Jon Mandrell

IDSL 895
Assignment Two

Smiths Model appears to be consistent with Sauk Valley Communitys Colleges practice with
policy adoption and revision. Smith (2000) states that both the political and analytical dimensions of
policy-making are important so that such policies are responsive, thoughtful, relevant, accepted, and
implemented (p.96). Sauk Valley Community Colleges process appears to align with Smiths
perspective, particularly in the monitoring and continuous evaluation of existing policy, which ties into a
consistent revision process.
Board policy 104.01 at Sauk Valley Community College facilitates the revision and creation of
board policies. The policy itself dictates the procedure to adopt, rescind or revise all board policies. At
each monthly board meeting, the president presents 3-4 policies scheduled for review, at which time
board members can provide input. A week prior to a board meeting, the president discusses the policies
that are scheduled for upcoming review with the presidents cabinet, who also provide any input. The
Presidents Cabinet consists of the Academic Vice President and Academic Deans. This process allows
the administration to have a voice in the establishment of such policies and reach all supervisory
channels before they reach the board level. If the need for new policy were to be created, it is presented
and discussed at such administrative meetings.
At the following board meeting, any changes to a reviewed policy are presented, at which time a
vote can take place to approve the policy. Board policy 104.01 requires that a majority vote is required
for approval. Once a policy is in place, the president then directs how it is carried out in the institution,
which allows flexibility and creativity among the staff. Smith further states, Wise boards craft broad
future-oriented policies, which then foster an environment that encourages staff creativity (p.90).

Many of the policies require little to no action, but a regular review of such is necessary to keep
all board members and the president abreast of their content and their implications. As times change, so
do the possible needs to adjust policies or create them. For example, at this weeks board meeting, with
the growing popularity of electronic cigarettes, the board reviewed our smoking policy and the impact
of electronic smoking devices on our campus. Policy is now being adopted for a second reading at the
next meeting.
While talking with SVCC President, Dr. George Mihel, he stated that our board typically sets
policy that aligns with our strategic plan, which ultimately serves our students and the community. Like
other boards, the SVCC Board of Trustees also provides oversight to the budget and approves certain
decisions that impact the institution, such as new hires.
In comparison, policy adoption and revision at Sauk Valley Community College is similar to
Smiths model. Smith states, Policy is the collective voice of a board is the primary vehicle through
which boards exercise their authority. Such policy directs our president in his actions and motivations,
which also align with the colleges mission, vision, and goals.

References
Smith, C. J. (2000). Trusteeship in community colleges: a guide for effective governance. Washington,
D.C.: Association of Community College Trustees.