Whittier : New College Policy Would Set Registration Priorities
Handicapped and poor students and those with at least 20 units would be able to register first for classes under a proposal given preliminary approval by the Rio Hondo College Board of Trustees.
In a unanimous vote last week, the board granted priority to the three groups, including financially and academically disadvantaged students enrolled in the Extended Opportunity Program and Services.
Under an unwritten policy, college district employees and their immediate family members had been given priority along with handicapped students. Some students charged that the practice was unfair and discriminatory and that athletes were also included.
Student Body President Ed Palmer told board members at last Wednesday’s meeting that the former registration system was “elitist and (full of) nepotism.”
College officials denied that athletes have been given special treatment. State education laws limit priority registration to the disabled, students enrolled in EOPS and continuing students, Dean of Admissions Tom Huffman said.
The policy would be implemented next semester if it receives final approval by trustees at their next meeting Nov. 11.
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