The Texas Academy was created by the Legislature of the State of Texas (S.B. 1554) in 1993 to offer intellectually advanced, gifted high school-aged students in Texas the opportunity to pursue the ideals of academic excellence, ethical leadership, and community service within the context of a university setting. All students admitted to the Texas Academy receive full-tuition scholarships for 15 credit hours per semester from the State of Texas through the Texas Education Agency. The Texas Academy operates as an independent, special legislative school district under the auspices of the Board of Regents of the Texas State University System. In its capacity as a special legislative school district, the Academy has been authorized to confer its own diploma at graduation. Many Texas Academy students remain at Lamar University after their graduation from the Texas Academy while some attend institutions that specialize in a particular field of study.

Academy Statements

The Texas Academy is an enriched college level program for gifted and talented high school students in Texas who desire rigorous academics, innovative research, and service leadership opportunities that enhance student learning and leadership in a variety of academic areas. 

WHY

We inspire students to transform their passion into their purpose through rigorous academics, innovative research, and service leadership.

HOW

To do this, we offer high-impact educational experiences by supporting significant learning environments that offer choice, ownership, and voice through authentic learning opportunities.

WHAT

We prepare successful high school graduates who have their choice of top-tier undergraduate schools where they will impact and inspire others through innovation and leadership.

Academic Integrity

The Texas Academy was created by the Texas Legislature to give academically advanced Texas students the opportunity to experience the rigors of a university classroom while pursuing a variety of extracurricular programs promoting leadership development. As a gifted and talented program under legislative auspices, the Texas Academy holds its students to the highest standards of excellence, intellectual and moral, in and outside the classroom. The Texas Academy exhorts its students to be exemplary on all counts.

Students are specifically advised against all forms of cheating and plagiarism. The Lamar University Student Handbook Academic Policies outlines some examples of academic dishonesty and states: 

“Any student found guilty of dishonesty in any phase of academic work will be subject to disciplinary action. The University and its official representatives may initiate disciplinary proceedings against a stu­dent accused of any form of academic dishonesty including, but not limited to, cheating on an examination or other academic work which is to be sub­mitted, plagiarism, collusion, and the abuse of resource materials.”

Part of the student handbook definition of cheating is “purchasing, or otherwise acquiring and submitting as one’s own work any research paper or other writing assignment prepared by an individual or firm.” Plagiarism is defined as “the appropriation and the unacknowledged incorporation of another’s work or ideas into one’s own, offered for credit.”

Students seeking guidance to avoid plagiarism may consult with the course instructor, recent handbooks such The Little, Brown Handbook, and the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, or the Lamar University Student Handbook. It should be known that faculty members investigate all cases of suspected plagiarism as per university policy. Pursuant to Chapter VI, Section 5.36 of the Texas State University System, the following Disciplinary Procedures for Academic Dishonesty have been established:

• Academic Process. All academic dishonesty cases may first be considered and reviewed by the faculty member. If the faculty member believes that an academic penalty is necessary, he/she may assign a penalty but must notify the student of his/her right to appeal to the department chair, the dean, and eventually, the Provost (whose decision shall be final) before imposition of the penalty. At each step in the process, the student shall be entitled to written notice of the offense and/or of the administrative decision, and opportunity to respond, and an impartial disposition as to the merits of his/her case. After completion of the academic process, the academic officer making final disposition of the case shall refer the matter to the chief student affairs officer for any additional discipline that may be appropriate.

(2)        Disciplinary Process. In the case of flagrant or repeated violations, the chief student affairs officer may take such additional disciplinary action as he/she deems appropriate. No disciplinary action shall become effective against the student until the student has received procedural due process under Chapter VI, Subsection 5.6 except as provided under Subsection 5.(15) of the Texas State University System Board of Regents Rules and Regulations.

All accusations and incidents of academic dishonesty must be reported to the Texas Academy Staff and will be investigated as per University policy. If found in violation, acts of academic dishonesty will remain on a student’s educational record for the duration of his/her enrollment at the Texas Academy. Procedures concerning disciplinary consequences for academic dishonesty are specifically identified in the Lamar University Student Handbook and include the possibility of immediate dismissal from the Texas Academy.

In determining a student’s place within the Academy, the administration will consider the student’s academic, behavior, and involvement within the program. The administration reserves the right to ask a student to withdraw or not to extend an invitation for a second year when a student’s performance and/or behavior has demonstrated an inability or an unwillingness to function successfully and cooperatively with the academic, behavior, service learning, leadership training, and/or community expectations.  

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (Buckley Amendment)

The Federal Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 affords both former and current registered students a right of access to education records which contain information directly related to such persons, as well as the right to challenge the accuracy of those records.

 The act also restricts persons to whom the university may disclose a student's educational records without the student's written permission. Lamar University's policy is to comply fully with all provisions of the act.

FERPA rights cease upon death. It is the policy of Lamar University that no records of deceased students be released after the date of death, unless specifically authorized by the executor of the deceased's estate or by next of kin.

Attendance Requirements

The Texas Academy is a special legislative independent school program, and the Texas Academy funding is contingent on demonstrated attendance. Although professors may have absence policies, the Texas Academy requires students to attend all classes. Faculty members are requested to submit attendance reports to the Texas Academy administration. Students not attending classes risk disciplinary consequences, the loss of scholarships, and removal from the program. All absences (for both residential and non-residential students) must be reported in writing by the student to the Coordinator within three (3) class days of the absence. Absences not reported to the Coordinator within 3 class days will be recorded as UNEXCUSED.

If a student misses classes because of illness, he/she must submit the Class Absence Form. All Texas Academy students are required to present a doctor’s note to verify treatment to the Coordinator within three (3) class days to avoid disciplinary action. Students will need a doctor’s note to accompany absence of classes, if 3 or more days are missed.

It is the students’ responsibility to contact all of his/her professors should the student be out of class for any reason, including a recurring illness.

Note - All residential and non-residential students must follow all polices as outlined above.

Excessive and/or UNEXCUSED absences will be referred for disciplinary action; students may be at risk for discontinuation in the program at the discretion of the Texas Academy staff.

Weekly Check-ins Requirements

All first-time incoming students (both incoming juniors and new seniors to the Academy) will be required to attend three (3) check-ins per week. Check-ins are at least one hour each and students must provide proof or verification of their attendance by swiping their ID card at one of the locations, signing in, or asking the supervisor or assistant by emailing us at texas.academy@lamar.edu to verifying the student was in attendance. Weekly check-ins are a requirement to be invited back to the Texas Academy. Check-in requirements are listed below. 

While students may choose to complete all check-ins in the Texas Academy building, at least ONE (1) must be completed in TA each week.  The remaining may be completed at LU Tutoring (STARS), the Writing Center, Math Lab, Math Shop, SI Sessions, LU Success Center, or a meeting with a professor in whose class the student is currently enrolled. 

The Texas Academy building will have quiet hours during the hours of 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM for students using the building for study hall check-in. If the student would like to host an evening event or study session, they will need to coordinate with the Resident Assistants.  

Unexcused absences from weekly check-ins will be referred to the Student Success Coordinator for disciplinary action. Students who achieve a 3.0 or higher at the end of every semester will no longer be required to attend weekly check-ins. A student that receives a progress report mid-semester may be put on weekly check-ins. Any student at any time may be asked to attend weekly check-ins should there be reason to do so. 

Invitation Policy

The Texas Academy Administration will review each student’s academic and disciplinary record toward the end of each semester. Within the review process, Texas Academy Administrators will consider each student’s involvement and his/her impact within the Texas Academy community. 

We reserve the right to determine whether a student continues the privilege of continuing at the Texas Academy; depending on individual circumstances, such as the direct or indirect impact of a student's actions or deeds as a reflection within and of the Texas Academy. If grades or attendance are a concern, the Texas Academy reserves the right to place students on academic probation and/or release a student from the Academy, as deemed necessary. Further, being involved in drama, starting and/or spreading rumors of any kind, being disrespectful to students, staff, and faculty, and violation of Texas Academy or Lamar University policies will be factored into our overall decision.

We strive to ensure success in our Texas Academy community. Positive behavior and good influence are vital to the reputation of our students and program, and as a result, students may or may not be invited back to the Texas Academy for the following semester or year.

Students will receive written notification about their continuance prior to the start of the following semester. 

Lamar University Reaud Honors College

Entering students who meet academic requirements (3.6 GPA) may be eligible to take courses in the Reaud Honors College and may enroll in honors courses. Students with a semester GPA of 3.7 after their last semester at the Texas Academy are also eligible to apply to get into the Reaud Honors College and, if accepted, may enroll in honors courses the fall after graduating from the Texas Academy. Students who fail to maintain a 3.4 GPA risk dismissal from the Reaud Honors College and in such cases, continued participation is at the discretion of the Dean of the Reaud Honors College.

All Texas Academy students participate in the Texas Academy Leadership Community online with Honors College students. Students will build an ePortfolio and log critical experiences (authentic learning experiences and service leadership) throughout their time in the Texas Academy to make the transition smooth to the Honors College should students apply for acceptance. Students will need to apply for acceptance into the Honors College the spring of their senior year should they be interested in becoming a Reaud Honors College graduate.

Tutorial Assistance

In order to facilitate a successful transition from high school to a more challenging Lamar University course load, the Texas Academy strongly recommends that students take full advantage of the support systems. Students should schedule regular meetings with their professors. In addition, the Student Advising and Retention Services (STARS) Department (409-880-7201) offers individual and small group tutoring for any student. Lamar University also offers a free writing lab, mathematics lab, and foreign language lab to support academic success. Scheduling and payment of private tutors are the responsibility of the student. In the event that a student continues to have problems with a class, he/she should notify the Texas Academy Counselor immediately for further assistance.

Student Employment

It is expected that a Texas Academy student’s first priority is their academic career. We strongly discourage students from holding any job that jeopardizes both academic and extracurricular responsibilities of the program. All student employment must be reported and submit employment information to the Coordinator to ensure students are accounted for.

Students who gain employment on campus are permitted to work up to 19.5 hours per week.   Students who intend to work off campus are encouraged to work no more than 19.5 hours weekly.  Students may not work any shifts that will make them late to, or absent from, mandatory meetings, classes, curfew, or other required Texas Academy events. Students are specifically prohibited from working in any establishment that promotes “alcohol and illegal drugs or activities.”

 Students who reside on campus must meet Texas Academy rules and adhere to curfew regulations.  Students who miss check ins or return to their room past curfew will be subject to disciplinary action(s).  

Withdrawal from the Texas Academy

Students who wish to withdraw from the Texas Academy during the academic year or choose not to return at the end of the first academic year must meet with the Texas Academy staff to complete the withdrawal process. Students who withdraw from the Texas Academy may not enroll at Lamar University until they have graduated from high school. Students who withdraw from the Texas Academy may not attend Texas Academy sponsored events unless approved in writing by the Texas Academy Administrative Staff. All withdrawal policies for the Texas Academy and Lamar University will be followed as written for current students attending Lamar University.

Withdrawing from the Texas Academy and Lamar University does not relieve the student of any financial obligations under the Installment Payment Program or for any student loans, as these are the student's legal financial commitments, or other fees associated to his/her student account. Students who owe a remaining balance on the dorm must contact Cardinal Village to work out payment arrangements. No student is permitted to move out of the dorms permanently without discussing the move and receiving approval from parents and the Texas Academy staff.

Former students of the Texas Academy will not be allowed to be in Morris Hall with other Texas Academy students.

Textbooks

Students are responsible for purchasing or renting their textbooks. Textbooks may be purchased or rented at bookstores on or around campus and are available from online sites. Students should verify class number and section prior to purchase.

Grading Policy

The Texas Education Code lays out that grading policies are determined by the local school district; under that authority the averaging of semester grades is a local decision. 

Grades and Progress Reports

Grade Reports are not mailed by Lamar University. Students may check grades via their Self-Service Banner Account, current grades may also be available through LU Connect. Only courses in which grades have been recorded by each respective instructor will be accessible.

Parents should actively communicate with their student regarding attendance and grades. With student permission, parents may also access their student’s LU Learn (Blackboard) account to view course progress and grades IF the faculty member utilizes the LU Learn (Blackboard) system. LU Learn (Blackboard) is an integrated set of web-based tools for course management and delivery. It is accessible through LU Learn within LU Connect.

Progress reports are solicited periodically from professors during the semester. Parents and students will be notified immediately if an unsatisfactory progress report(s) is received (2 or more absences and/or grades lower than “C”).

Semesterly Reviews & Academic Probation

A main component of the Texas Academy experience is student academic success. Satisfactory Academic Progress and semesterly reviews for good academic/disciplinary standing will be conducted at the end of each regular long semester.

Superior academic performance is expected of Texas Academy students. The Texas Academy uses the Lamar University 4.0 grading scale and students must maintain a minimum 3.0 semester and cumulative grade point average (GPA) to avoid placement on the Texas Academy Academic Probation. Texas Academy Administrative staff reserve the right to make decisions about whether a student continues at the Texas Academy, depending on individual circumstances.

A student may be placed on academic probation for any singular or combination of the following reasons:

1. Failure to maintain a 3.0 semester GPA in any fall or spring semester.
2. Progress report(s) that indicate poor academic performance (less than a “C”).
3. Excessive absences (more than 3 unexcused per semester in a course(s)).
4. A letter grade of “D”, “F” or “I” in any course regardless of overall GPA.
5. Failure to attend all required events when assigned/required (includes check-ins and community meetings; service leadership obligations).

A Texas Academy student placed on Academic Probation:

1. must sign and abide by the Texas Academy Academic Probation Contract.
2. must re-enroll in the appropriate course(s) that was not successfully completed and make a “C” or better and/or complete all outstanding coursework that resulted in a less than satisfactory grade during the next available semester. Costs associated with courses that must be retaken will be incurred by the student, funding will not be provided by the Texas Academy. Grade replacement courses must be taken at Lamar University. Credits taken at another institution will not replace previously earned grades; no outside courses will be accepted for credit as a grade replacement.
3. must attend at least 4 check-ins per week of which one must be from the following: Tutoring Center, Writing Center, Math Lab/Math Shop, LU Success Coaching, office hours with a professor); Study Hall may be used no more than three times per week.
4. may be required to meet weekly with Texas Academy staff for an academic discussion/review.
5. may be removed from any leadership position within the Texas Academy organizations at the Texas Academy staff discretion.
6. may lose privileges as outlined by the Texas Academy staff necessary to ensure steps are taken toward academic success.

