The institutional policies of TSTC are codified in System Operating Standards (SOS),[Ref 1] each of which must be approved by the Board of Regents. [Ref 2]
Institutional Policy
The Board of Regents legal authority and operating control to implement policy within the institution's governance structure is defined in Texas Statutes, Education Code [Ref 3] and TSTC System Operating Standards (SOS) GA 1.3 [Ref 4] This policy cites the Texas Statutes, Education Code, as the source of the authority for the Board of Regents in setting policies. The SOS also refers to the Board of Regents Bylaws [Ref 5] for more specific information, stating: "The Board shall enact such policies, rules, and regulations as it deems necessary for the successful management and operation of the system. The Board is the final authority on all internal matters related to the governance and operation of the Texas State Technical College System." Additionally, the SOS requires each college in the system to develop and implement a College Operating Procedure (COP) for every SOS. At Texas State Technical College Harlingen, all COPs [Ref 6] are published on the college web site for access by faculty, staff and other interested parties.
Affiliated Corporate Entities
The Board of Regents legal authority and operating control of policies concerning related and affiliated corporate entities and all auxiliary services are also provided within Texas Statues [Ref 7] & [Ref 8]. The statutes creating Texas State Technical College identify the circumstances under which the college may contract with political subdivisions, state agencies and private entities to provide extension programs, educational programs and programs for economic development. Chapter 135.54 of Vernon's Texas Education Code [Ref 9] grants the TSTC Board of Regents the power to contract with individuals, federal, state and local agencies and departments, corporations and associations for education programs.
The Education Code, paragraph 51.352 [Ref 10] outlines the responsibility of the Board of Regents' governance to include the nurturing of each institution and ensure they achieve their full potential within their role and mission. The Board authority is to approve the chancellor or other executive officer of the system as well as appoint the president or chief executive officer of each institution under its control.
Auxiliary Services
Texas Education Code also governs auxiliary funds; paragraph 51.002 [Ref 11] stipulates, "The governing board of each institution ... may retain control of the following sums of money collected at the institution ...;" generally known as auxiliary funds. At TSTC, auxiliary services are essential services used by students, faculty, staff, visitors, business and industry. Auxiliary services include the bookstore, cafeteria, student housing, vending operations and parking.
The college President is responsible for the organization, administration, development and management of the college and is accountable to the chancellor of the TSTC Systems. The President is responsible for the day-to-day operations, developing, implementing and monitoring policies and procedures to guide the college.
The appropriate Vice President, the Chief Financial Officer and the Board of Regents monitor the functions provided through Auxiliary Services.
