Legislature(2009 - 2010)CAPITOL 106
02/12/2010 08:00 AM House EDUCATION
| Audio | Topic |
|---|---|
| Start | |
| HB297 | |
| Adjourn |
* first hearing in first committee of referral
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
+ teleconferenced
= bill was previously heard/scheduled
| += | HB 297 | TELECONFERENCED | |
| + | TELECONFERENCED | ||
| += | HB 206 | TELECONFERENCED | |
HB 297-POSTSECONDARY SCHOLARSHIPS
8:04:57 AM
CHAIR SEATON announced that the first order of business would be
HOUSE BILL NO. 297 "An Act establishing the governor's
performance scholarship program and relating to the program;
establishing the governor's performance scholarship fund and
relating to the fund; relating to student records; making
conforming amendments; and providing for an effective date."
8:08:16 AM
LARRY LEDOUX, Commissioner, Department of Education and Early
Development (EED), began with Section 1, which indicates that a
school district shall determine whether a student who graduates
from a local high school is eligible for a Governor's
Performance Scholarship (GPS) award. Student transcripts will
reflect whether the criteria have been met and for what level,
or tier, of the GPS they are eligible.
8:09:31 AM
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER asked how the American College Testing
(ACT) and Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT) scores are reported.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said the results are usually provided
directly to the school and become part of a student's
transcript. In this case the student would specifically
authorize a high school to receive the scores.
8:10:14 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX continued with Section 2, which grants
Department of Education and Early Development (EED) the
authority to act on the GPS program. Section 3 defines the
role, as fiscal agent, of the Commission on Postsecondary
Education.
8:10:55 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON noted that funding for an education
specialist is indicated for the inception year, and asked how it
will be handled in subsequent years.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX explained that the funded position will
assist with the public hearings, and other tasks, required for
establishing the lengthy regulations that will govern the GPS.
8:11:42 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON asked why the fiscal note does not
indicate it as a permanent position.
EDDY JEANS, Director, School Finance and Facilities Section,
Department of Education and Early Development (EED),
acknowledged that the fiscal note will require amending.
8:12:33 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX turned to Section 4, and read [original
punctuation provided]:
The governor's performance scholarship program is
established to provide scholarship opportunities for
Alaska resident high school graduates to attend a
qualified postsecondary institution in the state. The
program includes a merit-based academic scholarship
and a merit-based career and technical school
scholarship. The merit-based academic scholarship
consists of three levels of awards. The merit-based
career and technical school scholarship consists of
one level of award.
8:13:20 AM
CHAIR SEATON referred to page 3, line 15, and about eligibility
for home school students.
8:14:07 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX verified that the intent is to provide every
graduate in the state the opportunity to receive a GPS,
including home school students. He pointed out that many home
school students are affiliated with their local high school, and
others may be in enrolled in an independently accredited program
that provides a graduation diploma.
8:14:56 AM
CHAIR SEATON said this section will be flagged, and requested
EED to clarify participation allowances/restrictions.
MR. JEANS reiterated that it is the intent of the department
that the program be available to every high school graduate, and
is not limited to public school attendees. The term "public"
was intentionally omitted, and the regulatory process will
provide how students outside of the public school system will be
addressed. He opined that attempting to include those
provisions in the statute could prove to be cumbersome.
CHAIR SEATON maintained that the committee will need to have a
clear framework for what is to be accomplished through the
statute. The section should delineate whether a GED (General
Education Development) certificate would be included, and list
the qualifying parameters.
8:17:37 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON noted that Section 4 establishes
guidelines and asked if this section also addresses grade point
averages (GPAs).
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said yes.
8:18:08 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX continued with Section 4, subsection (b),
paraphrasing the language, which read as follows [original
punctuation provided]:
The Department of Education and Early Development
shall design the programmatic standards for the
scholarships and appeals of adverse decisions. The
Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education shall
administer the daily operations of the program and
financing of the program, including the procedures for
applying for the scholarships, establishing standards
for and ensuring continuing compliance with
programmatic standards, and requiring students to
apply for other non-loan financial aid, consistent
with federal law. The respective agencies shall adopt
necessary regulations under AS 44.62 after
consultation with each other. The department may
change the regulations under AS 44.62 for requirements
for programmatic standards for required academic
achievement for eligibility only by giving advanced
public notice at least one school year before the
change.