A student may be placed on academic probation mid-semester, at the discretion of the Texas Academy staff. Incomplete and dropped courses do not absolve students from weekly check-ins or required events.

*Any repeat courses in which a student is registered for the purpose of a grade replacement will not be covered by the Texas Academy or Lamar University; all fees must be paid out of pocket.  

*Parents will be notified when a student is placed on academic probation. A Student’s failure to comply with any policy while on academic probation or failure to maintain a cumulative and/or semester GPA of 3.0 may result in or place him/herself at risk for dismissal from the program upon review by the Texas Academy Administrative staff.

* Students who are placed on the Texas Academy Academic Probation and who fail to improve their GPA and/or who do not maintain a cumulative and/or semester GPA of 3.0 within the stipulated time may not be invited back to the Academy.

 Explanation of Letter Grades

A – Excellent

B – Good

C – Satisfactory

D – Passing

F – Failure

I – Incomplete

Q – Course was dropped during penalty-free period or course was dropped later, passing

QL – Dropped (S.B. 1231--Six drop rule)

S – Satisfactory (credit)

U – Unsatisfactory (no credit)

NG – No grade (Thesis/Dissertation only)

W – Withdrawn from Lamar University

The grade of "I" may be given when any requirement of the course, including the final examination, is not completed at the discretion of each individual professor/instructor. Arrangements to complete deficiencies in a course should be made with the instructor prior to the end of the semester or term. Incomplete work must be finished during the next long semester or the "I" will change to the grade of "F."

The instructor may record the grade of "F" for a student who is absent from the final examinations and is not passing the course. Change of grade procedures will be outlined by the Counselor on an as needed basis.

The grade of "W" or "Q" is given if the withdrawal or drop is made during the penalty-free period or if the student is passing at the time of withdrawal or drop during the penalty period.

Grade changes are typically submitted with the written authorization of the instructor with the submission of a grade change form along with the approval and signature of academic dean. This form must receive all proper signatures and be processed by the Registrar’s Office and according to Lamar University’s General Academic Policies and Procedures.

Calculation of Lamar GPA

Students receive a given number of points for each letter grade (A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0). The grade point average is not weighted. The Lamar GPA is based on a 4.0 scale and is calculated by dividing the total number of grade points earned by the total number of semester hours attempted. For example:

Thus, 58 divided by 16 = 3.625 Lamar GPA

Calculation of the Texas Academy GPA (combined GPA)

The Texas Academy will calculate the unweighted cumulative grade point average (4.0 scale) of the previous high school grades.  It is each student’s responsibility to verify the accuracy of the final transcript from their previous high school before the start of their first semester. If a change is required, it is the student’s responsibility to request the change be made by the former school, and send an updated official transcript to the Texas Academy as soon as possible, but no later than the end of their first semester. 

To determine a students Texas Academy GPA, TA will take the exact grades reported on the former high school transcript on a numerical scale and divide by the # of grades reported. Example - if all former high school grades add up to 3357 and 34 courses were taken, the average of that calculation is divided by 100 and multiplied by 4 to get the overall high school GPA of 3.94941176. This is the first number used in the overall combined GPA calculation.

Grades reported on the Lamar University transcript (alpha scores, A = 4.0, B = 3.0, etc.) will be reported as is. If a student has earned a 4.0 for all LU courses, the 4.0 is used as the second number in the overall combined GPA calculation.

The overall combined GPA would be 3.974705882.

Note: The Texas Education Code lays out that grading policies are determined by the local school district; under that authority the averaging of semester grades is a local decision. 

Ranking

The Texas Academy does not rank its students. Since our student body is composed of high academic achievers from high schools all over the state of Texas, we feel that to rank them against one another would not give an accurate representation of how they would match up with their scholastic peers had they remained in their home high schools. The grade point average is a measure of the student’s overall academic performance and is used in the determination of academic standing, rank in class, eligibility for graduation, program eligibility and honors eligibility. The annual school profile for the previous academic year will be available to submit with all college applicants for college bound seniors.

Academic Recognition

Students enrolled in 12 semester credit hours (or more) and maintain a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher each semester are included on the Dean’s List. Students with GPAs of 4.0 qualify for the President’s List and automatically earn places on the Deans’ List. Any student whose academic record includes an “I” (incomplete) is ineligible for Dean’s and/or President’s List consideration until the course requirements have been met and the grade officially recorded.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian

For every graduating class, the Texas Academy will recognize a valedictorian and salutatorian based on the unweighted cumulative grade point average (4.0 scale) of the high school freshman, sophomore, junior, and the fall semester of senior year (7 semesters). 

To determine a students combined GPA to be considered for Valedictorian and Salutatorian, TA will take the exact grades reported on the former high school transcript on a numerical scale and divide by the # of grades reported. Example - if all former high school grades add up to 3357 and 34 courses were taken, the average of that calculation is divided by 100 and multiplied by 4 to get the overall high school GPA of 3.94941176. This is the first number used in the overall combined GPA calculation.

Grades reported on the Lamar University transcript (alpha scores, A = 4.0, B = 3.0, etc.) will be reported as is. If a student has earned a 4.0 for all LU courses, the 4.0 is used as the second number in the overall combined GPA calculation.

The overall combined GPA would be 3.974705882.

In order to be eligible, the student must have taken a minimum of 45 Lamar credit hours during the regular long semesters (Fall/Spring only) while enrolled within the Texas Academy at Lamar University. 

Lamar University courses must be completed by the end of the fall semester before graduation with no class drops for consideration. Summer and mini semester courses will not be used in calculating GPA and credit hours for valedictorian and salutatorian recognition. Any student who drops a course will not be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian recognition.

Note* - The title of Valedictorian takes into consideration 7 complete semesters whereas the highest-ranking graduate takes into consideration 8 complete semesters; therefore, the Valedictorian may NOT always be the highest-ranking graduate. 

The Texas Education Code lays out that grading policies are determined by the local school district; under that authority the averaging of semester grades is a local decision.

Highest Ranking Graduate Scholarship
The State of Texas Highest Ranking Graduate Scholarship will be awarded to the student with the highest cumulative GPA after completing 8 semesters with a minimum of 60 credit hours at Lamar University; calculated using the same method as the Valedictorian. Highest Ranking Graduate

In the case of a tie for highest ranking graduate, additional criteria will be considered such as number of courses taken, difficulty of courses (level, prerequisites, etc.) and the number of honors courses completed to decide the recipient of the State of Texas Highest Ranking Graduate Scholarship.

Note* - The title of Valedictorian takes into consideration 7 complete semesters whereas the highest-ranking graduate takes into consideration 8 complete semesters; therefore, the Valedictorian may NOT be the highest-ranking graduate.

Academic Counseling Services

Texas Academy students take Lamar University courses and are integrated into the academic life of the institution. This allows students a real-world experience of college that prepares them to exercise the freedom and accompanying responsibilities demanded of adult university students.

The Academic Counselor is responsible for a variety of functions, including academic advising and college counseling. The Academic Counselor will guide students to ensure they complete mandatory coursework for high school graduation requirements and Lamar University core curriculum.

Lamar University's General Education Core Curriculum satisfies the criteria for compliance with the mandates of the Texas State Senate and the rules, recommendations and statement of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board found in Chapter 4 B §4.28-4.31. The curriculum (see Appendix) spans the humanities and sciences and provides an interdisciplinary foundation to pursue intellectual inquiry, make critical evaluation of the findings, and communicate those findings in the classroom and the broader academic environment. The Academy uses core curriculum courses to fulfill the Texas Academy graduation requirements. 

Students are integrally involved in the course selection process in subsequent semesters as a learning experience. Students are highly encouraged to take the Honors sections of courses for which they are eligible. After the first semester of attendance at the Academy, students are advised by the Texas Academy administration before registering for classes. Students are strongly encouraged to discuss their class options with their parents. 

All courses taken during a regular long semester (Fall/Spring), including electives and/or required electives, should be taken in standard format – that is, the priority would be face to face first. Only those courses approved by the Counselor and/or appropriate Texas Academy Administrative Staff may be taken online or by correspondence.  

Texas Academy Graduation Requirements

All students in the Texas Academy have the opportunity to graduate on the Distinguished Academic Plan with endorsements as set by the Texas Education Agency. Students who earn the distinguished level of achievement will be eligible to be considered for acceptance to a Texas public university under the Top 10% Automatic Admission law. Admission requirements and deadlines will vary dependent upon University/Institutional practices.

The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires students to complete a minimum of 26 credits including:

• a total of 4 credits in Math, including Algebra II;
• a total of 4 credits in Science; and
• successful completion of an endorsement (area of interest)

and/or students may be eligible by being university core complete. 

For example: University of Texas at Austin only reviews the top 6% of applicants for automatic admission.

Additional performance acknowledgements will be noted on the student’s final Texas Academy transcript. Multiple credits in other subject areas and additional endorsements may be notated also.

Standards for Course Registration/Special Circumstances

With written permission from the Academy staff or Counselor, a student may take a minimum of twelve (12) hours and a maximum of eighteen (18) hours during the fall and spring semesters; exceptions may be granted to the maximum. The State of Texas pays tuition costs for up to fifteen (15) credit hours per fall/spring semester. The student is responsible for all costs associated with the registration of additional hours over 15 credit hours.

Students are required to enroll in a full-time course load, a minimum of 12 semester credit hours.  All courses taken during a regular long semester (Fall/Spring), including electives and/or required electives, should be taken in standard format.  Students are expected to enroll in at least ¾ time face to face/traditional classes.  (Example: If a student enrolls in 12 semester credit hours, 9 semester credit hours should be taken on campus.) 

 Some exceptions may be made if a course is offered in an online format only or conflicts with other scheduled classes and no other options are available. Only those courses approved by the Counselor and/or appropriate Texas Academy Administrative Staff may be taken online or by correspondence. Only those courses approved by the Counselor and/or appropriate Texas Academy Administrative Staff may be taken online or by correspondence.

Courses may be taken during mini-sessions and/or summer semesters with the approval of the Texas Academy Counselor or appropriate Administrative Staff. The Texas Academy does not pay for summer or mini sessions’ tuition, fees, or books.

Students may complete coursework at other regionally accredited institutions. Credits earned at other instructions will be considered for transfer credits and are subject to Lamar University’s transfer policies. The grades earned at those institutions are not figured into the student’s Lamar or Texas Academy GPA’s. All Texas Academy students who wish to co-enroll or take courses as a transient student at another institution must meet with the Academic Counselor and receive approval prior to enrolling in any courses outside of LU or the Texas Academy.

Adding and Dropping Courses 

Any change in a student’s course load and schedule requires approval of the Texas Academy Academic Counselor and/or other staff.  If changes to a student’s course registration are to be made, these changes must be made in a timely manner and occur within the allowable registration dates and deadlines as outlined in the Lamar University Academic Calendar.  The Texas Academy Student Drop/Add Request Form must be completed and signed by the student, parent(s), and a member of the Texas Academy Administrative Staff. The Texas Academy students may not drop or choose not to enroll/complete an essential course necessary to meet high school graduation requirements as set forth by the Texas Education Agency. Unauthorized course enrollment modifications, (dropped or additional courses) can be amended at the discretion of Texas Academy staff without prior notification to the student, as long as no cost is incurred to the student.

After approvals are obtained, the Counselor will assist in completing a Lamar University drop/add form for the student to submit for processing. Students who drop a course may be required to pay all tuition and fees for the course. Students are responsible for:

• the total costs of any repeated courses in future enrollment
• knowing appropriate deadlines as published on the Lamar University website. 

Students may drop a course and receive a grade of "Q" during the penalty-free period of the semester or session. For drops after this penalty-free period, grades are recorded as "Q" or "F," indicating the student was passing or failing at the time of the drop. A grade of "Q" may not be assigned unless an official drop has been processed.

Pursuant to Education Code §51.907, Lamar University, along with all other Texas public institutions of higher education (including two-year institutions), may not permit an undergraduate student to drop a total of more than six courses, including any course a transfer student has dropped at another public institution of higher education in Texas, unless the student can show good cause for dropping more than that number, including but not limited to a documented showing of the following:

• a severe illness or other debilitating condition that affects the student's ability to satisfactorily complete the course;
• the student's responsibility for the care of a sick, injured or needy person if the provision of that care affects the student's ability to satisfactorily complete the course;
• the death of a person who:
  • is considered to be a member of the student's family or who is otherwise considered to have a sufficiently close relationship to the student that the person's death
  • is considered to be a showing of good cause;
• the active-duty service as a member of the Texas National Guard or the armed forces of the United States of either the student or a person who is considered to be a member of the student's family or who is otherwise considered to have a sufficiently close relationship to the student that the person's active military service is considered to be a showing of good cause;
• the change of the student's work schedule that is beyond the control of the student, and that affects the student's ability to satisfactorily complete the course; or
• other good cause as determined by the institution of higher education.

Forms for requesting a good cause exception to the six-drop rule are available from the Academic Counselor and/or the Office of the Registrar.

Note - Student work schedules do not permit students to drop a course. Academic coursework will not be scheduled to accommodate work schedules, so plan accordingly.

Repeated Coursework

Texas Academy students may retake courses for credit with the approval or at the recommendation of the Texas Academy Academic Counselor. All costs of a repeated course will be the responsibility of the student. Lamar University’s Course Repetition/Grade Replacement Policy is as follows:      

1. Students will have one chance to replace a grade for a course. If a student repeats a course, the official grade is the higher one, although all grades remain on the transcript. A grade, once earned and entered on a student’s transcript, cannot be removed.
2. The repetition of a Lamar course at another institution will not replace a grade in the GPA calculation of the Lamar University course. Any further grades earned by repetition of the same course will be used in calculating Lamar University’s GPA.
3. Any student who wishes to repeat a course must do so before completing a more advanced course in the same subject. The chair of the department offering the course will determine what constitutes a more advanced course. Before registering to repeat a course for grade replacement, a student must receive approval from the Texas Academy Academic Counselor.
4. Repeat courses may impact a student’s financial aid eligibility and awards. For more information review the Student Financial Aid Handbook online and contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Applications

The most competitive Texas universities recommend completed applications be submitted early in the fall semester of the year prior to requested admission. The Texas Academy students who plan to continue their education at Lamar University must submit a new application through Apply Texas. Scholarship applications will not be considered until acceptance is received.

