STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION Action Item March 19, 2013

Transcription

1 STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION Action Item March 19, 2013 SUBJECT: Request for Approval of Baccalaureate Proposal by Northwest Florida State College for a BS in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Age Four PROPOSED BOARD ACTION For Approval AUTHORITY FOR STATE BOARD ACTION Section , Florida Statutes EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Section , Florida Statutes, provides authority for site-determined baccalaureate degree access in the Florida College System. A Letter of Intent was submitted by the college, followed by a proposal submitted to the Department of Education. Appropriate notification of intent was provided to the Board of Governors, Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida, and the Commission for Independent Education, as required in Section , Florida Statutes. No alternative proposals were received for the program being proposed by Northwest Florida State College. Nova Southeastern University submitted a letter of objection for this program, citing program duplication, which is included in the proposal along with the college s response. An extensive review of criteria was conducted for the proposal submitted, and written comments and recommendations were provided to the college. The final submission was subsequently received and is being submitted to the State Board of Education for approval. Supporting Documentation Included: Baccalaureate Program Proposal Summary (pg. 43); Recommendation from Department (pg. 45) and Northwest Florida State College, BS in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Age Four Executive Summary (pg. 49); Nova Southeastern University letter (pg. 55) and response (pg. 57); Section , Florida Statutes (pg. 59); and proposal (pg. 63) Facilitators/Presenters: Randy Hanna, Chancellor, The Florida College System and representatives from Northwest Florida State College

2 Baccalaureate Program Proposals - Summary for March 19, 2013 State Board of Education Meeting College/Program/ Letter of Intent Date Final Proposal Submitted Alternate Proposals Academic & Physical Resources Curriculum & Faculty Unmet Employment Need Business Support Budget & Fiscal Resources Postsecondary Coordination Program Start Comments Recommendation Northwest Florida State College BS - Early Childhood Education - 4/12/2012 2/18/2013 No Strong Strong Strong Regional Strong Regional Adequate Foundation - Tuition and Fees, Community College Program Fund Good Coordination and Support Fall 2013 The college proposes this program to address the local need for increased educational opportunities in the Early Childhood community. Approve

3 Baccalaureate Degree Program Proposal Recommendations from the Division of Florida Colleges Baccalaureate Review Team for Consideration by the Commissioner of Education A collaborative review was conducted by the Baccalaureate Review Team members, including staff from the Division of Florida Colleges and the Florida Colleges Budget Office. Written recommendations were submitted to the college by the Review Team, college staff revised the proposal, and submitted the final proposal, which is now complete and ready for consideration by the Commissioner of Education. Direct questions or concerns to Abbey Cunningham at (850) or abbey.cunningham@fldoe.org. College Northwest Florida State College Degree Type BS Degree Program Early Childhood Education, Birth through Age Four No alternative proposals were received for this program. Date Submitted to SBOE 3/19/13 Within 45 days following receipt of a completed proposal by the Division of Florida Colleges, the Commissioner of Education shall recommend approval or disapproval of the proposal to the State Board of Education. Section (5)(e), F.S. Comments Summary A Planning Process Northwest Florida State College s (NWFSC) Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Age Four will address a community need and prepare graduates for teacher, coordinator, and management positions in Head Start programs, Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten, military child care facilities, and private and public child care facilities. Planning activities for this degree included hosting NWFSC Listens meetings for the Early Childhood community, conducting two Early Childhood community surveys, and discussing the degree with community stakeholders. Supporting planning documentation is included in the Supplemental Materials, including meeting minutes and notes, surveys, and letters of support. NWFSC engaged in discussions with the University of West Florida (UWF), Pensacola State College (PSC), and Gulf Coast State College (GCSC) about this program. Correspondence with these institutions is located in Appendix K, including a letter of support from the University of West Florida. NWFSC and GCSC have also met to discuss potential collaboration in delivering Early Childhood Education baccalaureate programs (Appendix N). Nova Southeastern University (Nova) submitted a letter of objection for this program, citing potential program duplication. This letter, along with NWFSC s response to Nova, is included in Appendix L. NWFSC notes the differences in emphasis and cost of Nova s program as compared to NWFSC s proposed program. B C Program Implementation Timeline Workforce Demand/Unmet Need Specific to Program Area The projected implementation date of upper division enrollment is August The complete timeline of implementation activities is located in Section B of the proposal. NWFSC reports there were 886 total related jobs in Workforce Region 2 in 2011, which encompasses the college s service district of Okaloosa and Walton counties. Because there are no other Early Childhood Education baccalaureate programs in the western Panhandle, the college also anticipates interest from students in Workforce Regions 1 (2,103 positions reported) and 3 (438 positions reported). NWFSC reports 34 current job openings in the region, with 36 annual job openings anticipated in Workforce Region 2. Workforce Region 1 is anticipated to have 56 annual job openings, and Workforce 1

