The High Cost of Lower Education in Connecticut

Connecticut’s Education leaders gathered together on Wednesday to discuss possible solutions to an issue that has plagued them for years. How to get students college ready?

An estimated 3 out of 4 of Connecticut’s 2010/2011 graduating class are not ready for higher education. In addition, state college costs have jumped by 8.5%. These two statistics have combined to make for a very dismal outlook for the 92% of Connecticut’s high school graduate’s that go onto college. Fewer than half of incoming college freshman will graduate within 6 years.

Reacting to the poor preparation of applicants, Connecticut State Universities are going to raise admissions standards. The new standards are expected to take effect in 2015 to allow high schools to adjust. Four years of math will be required, instead of three, and three years of science, instead of two. Applicants also will be required to have completed an English composition course.

It speaks to the fact that standards should have been raised a long time ago. It also reiterates the message that these schools, which are often understaffed and underfunded, will be stretched even further in order to prepare students for the future. Connecticut’s economy depends on a well-educated work force. The state still has an advantage, but it is in danger of slowly slipping away.

While a number of Federal Grants and Federal relief measures may help families save hundreds of dollars each month, it may not cover the cost of trying to fix Connecticut’s failing system.

What would you suggest to the educators that are wrestling with such a widespread problem?

Also, should the focus be on immediate for the 2011/2012 graduates or on earlier support so that those graduating in the 2014/2015 school year are prepared for the higher standards that are going to be required of them?