I. Call to Order/Roll Call
The meeting was called to order by President
Dianne McKay at 2:07 p.m.
| A | P | A | P | ||
| Chiang (Ext. 3424) Math | X | Hudak (Ext.3419) ESL | X | ||
| Collins (Ext.2708) StudDev | X | McKay (Ext. 3418) Pres | X | ||
| Cordero(Ext. 3142) Stud Dev | X | Monroe (Ext. 3349) Tech | X | ||
| Cowels (Ext.3301) AAS | X | Patton (Ext. 3402) Comm | X | ||
| DelFrate (Ext. 3339)CommSv | X | Seragoso (Ext. ) AssocFac | X | ||
| Flolo (Ext.3309) AAS | X | Smith (Ext.3223) CommServ | X | ||
| Hill (Ext. 3366) CATA | X | Wilson (Ext. 3407) Comm | X |
II. Approval of the Minutes
The minutes for the December 10, 1998, meeting
were accepted and approved as submitted (M/S/U - DelFrate/Wilson).
III. Order of the Agenda
The Senators agreed to reorder the agenda
as follows (M/S/U - Cowels/Collins):
Items VIII.B and VIII.C will be addressed
immediately after Item VI.
IV. Oral Communication from the Public
There was no oral communication from the public at today's meeting.
V. Information & Announcements
1. Congratulations to Carol Toppel, who has been selected as a team member by the state Chancellor's Office to conduct DSPS Program Reviews systemwide.
2. The Spring Plenary Session of the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges will
be held in San Francisco, April 15-17, 1999. President McKay advised that there is funding
to send a number of Senators to the session, and she encouraged those interested in attending
to advise the Senate office as soon as possible. The Area B meeting, which is a precursor to
the Spring Session will be held March 26, 1999, at Diablo Valley College. Senate members
will preview resolutions brought by area community colleges and/or propose new resolutions
for presentation at the spring session.
3. Diversity in Teaching & Learning in American Higher Education Conference will be held in
San Diego, March 31-April 3, 1999. The conference topic is, "Crossing Cultures: Communicating Through the Curriculum." Additional information is available from the Senate Office.
4. The college administration would like to send four faculty members to the Commitment to Diversity in Teaching Colloquia, to be held in Monterey, April 22-24, 1999. Interested faculty
should contact the Senate Office (Ext. 2783).
5. The Board of Trustees meeting scheduled
for February 18, 1999, in the Board Room at West Valley College
(7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) will be a strategic conversation on Shared
Governance. Bill Scroggins, President of the Academic Senate
for CCC's, and David Viar, President of CCLC, will present on
the subject and participate in the discussion. Dianne encouraged
all the Senators to attend as this is an extremely important and
timely subject matter.
VI. Administrative Business/Actions/Appointments
A. Curriculum Committee - The Curriculum Committee has not met yet this semester.
B. Staff Recognition - No resolutions were presented at today's meeting.
C. Committee Appointments - No committee appointments were made today. Dianne asked the Senators to recruit members to serve on the Hiring Committees for Librarians and a replacement for Don Cordero on the Flex Committee. Another call for volunteers will be issued from the Senate office as well.
D. Oral Reports
1. Workforce Development Committee - No report was made at today's meeting.
2. Technology Committee - No report was made at today's meeting.
3. PFE Steering Committee - Laurie Collins and Judi Smith reported that discussions at recent meetings of the committee focused on the split of funds, which will be in accordance with the budget allocation model. The colleges will determine the internal process for allocation of funds by February 1, 1999. Requests for proposals will be accepted until February 19, 1999. The committee will continue to meet to develop recommendations on process for the disbursement of funds. President McKay noted that Bill Scroggins, President of the ASCCC, has reminded local Senates that these funds are not categorical funds, and, as outlined in Title 5 and in our district policy, one of the Senate's responsibilities is to develop budget processes and the District's Board of Trustees has agreed to rely primarily on the advice of the Senate. Hence, the process should be determined within the shared governance process as outlined. Ian noted that the state Chancellor's Office is extremely interested in assuring the legislature that the funds are being used to aid student success.