4 D Facilities and Equipment Specific to Program Area Region 3 is anticipated to have 13 annual openings. A total of 1,029 positions are anticipated in Workforce Region 2 in 2019, and 2,216 are anticipated in Workforce Region 1 and 472 are anticipated in Workforce Region 3. There are no recent graduates in the region, as UWF no longer offers this degree and no regional private postsecondary institutions offer a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education. The college emphasizes this degree will also serve Early Childhood employees in existing positions, and the increased level of education will position them for potential job advancement and salary increases. In addition, the Improving Head Start for School Readiness Act of 2007 requires that by September 20, 2013, 50 percent of Head Start teachers and coordinators must have a bachelor s degree. However, Okaloosa County will require 100 percent of its Head Start teachers to hold this credential. NWFSC also notes the recent influx of a significant number of troops and their dependents into Okaloosa County has increased the need for quality childcare. The program will use the Teacher Education building and the Mary Lou O Connor Child Development and Education Center, which will serve as a lab classroom. Office computers and equipment will be purchased for new faculty. E F Library/Media Specific to Program Area Academic Resources Specific to Program Area G Cost to Students NWFSC has allocated $1,000 in non-recurring startup funds and an annual budget of $1,500 for library resources. A list of library materials identified for purchase for this program is located in Appendix P. A list of NWFSC s existing faculty for this program is located on page 19. NWFSC plans to hire one full-time doctoral-level faculty member, and additional faculty will be added as needed. The college does not anticipate adding support positions. The cost for four years of study at NWFSC and other regional postsecondary institutions: NWFSC = $12,790 UWF, Pensacola Campus = $24,954 UWF, Fort Walton Beach Campus = $23,994 UWF, Online Campus = $25,794 Nova = $77,400 NWFSC notes there is no state university or private postsecondary institution located in the college s service district of Okaloosa and Walton counties. UWF is the regional state university, and Nova is located in Ft. Lauderdale and offers an online degree in Education with a concentration in Child Development. H Academic Content This program is designed to align with the Associate in Science (AS) degree in Early Childhood Education or the Associate in Arts (AA) degree. The 120-credit program is composed of 21 credits of prerequisite courses, 36 General Education credits, 3 elective credits, 18 lower division technical credits, and 42 credits of upper division specialized courses. NWFSC has elected not to pursue certification for this program, as employment in child development centers does not require state teacher education certification. I J Enrollment, Performance and Budget Plan Plan of Action if Program Must be Terminated The college anticipates 50 enrolled students during the first year and 100 students in years two and three. NWFSC anticipates the program will be self-supporting in The full budget is located on page 33. In the event of program termination, the college will follow a program inactivation plan that is consistent with the recommendations of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges regarding program termination. NWFSC notes the college is mindful that the need for this degree may be saturated within a few years, in which case the college will discontinue the program. 2

5 Recommendation: Approve Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, Division of Florida Colleges Date 2/25/13 Recommendation: Approve Chancellor, Division of Florida Colleges Date 2/28/13 3

6 THE FLORIDA COLLEGE SYSTEM BACCALAUREATE PROPOSAL APPROVAL APPLICATION COVER SHEET INSTITUTION: Northwest Florida State College PRIMARY Name: Dr. Sasha Jarrell Title: Vice President for Academic Affairs Phone: SECONDARY Name: Dr. Anne Southard Title: Dean, General Education and Grants Phone: DEGREE TYPE: Bachelor of Science DEGREE TITLE: Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four TOTAL NUMBER OF CREDIT HOURS: 120 PROPOSED DEGREE SIX-DIGIT CIP CODE (And track, if appropriate): , Track 2 PLANNED PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION DATE: Fall 2013 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION/EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES: (Limit 200 words) Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) proposes a Bachelor s of Science in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four. Employers initially requested the degree, and potential students have responded positively to college research on community demand. Career opportunities for graduates will include teacher, coordinator, and management positions in Head Start programs, Voluntary Pre- Kindergarten, military child care facilities, and private and public child care facilities. This degree has considerable economic potential because employees in the field face increasingly stringent educational standards, particularly in NWFSC s service area. In Okaloosa County, all Head Start teachers and directors must have a bachelor s degree by September Additionally, Head Start and Children s Network employees earning bachelor s degrees receive a pay increase. Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 1

7 The curriculum will focus on the practical, applied knowledge and skills essential in the field. The degree will align seamlessly with the A.S. in Early Childhood Education and the general A.A. degree. The 120-credit program will consist of: 21 lower division prerequisite credits 36 general education credits 1 3 elective credits 18 lower division technical credits 42 upper division specialized credits BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPROVAL DATE: February 21, 2012 PRESIDENT S SIGNATURE AND DATE: (Affirms compliance and accuracy) 1 The college will amend the program of study to remain in compliance with legislation requiring 30 general education hours as details are provided by the state. Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 2

