Student Handbook - LA & NY

AMDA Los Angeles’ primary location is the historic Tower Building at 6305 Yucca Street in the heart of Hollywood. The Tower houses classrooms, rehearsal and performance spaces, the AMDA Café, the Performing Arts Library, and administrative offices.

Additional classrooms, vocal rooms, rehearsal space, and a student lounge are across the street in the 1777 Vine Street Building.

AMDA Los Angeles student housing (the Bungalows, the Vine Street Residence Hall, the Allview Residence Hall, Yucca Street Apartments, the Franklin

Building and the Gilbert Residence Hall) are all within brief walking distance.

The diverse range of cultural resources and activities in Los Angeles enhances and enriches our students’ experience. In addition to famed Hollywood landmarks and studios, the campus is adjacent to popular recreation areas including Griffith Park, which offers horseback riding, a golf course, the Greek Theatre, the Griffith Observatory and more than 50 miles of hiking trails. AMDA is just a short drive from the beaches, as well as mountains and sprawling national forests.

The majority of AMDA’s academic facilities are located on the Upper West Side in Manhattan. The primary campus location is located at 211 West 61st Street. Our 61st Street location includes a majority of AMDA’s dance and multi-use classrooms, rehearsal studios, performance spaces, Student Store,  AMDACafe, and AMDA Wellness offices.

AMDA’s other academic facilities include: the Ansonia Building at West 73rd Street and 2109 Broadway at 73rd Street and our 250 West 54th Street location. The Ansonia houses AMDA performance and rehearsal spaces. The 250 West 54th Street location houses AMDA’s film studios, editing lab, sound stage, recording studio, and screening room. The AMDA Library, auxiliary multi-use classroom and rehearsal studios, are also located at the 250 W 54th Street location. 

AMDA’s primary staff and administrative offices are located at 421 West 54th Street. Many of AMDA’s administrative staff are also available for virtual appointments to ensure maximum flexibility for student schedules. 

Greenwich House is AMDA’s primary residential building, located in Greenwich Village at West 13th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues. AMDA may also offer student housing at other locations.

• AMDA ID cards are the property of AMDA. AMDA ID cards may be revoked at any time, and must be surrendered upon demand if requested by any AMDA official.

• No person shall possess more than one AMDA ID card. The use of the AMDA ID card by anyone other than the person to whom it was issued or the voluntary transference of the AMDA ID card is prohibited. 

• Defacing or altering an AMDA ID card is prohibited. This includes punching holes in the card to keep it on a lanyard or keychain.

• Once a replacement ID is made, access permissions are transferred to the new card, the old ID will be deactivated in all campus systems. Printing capabilities on the new ID must be manually updated by the student with the Library staff found on the 3rd Floor of the Yucca Tower building. 

• Promptly report lost or stolen ID cards by contacting the Student Affairs team.

• ID cards are non transferable. AMDA ID cards are void upon termination or interruption of enrollment.

Students who have lost their ID will need to complete an ID Replacement Form and pay a fee of $25. Students will be provided a temporary student ID that will need to be returned when they have been contacted to pick up a new ID card by a staff member. A fee of $5.00 will be assessed to replace a lost or stolen temporary ID card that has been provided to you by staff during this process.

Los Angeles:

Replacement AMDA ID cards must be obtained from the Student Affairs department on the eighth floor of the Yucca Tower Building.

New York:

Lost or stolen student ID cards must be reported promptly to the AMDA Student Store manager at the 61st Street academic building.

Buses & Subways:

The Metro subway system has a station at Hollywood and Vine, one block from campus. The station is on the Metro Red Line. Though the Los Angeles subway system is small, it features stops throughout the city (close to major hubs and attractions), and easily connects with other systems via Union Station downtown.

Riding the Metro trains requires a physical TAP card that can be purchased at available at kiosks in all stations or a digital TAP card which can be added to your phone via the Apple App Store or Google Play. Those who use the system frequently can purchase 30-day TAP cards at a discounted rate.

The city’s bus system is extensive and has routes traversing the city and surrounding region. There are bus stops on most corners around the AMDA campus and residences.

For Metro bus and subway rates, maps and other information, please visit metro.net.

There is also a FlyAway bus that runs from Union Station to Los Angeles International Airport for those who would like an inexpensive option to travel between these areas. A one-way fare is $9.75, and there’s no need to schedule the trip in advance. For more information, visit flylax.com/flyaway.

Taxis:

Unlike many cities, you won’t be able to hail a cab in Los Angeles. There are taxi stops at the airports and some Metro stations Otherwise, you will have to call to arrange for service.

Other:

A number of other options are available, including ZipCar (zipcar.com/la), Uber (uber.com), and Lyft (lyft.com). (These vendors are not specifically endorsed by AMDA and are listed only as examples of other options.) The city is also increasingly bicycle friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and “sharrows” on many streets around campus.

Buses & Subways

The NYC subway operates 24 hours a day and has stops within a few blocks of most destinations you’ll want to access. Subway lines most convenient to AMDA’s 61st Street campus are the 1, A, B, C, and D at 59th Street — Columbus Circle, the 1 at Lincoln Center, and the 1, 2, 3 at 72nd Street. Single-ride one-way subway and bus fares are subject to change. If you ride frequently, unlimited ride MetroCards may be most economical. At this time, discounted fares are not offered by the MTA.  

Individuals are not permitted to enter the New York City subway system or buses without payment of the fare. This includes instances when your MetroCard is not functioning properly. Fare evasion is taken seriously and will be addressed if administration is made aware.

• When possible, travel with a friend or in a group.

• Remain alert and aware of your environment. Keep volume low if using headphones.

• Walk briskly, look alert and appear to know where you are going — even if you don’t!

• Avoid shortcuts that are not well-traveled or well-lit, including alleys, parks, and parking lots. Choose a route that is crowded and has businesses open.

• Carry a bag that fits close to your body or that you can hold securely in front.

• Keep your wallet and valuables in a front pocket.

• Have your keys ready before you enter your apartment or room so you won’t have to stop to look for them.

• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or believe you’re being followed, step into a store or restaurant.

• Don’t resist a mugger. Your wallet is less valuable than you are.

• Save local emergency numbers and other important campus numbers in your phone or have readily available to you on a piece of paper. 

• Always keep doors locked, even in residence halls.

• Always use caution and check the identity of a visitor before opening the door.

• As always, look alert and be aware of your surroundings.

• Know the schedule to minimize wait times.

• Don’t wear valuable jewelry.

