Notes in the Margins: Pells, college boards and saving vo-tech education

Trying to save vocational education Many American adolescents don’t want to go to college. They reject as boring and aggravating the Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and other college-level courses offered to them in high school. Yet, they need reading, writing, math and time-management skills for good jobs or trade school slots when they graduate. How can they be persuaded to acquire them? (The Washington Post)

College boards turn to business-style approaches The governing boards of colleges and universities are increasingly demanding that their presidents perform more like corporate chief executives, much to the chagrin of academics who say treating colleges as businesses doesn't fit the mission of higher education. Experts say the recent moves largely have been spurred by federal and state funding cuts. (Associated Press via University Business)

Cut college tuition by getting 4-year degree in 3 years Spurred by concern about college debt, some colleges are encouraging students to save by shortening the time it takes to earn a degree. (USA Today)

How Civic Engagement Can Save Higher Education Comprehensive and demanding civic engagement programs will help colleges and universities find new relevance, and communities regain economic footing and social rebirth in the midst of this crisis and a new kind of partnership is created between town and gown. (The Huffington Post via University Business)

Nearly unnoticed law to bring Pell Grant changes July 1 will spell the end of federally funded Pell Grants for thousands of college students who don’t meet new requirements when the provisions of a quiet December appropriations law take effect. (McClatchy-Tribune News Service via NAICU)

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