PROFESSIONAL TRUCK DRIVER (CDL) STUDENT HANDBOOK Contains basic guidelines that must be understood by students 1200 E Cypresswood Dr Spring, TX 77373 LoneStar.edu/CDL LoneStar.edu/TransportationGlobalLogisticsTechnologyCenter
2 Table of Contents Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................4 Accreditations...............................................................................................................................................5 Board of Trustees..........................................................................................................................................5 Attendance and Grading...............................................................................................................................6 Attendance Policy .....................................................................................................................................6 Inclement Weather...................................................................................................................................6 Continuing Education Refund Policy.........................................................................................................7 Students Rights.............................................................................................................................................8 Accessibility Services and Resources........................................................................................................8 Civil Rights Complaint & Appeal Procedures............................................................................................8 Sexual Harassment Policy and Title IX ......................................................................................................8 Equal Opportunity Statement...................................................................................................................8 Equal Opportunity Inquiries......................................................................................................................9 Qualified and Diverse Employees...........................................................................................................10 Minors on College ...................................................................................................................................10 Students’ Children on College Premises.................................................................................................11 Convicted Sex Offender Policy................................................................................................................11 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)................................................................................12 Racial Profiling.........................................................................................................................................12 Academic Complaint and Appeal Process...............................................................................................12 Student Responsibilities..............................................................................................................................12 Dress Code ..............................................................................................................................................12 Program-specific Credential Requirements............................................................................................13 Student Behavior ....................................................................................................................................14 Student Services..........................................................................................................................................14 Career and Job Placement Services........................................................................................................14 Computer System Availability.................................................................................................................15 Advising...................................................................................................................................................15 Services for Military Veterans and Military-Affiliated Student Populations...........................................15
3 Consequences of Criminal Conviction ........................................................................................................16 Commercial Driver License (CDL) Disqualifications & Eligibility .............................................................17 Drug and Alcohol Testing for Specified Programs ......................................................................................17 Drugs and Alcohol Testing ......................................................................................................................17 Prohibited Conduct.................................................................................................................................21 Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol and Controlled Substances Use...........................................................22 Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program ........................................................................................23 FMCSA Clearinghouse.............................................................................................................................24 FMCSA Clearinghouse: Reporting Entities and Circumstances..............................................................25 Program Specific Information and Expectations ........................................................................................26 Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) ..........................................................................................................26 Human Trafficking...................................................................................................................................26 Accident Procedures...............................................................................................................................27 Yard Rules ...............................................................................................................................................28 Facilities ......................................................................................................................................................30 TGLTC-specific Expectations ...................................................................................................................30 Parking ....................................................................................................................................................30 Smoking...................................................................................................................................................30 Campus Security & Security........................................................................................................................31 Clery Act..................................................................................................................................................31 Campus Carry..........................................................................................................................................31 College Police..........................................................................................................................................31
4 Introduction Lone Star College (LSC) Transportation and Global Logistics Technology Center and the team overseeing the Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training Programs strive to provide a safe environment for all students. This document will provide general guidance for Lone Star College (LSC) Transportation & Global Logistics Technology Center (LSC-TGLTC) students as well as some specific procedures and expectations. This document is not intended to be an exhaustive list of dos and don’ts. Students are encouraged to speak to an instructor or supervisor if they have questions about procedures and expectations.
5 Accreditations Lone Star College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. For policy information, please reference College Board Policy Manual Section II.I.3.01, available at www.lonestar.edu/policy. Questions about the accreditation of Lone Star College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033- 4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org). Individual programs at Lone Star College are further approved by numerous national associations and state credentialing agencies. To obtain or review documents describing a program’s accreditation, approval or licensing, contact the program instructional leadership directly. Program contact information may be found by going to LoneStar.edu/programs. https://www.lonestar.edu/catalog/#/policy/Sk5mf_lRt?bc=true&bcCurrent=Accreditations&bcGroup=A ccreditations%20and%20Affiliations&bcItemType=policies Board of Trustees District 1 Michael Stoma, Chair District 2 Ernestine M. Pierce, Trustee District 3 Iesheia Wilson, Trustee District 4 Art Murillo, Vice Chair District 5 David Vogt, Trustee District 6 Myriam Saldivar, Trustee District 7 Rebecca Broussard, Trustee District 8 Mike Sullivan, Secretary District 9 Jim Cain, Ed.D., Asst. Secretary
6 Attendance and Grading Attendance Policy Attendance to all classes is expected. Students must meet the requirements of Federal and State agencies, if applicable. Absences are not valued as excused or unexcused; attendance is a necessary part of the course/program for knowledge and skill development. Exceeding the allowable absences will result in an unsuccessful attempt at the completion of the course/program and will not be eligible to take the skills test. The Open Enrollment (240-hour) program allows students to miss two (2) days. Two (2) days is 16 hours for a student attending a full-time, Monday-Friday, program and 18 hours for a student attending the weekend, Saturday & Sunday, class. Students who arrive late to class or return late from lunch or break will be considered tardy. Three (3) tardies to class are considered equal to one absence. Students who exceed the number of allowable absences will not receive CEUs or a program certificate of completion. Contracts with corporate clients have unique attendance requirements. In many cases, perfect attendance may be required. Please visit with the program manager if the expectations are unclear. All students are encouraged to notify their instructor in advance if they anticipate being absent. Inclement Weather In the event of inclement weather or emer-gency closing, the LSC Chancellor or designee may cancel all or some of the College’s classes. Generally, such decisions will be made between 5:30 and 6 a.m. for day classes and by 3 p.m. for evening classes. When off-campus facilities are closed for any reason, the College’s classes at those sites will also be canceled. The closing announcement will be issued through LoneStarCollegeAlert, posted on the LSC website at LoneStar.edu, displayed on social media channels Facebook and Twitter, and issued to local radio/television stations. If a student or employee believes that weather conditions will put them in danger or at risk, they should follow all safety precautions. LoneStarCollegeAlert All current LSC students and employees are automatically opted-in to LoneStarCollegeAlert, the LSC emergency alert system, with their LoneStar.edu email address as the primary communication source. Personal contact information must be updated in myLoneStar to receive emergency text messages or notifications to a personal email account. To receive emergency text messages to your cell phone, log in to myLoneStar and update your official student or employee personal information record with your cell phone information. Go to the LoneStarCollegeAlert page at LoneStar.edu/LoneStarCollegeAlert for more information.