4. Others:
a) Budget Allocation Model Review Committee - Don Cordero, Chair of the committee, reported that Randy Castello, Rick Lee, Ron Mayorga, Bill Dacanay, Bruce Robertson, Regina Stanback-Stroud, Dan Matarangas, and Cathy Vance also serve on the committee. The committee's charge is to review the budget process and allocation model and develop recommendations for consideration. He noted that Mission College has received 90% of the growth money through an agreement between the college presidents rather than a process.
b) Update on Status of EDI - Dianne
reported that Elaine Gaertner, a consultant from Ed<NET has
been working with the district regarding EDI. Marjorie Knowles
reported that she, Regina, Fred Prochaska, Gary Hubbard, and Pam
Luster met with the consultant and discussed the definition of
EDI and economic development from a philosophical and practical
point of view. There was also discussion on grants, where they
should come from, and how they should be staffed. Discussion
on future grants indicated that they should originate from within
the colleges. Ian confirmed that the state intends to move in
that direction.
As agreed, the Order of the Agenda was suspended
and moved to Items VIII.B and VIII.C to accommodate guests.
VIII. New Business
B. Discuss The Membership & Charge of Reorganized Technology Committee
Chris Moyers reported on the current status
of the newly reorganized Technology Committee. The purpose of
the committee is to assist instructors and departments that want
to develop and offer telecourses. One concern is how to ensure
that the telecourse is equivalent to courses offered at the college.
At this time, prepackaged courses are being offered, and in essence,
the instructor is proctoring a "canned" course.
President McKay stated that this is a Senate
Committee, and it is important and appropriate for the Senate
to define the committee's charge and membership. Ian remarked
that the Curriculum Committee is reviewing regulations regarding
distance learning courses. A draft position paper from the state
academic Senate asks for new, clear language regarding effective
student/teacher contact.
Ultimately, it was agreed that a subcommittee
of the Senate will be formed to develop a charge dealing with
pedagogy, dissemination relative to campus courses, audience
population, and basic skills validation. The subcommittee will
also consider the committee's membership. Dianne, Ian Walton,
Jane Patton, and Chris Moyers volunteered to serve on the subcommittee
and will report back to the Senate on its progress.
C. Report on Impact of Grants on College Operations
Dianne introduced Marjorie Knowles, the new
Grants Liaison for Mission College, and opened discussion on the
impact of grants on the college's operations. Senator Cowels
noted that Innovation Grant applications were not awarded until
January 15th, which made it difficult for the Department Chairs
and faculty to plan for the semester.
Discussion revolved around the number of faculty
on release time and how it has had a negative impact on some departments,
particularly small departments. Jane remarked that the whole picture
must be considered; a number of faculty are on banked leaves;
reorganization released faculty for administrative duties; and
the college's growth skewed the full-time/part-time ratio. The
trend in education today is to seek grants, even at the elementary
school level, and that trend is not likely to change. It was
stated that the basic function of this institution is to teach
the students, and many departments are hampered by the number
of faculty on release time. Don spoke to the charge and intent
of the Balance of Curriculum Committee, which was to take control
of the direction of the college. It is important to consider
what people are doing outside of the classroom to determine if
it is appropriate for the college. Yet, there is no intent to
discourage faculty participation in grants.
It was agreed that the Senate needs specific
data regarding the number of faculty on released time for grants,
banked leaves, etc. Marji agreed to research the data and report
back to the Senate. It was suggested that Marji research models
from universities as well.
The order of agenda was resumed.
VII. Old Business
A. Update Report on Status of Global Ed
Joan Powers, Chair of the MC Global Ed Committee,
provided information on the committee's charge, the structure
of the Global Ed program, calendar events, and a three year plan
(1998-2001) for the program. The goal of the Global Education
Program is to raise global awareness and increase global competency
among Mission College's students, staff, faculty, and community
members. Seven new global focus courses are being developed,
and the first six are designed to be cross-listed in traditional
departments and in Global Studies.
The Institute for International Studies has
approximately 50 students enrolled, and it is anticipated that
the program will grow under a full-time director. The program
produced ample revenue last year, some of which was allocated
to EDI and Contract Ed. Global Studies is supported by a grant,
offers an AA Degree and Certificate, and currently has two courses
to offer students. Joan expressed frustration that although the
college endorsed the concept of global education ten years ago,
the program is not a department and is not eligible for FTE.
A request for a faculty position will be submitted; grant funds
can be used to release faculty to help develop additional courses.
