Trustees Should End ‘Dictatorship’

* I was hired by Irvine Valley College to start a digital (computer) art program in the fine-arts department last fall.

I remember my excitement during the first faculty meeting. I had joined a dynamic group of educators, and although I recognized that my job ahead would be challenging, I looked forward with optimism and anticipation.

At first I did not associate the problems I encountered with the administrative reorganization being implemented by the board of trustees. During my first semester, I watched the results of the new top-down style of management. The level of distraction, anger and frustration among my colleagues was extremely high. They would remind themselves that IVC “used to be” such a great place to teach.

Having taught at a number of colleges in Southern California, I have seen models of effective shared governance. Clearly, this management style implemented by the Board of Trustees appeared more like a dictatorship. I quietly began to look for another job. During my second and last semester at Irvine Valley College, I watched as the misguided efforts by the Board of Trustees to “save the taxpayers’ money” led to more losses of top administrators and others. Even the students were protesting.

I appreciate the opportunity I was given to teach at Irvine Valley College. I learned a great deal. I began a program, organized a new computer lab and worked with some of the finest students in my 10 years as an educator.

It is my opinion that if the board was truly concerned about the future of the colleges in South Orange County, they would all resign and allow the healing process to begin.

PEGGY JONES

San Clemente