Scammers have stolen more than $10 million in federal financial aid from California’s community colleges in the last 12 months — more than double what they stole in the prior year.
Adam Echelman / CalMatters
Posted inEducation
California’s fund to build student housing runs dry — leaving community colleges in the lurch
Feather River College is still reeling from the 2021 Dixie fire, which destroyed hundreds of homes in the surrounding community and warped the housing market. The college is one of many California schools that have tried — and failed — to secure state grants to build more student housing.
Posted inEducation
California wants to give degrees based on skills — not grades. It’s dividing this college
California’s community colleges are experimenting with a new model, known as competency-based education, but at Madera Community College, it’s created a divide between faculty and college administrators.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
California got millions to train workers in disaster relief, but it’s leaving money on table
When disaster strikes, California gets federal funding to hire temporary workers to clean debris. But the jobs are tough, and some agencies struggle to manage the grants.
Posted inEducation
Conservative professors and students are suing California’s community colleges, and winning
In numerous lawsuits, conservative professors and students allege that California’s community colleges are hindering their right to free speech under the First Amendment.
Posted inEducation
Raw sewage and bursting pipes: Why California community colleges are asking voters for repairs
This November, California voters will decide on Proposition 2, a $10 billion education bond. Some community colleges are counting on the money to fix critical buildings and protect the safety of students.
Posted inEducation
Only 1 in 5 California community college students makes it to a university, audit says
Community colleges are designed to help students get an associate degree and transfer to a four-year university. Most community college students never graduate or transfer, a state audit found.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Taxpayers cover tuition at California’s for-profit schools. The results? Low-wage, high-turnover jobs
California officials have warned for years that for-profit schools can make misleading career claims — leaving students with “a mountain of debt” but no job. Still, many for-profit schools remain on the state’s list of recommended job training programs.
Posted inEducation
Faculty diversity: Why do California community colleges struggle?
“Progress remains slow,” according to a recent report on faculty diversity at California’s community colleges. For Nikia Chaney, the sole full-time Black faculty member at Cabrillo College, the experience is personal.
Posted inEducation
Who is a first-generation college student? California colleges, universities can’t agree.
Many California colleges and universities define “first-generation college student” differently, creating a confusing situation for students to navigate.