Support Services

Support Services for Students

Academic Support Center

Technology Center, T217 | (425) 739-8656

The Academic Support Center (ASC) provides support to all students enrolled in academic programs, with special services provided to students in English as a Second Language (ESL), Adult Basic Education (ABE), High School 21+, and Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST). Full-time faculty in English, Math, Social Science, and English as a Second Language are available at times throughout the day to provide drop-in tutoring help to students. Staff are available to answer questions about ESL, ABE, and High School 21+ classes and also manage orientation, testing, and class placement for students in those programs. The college Transitions Office, located within the ASC, is open daily to assist students who want to enroll in an I-BEST program, a program that allows upper-level ESL and ABE students to begin college right away, building their skills in language and math while they work toward a college certificate or degree.

Adult Basic Education (ABE)

Adult Basic Education helps students improve their reading, writing, and math skills to begin work toward a high school diploma or transition into the college’s workforce or academic programs. Courses are offered both day and evening, and all of them allow students to study and complete some of their lessons online. All new students need to take a placement test, attend a program orientation class, register, and pay $25.

English as a Second Language (ESL)

The ESL program serves refugees and immigrants through day and evening classes offered at the Kirkland campus. The program offers English language learning at all levels, from beginning to advanced, for students who want to improve their English and become better parents, workers, and community members, or who want to transition to the college’s workforce or academic programs. ESL at LWTech also offers classes on special topics such as healthcare and how to conduct business in the United States, and many classes allow students to study and complete some of their lessons online. All new students need to take a placement test, attend a program orientation class, register, and pay $25.

HS21+ Adult High School Completion Pathway

The HS 21+ program believes all community members should have the chance to earn their high school diploma. High School 21+ is a competency-based program for students who are at least 21 years old. This program turns life experience into high school credits and allows students to demonstrate their knowledge in several ways, including work, life and military experience. After this prior learning is evaluated, students then fill in any gaps in their credit requirements by taking courses on such topics as math, government, science, and literature. Completion of a Washington State high school diploma prepares students to enter one of LWTech’s workforce or academic programs, and it may help them obtain the financial support to attend college.

Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST)

I-BEST is a nationally-recognized model that allows advanced ESL and ABE students to begin their college workforce or academic studies right away. It does this by having students work with two teachers in the same classroom, with one teacher presenting job skills or academic lessons and the other assisting students with building their basic skills in reading, writing, math, speaking, and listening. Students learn several topics at once, earning college credits and moving faster toward their career or education goals.  LWTech I-BEST allows students to enter academic transfer degree programs as well as workforce programs in manufacturing, allied health, and business. Information about the I-BEST program can be found in the Transitions Office housed in the ASC.    

Academic Advising

West Building, W207 | (425) 739-8300

lwtech.edu/advising | advising@lwtech.edu

As part of the college’s focus on student success we provide advisers to help each student understand placement tests, determine academic readiness in math and English, and help select appropriate classes. An adviser can help any student determine degree and certificate requirements and a sequence of courses and select general education courses.

During your first appointment with an adviser, please discuss the transfer of any other college credits. Quality planning will help each student select the right program and the right classes at the right time. Students planning to apply for any selective admission Baccalaureate or Associate degree should meet with an adviser to review degree planning steps, degree requirements, and degree progress.

Advisers can refer students to an array of college services designed to support student success. It remains the responsibility of each student to plan for program completion including degree requirements, certificate requirements, and transfer requirements. Early meetings with an adviser will make certain that educational plans stay on target.

Advising services for international students are provided by the International Programs staff.

Assessment

West Building, W204 | (425) 739-8115

lwtech.edu/assessment

A variety of assessments are offered to both students and the community.

GED®

The college offers General Education Development (GED®) in English and Spanish.

MOS & MCAS

LWTech runs an authorized certification testing center for Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) and Microsoft Certified Applications Specialist (MCAS).

Course Placement

The college provides multiple placement options for enrollment in English, math, and technical and academic classes. Students pursuing a degree or certificate must complete the guided self-placement assessment or provide high school or college transcripts, placement scores from another Washington State community or technical college, or Smarter Balanced test results.

For more information about course placement, go to lwtech.edu/admissions/assessment/tests-services.

