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As we prepare for a major shift back to in-person teaching, learning, and work, many have expressed a concern about college-to-college differences in approach. Others are concerned that we will try to preserve uniformity over the flexibility needed for unique settings. Rather than responding to every specific concern, the District will provide overall direction and let the colleges make decisions about each's unique situation.
In a District as large and complex as Coast, it's almost impossible to have only one way of doing any complex process – let alone a process that reaches into every single unit and affects each of us individually. Many little activities will occur in different phases, at slightly different speeds, and with different outcomes.
That variation is good and healthy when dealing with colleagues who share our common humanity and daily hurdles. Still, we want to preserve some consistency in approach. Bargaining agreements are negotiated in a centralized way, leave and payroll are calculated in a centralized way, and districtwide participatory governance allows the airing and inclusion of many viewpoints.
When we allow for some variation while moving in a common direction, I see that the sum of our collective work is good and strong. The role of the District then becomes to try to keep these many steps moving toward the same goal and direction. Sometimes that means ensuring none of us gets too far ahead or too far behind.
There is a tendency in social animals, a category to which we humans belong, to find strength and security in numbers. Lone wolves and lone deer often suffer the same ultimately grim fate. In a literal and physical sense, security in numbers has been challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, we have evolved to see our community as extending far beyond physical reach.
We are stronger – Coastline College, Golden West College, Orange Coast College, and the District Office – when we move together.
Be well,
John
John Weispfenning, Ph.D.
Chancellor
COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions Update
When and how can I get vaccinated?
If you have not yet been vaccinated please log in to Orange County's vaccine management system Othena to create a profile. At this point all orange county residents 12 years old and over and those working in the county are eligible to receive a vaccine. There are also several vaccine distribution channels available through local pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and independent health care providers.
Starting on June 8, Orange Coast College will be offering vaccines through the county on their campus. The clinic will be open Tuesdays from 9am to 2:30. Please register through Othena. Additionally, Golden West and Coastline Colleges are in process of opening similar clinics on their campuses in the coming weeks.
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