Dear West Hills Community,
In light of recent acts of violence at educational institutions across our nation, I want to address the concerns and distress these events may be causing within our educational community. These incidents serve as sobering reminders of the importance of maintaining safe, supportive environments for everyone who works, learns, and visits our campuses.
Your safety and well-being remain our highest priority. At Lemoore College, Coalinga College, Firebaugh Center, and our district office, we have comprehensive safety protocols in place and work closely with local law enforcement to ensure secure campus environments. Our security measures are regularly reviewed and updated to address emerging concerns.
As educators, we also recognize that violence often stems from the breakdown of understanding and communication. We are committed to fostering an environment where healthy dialogue, critical thinking, and respectful discourse thrive. Our role extends beyond teaching subjects—we help build citizens who can engage thoughtfully with difficult issues and treat others with dignity, even amid disagreement.
We encourage our campus community to model the values we teach: listening to understand rather than to argue, approaching differences with curiosity rather than hostility, and creating spaces where all voices can be heard respectfully. These practices not only strengthen our educational mission but also contribute to the safer, more cohesive society we all want to see.
Together, we can continue to demonstrate that education, respect, and understanding are powerful forces for positive change in our world.
If you need support or have questions about campus safety measures, please contact your campus administration.
With our continued commitment to your safety and success,
Robert Pimentel, Ed.D
Chancellor
West Hills Community College District