TEAS

Dental Hygiene, Nursing, and other allied health programs require the TEAS test as part of the admission process.

Vocational Assessment

Selecting a career and an appropriate training program are major life decisions. Whether it is your first time in the employment field or you are changing careers, you are making an investment with both your time and money. Make sure it is the right decision before you start training!

To assist you in career exploration, the Employment Resource Center at Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers a free Career Choice Workshop. Explore your interests, research current occupational information and learn about resources to assist you in exploring your career options. Additional interest and personality assessments are available on an individual basis. Contact the Employment Resource Center at (425) 739-8113 for more information.

The Basic Food, Employment & Training Program

West Building, W207 | (425) 576-5811

lwtech.edu/bfet

The Basic Food, Employment & Training program is a federally funded program designed to support students receiving federal food stamps and who are enrolled in a professional-technical program or Basic Skills (ABED, ESL or GED®/HS21+).

Benefits may include:

• funding for books and related supplies
• childcare assistance through Working Connections Childcare (DSHS)
• career & educational advising
• job search assistance and resources
• eligibility for food stamps if previously denied

Bookstore

East Building, E127 | (425) 739-8108 | Fax: (425) 576-0033

lwtechshop.com

The Bookstore sells textbooks for all classes. If you are considering textbook rental, you may rent many titles, both in physical and digital form. Some digital titles are for sale as well. In addition, the Bookstore stocks course related supplies such as notebooks, binders, software, and class required kits. Most course related items are available on our website; visit www.lwtechshop.com, and then follow directions to the LWTech Bookstore. Web orders can be shipped or picked up in the store. Store hours are posted on the website and in quarterly class schedules. The store also stocks snacks, chips, sodas, energy drinks, candy, gum, and sundries.

Campus Public Safety

East Building, E145 | (425) 739-8224

lwtech.edu/safety

Your safety and security are taken seriously at the college. Trained college security and commissioned Kirkland police officers patrol the campus and are available for assistance and criminal investigations during the following times:

Information provided by law enforcement agencies concerning registered sex offenders attending the college may be obtained from the Vice President of Student Services office.

Reported Clery Crime Statistics for 2016:

Department of Education-Clery Act Report 2016; as filed October 2017

Dental Clinic

East Building, E107 | (425) 739-8130

Students receive quality dental care at a low cost in the college’s modern, fully equipped dental clinic. Licensed dentists are available by appointment to provide a wide range of dental procedures. The clinic provides students in the dental assisting and dental hygiene programs with a practical experience environment. Please call to make an appointment.

Disability Support Services

West Building, W207 | (425) 739-8300 | TDD: (425) 739-8109

lwtech.edu/dss | dssinfo@lwtech.edu

LWTech is committed to providing support services to students with disabilities in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Students who need assistance should make an appointment with the Disability Support Services (DSS) office by calling (425) 739-8300, in person in room W207, or via email at dssinfo@lwtech.edu.

Early Learning Center

South Portable, S2 | (425) 739-8117 or (425) 739-8565

lwtech.edu/elc

Convenient, quality care is available at the campus Early Learning Center for children from age eighteen months through six years. Children receive an active, stimulating program that encourages learning through experience and accomplishment. Funding programs are accepted. Please call to register a child.

Food Service & Chef City Grill

Students have several choices on campus for snacks and meals. Nutritious, quality food service is available in the cafeteria, offering well-balanced entrees daily as well as beverages and snacks.

Cafeteria hours are Monday through Friday, 7:00am-1:30pm, and closed on holidays, advising days, and administrator/faculty professional days.

In addition, the college operates Chef City Grill, a training restaurant for students in the Culinary Arts program. It is open to the public for full meal service. Hours of operation vary throughout the year. Vending machines for snacks and beverages are also available on campus.

Support for Students Experiencing Harassment

Harassment is unacceptable, against the law, and will not be tolerated on campus or at any off-campus events. The college strictly forbids harassment based on types of unlawful discrimination such as race, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, age, religion, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that may offend the recipient, cause discomfort, or humiliation and interfere with school or job performance.

