To protect student privacy and comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as well as Washington State ethics laws governing the use of public resources, only officially enrolled students and authorized college personnel are permitted to attend scheduled class sessions. Additionally, the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) strictly prohibits the gifting of state resources under the Washington State Constitution and the Ethics in Public Service Act. Restricting classroom access ensures that public funds and state-supported instructional resources are used solely for authorized educational purposes, while also maintaining a safe and secure learning environment.
Classrooms are private, not public, spaces. Therefore, guests, observers, and other non-enrolled individuals are not permitted to attend class sessions. Exceptions may be granted for legitimate instructional purposes (e.g., approved guest speakers) only with prior authorization from the appropriate academic administrator and in accordance with Washington State ethics laws, which prohibit the use of state resources for private benefit. When approved, instructors must ensure that guest participation serves a clear educational purpose, does not compromise student privacy, and does not create a risk of unauthorized disclosure of student information. Approved visitors may not access student records, graded work, or personally identifiable information.
Unauthorized individuals will be asked to leave. Failure to comply will result in removal and/or referral to campus administration.