Evaluation shows college keeping eyes on mission

Ever since the Board of Governors rectified the administration's ill-advised, arbitrary and unilateral decision to demote McCook Community College to a "Campus" of Mid-Plains Community College, MCC has been on the upswing.

The latest evidence of this came Wednesday, as five consultant evaluators of the Higher Learning commission of the North Central Association recommended that the college area -- MCC included -- should receive its highest marks. The college, which in the past has been given the nod for three years or so, should become fully accredited for 10 years this time.

"This is a first for Mid-Plains Community College," area president Dr. Michael R. Chipps said. "All of us working together is what made this happen. We have wonderful students and great employees, and this is an exciting time for the college."

Any of us who have attended college know what a memorable experience it can be. The transition from living with our parents in high school, to moving out for college and on to our adult lives is something that stays with us forever.

Like any experience, it is as personal as can be -- one person's favorite class can be a nightmare for a classmate.

But ways have been set up to try to determine which instructors and institutions are doing the most effective job in educating tomorrow's workers, leaders and citizens. The North Central Association is one of the best tools for making such a judgment, whether in the primary, secondary or post-secondary educational arenas.

No matter how honest and professional local staff and administrators are, it's always good for outsiders to take a look at a local school.

W

hat the outsiders found was good. Among the positive points:

* teaching and learning are the No. 1 priority of the college.

* faculty and staff are well informed about the college and positive about its future.

* the college enjoys a strong relationship with its community and works to find ways to provide improved educational services.

* faculty and staff trust the administration.

* facilities are well maintained and provide an excellent atmosphere for learning to take place.

There were down points, of course, including documentation and faculty involvement in curriculum and program planning.

Ever since it moved out of the old YMCA in downtown McCook, McCook's college has had a beautiful campus. Thanks to the Hormel family, as well as the foresight of the administration and board of governors, a new technology, learning and welcome center, as well as newer and improved dormitories, that campus has only been enhanced. It's nice to know that the college is keeping its eyes on its primary goal of providing a quality education.