College Admissions Tests (PSAT, SAT, and ACT)

All admitted juniors are required to take the PSAT exam during their first semester at the Academy. The exam is scheduled in mid-October every year. This is the exam used to identify National Merit Semi-Finalists and Commended, essentially all of whom become National Merit Finalists which may qualify them for scholarships.

Admissions Applications
The SAT or the ACT is one data point as part of the admissions consideration at the Texas Academy. In the Texas Academy, we review all applicants holistically meaning we review the Academy application, transcripts, standardized test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. If a student has not registered for the SAT or ACT and is applying for admissions, we strongly encourage students to do so as these scores are typically additive to their application and allow Texas Academy staff to have confidence the student is ready for college level rigor. The SAT or ACT exam may be taken on any campus prior to acceptance into the Academy. No score will automatically admit a student to the Texas Academy.

Current students are strongly urged to retake the exam in the spring of their first year in attendance and no later than the fall of their final year. Registration materials are available online (SAT - www.collegeboard.com or ACT - www.act.org). Current students are advised to register for an ACT or SAT that is administered on the Lamar University campus, if available. Students are reminded to send a college admission test report to the Texas Academy and the college/university of their choice.

College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) Code

The CEEB is required when students register for standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT. The CEEB code for the Texas Academy is 440533. 

Standardized Test Scores

All test scores must be reported directly from the College Board or ACT to the institution. TSI test scores may NOT be used for Texas Academy admissions, as per Texas state law. Students may log into their College Board accounts and request their test scores be sent to admissions@lamar.edu.

Texas Success Initiative

The TSI Assessment (TSIA) is part of the Texas Success Initiative enacted by the Texas State Legislature and designed to determine a student’s readiness for college-level coursework in the general areas of reading, writing, and mathematics.  Not all students are required to complete the TSIA.  Students may be exempt of the TSIA under the following circumstances: 

• ACT - scored a minimum 40+ on the combined English and Reading sections, and 22+ on the Math section;
• SAT - scored a minimum 480+ on the combined Reading and Writing sections, and 530+ on the Math section
• TAKS scale score of at least 2200 on the math section and/or 2200 on the English Language Arts section with a writing subsection score of at least 3;
• Veterans, active-duty personnel, and a student who is serving as and, for at least 3 years preceding enrollment, has served as a member of a reserve component of the U.S. armed services;
• Transfer from another institution having satisfactorily completed college-level coursework; or
• Enroll in a certificate program of one year or less (Level One certificates) at a public institution.

If a student does not pass one or more sections of the TSI Assessment, he/she will be placed in additional corequisite courses if accepted. Expenses associated with corequisite courses are not covered by the Texas Academy or Lamar University.

For more information, please visit the TSIA webpage and review the Texas Success Initiative Assessment - Student Information Brochure.

College Counseling

Texas law requires that students pursuing a bachelor’s degree complete 42 semester credit hours of a core curriculum. Students who complete the required university/college core curriculum with a “C” or better can have the entire core curriculum transfer for institutional credit at any other Texas public college or university.

Please note that enrollment in the Texas Academy is not a guarantee of acceptance; students must meet the admissions criteria (grades, service, etc.) of the institution of their choice. Given the selectivity and variety of competitive colleges in the United States, students and their parents interested in admissions to out-of-state or private institutions are strongly urged to begin the process of discussing college options and scholarship opportunities with the Texas Academy Counselor as soon as possible after entering the Academy. The newest graduating class is strongly encouraged to begin investigating their college choices and initiate their application process as soon as possible.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are integral to a student’s college application, especially at highly selective colleges and universities. Students are advised to request recommendations from those Lamar University faculty and the Texas Academy administrators most familiar with their character, academic achievement, and integrity of volunteer spirit, leadership skills, and those personal qualities that distinguish them as unique individuals. Students must provide for a minimum two-week response to their request. Students should personally ask the recommender BEFORE filling out the request forms. Forms for requesting letters from the Texas Academy administration are available in the forms section of the Texas Academy website.          

Transcripts

A student’s official Lamar University academic transcript is required for application to another college and may be ordered in person (112 Wimberly) or online from the Records Office at http://students.lamar.edu/registration/transcripts.html. Students are allowed five (5) Lamar transcripts per long semester at no charge. Each Lamar transcript exceeding five (5) transcripts per long semester will cost $5 each. Lamar transcripts ordered through Credentials Inc. will cost $2.60. Processing time is 24 hours.

A student’s official Texas Academy transcript is required for college applications and is available through the Texas Academy office AND through the Lamar University Office of the Registrar. Processing time is 48-72 hours. The Texas Academy transcripts may be requested on our webpage at: https://www.lamar.edu/forms/talh/transcript-request.html

 Please note that some institutions will require a transcript given directly from the Registrar’s Office as well as a transcript from the Texas Academy.

Official Texas Academy transcripts should be mailed by the Texas Academy office directly to the institution. Unofficial copies of a student’s Lamar University and the Texas Academy transcripts are also available via Self-Service Banner (SSB) and/or from the Texas Academy Counselor. Please reach out to the Texas Academy Counselor for additional questions regarding handling, processing, and sending of transcripts to the student and outside institutions.

Community Service Hours 

 To promote volunteerism and civic responsibility, Texas Academy students are required to complete a minimum of 12 service and/or volunteer hours during each fall and spring semester.  These hours may be completed at the same location or a variety of locations.  It is the student’s responsibility to communicate details of service to the parent including when and where they are serving. All service must be documented in LU Hub within 5 business days of service and include an upload of the signed documentation form available in LU Hub.  To be considered for National Honor Society, students must complete a minimum of 18 service hours each semester. 

• Service is unpaid work performed by a person or group of people for the benefit and betterment of their community without any form of compensation. 
• Service is NOT doing a favor for a friend or completing a task for which you are paid or receive personal benefit. 
• All service documentation including logs must be submitted by the last official class day. 

• TAHS candidates must also complete a minimum of 36 service hours before the selection committee convenes in mid-April.  

Students who have not completed the required service hours will receive an incident. Incomplete hours will be rolled to the following semester for completion.  

LU Faculty Mentor Program

In order to support its students’ success, the Texas Academy facilitates a mentor program. The mentor program pairs an individual student with a Lamar University faculty mentor. The university faculty mentor cannot be a graduate student. This mentorship is regarded by the Academy as critically important to the achievement of the full mission of the Texas Academy. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their mentors regularly. What does a mentor do for you?

• guides you with mutual trust and understanding;
• develops the self-confidence needed for growth;
• inspires you in difficult times;
• helps you set realistic goals;
• encourages responsible behavior;
• motivates, encourages, and advises you for success;
• helps you expand your horizons;
• assists you during a crisis or turning point;
• boosts your self-esteem;
• broadens your contacts on campus and in the community;
• supports your career and educational goals.

Mentors will remain paired with the same student(s) for at least one semester. Students may request a new mentor the following semester, or if an immediate change is necessary, a request should be submitted to the Coordinator.

Texas Academy Student Council

In keeping with the mission statement of the program, the Texas Academy offers leadership training through active student government. the Texas Academy Student Government offices are President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian and a Junior representative that is voted in. Elections and responsibilities of each office are delineated in the approved the Texas Academy student constitution located on the Texas Academy website. All members of the student council must be in good standing and maintain a 3.0 GPA. Academy staff must be present for all official executive meetings.

The Texas Academy Student Government serves as a model for leadership training and a key element in community building. Active student government is strongly supported by the Academy and students may propose activities to the Coordinator or Associate Director, all of which must be approved by the Dean.

Texas Academy Student Council will meet once per month to review the upcoming Community Meetings’ agenda.

Please see the Student Council Constitution for more information. 

Peer Mentor Program 

As a Texas Academy Peer Mentor, you are not only a leader amongst your peers, but a face for the Texas Academy Program. You are the are expected to encourage positive behaviors and serve as a positive role model for all students. When selecting Co-Leads and Peer Mentors, we look for students who are enthusiastic, active within the academy, and are always the first ones to jump in and lend a helping hand.  

Our Texas Academy Peer Mentors and Co-Leads are expected to uphold to the following expectations: 

1. Be Reliable 
2. Be Trustworthy 
3. Possess a positive attitude 
4. Be a Leader 
5. Be the Example 
6. Adhere to the confidentiality pertaining to staff and students 
7. Students who break confidentiality will be given an INCIDENT and will immediately be removed from their role. 

Co-Leads and Peer Mentors will sign a non-disclosure agreement when selected for the role. This states that you will not discuss private matters with any other students.  

If you have any issues meeting the above expectations, please discuss your concerns with your Peer Mentor Co-Lead and Advisor. Students that do not adhere to the above expectations will be removed from their role immediately. Additional disciplinary actions may follow.  

PM Academic Year Timeline and Semester Assignments 

Peer Mentor Co-Leads will plan the PM Kick Off Mixer that will take place in August, and End of the Year Bash that will take place in April/May. All Peer Mentors are expected to be at each event and assist where needed.  

Orientation: Peer Mentor Co-Leads will work with StuCo to plan student orientation. All PM’s, Co-Leads and StuCo will be present to execute the event.  

In addition, Peer Mentors will need to complete the following: 

1. Create a GroupMe for your PM Group and add your Co-Lead  
2. 1 Semester activity in person with ALL Mentees during the months October – November 
3. This needs to be planned well in advance so that all mentees can attend 
4. 1 One-on-one Meeting with mentees during each semester  
5. We will provide you with talking points/questions 
6. Once meeting is completed you will turn in feedback to Co-Lead. Co-Leads will provide updates to Peer Mentor advisor at their next meeting.  

Photo verification will need to be provided for all meetings whether it be virtual or in person to verify attendance.  

In addition to the above, Peer Mentor groups will also “compete” on a point system. All students will receive 1 point per service hour, and additional outings with your entire group will gain you 50 points per outing.  

PM Co-Lead Overview 

The Texas Academy Peer Mentor Program will have two Co-Leads each academic year. Co-Leads along with all Peer Mentors are selected be Texas Academy staff.  

Responsibilities of a Co-Lead: 

1. Sit in on Student Executive Board Meetings as voting members 
2. Meet monthly with the PM Advisor 
3. Create a check-list for new students in TA (work with all PMs on this) 
4. Oversee 5 mentor groups 
5. Create questions and talking points for PM one-on-one meetings with their mentees 
6. Review feedback from mentors and provide updates to PM advisor 
7. Monitor PM GroupMe accounts to verify PMs are communicating with their mentees regularly 
8. Hold Peer Mentors accountable when they are not meeting the expectations listed above 
9. If there is an issue, communicate with PM to determine where and what any issues may be before requesting the advisor speak with them 
10. Track and update the PM point system spreadsheet by documenting monthly activities, and any additional points given 
11. Advisor will add points as service hours are submitted 
12. Plan the PM Kick Off Event/Mixer and assign roles for PM’s 
13. Coordinate with Student Council to plan Senior Mafia and the End-Of-Year Bash 
14. Setup and go over the PM Pyramid at all Community Meetings that will showcase who is in the lead for points 

Texas Academy Honor Society 

The goal of the Texas Academy Honor Society chapter is to bring the accomplishments of outstanding students to the attention of parents, teachers, peers, and the community. Our chapter will strive to give practical meaning to the Society’s standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These four ideals are considered as the basis for selection. No student is inducted simply because of a high academic average. The Texas Academy Honor Society strives to recognize the total student—one who excels in all these areas.

Qualifications: To qualify, junior level students must have a minimum 3.5 GPA and have completed at least 18 service hours in the fall semester, and 18 completed for spring before selections are made in March.  

*Eligible seniors that wish to apply must meet all requirements by the end of the Fall term. They will be inducted early so that they can participate in the spring service project to earn their stole. 

Officers Roles (appointed by TA administration):

President: Responsible for setting up regular group meetings and communicating with the advisor on meeting overviews and upcoming volunteer work.

Vice President: Assist President with holding group meetings and finding additional service opportunities for both TAHS members, and TA student body.

Secretary: Responsible for keeping role at meetings, taking notes, sending out reminders and notifying TAHS members and TA student body of volunteer opportunities. The secretary will coordinate with TA coordinator and success coach to add volunteer opportunities in LU Hub.

Expectations:

TAHS members are required to maintain a minimum of 18 service hours per semester, and in addition to the 18 hours serve at one Texas Academy and/or Honors event per semester. The selected events will be exclusive to TAHS members only for volunteering. These include Honors Scholars Day, Paneling at Preview Days, Spindletop Events with Welcome Center, working the booth at Cardinal View, Texas Academy Graduate Luncheon, and Graduation.

TAHS members will also need to organize and execute one collaborative service project that involves a local National Junior Honor Society chapter. Selection of the local NJHS chapter will be dependent on which school districts current TAHS members were a part of, and what schools are willing to participate.

TAHS members are expected to participate at the TAHS induction ceremony where they may be asked to speak to one of the pillars, open and/or close, hand off certificates to new members, and serve as greeters.

TAHS members will receive a certificate when inducted and a stole as a senior for graduation.

Letterman Jacket Qualifications 

Texas Academy Students may “letter” in one of the following: 

• Complete 60 Service Hours 
• Compete in Houston Area Model United Nations 
• Student Council Member 
• Peer Mentor 
• Texas Academy Honor Society
• VEX Robotics Competition Team 
• Debate Competition Team 
• Reseach – Faculty Sponsored 

Jackets may also be purchased by any student who is within 30 credit hours of graduation. Texas Academy will pay for the patch earned if listed above. All jackets and additional patches are purchased by the student.  

Texas Academy Community Meetings

Attendance is mandatory and absent students will be referred for disciplinary review. The Texas Academy Community Meeting is the weekly student forum for presentation of information regarding the Texas Academy activities, discussion of events and issues, and small group meetings for planning purposes. The Texas Academy Student Council President presides over the weekly meeting. The President will distribute an agenda identifying all administrative and the Texas Academy community issues for consideration to all the Texas Academy members at the beginning of the meeting. Following consideration of all administrative agenda items, the president will lead the Texas Academy students in a discussion of agenda items as needed. College Advising workshops, guest speakers, and team-building events will also be included at Community Meetings. The Texas Academy Student Council Secretary takes attendance at each meeting and logs this information for the Texas Academy Coordinator. 

