Dive Brief:
- The embattled City College of San Francisco is still on shaky footing with its accreditor and is now dealing with criticism over reports of potential misuse of funds by two administrators, including former chancellor Art Tyler, who has resigned.
- The San Francisco Chronicle reports that Tyler announced his resignation from his post as vice chancellor of facilities, a position he took after his time as chancellor, just days before its story about his frequent absences from campus and poorly documented travel expenses went to print.
- Tim Killikelly, president of the faculty union, told Inside Higher Ed that the accrediting commission is at fault for the lack of oversight, and while the state is exploring alternatives for accreditation, CCSF will not be able to stay open if it doesn’t get in line with the Accreditation Commission for Community and Junior Colleges’ requirements.
Dive Insight:
The problems at the City College of San Francisco have been closely watched since its accreditation crisis began in 2012. The ACCJC identified financial problems and compliance issues and, the following year, moved to pull the college’s accreditation but was thwarted by a judge’s decision. The college has lost more than 10,000 students since then and has had a hard time filling administrative positions, given the turmoil and long-term uncertainty. The faculty union declared an impasse in negotiations with administrators Thursday night, following an unsuccessful 10 months of negotiations for a new labor contract. The last contract expired six months ago.
Earlier this month, Acting Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. upheld the ACCJC’s noncompliant status based on federal standards. It will have 12 months to get in line or lose recognition from the U.S. Department of Education.