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In the News...
 February 1, 2006

Community Colleges Recognized In Governors Budget Proposal

LEESBURG - Feb. 1, 2002 - Governor Jeb Bush and Lt. Governor Toni Jennings unveiled their 2006-2007 budget recommendations today (Feb. 1) to fund Floridas public education system at record levels. Recognized as playing a critical role in helping students reach their career goals, Florida community college programs will receive $1.7 billion in funding, a 58.3 percent increase since 1998-1999. To help community colleges support increased enrollments, an additional $338.7 million for capital outlay and $19 million in facility challenge grants were recommended. This budget ensures that more students will be able to earn their associate degrees, as well as increase the number of students transferring to state universities.

Lake-Sumter Community College President Dr. Charles Mojock responded to todays announcement by saying, Governor Bushs budget represents an historic financial commitment to Floridas community colleges. The $119.1 million in new dollars would be the largest increase to date. Dr. Mojock, who also chairs the Community College Council of Presidents Policy and Advocacy Committee added, The budget recommendations would provide for a real gain in per-student funding, allowing community colleges to build capacity to meet the demands of the growing numbers of high school graduates, as well as provide more opportunities for adults to return to the community colleges for career education or to prepare for advanced degrees. These graduates will fulfill the needs of local employers for nurses, information technology workers, skilled trades, public safety and educators, therefore benefiting entire communities.

Under the Governors budget, community colleges would receive:

• $119.1 million increase (an increase of 8 percent)

  • $78 million Operating increase

  • $3.8 million Operating cost of new facilities

  • $14.4 million Retirement rate adjustment

  • $22.2 million Tuition and fees (Student fees are based on current year enrollment with 5% fee increase)

• Targeted baccalaureate degrees $9.2 million (a $1.2 million increase over the current year)

• Challenge Grants $38 million to fund Dr. Philip Benjamin Matching Grants and $19 million to fund Facilities Matching Grants

The nearly $33 billion in budget recommendations will ensure that Floridas public education system has the resources it needs for our students to achieve academic success, said Florida Education Commissioner John L. Winn. "By increasing the opportunity for students to attend college, we make a wise investment in todays learners and tomorrows workforce.

For more information on the Governor's budget recommendations visit www.myflorida.com.