7 Continuing Education Refund Policy Refunds are not provided after the class begins. A full refund is provided if a drop/add form is completed and submitted to the continuing education registration office before the course starts. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/refunds.htm
8 Students Rights Accessibility Services and Resources Accessibility Services and Resources is responsible for collaborating with members of the Lone Star College to proactively create usable, equitable, and inclusive working and learning environments for the College’s community. The department provides strategy, initiatives, and programs for ensuring compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) and the revisions under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you have a disability that requires accommodation(s) to participate in this course, please contact the Campus Disability Services Office as soon as possible. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/accessibility-services-resources.htm Civil Rights Complaint & Appeal Procedures Students experiencing a civil rights violation should complain to the applicable Chief Student Services Officer, President, or Lone Star College-Online’s Chief Executive Officer as soon as possible. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/departments/generalcounsel/Section_VI.D.12_Student_Civil_Rights_Complai nts_Procedures.pdf Sexual Harassment Policy and Title IX The College strives to maintain an educational environment compliant with all applicable antidiscrimination laws, including all laws outlawing discrimination arising from: sexual harassment, sexual violence, race, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion, ethnic or national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. Unlawful academic discrimination by officers, managers, faculty, supervisors, employees, students, advisors, vendors, clients, or contractors will not be tolerated. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/titleix.htm Equal Opportunity Statement Lone Star is committed to the principles of equal opportunity in education and employment. Lone Star College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, gender expression, religion, ethnic or national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status in its programs and activities, as stated in the LSCS Board Policy Manual. For policy information, please reference College Board Policy Manual Section IV.E.1.1., VI.A.1.1., & VI.D.12, available at www.lonestar.edu/policy.
9 Equal Opportunity Inquiries All inquiries concerning LSC policies, compliance with applicable laws, statutes, and regulations (such as Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504), and complaints may be directed to: Sandra Gregerson Senior Associate Vice Chancellor Equal Opportunity (EO) Officer Office of Governance, Accountability, and Compliance 832.813.6835 Patricia Woods Senior Associate Vice Chancellor Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer Office of Human Resources 832.813.6745 Karen Miner Executive Director, Title IX Coordinator Compliance Education and Training 832.813.6614 Title IX Notice of Rights to Complainants Alicia Guevara Director ADA Coordinator Accessibility Services and Resources 281.401.5366 Student Civil Rights Complaints Campus Chief Student Services Officers Campus Presidents 832.813.6500 For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/equal-opportunity-informationinquiries.htm Student Complaint Process and Contacts Inquiries about the laws and compliance may also be directed to Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education. For further information, visit ed.gov for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call 1.800.421.3481.
10 After exhausting the institution’s grievance/complaint process, current, former, and prospective students may initiate a complaint with THECB by sending the required forms either by electronic mail to [email protected] or mail to: Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Office of General Counsel P.O. Box 12788 Austin, TX 78711-2788 Facsimile transmissions of the forms are not accepted. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/departments/generalcounsel/Section_VI.D.12_Student_Civil_Rights_Complai nts_Procedures.pdf Qualified and Diverse Employees Lone Star College values diversity in both its employees and students. LSC actively recruits and strives to retain highly-qualified staff, faculty and administration members who will reflect the core values and cultural beliefs of Lone Star College and meet with needs of students and the community. Minors on College Lone Star College is a community college system that embraces our communities and welcomes residents of all ages. All minors on campus are subject to all LSC policies and procedures. In order to provide for the safety of all children, unless exempted through a variance approved by the Chancellor or Chancellor’s designee, an Authorized Responsible Adult (parents, legal guardians, or an adult authorized by a parent or legal guardian to be responsible for Minors) must supervise Minors (persons aged 15 and under) on College premises, unless the Minor is participating in a College class, program, or event. This means that Authorized Responsible Adults do not have to accompany Minors while they are participating in the College class, program, or event, but must be present to monitor the Minors’ activities outside of a College class, program, or event. Minors participating in a College class, program, or event must have written permission from their parent or legal guardian. The Authorized Responsible Adult must be immediately available in an emergency situation. For complete information, please reference College Board Policy Manual Section II.D.2 at www.lonestar.edu/policy. LSC campuses with a Harris County Public Library (HCPL) operating on the college campus will comply with HCPL regulations regarding children in the library.
