The Mission of ۿ۴ý College is to provide quality, affordable, educational opportunities to meet the diverse academic, technical and career needs of the students and communities we serve.
The Mission statement of ۿ۴ý College is consistent with the Texas Education Code 130.0011, which states that the Mission of ۿ۴ý junior colleges shall be two-year institutions primarily serving their local taxing districts and service areas in Texas and offering vocational, technical, and academic courses for certification or associate degrees, as well as continuing education, remedial and compensatory education consistent with open-admissions policies.
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ۿ۴ý
Since first admitting students in 1940, ۿ۴ý College has offered programs and activities intended to encourage lifelong learning and enhance the quality of life in the communities it serves.
As a member of the Texas state system of ۿ۴ýly supported institutions of higher education, ۿ۴ý College maintains an open-door admissions policy and provides an array of learning, skill development and life experiences to motivate and challenge students. Classes are offered at two primary locations, ۿ۴ý and Abilene, in addition to several other off-campus sites. The College strives to maintain a student/faculty ratio which facilitates close interaction between faculty and students.
ۿ۴ý College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award Associate level degrees. The Commission can be contacted at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033 or by phone at (404) 679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of ۿ۴ý College. Please Note: The Commission is to be contacted only if there is evidence that appears to support the institution’s significant non-compliance with a requirement or standard.
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Core Values
ۿ۴ý College facilitates student success by ensuring open-door access to diverse educational opportunities, embracing innovation and best practices, and providing effective student support.ۿ۴ý College insists on excellence in our programs, instruction, services, management, and learning environment.
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Ethics and Philosophy
At ۿ۴ý College, ethical standards and a commitment to excellence are the foundations for creating an environment of life-long learning. The college is committed to fulfilling its mission by providing a positive, encouraging and success-oriented environment. All members of the college community are encouraged to act with mutual respect, integrity and professionalism towards one another and when representing the college to the greater community.
College policies that support innovation, sponsor collaboration, maintain open communication, encourage students and employees to adapt to change, call for efficient and effective use of college resources, and promote and protect the rights of each individual in the college community are enforced. This includes freedom from harassment and freedom for students and employees to develop and learn.
ۿ۴ý College adheres to both state and federal regulations and policies and accepts its responsibilities to students, employees, and the taxpaying citizens of Texas. The college strives to meet these responsibilities with fairness, accountability and integrity.
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Guiding Principles
The principles that guide our expectations of learning and working together at ۿ۴ý College reflect our values as a community of learners and educators. The college’s commitment to ethical standards is demonstrated through these principles.
- Learning - We believe an emphasis on teaching and learning should be the guiding force behind everything we do at ۿ۴ý College.
- Respect - We respect and value each and every student and employee as a unique individual making an important contribution to the College.
- Integrity - We work and interact with honesty, integrity, and mutual trust—looking beyond self interests and without hidden agendas.
- Communication - We listen carefully and communicate respectfully, giving genuine consideration to multiple perspectives and diversity of thought.
- Cooperation - We work together to achieve common goals, offering support and building consensus.
- Joy - We encourage fun and laughter, taking joy in our work and our learning while celebrating our successes.
- Innovation - Always striving to improve, we encourage innovation and risk taking without the fear consequences for unsuccessful endeavors.
History
Education on the “hill” in ۿ۴ý began in 1909 when O. C. Britton, prominent early-day educator, gained the support of far-sighted ۿ۴ý citizens in opening a private school known as Britton Training Institute. The school operated successfully until military involvement in World War I so depleted the number of students that it was forced to close.
Learn more about the History of ۿ۴ý College