• At night, travel with a friend or choose alternative transportation.

The Admissions Department is responsible for new student recruitment and outreach, administering auditions and processing applications. The Admissions team is also the primary contact and resource for providing information and guidance to students interested in continuing on to enroll in a Bachelor of Fine Arts program at the AMDA Los Angeles campus.

The Office of Academic Affairs is responsible for the content of AMDA’s curricula and how that curricula is delivered in all of our program offerings at both the New York and Los Angeles campuses. The Office of Academic Affairs is committed to delivering exceptional teaching of performance skills accompanied with focused studies in liberal arts. Faculty are supported with resources needed for effective instruction and professional growth.

The Office of Academic Affairs is committed to progressive assessment that fosters continuous improvement, upholds academic standards and integrity, and continuously evolves curricula and teaching practices to be more inclusive and diverse. The curriculum is aligned with innovative and relevant practices in the performing arts to ensure that students are well-prepared for professional competitive demands and entrepreneurial opportunities. Students are encouraged to develop their own distinct artistic identity, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the performing arts world and beyond.

Academic Advising

AMDA's Academic Advising Office aims to empower students to achieve their academic and personal goals within our rigorous, industry-focused programs. Through a comprehensive framework and individualized mentoring, our dedicated advisors facilitate a customized educational experience that promotes student retention, persistence, and degree completion. The Academic Advising team guides emerging artists to thrive as students, combining academic success with artistic excellence.

Through a collaborative team effort, the Academic Advising team ensures streamlined communication and effective support to all students across both coasts. The office guides students to campus resources and support systems that enhance their overall AMDA experience, and provides comprehensive degree audits and pathway planning technology, enabling students to make informed decisions about their education.

Office of the Registrar

The Registrar's Office is the administrative center for academic records at AMDA. Our office comprises student registration and enrollment, maintains academic records, and collaborates with both the scheduling and academic advisement departments. Furthermore, the department oversees the graduation process, issues transcripts and diplomas, and ensures adherence to academic policies and regulations. Our office frequently extends support to students, serving as an essential resource throughout their academic endeavors.

Scheduling Services

Scheduling Services plays a key role in crafting academic schedules for students. If students have questions about their individual schedule or need assistance with class enrollment, the Registrar's Office is ready to assist. Students are able to book rehearsal room spaces directly through AMDA’s online campus system; training on this process is provided to all new students. 

Scheduling Services is also responsible for compiling important announcements and information for students, which students will find in the weekly email from the Academic Services Department.

The mission of AMDA’s Disability Resource Center is to ensure that all students are afforded an equal opportunity to fully participate in and benefit from AMDA’s unsurpassed performing arts education and diverse community of creative artists. We believe that disability is an integral part of the diversity of experience that fuels creative excellence. Therefore, it is our goal to provide accommodations that remove access barriers and allow every student to reach their fullest potential. For more information, please view the AMDA Catalog.

AMDA is committed to providing an academic environment free from sex discrimination, where all members of the school community are treated with respect and dignity. Sex discrimination includes both sexual- and gender-based harassment and violence. All members of the AMDA community, including students, employees, and third parties, are protected under this policy. Click here to view Title IX policies, resources, and information or to file an incident report.

The Facilities Department is dedicated to supporting the core educational mission of AMDA by maintaining a safe and functional campus environment. The Facilities Department is responsible for ensuring long-term stewardship of the campus physical environment and enhancing the quality and functionality of AMDA’s beautiful, historic campus.

The Office of Financial Aid administers aid from federal, institutional and private funding sources. Contact the Office of Financial Aid for additional information regarding eligibility requirements and application details for all funding programs. Financial aid information can be accessed through the portal.

AMDA offers physical and mental health services to help promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of each student so they can achieve academic success. Our goal is to cultivate a campus environment that nurtures the health and well-being of all our students while advancing our academic and performance mission.

The Production Department oversees the many aspects of the campus theaters, performances and major campus events. From the development of the performance schedules to finalizing the needs of each show, the Production team functions as a co-curricularly in order to better prepare our students for the professional world. Production management coordinates daily with AMDA’s directors, technicians, designers, costumers, stage managers, house managers, educators and a variety of support staff that ensure the success of every performance. We follow Actors' Equity Association (AEA) guidelines to give students an authentic experience during their graduation performances.

The Security Department provides security and safety to all students, faculty, staff and visitors in and around AMDA Buildings. The Security Department is responsible for protecting property in and around AMDA’s buildings and recording campus crime statistics. All AMDA facilities are under camera surveillance 24 hours a day, and are equipped with a card access entry system. All students, alumni, faculty and staff are required to “swipe” their AMDA ID card at access points to gain entry. Each AMDA building has a licensed Security Guard on site. 

AMDA’s residential buildings have licensed Security Guards and a Receptionist 24/7. The Security Department is responsible for: 

• Safety and security of all residents and staff. 

• Responding to any campus emergency and making timely notifications to the campus community, as needed.

• Responding to non-emergencies such as lockouts or any building concerns.

• Monitoring hallways within residential buildings and addressing housing violations, excessive noise concerns, facility issues, etc. 

• Submitting a daily report of safety and security concerns to senior staff.

• Providing escorts to students who articulate safety concerns, or require non-emergency transportation to a medical facility. 

The Office of Student Accounts oversees all billing and payments for AMDA tuition, housing and other fees. The office is available for questions regarding tuition, housing charges, payment agreements or any concerns relating to financial matters. Student account information can be accessed through the portal.

The Office of Student Affairs is committed to creating an integrated learning experience that supports students in reaching their educational, professional, and personal goals. We help create a campus community where students are prepared to contribute to a dynamic and changing world.

To do this we:

• Challenge students to create a diverse community of mutual respect through social interaction and cultural exploration. 

• Provide leadership and support for AMDA-wide student affairs programs.

• Support students in their intellectual, cultural, physical, emotional, and social development.

• Motivate students to contribute as leaders and professionals through student leadership and experiential learning opportunities.

• Create local (and world-wide) academic, professional and personal connections. 

• Provide opportunities for students to find community through cultural- and identity-based student organizations.  Whether you're exploring your heritage, advocating for social change, or simply seeking a supportive space to express yourself, our student organizations provide platforms for cultural exchange, dialogue, and collaboration, enriching your AMDA experience with a sense of belonging and camaraderie. 

