Parental Notification Policy for Alcohol and Other Drug Violations

The University of Maine Parental Notification Policy allows the institution to notify parents of certain behaviors committed by students that are prohibited by the Student Conduct Code.  Federal law, the Higher Education Amendments of 1998, permits educational institutions to disclose, to parents or legal guardians, information regarding a student’s violation of any federal, state or local law or educational institution’s rule or policy which governs the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance.  Accordingly, it is the policy of the University to notify parents or guardians of students under the age of 21 when the student has been found responsible for any second drug or alcohol related offense in violation of the Student Conduct Code, federal, state, or local law.

It is also University policy to notify parents or guardians of students under the age of 21 when any of the following offenses occur, even on the first offense:   

• The student has caused harm to any person while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• The student was arrested or taken into custody by police while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• The student was responsible for vandalism or other destruction of property while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• The student was operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• The student was transported to a medical facility and treated because of alcohol or other drug use.
• The student has been found responsible for an alcohol or drug-related violation that may result in suspension or dismissal from the University, or removal from campus housing.
• Other circumstances determined by the Dean of Students, or his or her designee.

The University of Maine’s parental notification policy is further established to foster a safer campus community, promote the academic success of students and promote student health. 

University policy attempts to strike an appropriate balance between the interests and developmental needs of students and the interests of and supportive opportunities provided by the involvement of parents or guardians.  Parental notification will not typically occur until the student's avenues of appeal have been exhausted, except with cases where lengthy appeal delays may unnecessarily prevent timely notification.  However, nothing in these guidelines shall prevent University officials from notifying parents or guardians of health or safety emergencies, regardless of the judicial status of the student. 

Parents or guardians will be contacted by the Dean of Students or his or her designee. Whenever possible, students will be notified in advance that their parents or guardians are to be contacted.

Last Revised/Approved: May, 2007
Information Contact: Division of Student Affairs