Information for Families & Supporters

When your student is involved in a conduct case, it can be hard to know how best to help. The following guidance is intended to support you and your student through the process in a way that respects both the student’s autonomy and the University’s educational goals. 

Student Conduct Process Flowchart

Recommendations for Supporting Your Student

Expect limited disclosure, without a signed release 

CSUSM cannot share detailed information about your student’s case unless the student signs a release because of student privacy protections under FERPA. You may ask general questions about the process, timelines, and what types of outcomes are possible, but case-specific details will remain confidential unless the student permits their release. By completing a FERPA Waiver. 

Listen and let your student lead the conversation 

Your role is one of guidance and support. Encourage open dialogue. Start by listening without judgment, giving your student space to explain what happened, how they feel, and what they understand so far. Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions (“What do you think the next steps might be?” “How can we work together on this?”) rather than leaping to protect or solve the situation. 

Encourage responsibility and reflection 

One of the goals CSUSM’s conduct process is ethical development. Encourage your student to take responsibility where appropriate, consider what they’ve learned, and think through ways to repair harm or make better decisions in the future. Your calm support can strengthen their willingness to engage honestly with the process. 

Respect deadlines and process requirements 

Your student will receive notices, meeting invitations, outcome letters, and other essential communications via their URI email address. It’s important they check their email regularly and respond in a timely manner. Missing deadlines or failing to attend scheduled meetings may limit their ability to present information or contest charges. 

Help with logistics, not advocacy 

You can help your student by helping them keep track of paperwork, helping them practice what they want to say, or reminding them of deadlines. But you should avoid intervening directly in the process (for example, contacting Student Conduct & Ethical Development on their behalf, unless permitted in narrow circumstances). The student is expected to represent themselves, and hearings are built to allow students to express their own voice. 

Be prepared for different outcomes and consequences 

Outcomes are not pre-established; they most often include a status outcome such as Disciplinary Probation or Suspension (and in rare cases expulsion) and educational/restorative outcomes that may range from educational assignments and reflection exercises, restitution, attendance at alcohol and other drug programs, and more. The outcomes depend on the nature of the violation and any prior record. The outcome offers a learning opportunity, even when serious. If the student is found responsible, the resolution agreement will provide the next steps, timeline, and how to request a formal student conduct hearing. 

Consider your role after the decision 

Once the decision is final, your support remains important. Encourage your student to complete sanctions promptly, reflect on lessons learned, and re-engage positively with our academic and campus community. Help them focus on recovery and growth, rather than shame or blame. We understand that everyone makes mistakes and has lapses in judgement from time to time. 

Reach out with questions 

If you want to understand the conduct process more deeply, you’re welcome to contact Student Conduct & Ethical Development. We are housed in the Dean of Students’ suite, and the phone number is (760)750-4935. While we cannot discuss case specifics without the student’s permission, we are happy to help clarify general policies, timeline expectations, and resources. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will I be notified if my student is documented for an alleged incident?
  No. Due to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), you will not be notified of an incident. Student Conduct & Ethical Development encourages students to speak with their parent/guardian about all violations of the Standards of Student Conduct.
• Can I discuss my student’s involvement in the alleged incident with a conduct official?
  Parents/Guardians can be connected with a student conduct officer who can discuss the student conduct process with you. Details specifically related to the incident will not be discussed unless your student has provided a FERPA Waiver allowing us to discuss the student matter with you.  
• Can I attend my student’s conduct meeting?
  Students are permitted to bring one advisor to meetings or hearings according to the guidelines in the Student Conduct Process. If you are an attorney, you may only attend if the circumstances below apply. 
• Can my student have an attorney attend the conduct meeting?

  Anyone with a law degree or a licensed attorney is only permitted to serve as a Conduct Advisor in University Student Conduct Systems meetings or hearings where students: 

  1. Are involved in incidents when there is a concurrent criminal charge.
  2. Are facing Title IX/Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation charges.
  3. May be expelled from the university 

  Student Conduct & Ethical Development must receive prior notice in all instances where an attorney is requested to serve as an Advisor. The Advisor’s role, including the role of an attorney, is passive. Conduct Advisors may provide guidance and support, but do not actively participate in the student conduct process and may not speak on behalf of the student.

• Are there other advisors available who understand the student conduct process?

   We have volunteer staff trained as Student Conduct Process Advisors (SCPAs) that can help your student navigate the process. 

• My student was suspended. What does this mean? 

  Suspension is an involuntary separation from all campuses of the California State University System for a specific period of time.