URGENT UPDATE: Colorado is making a significant investment in higher education for rural students with a groundbreaking grant package totaling $5.6 million. Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) just announced this initiative, aimed at expanding work-based learning opportunities across the state.
The funds come primarily from a generous commitment of $5.5 million by Ascendium Education Group, with an additional $100,000 contributed by the Strada Education Foundation. This timely investment is designed to tackle educational inequality and enhance practical learning experiences for students in remote areas.
Under House Bill 25-1186, the initiative seeks to establish a consortium dedicated to scaling work-based learning programs. These efforts aim to eliminate financial barriers by utilizing state work-study resources to support credit-earning internships and similar opportunities for students.
Dr. Angie Paccione, CDHE’s executive director, emphasized the pressing needs of Colorado’s rural communities, stating they face “unique challenges, including limited access to educational resources, economic opportunities, and support services.” The funding will address these disparities and strengthen the connection between education and market-ready skills.
This bipartisan legislative effort is crucial for students in remote locales, who often experience persistent inequities in education. The CDHE’s Office of Educational Equity, Workforce and Social Mobility will manage the grants, focusing on recognizing institutions that serve high numbers of first-generation college students. Additionally, the initiative advocates for comprehensive mental health frameworks and career-connected campuses.
As these developments unfold, the focus will be on implementing effective strategies that enhance educational support in rural areas. The urgency of this investment cannot be overstated, as it aims to transform the educational landscape in Colorado, ensuring all students have equitable access to quality learning opportunities.
Stay tuned for more updates on this vital initiative that promises to reshape the future of education in Colorado’s rural communities.