CHAIR SEATON stated his understanding that, prior to a student
receiving a GPS award, an applicant must first exhaust grant
options and federal resource possibilities.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX concurred, and indicated that the state will
be the final resource.
8:19:44 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX turned attention to subsections (c) and (d)
[page 2, line 10] and read [original punctuation provided]:
(c) For purposes of this program, a student is an
Alaska resident if the student meets the eligibility
for residency as described in AS 01.10.055. (d) The
program shall be administered to further the following
goals: (1) increasing high school graduation rates in
the state; (2) improving academic performance of
students in grades kindergarten through 12 in the
state; (3) improving preparedness of Alaska students
for postsecondary education; (4) improving the quality
of the educational programs offered by high schools
in the state; (5) increasing the scores of high school
students in the state on college entrance
examinations; (6) increasing job training
opportunities in the state; (7) improving the
postsecondary academic achievement and graduation
rates of students in the state; (8) expanding the pool
of high school students in the state who pursue
postsecondary opportunities.
8:20:39 AM
CHAIR SEATON returned to subsection (b) and asked what the
programmatic standards being designed include.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX responded that the programmatic standards
will be established by the standardized test scores. As it is
currently written, it also could include the actual GPA. He
stressed that it is the intent of the department to follow the
governor's guidelines provided in the proposal.
MR. JEANS added that programmatic standards will also list the
courses that qualify for meeting the requirements. A menu of
elective options for math, science, English, and social studies
classes will be developed
8:22:22 AM
CHAIR SEATON asked whether seat time, that is Carnegie units,
will be required to complete classes, or will students be able
to challenge classes, particularly if they are using distance
learning.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said every school district is responsible
for determining whether a student has achieved course
requirements. Part of the programmatic standards discussion
will be how to translate standards based scores. School boards
will devise a methodology to accomplish this, probably modeling
algorithms that are often used by colleges. One of the goals of
this program is to prepare students for college, and course
standards will not be waived.
8:24:44 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ theorized that a student may receive an A
GPA, but score average on a standardized test, and asked what
happens to that graduate.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX pointed out that all three criteria must be
met: curriculum requirements, qualifying GPA, and an adequate
standardized test score. In further response, he said if
someone has an A GPA and tests at a C level, they will receive a
scholarship level based on the "C+".
8:26:07 AM
CHAIR SEATON directed attention to the committee packet and the
page stamped SAMPLE, with column headings for curriculum, GPA,
and assessment scores, updated by EED in February 2010, and
asked if it illustrates programmatic standards.
MR. JEANS responded yes.
8:26:28 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ requested an analysis of the scoring matrix
for SAT/ACT scores, and how they compare to requirements of
schools across the nation. She opined that the scores indicated
on the sample page appear high.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX offered that the sample sheet does not
reflect reality, they are basically random numbers.
8:27:50 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON held up the sample page, and suggested
changing the language of the form, which, she opined, may be
discouraging to students. A student may have an A GPA, but
still choose to follow a career and technical track. The
language could be read as insinuating and insulting.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX agreed to revise the form, stating that it
is not the intent to project the wrong message.
8:29:06 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON asked whether the secondary role of this
program is to direct students to Alaskan institutions of higher
learning.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said yes, with the expectation that students
who achieve their postsecondary education in Alaska will remain
as residents.
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON said language of that intent appears to be
missing from Section 4 (d). Commissioner LeDoux concurred, and
an agreement was made to work on an amendment to rectify the
situation.
8:30:25 AM
CHAIR SEATON returned to the topic of programmatic standards,
and said it would be helpful to have further information on how
this will be accomplished via means other than the traditional
method of Carnegie units. The non-traditional students do not
appear to be included.
8:32:20 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON reported that many schools are
currently graduating students who require remediation when they
enter a higher institution. She stated her understanding that
one intention of this bill is to eliminate the need for remedial
classes. Noting that regulations will be crafted for the
schools, she asked whether the legislature will have a means to
ensure that districts are not passing students who cannot
satisfied competency requirements.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX stressed the importance of including the
requirements for rigor. Expectations will not be lowered, and
the intent is to graduate students who can enter college
appropriately. He offered a personal anecdote to illustrate his
point.
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON maintained her concern, and expressed
dismay that the current regulations have not prevented this
phenomena; passing a class is not assurance of competency.