Office of Student Engagement

The Office of Student Engagement serves as the vibrant hub for fostering a dynamic and inclusive campus culture at AMDA. With a multifaceted approach, our office takes pride in overseeing a plethora of student organizations, social impact initiatives, and general engagement opportunities. We provide avenues for students to explore their passions, connect with peers, and make a difference in their community.

At the heart of our mission lies the encouragement for students to fully immerse themselves in the AMDA community. We believe that active participation not only enhances personal growth but also contributes significantly to a fulfilling academic journey. Whether it's through organizing events, volunteering, or joining student organizations, the Office of Student Engagement is dedicated to empowering students to become integral members of the AMDA family. Join us in shaping memorable experiences and building lifelong connections.

Office of Student Success

AMDA's Student Success Advisor roles are to offer guidance and academic support throughout a student's AMDA journey. Our office works closely with other campus departments and services to ensure that students have access to a wide range of support systems, fostering a well-rounded experience. 

The Office of Student Success also oversees the Peer Mentoring Program, which offers valuable  opportunities for students to cultivate and strengthen their leadership abilities. Through this program, we pair first and second semester students with experienced third and fourth semester students, aiming to support incoming students within their transition into the AMDA community. Our mentors bridge the gap between professional guidance and personal experience.

The mission of student employment is to expand the educational experience and provide on-campus opportunities for part-time student employment. Professional experiences can enhance a student’s academic experience and provide the opportunity to serve and learn in a values-based, mission-oriented setting. 

For more information on AMDA’s Student Employment Opportunities, click HERE.

In addition to AMDA’s wellness resources on campus, it is required that students have adequate health insurance to cover medical care and emergencies while enrolled. Students insured on parents’ policies should be sure to obtain policy numbers and coverage details. AMDA’s Center for Health & Performance staff may refer students to off-campus resources for medical care or treatment. AMDA is not responsible for health care expenses incurred during a student’s enrollment. 

If AMDA faculty or staff become concerned that a student has a problem with vocal nodes, the student may be required to have an evaluation by an appropriate professional at their own expense and submit the results to AMDA. The therapist and voice teacher will determine the best course of action for the student. Depending on the seriousness of the situation, the student may be required to leave school until the condition is stabilized or prescribed therapy is successfully completed. 

Students who experience a musculoskeletal injury (related to the muscles and bones) are welcome to make an appointment with the Athletic Performance team for injury consultation. Students also have the option to see a physician at their own expense and submit their results to AMDA. Depending on the severity of the injury, the student may be required to leave school or modify movement until the condition has been resolved. All modifications must be addressed by the AMDA Health and Performance team.

Athletic Performance staff provide injury consultation, education, and performance enhancement services.

Athletic Performance services include: 

• Injury consultation

• Wellness screening and individualized exercise programs

• Education regarding injury prevention and self-care strategies

• Referral and timely access to physician evaluation and care

• General guidance on health and nutrition

Los Angeles Campus:

The Athletic Performance Studio is located on the fourth floor of the Vine Building in V401. To make an appointment, email LAhealth@amda.edu.

AMDA offers mental health counseling services with licensed mental health counselors to help meet the emotional and psychological needs of our students. Our goal is to cultivate a campus environment that nurtures the health and well-being of all our students while advancing our academic and performance mission.

Mental Health Counseling services include:

• Individual counseling sessions (single-session or short-term). 

• Options for in-person or virtual counseling (virtual sessions are facilitated through a HIPAA-compliant platform).

• Crisis Response/Emergencies. 

• Workshops/Trainings. 

• Referrals to off-campus providers.  

Los Angeles Campus:

Counseling offices are located on the fourth floor of the  Vine Building. Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, email LACounseling@amda.edu.

New York Campus:

Counseling offices are located in the 61st Street academic building. Counseling services are free and confidential. To schedule a meeting with a mental health counselor, please email CounselorNY@amda.edu.

AMDA’s Vocal Health Resource Center provides students with information and guidelines on the care and use of the professional performance voice. The Vocal Health office is located on the fourth floor of the  Vine Building. For appointments, email VocalHealth@amda.edu. 

Vocal Health Services Include: 

• Voice assessments for vocal rest 

• Vocal health and hygiene best practices 

• Vocal wellness resources and information 

• Assistance during illness to keep students safely singing/speaking 

• Exercises to restore, strengthen and maintain a healthy voice 

• Referrals to laryngologist/physician voice specialists

Hours of Operation

(subject to change)

• Monday through Friday: 10:00am – 8:00pm

• Saturday: Closed

• Sunday: 2:00pm–6:00pm

Contact the Library at 323.603.5924 or lalibrary@amda.edu with any questions.

On-Site Services

The LA Library features 8 computer stations (4 PCs and 4 Macs), all of which have internet access, common Office software, and a disc drive for watching films in the library. There are 3 printers/copiers available, 2 black & white and 1 color. Printing prices are nominal, and all charges are done via an electronic debit system attached to each student’s ID card.

Headphones are required for listening at the computer stations; headphones may be borrowed from the library service desk during open hours.

Hours of Operation

On-Site Services

The NY Library offers a quiet reading room, computers, Wi-Fi, and four network printers/copiers. Performing arts materials are easily accessible and are housed either in the main library or across the hall in the library archive. Instructional materials are available to support faculty curriculum development and research for all disciplines. Personal library tours and orientation sessions are available upon request. 

As a condition of use of AMDA computing facilities and services, students agree to:

• Abide by the AMDA Code of Conduct when using AMDA resources and networks, and in all electronic communications, including email and social networks.

• Respect the privacy and rights of others.

• Assume responsibility for use of all accounts and access provided by AMDA.

• Respect legal protections for intellectual property, copyright, and licensing of media, applications, files, and data.

AMDA students are prohibited from engaging in any of the following activities and behaviors:

• Attempting to damage or to degrade the performance of AMDA computers or networks.

• Attempting to circumvent security systems.

• Unauthorized access to, downloading, or sharing of protected media, systems and services.

• Disclosure of passwords or enabling access to AMDA facilities by unauthorized individuals (including family or friends).

• Possession, collection or distribution of others’ passwords, PINs, private digital certificates, or other secure identification information.

• Use of AMDA computers and networks for business-related purposes.

• Harassment, bullying, obscenity in communications and messaging, or other violations of the AMDA Code of Conduct.

• Infringement on the privacy of others (see below), attempting to circumvent systems designed to protect privacy, and use of monitoring or other systems to violate privacy of others.

• Misrepresenting identity in email and other communications.

• Indiscriminate mass or group emails or other communications (including forwarding of chain emails and unauthorized mass emails) to large numbers of recipients who have not indicated a willingness to receive such information.