11 Dual-credit and other similar programs are governed by the applicable agreement between LSC and the independent school district or other secondary education institution. Students participating in a LSC approved program must abide by the requirements specified in the agreement. If the agreement does not specify supervision requirements, then the College’s Board Policy and procedures of supervision apply. Students’ Children on College Premises College students’ children may not enter the classroom, even for brief visits, without the instructor’s prior express written permission. Instructors may deny permission or revoke written permission. Children cannot enter an activity or lab area where dangerous substances or equipment are stored or in use, unless the children are students enrolled in an applicable class or participating in a special College program. Students may not have their children accompany them on College field trips unless the children are also enrolled in the class. For complete information, please reference College Board Policy Manual Section II.D.2.06 at LoneStar.edu/Policy Additional information concerning children on campus may be found at LoneStar.edu/StudentCommunity-Facilities. Convicted Sex Offender Policy The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 62.153 mandates each person required to register as a sex offender, and who intends to be employed, work with a contractor, or attend classes at Lone Star College, to register with the College’s Police Department at least seven (7) days before reporting to any LSC campus. As part of this registration, the individual must submit information pertinent to his or her offenses, which will be forwarded to the College’s Review Committee for a determination of eligibility for employment, vendor services, or enrollment. A person seeking to be enrolled as a student must first be approved before completing the registration process. Failure to register and receive necessary approval under this section may result in immediate suspension, dismissal, or termination of employment. To begin the review process, an individual must call the LSC Police Department at 281.290.5911. Sex Offender Data Information concerning registered sex offenders on any Lone Star campus can be accessed from the Lone Star Police website at LoneStar.edu/Sex-Offenders.
12 Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) was established to protect the privacy rights of all students. FERPA prevents the release of non-directory information held within education records. Directory information is defined in the Lone Star College Policy Manual (VI.H.1) as the student’s name, classification, full or part-time enrollment, program of study, dates of enrollment, degrees and certificates received, and awards and honors received. The student has the right to refuse to let designate any or all those types of information as directory information. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/ferpa.htm Racial Profiling The LSC Police Department prohibits racial profiling by its officers. The police department actively participates in the state’s required reporting of traffic stop and detention statistics in compliance with state statutes. Academic Complaint and Appeal Process Lone Star College is committed to appropriate resolution of academic and instructional complaints as efficiently and effectively as possible. If you have a concern, you should first contact your instructor to try and reach a resolution. A final grade appeal is a formal request for a student to contest a final grade. Enrollment and Registration Appeal is a formal appeal raised by a student to dispute his or her enrollment for the semester due to unforeseen circumstances. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/student-complaints.htm#academicm Student Responsibilities Dress Code Students are expected to dress in accordance with their program’s expectations. Students enrolled in the 240-hr program will wear uniform shirts. All students may choose between boots or sneakers/tennis shoes. Students will train during rain events and should bring appropriate gear to class, including but not limited to, waterproof boots, a slicker suit, and an umbrella.
13 Program-specific Credential Requirements This program handbook contains general guidelines, procedures, and policies specifically applicable to the Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training Program. The Lone Star College System District Board Policy Manual (“Board Policy”) and the Chancellor’s Procedures will govern, respectively, to the extent of any conflict with this handbook. The College’s Commercial Driver Training Program offers commercial driver training programs that require students to possess or obtain a commercial learner’s permit (“CLP”). These handbook procedures clarify credential requirements for the Commercial Driver Training Program students. Students must complete all required forms truthfully and accurately. Providing inaccurate, false, or misleading information may impact a student’s ability to obtain required CDL credentials and continue in the Program. Definitions The following definitions apply to this section. 1. CDL Training Student means an individual who is enrolled in the College’s Commercial Driver Training Program and required to maintain or obtain a valid commercial learner’s permit (“CLP”) or commercial driver’s license (“CDL”) to operate commercial motor vehicles for training purposes. 2. CLP means commercial learner’s permit issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. 3. Commercial Driver Training Program means the Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training program. 4. Credentials means CDL, CLP, endorsements, medical examiner’s certificate, and any other federal, state, local, or industry certifications required for participation in the Commercial Driver Training Program. CDL or CLP Requirement CDL Training Students must have or obtain a valid CLP or CDL to satisfy Commercial Driver Training Program requirements for their specific class or program. CDL Training Students must provide Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training Program personnel a copy of their CLP or CDL any other supporting documentation necessary to verify credentials. Students are responsible for all fees to obtain their required credentials. Medical Examiner’s Certificate The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (“FMCSA”) medical process is designed to ensure commercial vehicle drivers are physically qualified to operate commercial vehicles safely.
14 The College will adhere to all laws, Board Policies, and Chancellor’s Procedures regarding student disability accommodations. Students needing accommodations should contact the Disability Services Office to request any needed accommodations. Required Reporting of Substance-Related Offenses CDL Training Students must notify the TGLTC Director, Senior Program Manager, Program Coordinator, or Lead Instructor in writing before reporting to class if they are arrested and or charged with an alcohol or drug-related driving offense. Failure to maintain credentials CDL Training Students who fail to maintain valid CLP credentials may become ineligible to continue in the Commercial Driver Training Program Student Behavior Students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately while on college property or in an online environment. Students may receive disciplinary action up to and including suspension, if they violate System or College rules, disrupt classes, or interfere with the opportunity of others to obtain an education. Students who pose a threat to the safety of others will be subject to immediate withdrawal from the classroom, campus environment, and/or online environment, as well as face subsequent criminal charges, as appropriate. Please refer to the Student Code of Conduct located online at http://www.lonestar.edu/student-responsibilities.htm for additional information. Student Services Career and Job Placement Services Career Services offers a variety of resources to assist students and graduates in developing career strategies. Services include: • Career Counseling: Assistance with making career decisions; selecting a major; career planning; job search coaching; interview preparation; résumé preparation; personality and interest assessments; and career exploration assessments. • Career Resource Library: Career fields and majors; agencies and organizations; career planning information; résumé and cover letter guides; and resources for special populations. • Employment Resources: Résumé and interviewing seminars; résumé critiques; job search coaching; and job postings on system databases.