8:36:53 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX reviewed the purpose of the standardized
test score. The ACT is a proven predictor of first year college
performance, and grades are the predictor for graduation.
8:38:11 AM
CHAIR SEATON reported that the graduation work group has
discussed the importance for teachers to have a common
understanding of what a grade represents. Students are very
discouraged when there is no standardization of grades from
classroom to classroom. He predicted that school reforms will
bring this forward, as communities prepare for the GPS.
8:39:50 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX returned to Section 4, page 4, line 17 and
read [original punctuation provided]:
Qualifications of applicants. (a) A student may
submit an application for a governor's performance
scholarship to attend a qualified postsecondary
institution in the state if the student (1) has
applied or intends to apply for admission to the
institution; (2) is an Alaska resident who has (A)
graduated, or will graduate no later than six months
after the date of the application from a high school
in the state, including a public school, private
school, and home school; (B) graduated, or will
graduate no later than six months after the date of
the application from a high school outside of the
state under circumstances allowed by the department;
for purposes of this subparagraph, allowable
circumstances include an Alaska resident high school
student having left the state because of the military
service of the student's Alaska resident custodial
parent; (3) will receive and utilize the scholarship
at a qualified postsecondary institution in the state
no later than six years after the beginning of the
first school year after a student's graduation from
high school, unless the applicant qualifies for an
extension of time allowed by the department; for
purposes of this paragraph, standards for extension of
time must include time while the student is in
military service; and (4) meets other minimum
qualifications to apply or continue to be eligible for
a governor's performance scholarship.
8:41:24 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON inquired how short term military
transfers will be addressed.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX replied that the intent is to view residency
as residency, regardless of transfer status.
CHAIR SEATON suggested including a definition of resident.
8:43:01 AM
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER directed attention to page 4, line 1,
which refers to AS 01.10.055, and at the direction of the chair,
she read the cited statute [original punctuation provided]:
(a) A person establishes residency in the state by
being physically present in the state with the intent
to remain in the state indefinitely and to make a home
in the state.
(b) A person demonstrates the intent required under
(a) of this section
(1) by maintaining a principal place of abode in
the state for at least 30 days or for a longer period
if a longer period is required by law or regulation;
and
(2) by providing other proof of intent as may be
required by law or regulation, which may include proof
that the person is not claiming residency outside the
state or obtaining benefits under a claim of residency
outside the state.
(c) A person who establishes residency in the state
remains a resident during an absence from the state
unless during the absence the person establishes or
claims residency in another state.
8:44:33 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON noted that if the PFD data base is used
there may be a conflict.
8:45:05 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX explained that a student who resides in
Alaska for 30 days, and graduates from a program of choice,
would be eligible. However, the law provides the minimum
framework, and indicates that this can be modified through
regulation.
8:45:34 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON affirmed the inference that the PFD data
base would not be utilized for establishing residency.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX concurred.
8:45:54 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON provided a scenario of a student
relocating to Alaska for the final 30 days of high school. She
pondered whether this would satisfy the residency and graduation
requirements.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX answered yes, and pointed out that the state
board of education can modify the law should this become an
issue.
CHAIR SEATON theorized that a student may graduate from a home
school program Outside, transfer to Alaska and satisfy the ACT
and other requirements, and qualify for the GPS. The program is
being designed to be flexible, which is important, however, the
parameters must be clear to disallow possible abuse.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX opined that it would be uncommon for either
the of the aforementioned scenarios to occur, however he offered
to convene with the Assistant Attorney General to assure that
appropriate preventative language is included.
8:49:56 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ returned to the residency requirements, and
suggested that the University of Alaska (UA) policy could
provide a model.
8:50:26 AM
CHAIR SEATON requested an analysis for how this is going to
interact with the university system, private universities, or
other certificated programs in Alaska, i.e. Alaska Vocational
Technical Center (AVTEC) and the resident programs.
8:50:54 AM
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER interjected that when a student is
enrolled, whose parents are not a resident, tuition is required
to be paid to the enrolling district. She returned to the
question of military families, and described a scenario of a
child who is on track to receive a GPS award, but the family
transfers out-of-state in the last semester of school. Another
possibility is that of a child who graduates, receives an award,
and the family transfers. In that case, she surmised the
student would remain in the state and attend school, and asked
what the military exemption would be for children under either
of these situations.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX agreed to provide a written response.
