Staff Reports
Pennsylvania policymakers recently met with college leaders to discuss the high cost of education and the need for accountability in higher education. Republican Representative Josh Kail highlighted the importance of accountability, stating that colleges need to address the perception problem and lack of accountability attached to student debt. House Republicans are eager to find solutions beyond simply throwing money at the situation. They want to ensure that students are prepared for a successful future and are able to enter the workforce without crippling debt.
Quintin Bullock, president of the Community College of Allegheny County, expressed the importance of working closely with businesses and industry to align programs with the needs of the community. He highlighted the success of their nursing program and its contribution to the healthcare workforce.
Chancellor Daniel Greenstein of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education emphasized that the focus of a college greatly impacts costs. He noted that a music program is more expensive than a social science program. Additionally, the size of an institution can determine its ability to achieve efficiencies. Greenstein also raised the question of what the desired outcomes of a college education should be and how much money should be spent per job at the other end.
Legislators stressed the need for transparency in how taxpayer money is spent by colleges. Greenstein agreed, but did not directly address whether state-related universities should be held to the same transparency standards. Funding for state-related universities has been a contentious issue, with the institutions seeking more state support without agreeing to a tuition freeze.
Overall, the discussion highlighted the need for colleges to prioritize accountability, align programs with workforce needs, and be transparent in their use of taxpayer funds. These priorities reflect the conservative belief in responsible spending and ensuring that students receive a quality education that prepares them for future success.
