Mission College Academic Senate

Ext. 5413

Unapproved  Minutes

Thursday, May 17, 2001

 

I.       Call to Order/Roll Call

            The meeting was called to order by President Dianne McKay at 2:08 p.m. 

Senators

   A

   P

Senators

   A

   P

Akers-Martin   (Ext. 5092)Comm

    

    X

Monroe  (Ext. 5349) Tech

    X

   

Cheung          (Ext.5385) AAS

    

    X

Moore    (Ext. 5382) AAS

    X

 

Estrada     (Ext.5164) CommSvc

    

    X 

Myint    (Ext. 5316)  ESL

 

   X

Hudak      (Ext. 5361) CommSvc

    

    X

Patton    (Ext. 5296) Comm Stud

 

   X

Jackins     (Ext.5322 )  Math

    X

 

Toppel    (Ext. 5089) Stud Dev

 

   X

Johnson   (Ext.5277) CATA

    

    X

VanTassel  (Ext. 5344) Tech

    X

   

Mancini   (Ext. 5855) AF/HM

   

    X

Xu          (Ext. 5273) Soc Sci

    X

   

McGee     (Ext. 5042) Stud Dev

   

    X

ASB:  C.Vincenz

 

   X

McKay   (Ext. 5312) Pres/Comm

 

    X

Guests:  M.Chan, D.Cordero,

 

   X

Other:  B.Grayson (Staff Dev)

    X

 

K.Creed

 

   X

 

 II.    Approval of the Minutes

            The minutes for the May 10, 2001, meeting were accepted and approved with the following amendments indicated by strikethru and underlined italics (M/S/U – Patton/McGee):

 

            Page 2, Item VI.D.1 (Instructional Technology Committee Report), seventh sentence: “IS will also support disc zip drives and floppies.”

           

            Page 2, Item VI.D.1, 14th sentence:  “The difficulty is with special software: IS may not load it  IS will only load district approved software.”

           

            Page 2, Item VI.D.2 (Distance Learning Committee Report), 11th sentence:  “The committee strongly recommends that anyone designing a DL course work with Sally Wisner to ensure that courses meet Mission College’s web page design standard and that the course content responds to the course outline.”

           

            Page 4, Item VI.D.6 (Alternative Calendar Committee), first paragraph, last sentence:  “Many students feel that instructors often dismiss classes within the last 10-15 minutes of the class, and in his opinion, two weeks of instruction will be lost and instructors and students will necessarily have to cram in the material.

 

III.    Order of the Agenda

            It was agreed that the order of agenda will be changed to accommodate guests (M/S/U Bell-Cheung/Myint).  Items VII.C and VII.B will be addressed immediately following information and announcements, in that order.

 

 IV.    Oral Communication from the Public 

            Don Cordero referred to the Senate’s resolution regarding the burrowing owls passed Mission at last week’s meeting.  He urged that a subcommittee of the Academic Senate present the resolution to the Mission-West Valley Land Corporation as representative of the Mission College faculty’s voice on this matter, emphasizing the term “perpetuity.” He stated that this issue has become a legal matter since the Department of Fish and Game became involved, and he is concerned that the issue may be overlooked by the Land Corporation’s Board.  Senators Hudak, Johnson, and Patton volunteered to serve as the subcommittee and present the matter to the Board.  Dianne stated that it is her intent to advise the Land Corporation Board of the Senate’s resolution in writing as well.

 

 

 

V.      Information & Announcements 

1.   Dianne reminded everyone that the annual after-graduation celebration will take place at David’s Restaurant, adjacent to the Convention Center, immediately following graduation. 

2.  Dianne thanked the Senate members for the gift she received from them at last week’s meeting.  She expressed her appreciation and gratitude to all those who have served with her on the Academic Senate for the last three years.

 

As agreed, the order of the agenda was moved to Item VII.C, followed by Item VII.B, to accommodate guests.

 

VII.   Old Business

           

  C.    Final Report on Progress re: ESL/English/Reading Curriculum

            Marsha Chan and Myo Myint presented a summary report on the progress of the ESL, English, Reading, and Research Committee for the 2000/01 academic year.  Dianne reminded the Senate that last year, the Curriculum Review Committee (CRC) brought its concerns to the Academic Senate relative to these programs, and formed a committee with Priscilla Butler serving as chair.  The charge of the committee was to review curricular and placement issues in the ESL Department and related disciplines.  Dianne expressed her pride in the group and their collaborative effort.  She particularly expressed her gratitude to Priscilla for facilitating and directing the group effort.  She noted that this is an issue of concern state-wide, and commended the faculty involved for undertaking this task.