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER opined that graduation within the state
should be a firm, unqualified requirement, without exemption.
CHAIR SEATON underscored the need to clarify the intent of the
graduation aspect. Additionally, he asked whether the extension
of time applies to qualifying for, or utilization of, an award.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX directed attention to paragraph (3) [page 4,
line 31], and the language that allows a six year extension for
a qualified student who defers for military service.
8:54:31 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON inquired what the anticipated number of
awards will be, based on an initial $400 million investment that
will garner approximately $20 million in annual earnings, to be
distributed in $3,000 increments.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX testified that a model exists based on the
Hathaway program in Wyoming. The model indicates that roughly
6,000 students are expected to be funded, depending on the
categories awarded; the spreadsheet will be provided to the
committee.
8:56:28 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON questioned whether the entire $20 million
will be awarded each year, and suggested extending the
opportunity to students who have been out of the system for six
months or a year.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX pointed out that a qualified student could
attend school out-of-state to attain a four year degree, without
losing their eligibility, and return to Alaska for graduate
studies.
8:57:59 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX turned to page 5, line 7, and read the
disqualifiers [original punctuation provided]:
(b) A student is not qualified to receive a governor's
performance scholarship if the person (1) has not
complied with the military service registration
imposed under 50 U.S.C. App. 453 (Military Selective
Service Act), if those requirements were applicable to
the student; (2) is currently in default or owes a
refund on a federal financial aid loan under the
federal guaranteed student loan program or financial
aid awarded under this chapter; or (3) has been
convicted of a felony in the state or another
jurisdiction and has not qualified for a waiver under
standards adopted by the department.
8:58:55 AM
CHAIR SEATON stated his understanding that a qualified student
would not be required to be enrolled as a full time student at a
post secondary program, to retain their eligibility for six
years.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX concurred and said that a student has six
years of eligibility, and within that six years are eight
semesters of funded scholarship. A qualified student could
remain out of state for five years, without educational pursuit,
and still have a year to return to Alaska and utilize the award.
CHAIR SEATON reported that data indicates a higher percentage of
college graduation by those who attend college directly
following high school graduation. A break in educational
continuity appears to have negative consequences for attaining a
degree.
9:00:33 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON directed attention to page 5, line 10,
and asked whether the Military Selective Service Act cited
refers to a dishonorable discharge.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX responded that it means a student has
neglected the federal requirement to register for the draft.
CHAIR SEATON suggested registration may be a gender specific
requirement.
9:01:15 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX continued on page 5, line 17, with proposed
AS 14.43.820, regarding eligibility for an academic scholarship.
The core curriculum and GPA is established in this section. He
stressed that the GPA requirements are based on a rigorous
course of study. In response to Chair Seaton, he provided the
GPA standards: A = 3.5 GPA or above, B= 3.0-3.49, C= 2.5-3.0.
9:03:24 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ asked whether the UA requires SAT/ACT
scores.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX responded affirmatively, however, no minimum
score is required. He offered to provide a copy of the
CHAIR SEATON interjected that the ACCUPLACER is another
assessment used in the UA system, and asked if requirements vary
by campus.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX indicated that the law stipulates an SAT,
ACT, or an exam approved by the university, which could include
ACCUPLACER.
9:04:16 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ inquired how, without minimum requirements
from the UA, the criteria will be established comparable to
other universities.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX explained that the State Board of Education
will set the standards. It will be important to approach this
with caution, he said, due to the misuse of standardized
assessments, and cultural biases that may exist in tests. The
board can change regulation more expeditiously than changing
law; hence it is prudent to not include score requirements in
statute. He underscored that the GPS focuses on rigor, and
preparation for success in college, or vocational training.
Care will be taken to not create barriers with assessment
requirements that are not entirely germane for Alaska.
9:06:25 AM
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER queried about the department's confidence
level that implementing this program will provide a fair
opportunity for every student to receive the rigorous classes
necessary to qualify.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX replied that it should not be assumed that
due to a student's locale they will not have the opportunity to
receive the education they deserve. Young people around the
state dream of attending college, and the resources exist to
provide the possibility. Every community provides a different
challenge or opportunity, and, he opined, with distance
resources, and flexibility, the courses can be delivered. It is
a challenge for the students and the districts alike.