If you believe you have been subjected to harassment by anyone on campus or at an off-campus event, you may
report it to the Vice President of Student Services office at (425) 739-8208 or the Executive Director of Human Resources at (425) 739-8251. Your concerns will be promptly investigated and you will not suffer retaliation for reporting your concerns.

Job Search Assistance in the Classroom

The training programs at Lake Washington Institute of Technology are practical and reality-based, relying on strong ties between industry and faculty. Job-search methods, including interviewing techniques, résumé writing, and application methods, are taught in the classroom specific to the type of industry or skill that is being learned. Instructors assist students in finding work using industry-specific job-search methods.

Job Search Assistance in the Employment Resource Center

West Building, W207 | (425) 739-8113

lwtech.edu/erc

The Employment Resource Center offers career exploration and job search assistance to students, alumni, and community members. The center is staffed by a partnership between the college, the Associated Student Government, and representatives from community-based organizations.

Services include:

• an extensive list of current job postings
• career services online - search for current jobs; apply online and post your résumé
• job search resources and assistance
• career exploration workshops and resources
• résumé, interview and networking assistance
• computer, fax, copy machine and phone are available to assist in job search
• on-campus employer recruiting opportunities and information on local job fairs

The Learning Lab

East Building, E214 | thelearninglab@lwtech.edu

lwtech.edu/learninglab

The Learning Lab offers free drop-in tutoring from faculty, staff, and certified tutors to support students in understanding course concepts and accessing resources in English, math, sciences, and more.

Library Learning Commons

Technology Center, T213 | (425) 739-8320

lwtech.edu/library

The Library Learning Commons at Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers a comfortable, flexible learning space for active learning, research, multi-media presentations, and working on collaborative projects. A dedicated and responsive team of librarians and library staff are available to support research and other information needs.

In addition, we offer:

• Databases and research resources, available on and off campus
• Faculty-provided textbooks and reserve materials for current courses
• Computers with specialized software, including an entire quiet-study computer lab, and laptops for in-library use
• Blu-Rays and DVDs (documentaries, educational resources, and popular films)
• Circulating technology (including cameras and microphones)
• Periodicals (general interest and program-specific)
• Study rooms that can be reserved.
• Teaching and Learning Center (TLC), a classroom space with computers and other technologies

The Opportunity Grant Program

West Building, W207 | (425) 739-8100, x8448

opportunitygrant@lwtech.edu

The Opportunity Grant is designed to help low income students in high demand pathways reach their educational and employment goals. Students in the Opportunity Grant program may receive:

• tuition and fees for up to 45 credits or up to 3 years, which ever comes first
• up to $1,000.00 per academic year for books and related supplies
• support services, academic advising, and career planning from an Opportunity Grant adviser
• job search assistance and resources

Eligibility guidelines for Opportunity Grant include:

• low income as determined by the FAFSA and 2016-2017 income guidelines
• Washington resident for at least 1 year
• must be in Business, Accounting, Healthcare, or I-BEST programs

Parking/Transportation

LWTech provides free parking facilities for visitors and students in both day and evening programs. Parking is not allowed along roadways or traffic lanes.

Designated spaces are available for disabled persons who display a state-issued parking sticker. For a carpool parking permit application form, please visit the Campus Public Safety Office in the East Building, 1st floor, room E145.

The Kirkland campus is conveniently located on Metro bus route 238. The Redmond campus is located on Metro bus route 253 and on ST Express Bus 545.

Supplemental Instruction (SI)

Supplemental Instruction (SI) provides academic support for academic core and technical courses. SI leaders are students who previously completed the courses they support. SI leaders assist students in class, as well as facilitate study sessions after class in the SI Study Center (room T217 in the Library Learning Commons) or assist students in the support labs for technical programs. SI leaders assist students with learning course material, understanding assignments, test prep, study skills, time management, scheduling, and more. SI leaders collaborate with faculty members in the SI Study Center to support students in targeted courses. 

Typically supported courses include math, English, physics, psychology, criminal justice, design, computing and software development, and computer security and network technology.

Smoking

LWTech is a smoke-free campus; however the college recognizes the privilege of personal choice. Smoking on campus, including the use electronic cigarettes, is limited to the following areas ONLY: the fenced and sheltered areas at the north end of the East and West wings of the East building, the smoking shelter located across the Fire Lane to the west of the Tech Center, the North, South, West and Horticulture parking lots and the Tech building outside parking area.

