Commitment to Students and Employees

South Suburban College (SSC) is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive educational environment for all students, employees, and visitors. SSC recognizes the diverse backgrounds and experiences of our community and remains committed to providing access to educational opportunities and support services for all individuals.

The College complies with applicable federal and state laws, including student privacy protections afforded under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and Illinois laws governing cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Know Your Rights

Individuals have constitutional and legal rights when interacting with law enforcement officials. Community members seeking legal guidance regarding immigration matters are encouraged to consult qualified immigration attorneys or recognized legal assistance organizations.

South Suburban College cannot provide legal advice regarding immigration matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

No.

The South Suburban College Police Department is responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the Community College District #510 community. SSC Police officers do not enforce federal civil immigration laws, do not inquire about an individual’s immigration status during routine law enforcement activities, and do not make arrests based solely upon immigration status.

Generally, student educational records are protected by FERPA and cannot be disclosed without the student’s consent unless otherwise authorized or required by law.

Requests for student records should be referred to the Office of Student Services and the Office of the President or designee for review and response in accordance with applicable laws and College procedures.

Employees should:

  • Remain professional and courteous.
  • Request identification, including the agent’s name, badge number, and agency affiliation.
  • Refrain from providing access to student or employee records without proper authorization.
  • Refer the individual to the appropriate College administrator.
  • Notify the South Suburban College Police Department immediately.

Employees should not independently determine the validity of warrants, subpoenas, or other legal documents.

Immediately contact:

South Suburban College Police Department
15800 South State Street
South Holland, Illinois 60473

Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: (708) 596-2000, Ext. 5705

In addition, employees should notify their immediate supervisor and the appropriate College administrator.

Generally, members of the public, including federal agents, may enter public areas of campus that are open to the public.

Examples may include:

  • Public sidewalks
  • Parking lots
  • Public lobbies
  • Open common areas
  • Publicly accessible outdoor spaces

However, non-public or restricted areas typically include:

  • Classrooms during instructional activities
  • Faculty and staff offices
  • Laboratories
  • Restricted administrative offices
  • Records storage areas
  • Police Department facilities
  • Employee-only workspaces

Access to non-public areas may require legal authorization, consent from an authorized College official, or a judicial warrant, depending on the circumstances and applicable law.

South Suburban College utilizes emergency notification systems when there is an immediate threat to the health or safety of the campus community. The College will evaluate each situation individually and provide communications consistent with legal requirements, operational considerations, and community safety needs.

Students experiencing concerns related to immigration matters, personal safety, academic challenges, or emotional well-being are encouraged to contact:

  • Office of Student Services
  • Dean of Students
  • Counseling and Wellness Services
  • Financial Aid Office
  • South Suburban College Police Department

The College will make reasonable efforts to connect students with available campus and community resources.

 

Disclaimer: This guidance is intended to provide general information and does not constitute legal advice. South Suburban College reserves the right to modify these procedures and guidance as necessary to comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.