9:09:41 AM
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER agreed that every child should be
provided a path to achieve their dreams, and stressed the
importance of planting the seed for a student who otherwise
would not consider attending college a possibility. However,
she maintained her concern to query further about the
availability for every student to take the required classes.
She asked will it be possible for every student in the Bush to
take four years of math, for instance.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX stated his belief that this will be
possible, particularly via the state's distance program.
Schools that only provide two years of math today, are being
challenged by the department to step up to the plate.
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER maintained concern that some communities
may not be equipped to take advantage of what the state has to
offer.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX pointed out that this is a reform bill,
which will affect change for communities across the state.
There are students in urban Alaska who are not being challenged,
and this program is an invitation for every child in the state
to achieve. To a follow-up question he said that students are
not required to take standardized tests in regional hubs, as
they are proctored exams, which every school is capable
administering.
9:12:52 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX turned to page 6, line 3, to continue with
the programmatic standards of eligibility requirements: (4)
enrollment in a course study at a qualified university or
college in this state that is intended to result in the award of
a certificate or degree; and (5) a process through which a
student who is no longer eligible can regain eligibility. He
stated that a student will be expected to maintain a certain GPA
to retain their GPS award, however, if a student has a lapse in
their GPA, they can regain status and recoup their award.
CHAIR SEATON asked for the criteria that results in loss of
eligibility.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said that it will be provided to the
committee. The intent is to use the standards established by
the UA Honor's program.
9:14:40 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX continuing with Section 4, page 6, line 7,
he read [original punctuation provided]:
(6) a process through which a home-schooled or
private-schooled student may submit evidence to the
qualified university or college that establishes the
equivalent of the high school diploma, grade-point
average, and core academic curriculum for public
school students.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX noted that further information will be
provided to the committee regarding this paragraph.
9:15:05 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX addressed the next proposed statute titled
"Eligibility for a career and technical school scholarship." He
pointed out that the class requirements, and format, are the
same as the academic track, however, course options may vary.
The department does not intend to require every student to take
calculus, for example, but four years of math will be required.
9:15:49 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON suggested that small schools may only
employ one math teacher, and asked whether it is plausible to
expect one teacher to provide four years of math.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX concurred that it may be difficult for one
teacher to provide a broad spectrum of learning, in any field;
however, through distance learning alternatives, it should be
possible
9:16:47 AM
CHAIR SEATON returned to page 6, line 7, to revisit paragraph
(6). He asked whether the stipulated requirement for an
equivalent of a high school diploma will include a GED
certificate. The UA system administers GED testing and
distributes these certificates to a number of students. He
expressed concern that a dichotomy exists between the university
standards and the GPS requirements.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said the analysis will be provided to the
committee, and that it is not the intent of this bill to use a
GED certificate as a pathway for attaining a GPS award.
9:18:45 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON read from paragraph (6), page 6, line 8:
"qualified university or college that establishes the equivalent
of [the] high school diploma ...", and asked whether the term
"college" includes merit based career and technical
scholarships.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX stipulated that section 4 only addresses
academic scholarships to be awarded for attendance to a college
or university.
9:19:22 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON asked about the definition of "equivalent
of a high school diploma," surmising that it is defined
elsewhere, which precludes the necessity to include it in this
section.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said that is correct.
CHAIR SEATON interjected that the definition will be included in
the requested analysis. Additionally, he asked for an
extrapolation of the projected numbers if consideration were
given to the total GED certificates issued each year by the
university.
9:21:14 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX reiterated that the programmatic standards
for eligibility are identical for the career and technical
school scholarships as has been stated for the academic track.
He pointed out that the career and technical schools will be
certified by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development
(DLWD), in dialogue with EED.
9:22:09 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON suggested that the career and technical
school qualifications appear to be overtly rigorous, from a
practical standpoint, for someone pursuing a career as a
mechanic or beautician.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said that students generally complete math
in their first two years of high school, and as a
graduate/college entrant, find these skills dulled. Technical
math courses will be developed that will include applied math,
as not all fourth year math students are expected to take
calculus. Math and science is important, he stressed, and
reading technical information calls for this type of rigor.
9:24:57 AM
CHAIR SEATON asked what the difference in award would be for a
student with a 3.5 GPA; what differentiates the academic versus
career and technical awards.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX explained that a career and technical
scholarship provides one level of award: up to $3,000 for two
years. The Silver, Gold, and Platinum awards are intended for
students expecting to enroll at a university or accredited
college, where as the career technical scholarships are for use
at a DOLWD approved training institute. A student could
certainly qualify for the highest award level, but choose to
attend a technical institute.
