It is the goal of CCA to maintain a safe and healthy environment where the arts can flourish and grow. The college strives to provide this environment for all students, faculty, and staff. The policies detailed on the following pages apply to all members of the college community unless otherwise specifically stated.

The college, as an employer and educator, is concerned about the use and effects of alcohol and illicit drugs. In addition, in compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989, the college is required to establish a drug-free campus policy and awareness program. The college is committed to publishing and distributing information about the dangers of alcohol and drug (substance) abuse; available counseling, rehabilitation, and assistance; and penalties associated with substance abuse.

The college's goal of maintaining an academic environment free from the use and influence of alcohol and unlawful drugs requires the following standards of conduct be enforced at all times. It is expected that all members of the college community conduct themselves in a manner that ensures a drug- and alcohol-free learning and working experience. Being under the influence of any drug or alcoholic beverage while on the job or at the college poses serious risks to individuals’ health and safety.

The college absolutely prohibits the use, sale, purchase, transfer, or possession of any illegal or non prescribed drug by any individual at any time. In addition, the college strictly prohibits individuals from being under the influence of alcohol or any drug while on duty, in classes, living in college housing, or performing college business, including driving college-owned or college-leased vehicles. Only legally prescribed medications are excluded from this rule and are permitted to the extent that the use of such medications does not adversely affect the individual's work ability, job performance, or student performance, or the safety of that individual or others.

It is also expected that all students, faculty, and staff will be considered "fit for duty" while on college premises or conducting college business. Inability to perform work safely and efficiently or absences considered excessive shall be cause for concern and could result in disciplinary action up to and including termination and dismissal depending on the frequency and seriousness of the occurrences.

The college receives Federal Financial Aid funding. The Federal Government currently does not recognize Medical Use (CA Prop 215) and Recreational Use (CA Prop 69) of Marijuana. Therefore, use of the substance is not permitted on campus, campus owned/leased properties, and residential life housing units.

It is the individual's responsibility to seek assistance or intervention for alcohol or drug abuse or dependency. Personal concerns may be discussed confidentially with the director of counseling services, but will not be expected to preclude discipline for prior acts.

Consultation, assessment, and referral are also available for students through the college's counseling services. These services are confidential and free of charge to the limits of the service protocols. Appointments may be made by contacting the administrative assistants in the Student Affairs offices or the director of counseling services.

A comprehensive list of off-campus resources is available from the Counseling Services and Student Affairs offices. Staff and faculty who enroll in a formal treatment program may request rehabilitation leave on a full-time or part-time basis for periods up to ninety days. As with any other sick leave, the leave may include a combination of sick time, vacation time, and leave without pay.

Leave will not be granted where termination for prior acts is warranted. Faculty requests for rehabilitation leave may be handled directly with the Academic Affairs Office or with the assistance of the vice president of Human Resources.