BACKGROUND: Since 1961, the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District has enhanced the quality of East County life by providing a top notch, affordable education. The 1,138-square-mile district includes two colleges, Grossmont and Cuyamaca. Increasingly, flexible class schedules and learning opportunities are providing a wide range of education options for busy people. The District serves about 25,000 students each semester. Grossmont first convened classes in 1961 and has about 17,000 students every semester. Cuyamaca was built in 1978 and has about 8,500 students. The colleges lead the way in developing educational programs, classes and services that meet the needs of the community of learners. MISSION STATEMENT: The district's mission is to provide outstanding learning opportunities that prepare students to meet community needs and future challenges of a complex, global society.