There is no truth to the rumors reportedly being circulated claiming that the state of California is closing Cerro Coso Community College due to the growing state deficit. According to a statement issued recently by Public Relations Director Natalie Dorrell, “The news from the California Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) regarding the state’s deficit changes daily. However, the growing state shortfall could result in a reduction in the Kern Community College District (KCCD) budget between $13.2 and $17.8 million for the 2013 and 2014 budget years. As a result, KCCD is proactively developing a strategic plan that will drive the budget that considers both worst case and best case scenarios.

“This plan does not include closing any of the three colleges within the KCCD, which include Cerro Coso Community College, Bakersfield College, and Porterville College. An aggressive district-wide planning process is underway. Programs, support services, and operations are being prioritized to best serve our communities and students in the most effective manner possible with the resources that are available. KCCD and the Cerro Coso Community College are committed to their mission of providing outstanding education programs and services that are tailored to the students and workforce needs of the rural communities we serve.”

Earlier this year, The Sheet reported that Cerro Coso was not in financial difficulty, and in fact, was prepared for state budget cuts.