made communicated to the Director of Education by sending an email to educationdirector@vsoha.com or the President at president@vsoha.com.  The Complainant should direct the complaint to the Director of Education unless they do not receive a response within two business days, or when more urgent attention to the matter is required, or if the individual feels more comfortable addressing their complain to the President.
6. The process for responding to a Complaint of sexual misconduct involving a student is as follows:
   • The Director of Education or the President (the “Receiver”) will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within three business days.
   • The College will investigate the Complaint through a variety of ways including gathering details pertaining to the complaint from the complainant, students, faculty, or staff.
   • The Receiver will communicate within seven business days (or sooner if the matter is deemed more urgent by the Receiver) the results of their investigation and any potential rectification that will occur.
   • If the Complainant is not satisfied with the outcome, they can elevate the Complaint to a “Report”.
7. The process for making a Report of sexual misconduct involving a student, faculty, or staff is as follows:
   • The individual making a Report should submit an email with details of the event or actions they would like to report. Reports are generally more severe and urgent than Complaints. All individuals involved and/or effected should be detailed in the Report, and desired outcome(s) should also be included in the report.
   • The Report should be communicated to the Director of Education by sending an email to educationdirector@vsoha.com or the President at president@vsoha.com.  The Complainant should direct the complaint to the Director of Education unless they do not receive a response within two business days, or when more urgent attention to the matter is required, or if the individual feels more comfortable addressing their complain to the President.
8. The process for responding to a Report of sexual misconduct involving a student, staff, or faculty is as follows:
   • The Director of Education or the President (the “Receiver”) will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within three business days.
   • The College will investigate the Complaint through a variety of ways including gathering details pertaining to the complaint from the complainant, students, faculty, or staff.
   • The Receiver will communicate within seven business days (or sooner if the matter is deemed more urgent by the Receiver) the results of their investigation and any potential rectification that will occur, including details of how and when the rectification will occur.
   • If the individual that submitted the Report is not satisfied with the outcome, they can pursue a review of the investigation results and the determination of rectification utilizing the College’s Dispute Resolution Policy.
9. The College will uphold a “Non-Retaliation” policy where it will not permit any individual submitting a Complaint or a Report of Sexual Misconduct to be pursued in any manner of reprisal or be threatened for retaliation or reprisal by individuals that the Complaint or the Report is about. Individuals contravening the Non-Retaliation Policy will be subject to review and potential action up to and including dismissal from their education with the College (if a student) or from their employment and/or work (if a faculty or staff member).
10. Any processes undertaken pursuant to this policy will be endeavoured to be based on the principles of professional fairness. All parties involved will be treated with dignity and respect as far as possible by the College.
11. All information related to a Complaint or Report is confidential and will not be shared without the consent of the parties, subject to the following exceptions:
    • If an individual is at imminent risk of severe or life-threatening self-harm.
    • If an individual is at imminent risk of harming another.
    • There are reasonable grounds to believe that others in the institutional community may be at significant risk of harm based on the information provided.
    • Where reporting is required by law.
    • Where it is necessary to ensure procedural fairness in an investigation or other response to a Complaint or Report.

SNOW EMERGENCY CLOSING POLICY

VSOHA will provide notification by 5:00am PST if the campus will be closed for the day due to snow or any other emergency. Notification will be provided clearly on the front page of the vsoha.com website.If notification is not provided on the website, the campus will remain open for in-person classes. Program Managers/Directors may move any canceled in-person classes online at their sole discretion and will communicate these requirements directly to students via email. If the campus needs to close suddenly due to an emergency, the College will make every effort to communicate with students in person, via the vsoha.com website and via email.

SOBRIETY POLICY

Where a student has an identified substance misuse challenge, VSOHA requires one year of sobriety prior to entering a program. Documented support from external substance misuse counsellors as well as an external support system may be required.

If a student relapses and misuses substances while attending a program at VSOHA, they will be required to withdraw from their program until such time that they can provide evidence of their fitness to attend. Note that this policy applies in addition to any other conditions that may result from a breach of the general rule prohibiting drug and alcohol use while attending programs at VSOHA.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE POLICY

Where a student has a special physical, medical or academic need, whether the need is self-identified or identified by a health-care professional, the student may inform the College about that need prior to entering into a student contract with the College. This identification will allow both the student and the College to assess whether, and to what extent, the College can reasonably accommodate the student’s need within the experiential and academic programs offered by the College.

