Free community college programs increase enrollment – and strain staff
Free tuition programs in two New England states have brought thousands of new students into community college classrooms.
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Free tuition programs in two New England states have brought thousands of new students into community college classrooms.
Massachusetts' MassReconnect program, offering free community college for those aged 25 and older, fuels an enrollment surge, straining institutions. Continue reading for more details.
The enrollment surge is a welcome development for the Massachusetts community college system, but it has also created staffing shortages and stretched capacity. A free community college program in Massachusetts for students aged 25 and older has led to a surge in enrollment at the state’s two-year institutions but has also put a significant strain on the system, particularly on the workload of financial aid and student support services staff.
Kristen Miller, currently the vice president of academic affairs at White Mountains Community College, will take over the role in February.
Kristen Miller will start her new job at Southern Maine Community College in February.