15 • Online Career Interest Assessment and Job Search Tool: Lone Star College offers all students and community members access to Career Star tools for career interest assessment and job searching. https://lonestar.emsicc.com/ For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/career-services.htm Computer System Availability Lone Star College recognizes the value that technology adds to teaching and learning and has built a robust and stable infrastructure to support it. Because regular maintenance of computer systems is critical to their performance and efficiency, planned downtimes are normally performed after-hours to minimize disruption to faculty, students and staff. Advanced notice of the scheduled maintenance is distributed in many ways and provides information on the services impacted with estimated start and end times. Users are encouraged to note these communications and plan accordingly. Contact the OTS Service Desk at 832.813.6600 or go to LoneStar.service-now.com/sp for updates. Advising Lone Star College provides comprehensive academic advising services that supports the educational goals of students and the community. Academic advisors are available in-person and virtually to provide services such as identifying educational goals, developing academic plans, career and transfer advising, along with referrals to academic support services and more. In addition to academic advisors, Lone Star College has licensed professional counselors that provide counseling services for academic interventions, accommodations, and a variety of other services. For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/advising Services for Military Veterans and Military-Affiliated Student Populations Students receiving benefits from Veteran Services must comply with VA rules and regulations. To avoid overpayment, all transcripts must be evaluated, and credit(s) applied prior to certification of courses for benefits. Students are highly encouraged to have their military transcript evaluated to register for classes. Veteran Advising Services [email protected] 281-290-2922 Veteran Services [email protected] 281-290-2922
16 For more information, please visit https://www.lonestar.edu/veterans.htm Consequences of Criminal Conviction Notice of Potential Ineligibility for License (see note [1]) Lone Star College offers some workforce associate degree or certificate programs in which a state license is required to obtain employment in healthcare, emergency services or business services fields. For students in these programs who may have a criminal background, please be advised that the background check results could keep you from being licensed by the State of Texas or other licensing agencies required to obtain employment. If a student has a question about his or her background and licensure, please speak with the appropriate department chair, program director, or person listed on the program website. Students also have the right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the applicable licensing agency. If you are applying for admission to a College program or enrolling in a College program that may prepare you for an initial occupational license (see note [2]) issued by a Licensing authority (see note [3]) and/or if you later decide to change to a program that prepares you for an occupational license, please be advised of the following: An individual who has been convicted of an offense may be ineligible for issuance of an occupational license upon completion of the educational program. Licensing authorities that issue an occupational license to an individual who completes the educational program issue guidelines stating the reasons a particular crime is considered to relate to a particular occupational license and any other criterion that affects the decisions of the licensing authority. A state licensing authority that issues guidelines files those guidelines with the Secretary of State for publication in the Texas Register. Local or county licensing authorities that issue an occupational license to an individual who completes the educational program issue guidelines related to criminal history and post the guidelines at the courthouse of the county in which the licensing authority is located or publish them in a newspaper having countrywide circulation in that county. Applicants should contact their respective local or county licensing authority for more details. An individual may request a criminal history evaluation letter regarding the personal eligibility for a license issued by a licensing authority as allowed by Texas Occupation Code § 53.102. All applicants and enrollees are encouraged to review all applicable eligibility requirements related to the respective occupational license. Questions related to eligibility requirements should be directed to the applicable licensing authority. [1] Tex. Occ. Code § 53.152
17 [2] Tex. Occ. Code § 53.025 “Occupational license” means a license, certificate, registration, permit, or other form of authorization required by law or rule that must be obtained by an individual to engage in a particular business or occupation. Tex. Occ. Code § 58.001. [3] Tex. Occ. Code § 53.025 “Licensing authority” means a state agency or political subdivision that issues an occupational license. Tex. Occ. Code § 58.001. Commercial Driver License (CDL) Disqualifications & Eligibility Students are responsible for ensuring their driver’s license is eligible, and remains eligible throughout the training program, for upgrade to a commercial driver’s license. For more information, please visit https://txapps.texas.gov/txapp/txdps/dleligibility/login.do Students are responsible for ensuring they do not become disqualified from operating a commercial motor vehicle before and during their training program. For more information, please visit https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/commercial-driverlicense-cdl-disqualifications Drug and Alcohol Testing for Specified Programs Students in health occupations, emergency services and truck driving (CDL) programs may be required to undergo drug testing after acceptance into a program, prior to the start of a clinical rotation, externship and/or if there is a reason to suspect a drug or alcohol impairment. Drugs and Alcohol Testing This program handbook contains general guidelines, procedures, and policies specifically applicable to the Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training Program. The Lone Star College System District Board Policy Manual (“Board Policy”) and the Chancellor’s Procedures will govern, respectively, to the extent of any conflict with this handbook. These Drug and Alcohol Testing Procedures clarify the Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training Program’s drug and alcohol testing requirements for students and employees as required by federal and state law and as authorized by Board Policy Section VI.D.6. Drug and Alcohol Testing. Lone Star College is committed to providing a safe work and learning environment and strives to prevent injuries and accidents that are a result of the misuse of alcohol or the use of controlled substances by drivers of commercial motor vehicles. The Drug and Alcohol Testing Procedures outline the process that
18 will be followed if a student in the Lone Star College Commercial Driving Program violates the FMCSA or Lone Star College drug and alcohol rules. Questions about drug and alcohol testing or the information provided should be directed to the TGLTC Director or Senior Program Manager. The process followed at Lone Star College is designed to protect the participating students’ and employees’ privacy and ensure the integrity and reliability of testing procedures. Definitions The following definitions apply to these Drug and Alcohol Testing procedures. 1. Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) means a commercial driver’s license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. 2. Commercial Motor Vehicle means a motor vehicle used to transport passengers or property that (1) has a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds inclusive of a towed unit with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds; (2) has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds; or (3) is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. 3. CDL Program means the Lone Star College Commercial Driver Training Program. 4. CDL Training Instructor means a Lone Star College CDL Program employee who—for instruction purposes—operates a commercial motor vehicle and is required to maintain a valid CDL. 5. CDL Training Student means an individual who is enrolled in one of the College’s CDL Program and required to maintain or obtain a valid commercial learner’s permit (“CLP”) and/or commercial driver’s license (“CDL”) to operate commercial motor vehicles for training purposes. 6. Licensed medical practitioner means a person who is licensed, certified, and/or registered, in accordance with applicable Federal, State, local, or foreign laws and regulations, to prescribe controlled substances and other drugs. 7. Reasonable Suspicion has the same meaning as Board Policy Section IV.F.9.2©, except that this definition also applies to CDL Training Students covered under this Section. 8. Safety-sensitive function means driving, operating, maintaining, or remaining ready to operate a commercial motor vehicle. Required Department of Transportation (“DOT”) Drug and Alcohol Testing Training Instructors and Students are subject to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations, the College’s Board Policy Manual, and the Chancellor’s Procedures. Individuals required to submit to drug and alcohol testing must report for testing at the designated testing location within the time specified by the CDL Program’s drug and alcohol testing notice.
