Joe Mehlmann

john, Thank you for your post. On a different subject: please note that the section in this course on TWC Outcomes Reports is outdated. There is a revision pending to correct this. In summary, the annual TWC CSC enrollment and outcomes report is now submitted through an internet portal and is no longer submitted on paper as the course states. Please see the TWC rules and forms section for the correct information on the TWC outcomes report. JP Mehlmann

Juan, Since your program is short, be sure to review the TWC CSC rules to make sure that your progress policy (including graduation requirements) is in compliance. JP Mehlmann

Audrey , In either of the examples you mentioned, the experience or education should be significant enough to justify a variance application. Since a variance is an exceptional situation, it should only be used sparingly - in cases where you believe the instructor is otherwise qualified. JP Mehlmann

Beki, Good answer. Although not always thought of as a satisfactory progress issue, another graduation requirement is that the student finish within 150% of the normal time to complete. For students with multiple drops/re-enters, the decision whether or not to allow a re-enter could be based on if the student would exceed 150% if he/she returns to school. JP Mehlmann

Arturo, Yes, foreign credentials can be a challenge. It is a good practice to have a reputable translation service provide an accurate translation of the foreign transcript and/or certificate to accompany any variance application. Such a service is also needed to verify foreign HS credentials of new enrollees. JP Mehlmann

Beki, Yes - It is good to have other eyes review all applications but a good practice is to be knowledgeable and thorough when putting the application together in the first place. Ultimately, the school director (campus president) is responsible for any submissions so it is good to be thoroughly involved. JP Mehlmann

Beki, Please review page 9 of the Instructor Application form (PS-002 which must be submitted). This portion of the PS-002 instructions describes in detail how to complete an instructor application under a variance. I do not see any indication that one or more of the criteria must be met. However and in-part, the application must include: the applicants qualifications must be described in detail; instructor candidate must score 90% or higher on subject(s) to be taught; and the school must commit to submit future student evaluations if the instructor is approved. JP Mehlmann

Joseph, Since an instructor must meet or exceed the minimum TWC CSC requirements prior to hire, a training and mentor program may be appropriate for a person who is just shy of meeting the requirements. Such a person could be hired as a lab assistant or teacher assistant, who would work under/with an approved/qualified instructor. The challenge is, prior to allowing this person to teach solo, coming up with a solid variance application to obtain CSC approval. JP Mehlmann

Joseph, Yes - always a good idea to involve multiple people/departments while developing a new program. This particular aspect of compliance is very important to receiving timely approval, therefore it is highly recommended to have a process where one or more persons review all new program applications to ensure each application is complete. JP Mehlmann

Lisa, Hi Lisa, I think a "W" is ok as long as the student did not request a grade. If the student requests a grade, then an "I" would seem necessary. I believe the TWC is more concerned that such students who return within a year are not charged additional tuition. If your catalog covers this information then it is up to the student to be aware of the policies. Thanks. JP Mehlmann