The academic-standards policy of the community college is often inconsistent with the open-door admissions policy. A large number of community colleges still used a fixed Grade Point Average (GPA) standard when determining academic standing. Would it not be sounder educational policy to use a developmental system of GPA requirements in determining probation and dismissal? A possible model for academic probation is: .80 by completion of 12 semester hours; 1.20 by completion of 24 semester hours; 1.50 by completion of 36 semester hours; 1.80 by completion of 48 semester hours; and 2.00 by completion of 60 semester hours. A student who falls below these standards would automatically be placed on scholastic probation until the next category of semester hours is reached. Only under very unusual circumstances would a student be allowed to remain on probation for a third successive semester. Of what value is it, either to the student or to society, to admit a student who needs academic assistance and place him on probation before he has had time to become stronger academically? The community college cannot fulfill its philosophy properly if it does not feel free to develop techniques and policies that enhance its philosophy. (DB)