Texas Academy Special Events

On occasion there will be opportunities to attend Texas Academy sponsored events. To be considered for such events, students must not do any of the following:

• Missing Classes

Missing class to attend a conference or competition is a privilege and will only be considered for students in their second semester or above. Any student planning to participate in club travel must not be on academic probation with the Texas Academy or Lamar University. In addition, any Texas Academy student that has been placed on disciplinary restriction (or any documented disciplinary issue) is not permitted to participate in events. If this is a club event, students will need to declare this event with the Texas Academy Coordinator at the beginning of each academic year to begin the approval process. If the request to miss class is approved in writing by both the Coordinator and the Dean, it is the responsibility of the student to notify and work out any details with the professors of the classes that will be missed. The Texas Academy will not issue an excuse form to students nor consider this absence as an official Texas Academy/Lamar University absence. It is up to each individual professor whether or not he/she will allow the student to miss class. Students are required to abide by the guidelines as per provided by the professors. No approval will be given by the Texas Academy for students to miss classes, exams, or other major assignments.

• Missing Exams or Other Major Assignments

If a conference or competition takes place during an exam or other major assignment, affected students are not permitted to attend the event, unless prior arrangements have been made and agreed upon by the student, professor, staff, or Texas Academy staff member.

• Closed Weekends and University Holidays

There will be no travel over closed weekends or University holidays. The Texas Academy will not sponsor travel or trips in any way during closed weekends or University holidays. The Texas Academy funding, equipment, vehicles, or staff for travel over these breaks are not available.

Texas Academy Clubs and Committees

To support the development of its students, the Texas Academy offers a variety of extracurricular activities designed to fulfill current students’ interests and goals. All officers in the Texas Academy organizations must be in good standing and earn and maintain a 3.0 GPA. The Texas Academy students also have the opportunity to further their leadership skills by organizing and operating their own special interest clubs and organizations, with an assigned advisor. Students wishing to begin a new club should schedule an appointment with the Coordinator to review Lamar University and Academy requirements regarding proposed purpose and activities.

Clubs and committees must have the approval of the Director, have an Academy advisor (the Texas Academy administrator) and hold their meetings as scheduled. First year students must meet their first semester academic goals before proposing a new club or organization. All activities must follow Lamar Code of Student Conduct and be approved by TA Administration.      

For the Texas Academy students and administrators alike, scheduling convenient club and committee meeting times is of the utmost importance. Students holding leadership posts in Texas Academy clubs should convene at the beginning of each semester to determine the club schedule for the term and report the club/committee plans prior to the beginning of all scheduled events and clubs.

All students must join either a club and/or committee. Club dues are $20 to join for the entire year. Students may join multiple clubs, but all club dues are non-refundable. If a student joins a club, but does not contribute or participate, the club will retain the $20 club dues. A student is not officially allowed to participate in club activities without paid club dues. Club dues will be retained by the club advisor and funds will be divided as follows: 25% will automatically be places in the Texas Academy Event Fund ad the remaining 75% will be used for club purchases. At the end of the academic year, any remaining funds will be placed in the Texas Academy Event Fund. Club advisors will work with the secretary of the club to report their budget and items purchased at the end of each long semester. 

Some requirements for official Texas Academy clubs and committees:

• All Texas Academy clubs must have an advisor or staff member present at official meetings
• Clubs will provide the Coordinator the names of students holding executive roles
• Clubs should clearly define goals or objectives and have them prepared and available for their advisor and club members at the first meeting of the semester
• In the first week of the semester, clubs should provide their advisor a list of topics and plans for the semester
• Clubs will designate a President, Vice President, Secretary/Treasurer, and Junior representative
• Meetings should be held during the day at the Texas Academy or in the evening at designated locations on campus for groups to meet (Setzer Student Center, Library, Dining Hall, etc.)
• 2-3 evenings per week will be available for clubs to meet at the Texas Academy (when a staff member is present)
• No club will meet at the Texas Academy when no staff member is present.

At official club and committee meetings an appointed club representative:

• Must record attendance digitally (advisors should maintain copies of each meeting’s form as attendance will be a factor when considering student eligibility for club events or travel).
• Club secretaries should record general notes on discussions, presentations, guest speakers, etc.

The Texas Academy will follow the Lamar University Code of Conduct Policy prior to any additional guidelines and conditions set forth by the Texas Academy to enhance safety and security measures for all students.

The Texas Academy students are individually and collectively responsible for their behavior and accountable for their actions. Every individual must take the initiative and responsibility for his/her own learning and awareness of the differences, which exist within the community, avoiding actions that diminish others. The Texas Academy will not tolerate verbal or written abuse, threats, intimidation, violence, disrespect, intolerance, or other forms of harassment against its members. We cannot accept ignorance, stress, or anger as an excuse, reason, or rationale for such behavior, to include sarcasm or similar words that may be misinterpreted.

Because the Texas Academy is comprised of a unique population of minors residing away from home, extra precautions have been established to facilitate the transition from high school to Lamar University and to provide a more secure living environment. Any interference with the security measures in place for students’ safety is considered behavior unbecoming of a Texas Academy student and may result in suspension or dismissal from the program. Students who cause damage to property are responsible for all repair costs to damaged property. 

Hygiene and Appearance

The Texas Academy students’ appearance should reflect an awareness of their status as recipients of the State of Texas legislative scholarship. Students are always expected to maintain a neat appearance and to dress appropriately for any and all occasions. As such, Texas Academy staff reserves the right to ask students to change clothing if skin coverage is not appropriate.

No midriffs (crop tops), short shorts, short skirts, low-cut shirts, low-cut tank tops or apparel with vulgar or profane slogans will be allowed in the Texas Academy building.  Pants should be worn at the natural waist.  All undergarments must be concealed. 

Standard hygiene is defined as conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness. Students are expected to demonstrate maturity and good judgment, even in matters of appearance and self-expressions.

Vehicles and Other Motorized Transportation

The Texas Academy students can have a vehicle while enrolled in the program. Parking registration tags must be purchased from the Parking Office in the Wimberly Building. Students are required to follow all parking regulations, including display of parking tags and use of designated parking lots for students. All Texas Academy students must register their vehicles in the Texas Academy office. Students are not allowed to park in the reserved parking spaces next to the Texas Academy office or any reserved parking spaces across campus. If students do not follow the LUPD parking ordinances, they are subject to citations/fees which will be applied to their student account.

Students may drive their own vehicles to the Texas Academy sponsored events if parents sign a waiver of liability form specifically for each event students drive. 

Bicycles, Skateboards, and Roller Blades

Students can have a bicycle, skateboard, and roller blades while enrolled in the program. Students are encouraged to register their bicycle with the Lamar University Police Department. The use of bicycles, skateboards, and roller blades is not allowed in any Lamar University building or prohibited areas of Cardinal Village. 

Dorm Room Cleanliness

Resident Assistants and/or the Texas Academy staff may conduct weekly health and safety inspections of student rooms. The Texas Academy staff may conduct unannounced room inspections. 

The Texas Academy expects and requires students to maintain their rooms free of garbage or debris that is unsightly, unsanitary, or malodorous; determination of these conditions is at the discretion of the Texas Academy staff and Residential Assistants.

Further, the Texas Academy students are expected to maintain their room in an orderly manner so as not to disrupt free movement in the room. Disregard of these requirements constitutes a potential public health threat, and students in violation of this policy risk disciplinary action if they fail to observe the noted standards within 24 hours of a warning by the Texas Academy or Cardinal Village community assistant staff. Dorm room garbage and debris must be disposed of as directed in the lease agreement.

Closed Weekends

On a closed weekend, students must vacate the residence hall by 4:00 PM prior to the campus closure or closed weekend. Texas Academy staff will confirm closed weekend plans with parents prior to student departure. Students may not return to the residence hall until after 2:00PM the following Sunday afternoon. 

All rooms must be free and clear of clutter for dorm walk throughs. Dorm walk throughs will begin at 4:30PM on Friday. No leftover food, trash, or open liquid should be left behind. All showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets should be cleaned prior to departure or students may be subject for disciplinary review.

Communications (cell phone & email)

The Texas Academy administration uses Lamar University email as the primary method of communication. Lamar University provides all students with an LU email account: Microsoft Outlook. All Lamar University communication (including financial aid, housing and EMERGENCY ALERTS) will be sent to the students’ LU email addresses. Students are reminded to inform the Texas Academy staff immediately of cell phone or email address changes. Students are responsible for updating their email, address, and phone number in Self Service Banner (SSB).

Community Damages (Residence Life)

Students are strongly urged to report any violation involving Cardinal Village damages to the RA staff, with the names of those responsible. The Texas Academy and Cardinal Village will make every effort to maintain the confidentiality of students who report an incident.

If the identity of the person responsible for damages cannot be determined after investigation, the Housing & Residence Life Director may prorate the cost to repair the damages and administrative fees among all or any of the residents, as is deemed fair by the Residence Life Director.

Computers/Network Use

• Acceptable Use

Students must respect the integrity and security of Lamar University computer systems and network, and the privacy and preferences of other users. Responsibility for learning about and complying with Lamar University Acceptable Use Policy ultimately rests with the individual. The network may be used to download, copy, or store any software, shareware, digital media files or freeware, as long as the use complies with copyright law licensing agreements, and campus policies, such as storage space limitations and network bandwidth restrictions. The network may not be used for any activity, or to transmit any material, that violates United States or local laws. The Texas Academy students should not share their username and password with anyone.

• Unacceptable Use

The network may not be used for commercial purposes. Advertising and sponsorships on Lamar University websites are restricted. In addition, students may not permit other persons to use their usernames, passwords, accounts or disk space, or disclose their usernames, passwords or account information to any third party. Students may not log on to someone else's account, internet address, or other network codes, or attempt to access another user's files. Students may not create false or dummy accounts to impersonate someone else. Students may not try to gain unauthorized access ("hacking") to the files or computer systems of any other person or organization. Students may not impersonate another person by forging e-mail, web pages or other electronic media. Students who maliciously access, alter, delete, damage or destroy any computer system, computer network, computer program, or data will be subject to disciplinary action by Lamar University, and criminal prosecution as well. Students may not disrupt or attempt to disrupt network traffic, and they may not attempt to monitor or capture network traffic in any way. Finally, students may not intentionally create, store, display, print or transmit information that violates the university’s Sexual Harassment Policy. See https://www.lamar.edu/titleix/report-sexual-misconduct/index.html. 

On Campus Housing – Cardinal Village (CV)

Students that live on campus are housed in the gated Cardinal Village residence complex which offers two bedroom/single bath suites. Students are separated with males on one floor and females on another.  Students are assigned to floor according to their gender assigned at birth. Morris Hall, Building 9 is fully secured for the safety of the students with additional sets of alarmed hall gates and separate locks on individual bedroom doors. In addition, each floor is equipped with a security camera system. The Academy also employs specially trained security officers. Each room is equipped with smoke detectors, fire alarms, cable, and Ethernet connections. Health and safety rules are firmly enforced. Failure to comply with policies and procedures will be referred for disciplinary action and may result in removal from the program.

Security is provided through the Lamar University Police Department to monitor the front entrances of each residence hall. Additionally, University Police may, at their discretion, make rounds through the residence halls on a random or scheduled basis. An additional Security Officer is specifically assigned to the Texas Academy wing in case of emergency.

Texas Academy students living in the dormitory on campus are required to adhere to all Texas Academy rules and policies as well as have familiarity and follow the rules/guidelines set forth in the Housing and Residence Life Handbook and Lease Agreement. 

Texas Academy students are subject to the rules and policies outlined in the CV lease as they do not supersede the Texas Academy/TSUS policy governing the residence of minors on the Lamar University campus. In the event of a conflict between the lease agreement and the Texas Academy/TSUS policy, the TSUS policy prevails and governs. For further clarification, please refer to your lease.     

Expectation of Academy student behavior includes but is not limited to the following:

Regulatory Guidelines for Students

• Students are required to obtain approval from the Texas Academy and Cardinal Village staff before posting signs in Cardinal Village public areas (e.g., lobby, stairwells, etc.).
  1. Other signs must be approved by the Texas Academy and the LU Marketing Department before posting around on campus. Students should see a Texas Academy staff member should they choose to post posters or hang flyers around campus. All signs must be preapproved.
  2. Only signs/artwork/images outside of dorm rooms should not contain explicit language or anything inappropriate that would cause contention.
• Using an emergency door for non-emergency purposes is a misdemeanor. Opening, entering, or exiting from Morris Hall, Building 9 through any opening other than designated doors is strictly prohibited and will be referred for the Texas Academy disciplinary action.
• Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages or any other substance in Cardinal Village is prohibited at all times. See Lamar University’s Alcohol Policy that outlines fines and eviction policy.
• Possessing or using ammunition, firearm(s), illegal knives (knives with blades longer than five and one-half inches, hand instruments designed to cut or stab another by being thrown, stilettos, poniards, Bowie knives, swords, and/or spears), or other illegal weapons on university property (see, TSUS Policies, Chapter VII, paragraph 4). Please refer to the Code of Student Conduct.
• Excessively loud percussive or electronically amplified musical instruments should not be played on the premises except for scheduled student activities in common areas. organized by the University, Cardinal Village management or staff.
• Window screens must remain permanently in place and subject to Cardinal Village’s removal policy (throwing, placing, or hanging anything out of the window will be subject to disciplinary action and or eviction).
• Morris Hall and/or dorm room locks may not be altered, changed or added by tenants under any circumstances.
• Storage for unwanted furniture is not available. All furniture will need to be returned to its original position prior to checkout; furniture may not leave the premises at any time.
• Section 21 of the Lease Agreement, Use of Premises, prohibits any commercial or business activity within the dorm room units (includes babysitting):
• Use, sale, or distribution of illicit drugs result in the student to be turned over to the criminal or university authority. Residents or guests caught or suspected of using drugs will face disciplinary action including the possibility of eviction. Contraband inspection services utilizing contraband detection canines will be conducted on an unannounced basis. Communal areas, individual rooms and automobiles shall be subject to inspection.
• Hazing by any club, group, organization or individual is strictly forbidden by State law. Hazing includes “any act that injures, degrades, disgraces, any fellow student or person.” Pledging activities are prohibited.
• Laundry facilities are for residents’ use only.
• Small group gatherings or small group parties must receive prior approval from the Texas Academy staff.

