Budgets and policy changes were the main topics of discussion during the Flint Hills Technical College Board of Trustees meeting Monday.
Board members were given a look at a rough draft of the FHTC budget for the 2018-19 academic year. College administrators are determining budget figures with week-to-week enrollment slightly lower from this time last year. FHTC President Dr. Dean Hollenbeck says it is difficult to plan a budget that is dependent on enrollment numbers when those numbers are still not complete.
Lower income was noted due to flat enrollment rates over the past year, and if projections hold the college could need around $80,000 to balance the budget. Planning continues in case that step is needed later.
Discussion also took place on revisions of the Drug-Free Policy. The discussion centered on the involvement of law enforcement for violations of the policy, specifically involving students under the influence of alcohol during college-sponsored events or on campus. Board members felt if the students were under the age of consumption, therefore violating the law, police involvement would be necessary. It was decided if students over the age of consumption violate the policy it would be a matter for college administration to handle with disciplinary action as no state or federal laws would be violated.
Hollenbeck says when it comes to matters such as this proper understanding of policies is crucial for both staff and students.
Board members unanimously agreed to the policy revisions.
Other topics of discussion included a presentation on the Interactive Multimedia Design program, the creation of a new associate degree for the nursing program — which could be approved in June — and plans for graduation ceremonies this weekend.
The board will next meet June 11.
