Waldy Javier, a discipline officer in Far Eastern University (FEU), may not have been one of the drafters of the latest edition of the Student Handbook but he knows its provisions all too well.
“I have read it carefully,” said Javier in a mix of English and Filipino. “It is important for FEU students, so I recommend for its [close reading]—from cover to cover, [so to speak].” Copies of the 285-page document are available online; physical copies are often handed during Tatak Tamaraw, “the annual week-long event that welcomes freshie-Tamaraws to the FEU community.”
Javier suggested for each student to have a hard copy as it contains a holistic guide to their experience in FEU, especially their academic and overall well-being. He is no stranger to engaging with Tamaraws as he was a security officer before his tenure at the Office of Student Discipline (OSD).
“I escorted students and endorsed their cases to OSD,” said Javier. Now that students are endorsed to him, he could say he has come full circle because he also puts into practice his learning from school.
The process
Johnelyn Tangpus, director of OSD, said Javier exhibits a strong commitment to upholding university policies while maintaining empathy and understanding toward students.
“He thoroughly follows established procedures and ensures the consistent implementation of disciplinary guidelines. When addressing student concerns, he effectively communicates violations clearly and objectively, fostering open dialogue and promoting a fair and just resolution process,” said Tangpus.
Tangpus added that Javier’s license in criminology proves highly beneficial.
“This background provides a valuable framework for understanding legal principles, investigating cases, and assessing student behavior,” said Tangpus.
Discipline officers should have the ability to effectively communicate with students, faculty, staff, and parents in a clear, concise, and empathetic manner, added Tangpus
“Strong people skills are needed. Fostering trust and maintaining a professional yet approachable demeanor is crucial for effective case management,” she said
The discipline officers are likewise expected to remain unbiased and impartial throughout the disciplinary process, which is essential to ensure fairness and justice for all parties involved, said Tangpus.
“[Discipline officers must] analyze complex situations, identify root causes of student behavior, and develop appropriate and effective interventions. [They should] manage caseloads effectively, maintain accurate records, and ensure compliance with university policies and procedures,” said Tangpus.
‘At your service’
Javier revealed that some students who had rendered community service volunteer to work beyond their credit hours, which could show the “transformative approach” that OSD is taking.
“Like teachers discipline officers assign tasks to the students brought to OSD,” said Javier. “We help each other, making sure there is proper endorsement and coordination.”
For her part, Tangpus said OSD constantly seeks ways to enhance programs to promote student growth and development.
“We believe in giving students second chances and empowering them to take responsibility and understand accountability for their actions. To achieve this, we utilize mentoring and open discussions, including focus group discussions—a new initiative within our office,” she said.
These interactions provide valuable insights into student perspectives, said Tangpus, and enable OSD to better assist students. Beyond disciplinary matters, OSD offers a variety of student services among which are addressing student welfare concerns, managing the lost and found, assessing transfer applications, and processing and releasing of Certificate of Good Moral Character requests.
Javier and Tangpus both agree that they are “fortunate to work alongside a dedicated, supportive and passionate team” at OSD. They manage and oversee sensitive cases that require a delicate balance of empathy and objectivity.
“[The OSD] team is committed to understanding the root causes of [behavior], providing support and guidance to students, ensure the promotion of a fair and just resolution process, and eventually to cultivate a positive and supportive learning environment [for all].”
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