Prohibited Items and Materials

• Wireless routers (WiFi is provided and personal routers interfere with the network)
• Grills, including George Foreman grills, BBQ grills, hibachis, etc.
• Hot plates, electric skillets, toasters, toaster ovens, crock pots, slow cookers, rice cookers, additional microwave, etc.
• All other heating and cooking appliances
• Dressers and other furniture including waterbeds (units are too small)
• Patio furniture
• Air conditioning units (window and portable)
• Lava lamps, heating lamps, portable space heaters, halogen lamps
• Extension cords and multi-outlet plugs because they are a potential fire hazard (Note: power cords and surge protectors are allowed.)
• String lights of any kind (including battery powered) such as Christmas/holiday lights
• Weapons and/or firearms of any kind (throwing stars, knives, bows, garrotes, etc.)
• Candles or any other item producing an open flame, including candles with wicks removed
• Wax or oil warmers, incense burners
• Alcohol - beer, wine, sprits, or any beverage containing alcohol
• Flammable/combustible materials like paint thinner, gasoline, kerosene, lighter fluid, fireworks, etc.
• Pets of any kind, unless the animal has been certified as a service animal by the Disability Resource Center
• Darts and dart boards
• Major appliances, including washers, dryers, and dishwashers
• Aerial antennas, masts, and other short wave/ham radio equipment

IMPORTANT: Texas Academy students must avoid possession of tobacco products, drugs, alcoholic or any other controlled substances or other inappropriate material or paraphernalia (such as bottles, ashtrays, indecent or violent publications) or materials that promote such inappropriate behavior is prohibited.

NOTE: For a full list of permitted/prohibited behaviors and items, refer to the Housing and Residence Life Handbook.

Roommates

The Texas Academy endeavors to pair students with complementary and compatible roommates. Both students should be guided by several important principles: mutual respect, consideration, tolerance, and an ongoing commitment to civil, open communication. 

Roommate Rights

Each resident must respect his/her roommate/suitemate's rights to privacy and normal use of the suite. Also, each resident must ensure that any guest or visitor invited into the suite respects the roommate's privacy and use of the suite. The roommate should not be compelled to leave to accommodate a guest, nor should he/she be placed in situations that might cause embarrassment or inconvenience. Roommates/suitemates are encouraged to resolve problems between themselves before involving an RA or other Texas Academy Administrative staff and/or Housing and Residence Life staff. If the RA is unable to resolve the conflict, Texas Academy Administrative staff and additional Cardinal Village staff will be notified.

The noted rights constitute a suggestion by Lamar University/the Texas Academy to assist students in creating and maintaining a congenial living environment. The Texas Academy students should diligently work to be the type of roommate whose attitude and conduct effectively ensures the following rights:

• To have personal privacy.
• To study free from undue interference.
• To sleep with as little disturbance as possible.
• To live in a clean, orderly living space.
• To refuse a request without feeling guilty or selfish.
• To expect that roommates will respect each other’s personal belongings.
• To host guests provided they follow all policies and respect the rights of the roommate.
• To be free of physical, sexual, and emotional harassment.
• To have one’s race, gender, religion, sexual orientation given the same respect anyone would desire.
• To speak openly, but courteously.
• To be treated with consideration and kindness.
• To enter the dorm room whenever desired, unless other provisions are mutually decided.
• To expect that the roommate will not violate Lamar University, Texas Academy, or Cardinal Village policies in the room.
• To expect that any and all disagreements will be discussed in an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect, and that it is acceptable, when any roommate feels it is necessary, to involve a Texas academy administrator or staff member in such a discussion.

 Housing Contract

All students must complete a Housing Contract for the period of time they reside on campus. The contract term is for both the fall semester and the spring semester of the academic year. Housing Contracts must be signed via the Housing portal on the Residence Life website. A copy of the Housing Contract can be viewed online at www.lamar.edu/residencelife.

Returning students must renew Housing Contracts each contract period but are not required to pay an additional down payment. Students who want to cancel their Housing Contract must do so by the dates specified in their Housing Contract. 

Resident Assistants (RAs)

Resident Assistants are staff members whose responsibilities include supporting and assisting students in the residence hall, as well as enforcing all the Texas Academy and Lamar University policies pertaining to residential life in the Morris Hall complex. RA’s are not permitted to have the Texas Academy students in their rooms in Morris Hall. RA’s report to Texas Academy Administration and Cardinal Village for any concerns. All students are expected to listen and follow instructions from the RA’s. 

Room Changes

Room change requests are typically requests for a roommate change, and this option should only be considered a last resort after conflict resolution, consultation with a RA and mediation by the Texas Academy administrators have been fully exhausted as possible solutions. Room changes are typically authorized at the end of the semester. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

Room Entry

Lamar University, the Texas Academy, and Morris Hall reserve the right to enter rooms for inspection, cleaning, or maintenance at reasonable times. Cardinal Village and the Texas Academy staff routinely enter student rooms during Thanksgiving, semester, and spring breaks to ensure compliance with maintenance and safety standards. Access to student rooms is not independently granted to friends, relatives, or other students by Cardinal Village or the Texas Academy staff. Room entry may occur at any time should there be reason to do so.

In emergencies, the supervisory entities (Lamar University, the Texas Academy, and Cardinal Village) reserve the right to enter rooms without notice when an imminent danger to life, safety, health, or property is reasonably determined. With approval by the Dean, his/her designee, or the Lamar University Police Department, a room may be entered when there is reasonable cause to believe a violation of Lamar University/the Texas Academy rules and regulations has occurred or is taking place.   

Room Searches

Lamar University, Texas Academy, and Cardinal Village may conduct the search of a room in the residence hall to determine compliance with Lamar University Code of Student Conduct and federal, state, and local laws, and may obtain evidence during the search, when there is reasonable cause to believe that a violation of such rules, regulations, or laws have occurred. This evidence may be used by law enforcement personnel in the prosecution of criminal or civil crimes.

• The Texas Academy Dean, the Vice President of Student Engagement, or his/her designee will determine the existence of probable cause.
• The designated administrator must give authorization “verbal or written” before a search can be conducted. The search will include the designated administrators and other University officials as appropriate.

In extraordinary circumstances outside law enforcement agencies acting under a legal warrant are empowered to conduct room searches.

Access to Residence Halls

Access to residence halls is controlled by a computerized electronic control system. All halls maintain controlled access on a twenty-four hour, seven-day-a-week basis. Card readers, which are located just outside the entrance of each residence hall, will only recognize and grant access to a properly encoded electronic access card. The door will unlock and then immediately re-lock when it closes. Access to each residence hall is limited to only those students that reside in Cardinal Village until 2:00 am. After 2:00 am, access is only granted to students who reside in that particular building. Residence Life reserves the right to temporarily deactivate access cards in situations, including but not limited to, the inappropriate usage of an access card or if a resident fails to complete all steps of a room assignment change.

Residents are required to keep their residence hall access card with them at all times. Repeated documented incidents of residents not possessing their access card may result in student conduct action.

Students may not loan their key or ID to anyone. This may be considered misuse of university property and subject to student conduct action. 

Residents who lose their access card need to get a new card at the Wimberly building. A $25.00 access card replacement fee will be assessed. 

Emergency exits should only be used in the event of an emergency or during a building evacuation. Entering and exiting residence halls should only occur through non-emergency doors, as these doors have access card capabilities.

Keys and Electronic Access

Texas Academy students will be issued dorm room keys upon check in at Cardinal Village. Cardinal Village Residence Hall cards allow students to enter the gates of Cardinal Village between 6:00 AM and curfew hours.

• Keys and Electronic Access Cards are the property of Cardinal Village and must be returned to Cardinal Village at the end of Tenant's occupancy.
• Duplication of keys is prohibited. Charges of $25.00 per key will be made for each key that is damaged. Charges of $50.00 will be made for each lost or damaged Electronic Access Card. Charges of $150.00 will be made to re-key the entire dorm room due to a lost key.
• Cardinal Village may, from time to time and without prior notice, change locks on an dorm room for security purposes. Tenants will be instructed to exchange keys at the leasing office. In the event of any missing dorm room keys, the tenant responsible shall pay for the lock change of the entire dorm room.
• Tenants who are locked out of their room will be charged a $5.00 lock-out fee prior to 10:00pm.
• Tenants who are locked out of their room after 10:00pm will be charged $25.00 fee.
• In the event of card loss or theft, the student must contact the Cardinal Village office immediately.

Students must remember to take their keys and Cardinal Village Residence Hall cards with them whenever they leave their rooms and to lock their room and dorm doors when in or out of their residence. NOTE: Dorm room doors lock automatically. Cardinal Village will assess a charge to reopen your room.

Courtesy Hours

In keeping with the academic goals and standards of students residing on campus, quiet hours will be maintained from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. in each residence hall. Courtesy hours are observed throughout the building 24 hours a day. This means that although quiet hours may not be in effect, residents are expected to maintain reasonable volume levels at all times, including hallway noise and slamming doors. Students are asked that noise not be heard outside of the room two doors down in any direction.

During finals week, extended quiet hours are observed to better facilitate a study atmosphere. Some residence halls may enforce daily 24-hour quiet hours during finals to enhance the academic environment of that building. 

No percussive or electronically amplified musical instruments may be played in University Housing with the exception of scheduled student activities in common areas organized and approved by the university and/or the Department of Housing and Residence Life.

When quiet hours are in effect, the corridors and breezeways are only open to through traffic. Loitering, socializing, and/or phone conversations within the corridors and breezeways during quiet hours is prohibited. Texas Academy students may not leave his/her assigned dorm after curfew.

Residents who do not adhere to quiet and courtesy hours may be subject to a fine or student conduct action up to and including eviction from University Housing. Each incidence is addressed on an individual basis. Additional disciplinary actions may be taken by the Texas Academy Administrative Staff if deemed necessary.

Curfew

The Texas Academy supports strong academic performance and student safety through the establishment of a curfew that corresponds to the City of Beaumont minor curfew ordinance. Students are required to be in their dorm room with the front door closed at curfew. After curfew (Sunday-Thursday), student activity in the halls or outside the building will be referred for disciplinary action. Students may not leave their dorm after curfew without written permission and/or accompaniment of the Texas Academy staff. Curfew extends to the use of laundry facilities and food delivery – everything must be finished by 11:00 PM.

Curfew hours are 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM Sunday through Thursday and 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM Friday and Saturday.

Curfew Checks and Procedures

The Texas Academy Resident Assistants (RAs) conduct curfew checks beginning at 11:00 PM Sunday through Thursday and 12:00 AM Friday and Saturday. Students must be in their own room for room check and are required to remain in their rooms (during and after) as the RA completes rounds. Students should not be taking a shower during curfew checks. Students are expected to be appropriately dressed for curfew check. This procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes; RAs are required to make visible contact with each student. 

Students who arrive late and thus violate curfew are expected to report to the Texas Academy Security Office and notify the RA staff immediately. In case of an emergency, students expecting to arrive late should call the Texas Academy Security Office or the Texas Academy Resident Assistant to report their location and anticipated time of arrival. 

If a student is absent from his/her residence hall room 30 minutes after curfew, the Texas Academy administration is called by the RA. The onsite officer is also notified. Texas Academy administration or the RA will call the student’s parents to notify them. If the parents are unable to explain the student’s absence, the Texas Academy administration notifies the Lamar University Police Department (LUPD).

Even if the student is located, all the above procedures will be followed.

All students who arrive even minutes after curfew are subject for disciplinary review (occurrence, incident, or infraction). Any infraction of the curfew check will be reported to Texas Academy Administrative Staff.

Overnight Absence from Campus and Weekend Travel

Absolutely no overnight checkouts Monday-Thursday will be permitted unless an emergency event has occurred. Parents may put in a request for a student to be out for special reasons, but this action does not warrant automatic approval. All requests will be evaluated and approved by the Texas Academy staff prior to a student leaving campus Monday-Thursday night. Approved requests are usually for college tours/visits, illness, death in the family, etc.

All students are required to be in the residence hall Sunday through Thursday night from 11:00 PM until 6:00 AM. In the event of an emergency or unavoidable circumstance that requires that a student leave campus overnight during the week, the parent or legal guardian must submit a check-out form and receive administrative approval.    

The Texas Academy considers student safety a critical responsibility and strictly enforces its weekend travel policy. A Travel Request form or email must be submitted to the Coordinator no later than 4:00 PM Wednesday afternoon prior to the requested absence. The Texas Academy accepts parent or guardian signed requests via email.  

All departing students must have their parents check them out on the digital travel request form by Wednesday at 4 pm. Students who are checked out on an overnight/weekend pass are not allowed to return to the dorm until the term of the pass expires. All students should text OUT on GroupMe by 8 pm on Friday so all students with a travel request are accounted for.   

Students for whom a checkout form is submitted are required to vacate the dorms as described above unless a written notification is submitted by the parent or legal guardian prior to noon on Friday and approved by Academy administration.  

Failure to follow this process will result in an occurrence. 

The Texas Academy and Lamar University assume no responsibility for students’ actions, accidents, travel issues, or incidents that are not Academy-sponsored.

Vacation Periods

When Lamar University closes for Thanksgiving, semester, and spring breaks, students are required beforehand to complete certain tasks in their room for safety and sanitary reasons, as shared by the Texas Academy staff and/or CV. Students are required to accomplish the required tasks and formally checkout with their RA; students failing to do this are subject to fines and/or disciplinary action. Students must vacate their dorm rooms in accordance with established vacation periods. Students are not permitted in the residence hall during vacation periods.

For some long weekends (Thanksgiving and Easter) all the Texas Academy students must vacate the residence hall for the entire long weekend.  Students are required to vacate the residence hall by 4:00 PM the day the weekend begins (ex. Thursday afternoon for a Friday holiday) and may return to the residence hall after 2:00 PM the day before classes resume. Long weekends will take the place of closed weekends during applicable months. See the Academic Calendar.

Visitation and Guests

Security for students is central to the Texas Academy residence life. Because most Texas Academy students are minors and often living away from home for the first time, additional precautionary measures are conducted by the Texas Academy for the students’ safety and privacy.  

 Texas Academy students are prohibited from entering non-Academy student(s) dorm/room. Texas Academy students must adhere to the following requirements:   

• Students may visit other same biological gender Texas Academy student dorms (never independents’ rooms or halls that do not belong to the Texas Academy. This includes girls visiting boys halls, and vice versa.  

• Visiting the opposite gender in the dorm is not allowed and will result in disciplinary action. 
• Anyone of the opposite sex may NOT be in the Texas Academy student’s room or dorm room. 

• Independent (non-Texas Academy student) may not enter the Texas Academy’s student’s dorm/room or hallway.  
• A Texas Academy student’s family, including siblings, may visit his/her room only when accompanied by a parent/guardian and the Texas Academy student.  