Joan advised, however, that the grant funding ends next year.
Activities will disappear unless support and resources come from
within the college.
The calendar of events includes guest speakers paid for with grant funds; people with high profiles of celebrity are sought to advertise the program. The next guest speaker scheduled is Angela Davis, and discussion led into the next agenda item.
VIII. New Business
A. Discuss Support for a Presentation by Angela Davis for Global Ed Committee
Joan asked the Senate to endorse Angela Davis'
visit to speak at Mission College on Women's Human Rights, in
keeping with Women's History Month. Dianne explained that Don
Wolfe, a member of the Board of Trustees, has expressed concern
dealing with Ms. Davis' speaking engagement at Mission College.
Dianne advised the Senate of Mr. Wolfe's specific concerns on
this matter, and that he intended to raise the question at tonight's
Board meeting. She asked the Senators to consider his concerns
and provide her with direction on how to proceed at tonight's
Board meeting.
A lengthy discussion ensued on the purpose
of a teaching institution, critical thinking, the first amendment
to the constitution, and academic freedom. It was agreed that
the issue is fundamental to what this institution is about, and
the college should be open to a full spectrum, providing information
on all sides of issues. President McKay read the following excerpts
of the district's adopted Academic Freedom Policy (Article 4.9):
(4.9.1 Last paragraph) "Society is best
served when the teacher and scholar feel free to criticize and
advocate change in any theories and beliefs, however widely held,
and in any existing social, political and economic institutions.
It is not easy for faculty to dissent and to advocate unpopular
ideas; it is almost always to their personal disadvantage to do
so. But it is to the advantage of society to encourage them;
only thus will society be aware of the full range of social, political
and cultural choices available to it; and only thus can the democratic
ideal be fulfilled."
(4.9.2 Last paragraph) "From time to
time in the history of higher education in California and elsewhere,
advocates of particular social, moral, political or aesthetic
positions attempt by violence, lawlessness or political and social
pressures to interfere with academic freedom. At such times,
West Valley-Mission Community College District faculty have a
special responsibility to see that their own actions do not interfere
with the freedom of others. They have further responsibility
to insist that their institution does not yield to ephemeral passion
or heavy community pressures to take hasty actions that may infringe
on freedom of expression."
The following motion was made passed unanimously
(M/S/U - Patton/Cordero):
"In accordance with District policy on
Academic Freedom and the First Amendment, the Mission College
Academic Senate endorses the invitation from the Global Education
Committee to Angela Davis to present at Mission College."
Discussion continued, noting that a series
of similar incidents have occurred over the past few years that
raise serious concerns regarding academic freedom. The Senators
directed Ian Walton and President McKay to discuss and review
the Senate's concerns with the Chancellor. It was also recommended
that Pat Andrews, ACE grievance officer, and Jim Wilczak, President
of the WVC Academic Senate, be invited as well. The group is
to report back to the Senate.
It was also suggested that the Senators discuss the issue of Global Education Studies with their constituents to determine if the college should head in that direction and report back to the Senate for further discussion this semester. Senator Hudak noted that Global Education is part of the mission of California Community Colleges, and the request for a faculty member will be discussed at the joint meeting of the Division Chair Council and the Academic Senate.
D. Revisit Philosophical Plan re: Interdisciplinary Location of Faculty Offices
Dianne explained that this item deals with
placement of offices for the 21 new faculty members that are to
be hired. The Senate will consider how to best serve the new
faculty members. This item will be brought back for further discussion.
IX. President's Reports
1. District Council (January 13) - Several topics were discussed in addition to reviewing the Board Agenda. These included potential topics for Strategic Conversations through June, a recommendation for a pilot process for surveying faculty/staff as a part of evaluating the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, and College Presidents, and support for classified staff to participate in shared governance.
