Polk State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs, activities, or employment.

Polk State is responsible for promoting and educating the community regarding the College’s core values and coordinating the College’s compliance with federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination including but not limited to Title Vl and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992 and the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA).

In concordance with the College’s Strategic Plan for student success, Polk State is committed to providing a bias-free learning environment that is free of discrimination and its obligation to ensure a bias-free educational environment. Specific procedures for filing a complaint and resolving academic disputes are provided in Rule 4.26 Student Appeal/Complaint Policy. In addition, the College has appointed an Ombudsman on each campus to provide students with an opportunity to have an off-the-record discussion about student concerns.  The roles and responsibilities undertaken by the Ombudsman do not replace the formal process for filing any type of complaint.

The College provides equal educational opportunities for qualified individuals with disabilities and complies with and supports the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Employees or students who have questions about ADA, accommodations, or any support measures should contact:

Ms. Dionne Formey, Coordinator, Disability Services
ADA Coordinator
Office of Disability & Counseling Services
863.292.3759
Winter Haven Campus, WAD 159
dformey@polk.edu

Role of the Ombudsman

At Polk State College, the Ombudsman: 

• • Listens to your concern(s) and reviews options.
  • Provides a “safe” place to talk confidentially.
  • Explains campus policies and procedures, rules, and processes.
  • Refers students to other individuals or offices when appropriate.
  • Acts as a neutral resource between a student and a faculty/staff member using informal mediation and/or other problem-solving techniques.
  • Facilitates communication between and among individuals.
  • Explains the grade appeal process and provides information on formal grievance processes.

At Polk State College, the Ombudsman does not:

• • Take sides.
  • Change grades or other College policies.
  • Identify individuals without permission, except as required by law.
  • Give legal advice.
  • Take action without your permission.
  • Act as a witness or later testify in a formal grievance or legal proceeding.
  • Fill other College roles that could create conflicts of interest in maintaining his/her neutral position.

Ombudsman Contact Information:

Amanda Paige-Morris
Coordinator, Student Activities and Leadership
3425 Winter Lake Road
Lakeland, FL 33805-9715
LAC-1239 D, Lakeland
863.669.4935
apaigemorris@polk.edu