 

            The Senators reviewed the summary report with Marsha and Myo, noting the development of two new courses approved by the CRC (ESL910A and ESL 910B) to be offered this Fall.  These courses were developed in response to increasing student demand for class work at the lower levels, and they were offered this Spring as ESL 99M and 99N.  The report indicates that the ESL Department did substantial public relations work to ensure that the classes were developed appropriately, legally, and in a way that would most benefit students who previously did not have access to the program. 

 

            The focus of the committee has been on creating a direct pathway from ESL to English that would allow students who have successfully completed ESL 125 (and possibly 135) to go directly to one of the English courses without taking any additional placement tests.  A pathways document has been developed that lists four proposed solutions.  Final solutions have been delayed until certain questions can be clarified by the state Chancellor’s Office.  It is anticipated that this will be accomplished via teleconference.  Myo explained that this is an on-going process.  The goal of these proposed changes is to ensure student mastery of skills at each level before moving on to the next.    Those students who feel they have mastered a given level can always challenge the process, and instructors can encourage a student to challenge if they feel it is appropriate. Too often, students at level 2 take the English placement test, pass it, get into an English course, and then, quite often, cannot master the course.  This points to the current assessment process.

 

            Dianne noted that the English and ESL Departments are comparing exit skills from ESL with entrance skills for English.  It is clear to the committee that current course outlines are broadly written and no measurement criteria exist.  If the courses are connected, there must be a standard of achievement – an indication of mastery at some level.  Dianne stated that the English Department recognizes the need for a writing sample and they are moving in that direction.  This is a work in progress and the group will continue its efforts next year.  She thanked Marsha and Myo for their presentation.

 

B.      Consider Final Approval to Create Child Development Dept,

            Dianne reported that Linda Cochran took the proposal to the Division Chair Council (DCC) for approval.  The DCC has requested that the Academic Senate postpone approval of the proposal until the concerns of the DCC relative to cost, resources, staffing, and other concerns are addressed within the proposal.  Linda has agreed, and the Senators agreed to defer approval to the Fall by consensus.

 

            The Order of the Agenda was resumed.

 

 VI.   Administrative Business/Actions/Appointments

         A.  Curriculum Committee - * Alex Braun, Chair of the Curriculum Review Committee (CRC), reported that actions taken by the CRC since November included approval of 48 new courses, 6 Distance Learning courses, 19 major revisions, and 10 minor revisions.   The curriculum was presented to the Board of Trustees at the May 3, 2001, meeting.  Alex reported that Pat Andrews, a Social Science instructor at WVC, addressed the Board, taking issue with the Political Science 1 Distance Learning course as it is written.  Alex stated that the course satisfies the institutional requirements for History and Political Science.  Ms. Andrews asserted her view that it is impossible to do justice to the material in that format.  Alex and Dianne took the position that the discussion of curricular issues does not fall under the purview of the Board of Trustees, and it is inappropriate for the Board to take action; the matter would be more appropriately addressed at the college Academic Senate. Alex advised the Senate that the course has been approved as written since the early 1980’s.  The course has been submitted to the state Chancellor’s office for approval, and it is currently under review by the state Chancellor’s office.  Unless otherwise notified by that office, it is the intention of the college to teach the course as it has been taught for the last twenty years. Dianne advised that she has heard from several members of the administration and Board, indicating that these issues are better handled through Academic Senate processes and not at the Board. She also advised a Board member that this issue was addressed by the Curriculum Review Committee approximately 1-1/2 years ago, and was discussed with Pat Andrews and the articulation officer.  *  The Curriculum Handbook was updated last summer.  Alex noted that the incorrect Distance Learning form is still in the handbook, and it will be replaced by the form approved by the Senate last year.

B.  Staff Recognition  - The following resolutions were presented to the Academic Senate and approved as indicated:

 

(M/S/U – Toppel/Akers-Martin)

     

Whereas, Nan Biltz always demonstrates her commitment to faculty and staff in general, and specifically to those in the Disability Instructional Support Center and the Learning Assistance and Tutorial Center; and

Whereas, Nan Biltz always approaches each task from an analytical perspective, ensuring that the departments function smoothly; and

Whereas, Nan Biltz is extremely well organized and thorough, and consistently demonstrates honesty and integrity in her work ethic; and

Whereas, Nan Biltz always displays a warm and inviting smile, a quick wit and a subtle sense of humor, especially when challenging situations arise; and

Whereas, Nan Biltz always expresses care and empathy toward students, particularly those with special needs; and

Whereas,  Nan Biltz always goes the extra mile for everyone ; and

Whereas, Nan Biltz continues to contribute numerous hours towards the completion of Accreditation Standard 7;

 

Therefore, Be It Resolved,         That the Mission College Academic Senate recognizes Nan Biltz for the high quality and comprehensiveness of the documentation and data she maintains for LATC/DISC and Accreditation Standard 7; and

Therefore, Be It Further Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate acknowledges Nan Biltz’s contributions to the college community, and

Therefore, Be It Finally Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate extends its gratitude and appreciation to Nan Biltz for the support she always provides to the faculty, staff, and students of Mission College.”

