Issue Position: Higher Education

Issue Position

Pennsylvania has a rich array of state, state-affiliated and private institutions of higher education that make us the envy of the nation. But they need to be more affordable and more accessible. In this global economy, a post-high school education is no longer optional; it is mandatory if you are to hold a living wage job.

As governor, Tony would focus efforts to modernize how state funds are disbursed to students, taking into consideration the reality of today's student -- someone who may be working, returning to school a few years after high school graduation, or in need of remedial or vocational coursework to put him or her on the path to success. That would mean examining how loan and other funding programs can be adjusted and expanded to accommodate these realities.

It also means leveraging state funds for Pennsylvania community colleges -- a key in providing low cost, high quality higher education opportunities to residents. Tony knows community colleges often are the most accessible educational institution to low-income working adults seeking to obtain new vocational skills. As governor, Tony will work to correct the fact that Pennsylvania lags far behind most other states in funding support for its community colleges and that in five Pennsylvania regions -- about 27 rural counties -- there is no easy access to a local community college.

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