19 Drug and alcohol testing may be required in the following circumstances: 1. Pre-employment/Pre-enrollment. Candidates for CDL Training Instructor positions must pass a preemployment drug test as part of the hiring process, and CDL Training Students must pass a preenrollment drug test to participate in skills and theoretical training beyond the CLP class. Students who fail the pre- employment enrollment drug test are not eligible for a refund of tuition and fees. 2. Post-Accident. CDL Training Instructors and Students shall submit to post- accident DOT drug and alcohol testing if they are involved in a collision while operating a commercial motor vehicle if they, receive a citation, and the collision results in disabling damage to one or more motor vehicles and/or bodily injury requiring medical attention away from the scene. Any collision that results in a fatality requires a post-accident DOT test, regardless of which driver, if any, is cited. Unless otherwise prohibited by applicable law, CDL Training Instructors and Students may return to the CDL Program while awaiting post-accident test results. i) Alcohol tests should be conducted within two hours and must be administered within eight hours following the accident. ii) Controlled substance tests must be administered within 32 hours following the accident. 3. Random Testing. CDL Training Instructors and Students are subject to random drug and or alcohol testing spread reasonably throughout the calendar year in accordance with applicable law. A third-party administrator will facilitate the CDL Program’s random drug and alcohol testing. All CDL Training Instructors and Students will be included in Testing Pools and randomly selected for required drug or alcohol testing. A CDL Training Instructor or Student selected for random testing must immediately report to the third-party testing location without unreasonable delay. 4. Reasonable Suspicion Testing. A CDL Training Instructor or Student may be required to undergo reasonable suspicion drug or alcohol testing if based on appearance, behavior, speech, or body functions the Training Instructor or Student is reasonably suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A reasonable suspicion determination will be based on specific, contemporaneous, and articulable observations. a. Reasonable suspicion testing for CDL Training Instructors will be conducted in accordance with applicable law and Board Policy Section IV.F.9.4. b. Training Instructors and Students may not perform any safety sensitive functions while awaiting reasonable suspicion test results. 5. Return-to-Duty and Return-to-Training Testing. CDL Training Instructors must complete the return to duty process (“RTD”) and CDL Training Students must complete the return to training (“RTT”) process if they have: (1) tested positive for drugs or alcohol; (2) refused to submit to required drug or alcohol testing; or (3) otherwise violated applicable law prohibiting drug and alcohol use by licensed commercial motor vehicle drivers. To complete the RTD (Training Instructors only) and RTT (Training Students only) processes, CDL Training Instructors and Students must be evaluated by a qualified Substance Abuse
20 Professional (SAP), successfully complete the SAP’s recommended plan, and pass a RTD drug and or alcohol test. Payment for RTD or RTT testing is the responsibility of the CDL Training Instructor and Student. 6. Follow-up Testing. CDL Training Instructors and Students who have passed an RTD/RTT drug and or alcohol test and completed the RTD/RTT process with a qualified SAP must also submit to follow-up tests in accordance with applicable law. It is the responsibility of the CDL Training Instructors and Students to pay for follow-up testing. Non-Compliance Failure to comply with required drug and or alcohol testing may result in disciplinary action in accordance with Board Policy and the Chancellor’s Procedures. These handbook procedures may be updated as necessary to remain in compliance with federal and state law, Board Policy, and Chancellor’s Procedures. The handbook is available on the relevant Program of Study websites and at the Transportation and Global Logistics Technology Center.
