City College of San Francisco is OPEN and ACCREDITED. These are the words posted by Interim Chancellor Thelma Scott-Skillman on the front page of the college’s website.

With all the recent negative publicity surrounding City College over its threatened loss of accreditation, there is growing concern that it may discourage students from returning to the college. A drop in enrollment means a cut in state funds, which would only compound the college’s problems.

But for now, City College remains open and accredited through July 31, 2014. In the meantime, it is appealing the decision of the Accrediting Commission for Junior and Community Colleges. It hopes to revoke the decision and win more time to resolve issues cited by the commission.

Closing City College is wrong and a big disservice to students. The college is recognized as one of the best learning institutions in the country. Its student transfer rate is the highest when compared to other community colleges. The success rate of its students makes City College a beacon for higher learning. Likewise, many of its former students can be found entrenched in the San Francisco workforce.

As for our community, it will likely mean the closure of our beloved Mission campus with its many students and unique cultural flavor.

So you see, City College is worth keeping open, especially for generations to come. Don’t turn your back on City College. Re-enroll for the Fall 2013 semester. If you are a first timer, log onto register@ccsf.edu and begin the process. Instruction begins August 14.

Let’s not give up on City College. No doubt, it is an educational gem worth keeping.