Strategic Priorities and Action Steps

ENHANCING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Action steps
Highlighted steps will be addressed in 2002 and 2003. Other steps will be prioritized at the conclusion of Year 1 and remanded to Years 2, 3, and beyond.

1. Design and implement an efficient system for assessing community needs

   practice continuous needs assessment use a variety of assessment techniques convert assessment results into timely action with programs, curricula, and services

    

2. Examine and recommend technology innovations that can be used to improve communication with student and customer markets.
   

3. Identify underserved populations in the service region and expand access through extended facilities, distance delivery, improved transportation options, and community partnerships.
   

4. Open an extension site in Orland Park to serve and compete in that sector of the district.
   

5. Plan service enhancements to the southeast (Blue Island) sector following investigation, analysis, and recommendation of local sites.
   

6. Consider expanded child care service, including child care at a Blue Island site.
   

7. Strengthen partnerships with the high schools, including faculty-to-faculty and counselor-to-counselor connections. 

   offer prospective students the opportunity to "sit in" on a college class before enrolling. develop a process to administer the COMPASS assessment test in area high schools. (moved to Priority A, Year One). work with local high schools to address remediation needs and intervene before high school students enter college. offer programs for the professional development of educators.

    

8. Package and offer more courses/programs for employers - either on campus or off site - to train, upgrade, refresh, or enhance employee skills and/or practices.
   

9. Develop and implement a process for college staff to become "partners in participation" through active involvement in community chambers and service organizations.
   

10. Review and revise guidelines for program and other advisory committees to include membership from the broader service region.
    

11. Strengthen existing relationships with social service agencies, civic organizations, and local government agencies.

    establish connecting activities between the college and individual agencies and organizations. connect agencies interested in addressing regional issues