Student Complaints

If you believe you have been treated unfairly or wronged in some way, you should take the following steps:

• Try to resolve the issue with the person involved
• Talk to the person’s direct supervisor
• Request an appeal through the appropriate Vice President

More information is available in the student handbook.

Student Conduct Code

LWTech has specific expectations regarding the conduct of those involved in the college community. Students are expected to comply with the college student conduct code, WAC 495D-121, and failure to do so may result in disciplinary actions, up to and including dismissal from the college. The student conduct code is available in the student handbook, on the college website and in the college Policy and Procedure Manual located in the library.

Student Email

All admitted students receive a college email address and server storage. All students must check this email for announcements about college business including: registration information, enrollment dates, special programs, scholarships, and up-to-date announcements about college closures. To log on to your email visit lwtech.edu/email and follow the step by step instructions. Your initial password is your birthday in MMDDYY format. This email may be forwarded to a more familiar email address. For questions, email helpdesk@lwtech.edu.

Student Protections

No one in the college community shall suffer recrimination or discrimination because of participation in the due process grievance procedure. Confidentiality will be observed pending resolution. A grievance shall be considered resolved if timelines are not maintained. 

TRiO Student Support Services Projects

East Building, E214 | (425) 739-8361

TRiO Student Support Services (SSS) Project: Provides academic support for eligible first-generation and/or low-income students.

TRiO Support Services for Students with Disabilities (SSSD) Project: Provides academic support for eligible students with documented disabilities.

LWTech’s two Student Support Services Projects are federally funded and established for the purpose of assisting eligible students in achieving their postsecondary ambitions. Students are encouraged to complete their associate degree or certificate program and, whenever feasible, transfer to a 4-year institution. TRiO provides supportive services such as tutoring, a learning lab, academic counseling, educational planning, study skills workshops, transfer, career planning, financial education, scholarship workshops and counseling.

To be eligible for TRiO Projects, you must:

• be a citizen, national, or permanent resident of the United States
• be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at LWTech and in a technical program
• be a first-generation and/or low-income student OR a student with a documented disability (first-generation means that neither the student nor the student’s parents/guardians has a bachelor’s degree)
• be able to meet the need for academic services criteria as established by LWTech’s TRiO Projects
• complete a TRiO application packet and entry interview.
• be able to meet with TRiO staff at least three times per quarter

Applications are available in E214 or by calling (425) 739-8361 or (425) 739-8353.

All services are through grants from the U.S. Department of Education. However, the contents have not been reviewed by the Department and no endorsement should be inferred. The Lake Washington Institute of Technology Student Support Services TRiO Projects are 100% federally funded annually at $450,884.00

WorkFirst Programs

West Building, W207 | (425) 739-8339

The goal of WorkFirst is to assist TANF families, through training and basic education, to move permanently off all forms of public assistance and to become self-sufficient. There are a number of options within the WorkFirst program to help families attain this goal.

Students must be receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) from DSHS. TANF families may be eligible for:

• tuition and book assistance
• individualized support to reach their goals
• educational and career planning
• job search assistance and resources

Worker Retraining

West Building, W207 | (425) 739-8206

worker.retraining@lwtech.edu

The Worker Retraining program at LWTech provides specific services to students that meet eligibility requirements under these circumstances:

• laid off from work - currently receiving unemployment benefits or exhausted benefits in the last 48 months
• displaced homemakers - through divorce, separation, death, or other circumstances, you are no longer supported by the income of a partner in your home
• self-employed and are now unemployed due to general economic conditions
• currently working but are vulnerable to lay-off
• military veterans discharged in the last 48 months or current active duty

Services may include:

• tuition and book assistance
• educational planning
• development of an individual training plan
• priority registration
• career and job search assistance
• assistance with CAT/TB applications

Student Life and Leadership

www.lwtech.edu/student_life

Student Programs

East Building, E128 | (425) 739-8314

Student life is about getting involved, connecting to your campus community, and building your leadership skills. There are many ways to be involved in student life at the college. Being selected as an Associated Student Government officer, volunteering for Student Programs, joining or starting a student organization, or participating in the many campus life activities are some examples. Visit Student Programs to learn more about these opportunities.

