B1007 Community Education Programming

Policy Statement

Community Education programming advances the College’s mission by providing lifelong learning opportunities that enrich the personal, civic, cultural, and social lives of community members.  These programs strengthen community engagement by creating accessible opportunities for individuals of all ages to explore interests, develop new skills, participate in shared experiences, and contribute to the vitality of the region.

Community Education courses, seminars, camps, workshops, cultural activities, and enrichment programs may be delivered through a variety of instructional formats and community partnerships.  The College affirms its responsibility to sustain and improve Community Education offerings that promote lifelong learning, community engagement, personal growth, and equitable access while maintaining standards of quality and fiscal stewardship.  In doing so, the College fulfills an important public purpose by enhancing quality of life, strengthening community relationships, and supporting the social and civic vitality of the district.

The Board recognizes that:

• Individuals receive value by participating in Community Education programs that support personal enrichment, lifelong learning, cultural awareness, civic engagement, wellness, recreation, and the exploration of new interests.
• Learners receive greater value when Community Education programming is accessible, responsive to community interests, and designed to serve individuals across all ages, backgrounds, and stages of life.
• Communities benefit when residents have opportunities to connect, learn, engage, and contribute to the social, cultural, and civic vitality of the region.

To honor these values, the Board expects Community Education programming to:

1. Promote Lifelong Learning and Personal Enrichment – Deliver high-quality educational, cultural, recreational, and enrichment opportunities that support personal growth and exploration.
2. Support Community Engagement and Civic Participation – Provide programs that strengthen community connections, encourage civic involvement, and foster active citizenship.
3. Respond to Community Interests and Needs – Design programming informed by community feedback, emerging interests, demographic trends, and regional opportunities.
4. Ensure Accessibility and Geographic Reach – Expand participation across all service counties by offering programs in locations, formats, and schedules that are accessible to diverse populations.
5. Maintain Quality and Fiscal Stewardship – Ensure programs are effectively managed, appropriately evaluated, and delivered in a fiscally responsible manner.
6. Promote Equity and Inclusion – Reduce barriers to participation and provide opportunities that serve individuals from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and communities.
7. Demonstrate Results Through Evidence – Provide measurable outcomes through SCCES Key Performance Measures and Indicators, including:

• • Community Needs & Responsiveness
  • Program Accessibility & Reach
  • Participation & Engagement
  • Community Learning Impact
  • Fiscal Sustainability

The Board will assess institutional performance relative to this policy through annual reports that provide clear and sufficient evidence of results.