8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Institution: Degree Type: Degree Title: Northwest Florida State College Bachelor of Science Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four A. Planning Process Once the community requested a baccalaureate program in Early Childhood Education via a September 1, 2011, letter (see Appendix A), Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) began the planning process with a January 4, 2012, meeting of the Baccalaureate Planning Committee (see Appendix B). During this meeting, Dr. Sasha Jarrell, Vice President for Academic Affairs, created a task force, the Early Childhood Baccalaureate Taskforce (ECBT), to analyze the feasibility of an Early Childhood baccalaureate. Further planning encompassed the ECBT s analysis of state and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) approval processes, workforce demand, external support, curriculum, budget, and available resources. In addition, the college held NWFSC Listens sessions with the Early Childhood community (see Appendix C) to gather information, and surveys garnered further feedback (see Appendix H). On February 21, 2012, the Board of Trustees approved the college s efforts to offer the baccalaureate program (see Appendix F). External planning included conversations with other post-secondary institutions, including an August 2012 meeting with Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), which is considering a similar program. NWFSC and GCSC explored collaboration in scheduling to reduce costs (see Appendix K). NWFSC received a letter of support from the University of West Florida (UWF) (see Appendix K) and responded to Nova Southeastern University (see Appendix L). NWFSC also communicated its intent to the Region 2 Workforce Board. The program s Advisory Board, composed of private and public industry representatives, met on September 13, 2012, to discuss program curriculum, goals, philosophy, and scheduling and endorsed the proposed curriculum (see Appendix M). B. Program Implementation Timeline NWFSC provided notification of its intent to offer a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four, to the Division of Florida Colleges on April 9, 2012, and to SACSCOC on September 21, 2012 (see Appendix G). The program implementation timeline is based on the college s receiving approval from the State Board of Education by March Upon approval by the State Board of Education and SACSCOC, the college will hire a full-time faculty member with a terminal degree in field and will offer courses beginning in fall of C. Workforce Demand/Unmet Need Specific to Program Area On a single day in July 2012, there were 15 job openings with a direct relationship to the proposed degree in NWFSC s service area (Region 2 Workforce) that were posted on the website. If positions in surrounding areas are added to these, the number increases to 34 positions available that day. (See Table 4.0, p. 13.) Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 4

9 Workforce Region 2 projected employment/positions for 2019 include 392 positions for Preschool Teachers and 637 for Teacher Assistants. (See Table 5.0, p. 13.) If positions in Regions 1 and 3 are included in these projections, the total employment/positions related to this degree in 2019 rises to at least 3,717. (See Tables 5.0 and 6.0, pp ) As well as serving students new to early childhood employment, the proposed program will offer career advancement to those already employed in the field who lack a bachelor s degree in Early Childhood education. Thus, this program will have a positive impact on even more citizens than the numbers above indicate. In its deliberations, NWFSC considered both the influx of military personnel to the area and agency and federal regulations. First, the 7 th Special Forces have moved to Okaloosa County with 8,000 new dependents. Second, the accrediting agency for child development facilities, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), stipulates that all center directors must have a bachelor s degree. In addition, by September 30, 2013, 50% of Head Start teachers and coordinators nationwide must have 1) a bachelor s in field or 2) a bachelor s in a related field with experience 2. Okaloosa County, which is within NWFSC s service area, will require 100% of its Head Start teachers to hold this credential. While this program will not graduate students in time to accommodate this local deadline, as future vacancies occur in child development centers, the employment pool will include new baccalaureate-degreed applicants. Furthermore, employees will be able to improve their qualifications through this program. Despite the increasing demand, there are no institutions located in the western Florida Panhandle providing an opportunity for students to earn a bachelor s degree in Early Childhood Education. D. Facilities and Equipment Specific to Program Area The proposed program will use two adjacent buildings providing wireless Internet access, a student resource room with instructional materials, smart classrooms, and offices. NWFSC s NAEYC accredited Child Development and Education Center (CDEC) will serve as a lab classroom. No new facilities or renovations will be necessary. E. Library/Media Specific to Program Area NWFSC provides a rich collection of print and electronic resources and access to state university and other college holdings. NWFSC s CDEC resources include over 1,100 additional items. Materials for purchase have been identified (see Appendix P). F. Academic Resources Specific to Program Area Two full time faculty members will be employed in this program, one of whom is already on staff. Upon SACSCOC and State Board approval of the proposed program, the college will hire the second full-time faculty member, who will hold a terminal degree in Early Childhood Education. Part-time faculty are already on staff in the related associate degree and certificate programs. Existing library and advising staff are sufficient to support the new program. 2 PUBLIC LAW DEC. 12, 2007, (Head Start Act of 2007), Section 648A Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 5

