165
AGENDA ITEM BACKGROUND
TO: GOVERNING BOARD
DATE
March 5, 2012
FROM: PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Spring 2012 Flex Week Activities
REASON FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION
INFORMATION
ITEM NUMBER
ENCLOSURE(S)
Page 1 of 1
D.9
BACKGROUND:
The Staff Development Committee organized five days of workshops and activities that took place from Monday,
January 30 through Friday, February 3, 2012. On these days faculty were released from their classroom assignments in
order to participate in staff development activities. (Title 5, Section 55722) Allowable activities included:
 Staff development, in-service training and instructional improvement;
 Program and course curriculum or learning resource development and evaluation;
 Student personnel service;
 Related activities, such as student advising, guidance and orientation, departmental or division
meetings, conferences and workshops, and institutional research;
 Other duties as assigned by the district.
 The necessary supporting activities for the above (Title 5, Section 55724 and 55726)
Fifty-four workshops were offered between Monday and Thursday of that week. On Friday, February 3, faculty
attended division and department meetings. President Brian King kicked off flex week with a reception and an
informal discussion on college issues, successes in the past year and challenges ahead, particularly with looming
budget reductions. A 3-day interactive workshop called On Course was offered the week prior to flex week, as well as
a basic skills symposium.
The theme of flex week, teach locally, think globally, was reflected in events which promoted fostering students’
global awareness and teaching to 21st century learning needs. Faculty had multiple opportunities to learn about working
collaboratively with individuals representing diverse cultures, and lifestyles in a spirit of mutual respect and open
dialogue. Workshops addressed strategies to work effectively with disabled students and “at risk” students due to class
or racial inequalities, educational struggles, immigration status, and students with language barriers.
Evaluations asked participants what they liked best about the workshop they attended.
“Nice to touch base with Marcy and Program Chairs regarding how [faculty] approach assessment.” Program
Chairs and SLO Assessment
“Every idea that was discussed was exhilarating.” Teaching Human Rights in a Global Context at the Community
College
“…looking at society [and] my generation differently.” Cabrillo Reads “Invisible Man”
“…inspiration to integrate the material into my teaching, and to take action toward a transformative society and
economic change.” “A wonderful blending of science and humanity.” The Ape Capers—Interdisciplinary
Perspectives on Primates
Administrator Initiating Item:
Academic and Professional Matter
Renée M. Kilmer, Vice President Instruction
 Yes  No
If yes, Faculty Senate Agreement
Senate President Signature
Yes
 No
Final Disposition