SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6534

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Reported by Senate Committee On:

Higher Education & Workforce Development, January 31, 2018

Brief Summary of Bill

Directs the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) to continue to expand the Graham Community College feasibility study for an additional two years.

Majority Report: Do pass and be referred to Committee on Ways & Means.

Signed by Senators Ranker, Chair; Palumbo, Vice Chair; Carlyle, Liias, Nelson and Short.

Background: In both fiscal year 2016 and 2017, the Legislature appropriated $150,000 for the state board to conduct a feasibility study for a potential new community and technical college in the Graham, Washington area. As a result of the first phase of the pilot program, Pierce College began offering evening courses for adult learners in partnership with the Bethel School District at Graham-Kapowsin High School. Courses included English 101, College 110—general studies, Communication Studies 220, Psychology 100, and English as a Second Language 1-4. Enrollment in the first year of the program was 132 students.

Summary of Bill: Directs SBCTC to continue the feasibility study for a new community or technical college within ten miles of Graham, Washington. SBCTC must continue to expand enrollment at Graham-Kapowsin High School and gather data about current and projected demand. The feasibility study must specifically address the intent of pursuing the establishment of a community college in the Graham area. SBCTC must report to the Legislature the results of the feasibility study by December 21, 2018.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: There are no colleges in the second legislative district which extends from Olympia to Mount Rainier. The first year of this pilot looked at the feasibility of delivering programs in the area. The second year started programs at Graham-Kapowsin high school in partnership with Pierce College. The students served include adult learners as well as running start students. The Bethel School district faces a transportation problem in accessing programs at Pierce College in Puyallup. There is no bus service and it is a 45-minute drive from the Graham area. These programs present an opportunity for adult learners to reengage in postsecondary education. The current pilot shows great merit and potential. Pierce College is continuing the partnership that was begun in 2016 with the Bethel School district within internal funds.