The Strategic Planning and Allocation of Resources Committee (SPARC) has been busy at its past two meetings, investing time in reviewing the two topics most central to its role: budget and planning. At the October 30, 2014 meeting, the SPARC hosted Executive Vice Chancellor Kathy Blackwood, who presented an overview of the new District Allocation Model. The forum was well attended by not only Committee members, but also interested faculty, staff, and students of Skyline College. The main highlights were:
- FTES and Enrollment changes will not automatically affect Colleges’ allocation.
- Growth in International Students will result in increased allocations to the Colleges.
- Step and Column increases will be covered.
- Colleges can receive additional allocation through a category called Demonstrated Need.
There was significant discussion regarding the last point. At this time the process for applying for ‘Demonstrated Need’ allocations has yet to be determined.
At the SPARC meeting held on Thursday, November 13, 2014 the focus turned to Strategic Planning at the College and the District. The SPARC dedicated time to a review of the Strategic Plan, including the goals, strategies, and priorities of Skyline College. This was the first opportunity the committee has had to review the documents since the combination of the Institutional Planning Council (IPC) and College Budget Council (CBC) formed the SPARC at the beginning of this academic year. The importance of the content of these documents was reinforced as discussion turned to the District Strategic Planning process currently underway, and the incorporation of Skyline’s strategic priorities into that process.
Accordingly, the next SPARC meeting will be held jointly with the District Strategic Planning Forum on Internal Data and Trends on Thursday, December 11, 2014, 2:30 p.m. All interested parties are welcomed. Details on location and agenda will follow soon.
Prior to the next forum individuals are encouraged to review documents published on the District Strategic Planning page (http://smccd.edu/strategicplanning). Feedback and comments are welcomed and may be submitted online at http://smccd.edu/strategicplanning/feedback.php or via email to Executive Vice Chancellor Blackwood (blackwoodk@smccd.edu).
Article by Aaron McVean
