TDCJ General Information

HISTORY

Trinity Valley Community College (TVCC) began offering classes at the Coffield Unit of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) in the spring of 1969, with two classes and approximately 20 students.  Today, many general academic courses and numerous workforce certificate programs are offered to students at the Beto, Coffield, Michael, and Powledge Units.  

Currently, a Director of Correctional Education is employed to perform the on-site administrative duties. Advisement duties are assigned to the TVCC Unit Enrollment Coordinators and the appropriate administrative staff.

CURRICULA

TVCC makes a serious effort to meet the educational needs of TDCJ students. To meet these needs, TVCC offers diverse curricula when possible. Academic courses are offered in a trimester format. In addition, there are several workforce certificate programs offered to students in three eight-week semesters. Finally, continuing education workforce certificate courses are available to students at no charge. Students should check with the TVCC Unit Enrollment Coordinators to determine which TDCJ units offer these programs.

ACCREDITATION  

TVCC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award certificates, associate and baccalaureate degrees. Questions about the accreditation of TVCC may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website.

PROGRAM APPROVAL

Programs, courses and degrees offered by TVCC are approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).

VISION

TVCC will be a leader in providing quality education, innovative programs, and purpose for our students, employees, and communities.

MISSION 

Transforming lives through affordable and accessible education.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The TVCC Statement of Purpose is determined in statute identified in the Texas Education Code, Section 130.003, which states that the charge of each public community college shall be to provide the following:

  • Technical programs up to two years in length leading to an associate degree or certificates;
  • Vocational programs leading directly to employment in semi-skilled or skilled occupations;
  • Freshman and/or sophomore courses in arts and sciences;
  • Continuing adult education programs for occupational or cultural upgrading;
  • Compensatory education programs designed to fulfill the commitment of an admissions policy that allow the enrollment of disadvantaged students;
  • A continuing program of counseling and guidance designed to assist students in achieving their individual educational goals;
  • Workforce development program designed to meet local and statewide needs;
  • Adult literacy and other basic skills programs for adults; and
  • Other purposes as may be prescribed by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for post-secondary education in Texas.

VALUES

TVCC adopted “The Cardinal Way” as its service standards. The Cardinal Way is to be a leader and these are the actions of a leader.
● Courageous
● Accountable
● Respectful
● Driven
● Inspirational
● Networker
● Authentic
● Life-long learner

POLICY OF RIGHTS

The board of trustees of TVCC expects employees, students, visitors, and guests to the College to accept the following responsibilities: 

  • Comply with and support of duly constituted civil authority.
  • Respect the rights of others and cooperate to ensure that such rights are maintained, whether one agrees with the views of those exercising such rights.
  • Cooperate to ensure that the will of the majority is implemented after due consideration, but not to include the suppression of the minority.
  • Exercise disagreement in a responsible manner and within a framework compatible with the orderly resolution of differences.
  • Knowledge of and active support of college regulations.

​Upon registering at TVCC, the student acknowledges the authority of the College and agrees to abide by any regulation concerning students and student organizations.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

The purpose of this policy is to secure at the first possible level prompt and equitable resolution of student complaints, including those alleging discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age or disability.  If the complaint involves a problem with an instructor, the student shall discuss the matter with the instructor or TVCC employee by correspondence or conference.

If the outcome of the conference is not to the student's satisfaction, the student has 15 calendar days to submit a written complaint that includes a statement of the complaint and any evidence in its support with the student's signature and date to the Director of Correctional Education.