21 Prohibited Conduct The following conduct is prohibited: 1. Student drivers are prohibited from reporting for duty or remaining on duty with an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater. 2. Student drivers are prohibited from consuming alcohol in any form while performing safety-sensitive functions. 3. Student drivers are prohibited from performing safety-sensitive functions within four (4) hours after consuming alcohol. 4. Student drivers are prohibited from using alcohol for eight (8) hours following an accident, or until the driver takes a post-accident alcohol test, whichever occurs first. 5. Student drivers may not refuse to submit to any drug or alcohol test required under the FMCSA's drug and alcohol rules and this policy. “Refusal to Submit” means: • A student fails to appear for a test, except a pre-enrollment test, within a reasonable time as determined by LSC after being directed to report for testing or a student fails to appear for a test as directed by a consortium/third party administration (C/TPA); • Not remaining at the testing site until the test process is complete. • Failing to provide a urine specimen or a sufficient amount of a urine specimen, and it has been determined, through a required medical evaluation, that there was no adequate medical explanation for the failure; • Failing or declining to take a second test as directed by the employer or collector; • Failing to undergo a medical examination or evaluation as directed by the medical review officer (MRO) as part of the verification process or as directed by the MRO; • Failing or refusing to cooperate during the process or behaving in such a way as to disrupt the process; and • The MRO reports a verified adulterated or substituted test result. • Lone Star College has the sole discretion to decide whether a refusal occurred. 6. Student drivers are prohibited from engaging in the unlawful or unauthorized manufacture, distribution, dispensation, sale, purchase, solicitation, transfer, possession or use of controlled substances or alcohol, while participating in class or activities associated with class. This does not
22 include the authorized distribution, dispensation, sale, purchase, solicitation, transfer, possession or use of alcohol at college-sponsored functions or events. 7. Student drivers are prohibited from reporting for duty, or remaining on duty when the student driver uses any drugs, except when the use is pursuant to the instructions of a licensed medical practitioner as previously defined, who has advised the student driver that the substance will not adversely affect the student driver's ability to safely operate a commercial motor vehicle. 8. Student drivers are prohibited from performing or continuing to perform a safety-sensitive function if they have tested positive for controlled substances or alcohol. Prohibition Against Training While Using Any Medication Which Affect Safety or Performance The following conduct is also prohibited: 1. Use of any medication (therapeutic drugs) while engaged in school activities is prohibited to the extent such use may pose a significant risk of substantial harm to the health or safety of the student driver and others in the student driver's performance of his or her safety-sensitive functions. 2. A student driver using any medication that contains alcohol or a controlled substance has an obligation to inquire and determine whether the substance the driver is taking poses a significant risk of substantial harm to the health or safety of the student driver or others in the performance of their student duties. If the student driver is using such a medication, the student driver is required to obtain from their licensed medical practitioner a written statement which provides that the medication does not pose a significant risk of substantial harm to health or safety of the student driver or others in the performance of their student performance. 3. The licensed medical practitioner's statement must be reported to the student driver's instructor prior to commencing any safety-sensitive functions, without disclosing the identity of the substance or the student driver’s medical condition. Then the instructor must report this information to the Program Manager who will contact the LSC’s MRO. The MRO will contact the student driver, and the student driver must provide the MRO with the information on the original medication container. This information may be reviewed by LSC’s MRO in consultation of the student driver’s licensed medical practitioner. Depending upon the results of the review, the Program Manager will consider whether the health or safety risk can be eliminated or sufficiently reduced by a reasonable accommodation, if applicable. Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol and Controlled Substances Use Misusing alcohol and the use of controlled substances can negatively affect an individual’s health, work, training, and personal life. Additionally, an individual’s misuse of alcohol and/or use of controlled substances puts the lives and wellness of family members, coworkers, and students at risk. Some signs and symptoms of misusing alcohol or using controlled substances include, but are not limited to, safety-
23 jeopardizing behavior, poor coordination, slurred speech, incoherent speech, impaired thinking, and memory impairment. Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program Lone Star College (LSC) is committed to providing its students and employees a drug and alcohol-free workplace and learning environment. Toward that end, LSC prohibits the unlawful possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of unauthorized drugs and alcohol in the workplace, on the campuses, or at any LSC activities. LSC, including each of its colleges and centers, shall provide a safe, responsive environment for all students and employees. There are many people whose job, academic performance, and productivity are adversely affected by their dependence on drugs and alcohol. Students who have an alcohol or controlled substances problem may reach out to Lone Star College’s Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program or contact a Lone Star College counselor. For more information, please visit Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP) | (lonestar.edu)
24 FMCSA Clearinghouse FMCSA Clearinghouse: Student-Driver Most students who are not currently working for a motor carrier and must register as a student driver. As a student driver, the student is responsible for designating a C/TPA to ensure the student meets FMCSA requirements to be in a random pool, and the student must conduct a query in the Clearinghouse. Lone Star College has arrangements with Texas Alcohol and Drug Testing Service, a C/TPA, to provide drug testing services for the student. The student acknowledges Lone Star College’s policies, procedures, and requirements, and the student authorizes Lone Star College access to their drug and alcohol testing results and query results. Registration in the Clearinghouse • Clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov o Click Register o Below the Sign in button, click Create an account o Follow the instructions to create an account ▪ Use your personal address • Future employers will request to run queries; the request for consent will be sent to your personal email address ▪ Click Phone to get security codes by text message, Continue ▪ Enter cell number, then click send code o Enter the one-time security code from text and click Submit o Click I don’t have any of these o Write the codes down, click Continue • Log in to Register o Select Student Driver o Select C/TPA • Type: Texas Alcohol and Drug Testing Service, click the magnifying glass • Locate and select Texas Alcohol and Drug Testing Service, 411 Lantern Road • Click all three boxes • Complete the registration process
