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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

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Edit: Helping Community Colleges

Bridges to better tomorrows are best built by community colleges. Particularly in Idaho -- land of low wages and, not coincidentally, one of the nation's worst rates of high school graduates going on to improve themselves through education and training - community colleges are key to success. The community college option is widely available, flexible and affordable. Unlike many four-year programs, a two-year degree or certificate can instantly pay dividends, with a raise at an existing job or an immediate opportunity for a better one. That's why we're concerned that the Idaho Legislature does not appear eager to provide sufficient funding for the three community colleges to meet the demands of today's high school graduates and other low-wage earners striving to improve themselves and their value in the workforce. Earlier this week, a presentation to the Legislature's funding arm elicited few signs of support/Coeur d'Alene Press Editorial Board. More here.

Question: Is it more important for the Idaho Legislature to increase funding for state four-year colleges or community colleges.



D.F. Oliveria
D.F. (Dave) Oliveria joined The Spokesman-Review in 1984. He currently is a columnist and compiles the Huckleberries Online blog and writes about North Idaho in his Huckleberries column.

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