9:27:13 AM
CHAIR SEATON observed there is a matrix for the two paths that
may be chosen, and he clarified that a student qualified for a
Gold level academic scholarship may choose to apply it to a
vocational training institution.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said absolutely.
9:28:04 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ pointed out the disparity of cost involved
to earn a four year degree attending a university versus a
technical school, and questioned the fairness.
CHAIR SEATON requested a written response from the department.
9:29:21 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX continued on page 7, line 4, "Maximum awards
and allowable uses." and read [original punctuation provided]:
(1) for the merit-based academic scholarship, three
tiers of scholarship financing awards; the highest
tier of award per semester must be equal to the cost
of approved tuition at the University of Alaska in
school year 2010 through 2011 for a student taking 15
credits, and require very high academic achievement;
the second tier must be 75 percent of the highest tier
and require high academic achievement; the third tier
must be 50 percent of the highest tier and require
moderate academic achievement; (2) for the merit-based
career and technical scholarship, the award must be
the actual cost of the qualified career and technical
school attended by the student, not to exceed $3,000
per school year;
9:30:06 AM
CHAIR SEATON asked if the all tiers have a 15 credit
requirement.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said yes.
9:31:12 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON inquired why the rates are tied to
specific tuition rates, 2010-2011, given the probability for
fluctuation.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX stated that the intent was to ensure that
the cost of the program, or draw on the account, is not based on
a Board of Regents decision.
CHAIR SEATON indicated that the requirement for 15 credits will
be repositioned in the section to provide clarity that it
applies to all tiers.
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER reported that she did not read this as a
requirement for a student to carry 15 credits, but as a means
for determining the cost of tuition for 15 credits. Previous
hearings have revealed that, in systems where the universities
can independently raise tuition, a scholarship that is not
pegged to a certain amount of money has the unintended
consequence of encouraging universities to dramatically increase
their tuition.
CHAIR SEATON noted the difference and indicated that, using the
15 credit reference for that purpose, there is not a minimum
credit requirement contained in the section, although there is
mention of a part-time student.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX explained that the university charges by
credit hours. A student taking a minimum of 12 credit hours is
considered full-time. A cap was placed at 15 credit, for the
purposes of this scholarship. He pointed out that many Bachelor
of Arts degrees require 130 credit hours, leaving a 10 credit
gap, if a student takes 15 credit hours for 4 years.
9:34:34 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON called attention to page 7, lines 13-
15, and said it appears unfair to not exceed the $3,000 per year
for the career and technical awards, when the academic
scholarships have varying tiers, and some vocational
institutions have tuitions rivaling universities.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX reminded the committee that a spreadsheet
will be prepared, as previously requested
9:35:14 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX began again with page 7, line 19, and read:
"(b) A part-time student who receives a merit-based academic
scholarship and is enrolled on at least a half-time basis is
eligible for an award on a pro rata basis." He said this will
allow students to attend school on a part-time basis and
maintain their award status.
CHAIR SEATON requested the definition of a part-time student.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX indicated that the definition will be
provided, stating that anything under 12 credits is usually the
standard.
9:36:18 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX returning to page 7, line 25, read [original
punctuation provided]:
(d) Subject to AS 14.43.815(a)(3), a student receiving
a merit-based academic scholarship may remain eligible
for up to eight semesters of enrollment at a qualified
university or college, which may include graduate
courses. A student receiving a merit-based career and
technical scholarship may remain eligible for two
calendar years of attendance at a qualified career and
technical school. A student may not receive both an
academic and a career and technical scholarship.
9:36:49 AM
CHAIR SEATON returned to page 7, line 19, and asked what defines
part-time.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said the information will be provided to the
committee.
9:37:43 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ addressed page 7, line 8, and suggested the
dates established, UA tuition for 2010-2011, may need to be
amended, assuming the program moves forward.
CHAIR SEATON reminded the committee that the idea is to set a
dollar amount, because there are incentives for institutions to
abuse what could be considered a windfall from the state, which
has happened in at least one other state. He agreed that
consideration of a dollar amount, to be inserted instead, would
not be out of order.