• Approval of a guest(s) visit must be received by Texas Academy Administrative Staff and Non-Cardinal Village individuals must check-in at the residence hall, leave a government-issued photo ID when checking in and be escorted at all times by the resident.  
• Residents are responsible for the behavior of their guests within the hall at all times. 

• All visitation must conclude prior to 11:00 PM Sunday through Thursday and 12:00 AM on Friday and Saturday. On Friday and Saturday nights, students are expected to be in their dorm room for curfew check and remain in their dorms for the remainder of the night. 

• No overnight visitation will be approved.  

• Any former student that no longer attends the Texas Academy will not be allowed to be in Morris Hall with other Texas Academy students. 

If enrollment in the Texas Academy necessitates a “mixed floor” of female and male students, every precaution will be taken to protect the privacy of the residents of that floor.

While it may occasionally be necessary for the Texas Academy or Lamar University staff to speak with students in their rooms, the Texas Academy appreciates the potential sensitivity of any meeting between a student and administrator or staff in the context of a student’s private room. Accordingly, such visitations are limited to emergency situations and will include more than one administrator or staff member. Students are strongly urged to report any impropriety or appearance of impropriety on the part of an administrator or staff member to the Dean of the Texas Academy. Sexual misconduct should be reported immediately to the Title IX coordinator. More information is available: https://www.lamar.edu/titleix/reporting-sexual-misconduct/index.html.

 End of Term Departure

The Texas Academy students are required to vacate their dorm room within 24 hours of their last final exam. All students should report their final exam and day of departure to the Coordinator as soon as their last final exam is scheduled. Students are strongly encouraged to check the Lamar University calendar and their course syllabi to plan for their end of term departure. Additionally, students are expected to notify the Texas Academy Office of their date of departure. Students are strongly urged to take their valuables with them when they leave the dorm for end-of-term or extended holidays; no personal items should be stored in the Texas Academy building – no exceptions. Students are required to comply with specific checkout procedures as established. No students may return to the dorms over the closed or holiday weekends.

Off-Limits and Restricted Areas

Certain areas on and near campus have been designated as restricted to ensure the safety and security of students. Students need to avoid: 

• the area west of University Drive, north of Lavaca, east of Rolfe Christopher, or south of Florida after 8:00 PM. The Texas Academy always urges students to behave responsibly and strongly recommends that students leave this area before dusk (even if this is prior to 8:00 pm.);
• restricted areas in the residence hall (e.g. an empty student dorm room, custodial closet, roof, closed stairwell, etc.);
• going into other residence halls on campus
  • independents’ (Non-Texas Academy student) rooms, dorm rooms (on or off-campus residences);
  • opposite sex halls, rooms, and/or dorm rooms in the Cardinal Village complex;
• any public area of the Cardinal Village complex during closed hours
• any public areas after the Texas Academy curfew; any public areas may be placed temporarily off limits at any time at the discretion of the Texas Academy staff;
• visiting the Texas Academy building when it is closed (before 8:00 AM or after 5:00 PM M-F, and weekends) without a Texas Academy staff member present.

Emergency

In the event of an emergency 911 should be called (409-880-7777 - on campus). Morris Hall Front Desk and the Texas Academy staff should be contacted immediately. For non-emergencies, students should call the Lamar University Police Department at 409-880-8307 (on campus).

Family Emergency

Parents and students should contact the Texas Academy Administration in the case of the death or serious injury of an immediate family member (i.e., parent/guardian, sibling, or grandparent). It is the students’ responsibility to notify all appropriate faculty members of the emergency. A Weekend Travel Request form must be completed and signed by a parent/guardian before a student is permitted to leave campus. 

Emergency Management and Planning

The Texas Academy adheres to all Lamar University and Lamar University Police Department safety expectations and protocols.  The following information and plan outlines are available through the LUPD webpage and updated as needed.

• Active Shooter Plan
• Hurricane and Business Continuity Plan
• Hazard Communication Plan
• Comprehensive Safety Manual and Plan

ConnectED

Lamar University has contracted with ConnectED to provide a state-of-the art, web-based emergency notification system. The system allows Lamar University to contact faculty, staff, and students quickly with news and information in the event of an emergency. The system is capable of contacting individuals on cellular, home or office phones, voice mail, and by text message, email and TTY/TTD. The ConnectED system will call two phone numbers and send messages to two e-mail addresses from what is posted in the student information systems. Students should add their cell phone numbers to the system. Students should also add their personal email address to the system. Students are encouraged to verify their telephone and email information in the Lamar University system. More information may be found at www.lamar.edu/police/services.  

Learn how to update your Self-Service Banner (PDF). It is imperative that every student, faculty, and staff member receives these emergency notifications. So, it's very important that you keep this information up to date. More information may be found at http://universitypolice.lamar.edu/services/index.html.

Emergency Management, Inclement Weather, and Evacuation

In the event that inclement weather or a mandatory evacuation is announced, text, email, and automated phone call notices will immediately be sent out to students via the ConnectEd Emergency Notification System. The Texas Academy is in full compliance with Lamar University’s evacuation plan as approved by Emergency Management, local, state, and federal agencies.  Note: Media services will announce both the cancellation and the resumption of classes and campus opening/closures. 

If necessary, evacuation orders will be issued by the University President’s Office. This information will be relayed to students via email, phone calls, and/or text messages. Residence Life Staff will notify residents of an evacuation order throughout all halls. All rooms will be inspected for residence during a door-to-door walk-through. Students residing on campus must complete the sign-out process, as established by Residence Life, prior to evacuating the campus.

Students are advised to contact their parent(s) or guardian(s) upon evacuation with their current location and once more to communicate their current status. Note: Parents should not contact the University as it will be more difficult as Lamar is preparing for evacuation.

 The Texas Academy and Lamar University are not responsible for students living off campus.

Texas Academy Administrative staff will also provide additional details to students and parents through email.

Important Reminders:

1. Student should remember to take with them:
   1. Prescription and Over the Counter Medications
   2. Identification (Drivers License, LU ID, etc.)
   3. Credit/Debit Card and/or Cash
   4. Laptop and other important electronic devises
   5. Sleeping bag, blanket, pillow, sheets, and towel
   6. Toiletries
   7. Minimum of 3 days of clothing and comfortable shoes
2. Students must log into their Blackboard accounts and review any pertinent coursework deadlines or updated notifications from professors.
3. Lamar will not provide emergency shelter on campus during a hurricane or storm that requires a mandatory evacuation.
4. Students are strongly encouraged to take personal vehicles and/or ride with friends to evacuate from campus. The Texas Academy and Lamar University are not responsible for vehicles left on campus.
5. Students evacuating with the University will need to bring a pillow, blanket, towel, sheets, clothing, etc..
   1. Any food obtained at the evacuation facility’s dining services will be charged to the student’s account.
   2. Please note sleeping arrangements may include resting on a gym floor. Additionally, electricity may be lost due to the storm.
   3. Conditions may be uncomfortable.
6. Students are allowed to bring one bag for all personal belongings. This bag should be a size that sits comfortably on the student’s lap. Residence Life staff will accompany students to the evacuation facility and manage all arrangements while there.
7. No alcohol or pets allowed.
8. Students are expected to adhere to the Lamar University Student Code of Conduct at all times. All violations will be reported and managed by Texas Academy Administrative staff as well as the Associate Vice President and Dean of Students.
9. In the event of a mandatory evacuation over an extended period of time, students and parents will need to make arrangements for transportation home (permanent residence) at his or her own expense.

Students will be notified when it is deemed safe to return to campus.

 Note: Students and parents are reminded to inform the Texas Academy staff immediately of any email changes and required to update the student contact info within Self-Service Banner. Parents without email access must give the Texas Academy administration current and viable telephone numbers for immediate contact.

 Building Emergency Evacuation

Under the supervision and guidance of The Risk Management Department, all students should make themselves familiar with the location of stairs and emergency exits within buildings they enter and/or frequent in case of emergency or fire. Below are the standard procedures for use in case of fire and standard emergency evacuation instructions applicable to most campus classrooms and administrative buildings that do not have more than two floors.

 Procedure in Case of Fire

1. Upon discovery of a fire in a building, activate the nearest fire alarm pull station. If no fire alarm is available, call 911 and immediately notify occupants of the building to evacuate the building.
2. If the fire has not spread from its point of origin, attempt to extinguish the fire using a fire extinguisher. However, always remember Safety of Life is the primary concern.
3. Students and employees should not attempt to extinguish a fire in a laboratory or a chemical fire unless they know what chemicals are involved and have been trained in the correct procedures and types of extinguishers to be used for fighting such fires. Safety of Life remains the primary concern.
4. Do not reenter an evacuated building until authorities have given the all clear.

Other Instructions

If employees or students have knowledge of what chemicals are present at the location of a fire, or of other hazards in the vicinity of a fire, they should tell a Lamar University police officer or fire department personnel on the scene and remain available to give further assistance if needed. 

Building Emergency Evacuations - For use in one- and two-story campus buildings without special evacuation plans.

Upon receipt of emergency instructions to evacuate the building, or upon the sounding of the Fire Alarm, all persons shall:

1. Walk to the nearest usable exit and exit the building.
2. If on the second floor, walk to the nearest stairwell. If the door to the stairwell is hot, or smoke or other hazardous condition is encountered or visible, proceed to an alternate stairwell.  Walk down the stairs and exit the building.  DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS.  They may lose electrical power and trap you or may automatically open into a fire or other hazardous situation.
3. If you have information about persons in the building who may need assistance, or about hazardous conditions existing in the building, report to a Lamar University police officer, Fire Department personnel or other emergency coordinator on the scene.
4. Proceed well clear of the building and, if the problem is localized and not campus-wide, assemble in the nearest parking lot or other open space so a roll may be taken to determine whether anyone known to have been in the building is not accounted for.
5. The designated areas for rescue assistance for persons with special needs or serious injuries are the stairwells of the building. Stairwells at ends of the building should be used preferentially over others.  Provide all possible assistance to persons with special needs to reach the designated rescue assistance areas.  Do not attempt to carry such persons down the stairs unless you have been trained and authorized.  Inform a Lamar University police officer or Fire Department personnel on the scene of the location and number of persons needing rescue.

Morris Hall Fire Evacuation Procedure - In Case of Fire, call LU Police at 409-880-8311 and activate the nearest fire alarm if it is safely accessible. 

If you are in your room:

1. Feel the door for heat.
   1. If there is not heat, place a damp towel across your nose and mouth.
2. Close your bedroom and hallway door.
3. Evacuate the door quickly and calmly.
4. Use the stairs only.
5. Exit the building through the fire gates located on the Cheek Street entrance.
   1. Proceed across Georgia Street to the small park (grassy area near the President’s House) and gather with the Texas Academy students.
   2. Your RA will take roll.
   3. If a student is missing, inform the RA.
6. DO NOT REENTER the building until the fire or police departments give “the all clear”.
7. If the door is hot, soak a towel and place it against the bottom of your door(s).
   1. Go to the bedroom and open your blinds to signal for help. DO NOT OPEN THE WINDOW unless you can exit through it on the ground floor and proceed to the roll call point.

Disability Resource Center

Lamar University is committed to providing equitable access to learning opportunities for all students. The Disability Resource Center (DRC) is located in the Communication building, room 105. Office staff collaborate with students who have disabilities to provide and/or arrange reasonable accommodation and services. If you have, or think you may have, a disability (e.g. mental health, attentional, learning, chronic health, sensory, or physical), please contact the DRC at 409-880-8347 or drc@lamar.edu to arrange a confidential appointment with the Director of the DRC to explore possible options regarding equitable access and reasonable accommodations. 

Students who register with the DRC and have a current letter requesting reasonable accommodations, we encourage you to contact your instructor early in the semester to review how the accommodations will be applied in the course. It is your responsibility to communicate any accommodations with your professors.

Health Insurance

All Texas Academy students are required to have health insurance for the duration of their enrollment. Proof of insurance must be provided prior to arrival at the Texas Academy. Lamar University offers an academic health plan (approximately $3,550 annually). Academic Health Plans is a provider of health insurance for Lamar University and Lamar Institute of Technology students. Their web site will provide the most current prices and coverage levels. 

For more information and/or to apply, please visit the Student Health Center webpage or call the Lamar University Student Health Center at (409) 880-8466.

The Student Health Center no longer files commercial insurance claims except Academic Health Plans and Tricare, a military insurance plan. If you do not have one of these two insurances, the Student Health Center can provide you with a statement which you can use to file a claim on your insurance. 

Lamar University Identification Card/Meal Card (Cardinal One Card)

The Cardinal One Card is the University ID Card, Meal Plan, and Debit Card for One Account. Students must activate their Lamar University email account and check it regularly to receive Lamar University financial information from Cardinal One Card and the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. Lost Cardinal One Cards must be replaced immediately. If a card is lost or stolen, the student should contact the Lamar University Police Department. Replacement cards are issued for a fee in the Wimberly Student Services Building.

New students may secure their Cardinal One card remotely via Self-Service Banner or in person (Wimberly Building). Students will receive the card in the mail in approximately 7-14 business days to address on file with Lamar University.

The student ID card should be carried at all times. Students are not allowed to loan their ID cards or borrow another student’s ID card. Housing and Residence Life and/or any other University staff or official may request proof of identity of any person on University property. Failure to identify yourself to a staff member upon request is a violation of university rules and regulations.

If any person is caught misusing the card for identification purposes, the card may be confiscated by University Police or other appropriate university personnel and the student may be subject to student conduct action by the Dean of Students or University Police and Texas Academy Administrative staff. Misuse of the card includes but is not limited to: using the card to gain entry into a university residence hall or event that the person is not eligible to enter, loaning the card to someone else, or altering the card in any manner. Confiscation of the card will not affect any remaining cash balance in the student's account.

Mail Delivery

The University Mail Center, located in the Carl Parker Building, room 101, is a full service federal postal facility. The University Mail Center is the official drop-off/pick-up point for all federal and express courier mail/parcels. Other independent couriers deliver parcels, next day air, and second day air based on their delivery policies.

Mailboxes are in the main lobby of the University Mail Center facility in the Carl Parker building. Mailboxes are available for rent for a fee of $15 per year. Mailbox rental fees are paid in the Cashier's Office, located in the Wimberly Student Services building. Box rental fees are non-refundable. When renewing your mailbox rental, please bring your payment receipt to the Mail Center window salesclerk to update yearly records. The Mail Center is closed on weekends and federal holidays.

