Funding IssuesCommittee ReportEducational Attainment

Task ForceMarch 12, 2013

Committee Members•Co-Chairs: Margaret HenbestMike Rush•Members

–Bert Glandon-Jay Larsen–Russ Gee -Jerry Beck

•Staff–Allison McClintick–Kirk Dennis

Topic/Issues• Funding targeted towards workforce needs *• Improved scholarship opportunities *• Comprehensive community college system in

Idaho- revenue• Reform funding *• Increase the number of professional technical

schools in Idaho• Make funding of career and PTE facilities a

priority• Improved funding to support dual credit to

reduce student cost *• Get more industry representatives to the table

and make the initial industry investment *

Process for Setting Priorities

• Doable

• Timely

• Relevant for students, industry, and educational institutions

Recommendation #1Industry Sector WDTF grant program

Support a grant program to fund partnerships between industry sectors and academic institutions to prepare

workers for specific employment opportunities.

• Leverage Workforce Development Training Fund (WDTF)

• Incentivize Industry & Education Partnerships• Meet industry workforce pipeline needs• Creates continued education pathways• Connect students with high wage jobs

Recommendation #2Bench Mark Survey of Industry

CredentialsCreate a survey that will provide an

industry recognized credentials benchmark for the state

• Must know where we are now to get where we want to be

• Beneficial to monitor those who “go on” after their initial credential

• Bridge gap between Labor data and the “real world”

Recommendation # 3Credit Process for Prior Learning

Create a statewide portfolio approval process for awarding

credits based on prior learning and experience

• Rapid change in higher education (MOOC’s, streamlined degrees)

• To limit cost degree or certificate attainment must be quick, effective and efficient

• Active industry participation

FindingsDual Credit• Research shows that dual credit is very

important in the advancement of and the ability to retain students in school.

• Tuition for these students should not be affected by counties’ ability to pay tuitions.

Summary1. Create a new “Industry Sector” WDTF grant

2. Conduct a benchmark survey of industry recognized credentials

3. Create a statewide portfolio approval process for awarding credits based on prior learning/ experience