Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Opportunity & Non-Discrimination Statement

Lotus Medical Career College (LMCC) is committed to providing an inclusive learning environment and workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and retaliation. LMCC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, primary language, religion or creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

This commitment applies to all educational programs, services, activities, and outcomes, including but not limited to:

• Admissions and program access
• Enrollment and registration
• Academic instruction and clinical training
• Student financial aid and tuition assistance
• Student services and support
• Grading and academic standing
• Externships, clinical placements, and practicum experiences
• Recruitment and communications
• Use of facilities and resources

Legal Basis for This Policy

LMCC's commitment to non-discrimination is mandated by and complies with the following federal and state laws:

• Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (race, color, national origin)
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (sex discrimination)
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (disability accommodations)
• Age Discrimination Act of 1975
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title II
• California Education Code Section 220
• California Government Code Section 11135
• California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA)
• WIOA Section 188 and 29 CFR Part 38
• BPPE Regulations
• CDPH Requirements

Protected Characteristics

LMCC prohibits discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based on any of the following:

Title IX Coordinator & Civil Rights Compliance

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and other applicable civil rights laws, LMCC designates the following individual to coordinate compliance:

Coordinator Responsibilities

• Receiving Reports: Collecting reports of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation
• Initial Assessment: Promptly assessing the nature and scope of reported concerns
• Supportive Measures: Offering interim measures to affected individuals
• Investigation Coordination: Ensuring fair, prompt, and impartial investigations
• Compliance Monitoring: Overseeing institutional compliance with civil rights laws
• Training & Education: Providing civil rights information to students and staff

Pregnancy & Parenting Student Accommodations

Under Title IX's 2024 amendments, LMCC provides reasonable accommodations to students affected by pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions.

Available Accommodations

• Class Breaks: Breaks during classes for lactation, bathroom access, eating
• Excused Absences: Medically necessary absences up to 4 weeks without medical certification
• Clinical Training Modifications: Adjustments to schedules and physical requirements
• Extended Deadlines: Extensions for assignments due to pregnancy-related absences
• Leave of Absence: Temporary leave with opportunity to return to same academic standing
• Lactation Accommodations: Access to private spaces for pumping or nursing

Section 504 Disability Accommodations

LMCC provides reasonable accommodations to qualified students with disabilities to ensure equal access to all educational programs, services, and activities.

Academic Accommodations (Examples)

• Extended time for exams
• Separate, distraction-reduced testing environment
• Use of assistive technology
• Note-taking support
• Preferential seating
• Alternative formats for course materials
• Flexibility in attendance policies for medical appointments
• Modified clinical schedules

Prohibited Conduct

Discrimination

Discrimination is any adverse action based on a protected characteristic that denies a student access to or participation in LMCC's programs, services, or activities.

Harassment

Harassment is unwelcome conduct based on a protected characteristic that is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive such that it creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

Retaliation

Retaliation is prohibited against any individual who reports discrimination, participates in an investigation, or requests accommodations.

Reporting Discrimination, Harassment, or Retaliation

External Reporting Agencies

You also have the right to file complaints with external agencies:

Investigation & Resolution Process

1. Receipt & Assessment: LMCC acknowledges receipt and assesses the nature and urgency
2. Supportive Measures: Interim measures offered to protect the reporting party
3. Notice: Both parties receive written notice of allegations
4. Investigation: Prompt, fair investigation (generally 30-60 days)
5. Determination: LMCC determines whether policy was violated
6. Corrective Action: Remedies implemented if violation found
7. Appeal: Parties may appeal the outcome

WIOA & Workforce Development Compliance

LMCC is an approved Eligible Training Provider (ETPL) under California's WIOA system. LMCC assures that:

• All WIOA-funded programs are operated without discrimination
• Students receive equal opportunity regardless of protected characteristics
• Reasonable accommodations are provided to individuals with disabilities
• Language assistance is available for individuals with limited English proficiency

Contact Information

Lotus Medical Career College is committed to equal opportunity for all students and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics. This policy is effective as of January 1, 2025, and was last updated December 6, 2025.