All Texas Academy students staying in the dorm are strongly encouraged to rent a post office box on campus at the beginning of the year. No mail can be delivered to the Texas Academy students at Cardinal Village or through the Texas Academy post office box.

Meal Plan

Meal Plans are available to all students at Lamar University. Students living on campus are required to purchase a meal plan. The various options and costs are on the Residence Life website. In general, each plan has two components:

• Dining Hall meals
  • Dining Hall meals can only be used at the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall, located next to Cardinal Village, which offers all-you-can-eat food-court style service. Dining Dollars can be used at retail locations.
• Dining Dollars, a declining balance cash account.
  • Dining dollars may be used at Papa John's Pizza in Monroe Hall, Chick-fil-A, The Market (various locations), Panda Express, Starbucks, and Tiny House BBQ.
  • Dining Dollars do not carry over and must be exhausted in the semester for which they are purchased.

                        *Additional Dining Dollars and meals can be purchased if necessary.

Residents choose their meal plan when they complete their housing application. Residents have until the 12th day of class to change their meal plan at the beginning of each semester. Unused Dining Hall meals and Dining Dollars do not carry over to the next semester. If unused, they are forfeited. Residents may add Dining Hall meals or Dining Dollars to their meal plan if they are running short.

For more information, refer to the Dining Services and Housing and Meal Plan Rates sites.

Medical Leave of Absence

Students or family members with medical problems requiring an extended absence from the residence hall may request a medical leave of absence from the Texas Academy. This request requires the written authorization of a parent/guardian and the approval of the Texas Academy Administrative staff prior to departure from the residence hall. In an emergency, parents/guardians may request medical leave on a student’s behalf. If deemed necessary, this information will be shared with the Dean of Students at Lamar University.

 Student Health Center

Any students who become ill or are injured during the day, excluding emergencies, may independently visit the Lamar University Student Health Center. The Health Center hours are 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday through Thursday; 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Friday. The Student Health Center is closed on weekends, holidays, or after hours.

In the event of an emergency, students on campus should call the LU Police Department at 409-880-7777. An officer will evaluate the situation and determine the appropriate action, such as calling an ambulance for transport to the local emergency room of the student's choice.

Students and their parents are expected to immediately report any medical conditions and/or medications as they are diagnosed and/or prescribed in order to update the student’s medical information.

A variety of medical services and telemedicine appointments are available.

Confidential mental health counseling services at the Student Health Center (SHC) are available to currently enrolled students of Lamar University and Lamar Institute of Technology. A licensed counselor provides counseling sessions by appointment only, except in emergency cases. SHC counselors utilize a solution-focused model. They work closely with the SHC medical providers for medication consultations if needed.

Students in need of counseling or medical services during these times are urged to contact the Student Health Center. The Texas Academy is NOT a mental health care facility, nor does it offer those services. Students may also contact one of the local medical or counseling facilities should contact their parent(s)/guardian(s) about their plans.

 For any Texas Academy student who chooses to discuss any confidential or private concerns with Texas Academy Administrative staff, a minimum of 2 staff members must be present. The student will be referred to the Student Health Center as this information is required to be reported.

The Student Health Center also operates as a Class D (clinic) pharmacy, offering low-cost medication and supplies to LU and LIT students. Many medications ordered by our practitioners are available within the clinic pharmacy. (antibiotics, eye creams and drops, anti-fungal medications, non-narcotic pain relievers, and a few oral contraceptives)

 For services rendered, charges will be billed to the student’s account and must be paid in full to limit holds being placed on their account.

Note: Lamar does not file on any insurance except TriCare and the Academic Health Plan. There will be a statement available on the Patient Portal that will have all the necessary information for filing on your health insurance. Some health plans support online filing, eliminating the need for printing and mailing a claim. 

Office Conduct: Meeting with Administrators

Administrators are available for appointments during regular office hours. While the administrators’ priority is always the welfare of the Texas Academy students, professional priorities may mandate that a student will have to wait to speak to a particular administrator. If a question will require more than five minutes to address, an appointment with the administrator should be scheduled.

If a student would like to meet with an Academy Administrative staff person, he or she must request to schedule an appointment. Making an appointment in advance via email is the most efficient way to arrange a meeting.

Office Expectations

The Texas Academy workroom, offices, equipment and supplies are reserved only for staff. Students may not enter or use materials or supplies without explicit instructions from a staff person. Students must be supervised by a staff member for all usage. 

Students needing copies must go to the Library or Setzer Student Center.

Students are expected to respect the privacy of staff members as well as other students within the Academy. Students may not enter a staff person’s office alone or without prior consent.   

Office telephones are for administrators and staff only, unless for an emergency.

If a student does not adhere to any of these requests and/or other direction provided by Texas Academy Administrative staff, disciplinary measures will be taken if necessary. 

At times, meetings may mandate that some/all administrators are absent from the offices. During those times, the offices will be closed, but will reopen immediately upon their return.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Texas Academy students and parents should understand that the Texas Academy/Lamar University has a zero-tolerance policy on illegal substance use and will not compromise on this issue. Students and parents are strongly urged to consult the Lamar University Student Handbook and Lamar University Student Code of Conduct for further details.

Behavioral Expectations

Texas Academy students are expected to be fully engaged in all aspects of the program, whether living on campus or off campus. Failure to meet academic, behavior, attendance, and/or service-learning components of the program is an indication that the student may not be ready for the advanced responsibilities required of a successful Texas Academy student and could potentially be released back to their high school.      

Alcoholic Beverages and Illegal Drugs

The Texas Academy and Lamar University promotes and endeavors to ensure an alcohol-free, drug-free community and adheres to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act. Possession and use of alcohol are prohibited; nor are students permitted to be in possession of empty alcohol containers. The purchase, possession, distribution or use of controlled/illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia is prohibited. The abuse of any other chemical substance is prohibited.

A student in the same room or car or other similar place in which alcohol, empty alcohol containers, illegal drugs, or drug paraphernalia may be considered to be in “possession,” whether or not he/she is using alcohol or drugs. Students are not permitted to be in any establishment in which alcohol is the primary form of refreshment or entertainment (e.g., a bar), an establishment in which the sale or distribution of alcohol is the primary business (e.g., a liquor store), or an establishment in which the sale of drug paraphernalia is the primary business (e.g., a “head shop”). No student is permitted to enter or be on the premises of any fraternity or sorority house or grounds at any time. 

Events

Only the Texas Academy students are permitted to attend the Texas Academy functions. Dances are the only exception; students are limited to one guest with the permission of the Texas Academy staff.

Academy Sponsored Events

Unless otherwise stated, any associated costs of academy sponsored events are the responsibility of the participating students. Students on probation or with disciplinary issues may not be allowed to participate in Academy sponsored events. Students may drive their own vehicles or an approved LU vehicle to Texas Academy sponsored events with parental consent. 

Parents/Guardians of minors and students of at least 18 years of age are required to sign the “Activity Release and Indemnity Agreement” form before a student will be permitted to participate in academy sponsored events. In addition, parents/guardians must complete emergency contact and “Medical Information” forms. These forms remain on file in the Texas Academy office. Academy administrators carry a copy of these documents during academy sponsored events.

Academy Sponsored Events Conduct

Texas Academy students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with Lamar University’s mission as an educational institution. As listed in the Lamar University Student Handbook (https://www.lamar.edu/students/student-handbook.html), prohibited conduct includes but is not limited to the following:

Campus disruptive activities or disorderly conduct on Lamar University-owned or controlled property or at a Lamar University-sponsored or supervised function that inhibit or interfere with the educational responsibility of the Lamar University community or the Lamar University’s social-educational activities shall include but not be limited to: using abusive, indecent, profane or vulgar lan­guage; making offensive gestures or displays that tend to incite a breach of the peace; perpetrating fights, assaults, acts of sexual violence, abuse, or threats; or evincing some obviously offensive manner or committing an act that causes a person to feel threatened or the reputation of the Texas Academy is jeopardized or impugned. Such prohibition includes disorder­ly classroom conduct that obstructs, interferes with, inhibits and/or disrupts teaching and/or related classroom activities.

Restroom Policy

All students are required to use the restroom designated for his or her biological birth. Students may not enter restrooms of the opposite sex at anytime for any reason.

Harassment

Lamar University and the Texas Academy endeavor to create and maintain an environment conducive to the ideals that govern the institution’s educational mission. Students are expected to accept diversity, to affirm the dignity of every human being, and to promote an intellectual and social environment that encourages the free and civil discovery and dissemination of knowledge. Fundamental responsibilities speak to an individual’s basic right to freedom of speech, and any expression of sexism, racism, hatred, intimidation, and prejudice is inconsistent with Lamar University’s ideals and objectives.

Lamar University believes that freedom of thought, innovation and creativity are fundamental characteristics of a community of scholars. To promote a safe learning environment, the university has a special responsibility to build a diverse community, instill a global perspective in its students, and nurture sensitivity, tolerance and mutual respect. Discrimination against or harassment of individuals based on race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, veterans' status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression is inconsistent with the purposes of the university.

Persons at Lamar University will not be deprived of their civil rights on the campus or in connection with a university-sponsored activity. Persons who harass or discriminate against another person are subject to disciplinary sanctions up to and including removal from the university.

Hazing/Bullying

Hazing means any intentional, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution. The term includes but is not limited to:

• any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity;
• any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
• any activity involving consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance which subjects the student to an unreasonable risk or harm, or which adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;
• any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame, or humiliation, or that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the institution rather than submit to acts described in this subsection;
• any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task which involves a violation of the Penal Code or Code of Student Conduct. 

Personal Hazing Offense
A person commits an offense if the person:

• engages in hazing;
• solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in engaging in hazing;
• intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly permits hazing to occur; or
• has firsthand knowledge of the planning of a specific hazing incident involving a student in an educational institution, or firsthand knowledge that a specific hazing incident has occurred, and knowingly fails to report said knowledge in writing to the Dean of Students or other appropriate official of the institution. 

Language

Texas Academy students are expected to exemplify the highest standards of courtesy and respect for the Lamar University community. Use of obscene, vulgar, abusive, indecent, discriminatory, and/or disrespectful language/comments by the Texas Academy students toward any member of faculty, staff, fellow student, or any circumstance, is prohibited.

Non-Compliance with Staff or Policy

Students are expected to cooperate with the Texas Academy and Lamar University staff who are acting in the performance of their duties. Students should:

• comply with an official summons or comply with instructions or requests from a the Texas Academy or Lamar University official, including all residence hall staff, acting in the performance of his/her duties;
• attend and schedule or appear for a disciplinary appointment with a Texas Academy or Lamar University staff member, after being so notified;
• be cooperative or use appropriate language when interacting with a Texas Academy or Lamar University staff member;
• be available when a Texas Academy or Lamar University staff member who is trying to contact him/her; or
• follow proper procedures as defined in the Texas Academy and Lamar University Handbooks.

Public Displays of Affection (PDA)

The Texas Academy expects students to conduct themselves in a manner that reasonable adults would find appropriate and inoffensive (e.g., handholding or a friendly hug is acceptable). Students are always expected to be respectful of others and to comply promptly with any person’s request to cease a public display of affection.

Required Attendance

While the Texas Academy offers several discretionary events and activities, there are also events and activities that are central to the growth of the community. Attendance is mandatory. These include, but are not limited to:

• Weekly Community Meetings
• Service Leadership requirement
• Student Council Meetings (for StuCo members)
• Club Meetings (for club members)
• Commencement & Rehearsal
• Other meetings and events as deemed mandatory by the Administration

Students are reminded that enrollment in the Texas Academy allows students more “out of class” time than is traditionally available to high school-aged students and therefore extracurricular meetings should not pose a hardship.  Remember, a Texas Academy students first priority is his/her academic success.

Sexual Misconduct 

The Texas State University System (TSUS) and Lamar University are committed to creating and maintaining educational communities in which each individual is respected, appreciated and valued. Lamar University diligently strives to foster an environment that permits and encourages everyone to perform at their highest levels in academia. Lamar University’s focus on tolerance, openness, and respect is key in providing every member of our community with basic human dignity free from harassment, exploitation, intimidation or other sexual misconduct. 

Sexual Misconduct is a broad term encompassing a range of non-consensual sexual activity or unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature. The term includes but is not limited to sexual assault, sexual exploitation, sexual intimidation, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Sexual misconduct can be committed by men or women, strangers or acquaintances, and can occur between or among people of the same or opposite sex.

Lamar University is firmly committed to maintaining an educational environment free from all forms of sex discrimination. Sexual Misconduct is a form of sex discrimination and will not be tolerated. Lamar University promotes prompt reporting of all types of Sexual Misconduct and timely and fair resolution of Sexual Misconduct complaints. Lamar University will take prompt and appropriate action to eliminate Sexual Misconduct when such is committed, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects. See Title IX Sexual Misconduct Policy.

Lamar University offers multiple ways to report sexual misconduct. Reports can be made anonymously and confidentially; choose the method that is most comfortable for you.   Students may learn more about Frequently Asked Questions, Complainant and Respondent Rights submit an Incident online.

Expectations of Texas Academy Parents 

Parents are an integral part of the success of their student, and are encouraged to discuss with their student progress, achievements, as well as any concerns.  

This includes discussing time management, grades, and class options with the student in advance of their academic advising appointment.  

The Texas Academy staff per FERPA will consult only with the student regarding academic progress including scheduling.  

Parents may not request their child's transcript.   

If a parent has questions, unless the student is present and provides their permission to discuss certain information in detail, we will only be able to provide general information.    

While parents certainly will have opinions about what classes should be taken and in what order, the Academic Counselor has the best understanding of class availability, degree plans, as they relate to the long-term goals of the student. Every effort will be made to support the students’ pursuit of that goal. Parents should share their thoughts and opinions with their student who will make the final decision along with the guidance of the Academic Counselor.  

Parents are encouraged to invest time and interest in their student's progress and promote positive communication with their student regarding updates to course work or grades received via Blackboard and/or Self-Service Banner. Note: Unlike a traditional high school, some professors may not post grades within a timely manner. 

Unscheduled meetings and heavy-handed demands made by the parents will not be tolerated. The student will be treated like any other undergraduate in the context of scheduling and grades. Conflicts about grade progression and scheduling options should be handled at home.  

Parents will be immediately notified of any discipline issues within the Texas Academy or as reported by a professor. Again, details of grades cannot be shared per FERPA, but issues like class attendance, inattentiveness in class, or missing mandatory Texas Academy events are within the scope of items FERPA allows staff to share. 

