Expanding the amount of promise scholarship funds awarded to persons majoring in science, technology, engineering and mathematics
Impact
If enacted, the bill could significantly alter the landscape of state funding for higher education by prioritizing financial assistance for STEM majors. This approach is anticipated to enhance the workforce in these vital areas, aiming to retain graduates within the state and boost local industries reliant on skilled professionals. The bill stipulates that the total funding for scholarships will correspond with the financial resources available to the Higher Education Policy Commission each fiscal year, necessitating careful fiscal management to ensure sustainability of the scholarship fund.
Summary
House Bill 2273 aims to amend and reenact certain provisions related to the PROMISE scholarship program in West Virginia. Its primary focus is to expand the scholarship awards specifically for students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Under the proposed changes, eligible students will receive full coverage for tuition as well as room and board at state institutions of higher education, which serves to incentivize enrollment in critical fields that support the state's economic development goals.
Sentiment
The bill has garnered a positive response among educators and industry stakeholders who recognize the importance of STEM education for future economic growth. Supporters argue that providing comprehensive financial support to students in these disciplines is crucial for fostering a skilled workforce. However, there may be concerns regarding the allocation of funds and whether such enhancements to the PROMISE program could divert resources from other educational initiatives or disciplines.
Contention
As discussions around HB 2273 unfold, notable points of contention are likely to emerge, especially relating to equity in educational funding. Critics may voice concerns about focusing nearly all new funding on STEM, inadvertently neglecting other essential fields of study that contribute to the state's educational diversity and labor market. Furthermore, the proposal may prompt debates about the implications of requiring students to maintain certain academic performance levels while receiving scholarships, raising accessibility issues for at-risk populations.
Relating to revising, updating and streamlining the requirements governing the West Virginia Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholarship.
Increase access to and amount covered of the promise scholarship to ensure full ride regardless of tuition costs, double majors, or courses of interest
Increase access to and amount covered of the promise scholarship to ensure full ride regardless of tuition costs, double majors, or courses of interest
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.