Postsecondary education; allow academically successful students to use the full number of hours of HOPE scholarship eligibility
Impact
The passage of HB 1231 is expected to significantly impact the educational landscape in Georgia, particularly for private colleges and those students from foster care backgrounds. By broadening the definition of approved schools, the bill aims to increase institutional options for students seeking higher education. Additionally, the enhanced HOPE scholarship provisions could positively influence student retention and graduation rates, as they encourage students to pursue advanced degrees without losing their scholarship eligibility. This could ultimately enhance workforce readiness in Georgia.
Summary
House Bill 1231 proposes amendments to the definitions regarding tuition equalization grants at private colleges and universities in Georgia. Specifically, it revises what constitutes an 'approved school' to include certain institutions accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. Furthermore, the bill modifies eligibility criteria for the HOPE scholarship, allowing academically successful students to use the full number of hours for obtaining both baccalaureate and first professional degrees, even if they are pursued concurrently. Former foster youths would also gain access to limited HOPE scholarship eligibility under specific conditions.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 1231 appears largely supportive, particularly among educational institutions and advocates for foster youth. Proponents argue that these changes provide essential access to higher education and additional support for those who have previously faced barriers. However, there may be some contention regarding the inclusion of specific accreditation organizations, as it could raise concerns about educational standards among critics who may view this move as compromising quality for broader access.
Contention
Some points of contention could arise from the bill's potential implications for educational standards. While it is intended to increase access, critics may argue that including institutions accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools could dilute the quality of education recognized under the HOPE scholarship program. Additionally, the adjustments to eligibility criteria may generate discussions on equity in education and whether all students will be able to benefit equally from these changes, especially regarding the provisions for former foster youths.
Education; allow academically successful students who are concurrently seeking certain degrees to use the full number of hours of HOPE scholarship eligibility; provisions
Expanding the eligible fields of study and establishing a maximum scholarship amount for certain private postsecondary educational institutions in the Kansas promise scholarship act.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Requires public institutions of higher education to provide student-athletes who lose athletic scholarships because of injuries sustained while participating in athletic program with equivalent scholarships.
Requires public institutions of higher education to provide student-athletes who lose athletic scholarships because of injuries sustained while participating in athletic program with equivalent scholarships.