Articles - Spring 2007 - return to index
Board seeks legislative support for community colleges
The Board of Education recognizes that Lane Community College provides a quality education despite financial limitations, and we applaud efforts to improve learning experiences at Lane. However, reductions in state funding over the last five years limit what Lane can offer, and we’re facing another deficit in 2007/08.
The governor’s proposed budget for the next biennium is a good starting point, but doesn’t go far enough. The board will work to educate legislators that the governor’s budget is just the floor. Funding for Oregon’s 17 community colleges must be increased to at least $529 million to sustain the colleges’ unique role as the primary providers of workforce training and education.
Economic studies show that community colleges are a sound investment from multiple perspectives. Please join the Board of Education in helping legislators understand the importance of community college education in our economy, our lives, our workplaces, and our community.
