Student debt exceeds $1.4 trillion, but college could be free

Citrus Community College District Trustee Dr. Edward C. Ortell (left) celebrates the Citrus College Promise with Duarte Unified School District Board Member Reyna Diaz (right) during a signing ceremony on April 27.

By Dr. Edward C. Ortell, Citrus College Governing Board Member

High school seniors living in Citrus College's service area who are serious about earning an associate degree or career/technical certificate now have an opportunity to earn one at little or no cost.

This spring, Citrus College launched the Citrus College Promise, an innovative program that seeks to increase college access and promote college completion by covering the cost of enrollment and other mandatory college fees for the fall and spring semesters for first-time students who meet certain criteria. The first cohort of students will begin attending classes this fall.

Cost is a significant barrier for low-income and first generation students seeking the benefits of higher education. At the same time, student loan debt now exceeds $1.4 trillion in the U.S. These facts, along with the country's need for a skilled and educated workforce, has prompted community colleges throughout the state and nation to develop "promise programs," which typically cover tuition and some other costs associated with attending college.

The Citrus College Promise has several unique features when compared to other promise programs. Perhaps most significantly, the Citrus College Promise is a two-year program, while most other promise programs provide for only one year. The Citrus College Promise covers mandatory fees, such as registration, health services, student representation and student services fees. Students are also provided a transportation pass, and they have an opportunity to participate in a textbook loan program, which is available for a limited number of courses.

Two years of college at little or no cost could save families tens of thousands of dollars and prevent many students from signing up for loans that could take them decades to repay. It should be noted, however, that the Citrus College Promise is designed for serious students who are committed to earning a degree or certificate in two years.

Students attending in-district high schools must be part of the college's Early Decision program on their high school campus to be eligible. Students who live in the college's service area but attend private school or are home-schooled, must attend an Early Decision workshop. All students must participate in "I Will Complete College," a Citrus College program that provides wrap-around student support services.

To remain in the program, students need to meet certain criteria. For example, they must enroll full-time; declare a course of study or major before the end of the first year; and they must enroll consecutively in the required math and English courses. They must also earn a 2.0 GPA in the first year and a 2.5 GPA in year two.

Funding for the Citrus College Promise will come from a variety of sources, including the California College Promise Grant, the Citrus College Foundation, private donors and others.

For more information, about the Citrus College Promise, go to www.citruscollege.edu/promise.