An article in the August 24th Courier-Journal highlighted the overwhelming demand for classes in our region’s community colleges, which are often a first stop for first-generation students on the way to a four-year degree. Some students are being turned away and others are prolonging their education until space becomes available in required courses.
Community colleges have been in the news a lot lately, perhaps the result of President Obama’s goal to graduate five million more Americans from the country’s community colleges by 2020, and recognition of their critical role in retraining workers for new jobs in a changing economy. This focus is long overdue.
The Greater Louisville Project Competitive City Report highlights the need to increase educational levels in our community to support growth of 21st Century Jobs and enhance our quality of place. Without access to community colleges many first-generation students may not have the opportunity to begin or continue their education.
How can we ensure that community college remains accessible to everyone?