10 G. Cost to Students The estimated cost to a student for this four-year degree at NWFSC is $12,790. No other institutions located in the service area or the region offer a baccalaureate in Early Childhood Education. Nova Southeastern University s online degree program costs a student approximately $77,400 for the same degree. The University of West Florida (UWF) offers only a minor in Early Childhood, not a bachelor s degree in that field. A student enrolled in UWF s education programs can expect to pay between $24,000 and $27,000, depending on the location and delivery method. H. Academic Content The proposed baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four (CIP Code , Track 2) will not be a limited access program. Students may enter the program with either an A.A. or A.S. degree after completing the state-mandated prerequisites. The college anticipates a studentto-teacher ratio of 25:1. The 120-credit program will consist of: 21 lower division prerequisite credits 36 general education credits 3 3 elective credits 18 lower division technical credits 42 upper division specialized credits NWFSC exceeds the SACSCOC requirement that 25% of coursework needed for the degree is taught by faculty with a terminal degree in field. SACSCOC has been notified of the college s intention to offer this degree, pending State Board approval. I. Enrollment, Performance, and Budget Plan NWFSC expects that planning costs in will consist of $19,186. In , revenues from tuition and fees are predicted to be $94,872, and total program expenditures of $84,011 are anticipated. In subsequent years, when enrollments of 100 are projected, the college anticipates expenditures of $228,878 and $234,083. Revenue is expected to exceed costs. (See Table 17.0, p. 33.) J. Plan of Action If Program Must Be Terminated Should the program be terminated, college procedures stipulate that no new students will be admitted, graduation opportunities will be maximized, and students will be assisted in transferring to other colleges and/or programs of study. Faculty and staff will be transferred to other duties or assisted in finding other employment. 3 The college will amend the program of study to remain in compliance with legislation requiring 30 general education hours as details are provided by the state. Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 6

11 Appendix L Nova Letter and NWFSC Response to President Hanbury Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 102

12 Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 103

13 Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 104

14 Site-determined baccalaureate degree access. (1)(a) The Legislature recognizes that public and private postsecondary educational institutions play an essential role in improving the quality of life and economic well-being of the state and its residents. The Legislature also recognizes that economic development needs and the educational needs of place-bound, nontraditional students have increased the demand for local access to baccalaureate degree programs. It is therefore the intent of the Legislature to further expand access to baccalaureate degree programs through the use of Florida College System institutions. (b) For purposes of this section, the term district refers to the county or counties served by a Florida College System institution pursuant to s (3). (2) Any Florida College System institution that offers one or more baccalaureate degree programs must: (a) Maintain as its primary mission: 1. Responsibility for responding to community needs for postsecondary academic education and career degree education as prescribed in s (5). 2. The provision of associate degrees that provide access to a university. (b) Maintain an open-door admission policy for associate-level degree programs and workforce education programs. (c) Continue to provide outreach to underserved populations. (d) Continue to provide remedial education. (e) Comply with all provisions of the statewide articulation agreement which relate to 2- year and 4-year public degree-granting institutions as adopted by the State Board of Education pursuant to s (f) Not award graduate credit. (g) Not participate in intercollegiate athletics beyond the 2-year level. (3) A Florida College System institution may not terminate its associate in arts or associate in science degree programs as a result of being authorized to offer one or more baccalaureate degree programs. The Legislature intends that the primary responsibility of a Florida College System institution, including a Florida College System institution that offers baccalaureate degree programs, continues to be the provision of associate degrees that provide access to a university. (4) A Florida College System institution may: (a) Offer specified baccalaureate degree programs through formal agreements between the Florida College System institution and other regionally accredited postsecondary educational institutions pursuant to s (b) Offer baccalaureate degree programs that were authorized by law prior to July 1, (c) Beginning July 1, 2009, establish a first or subsequent baccalaureate degree program for purposes of meeting district, regional, or statewide workforce needs if approved by the State Board of Education under this section. Beginning July 1, 2009, the Board of Trustees of the St. Petersburg College is authorized to establish one or more bachelor of applied science degree programs based on an analysis of workforce needs in Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando Counties and other counties approved by the Department of Education. For each program selected, St. Petersburg College must offer a related associate in science or associate in applied science degree program, and the baccalaureate degree level program must be designed to articulate fully with at least one associate in science degree program. The college is encouraged to develop articulation agreements for enrollment of graduates of related associate in applied science degree programs. The Board of Trustees of the St. Petersburg College is authorized to establish additional baccalaureate degree programs if it determines a program is warranted and feasible based on each of the factors in paragraph (5)(d). Prior to developing or proposing a new baccalaureate degree program, St. Petersburg College shall engage in need, demand, and impact discussions with the state university in its service district and other local and regional, accredited postsecondary providers in its region. Documentation, data, and other information from inter- 1

