SAN FRANCISCO—In January 2015, San Francisco Superior Court Judge Curtis Karnow will make a ruling on the case concerning the fate of San Francisco City College.
Last year, the western branch of the Accrediting Commission for City and Junior Colleges revoked SFCC’s accreditation, a move that is being challenged by City Attorney Dennis Herrera.
For the school, a loss of accreditation would cut-off state and federal funding.
Following October’s period of non-jury testimony, Judge Karnow spoke at the beginning of Tuesday’s closing arguments before fielding a three-hour closing session for both sides.
Though the SFCC is not a plaintiff in the case, the lawsuit claims a conflict of interest in the ranks of the Accrediting Commission for City and Junior Colleges, pointing out that the husband of ACCJC President Barbera Beno was a part of the evaluation process.
The defense is arguing that the 19 members of the committee were simply carrying out their duty, and that no conflict of interest was present during the evaluation process.
Judge Karnow gave no indication of what his ruling will be. Following his decision, both parties will have a period of 15 days to counter with potential changes.
By Joseph Wilhelm
