The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (Commission) released its official review findings for Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) on January 31, 2011. The Commission has issued a “Warning” status to Ventura College and Oxnard College to correct deficiencies at the college and District levels. A warning status indicates the Commission finds an institution pursuing a course deviating from the Commission’s Eligibility Requirements, Standards, or Commission policies to an extent that gives concern to the Commission. Accreditation status of the colleges continues during the warning period; however, accreditation status cannot be reaffirmed for the standard six-year period until the recommendations for improvement have been satisfied. Moorpark College’s accreditation status has been “Reaffirmed,” with a follow-up report and visit scheduled for October 2011 to address seven recommendations related to the District in the areas of resources, leadership, and governance.
The Commission is the accrediting agency that ensures its member institutions meet required institutional standards recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education, including mission, institutional effectiveness, student learning, student services, resources, leadership, and governance. In October 2010, the District and colleges were visited by Commission representatives who subsequently provided the Commission with recommendations for improvement. As a result of the Commission’s findings, Ventura College and Oxnard College are required to complete written progress reports by October 2011. The reports will be followed by a visit from Commission representatives. VCCCD will have up to two years to address all Commission concerns.
VCCCD Chancellor James Meznek stated, “The Commission’s findings identified multiple recommendations for improvement. We recognize our challenges and will move aggressively to correct any deficiencies. I am confident we can satisfy the Commission’s requests for improvement and become a stronger institution as a result.” Chair Steve Blum, Board of Trustees, added, “The Board is focused on addressing the Commission’s recommendations in a timely manner. We are appreciative of the accrediting team’s efforts and Commission’s input to help us improve and become even better community colleges. The Board thanks staff, too, for their hard work throughout this process.”
The Commission letters and detailed evaluation reports can be viewed on the college websites at www.venturacollege.edu, www.oxnardcollege.edu, and www.moorparkcollege.edu. |