 

(M/S/U – McGee/Toppel):

 

“Whereas, Peter Anning has created, developed and lead the Office of Marketing Communications at Mission College into an exemplary service; and

Whereas, Peter Anning has extended himself beyond reasonable expectation to support campus activities.

Whereas, Peter Anning is a constant source of humor, compassion, and friendliness to all at Mission College; and

Whereas,  Peter Anning is a person who can always be counted on to come through and provide last minute support for faculty and staff no matter how busy he is; and

Whereas,  Peter Anning has proven to be a gifted artist, writer, photographer, and spokesperson on Mission College's behalf;

 

Therefore, Be It Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate recognizes the unique and extraordinary contribution that Peter Anning has made in support of the educational programs, students, faculty and staff of Mission College; and

Therefore, Be It Further Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate extends its appreciation and gratitude to Peter Anning for his dedicated service; and

Therefore, Be It Finally Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate looks forward to many more years of Peter’s contributions toward marketing Mission College as a premier institution of higher learning in Silicon Valley.”

 

(M/S/U – McKay/Patton):

 

“Whereas, Grace Hazán has served the Mission College Academic Senate well and faithfully for lo these many years; and

Whereas,  Grace Hazán has served as parliamentarian, historian, and conscience of the Mission College Academic Senate; and

Whereas, Grace Hazán has made each Academic Senate President look intelligent, knowledgeable and competent; and

Whereas,  Grace Hazán has intelligently and accurately produced the Mission College Academic Senate minutes, which have served to inform the faculty and community on the critical academic and professional issues facing the college; and

Whereas,  Grace Hazán has been a confidant to, supporter of, researcher for, and great friend of the Mission College Academic Senate, its Senators and Officers;

 

Therefore, Be It Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate expresses its deep appreciation to Grace Hazán for her many years of friendship and devoted service; and

Therefore, Be It Further Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate recognizes Grace Hazán for her sensitivity, confidentiality, and humor in difficult times; and

Therefore, Be It Finally Resolved, That the Mission College Academic Senate extends its sincere respect and admiration to Grace Hazán and wishes her much happiness in all her future endeavors.”

 

C.      Committee Appointments -  No committee appointments were made at today’s meeting.

D.      Oral Reports

         1.  Instructional Technology Committee – Carol Toppel reported that the committee met with Jim Petromilli, the consultant hired by the District to assist in the development of the technology plan for each of the colleges.  Carol advised that the meeting was productive, and Jim was provided with information on the status of technology at Mission College, as well as the names of individuals  that can provide him with additional information.  The focus of the discussion was access to instructional technology by faculty.  Pat Hudak expressed a positive response to Jim’s perspective and suggestions. 

2.   Distance Learning Committee  - No report was made at today’s meeting.

            3.   Staff Development – No report was made today.

         4.  Datatel Implementation Committee -  Amelia reported that the committee will meet during the summer, and she asked for direction from the Senate.  Although Amelia has completed her term on the Academic Senate, she offered to continue to attend the meetings over the summer.  The Senators thanked Amelia for serving on the committee and representing Mission College so well.

5.   Workforce Development Committee – No report was made at today’s meeting.

6.  Alternative Calendar Committee – As directed, Dianne sent the MC Academic Senate’s resolution to the appropriate parties.  She reported that she has not received any response to the resolution except from Clo Hampton, who advised her that the Calendar Committee has completed its charge assigned by the District Council.  Apparently, Clo has been advised by the Vice Chancellor that each college can have its own calendar.  West Valley College will move forward with an alternative calendar and Mission College can proceed at its own pace. As directed, Dianne presented the resolution from the MC Academic Senate to the West Valley College Academic Senate President, who, in turn, presented it to his Senate for consideration.  The WVC Academic Senate opted not to adopt the resolution, and to recommend that WVC move forward with the implementation of an alternative calendar.  It was stated during today’s discussion that although Mission College has many concerns regarding the implementation of an alternative calendar, it is not opposed to the proposal. It was noted that the original charge from the District Council (DC) to the committee was that the committee present a recommendation to the DC  by October of this year; West Valley has made April its deadline. The intent of the MC Academic Senate’s resolution was to slow down the process, to ensure the quality of the work being accomplished by the subcommittee of the District Council, and to ensure that the necessary background information was obtained.  It is the contention of the Mission College Academic Senate that such investigative research is necessary to ensure that all implications and ramifications of an alternative calendar would be understood and resolved in advance.  Dianne advised that since WVC intends to implement such a calendar, MC has to decide how to proceed.  It is understood that MC wishes to make a well-informed decision.  However, the college will be effected by the actions of West Valley College.  She asked for direction on how to proceed. 

