CR's November 1, 2024 Times Standard Article – Propositions and Measures
Oct 29 2024The long build up to the election is just about over with November 5 only a few days away. As we approach Election Day, it is important to consider the many diverse ways California Community Colleges serve our communities.
I want to take the opportunity to talk about two propositions that would support community colleges across our state, including College of the Redwoods, both of which have been endorsed by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors. Proposition 2 would provide $1.5 billion to California’s community colleges for critical capital-intensive infrastructure projects and Proposition 4 would authorize $10 billion in general obligation bonds for environmental and climate projects in our communities. While broader in scope, Proposition 4 would build upon California’s climate resilience efforts, which include emergency preparedness, and workforce training in fields like renewable energy and sustainability. These investments would enhance College of the Redwoods' role in preparing students for the green economy and higher-paying career pathways.
At the local level, Measure I would directly benefit CR by funding critical facility upgrades, including modernizing classrooms, improving accessibility, and expanding spaces for programs that train students for high-demand careers in areas like healthcare and fire technology. If passed, Measure I will ensure that College of the Redwoods continues to serve as a vital educational and community resource, driving local workforce development and economic growth. Even if Proposition 2 does not pass statewide, Measure I would still allow CR to make essential improvements that benefit our local students and communities.
I believe that community colleges like College of the Redwoods are critical for the well-being of the State. We break down barriers for those looking to access a high-quality education while serving as vital engines of economic growth. We fuel local economies through workforce development and innovation. We go beyond our academic and economic contributions, increasingly serving as hubs for communities, especially when needed most during emergencies.
Community colleges are on the forefront of training the climate workforce and serve as centers of resiliency during times of crisis. We see that California faces frequent climate-related challenges, such as wildfires and extreme weather events. While CR has fortunately not yet had to, time and time again our sister community college campuses have met the moment by providing local communities with emergency response resources and, in some cases, shelter.
Community college dual enrollment programs boost student outcomes by enabling high school students to earn college credits, accelerating their path to degree completion or workforce entry. Together, these initiatives create multiple entry points for students to succeed, supporting a more dynamic and prepared workforce across California. According to a new study from the Community College Research Center, dual enrollment students are more likely to attend college immediately after high school and complete credentials at higher rates than their peers who don’t participate. This advantage is seen across various states, with dual enrollees completing bachelor's degrees at a higher rate and being more likely to return to community colleges to further their education. These programs not only create additional pathways for student success but also contribute to building a more skilled and prepared workforce, particularly in fields critical to California’s economy.
Along with training the next generation of the workforce, California Community Colleges contribute significantly to the state’s economy. Through operational spending, construction projects, student spending and alumni impact, the community college system generates an impressive $128.2 billion annually, reinforcing its position as an engine of growth across the State.
I encourage you to go to the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office website if you want to learn more about the state-wide initiatives underway to support California’s students, communities and economy. To learn more about our local Measure I, you can go to About Measure I | Vote Yes on I.
My hope is that the political polarization and misinformation promulgated by mainstream and social media over the past several months will diminish after the election. There are turbulent times ahead for our communities and our country. Measure I and Propositions 2 and 4 offer paths for our college to continue making meaningful impacts—by modernizing facilities, building climate resilience, and preparing students for rewarding careers in critical fields. Regardless of your politics it will take all of us moving forward together to face our challenges. College of the Redwoods is committed to doing all it can to repair the frayed connections that have held our community together through tough times. We see the value of openness and being able to disagree while keeping relationships between people intact and hope to ensure that education remains a powerful force for connection and growth in our region