Information stored on a computer system or sent electronically over a network is the property of the individual who created it. Any information the owner would reasonably regard as private must be treated as such by other users. This includes (but is not limited to): contents of email, messaging and other communications; data on storage media and cloud services; any unsecured personal information and files. AMDA system administrators may inspect personal files and data, if necessary, solely for the limited purpose of preventing damage to the system or ensuring compliance with institutional rules.

Some private information may be visible to others on shared and networked computer systems. This may include account and directory information (email addresses, user names), records of file names and usage, records of online activity, and data stored in public areas. This information is still considered private and may not be inspected or utilized in ways that may reasonably be considered intrusive.

In order to respect and ensure privacy, users are prohibited from attempting to gain access to, utilize, manipulate, or disseminate:

• others’ personal account information

• others’ personal files, electronic communications (including email), and other data

• unsecured information or data which may reasonably be considered private

Students are expected to exercise sound judgment and respect others in the use of social media. Posts identifying or with images of other students should only be shared with their consent.

Because content posted online may remain publicly visible, even if deleted, students should only post information they are comfortable with anyone (other students, potential employers, parents, et. al.) seeing.

Students are not permitted to extend social networking invitations (such as friend requests) to faculty or staff while enrolled at AMDA.

The Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, and its implementing federal regulations affords to persons who are currently, or were formerly, in attendance at AMDA as registered students a right of access to their “educational records” that contain information directly related to such persons. Persons who unsuccessfully applied for admission to AMDA are not covered by the Act. 

The Act also restricts the persons to whom AMDA may disclose a student’s education records without the student’s written permission.

“Educational records” of a student include records, files, documents, and other materials regularly maintained by AMDA that contain information directly related to a student after matriculation and that are maintained in connection with the student’s attendance at AMDA. “Educational records” are records that are directly related to a student and that are maintained by an educational agency or institution or a party acting for or on behalf of the agency or institution. These records include but are not limited to grades, transcripts, class lists, student course schedules, health records (at the K-12 level), student financial information (at the postsecondary level), and student discipline files. The information may be recorded in any way, including, but not limited to, handwriting, print, computer media, videotape, audiotape, film, microfilm, microfiche, and e-mail.

Students may obtain access to their education records by contacting the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office. AMDA is required to grant the request within 45 days. The Academic Services & Registrar’s Office will forward copies of the student’s request to the appropriate office(s) holding the requested files. These offices will contact the student and invite them to inspect the records. 

If a student wishes to inspect an education record that also contains information regarding another student, such inspection is permissible only if (a) the information about the other student is inseparable from information about the requesting student, (b) any personally identifiable information about the other student is redacted prior to inspection by the requesting student, (c) the other student provides a prior, written consent, or (d) disclosure is otherwise permitted or required by law. 

A student will ordinarily not be provided with copies of any part of their record other than their transcript, unless the inability to obtain copies would effectively prevent them from exercising their right to inspect and review his education records. In cases where copies will be provided, the department or office of AMDA maintaining the record in question may impose a charge for making such copies at such uniform rates as it shall determine. Each department or office should establish and make readily available a schedule of such charges. In general, the charges imposed will not exceed $.10 per page. An exception is the case of unofficial transcripts, which are free. Students will not be permitted to remove the original record(s) from the record review office. At the conclusion of the review the record(s) is returned to the office(s) that maintains it. 

If a student is physically unable to come to the appropriate record review office, and if this inability would effectively deny the student access to their records, the student may obtain a record request form by calling or writing to the appropriate record review office. The student should then return the completed request form by mail to the record review office. The office will make special arrangements for the review. 

Generally, educational records of a student will be maintained by the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office. In addition, AMDA’s Center for Health and Performance maintains records relating to students who have utilized their services.

In general, a student may have access to confidential letters and statements of recommendation that are part of the student’s education records. This right, however, does not apply to such letters and statements placed in the student’s education records prior to January 1, 1975, if such letters and statements are not used for purposes other than those for which they were specifically intended. 

A student may, by signing a written waiver, relinquish their right to inspect confidential recommendations placed in the student’s education records on or after January 1, 1975, respecting (1) admission to any educational institution; (2) an application for employment; or (3) the receipt of an honor or honorary recognition. In no case will any student be required by AMDA to waive their rights to access confidential recommendations.

If a student believes that any of their education records contain information that is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of their rights of privacy, they may ask AMDA to correct or delete such information. The student may also ask that additional explanatory material be inserted in the record. 

Requests for amendment of a record or the addition of explanatory material should be submitted, in writing, within a reasonable amount of time after the conclusion of the record review. The reasons for the request should be set forth and should clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. There is no obligation on the part of AMDA to grant such a request.

If AMDA declines to amend records as requested by the student, it will inform the student, and the student may request a hearing to appeal the decision. The right to challenge the contents of an educational record may not be used to question substantive educational judgments that have been correctly recorded. For example, a hearing may not be requested to contest the assignment of a grade. Grades given in the course of study include written evaluations that reflect institutional judgment of the quality of a student’s academic performance. 

Hearing requests must be made in writing to the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office, within thirty (30) days of being informed of the decision to decline the request for amendment. Within a reasonable period of time after receiving such a request, the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office will inform the student of the date, place and time of the hearing. 

The hearing will take place before a committee composed of faculty and staff members who do not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing. The student may present evidence relevant to the issues raised and may be assisted or represented at the hearing by one or more persons of the student’s choice, at the student’s sole expense. The Committee must issue a written decision that contains a summary of the evidence and a statement of the basis for the decision. 

The decision of the Committee is final and must be based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing. If the decision is in the student’s favor, the education records will be amended in accordance with the Committee’s decision. If the decision is unfavorable to the student, the student may prepare a statement commenting on the contested information in the education record or stating why the student disagrees with the decision not to amend the record, or both. AMDA must maintain any such statement along with the contested part of the record for as long as AMDA maintains that record and AMDA must disclose the statement whenever it discloses the portion of the record to which the statement relates.

AMDA will not generally permit access to, or release of, educational records or personally identifiable information contained therein to any party without the written consent of the student. AMDA may, however, as provided in the Act, release such data to certain persons including but not limited to: 

• Officials of AMDA who have a legitimate educational interest (including persons with whom AMDA has contracted) in obtaining access to the records. Such access will be granted if the official needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill their professional responsibility. 

• Persons who require access in connection with the student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid. 