 

            Discussion ensued, particularly relative to the issues surrounding two separate calendars.   The District Council must recognize that the two colleges in the district are not totally independent of each other; they have a symbiotic relationship.   Any decision made at one of the colleges has an effect on the other.   It behooves the MC faculty not to concede to anything that is not in the college’s best interest, but to accept that West Valley College has made the best decision in the best interest of their students and college. There is strength in maintaining a sense of collegiality.  It is imperative, however, that the colleges be realistic and consider all related calendar issues, such as academic integrity, impact on enrollment, and the additional cost of customizing Datatel to accommodate two calendars that undoubtedly will be incurred.  Both colleges need to move forward with high academic integrity, and to be aware of the consequences that will affect them both. Assuming there are no issues relative to collective bargaining, curriculum, staffing, students’ concerns, the major issue for Mission College is space.  The college cannot move forward without resolving its room utilization problem.  Ultimately, Dianne and Jane were directed to take the matter to GAP for direction on how to proceed. It was also highly recommended that faculty receive the calendar information at flex, and that any decision be made under the auspices of the Academic Senate.  It is critical for the Academic Senate to maintain its primary role in this decision-making process, and, as a matter of principle, to maintain the academic integrity of its curriculum, as well as to consider the students’ best interest.  It is the responsibility of other groups to consider issues such as funding, staffing, logistics, etc. 

           

            7.  Services & Facilities Master Plan – Pat reported that the IS plan has been incorporated into the larger S&FMP, but is not certain if it has been changed in the final report.  Dianne stated that she has not yet seen the final S&FMP.

         8.  Graduation Committee  - The names of faculty that will serve as Marshals and Name Readers for graduation have been forwarded to the committee.  A BBQ lunch will be served on campus at 12:30 p.m. to those faculty and students participating in graduation. Rehearsal is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Friday, May 25th, The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m., and faculty and students should arrive at the Convention Center by 5:30 p.m.  The After-Graduation Celebration for faculty and staff will be held at David’s Restaurant adjacent to the Convention Center. 

            9.  Accreditation Self-Study Report  - No report was made at today’s meeting.

 

 VII.  Old Business (Continued)

 

    A.  Consider Final Approval of Program Discontinuance Policy

            Dianne advised that the proposed policy was sent to all faculty after last week’s meeting.  The majority of Senators indicated that no changes were noted. Several amendments were recommended on behalf of the AAS Division, and the Senators unanimously passed the following motion (M/S/U – Patton/Toppel):

 

            “to accept and adopt the proposed Program Discontinuance Policy as amended.”

 

IX.    President's Reports

Dianne thanked Chris Vincenz for his participation on the MC Academic Senate as the ASB representative.  She also thanked the Senate members for making the last three years very special.  Serving on the Academic Senate has truly been a growth experience. She thanked Carol Toppel for her service on the Senate as Vice President, and passed the gavel on to Jane Patton, wishing her well. 

 

X.     Correspondence, Publications, & Announcements

         Publications/Minutes

1.    2002/2002 List of publications on Higher Education from Stylus Publishing.

2.    The May 2001 issue of ACE Update.

3.    The May 11, 2001, issue of DVC FORUM from the Diablo Valley College Faculty Senate.

4.    The agenda for the May 16, 2001, meeting of DBAC.

5.    The agenda for the M-WV Land Corporation Meeting of May 17, 2001.

6.    The agenda for the May 17, 2001, Strategic Conversation of the Board of Trustees.

7.    The summary notes for the May 2 and 9, 2001, meetings of GAP

         Announcements/Conferences

1.    The 2001 Annual Convention of the CCLC will be held in Riverside, November 15-17, 2001.

2.    The Intersegmental Major Preparation Articulated Curriculum Project (IMPAC) is seeking faculty interested in participating in the IMPAC Project.  If interested, additional information is available from the IMPAC website at www.cal-impac.org.

 

XI.    Future Agenda Items

1.    Review Student Academic Renewal Policy as stated in the catalog (McGee)

 

XII.   Adjournment

         The meeting was adjourned at 3:50 p.m. (M/S/U – Toppel/Patton).  These minutes are respectfully submitted by Grace Hazán, Academic Senate Secretary.