AOD Info for Parents

Parent/Guardian Information and Resources on Alcohol and Other Drugs

High-risk behavior by college students is nothing new and first-year students are particularly susceptible during their transition to college. As partners, Kutztown University and parents can help reduce the negative consequences associated with substance use and abuse through education and healthy communication. 

  • Consequences of AOD Violations

    Parents should realize that the University's main goal is the development and success of its students. Therefore, our approach in addressing student misconduct, particularly as it relates to alcohol-related incidents, is an educational one.  At the same time, students are held accountable for decisions they make and violations of the Student Code of Conduct. We understand that everyone makes mistakes from time to time and our goal in addressing alcohol incidents is to have students reflect on a miscue and learn from their behavior so it is not repeated in the future. Parents can play a key role in this process. In partnering with the University to address student misconduct, parents can help reinforce the message that the misuse of alcohol serves no legitimate purpose and is simply not in the student's best interest.

    Students accused of violating the University's alcohol or drug policies are required to go through an on-campus student conduct process. This process deals with violations of University policy and is separate from any criminal process that a student may go through for the same incident. Typically, students who are responsible for these violations (first offense) will be issued a disciplinary reprimand or placed on disciplinary probation and assigned alcohol education. More egregious violations or repeat offenders risk more serious consequences including housing and/or University suspension. 

  • Parental Notification & Student Records

    Parental Notification of AOD Violations

    Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), colleges and universities are granted an exception to release notification that a student has been found responsible for an alcohol or drug violation. Kutztown University's policy notifies students after their first offense that they are strongly encouraged to discuss the violation with their parents and that if there are subsequent violations, a notification may be sent to their parents if they are under the age of 21.

    Educational Records Related to Violations

    FERPA sets guidelines on access to the educational records of college students. As a result of this federal legislation, student records (including student conduct incidents) are considered confidential and may not be shared with third parties, including parents and family members, without the appropriate authorization. For more information about student releases please visit KU's FERPA page.