• Parents of a student provided the student is a “dependent” of the parents for federal income tax purposes. In general, AMDA does not make education records available to a student’s parents. However, where AMDA believes that it is in a dependent student’s interest, information from the student’s educational records may be released to the parents of such a dependent student. In order for this exception to apply, parents and guardians must provide a copy of their previous year’s federal tax return demonstrating the student’s dependent status. 

AMDA may release such information in compliance with a judicial order or pursuant to any lawfully issued subpoena. As a general policy, before any information is released AMDA will first notify the student at the student’s most recent address as shown in the records maintained by the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office. However, in compliance with the Act, some judicial orders and subpoenas issued for law enforcement purposes specify that AMDA cannot disclose to any person the existence or contents of the order or subpoena or the information furnished in compliance with it. 

In connection with an emergency, AMDA may release information from educational records to appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or other persons. AMDA is required to maintain in the student’s file a record of the situation that prompted such disclosure and a list of individuals to whom disclosure was made.

Upon written consent or request by a student, AMDA will release information from the student’s educational records to third parties. The student should make a request for such release to the department or office having custody of the record involved. AMDA may impose a charge for copying a student’s records in connection with such release.

Subject to the limitations set out in §99.31 of the Act, where parents or guardians claim their students as dependents for tax purposes, AMDA may notify such parents or guardians when there is a change in the student’s status (e.g. being placed on or removed from academic probation) or if there is a change in enrollment as a consequence of a student being barred from AMDA for failure to meet the terms of academic probation or for disciplinary reasons. In order to be notified of the changes of status and enrollment listed above, parents and guardians must make a request to the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office along with a copy of their previous year’s federal tax return demonstrating the student’s dependent status. 

Alternatively, any student — whether considered a dependent or not — who wishes that their parents, guardians or other family members be notified of status changes or grades may complete and return to the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office a signed release form.

It shall be a condition of the release by AMDA of any personal information of a student to a third party that the party to which the information is released will not permit any other party to have access to such information without the written consent of the student. An institution to which such information is released may permit its officers, employees, and agents to use such information but only for the purposes for which the disclosure was made. These restrictions do not apply to certain subpoenas and court orders.

AMDA may, at its discretion, release “directory information” with respect to a student for any purpose without the student’s consent. AMDA is required to give notice of the categories of information that it will treat as “directory information.” Accordingly, AMDA hereby gives public notice that it has designated the following categories of information as directory information with respect to each student: name, local and permanent address, electronic mail address, telephone listing; age; photograph; major field of study; participation in officially recognized activities and performances; enrollment status; dates of attendance at AMDA; degrees, honors and awards received, and their dates; and most recent educational institution attended.

A student in attendance at AMDA who does not want to have directory information relating to themselves released should complete an Authorization to Withhold Directory Information form and return it to the Academic Services & Registrar’s Office. 

A student may not use the withholding of directory information to prevent AMDA from disclosing or requiring the student to disclose their name, identifier, or institutional email address in a class in which the student is enrolled. 

If a student makes a decision to withhold directory information, any requests during that academic year for such information from non-AMDA persons or organizations will be refused (subject to the exceptions stated in §99.31 of the Act above or unless the student has subsequently removed the hold by notifying AMDA in writing). If a student does not specifically request the withholding of directory information by filing the Authorization to Withhold Directory Information form, as indicated above, AMDA assumes that they approve of the disclosure of such information. AMDA disclaims any and all liability for inadvertent disclosure of directory information designated to be withheld.

Authorized representatives of government agencies may occasionally ask to see a student’s education records. Such requests are usually made when a student or former student has applied for a government job. Generally, AMDA will handle such requests in the same manner as other requests for access to student records by third parties, provided that the government agent shows official identification and provides a signed release from the student, a copy of which will be retained by AMDA. 

If a government agent has a subpoena, they should be referred to the General Counsel. Under FERPA regulations, AMDA is required to make a reasonable attempt to notify the student prior to complying with the subpoena unless, in the case of a subpoena issued for law enforcement purposes, the subpoena orders that such notification not be made.

You have the right to ask AMDA:

• about instructional programs, facilities, and faculty

• about the cost of attendance and the refund policy 

• what financial assistance is available 

• about procedures and deadlines for submitting applications and fees 

• how it selects financial aid recipients 

• how financial need is determined 

• how much of your financial need has been met 

• to explain each type of assistance in your financial aid package 

• the name of its accrediting agency 

• how and when funds will be received 

• about student loan repayment provisions 

• to reconsider an aid package, if a mistake has been made or financial circumstances change 

• how satisfactory progress is determined and measured 

• what it means if your Student Aid Report (SAR) is selected for verification and what documents you will be asked to submit in that process

It is your responsibility to: 

• review and consider all information about AMDA before enrollment 

• accurately complete all requested information in a timely manner 

• understand and comply with all AMDA policies and deadlines 

• provide all documentation, corrections, and new information required 

• notify AMDA of any changes to your application 

• read and understand all the forms that you are asked to sign 

• repay any student loans which you have borrowed 

• fulfill your financial obligations to AMDA in a timely and complete fashion 

• attend entrance and exit interviews with the Education Department 

• notify AMDA of any change of address, name, or attendance status 

• understand AMDA’s refund policy

FERPA does not impose an obligation on college officials to create or maintain particular education records, except that AMDA cannot discard an education record for which a request for inspection is pending. 

However, AMDA is required to maintain a record, kept with the education records of each student, indicating all individuals, agencies or organizations that have requested or obtained access to a student’s education records and indicating specifically the legitimate interest that each has in obtaining the information. This requirement does not extend to requests made by college officials with legitimate educational interests and to certain requests made in the context of ongoing terrorist investigations and prosecutions.

You may view the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act on the U.S. Department of Education Web site at https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/ferpa. 

AMDA will inform students of the guidelines in this policy and of their rights under FERPA and the Department of Education’s FERPA regulations by placing a notice about them in the AMDA Student Handbook each year. Each office at AMDA that maintains educational records should keep with each student’s file a permanent record of all parties who have requested access to the student’s records, other than custodians of such files; college officials normally dealing with such files in performance of their duties; college officials who have been determined to have a legitimate educational interest in obtaining access to the records; parents of a dependent student; parties who have received directory information; parties who have received records or information pursuant to the student’s written consent; and the recipient of records or information pursuant to certain subpoenas and court orders. Such records of access should indicate specifically the legitimate interest that each such party had in obtaining access to the student’s records and whether or not the request was granted. A student may inspect such records relating to his education records. Questions about the interpretation of this policy should be referred to AMDA’s General Counsel. 

