LAKE COUNTY — On April 25, Mendocino College faculty, administrators, classified staff and others crowded into the Mendocino College”s library classroom to hear information concerning the possibility of Mendocino College taking over the leadership of the College of the Redwoods campus located in Fort Bragg, according to Christine Mullis.
The forum was held by Superintendent and President Arturo Reyes, who shared a draft of the current Memorandum of Understanding during the meeting. The memorandum is being developed between the two community colleges and spells out the terms of the agreement. A discussion took place regarding the responsibilities Mendocino College would assume if the draft agreement is approved by both colleges” governing boards.
Participants asked about a feasibility study and Mendocino College”s ability to maintain its current level of service, according to Mullis. They also asked how the college will effectively expand that level of service into the Fort Bragg campus. Specific areas of discussion included what type of instruction to offer, costs of operating the center, hiring faculty and staff, providing technology, financial aid, counseling and other support services.
“We support the coastal region of Mendocino County and are committed to ensuring that those students have the same opportunities as inland students to obtain degrees and certificates,” Reyes said. “At the same time, we have a responsibility to the staff, board and public at large to provide assurances that we can sustain our existing levels of service to another site before we make a decision.”
The next step toward offering Mendocino College”s services in Fort Bragg is waiting for the final memorandum to be taken to the College of the Redwoods district governing board for approval, according to Reyes. Assuming the agreement is approved by the College of the Redwoods board, the Mendocino College board would then consider the feasibility of offering services to the coast region by holding internal campus discussions, considering student needs, developing and reviewing financial and enrollment projections and evaluating the possible impact on Mendocino College staff, faculty and administrators.
In the event Mendocino College elects to move forward, Reyes will make a recommendation for the board”s consideration at its June meeting. If approved, Mendocino College could begin offering classes as early as the fall semester, according to Christine Mullis.
For information, contact Reyes” office at 468-3071.
