The Computer Information Systems program is one of the programs that the Ventura County Community College District is considering cutting in the 2012-2013 fiscal years.

The CIS program provides basic computer skills for students with the goal of immediate employment in business or industry.

The program includes three basic concepts; Microcomputer Applications, with emphasis on business computer applications. Traditional Information Systems, with emphasis on the use of large-scale computers and, microcomputer Systems, with emphasis on office computer systems.

Mary Mills, a MC Professor and full time faculty member who works in the CIS department, says she feels that the department isn’t as valued as the other programs.

“Most students are not taking it for a degree,” Mills stated. “CIS is one of those programs that students are taking it for career development, not a certificate or degree.”

If the District decides to cut the program Mills says that student’s only options for these classes will be an adult program that the Conejo Valley is working on building. The other option would be taking them at Pierce College, who says they will still be offering the classes.

Delores Moon, a MC part time faculty member, who works in the department, says she feels a sense of sadness because of the proposed department closure.

“During the last few years, many of our classes have been put online, making them also available to those students who already are working several jobs and do not have the time to attend classes on campus, but yet need our classes to either get or maintain a job,” Moon commented.

The Board of Trustees for the VCCCD met on Nov. 7, to discuss the upcoming program cuts due to take place in response to the recently decreased budget from the State of California.

With the number of enrolled students already exceeding the maximum capacity of state funds, the district is faced with budget cuts that will exceed those from previous years.

Mills who feels that the students are proactive not reactive, said “Students need to be aware, and let their board of trustees know that they want to keep the program.”

The board anticipates announcing their official decisions of the cuts that will be made for the next year in early December. They said that there will be representatives reaching out to each campus and information sessions will be held.