15 institutional discussions regarding program need, demand, and impact shall be provided to the college s board of trustees to inform the program approval process. Employment at St. Petersburg College is governed by the same laws that govern Florida College System institutions, except that upper-division faculty are eligible for continuing contracts upon the completion of the fifth year of teaching. Employee records for all personnel shall be maintained as required by s (5) The approval process for baccalaureate degree programs shall require: (a) Each Florida College System institution to submit a notice of its intent to propose a baccalaureate degree program to the Division of Florida Colleges at least 100 days before the submission of its proposal under paragraph (d). The notice must include a brief description of the program, the workforce demand and unmet need for graduates of the program to include evidence from entities independent of the institution, the geographic region to be served, and an estimated timeframe for implementation. Notices of intent may be submitted by a Florida College System institution at any time throughout the year. The notice must also include evidence that the Florida College System institution engaged in need, demand, and impact discussions with the state university and other regionally accredited postsecondary education providers in its service district. (b) The Division of Florida Colleges to forward the notice of intent within 10 business days after receiving such notice to the Chancellor of the State University System, the President of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Florida, and the Executive Director of the Commission for Independent Education. State universities shall have 60 days following receipt of the notice by the Chancellor of the State University System to submit objections to the proposed new program or submit an alternative proposal to offer the baccalaureate degree program. If a proposal from a state university is not received within the 60-day period, the State Board of Education shall provide regionally accredited private colleges and universities 30 days to submit objections to the proposed new program or submit an alternative proposal. Objections or alternative proposals shall be submitted to the Division of Florida Colleges and must be considered by the State Board of Education in making its decision to approve or deny a Florida College System institution s proposal. (c) An alternative proposal submitted by a state university or private college or university to adequately address: 1. The extent to which the workforce demand and unmet need described in the notice of intent will be met. 2. The extent to which students will be able to complete the degree in the geographic region proposed to be served by the Florida College System institution. 3. The level of financial commitment of the college or university to the development, implementation, and maintenance of the specified degree program, including timelines. 4. The extent to which faculty at both the Florida College System institution and the college or university will collaborate in the development and offering of the curriculum. 5. The ability of the Florida College System institution and the college or university to develop and approve the curriculum for the specified degree program within 6 months after an agreement between the Florida College System institution and the college or university is signed. 6. The extent to which the student may incur additional costs above what the student would expect to incur if the program were offered by the Florida College System institution. (d) Each proposal submitted by a Florida College System institution to, at a minimum, include: 1. A description of the planning process and timeline for implementation. 2. An analysis of workforce demand and unmet need for graduates of the program on a district, regional, or statewide basis, as appropriate, including evidence from entities independent of the institution. 3. Identification of the facilities, equipment, and library and academic resources that will be used to deliver the program. 2

16 4. The program cost analysis of creating a new baccalaureate degree when compared to alternative proposals and other program delivery options. 5. The program s admission requirements, academic content, curriculum, faculty credentials, student-to-teacher ratios, and accreditation plan. 6. The program s enrollment projections and funding requirements. 7. A plan of action if the program is terminated. (e) The Division of Florida Colleges to review the proposal, notify the Florida College System institution of any deficiencies in writing within 30 days following receipt of the proposal, and provide the Florida College System institution with an opportunity to correct the deficiencies. Within 45 days following receipt of a completed proposal by the Division of Florida Colleges, the Commissioner of Education shall recommend approval or disapproval of the proposal to the State Board of Education. The State Board of Education shall consider such recommendation, the proposal, and any objections or alternative proposals at its next meeting. If the State Board of Education disapproves the Florida College System institution s proposal, it shall provide the Florida College System institution with written reasons for that determination. (f) The Florida College System institution to obtain from the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation as a baccalaureate-degreegranting institution if approved by the State Board of Education to offer its first baccalaureate degree program. (g) The Florida College System institution to notify the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools of subsequent degree programs that are approved by the State Board of Education and to comply with the association s required substantive change protocols for accreditation purposes. (h) The Florida College System institution to annually, and upon request of the State Board of Education, the Commissioner of Education, the Chancellor of the Florida College System, or the Legislature, report its status using the following performance and compliance indicators: 1. Obtaining and maintaining appropriate Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation; 2. Maintaining qualified faculty and institutional resources; 3. Maintaining enrollment in previously approved programs; 4. Managing fiscal resources appropriately; 5. Complying with the primary mission and responsibility requirements in subsections (2) and (3); and 6. Other indicators of success, including program completions, placements, and surveys of graduates and employers. The State Board of Education, upon review of the performance and compliance indicators, may require a Florida College System institution s board of trustees to modify or terminate a baccalaureate degree program authorized under this section. (6) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules to prescribe format and content requirements and submission procedures for notices of intent, proposals, alternative proposals, and compliance reviews under subsection (5). History. s. 363, ch ; s. 122, ch ; s. 7, ch ; s. 7, ch ; s. 103, ch ; s. 19, ch ; s. 11, ch

