Board charters work group to study system efficiencies, access and district structure under legislative proviso

The State Board chartered a 15-member work group to conduct a legislatively requested review of system efficiencies, access and district structure and provide a report to the legislature. The work arises from a proviso in the recently passed budget and carries a December 1 deadline for preliminary submission to legislative staff.

Board staff described the proposed composition (five board members, three college presidents, three local trustees, two labor representatives, a student and staff liaisons) and noted that the group may recommend hiring an outside consultant to support data analysis given time and staff constraints. Members emphasized that the work must protect student access and should not rush to recommend college closures; some members urged framing the first submission as a preliminary report and identifying where deeper study is required.

Board members agreed the timeline is ambitious but achievable if scoped tightly. The board approved chartering the work group (motion moved by Max, seconded by Minara) and directed staff to return with a proposed membership roster, work timeline and any consultant procurement needs.

Next steps include finalizing membership, scoping tasks, and returning to the board with a plan for meeting the December 1 reporting deadline.