Frequently asked questions regarding DVC's accreditation process
What is DVC's accreditation status now?
DVC is accredited. Our excellent instruction, programs, and services to students, will continue and our accreditation will continue through this sanction process.
Will DVC really lose its accreditation?
DVC is confident that we will meet the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges' (ACCJC) expectations by the October deadline. We've been working hard, and will continue to work hard on the Commission's recommendations to improve our institution.
Commission practices, which include periodic institutional self study, peer evaluation, and Commission action, are designed to foster education excellence and continuous improvement at each institution. The processes of peer evaluation and follow-up offer support and guidance to institutions that need to improve practice in order to meet accreditation standards or policy requirements. Most institutions are able to correct any errant practices and retain institutional accreditation. (From Commission website)
Does this mean that DVC is not as good as it used to be?
DVC is the same, high quality institution that it has always been. In fact, from the same accreditation visit, the commission gave DVC commendations for several student services programs. The recommendations from the ACCJC deal with internal planning processes, how we work together as an organization, and how we conduct our accountability reporting. The recommendations do not call into question the quality of our classroom instruction, and our transfer numbers continue to soar.
When will we know if DVC will have its accreditation reaffirmed?
The Commission has given DVC until October 15, 2009 to demonstrate it is in compliance with the standards and eligibility requirements identified in their official notification letter. That report will be followed by a visit of Commission representatives who will also write an evaluation report. The Commission will then review these reports at their January 2010 meeting, to which the college president have been invited.
What happens if the college loses its accreditation?
DVC is California public college in a multi-college district. DVC's sister colleges in the Contra Costa Community College District both recently went through an accreditation review process and the accreditation for both colleges was reaffirmed for another six year cycle. The District Office is working with ACCJC to clarify their processes for addressing this issue.
What happens to a student's records if a college loses its accreditation?
Student records will not be lost. All records will be filed with another accredited institution...all academic, financial aid, and other records
Where can I learn more about DVC's progress and the overall accreditation process?
For general accreditation information, please visit the ACCJC website.