2. Others:
a) Division Chair Council (January 20) - Discussion occurred on many topics including updates on new faculty hires, marketing the college, updates from the library, enrollment, and support for makeup testing in the Testing Center.
b) DBAC (January 20) - CBAC approved revised dates for the FY00 budget process which will be sent to all via e-mail. Discussion occurred around guiding priorities for the FY00 budget process. What should guide the decision-making on allocations, but further the direction of the college. CBAC approved a recommendation from Performance Goals regarding release time for department chairs being based on total FTEf in the department (both one time and on-going) as opposed to simply on-going FTEf . Additional funding is available from a $71K Block Grant for FY99 and so additional projects were approved from the FY99 priority list.
c) Meetings w President Cepeda (January 11 and January 20) - Discussed Flex Day Presentation on PFE and other issues of important to the college's future direction.
d) State Academic Senate Report from Ian Walton - Ian attended the monthly executive committee meeting in Los Angeles during break (January 8 and 9). The following are some items of interest from the two day agenda:
1) In the final days before leaving office, Governor Wilson appointed Irene Menmegas of Diablo Valley College to the Board of Governors. Several unconfirmed Wilson appointees are not expected to be confirmed by Governor Davis.
2) Dates for the Spring 99 Academic Senate Plenary Session are April 15-17, 1999, at the San
Francisco Airport Westin.
3) Vice Chancellor Vickie Morrow (state) described possible changes in Ed<NET away from a
competitive process towards more integration with college activities.
4) A legal opinion from Ralph Black appears to permit compensation for part-time senators by clearly establishing that senate service does not count towards 60% load.
5) Mission appears to have an unusually low number of courses listed in the CAN system.
Why?
6) There is still major concern over delegation of positions on legislation to the state
Chancellor's Office.
7) There will be a senate cosponsored student leadership institute in Monterey in June (6th- 9th). Is funding available for any of our student leaders?
8) Ian was appointed to the Special Projects Advisory Review Council which reviews grant
applications for the Fund for Instructional
Improvement.
X. Correspondence, Publications, & Announcements
Correspondence
1. Letter dated January 14, 1999, from the state Academic Senate regarding the current state Technology Plan and its funding.
2. Memo dated November 30, 1998, from Dr. Cepeda re: Budget Sub-Committee Meeting of
November 18.
3. Letter dated December 16, 1998, from the state Academic Senate re: hearings on proposed
revisions to the Disciplines List.
4. Letter dated January 12, 1999, re: a call for faculty to read VATEA grant applications for the
fiscal year 1999-2000.
5. Letter dated January 1999, re: Parliamentary Procedure Program for CCCs.
6. Letter dated December 10, 1998, from the state Chancellor's Office re: CalWORKS Funding for Instruction.
Publications/Minutes
1. The November issue of The News, from the CCLC.
2. The minutes for the November 18, 1998, meeting of the M-WV Land Corporation, and its agenda for January 21, 1999.
3. The minutes for the December 2, 1998, meeting of DBAC.
4. Two position papers adopted at The Academic Senate for CCC's Fall 1998 Plenary session re: Part-Time Faculty participation and the Future of the Community College.
5. Booklet of resolutions passed at the Fall 1998 Plenary Session of the ASCCC.
6. The agenda for the January 13, 1999, meeting of the District Council.
7. The November and December issues of UPDATE from the ASCCC.
Announcements/Conferences
1. A conference sponsored by The Center for the Study of Diversity in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education has issued a Call for Presentations for its 1999 National Conference, Diversity in Teaching and Learning in American Higher Education, Crossing Cultures: Communicating through the Curriculum." The conference will be held in San Diego, March 31-April 3, 1999. Additional information is available from the Senate Office.
2. The college administration would like to send four faculty members to the Commitment to Diversity in Teaching Colloquia, to be held in Monterey, April 22-24, 1999. Interested faculty
should contact the Senate Office (Ext. 2783).
3. The AAHE National Conference will be held in Washington, D.C., March 2023, 1999, on "Organizing for Learning."
4. The Accrediting Commissions for Community & Junior Colleges will be held in Palm Springs,
April 19-21, 1999, and hosted by the College of the Desert.
5. The Technology in Education International Conference & Exposition will be held in Ontario, California, April 21-24, 1999.
6. The second annual conference on "The Prospects of Education in the Global Environment" will be held in Sacramento, February 18-20, 1999.
7. The CCA Winter Advocacy Conference &
Council, "Powering Up: Training Leadership," will be
held in San Pedro, February 27, 1999
XI. Future Agenda Items
1. Discuss Hours by Arrangement at next District
Academic Senate meeting (Cordero).
The meeting was adjourned at 4:04 p.m. (M/S/U - Hudak/Collins). These minutes are respectfully submitted by Grace Hazán, Academic Senate Secretary.