17 THE FLORIDA COLLEGE SYSTEM BACCALAUREATE PROPOSAL APPROVAL APPLICATION COVER SHEET INSTITUTION: Northwest Florida State College PRIMARY Name: Dr. Sasha Jarrell Title: Vice President for Academic Affairs Phone: SECONDARY Name: Dr. Anne Southard Title: Dean, General Education and Grants Phone: DEGREE TYPE: Bachelor of Science DEGREE TITLE: Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four TOTAL NUMBER OF CREDIT HOURS: 120 PROPOSED DEGREE SIX-DIGIT CIP CODE (And track, if appropriate): , Track 2 PLANNED PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION DATE: Fall 2013 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION/EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES: (Limit 200 words) Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) proposes a Bachelor s of Science in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four. Employers initially requested the degree, and potential students have responded positively to college research on community demand. Career opportunities for graduates will include teacher, coordinator, and management positions in Head Start programs, Voluntary Pre- Kindergarten, military child care facilities, and private and public child care facilities. This degree has considerable economic potential because employees in the field face increasingly stringent educational standards, particularly in NWFSC s service area. In Okaloosa County, all Head Start teachers and directors must have a bachelor s degree by September Additionally, Head Start and Children s Network employees earning bachelor s degrees receive a pay increase. Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 1

18 The curriculum will focus on the practical, applied knowledge and skills essential in the field. The degree will align seamlessly with the A.S. in Early Childhood Education and the general A.A. degree. The 120-credit program will consist of: 21 lower division prerequisite credits 36 general education credits 1 3 elective credits 18 lower division technical credits 42 upper division specialized credits BOARD OF TRUSTEES APPROVAL DATE: February 21, 2012 PRESIDENT S SIGNATURE AND DATE: (Affirms compliance and accuracy) 1 The college will amend the program of study to remain in compliance with legislation requiring 30 general education hours as details are provided by the state. Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 2

19 TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY... 4 EVALUATION CRITERIA... 7 A. Planning Process... 7 B. Program Implementation Timeline C. Workforce Demand/Unmet Need Specific to Program Area D. Facilities and Equipment Specific to Program Area E. Library/Media Specific to Program Area F. Academic Resources Specific to Program Area G. Cost to Students H. Academic Content I. Enrollment, Performance, and Budget Plan J. Plan of Action if Program must be Terminated K. Supplemental Materials APPENDICES A. Letter from Okaloosa-Walton Child Care Services B. Notes from January 2, 2012 Meeting of Baccalaureate Planning Committee C. Minutes from February 6, 2012 and July 24, 2012 NWFSC Listens Meetings D. Letters of Support E. Curriculum Committee Minutes February 14, F. Board of Trustees Minutes February 21, G. Letters of Intent to Dr. Randall Hanna, Dr. Claudette Williams and Dr. Belle Wheelan H. Early Childhood Community Surveys I. Meeting Notes UWF/NWFSC Staff, December 1, J. NWF2UWF Program Agreement K. Correspondence with Other Institutions L. Nova Letter and NWFSC Response to President Hanbury M. Minutes from Early Childhood Advisory Board September 13, N. Potential Full-time Schedule for a NWFSC Student Entering with an A.A. Degree Using Both NWFSC and GCSC Courses O. NWFSC Library Collection Development Policy P. List of Books Identified for Purchase in New Program Page Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 3

20 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Institution: Degree Type: Degree Title: Northwest Florida State College Bachelor of Science Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four A. Planning Process Once the community requested a baccalaureate program in Early Childhood Education via a September 1, 2011, letter (see Appendix A), Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) began the planning process with a January 4, 2012, meeting of the Baccalaureate Planning Committee (see Appendix B). During this meeting, Dr. Sasha Jarrell, Vice President for Academic Affairs, created a task force, the Early Childhood Baccalaureate Taskforce (ECBT), to analyze the feasibility of an Early Childhood baccalaureate. Further planning encompassed the ECBT s analysis of state and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) approval processes, workforce demand, external support, curriculum, budget, and available resources. In addition, the college held NWFSC Listens sessions with the Early Childhood community (see Appendix C) to gather information, and surveys garnered further feedback (see Appendix H). On February 21, 2012, the Board of Trustees approved the college s efforts to offer the baccalaureate program (see Appendix F). External planning included conversations with other post-secondary institutions, including an August 2012 meeting with Gulf Coast State College (GCSC), which is considering a similar program. NWFSC and GCSC explored collaboration in scheduling to reduce costs (see Appendix K). NWFSC received a letter of support from the University of West Florida (UWF) (see Appendix K) and responded to Nova Southeastern University (see Appendix L). NWFSC also communicated its intent to the Region 2 Workforce Board. The program s Advisory Board, composed of private and public industry representatives, met on September 13, 2012, to discuss program curriculum, goals, philosophy, and scheduling and endorsed the proposed curriculum (see Appendix M). B. Program Implementation Timeline NWFSC provided notification of its intent to offer a baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four, to the Division of Florida Colleges on April 9, 2012, and to SACSCOC on September 21, 2012 (see Appendix G). The program implementation timeline is based on the college s receiving approval from the State Board of Education by March Upon approval by the State Board of Education and SACSCOC, the college will hire a full-time faculty member with a terminal degree in field and will offer courses beginning in fall of C. Workforce Demand/Unmet Need Specific to Program Area On a single day in July 2012, there were 15 job openings with a direct relationship to the proposed degree in NWFSC s service area (Region 2 Workforce) that were posted on the website. If positions in surrounding areas are added to these, the number increases to 34 positions available that day. (See Table 4.0, p. 13.) Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 4