25 FMCSA Clearinghouse: Reporting Entities and Circumstances Reporting entity When information will be reported to clearinghouse Prospective/Current Employer of CDL Driver - An alcohol confirmation test with a concentration of 0.04 or higher. - Refusal to test (alcohol) as specified in 49 CFR 40.261. - Refusal to test (drug) not requiring a determination by the MRO as specified in 49 CFR 40.191. - Actual knowledge, as defined in 49 CFR 382.107, that a driver has used alcohol on duty, used alcohol within four hours of coming on duty, used alcohol prior to post-accident testing, or has used a controlled substance. - Negative return-to-duty test results (drug and alcohol testing, as applicable) - Completion of follow-up testing. Service Agent acting on behalf of Current Employer of CDL Driver - An alcohol confirmation test with a concentration of 0.04 or higher. - Refusal to test (alcohol) as specified in 49 CFR 40.261. - Refusal to test (drug) not requiring a determination by the MRO as specified in 49 CFR 40.191. - Actual knowledge, as defined in 49 CFR 382.107, that a driver has used alcohol on duty, used alcohol within four hours of coming on duty, used alcohol prior to post-accident testing, or has used a controlled substance. - Negative return-to-duty test results (drug and alcohol testing, as applicable) - Completion of follow-up testing. MRO - Verified positive, adulterated, or substituted drug test result. - Refusal to test (drug) requiring a determination by the MRO as specified in 49 CFR 40.191. SAP - Identification of driver and date the initial assessment was initiated. - Successful completion of treatment and/or education and the determination of eligibility for return-to-duty testing. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/subtitle-B/chapter-III/subchapter-B/part-382 [81 FR 87725, Dec. 5, 2016, as amended at 86 FR 35639, July 7, 2021]
26 Program Specific Information and Expectations Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) Lone Star College is a registered training provider for ELDT. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides oversight for the Training Provider Registry (TPR) and the regulations pertaining to ELDT. Students participating in ELDT will comply with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, State and/or local laws, related to alcohol and controlled substances testing, age, medical certification, licensing, and driver records. Students will self-certify their compliance in writing to Lone Star College. Students who do not comply with the regulations or fail to self-certify their willingness to comply with the regulations will not be permitted to continue in the commercial driver training program. The Theory portion of ELDT requires students to obtain an overall score of 80% on the unit assessments. Students who do not successfully complete the Theory portion of ELDT are not eligible to take the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commercial Driver’s License Skills Test and will receive a grade of “N” for the course and/or program, and will not receive a certificate of completion. The Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) portion requires proficiency and other standards to be met. Students who do not demonstrate proficiency or meet the other standards are not eligible to take the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commercial Driver’s License Skills Test, will receive a grade of “N” for the course and/or program, and will not receive a certificate of completion. Human Trafficking Texas Education Code Sections 130.0105, 132.006 require each public community college offering a commercial driver’s license (CDL) training program to include as a part of that program education and training on the recognition and prevention of human trafficking. Students enrolled in a commercial driver’s license training program at Lone Star College are required to participate in this mandatory training and document their participation on an attestation form.
27 Accident Procedures If possible, stop the vehicle at the point nearest the accident scene without obstructing traffic more than necessary. No matter how minor an accident may be, the failure to stop can result in serious consequences. After stopping, turn the vehicle off. Do a health check. Ask if everyone is okay. If anyone needs medical assistance or seems groggy or unsure of their response, call 9-1-1. Render first aid to any injured persons, if possible. Contact the supervisor. Contact local, municipal or county police, or Texas Highway Patrol to report the accident. Contact Lone Star Police Department. 281-290-5911 Get names, phone numbers, and addresses of other drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Note who was injured, if anyone, and the nature of their injuries. Give the other driver your name and Lone Star College insurance information. Contact the LSC Office of Risk Management immediately by email [email protected] or by phone 832-246-0047 if the accident involves: 1. Another car with people in it (even if no one was hurt); 2. A pedestrian; or 3. Any personal injury or extensive property damage. Students and staff who were involved in the accident or witnessed the accident will submit signed and dated statements. Within 24 hours, complete a LSC Vehicle Loss Report. Supervisors will assist with processing worker’s compensation claims for employess to address injuries resulting from an accident. Failure to report an accident immediately to a supervisor may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
28 Yard Rules 1. Look both ways while walking on or off the training yard. The shift track is active. The rigs travel up to 35 MPH. Everyone should always be aware of their surroundings. Do not stand on the track. 2. The track is one-way, counterclockwise. Any deviations must be approved by the Director of the LSC-TGLTC. 3. Stopping in the lane of the training track should be kept to a minimum. Stopping is appropriate for simulating roadside emergency stops and railroad crossing training/testing. Vehicles are not permitted to pass stopped or slow-moving vehicles on the track. 4. Pad #1 – the staging area - shall not be used for parking while taking breaks. 5. No vehicles will be operated unless an instructor is in or near the vehicle and has given the student permission to do so. 6. Cell phone use is not permitted on the pad or in the vehicles. This is a classroom environment. If anyone must make a call or look at their phone, they must walk off the yard. 7. Each student must have appropriate credentials, including but not limited to a Texas driver’s license, commercial driver’s learner’s permit, and Medical Examiner’s Certificate. 8. A pre-trip inspection of each vehicle will be performed at least once a day. Vehicles must be posttripped when returning from the road. 9. No acceleration on the training pads. Vehicles will not go faster than idle in low, first gear, second gear, and reverse. This is to maintain control of the vehicle and give the ground people and the driver more time for communication. 10. The air horn shall not be used on the yard. The city horn may be used as needed. 11. Students are not permitted in the passenger seat on the yard unless an instructor is giving a demonstration. 12. All students must be alert, aware, and attentive to the truck maneuvers at all times. Students must remain standing, never sitting, kneeling, or squatting while on the training pad. Students shall not gather in groups. Students must spot at all times. This is a “classroom” environment, and all students are expected to be on task. Facilitating continuous learning for all students on the pad is the instructors’ responsibility. 13. When vehicles are in motion for maneuvers, one spotter should be positioned to spot in the front in proximity to the left steer tire, and one spotter should be positioned to spot at the rear of the trailer. Spotters should be prepared to yell and signal “STOP” before the driver gets too close to any object or person. The other students assigned to the vehicle should also be in spotting positions based on the maneuver and instructor’s direction.