9:39:26 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX went on to page 8, line 4, "Programmatic
standards." He read [original punctuation provided]:
(a) Subject to (b) of this section, the department
shall establish programmatic standards for the
program. (b) The department shall establish a make-up
procedure or alternative pathway for students who are
not eligible for a scholarship to make up a deficit by
alternative means if the deficit was caused by
circumstances that would make it unfair not to allow
the student to make up the deficit. The department
may not waive a requirement and shall require the
student to achieve a result comparable to that
required of other students. The decision of the
department regarding a student's eligibility for
alternative means is final. In determining
circumstances in which the student may pursue
alternative means, the department shall consider the
fairness to students who have met the requirements and
the need to promote the goals of the program.
Attendance at a high school outside of the state is
not a circumstance in which fairness requires that a
student be allowed to pursue alternative means to
qualify for a scholarship. Circumstances in which the
department may allow a student to pursue alternative
means to qualify for a scholarship include the
following: (1) the required curriculum was not
reasonably available to the student because the
student attended a small and remote high school in the
state;(2) the deficit was caused by rare and unusual
circumstances outside the control of the student.
9:41:18 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX stated his belief that alternative pathways
will be necessary for certain students. Thus, a student can
apply to the office of the commissioner for a waiver to receive
an independent plan for fulfilling the requirements, and
enabling them to take advantage of the program. He stressed the
need to provide this flexibility for students, and the means for
the department to respond. He pointed out that paragraph (2)
[page 8, line 21] is a catch-all clause, because it is
impossible to predict circumstances.
9:44:40 AM
REPRESENTATIVE GARDNER remembered discussion around the
possibility for a student to retake an SAT, ACT, or other
qualifying exam, at their expense, if they felt they had an off
day and could do better. She asked if language was included to
allow for that circumstance, or would it come under paragraph
(2) with additional language.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX opined that it is covered in the language of
paragraph (2), as are any number of unforeseeable circumstances.
The clause is to provide an opportunity for full consideration
and a level of fairness, he said.
9:46:19 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON agreed that flexibility is a key piece to
making the concept of this program work in all areas of the
state. He questioned the wisdom of the broad language, versus
providing specific stipulations.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX cautioned that specific language could
preclude some circumstances. The language is broad to allow for
any scenario, while still being required to meet the standards
required. An individual's path may be different than what is
envisioned for the majority of students, but the goal remains
the same.
CHAIR SEATON recognized that the committee can indicate specific
language, if deemed appropriate.
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON concurred that the language must not be
hindering, however, establishing a system in the framework of
the bill may be helpful. He theorized that if 100 students a
year were applying to the commissioner's office for a waiver, it
could prove problematic, and perhaps it would be better handled
through a designated panel.
9:48:55 AM
CHAIR SEATON asked if whether paragraph (2), includes special
education circumstances. He noted that this could cause a
number of waiver request.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX indicated that the responsibilities required
under special education law will be provided to the committee.
9:50:50 AM
REPRESENTATIVE BUCH recalled the commissioner's previous
statement to "probably create a board," and he suggested the
department submit a design that would illustrate his statement.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX agreed, and said that the comments of
Representative Edgmon are well taken. Specifics will be added
and brought back to the committee.
9:51:32 AM
REPRESENTATIVE MUNOZ inquired whether alternative pathway
concepts will be brought as options to students early in their
high school career, possibly ninth grade, or does it only apply
to post graduation.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX explained that the regulations to support
the program may require five year plans for students. It will
be important to begin early to invite, and educate, children and
their families about attaining a GPS award. The alternative
pathway is not intended to allow less rigor, but rather to
recognize that one path does not fit everyone's situation.
9:54:36 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX moved to page 8, line 23, and read [original
punctuation provided]:
(a) The following institutions are qualified
postsecondary institutions: (1) a university or
college physically located in the state that is (A)
authorized to operate in the state under AS 14.48.020,
or exempt from authorization under AS 14.48.030(b)(1);
and (B) accredited by a regional accreditation
association;
9:55:11 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON said, "On lines 26 and 27 it says
authorized to operate in the state under this statute, ... but
then it says exempt from authorization," and asked to what that
would apply.
9:55:24 AM
CHAIR SEATON directed the department to provide that information
to the committee. He said another question is the language
[page 8, line 25] which stipulates "physically located in the
state." An on-line virtual school, located outside of Alaska
would not qualify, he surmised.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said that is correct.