21 Workforce Region 2 projected employment/positions for 2019 include 392 positions for Preschool Teachers and 637 for Teacher Assistants. (See Table 5.0, p. 13.) If positions in Regions 1 and 3 are included in these projections, the total employment/positions related to this degree in 2019 rises to at least 3,717. (See Tables 5.0 and 6.0, pp ) As well as serving students new to early childhood employment, the proposed program will offer career advancement to those already employed in the field who lack a bachelor s degree in Early Childhood education. Thus, this program will have a positive impact on even more citizens than the numbers above indicate. In its deliberations, NWFSC considered both the influx of military personnel to the area and agency and federal regulations. First, the 7 th Special Forces have moved to Okaloosa County with 8,000 new dependents. Second, the accrediting agency for child development facilities, the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), stipulates that all center directors must have a bachelor s degree. In addition, by September 30, 2013, 50% of Head Start teachers and coordinators nationwide must have 1) a bachelor s in field or 2) a bachelor s in a related field with experience 2. Okaloosa County, which is within NWFSC s service area, will require 100% of its Head Start teachers to hold this credential. While this program will not graduate students in time to accommodate this local deadline, as future vacancies occur in child development centers, the employment pool will include new baccalaureate-degreed applicants. Furthermore, employees will be able to improve their qualifications through this program. Despite the increasing demand, there are no institutions located in the western Florida Panhandle providing an opportunity for students to earn a bachelor s degree in Early Childhood Education. D. Facilities and Equipment Specific to Program Area The proposed program will use two adjacent buildings providing wireless Internet access, a student resource room with instructional materials, smart classrooms, and offices. NWFSC s NAEYC accredited Child Development and Education Center (CDEC) will serve as a lab classroom. No new facilities or renovations will be necessary. E. Library/Media Specific to Program Area NWFSC provides a rich collection of print and electronic resources and access to state university and other college holdings. NWFSC s CDEC resources include over 1,100 additional items. Materials for purchase have been identified (see Appendix P). F. Academic Resources Specific to Program Area Two full time faculty members will be employed in this program, one of whom is already on staff. Upon SACSCOC and State Board approval of the proposed program, the college will hire the second full-time faculty member, who will hold a terminal degree in Early Childhood Education. Part-time faculty are already on staff in the related associate degree and certificate programs. Existing library and advising staff are sufficient to support the new program. 2 PUBLIC LAW DEC. 12, 2007, (Head Start Act of 2007), Section 648A Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 5

22 G. Cost to Students The estimated cost to a student for this four-year degree at NWFSC is $12,790. No other institutions located in the service area or the region offer a baccalaureate in Early Childhood Education. Nova Southeastern University s online degree program costs a student approximately $77,400 for the same degree. The University of West Florida (UWF) offers only a minor in Early Childhood, not a bachelor s degree in that field. A student enrolled in UWF s education programs can expect to pay between $24,000 and $27,000, depending on the location and delivery method. H. Academic Content The proposed baccalaureate degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four (CIP Code , Track 2) will not be a limited access program. Students may enter the program with either an A.A. or A.S. degree after completing the state-mandated prerequisites. The college anticipates a studentto-teacher ratio of 25:1. The 120-credit program will consist of: 21 lower division prerequisite credits 36 general education credits 3 3 elective credits 18 lower division technical credits 42 upper division specialized credits NWFSC exceeds the SACSCOC requirement that 25% of coursework needed for the degree is taught by faculty with a terminal degree in field. SACSCOC has been notified of the college s intention to offer this degree, pending State Board approval. I. Enrollment, Performance, and Budget Plan NWFSC expects that planning costs in will consist of $19,186. In , revenues from tuition and fees are predicted to be $94,872, and total program expenditures of $84,011 are anticipated. In subsequent years, when enrollments of 100 are projected, the college anticipates expenditures of $228,878 and $234,083. Revenue is expected to exceed costs. (See Table 17.0, p. 33.) J. Plan of Action If Program Must Be Terminated Should the program be terminated, college procedures stipulate that no new students will be admitted, graduation opportunities will be maximized, and students will be assisted in transferring to other colleges and/or programs of study. Faculty and staff will be transferred to other duties or assisted in finding other employment. 3 The college will amend the program of study to remain in compliance with legislation requiring 30 general education hours as details are provided by the state. Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 6

