November 17, 2011
California Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott Issues Statement on the
Public Policy Institute of California’s Higher Education Survey
Public support for the community college system remains high and virtually unchanged since 2007
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California Community Colleges Chancellor Jack Scott today issued a statement on the Public Policy Institute of California’s survey “Californians & higher education.” The survey, released last night, says most Californians believe budget cuts have significantly hurt the state’s three systems of public higher education and, with the probability of more funding reductions on the horizon, believe higher education is heading in the wrong direction. Despite the state’s budget woes, 62 percent of Californians gave the California Community Colleges a good or excellent rating, higher than the California State University and University of California systems:
"I am gratified that public support for California’s community colleges remains high, especially during these difficult times. It's clearer than ever that we need to keep our state’s colleges affordable. Unfortunately, the budget situation will likely force another round of cuts and a fee increase for our students. Through our Student Success Task Force we are working to make our colleges even better by improving completion rates. This is no substitute, however, for the additional investment that we as a state need to make in higher education."
The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation. It is composed of 72 districts and 112 colleges serving 2.6 million students each year. Community colleges supply workforce training, basic skills courses in English and math, and prepare students for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. The Chancellor’s Office provides leadership, advocacy and support under the direction of the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges.
Posted: Nov, 18, 2011