Rowan-Cabarrus Community College cut five classroom instructors and 16 other full-time positions this week as it began reorganizing to fit its growing enrollment into a shrinking budget.
College officials said the action will save $1.25 million, including salaries and benefits.
No programs will be eliminated, but class size and instructors’ course loads may increase. Real estate courses will be offered through RCCC’s Continuing Education Department, with increased fees.
The adjustments come as the college sees severe cuts in state funding and double-digit enrollment growth.
A press release said the reorganization process will “make the college more efficient and strengthen key functions for the future.”
Since the beginning of 2009, RCCC has seen its state funding for operations cut by 5.5 percent, meaning the college has approximately $1.2 million less in state money than it had anticipated for the year. The state also ordered spending restrictions that limit the college’s ability to buy supplies and fill vacant positions.
At the same time, Cabarrus County has reduced its funding to RCCC by 2.9 percent, a cut of $58,600.
Meanwhile, more people are turning to RCCC for education and retraining. With unemployment at 9 and 10 percent respectively in Rowan and Cabarrus counties, RCCC’s spring semester enrollment jumped 17 percent over spring 2008. Approximately 900 more students are taking classes at RCCC now than in 2008.
“We simply must reorganize the college to achieve greater efficiencies,” said RCCC President Carol Spalding in a press release. “Our enrollment has grown dramatically while our funding has been cut significantly. We anticipate similar enrollment growth in 2010 and beyond, so we must take steps now to be more efficient while strengthening some key areas of the college for the future.
“As in any reorganization process, unfortunately, positions and individuals are being affected. We have the unpleasant duty of reducing RCCC’s budget and workforce.” Spalding said.
“We anticipate no additional cuts, while hoping the state’s economy does not deteriorate more,” Spalding said.
Reducing expenses is one piece of the college’s reorganization’s plans. RCCC will strategically assess its future employment needs and may add resources in some critical areas.
“Some college employees will be asked to absorb more efficient responsibilities,” Spalding said. “Faculty may be asked to teach more classes at more locations, as well as on-line. Some class sizes may need to increase to accommodate our burgeoning enrollment. We must significantly enhance our IT functions and data network. We must increase our human resources capabilities and strengthen our ability to raise private dollars for the college. These steps will help RCCC serve the community more effectively and efficiently.”
At the March meeting of the RCCC Board of Trustees, Chairman Ray Paradowski and other board members acknowledged the need for action and supported the reorganization plans.
“State and nationwide economic pressures are forcing the college to make some difficult decisions,” Paradowski said. “While our hearts go out to those who are being impacted negatively, we know a reorganization is necessary. The board supports Dr. Spalding and the Senior Leadership Team as they work to ensure a sound future for the college.”
The positive news in RCCC’s current challenges is that state funds for construction projects have not yet been reduced. While the groundbreaking for RCCC’s building at the N.C. Research Campus awaits private financing, construction of the new 400 Building on RCCC’s North Campus has begun and will continue.