9:56:06 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX, continuing on pages 8 and 9, line 29-31 and
1-16 respectively, read paragraph (2) and paraphrased from
subsection (b), which read [original punctuation provided]:
(2) a career and technical school program physically
located in the state that has been included on a list
of certified career and technical school programs
received from the Department of Labor and Workforce
Development; the commission shall publish the list on
or before September 1 of the year preceding
enrollment.(b) The Department of Labor and Workforce
Development shall, in consultation with the Department
of Education and Early Development, adopt regulations
under AS 44.62 establishing criteria under which the
Department of Labor and Workforce Development shall
certify career and technical school programs in the
state as eligible to participate in the career and
technical school scholarship program. The criteria to
be considered under this subsection include the
following: (1) the quality of the job-training program
offered by the career and technical school; (2) the
employability of a graduate of the program, including
whether the program results in a certificate or
license that is recognized by the industry for which
the training prepares the student; (3) whether jobs in
the industry for which the training prepares the
student are available or expected to be available in
the future in the state; (4) other criteria
established by the Department of Labor and Workforce
Development in regulation.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX underscored that the intent is for EED and
DLWD to work together and ensure that qualifying schools deliver
what the state, and students, expect.
9:56:54 AM
REPRESENTATIVE BUCH queried what form that partnership will
take; an MOU (memo of understanding) perhaps.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX understands that this requirement is
stipulated in statute, negating then need for an MOU.
CHAIR SEATON clarified that this establishes a statutory
requirement for consultation between the two departments on
development of the criteria. He asked whether apprentice
programs are included or eliminated.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX said an apprenticeship will not be
eliminated if it is an approved program. He conceded that the
question has not previously been posed, and offered to bring
further information to the committee on how apprenticeships will
be handled and whether the term "school program" is appropriate
for paragraph (2).
9:59:52 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX referred to page 9, line 17 (c) and read
[original punctuation provided]:
(c) A postsecondary institution is physically located
in the state if the campus, teachers, classrooms,
school administrators, and equipment used to provide
the education to the students are physically present
in the state. Use of virtual, electronic, or online
materials by teachers in the state does not disqualify
a postsecondary institution even if the materials are
generated outside the state. However, a
correspondence, virtual, electronic, or online program
that is administered from outside the state is not
physically located in the state even if the program is
delivered by teachers or equipment in the state.
10:00:30 AM
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX continued to Sec. 14.43.840 [page 9, line
25], stating that this deals with the application of the award
and the role of the [postsecondary] commission. He specifically
noted the language in subsection (b), which reads:
Payment of a scholarship is subject to appropriation.
If insufficient funds are appropriated to pay all
eligible scholarships, the commission shall pay
existing awards on a pro rata basis.
10:01:03 AM
REPRESENTATIVE EDGMON indicated that this is an important,
sleeper provision of the bill.
COMMISSIONER LEDOUX agreed, and said the contract allows for six
years of eligibility, and that must be kept in mind when
appropriating funds.
10:01:52 AM
REPRESENTATIVE P. WILSON concurred that this will be a promise
made to students who are working hard to qualify, and it would
be devastating to not provide funding.
CHAIR SEATON said if anyone has a different means to address
this, an amendment would be welcomed. He then stated that HB
297 would be held for further consideration.
| Document Name | Date/Time | Subjects |
|---|---|---|
| HB 297 GPS Materials.pdf |
HEDC 2/3/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/12/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/1/2010 8:00:00 AM |
HB 297 |
| GPS Powerpoint.pdf |
HEDC 2/3/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/12/2010 8:00:00 AM |
HB 297 |
| HB 206 Version P February 4, 2010.pdf |
HEDC 2/5/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/10/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/12/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/19/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/1/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/8/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/17/2010 8:00:00 AM |
HB 206 |
| HB 206 version P Sponsor Statement February 4, 2010.docx |
HEDC 2/5/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/10/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/12/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 2/19/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/1/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/8/2010 8:00:00 AM HEDC 3/17/2010 8:00:00 AM |
HB 206 |
| AKWIN training slides inContext1-2010.ppt |
HEDC 2/12/2010 8:00:00 AM |
HB 206 |
| 22 Taylor plan programs an analysis.doc |
HEDC 2/12/2010 8:00:00 AM |
HB 297 |