September 11, 2006

On September 11, 2006 the Board of Governors (BOG) adopted a resolution that will likely lead to an increase in the minimum competency standards for mathematics and written expression required for the associate degree.   With this change, effective for all students admitted to a community college for the Fall 2009 term, or any term thereafter, competence in written expression shall be demonstrated by obtaining a satisfactory grade in English 1A or in a course approved locally, at the same level and with the same rigor, or by completing an assessment and achieving a score determined to be comparable to satisfactory completion of the specified English course.  Competence in mathematics shall be demonstrated by obtaining a satisfactory grade in a mathematics course at the level of the course typically known as intermediate algebra (either intermediate algebra or another mathematics course at the same level, with the same rigor and with elementary algebra as a prerequisite, approved locally, or by completing an assessment and achieving a score determined to be comparable to satisfactory completion of the specified mathematics course.

The BOG authorized the Chancellor to amend the relevant regulation, Title 5 Section 55806, after a 45-day period public comment period and a public hearing at which time members of the public may provide testimony to the Chancellor related to the proposed change.  The Chancellor will consider comments regarding the regulations and make nonsubstantive, technical changes, if necessary, and then formally approve the amended regulation.  If the Chancellor believes substantive changes are necessary as the result of comments received, possible revisions would be brought back to the BOG.  Pursuant to section 208 of the Procedures and Standing orders of the BOG, the amended regulation shall become effective 30 days after adoption by the Chancellor.