Tuesday, February 27, is Missouri Community College Advocacy Day. On that day, eighteen Missouri community colleges will come together to rally at the state capital.
Students will go to Jefferson City, MO, and sit face-to-face with the people who make decisions regarding issues such as financial aid. Advocacy Day gives students a chance to meet with legislators, representatives, and the like in order to discuss their tuition woes.
Many college students struggle through college and get bogged down in student loans due to the fact that funding is being cut. "There is a piece of legislation up before Congress that states that if an A+ student drops a class, they will be charged," explained Mindy Johnson, Coordinator of Campus Life and Leadership at Penn Valley and rally organizer.
"However, there is no follow-up on who will be responsible for reimbursing the state, the school or the student, and no follow-up on who will charge the student. Since the inception of A+ they have added schools, but not duly increased funding. So, through the years, benefits that used to be covered have been dropped, such as books," Johnson continued.
Whether your grants are in danger of being cut or you're just not getting enough to live by, showing up and lending your voice is a must. "Our participation will allow legislators to put a name and a face on the human impact of our college," said Johnson.
Johnson went on to explain, "Over the past five years, legislative support for higher education and community colleges has eroded. It's easier for our legislators to vote 'no' on community college legislation when they don't know who we are. We want to change that."
Students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to attend; teachers will even excuse absences for the day. "Sending a large delegation from MCC - Penn Valley is important. We've had the largest MCC delegation the past two years and we want to continue our strong showing," said Johnson.
Transportation and lunch will be provided. To register for the event, drop by CC 001.
Copyright 2007 Metropolitan Community College