This report reflects the shift to precepts of learning and the learning environment. Whether it is technology-based testing or service learning, committees investigated, discussed, and sometimes developed recommendations to improve or enhance learning across the district through various tools and systems. Common themes that propelled forward, such as training and time, were not new but still critical. Yet, inspired new interests in enhancing learning through such areas as assessment, learning communities, and structures also surfaced.

In an effort to ensure that specific committee recommendations were being heard by the "right" groups of people within our district, a new process for making recommendations was developed last year and was implemented this year. Therefore, unlike previous year-end reports, you will not see lists of recommendations but rather a summary of the discussions about each committee's topic and directions for the future. Suggestions for change, or action items, were sent through the recommendations process and were acted upon as they were brought forth.

In addition to working with its committees, sponsoring annual Kick-off and Retreat events, and hosting a variety of Dialogue Days on topics related to learning, Ocotillo co-sponsored the Student Success Conference this year. Not only were we able to share resources and expertise, we pursued a holistic approach to student success. Ocotillo, student development, and advisement representatives will work as partners in the future as we address a common interest, the success of our students.

Because of its grass-roots, faculty-driven structure, Ocotillo is a unique model for change and innovation. Faculty and administrators from ten colleges and the district office meet together to discuss shared assumptions and ideas. As the committee topics change from year-to-year, and as we face an unpredictable future, Ocotillo must remain fluid and responsive. Ocotillo's evolution has continued to provide leadership opportunities and learning experiences for many people, including this year's faculty chair and administrative co-chair. We're grateful we had the opportunity to work with a dedicated group of people who are striving to provide an effective learning environment for our students.

Maria L. Hesse, Ocotillo Chair
Naomi O. Story, Ocotillo Project Manager