This is a preview of our Texas 2036 newsletter about Texas community colleges, from the Ogallala Aquifer to the agriculture industry. To receive this weekly highlight of our work, sign up here.
The Importance of Community Colleges in Texas 🎒
Come One, Come All: Community colleges play a critical role in our state’s economy by developing our workforce and preparing students for further academic study.
- There are 50 community college districts serving Texas.
The Way Forward: Community colleges are uniquely positioned to meet the state’s growing demands for skilled labor through quick and affordable pathways to earn credentials and ultimately self-sustaining wages.
- By 2030, 62% of all Texas jobs will require some sort of postsecondary credential.
- Currently, only 23% of Texas students earn a postsecondary degree within six years of graduation.
Money Talks:Over the past 40 years, the state’s share of funding for community colleges has declined from 68% to 26%,with the balance paid for by higher tuition and property taxes.
- State leaders can improve student outcomes and ease financial burdens on taxpayers by investing in community colleges.
The Price Is Right: Still, community colleges are much more affordable than other higher education options.
- In the 2017-18 school year, Texas’ two-year institutions of higher education had the nation’s fourth-lowest tuition and fees, according to the Texas Comptroller.
Change Is Coming: The Texas Commission on Community College Finance recently offered recommendations to strengthen our higher education system.
- Texas 2036 firmly supports the recommendations, which will help support business needs to grow our state’s economy.
Next Up: The Commission will vote to approve the recommendations in October followed by final action during the 88th Texas Legislative Session.
Extra Credit Reading: Learn more about the Texas Commission on Community College Finance recommendations in these articles featuring Texas 2036 Policy Advisor Renzo Soto.
- “Texas could tie community college funding to student outcomes” –Texas Tribune
- “Texas needs to revamp community colleges. Here’s what may be needed” –Dallas Morning News
- “Texas aims to tie community college funding to student outcomes, increase need-based financial aid” –Community Impact
- “Draft recommendations make ‘major’ changes in college funding formulas” –Odessa American
📕 Did you attend a community college? 🧑🏭