By: curry mitchell, Academic Senate VP; contributions from Luke Lara, Jim Julius, and Sean Davis When we transitioned to teaching in online spaces during the pandemic, some folks–including me–insisted that we keep in mind the difference between “remote instruction” and “online teaching.” That may sound snobby. I hear you. But I don’t mean it to be. Getting into the Distinctions Remote instruction describes a quick pivot, making do, being responsive to meet unplanned for circu

by dara, FA Vice President As the full-time faculty collective bargaining unit, our Faculty Assembly belongs to The California Community College Independents (CCCI), “an association of independent bargaining agents for California community college faculty,” and we are one of 13 member community colleges. Many of us might not have heard of CCCI or could use reminding of their purpose. Mission of Representation CCCI's Mission of Representation is to provide a formal statewide v

By Mary Gross, FA President What We've Been Up To! To say the fall semester and my first as FA President has flown by would be an understatement! We have accomplished much this semester, and it would not have been possible without the support of a strong Executive Committee and FA Council. MOU and Negotiations Updates Most notably, we have negotiated many MOUs to assist us with our work and working conditions. The Online Peer Mentoring program has been expanded and extended;

By Abby Burd, LCSW, Mental Health Counselor, Health Services We have many resources to support our students' mental health, but I am also hoping you value prioritizing YOUR OWN mental health. One of my favorite fringe benefits at MiraCosta College is the offer of mental health services through MHN for Kaiser Members. PPO Members can find even more in-network therapists through CIGNA, and I got you covered here, too. I have been a Kaiser Member for many years and value the sim

by Annie Ngo, FA Contract & Evaluation Liaison Do you have a question about the contract? Please submit your questions to Annie at https://forms.gle/TQUo1tEFi18fBfXy6. Please note that questions regarding benefits should be directed to Human Resources: Carolyn Sneary, CSneary@miracosta.edu Here are three recent questions that were submitted by faculty and may be helpful to know. Q: Can I take FMLA to take care of a parent? A: Yes, see F.5.2 Family Leave, reason #3: Employees

by dara, FA Vice President The FA Council held two events this semester, and they were both great! In October, we had an on-campus Education Luncheon where participants got to see each other in person, learned some quick facts about our contract, spun the wheel for a cool prize, and ate a delicious lunch! In November, we hosted a happy hour at Fat Joe’s in Oceanside, a neighborhood bar/arcade. We had a great time sharing food, drink, and fun, and it was a terrific way to conn