Associated Student Government

East Building, E128 | (425) 739-8314

Associated Student Government Executive Board

“To enhance the student experience by planning activities and providing representation to build a feeling of community.”

An active student government at LWTech provides excellent leadership opportunities for students as well as a forum for student issues and student activities.

The Associated Student Government is a group of students annually selected to represent the concerns and successes of all LWTech students. They work as a 5-member board that throughout the year meet weekly, support student success, and represent students to the LWTech Administration. Meetings are open to all students and any student may bring a concern or idea to the Board. To be an Executive Board Officer, contact the Associated Student Government in East Building, E128. All officer positions are open each year, in spring quarter. When vacancies occur, the Associated Student Government selection committee is responsible for filling those vacancies.

Associated Student Government Committees

Yearly, ASG looks for students to serve on various college committees, including college cabinet, faculty tenure committees, ASG services and activities budget development, ASG technology fee budget development, and hiring committees. These committees are a great way to volunteer your time to the college and learn how the college operates. You are able to provide your thoughts and ideas about the college as a student who experiences campus life. Committees often have a short volunteer time so these opportunities fit into any schedule.

Services and Activities Fee

The Associated Student Government Executive Board and Board of Trustees annually approve a Services and Activities fee included in tuition. Among other things, this fee makes up a student focused budget which is used to fund student clubs, conference travel for students, lectures, on campus employment, childcare services and emergency grants for students. Please take advantage of these services and more by getting involved.

Technology Fee

A technology fee assessed to almost all students for the improvement of technology found in and out of classrooms. The ASG Executive Board pursued the technology fee, based on the feedback received from the student body. Annually, the ASG assembles a student-focused committee to assign funding to submitted proposals. To work with this committee contact ASG in East Building, E128.

Student Activities

Student Programs sponsors a variety of campus life programs throughout the year. Look for advertisements, fliers, or website announcements. Different activities have been social activities, charitable events, speakers, and leadership workshops.

Student Clubs and Organizations

Any student may charter a club through Student Programs. Clubs offer leadership and learning opportunities and help you take advantage of ways to enhance your college experience. Many clubs are funded through ASG with the services and activities fee paid through student tuition. Club meetings are open to anyone from the college community. Students involved in clubs can compete nationally for recognition, travel to conferences, develop lasting industry networks, and meet new people. It’s a great way to learn about LWTech and your industry.

Student ID Cards

Photo identification cards are available at no extra charge for currently enrolled students at the Enrollment Services office in West Building room 201, during posted hours. ID cards serve as the Library card, provide access to college services, and act as your printing card. To receive an ID card bring picture identification and student identification number to Enrollment Services. Cards are valid throughout enrollment. Replacement cards cost $2.

Student Lounges and Open Space

LWTech has many open spaces for students to gather. These spaces are managed by the college and are intended for students to gather, meet friends, hold study groups, and take a break between classes. If you encounter any issues with furniture or the surroundings please contact Facilities and Operations in E199.

RISE Center

East Building, E126 | (425) 739-8693

The RISE Center: Resources for Inclusion, Support, and Empowerment aims to build an equitable and inclusive campus community for all students through educational programs and advocacy. Additionally, the center is a support service for students from traditionally underrepresented and underserved backgrounds, such as students from minoritized ethnic/racial groups, students with disabilities, first-generation college students (those who are the first in their family to attend/graduate from college), and members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) community.

Meditation Room

Technology Building, T118

The Associated Student Government, in partnership with Facilities and Operations, has designated Technology Building, T118 as LWTech’s Meditation Room. This is a room allocated for those in need of a quiet space on campus to engage in meditation, prayer, or silent reflection. It is intended to be a safe and inclusive environment. Usage of the Meditation Room is on first-come, first-served basis, and only LWTech students, staff, and faculty are eligible to use the room during designated open hours. The room is managed by the RISE Center staff. Any questions or concerns about the Meditation Room can be directed to the RISE Center by calling (425) 739-8693 or stopping by the center in East Building, E126.