23 EVALUATION CRITERIA A. PLANNING PROCESS 1. Internal Process and Meetings (Limit 800 words) The impetus for NWFSC s proposed degree in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four (CIP Code , Track 2), came from the community that the college serves. The college received a September 1, 2011, letter (See Appendix A) from Okaloosa-Walton Child Care Services stating, in part, that As the predominant agency providing direct training and technical assistance to early childhood programs, we are in a position to notice trends and needs within the industry... We have many teachers within classrooms with A.A.S. or A.S. degrees in Early Childhood expressing a desire to continue their education by obtaining a four-year degree. Currently there is no local institution offering a four-year degree in early childhood in the four-county area.... It is estimated at this time there are approximately 246 individuals with Associate s degrees working in the early childhood industry in Okaloosa and Walton counties. Northwest Florida State College has an opportunity to be the first in northwest Florida to offer a four-year degree that will professionalize an industry that will impact the future and welfare of our most precious resource, our children. Upon receipt of this letter, President Handy charged Dr. Jarrell, Vice President for Academic Affairs, with evaluating the feasibility of this degree. Following a January 4, 2012, meeting of the Baccalaureate Planning Committee (see Appendix B for notes), Dr. Jarrell convened a task force for the Early Childhood Baccalaureate (ECBT) led by the Dean to whom Teacher Education programs report. This group analyzed the state and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) approval processes, workforce demand, external support, possible curriculum, budget, and available college resources. The task force reported regularly to the Vice President s Deans Staff Meeting, the Baccalaureate Planning Committee, and the Curriculum Committee. On February 6 and July 24, 2012, the ECBT hosted NWFSC Listens meetings for the Early Childhood community. (See Appendix C for minutes.) The attendees expressed unanimous support for the degree and proposed curriculum, citing not only the welfare of local children, but also the pressure from regulatory and accrediting bodies to improve staff s educational qualifications. (See Appendix D for letters of support.) Convinced of the community s need for the degree, on February 14, 2012, Dr. Jarrell presented the program proposal to the NWFSC Curriculum Committee. The Committee expressed consensus that the program would benefit the college and community. (See Appendix E for Curriculum Committee minutes.) On February 21, 2012, Dr. Handy requested that the NWFSC Board of Trustees approve the college s efforts to offer the baccalaureate program, with the understanding that should demand be saturated, the college would discontinue the program. The Board endorsed the request, instructing Dr. Handy to notify the Division of Florida Colleges and SACSCOC of the college s intention. (See Appendix F for Board of Trustees minutes and resolution.) Dr. Handy sent a letter of intent to the Chancellor of the Division of Florida Colleges on April 9, 2012, and Dr. Jarrell contacted Dr. Belle Wheelan, President of SACSCOC, on September 21, 2012, conveying the college s plans to offer the new bachelor s degree. (See Appendix G for letters.) Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 7

24 In July 2012, the ECBT released an online survey for the Early Childhood community (see Appendix H for survey) which was answered by 134 respondents. Of these, 67.9% are potential students; 30.6% are employers in the field (some of these are also potential students); 63.4% have an associate s degree and are ready for upper division work; 84.5% provided contact information and requested that NWFSC contact them when the degree is offered; 99.3% indicated that NWFSC should offer a degree in Early Childhood Education. In the survey s optional other comments field, 53.6% of respondents entered comments. All responses regarding the potential program were positive; typical remarks included the following: There currently is no bachelor's degree program in Early Childhood Education in the Panhandle of Florida.... NWFSC would fill a definite void by offering this degree. I'm so glad that you are finally offering this degree closer to home. I'm over fifty and work full time and until now I figured having a Bachelor s degree was not an option. So I would be one of the first to sign up to finish a professional and personal goal of mine.... Also the state requires a higher level of education to move up in our field. A second survey (see Appendix H), targeting childcare center directors and administrators, was launched, in accordance with Florida Department of Education recommendations 4. Forty respondents reported expecting to hire 27 classroom teachers and 9 administrators in the next twelve months. 2. External Process and Meetings (Limit 1200 words) As part of its efforts to ascertain need, members of the ECBT task force met with Teacher Education personnel at the University of West Florida (UWF) on December 1, UWF no longer offers this degree, due to lack of demand, a problem NWFSC does not face, but the university does offer a minor in Early Childhood Education. The institutions do not intend to partner in the degree, but UWF faculty expressed their support for the program at NWFSC and stressed that students throughout the region, including those from Pensacola, would benefit from this degree if the college scheduled classes flexibly (see Appendix I for meeting notes). Therefore, NWFSC staff remain committed to innovative scheduling for working students. The close collaboration between UWF and NWFSC, exemplified in the NWF2UWF program (see Appendix J), has resulted in many informal conversations between Dr. Handy, NWFSC President, and Dr. Judy Bense, President of UWF. During a February 17, 2012, conversation, Dr. Handy communicated via phone the college s interest in offering a bachelor s degree in Early Childhood Education to Dr. Judy Bense. In January 2013, UWF wrote a letter of support for the proposed program (see Appendix K).The college looks forward to detailed discussions regarding the feasibility of including the proposed degree in the existing articulation agreement with UWF s graduate programs in Exceptional Student Education and Curriculum and Instruction. In July 2012, further correspondence with other institutions within the region ensued (see Appendix K). No institution within the college s service district offers or plans to offer a baccalaureate in Early Childhood Education. 4 Guidelines for Labor Market Demand and Education Supply Analysis in Community College Proposals for Bachelor's Degrees at Northwest Florida State College B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Birth through Four 8