Complaints regarding violations of a student’s rights under the Act may be filed with: 

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W. Washington, DC 20202-5920 Telephone: 202-260-3887 | Fax: 202-260-9001

Alcohol is prohibited anywhere on AMDA’s campus, regardless of a student’s legal age. The consumption, possession, distribution, sale or transfer of alcohol is prohibited. Violations will result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion from AMDA. Students who are knowingly present during such a violation will also be subject to administrative review and disciplinary sanctions. The use of alcohol containers as props (whether empty or full) are prohibited. 

Animals are not permitted on campus. For information regarding service and support animals, see “Accommodations for Students with Disabilities.''

Bullying is defined as the aggressive and hostile act(s) of an individual or group of individuals intending to humiliate, mentally or physically injure or intimidate, or control another individual or group of individuals. Such aggressive and hostile acts can occur as a single incident or repeated incidents, and may manifest in the following forms:

• Physical bullying includes but is not limited to: pushing, shoving, kicking, poking, tripping or engaging in any unwanted physical contact of another person; assaulting or threatening a physical assault; damaging a person’s personal property; damaging or destroying a person’s work product or work area.

• Verbal and written bullying includes but is not limited to: ridiculing, insulting or maligning a person or people; expressing abusive, threatening, derogatory or offensive remarks; attempting to exploit an individual’s known intellectual or physical vulnerabilities.

• Non-verbal bullying includes but is not limited to: expressing threatening gestures toward a person or invading personal space after being asked to move or step away.

• Cyberbullying is defined as bullying using an electronic medium, including but not limited to the internet, interactive and digital technologies and social media platforms, and mobile phones.

Students are responsible for reading all announcements and other information posted throughout campus. All postings must be approved and have the appropriate official administrative stamp in advance; unapproved postings will be removed.

Students should refer to course syllabi for a detailed explanation of required individual classroom attire.  Students not meeting attire requirements will be considered unprepared and may be asked to leave the classroom. 

AMDA reserves the right to confiscate any and all illicit items and substances including but not limited to, weapons, alcohol, drugs, and any related paraphernalia. Any and all illicit items and substances confiscated by AMDA will be properly disposed of, regardless of value or ownership.

Damage, destruction, or abuse of personal or school property will be subject to disciplinary review and may be subject to criminal action. Damage fees may be assessed to a student’s account. 

The possession, use, transfer, or sale of any object that may cause injury or death to oneself or others or the destruction of AMDA property, including but not limited to: firearms, knives, swords, spray paint, fireworks or explosives is strictly prohibited on AMDA’s campus and in housing areas. Violations of this policy may result in immediate expulsion from school.

Disorderly and indecent behavior and conduct that is disruptive, offensive, or presents a risk of physical harm to self, property, or other persons will not be tolerated. Such behavior will result in disciplinary action and possible police investigation. 

The consumption, possession, distribution, sale or transfer of controlled or illegal substances is prohibited on AMDA’s campus and housing. The possession or use of marijuana on AMDA’s campus or in AMDA buildings is prohibited under federal law and AMDA’s policies. Medical marijuana is prohibited on campus and in AMDA buildings under federal law and AMDA’s policies. The possession or use of paraphernalia that can reasonably be linked to drug activity is also a violation of this policy. Violation of this policy may result in immediate dismissal from school and may have legal ramifications. Students who are knowingly present during the commission of such a violation may also be subject to disciplinary sanctions. Proper use of and possession of medications prescribed by the student’s physician is allowed. For further information about AMDA’s drug and alcohol policy, please refer to “Drug and Alcohol Abuse Information” in the Appendix.

Smart phones, laptops and recording devices are not permitted for use in classrooms unless explicitly authorized by the faculty member.

Students are responsible for checking their AMDA email daily as it is the primary method of communication from administration to students. Class information including scheduling and room assignment changes will be emailed to students.

Modifying the intended use, or intentionally misusing, disabling, or tampering with any lifesaving equipment or devices even within a student’s personal residential room (i.e. smoke detectors, pull stations, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors, etc) is strictly prohibited. Violations of this policy are serious offenses and will result in a minimum $250 fine, and significant disciplinary and/or criminal action.

Each reception area has basic first aid supplies for minor injuries, including but not limited to: ice packs, bandages, antiseptic cream, etc. All AMDA buildings are equipped with at least one AED machine (Automated External Defibrillator). Tampering with these materials or devices will result in disciplinary and/or criminal action.

Free or discounted tickets to Broadway, Off-Broadway or other NYC performances are regularly given to AMDA and will be made available to students via e-blast. Students who sign up for tickets and then fail to attend the performance risk losing this privilege for the remainder of the term. Tickets are for AMDA students, staff, and faculty only. The sale or distribution of tickets to friends or relatives outside of AMDA is strictly prohibited.

Faculty and staff members may not accept gifts of any kind from individual students. However, a small token of appreciation to a faculty member may be given, provided it is given from the entire section of students.

AMDA’s graduation ceremony is a private, ticketed event for students and invited guests, held to celebrate the accomplishments of our students. Students and invited guests are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with AMDA’s Code of Conduct and to conform with common sense standards of behavior, dress and speech. If a guest violates any of these standards during the ceremony, or if AMDA has a credible, good faith belief that a guest will violate any of these standards, AMDA may prohibit the guest(s) from attending the ceremony, or escort the guest out of the ceremony. 

AMDA prohibits professional or documentary-style photography and/or videography at graduation by any individual or third party company, other than official AMDA contractors; parents and invited guests are welcome to take photos from their personal, handheld device. All professional photography and/or videography is the sole property of AMDA and no other party, without prior express, written consent, has legal permission to photograph or video any portion of the ceremony for professional or documentary-style usage. AMDA prohibits the use of any additional lighting or sound equipment by any student or invited guest without prior express, written consent of AMDA.

Guests are not permitted entry to any of AMDA’s academic buildings and may not visit classes, rehearsal spaces or demonstrations. Guests are permitted to attend special events including graduation performances with advanced tickets.  Per the Residence Hall Guest Policy located in AMDA’s housing license, residents in good standing may have visitors in a manner that does not infringe upon the comfort or rights of other residents and maintains an appropriate level of safety and security in the building. Residents or their guests who do not abide by all building and AMDA policies and procedures are subject to disciplinary sanctions. Students are responsible for guest policies specific to their building. Guests may not loiter in any area of the lobby or in the immediate vicinity of any academic or housing facilities. Students who Withdraw or take a Leave of Absence while on disciplinary probation will not be permitted access to AMDA’s residential buildings as a guest. Should any former students like to discuss the criteria for lifting this mandate, they should contact NYhousing@amda.edu.

