Recommendations To Increase the Postsecondary Education Opportunities for Residents of Superior California. Commission Report.

Overview & Synopsis

The 2001-2002 school year state budget in California contained a provision requesting the state's Postsecondary Education Commission to conduct a study of the higher education needs of Superior California, the northern most inland region of the state. This report provides the context for the study of the region's higher education needs and provides information on the Superior California region. It identifies current barriers that exist in providing postsecondary education opportunities in the region and highlights options that could be implemented to expand education opportunities available in Superior California. The report also offers a series of policy recommendations for increasing the postsecondary education opportunities available to residents of Superior California. While it is not possible for the state to provide urban service levels in rural environments, and while the demands on state finances are considerable, the Commission believes that there are a number of initiatives that can be undertaken that will enhance postsecondary education service levels in Superior California. Recommendations center on the provision of an educational center, cooperative baccalaureates, and flexibility to allow residents to attend institutions in other areas. Six appendixes contain supplemental information. (SLD)