Merced College

Key discussions focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) administrative procedures and board policies, including definitions and ethical use of AI implementation. The current technology adoption process, utilizing a Laserfiche form for new tool submissions, requires dual approval followed by review from the OETPC for instructional suitability. A future review process mandating HECFAT and VPAT compliance for all Canvas educational software integrations was addressed, acknowledging instructor expertise limitations regarding these compliance standards. Specific platform discussions included the integration of the Nectir.AI Canvas tool and the LibreText ADAPT LTI integration, noting security concerns preventing the latter's LTI enablement. Additionally, the committee reviewed the Thorium Reader, a new library vendor reader that has been approved.

The organizational meeting involved the election of new Board Officers, naming Joe Gutierrez as Board President, Ernie Ochoa as Board Vice President, and Kory Benson as Board Clerk. During Closed Session, the Board voted to deny one liability claim and accept another. Upon resuming Public Session, the Board authorized the Superintendent/President to serve as Secretary and as the authorized representative for signatures. Board representation appointments to various College standing committees were approved. The Board also approved a Compounded Longevity Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CSEA and its Chapter 274, adopted a resolution to withdraw from the Schools Excess Liability Fund (SELF) effective December 31, 2025, approved the appointment of Michelle Symes-Thiara as Senior Director of Human Resources, and approved changes to Board Policy BP 6250 regarding Budget Management. Presentations were given on the Career and Transfer Center's initiatives and the 2025 Annual Security and Crime Statistics.

The Curriculum Committee meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics. An overview of Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) was presented, emphasizing its role in increasing access for non-traditional students. The committee discussed updating course prefixes impacted by the Common Course Numbering (CCN) initiative. Updates were provided from the Distance Education Committee (DE), Program Review Outcomes & Assessment (PROAC), Chancellor's Office & Accreditation, Articulation & C-ID, and Legislative matters. Taskforce updates were given on AB 928 Senate Taskforce, Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) Taskforce, Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Taskforce, and Competency Based Education (CBE) Taskforce.

The committee discussed Gemini and NotebookLM, focusing on the ethical use of AI in education, AI-assisted assignments, and grading. Instructors were encouraged to provide human feedback alongside AI-generated content and develop best practices for AI use. NotebookLM was presented as a study tool for students, capable of summarizing documents and creating interactives. The potential for Gemini LTI integration with Canvas was explored, along with the broader implications of AI in education and the importance of transparency in instructional technology discussions.

The Board meeting included presentations on student perspectives, enrollment trends, demographic shifts, and survey summaries. There were discussions regarding faculty workload, challenges students face in returning to campus, and efforts to connect with minority communities through grant initiatives. The board also discussed and approved a funding plan for the Downey Learning Resource Center, a successor agreement with the Police Officers Association, a resolution to layoff positions due to expiring categorical funds, and the academic/institutional calendar for 2026-2027. Additionally, the board reviewed the Professional Development Plan for 2025-2026 and a sabbatical leave outcome report.