Harassment is conduct that unreasonably interferes with an individual’s performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Threats to the health, safety, or welfare of others will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary and/or police investigation. 

Behavior that threatens to injure or endanger the health, safety or welfare of oneself or any member of the AMDA community will not be tolerated and will result in immediate medical or psychological intervention. This behavior may lead to a leave of absence or dismissal from AMDA at the discretion of senior administration. 

Students should wear comfortable, non-restrictive attire to class. Faculty may request and/or require students to cover body artwork and/or remove piercings during class time. Students who are not dressed appropriately according to the course syllabus may be asked to leave class and take an absence. 

When outside of the classroom, it is expected that students conduct themselves appropriately and speak in a quiet manner, respecting classes and individuals around them. Students are responsible to comply with city and state anti-noise ordinances governing public areas, particularly during nighttime hours. If a request is made to lower volume, students must comply in accordance with both New York City law and AMDA policy.

AMDA has a strict policy of non-retaliation, which protects any member of the AMDA community who has made a good faith report from acts of retaliation. Retaliation against members of the AMDA community who make good faith reports alleging institutional policy violations is prohibited. Attempted or actual retaliatory action may subject the violator to disciplinary action. Reports that are knowingly false, made with malicious intent, or with reckless disregard for or willful ignorance of facts are not good faith reports. Such reports are prohibited, and may be subject to disciplinary action. 

It is imperative that AMDA students maintain proper personal hygiene at all times. This includes but is not limited to bathing regularly, mitigating body odor, and wearing clean and laundered clothing. Students may be chemically sensitive or allergic to products with fragrance such as perfume, scented hand lotion, ets. Please limit the use of these while attending in-person commitments.

Requests for reimbursement must be submitted with all accompanying documentation within one week of an incident. All requests made within this time frame will be reviewed by administration. Any incident reported after one week will be taken on a case-by-case basis. Please note that reimbursements must receive approval and are not guaranteed.

Physical violence or threat of physical violence against any member(s) of the AMDA community, on or off campus, will result in disciplinary action and possible police investigation. Students are expected to avoid all physical conflicts, confrontations, and altercations. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action, including but not limited to immediate suspension.  

Plagiarism is defined as stealing someone else’s work and presenting it as your own. Those using the ideas, words, or statements of another person or source to support their ideas must always give credit to the original source. Students are also subject to violating this policy for submitting AI-generated content. 

If a course instructor detects plagiarism in any submitted work, the instructor may:

• Reduce a grade for the lesson or exam.

• Issue no credit for the lesson, exam or grade for the course. 

Students must abide by all local, state and federal laws when considering recording another person using video, audio or both. Recording classes are prohibited unless explicit consent is given by the instructor.

Rehearsal space is available on a first-come, first-served basis via the Student Campus Portal. Students may reserve up to 1 hour of studio space and 1 hour of voice room space each day, pending availability, and may reserve space up to 3 days in advance. 

AMDA has a strict policy against acts of a retaliatory nature where harm is done in response to harm or perceived harm. Retaliation against members of the AMDA community is prohibited. Attempted or executed retaliatory action may subject the violator to disciplinary action. 

AMDA prioritizes enforcement of our policies in order to protect members of the campus community, including visitors, from sexual assault. AMDA offers any student, faculty or staff member alleging sexual assault that occurs on- and off-campus support to enable them to continue to pursue their academic or career goals. Sex offenses (including but not limited to sexual assaults, fondling, rape, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking) represent violations of criminal and civil law, and constitute serious breaches of student conduct. See the “Sexual Misconduct and Assault Policies” in the Appendix for more information.

AMDA does not tolerate sexual harassment. Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments or behavior of a socially acceptable nature (what is socially acceptable to one person may not be to another). This refers to conduct that is unwelcome, sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature made by someone from or in an educational setting. See “Sexual Harassment, Misconduct, Assault and Discrimination Policies” in the Appendix for more information.

AMDA is a smoke-free campus. Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted in or around any AMDA building. 

Students are not permitted to extend social networking invitations (e.g., Instagram, Facebook friend requests, etc.) to faculty or staff while enrolled at AMDA.

AMDA reserves the right to regulate the use of studio space and will institute disciplinary action for any use deemed inappropriate by AMDA administration. Studio space may not be used for individual profit-generating purposes. Studios must be returned to neutral after every use. Neutral studio standards are posted in each classroom.

Students are prohibited from possessing firearms, knives, mace or any other device that has the appearance or function of a serviceable weapon. Prop weapons may be used in classes and performances with the explicit approval and supervision from AMDA faculty. 

Personal Safety Device Exception: While not encouraged, AMDA students are permitted to carry pepper spray in an amount equal to or less than 2.5 ounces for use ONLY as an instrument of self-defense and personal safety. Students who wish to carry pepper spray must submit a request by emailing the Dean of Students, Robert Manganaro at rmanganaro@amda.edu. Students must receive approval prior to bringing the product on campus. Students who choose to carry pepper spray are responsible for the safe and secure storage of the product.

Sexual Harassment, defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, made by someone from or in the work or educational setting, under any of the following conditions:

• Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly made a term or a condition of an individual’s employment, academic status, or progress.

• Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis of employment or academic decisions affecting the individual.

• The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact upon the individual’s work or academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or educational environment.

• Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision affecting the individual regarding benefits and services, honors, programs, or activities available at or through the educational institution.

Sexual Violence, defined as physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person without the person’s affirmative consent. Physical sexual acts include both of the following:

• Rape, defined as penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any part or object, or oral copulation of a sex organ by another person, without the consent of the victim

• Sexual battery, defined as the intentional touching of another person’s intimate parts without consent, intentionally causing a person to touch the intimate parts of another without consent, or using a person’s own intimate part to intentionally touch another person’s body without consent.

Sexual Exploitation, defined as a person taking sexual advantage of another person for the benefit of anyone other than that person without that person’s consent, including, but not limited to, any of the following acts:

• the prostituting of another person;

• the trafficking of another person, defined as the inducement of a
  person to perform a commercial sex act, or labor or services, through force, fraud, or coercion;

• the recording of images, including video or photograph, or audio of another person’s sexual activity or intimate parts, if the individual distributing the images or audio knows or should have known that the person depicted in the images or audio did not consent to the disclosure;

• the viewing of another person’s sexual activity or intimate parts, in a place where that other person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy, without that person’s consent, for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire.