If a student self-identifies as having a special need, the student must:

• Meet admission requirements;
• Inform the College in a timely manner prior to entering into a student contract;
• Upon request by the College, provide to the College credible and sufficient documentation to verify the student’s legitimate need, including medical documentation where applicable;
• Provide details regarding the student’s abilities and the effects of any disability;
• Cooperate reasonably in the accommodation process; and
• Accept a reasonable proposal by the College to accommodate the student’s need.

Where a student self-identifies as having a special need, VSOHA will:

• Seek credible and sufficient documentation to verify the nature and extent of the student’s legitimate need, including medical documentation where applicable;
• Solicit reasonable details regarding the student’s abilities and the effects of any disability;
• Act in good faith to develop an accommodation plan for the student if the College can reasonably accommodate the student’s need;

In considering any proposed accommodation plan, the College must:

• Ensure that academic standards are maintained;
• Consider the resources reasonably available to the College;
• Be practical, while remaining open to innovative ideas;
• Consider the impact of the proposed accommodation, directly and indirectly, upon other students, including their learning outcomes, rights and morale; and
• Consider the impact of the proposed accommodation, directly and indirectly, upon the College’s staff; and
• Document the accommodation process.

THIRD PARTY FUNDING AGENCY POLICY

Students receiving funding from third party funding agencies may have to abide by additional attendance criteria as determined by their funding agency. Student attendance information is generally provided to third party funders through monthly progress reports.

TRANSFER OF CREDIT/PRIOR LEARNING ASSESSMENT POLICY

A currently enrolled student who meets the following requirements may be permitted to challenge a course at Vancouver School of Healing Arts on the grounds that the student has already received recent comparable training and can demonstrate a thorough knowledge and sufficient skill set required for the course. A student who successfully challenges a course at Vancouver School of Healing Arts shall receive credit for that course as if they had attended the course and successfully passed it.

Some programs have additional Transfer of Credit requirements. For Transfer of Credit requirements for the C-IAYT program, please click here: C-IAYT Yoga Therapy Transfer Policy.

ZOOM ETIQUETTE FOR ONLINE CLASSES POLICY

To ensure a successful zoom classroom meeting, and engage in a productive learning environment, please keep the following “do’s and don’ts” in mind:

Do’s

• Show up professionally; find a quiet space in your home and dress appropriately
• Wear headphones if you are in a shared space. This is important to mitigate background noise and to ensure confidentiality in the classroom
• Ensure you have a strong internet connection. Plug directly into the modem with an ethernet cable if possible to ensure the strongest connection
• Use a desktop or laptop for class so that the screen is large enough to be able to see your entire class
• Make sure your full name shows up appropriately
• Be aware of your background, lighting, and noise.
• Mute your microphone when you’re not speaking
• Raise your virtual hand using the zoom function. This helps the instructor keep track of who raised their hand first.
• Turn off/silence cell phone
• Be on time for class. Communicate with your instructor (via email) if you will be late or if you need to leave early
• Maintain eye contact with the speaker on the screen.
• Keep everything you hear related to personal stories and information private and confidential
• Be kind and compassionate: If you wouldn’t say something out loud in the physical presence of your instructor and peers, then it’s not appropriate to say in a Zoom session or type into a chat window. Courtesy, compassion, and generosity go a long way in group settings.

Don’ts

• Share the zoom access information for your class with others
• Do not log in from a public space where the screen would be visible to members of the public
• Take screenshots, cell phone pictures, or otherwise record the meeting, your classmates, or your instructor without express permission to do so.
• Walk or drive during the class
• Use the private chat or text messaging for side conversations with classmates during class
• Sit in front of a window or bright light, this will make your face too dark to see.
• Have conversations with household members off camera.
• Allow household members to observe or listen to class; try to limit the amount that people walk around behind you during the class
• Engage in texting, social media, work from other classes, or other distractions while in class.
• Do not log in using a cell phone.