Disciplinary action is to be considered primarily preventative or corrective. To this end, supervisors are available to answer employee concerns and counsel with employees regarding work performance. Serious or repeat offenses, however, may result in immediate termination. Under all circumstances, prior approval of a disciplinary termination must be made by an appropriate Administrative Officer.

Causes for Disciplinary Action include, but are not limited to the following:

Poor Work
Includes incompetent, inefficient, inaccurate, careless, unsafe work practices; neglect of job; or insufficient quantity of work which is carefully substantiated or documented over a reasonable period of time.

Misconduct
Includes a variety of actions including, but not limited to damage or misuse of university property or data; software licensing and other violations of the university's Responsible Computing Policy (www.stedwards.edu/policy.htm); intoxication; possession or use of illegal drugs or controlled substances; possession or use of weapons, including handguns, rifles, knives other than pocket knives, etc.; dishonesty; gambling; theft; leaving the job without permission; fighting; falsification of timesheets, employment application, or other records or documents; secret workplace recordings; sexual harassment; or any action detrimental to job performance, a harmonious and cooperative workplace, or that interferes with the work of others.

Insubordination
Includes refusal to comply with the instructions or directions of the supervisor or other designated representative of management or adhere to published regulations.

Absenteeism
Includes violation of stated policies and procedures relating to attendance and tardiness, leaving the job without permission, extended lunch or coffee breaks.

Lack of Responsibility, Dependability, Judgment, or Cooperation
Includes failure to demonstrate the following behaviors:

1. Responsibility - Ability to adapt to new ideas, improve own methods, take care of equipment, and assume tasks independently.

2. Dependability - Sense of duty to job and work unit; general reliability.

3. Judgment - Ability to analyze problems, reach solid conclusions, use initiative and productive imagination.

4. Cooperation - Ability to work for or with others, accept discipline, and conform to policies of management; willingness to help others.

Lack of Job Knowledge
Includes inadequate background to perform job; inability to utilize training provided.

Personality/Emotional Instability
Includes behavior characteristics which negatively impact suitability for the job, such as unevenness of temperament; disruptive or unproductive reactions under stress or to unpleasant situations; or inability to work under pressure.