Parent behavior has the potential to negatively affect the student if protocol is not followed. For example, the following will lead to an occurrence on the students record: 

• Not completing the check-out form for your residential student by Wednesday at 4:00pm 

• Not submitting forms that require parent signature by the assigned deadline 

While students are in control of their academic progress, parents are encouraged to participate in certain aspects of student life including chairing social events, fundraising, chaperoning prom, following, commenting, and liking social media posts, and submitting news for publication in the newsletter and social media. The form to indicate your desire to participate may be found on LU Hub.  

Parents may not request their child's transcript.   

If a parent has questions, unless the student is present and provides their permission to discuss certain information in detail, we will only be able to provide general information.    

Parents are encouraged to invest time and interest in their student's activities, and promote positive communication with their student regarding updates to course work or grades received via Blackboard and/or Self Service Banner. Note: Unlike a traditional high school, some professors may not post grades within a timely manner. 

Additional Resources and Contacts

Report to the Title IX Coordinator(s)

Brenda Dixon
Human Resources Compliance Officer
Phone: (409) 880-8373 or (409) 880-8375
brenda.dixon@lamar.edu 

Helene Thill
Associate Athletic Director
Phone: (409) 880-8333
helene.thill@lamar.edu

Dr. Ginger Gummelt

Director of Social Work

Phone: (409) 880-8568

ginger.gummelt@lamar.edu

Other Resources

Texas Academy Student Lounge and Classroom/Activity Room Guidelines

The Texas Academy Student Lounge is a privilege for current Texas Academy students only. Students must adhere to the following:

• Be courteous and mindful of other students and staff within the building.
• Conduct self accordingly and follow courtesy/quiet hours as posted.
• Adhere to requests made by any Texas Academy Administrative Staff.
• Maintain the cleanliness and structure of common spaces; clean up after yourself.

 It is the responsibility of the students to assist and maintain the student spaces in neat and sanitary conditions. Failure to dispose of trash and/or food may result in suspension of use. Texas Academy students are encouraged to visit the Texas Academy Office once a day to check for announcements.

Theft

Theft is prohibited by federal, state, and local law, and students are referred to the Lamar University Student Handbook for additional information.

The Texas Academy recommends that students and parents of students obtain personal property insurance, that students do not bring valuables to campus and always lock their room.

Tobacco Products

Lamar University is a smoke-free, tobacco-free, and electronic cigarette-free campus. Use of tobacco products is not permitted on University premises.  For more information view the LU Tobacco Policy online.

Vandalism

Vandalism is prohibited. Vandalism is the willful, malicious, or careless actions which result in damage or defacement of student possessions, rooms, furniture, any part of the residence hall, or property of any kind belonging to or located on the Lamar University campus.  Students responsible for vandalism will be met with appropriate disciplinary measures and actions.  Depending on the severity of the issue, additional Lamar University staff may be involved; such as but not limited to the Dean of Students and/or LUPD.

Violations of Law

Any acts, which constitute a violation of federal, state, civil or criminal laws or city ordinances, except for minor traffic violations, will result in Texas Academy disciplinary action. The Texas Academy disciplinary action is not contingent upon and may precede legal action.

Lamar University Student Code of Conduct

For a complete list of general provisions, prohibited conduct, administration of student conduct, and appeals process please visit the Lamar University Student Code of Conduct page.

Texas Academy students are expected to practice self-discipline and to assume a shared responsibility for ensuring the development of a safe, comfortable, and harmonious living-learning community in Cardinal Village. Those students who repeatedly violate minor policies or zero-tolerance policies may be dismissed. Throughout the disciplinary process, the Texas Academy staff takes great care to ensure that students receive due process as per the Lamar University Code of Conduct and Student Regulations.    

Any member of the University may file a written complaint of alleged violation to the Texas Academy Coordinator (or designee, i.e. Resident Assistants). Depending on the circumstances relative to the situation, alleged violations will be addressed through an informal discipline meeting, a formal discipline meeting, or referral to the Academy’s Dean.  

Confidentiality 

All student disciplinary action is considered confidential by the Texas Academy Administration. Attempts to discover another student’s sanctions or repetitive speculation regarding another student’s disciplinary status is disrespectful toward the student and detrimental to the Texas Academy community  

Parents/Guardians will be contacted when students are written up for infractions of policy. Parents/Guardians will be kept informed of any judicial proceedings or sanctions as they occur. 

Discipline Philosophy 

The rules and guidelines set forth in this handbook were established by the governing board of the Academy to support academic success, personal development, leadership training, and safety. They are intended to serve as a guideline rather than an inclusive listing. The Texas Academy students are expected to demonstrate maturity and responsibility during their enrollment in the Academy and conduct themselves in a manner consistent with that privilege. The Texas Academy believes in pro-active rather than reactive discipline. The goal is not to punish but to reinforce that the student is responsible for his/her own behavior and that those actions frequently impact a wider community. 

Behavioral Sanctions 

The following list is an attempt to specify consequences for more obvious types of violations and should not be considered all-inclusive without flexibility in individual circumstances. The Texas Academy Administration reserves the right to determine and assess appropriate disciplinary action. See behavioral sanctions below. Administration also reserves the right to determine disciplinary action for violations of policy not listed. Parents will be notified of any disciplinary infractions for which their student has been found responsible. The Texas Academy administration will also inform parents of any infractions that are considered illegal, including the use and possession of tobacco products. There is no appeal process for any violation or sanction issued to the student. 

All occurrences, incidents, and infractions are recorded and restart each new academic year. 

After two occurrences, students will be assigned up to two incidences. 

After two incidences, students will be assigned up to two infractions. 

If a student reaches an infraction, the Texas Academy administrative committee will convene and review for dismissal.  

If the problem or issue is severe, and is not listed below, the student may accrue an infraction immediately and the committee will convent and review for dismissal. 

All sanctions assigned and consequences given are at the discretion of the Texas Academy staff.  

OCCURRENCES– may result in loss of privileges, a verbal warning, or write up; all more serious infractions are subject to the Texas Academy internal disciplinary actions/sanctions and discipline process.  

The following constitute occurrences, but are not limited to the list below: 

• failure to report an absence within the alloted time frame
• missing or arriving late to mandatory Texas Academy/LU functions (classes, meetings, Humanities Seminar, study hall, etc.); 
• noise violations; 
• late for room check – only the first time (may be elevated to the next level incident depending upon severity of violation); 
• profanity, rude behavior, vulgar, indecent, or obscene language, expressions and actions, whether non-verbal, verbal, or written; 
• failure to meet room inspection standards within 24 hours of warning; 
• furniture removal; 
• failure to comply with any rules, guidelines or regulations in the Texas Academy; 
• pet policy violations; 
• any violation of Cardinal Village and/or Housing and Residence Life policies (may be elevated to the a higher level incident or  depending upon severity of violation) 
• unauthorized activities in the hall: rollerblading, bikes, other sporting activities, etc.; 
• safety and security violations: incense, candles, open flames, unauthorized electrical appliances, failure to evacuate, possession of combustible materials, etc.; and, 
• multiple cumulative violations that occur frequently and/or on an ongoing basis (less serious). 
• Weekend travel 
  • Failure to check out on time 
  • Remaining in dorms after being checked out 
  • Leaving dorms without being checked out 

INCIDENCES– may result in a write up, suspension of activity, or expulsion from the Texas Academy; all more serious infractions are subject to the Texas Academy internal disciplinary actions/sanctions and discipline process. 
 

The following constitute incidences, but are not limited to the list below: 

• not completing the required service hours
• late (for room check (2nd time); 
• missing or arriving late to mandatory Texas Academy/LU functions (classes, meetings, Humanities Seminar, study hall, etc.); 

• inappropriate behavior towards the Texas Academy/Lamar University staff: rudeness, obscenities, muttering, online blogs, etc.; 
• disorderly conduct – as defined in the LU Housing Contract; 
• unauthorized use of Lamar University facilities: tapping coaxial cable or phone lines, running data lines, etc.; 
• hitting, punching, wrestling, pushing, slapping, biting, or other actions, which may be construed as fighting prohibited; 
• violation of computer policy; 

• solicitation: selling, running a business, etc.; 
• dishonesty – lying, deception, misrepresentation, etc.; 
• violation of the Texas Academy academic or behavior probation; 
• unauthorized visitation by anyone for any reason; 
• entering or exiting the building via a non-designed entrance or exit: windows, side doors after hours, etc.; 
• multiple cumulative violations that occur frequently and/or on an ongoing basis  
• fraudulent use of Lamar issued identification card; and, 
• bashing or slandering any student, staff, or member of Lamar University and the Texas Academy. 

INFRACTIONS – may result in suspension or expulsion from the Texas Academy; all severe infractions are subject to the Texas Academy internal disciplinary actions/sanctions and discipline process. 

The following constitute infractions, but are not limited to the list below: 

• excessive absences
• interference or disruption of the educational mission of Lamar University: inappropriate behavior as defined by Lamar University Code of Conduct; 
• safety and security violations: incendiary devices, possessing firearms or prohibited weapons, fireworks or lasers, arson, propping outside doors, tampering with fire alarms or other safety equipment or systems, etc.; 

• curfew violations; 
• activities that endanger the lives of self or others; 
• vacation and closed weekend policy violations; 
• objects thrown into or from balconies, windows, etc.; 
• vandalism – willful & malicious destruction/defacing of property;; 

• falsification of the Texas Academy/LU documents – no student may fill out forms for parents at any time for any reason; 
• harassing or threatening (by any means) to take unlawful action against any person, causing or intending to cause annoyance or alarm (see Student Handbook Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Denial of Civil Rights Policy); 
• any type of hostility, especially violent hostility; 
• providing false information to or about Lamar University faculty and staff; 
• attending parties or visiting sorority or fraternity houses unauthorized for minors; 

• violation of confidentiality of any student, especially as it relates to a personal concern; 
• any safety violation 
• non-compliance with LUPD or RA or any Texas Academy staff member; 
• unauthorized access; roofs, opposite sex halls, atriums, climbing wall, etc.; 
• possession or use of tobacco products. Tobacco products include cigarettes, cigars, blunts, bidis, hookahs, chewing tobacco, dip, smokeless tobacco, snuff, electronic cigarettes or any other items containing or classified as such; and, 
• academic dishonesty: plagiarism, self-plagiarism, cheating on tests, etc. 

More serious infractions will follow the Lamar University’s Code of Conduct Policy Administration Policy 3.00: https://www.lamar.edu/students/academic-support/code-of-conduct.html 

and will be handled by the Texas Academy administration and staff, in conjunction with Lamar University’s Office of Student Engagement. 

ZERO-TOLERANCE POLICIES – Zero-tolerance means that certain actions will not be tolerated under any circumstances and violations could result in an immediate dismissal: 

• Possession and/or use of alcohol, illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia  
• Acts that could constitute felonies or serious misdemeanors 
• Repeated violation of policies 
• Any unlawful act as defined by TX State Law and LU 
• Guests: Residents may receive a sanction appropriate to the violation(s) of their guests. 

The Texas Academy staff has the discretion to remove student privileges to attend events, activities, and all other the Texas Academy sponsored events experiences based on the severity of issues.  

Examples -  

• A pattern of less serious infractions could result in loss of privileges and activities, such as academy sponsored events 
• A pattern of more serious infractions could result in disciplinary action comparable to LU’s Code of Conduct policy, and loss of academy sponsored events.  

Disciplinary Actions/Sanctions Internal to the Texas Academy  

The Academy supports a proactive disciplinary process, which may include: 

• Conduct Warning: A formal notice that a student’s actions are not acceptable and that subsequent infractions will result in more severe action. 
• Conduct Probation: A formal contract that a student’s actions are of such seriousness that any further repeat may result in removal from the program. 
• Infractions: the Texas Academy uses infractions, ranging from minor to dismissible actions.  
• Restitution: Student will make reparation for damages he/she caused, if necessary. 
• Penalty/Fine: Student will be responsible for paying charges set for offense, if applicable. 
• Counseling: Student will report to administrator or Counselor as specified in disciplinary contract. 
• Restriction of Access: Student is limited in his/her access to specified areas of campus for a given period. 
• Response Action: Assignment of a task which is proactive in nature and appropriate for the infraction (i.e. a letter of apology for offensive behavior). Failure to complete the assigned task as specified may result in further disciplinary action.
• Community Service: Student will complete some type of service useful to the Texas Academy or Lamar University. Failure to complete the assigned task as specified may result in further disciplinary action. 

Interim Suspension: In the event that personal safety or the continued security of the Texas Academy community is in question due to a student’s behavior, that student will be turned over to the parents/guardians until a formal hearing is held. 

Suspension or Dismissal: In the event of a serious violation that jeopardizes the safety/security of a student or the community or in the case of violation of the “Zero Tolerance” policy, a student may be suspended or dismissed from the program. The student then has 24 hours for checkout from the residence hall. 

*In the case of the need to protect the health, safety, life, or property of the members of the Texas Academy community or to prevent the disruption of the educational process, the Academy reserves the right to ask the student to move out of Cardinal Village immediately, and/or to withdraw the student from classes. The student may be “trespassed,” which means he/she is not allowed to enter Cardinal Village, the Texas Academy Office/Lounge, or to attend any the Texas Academy functions. Police are called if a dismissed student violates trespass.  

Filing and Disposition of Complaints 

Any resident of the halls, any student or any university faculty or staff member may file a complaint against a Texas Academy student for an alleged violation. The complaint may be submitted by a formal letter or completion of a Texas Academy Complaint Form. The complaint shall set forth the following: 

• The name of the student(s) in violation; 
• The address of the student(s) in violation; 
• The date, time, and location of the complaint; 
• The date of the alleged violation; 
• A concise statement of the regulation violated; 
• A concise statement of the underlying facts which constitute the violation; 
• The name and address of the complaining individual; 
• The names and addresses of all witnesses. 

When the complaint is complete, it shall be presented to the Texas Academy administrator, who will note the date the complaint was filed. Additionally, based on the complaint, the Texas Academy staff will determine whether the complaint will be managed within the Texas Academy following the guidelines posted in the LU Code of Conduct Policy or if the complaint or issue must go to the Office of Student Engagement. 

The Texas Academy will follow the LU Code of Conduct Policy starting at 3.00 of Student Conduct: 

https://www.lamar.edu/students/academic-support/code-of-conduct.html 

NOTE: If the Texas Academy student is reported for a Title IX violation, the report should be made directly to the Title IX Coordinator.