2025-2026 MELA Minutes

(i) Dr. LeBrun presented a proposed procurement framework designed to improve planning, transparency, and compliance. The framework introduces a structured process for identifying needs, evaluating solutions, and developing business cases. (ii) Governance and Responsibilities 1. The process includes multiple levels of review and approval, including group vote, MACC action, MCCB Board approval, ITS Board approval, and legal review. (iii)MCCB Responsibilities 1. MCCB will assume responsibility for documentation, vendor coordination, usage data collection, and cost justification. (iv) Timeline and Evaluation 1. Procurement timelines will begin earlier, with major contract reviews starting approximately 15 months prior to expiration. 2. Annual usage reporting will be required, and clear discontinuation criteria will be established to guide renewal decisions. (v) Process Improvements and Next Steps 1. Moving forward, the process will require documented evaluation, consistent data collection, and transparent justification. 2. The draft framework will be distributed for review, feedback will be incorporated, and a revised version will be presented for formal approval. ii) SmarterServices (1) SmarterServices has offered to meet with the group to discuss services and answer questions. (2) The vendor is open to further conversation and collaboration (a) Virtual Proctoring proposed change: Shift from following the student to following the course and remaining aligned with the institution. (b) The billing process would remain the same. iii) Website Updates (1) MSVCC.org will sunset due to: (a) Upcoming accessibility compliance standards and deadlines (b) Redesign of the MCCB website. (2) All information has been migrated to the MCCB website to make it easier to stay in compliance and create uniformity with the different MCCB departments. iv) Canvas Customizable Dashboard feature release on April 18. v) Canvas Student Modules Experience improvements are being made. c) MSVCC Committee Reports i) The Administrative Committee of the Mississippi eLearning Association (MeLA), in conjunction with the Mississippi Community College Board (MCCB), sets forth the policies and procedures to inform partner colleges of the operations and expectations related to the Mississippi Virtual Community College (MSVCC). (1) The P&P is approved by MeLA, then the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges (MCCA), then MCCB. (2) The last formal approval occurred in August 2024 ii) The MSVCC Calendar b) Dr. Christa Wilhite (MCCB) i) DEN Badge Completion Digital Badges (1) Updated completion hours for Professional Development credit. (2) Additional hours added to: (a) Digital Teaching and Learning (b) MSVCC Tech Tools Course (c) Academy Overview Course 1) Administrative Committee a) Policies and Procedures Manual Overview-Buffy Matthews (MGCCC)