The legislation authorizes a total of $50 million in appropriations to fund the grant program over a period of five years. Each eligible institution can receive a minimum grant amount of $1 million, which will be utilized to develop a comprehensive skills-for-success curriculum that includes essential topics such as mental well-being, time management, and interpersonal relationship skills. This initiative is designed to holistically prepare students for the challenges of college life, ultimately aiming to improve retention rates and student performance across various demographics.
Summary
House Bill 9824, referred to as the College Thriving Act, aims to establish a grant program administered by the Secretary of Education which focuses on supporting skills-for-success courses for first-year students enrolled at designated institutions of higher education. The bill emphasizes the need for educational institutions to develop and implement programs that enhance student success through practical skill development and support systems. Institutions that are historically Black colleges and universities will be given priority in receiving these grants, which signify a legislative effort to bolster support for institutions that have historically faced funding disparities.
Contention
While the bill enjoys broad support due to its focus on improving educational outcomes and addressing equity in education funding, there are concerns about the implementation and oversight of such programs. Critics may argue that prioritizing historically Black colleges and universities could raise questions about accessibility for other institutions seeking similar resources. Furthermore, the necessity and effectiveness of the designated curriculum elements may spark discussions among educators and policymakers regarding what constitutes essential skills for success at the college level. These contentious points highlight the complexity of reforming higher education funding and support structures.
To amend the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act to direct the Secretary of Labor to award grants to community colleges for high-quality workforce development programs.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
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.