Story by: Viviana Valencia, Editor-In-Chief
Photo Courtesy of Cypress Chronicle Archives
Cypress College welcomed students back to campus after the winter break this week. As students adjust to their schedules, the college continues to provide resources for students to get assistance.
Due to the recent increase in the presence of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Orange County, the college has made its “Know Your Rights” resources accessible to all students.
The campus resource page provides essential tools that can help students navigate important legal and institutional matters with confidence. This includes links to Resolution No. 16/17-18, a resolution outlining support for students’ privacy rights and protections related to their student records.
Another resource is the North Orange County Community College District Protocol for Immigration-Related Requests. This protocol details how the campus responds to any immigration-related inquiries or requests, ensuring students’ rights and privacy are upheld.
These resources are designed to protect students, especially those who are undocumented or mixed-status students, and to ensure they have the information they need to feel secure and supported while pursuing their education.
Additionally, students are invited to attend the UndocuAdvocate Training, a professional development opportunity focused on deepening our collective understanding of the lived experiences of undocumented and mixed-status students in higher education.
A new program called the Charger Assessment Team is a collaborative campus initiative designed to help students in need and address concerns that may arise throughout the semester. ChAT is made up of four specialized referral branches: ChATCares, ChATConduct, ChATTitleIX and ChATThreatAssessment.
ChATCares is used for submitting a ChATCares referral for a student who may be struggling or facing challenges that could affect their well-being or engagement in class. This helps connect the student with appropriate support services.
ChATConduct is used when a potential violation of the BP5500: Standards of Student Conduct is observed, such as disruptive behavior or violations of campus policies, allowing students to have access to a timely and effective intervention.
ChATTitleIX is for concerns related to discrimination, harassment or sexual misconduct, providing a way for students to report these issues confidentially and receive the necessary support.
ChATThreatAssessment is for situations where there is concern that a student may pose a risk to themselves or others. Submitting a ChATThreatAssessment report helps ensure that the campus responds appropriately, maintaining the safety and well-being of all students.
For any of the above concerns, a report can be submitted directly through the ChAT webpage. In the case of an emergency, always contact Campus Safety at (714) 484-7387 or call 911 immediately.
The Academic Computing Technologies Helpdesk has returned to its normal operating hours this semester from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. They can help with technical issues, setting up software and navigating campus systems.
As the semester begins, here are some tips to help stay organized and balance academic and personal well-being.
Remain organized by creating a schedule that allows time for studying, attending classes and completing assignments. Keeping a planner or using digital tools can help track deadlines and stay on top of coursework.
Prioritize mental and physical health by balancing workload with time for relaxation and physical activity. Consider using mindfulness techniques, exercise or socializing with friends to help reduce stress.
Do not be afraid to seek help. Use ChAT, the counseling center and academic tutoring to help.
Take advantage of professional development; students should consider attending events like the UndocuAdvocate Training to deepen their knowledge, build community, and enhance their skills for both personal and professional growth.
Make sure to stay up to date with Cypress Chronicle News by visiting our website: https://cychron.cypresscollege.edu/
