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The Challenge
Improve scheduling consistency and implement strategic scheduling principles to avoid time conflicts
When the largest campus building at Prince George’s Community College, Largo, Maryland, came off-line for a major renovation, the institution found itself with an immediate imperative: to take a close look at its space utilization. At this time, the institution also experienced a reduction in funding due to a lack of stability in the 10-Year Maryland Blueprint Project, a state-wide education reform initiative.
The institution understood that to successfully implement sweeping scheduling changes, they would first need to establish scheduling consistency. Because there was little codified in this area, the first steps would be to set up rules around course cancellations and to establish time blocks.
Rachel Poleto, who was hired as Registrar in 2020, was tasked with creating a new strategic course scheduling team that would include Deans, Associate Deans, advising, extension centers and representatives from dual enrollment.
“Most of our students are working and have families. To have upheaval in the 25th hour is not good,” said Angela Anderson, Dean for Health, Wellness, and Hospitality, Prince George’s Community College. “If students get held up by even one course, it could potentially mean a whole semester before they complete their certificate or degree and be eligible to take their certification/licensure exam, delaying them from entering the workforce.”