Sex Offenses, defined as any sexual act directed against another person without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity.

Sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.

Sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.

Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim.

• The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the reporting party’s statement and with consideration of the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

• For the purposes of this definition— (A) Dating violence includes, but is not limited to, sexual or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse. (B) Dating violence does not include acts covered under the definition of domestic violence.

A felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed

• By a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim;

• By a person with whom the victim shares a child in common;

• By a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the victim as
  a spouse or intimate partner;

• By a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic
  or family violence laws of the State of New York if this is the jurisdiction in
  which the crime of violence occurred, or

• By any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from
  that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the State of
  New York if that is the jurisdiction in which the crime of violence occurred.

Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to—

• Fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or

• Suffer substantial emotional distress.

• For the purposes of this definition— (A) Course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to, acts in which the stalker directly,indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property. (B) Reasonable person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and with similar identities to the victim. (C) Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish that may, but does not necessarily, require medical or other professional treatment or counseling.

A student who is alleged to have violated AMDA rules and whose conduct is the subject of a complaint is entitled to receive notice of the charges pending against him or her and shall be given an opportunity to explain the events and circumstances involving the charges. 

The Administrators referred to above, or their designees, shall meet with the charged student, who may submit documentation or other information in support of his or her explanation. Students are not permitted to bring an attorney to this meeting unless it relates to a Title IX investigation, which allows for an advisor of their choice. The student may also provide names of relevant witnesses or knowledgeable individuals. The finder of fact may gather additional appropriate information, conduct other interviews, and consider other relevant information. The rules of evidence that are applicable in civil or criminal cases are not applicable to this process. 

In all disciplinary proceedings, time frames may be extended as reasonably appropriate. The standard of proof that is applied in determining whether a violation occurred is the “preponderance of the evidence” standard: i.e., whether there is a good faith belief that it is more likely than not that a violation occurred. 

The Conduct Review Committee will review the case to determine whether or not the student violated a policy and what the appropriate sanction is. Students may not meet with the Committee and should conduct any meetings with the Administrator.

AMDA maintains records of all disciplinary actions, and determines what information regarding discipline is made a part of a student’s record. The Administrator seeks to conduct a speedy investigation. However, all time frames are subject to circumstances such as availability of witnesses, etc. All investigations are conducted in good faith within a reasonable period of time. 

The Administrator shall inform the accused student of the Committee’s determination. Such notice shall contain a brief communication of the factual findings and the sanction to be imposed. In addition to a specific disciplinary sanction, the Committee also may require the student to participate in counseling, education, or community service, impose restitution, restrict the student’s interactions with AMDA faculty or students, or impose different or additional requirements as appropriate. The Administrator will ordinarily inform each victim or complainant of the outcome insofar as is appropriate in accordance with FERPA guidelines. 

As a result of the Disciplinary Process, the Administrator may impose the sanctions below in any combination (based on the conduct involved) upon any student found to have violated the Code of Conduct. The student ‘s disciplinary record and any related aggravating or mitigating factors may also be considered. Multiple sanctions listed below may be imposed for any single violation. 

1. Warning: A written notice to the student that the student has violated institutional rules or regulations. 

2. Probation: A written reprimand. Probation is for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student is found to have violated any institutional rules or regulations during the probationary period. 

3. Loss of Privileges: Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time. 

4. Restitution: Compensation for loss, damage or injury such as appropriate service and monetary or material replacement. 

5. Discretionary Sanctions: Work assignments, essays, discretionary service hours to AMDA or other related assignments. 

6. Residence Hall Suspension: Separation of the student from the residence halls for a definite period of time, after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmittance may be specified. 

7. Residence Hall Expulsion: Permanent separation of the student from the residence halls. 

8. Suspension: Separation of the student from AMDA for a definite period of time, after which the student is eligible to return. Conditions for readmission may be specified. 

9. Expulsion: Permanent separation of the student from AMDA. 

10. Revocation of Admission, Degree or Certificate: Fraud, misrepresentation and other serious violations of AMDA standards conducted in the admissions process or in obtaining a degree or certificate from AMDA may result in their revocation by the school. 

11. Withholding Degree or Certificate: AMDA may withhold awarding a degree or certificate otherwise earned until the completion of processes established in the Code of Conduct, including the completion of any sanctions. 

When a student is found to have violated an AMDA policy or rule and a sanction is imposed, the student may appeal the determination and sanction. If the case involves a student’s complaint against another student or group of students for discrimination, bias, sexual assault, harassment or similar violations of individual rights, and the complainant does not agree with the final determination or believes that the sanction imposed against the student charged was inadequate, the complainant may also file an appeal challenging the determination or the sanction. 

An appeal should be filed with the Student Affairs Department within seven days of the appellant’s receipt of the determination. The student must provide a detailed written request stating the basis for their appeal, with at least one of the following reasons: 

1. There were procedural errors that had a material impact on the fairness of the investigation. 

2. There is new evidence, which was previously unavailable, that could significantly impact the outcome of the case. 

3. The sanctions imposed were substantially disproportionate to the findings. Disagreement with the findings or sanctions is not, by itself, grounds for an appeal. 

Disagreement with the findings or sanctions is not, by itself, grounds for an appeal.

The appeal will be heard by the Appeals Administrator, as designated by the Provost or Senior Vice President of Student Affairs. Ordinarily, the appeal will be determined based on the application submitted by the student, any new evidence included in that submission and the record before the Appeals Administrator. However, the Appeals Administrator may seek additional information or clarification from any source deemed appropriate.

The Appeals Administrator may consider whether the procedures were appropriate and fair and whether there was sufficient evidence to support the finding reached by the original Administrator who imposed the sanction. The Appeals Administrator can decide to sustain, modify or reverse the previous determination or sanction in whole or in part. There is no right to appeal a decision of the Appeals Administrator. The Appeals Administrator will render a decision on appeal within thirty days or, if deemed necessary, may take an additional reasonable amount of time to come to a determination.

During an investigation through the Disciplinary Process, the Student Conduct Administrator may offer supportive accommodations when appropriate. Such accommodations may include mutual restrictions on contact between parties until the completion of the investigation, voluntary housing reassignment, recommendation to meet with a Mental Health Counselor, or other similar measures. Students may request reasonable accommodations as needed. The Student Conduct Administrator will evaluate any request for accommodations on a case-by-case basis