29 14. No one should be directly behind a vehicle or trailer at any time. 15. Each student will have 15 minutes, maximum, to perform a successful maneuver. 16. If the rig gets into a jackknife position, stop the vehicle and pull forward. This is to prevent damaging the rig. 17. No horseplay. Examples include, throwing rocks, riding on any part of the vehicle that is in motion, or racing under a moving trailer. 18. All trucks must have keys secured with an instructor and all windows up before breaking for lunch and at the end of the day. 19. Arguing and disruptive behavior is not permitted. 20. No sandals or open-toe shoes. 21. No food is allowed in the trucks. Only clear liquid is allowed. Students must clean up all trash and place it in a garbage can. 22. No smoking, vaping, or tobacco chewing at any time while on the yard or in trucks. A designated smoking area is on site. 23. Deposit trash in the proper receptacles. 24. Instructors will provide feedback to students daily. 25. Each training pad is an active learning lab, bounded by the track. Training shall be confined within the bounds of the assigned training pad while performing backing maneuvers. Instructors and students are responsible for ensuring training vehicles do not encroach into other training pads or the track. 26. The only vehicles permitted to be driven on a training pad that is in use are the vehicles being used for training on that specific training pad. No one is permitted to drive through a training pad while the pad is in use.
30 Facilities TGLTC-specific Expectations It is the responsibility of everyone at the Transportation and Global Logistics Technology Center to maintain the building, equipment, and grounds. Learning Lab: Simulator Room 1. Keep the space organized, clean, and secure. 2. Keep chairs pulled away from the walls to prevent damaging the walls. 3. Students are only allowed to operate the simulator in the presence of an instructor. Instructors shall not leave students unattended in the simulator room. Computer Lab 1. Students may not have food or beverages on the tables in the computer lab. 2. Students will be offered a temporary password if needing assistance with the class registration process. Parking Parking does not require a permit. Students, employees, and visitors may park freely as long as they park within stall lines and do not park in designated reserved or handicap areas without the proper permit. Parking regulations are enforced 24 hours a day. Violators are subject to citation. Citations can be resolved at lonestar.edu/parking. For questions related to parking on campus, please email [email protected]. Smoking Smoking and vaping are not permitted on campus, except at the smoking shelter. The smoking shelter is the green structure located adjacent to the parking lot.
31 Campus Security & Security Clery Act LSC complies with the Jeanne Clery Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, Violence Against Women Act of 2013, and the Jacob Wetterling Crimes against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act. Relevant information can be found in the Lone Star College Annual Security Report available online at LoneStar.edu/Police Please review LSC’s Board Policy and Chancellor’s Procedures on Sexual Harassment, Assault, Violence, and Discrimination Process to find more information including how to report a violation to the Title IX Coordinator. Policy & Procedures are found at LoneStar.edu/Policy Campus Carry The Texas Legislature enacted campus carry by passing Senate Bill 11, effective at LSC on August 1, 2017. Senate Bill 11, known as the Campus Carry law, amends the Texas Government Code and Texas Penal Code to allow license holders to carry concealed handguns on college campuses. To carry a concealed handgun on LSC campuses, an individual must have a valid License to Carry issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety. License holders may carry a concealed handgun on or about their person on LSC’s premises except within exclusion zones. LSC students, employees, and visitors on LSC’s premises or at LSC-sponsored or affiliated events are prohibited from openly carrying a handgun - holstered or not- on LSC premises. LSC has established rules and regulations regarding the enforcement of Campus Carry, which are found at LoneStar.edu/WeaponsProcedures. See also Chancellor's Procedure, II.F. For more information about Campus Carry, visit the LSC Campus Carry website at LoneStar.edu/CampusCarry. Anyone may report a visible handgun on LSC’s premises or LSC events by contacting the Lone Star College Police Department at 281-290-5911 from any phone or 5911 from a Lone Star College phone. College Police The police officers of Lone Star College are commissioned peace officers with the State of Texas and have the same law enforcement authority as other police or sheriff’s department. The officers are obligated to enforce all federal, state and local laws. The police department works with state and local police agencies as needed to ensure a safe environment for College students, staff, faculty and visitors.
32 More detailed information is available at LoneStar.edu/Police regarding campus safety and security. For 24/7 service, contact the LSC Police at 281-290-5911 (dial 5911 from any campus telephone).
33 Handbook Acknowledgement & Understanding By my signature, I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the policies, procedures and requirements to be a student of the Lone Star College Texas CDL Program. Student Name (Signature): ________________________________________ Date: _________ Student Name (Printed): __________________________________________ For additional program information, reference LoneStar.edu/Programs-of-Study/Truck-Driver-CDL For additional Lone Star College Policies and Procedures, reference LoneStar.edu/Policy
35 Entry Level Driver Training Behind-the-Wheel Self Certification I will comply with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations in parts 40, 382, 383 and 391, as well as State and/or local laws, related to alcohol and controlled substances testing, age, medical certification, licensing, and driver records, as required in 390.707(a). Student Name (Signature): ________________________________________ Date: _________ Student Name (Printed): __________________________________________
PROFESSONALTRUCK DRIVER (CDL) 1200 E Cypresswood Dr Spring, TX 77373 LoneStar.edu/CDL LoneStar.edu/TransportationGlobalLogisticsTechnologyCenter