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download .pdf of Higher Education Platform
Overview: The opportunities for a quality higher education in the United States have been the envy of and model for the world. Michigan, with its excellent public universities and community colleges, has played a major role in helping to establishing that reputation. Michigan has traditionally supported world-class research facilities; provided students with innovative, effective instruction and measurable learning; served the needs of Michigan's workforce and employers in an increasingly technical and global economy; advanced the arts and cultural life of Michigan communities and residents; and prepared Michigan citizens to participate in the civic discourse and decisions of our times. Michigan's higher education institutions collectively award over 140,000 degrees and certificates each year. This is a wide and daunting array of responsibilities, but with respect to higher education, Michigan's citizens expect and deserve no less. We should rise to the challenges presented by Lieutenant Governor John Cherry's Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth. The first goal of the Cherry Commission was to outline a plan to double the percentage of residents who attain post-secondary degrees or other credentials that link them to success in Michigan's new economy. However, Michigan's traditional support for higher education has waned. The lack of sufficient State funding has not only impacted university and college programs but has also resulted in significant tuition increases that limit access to higher education. Our State's disinvestment in funding public community colleges and universities has undermined Michigan's ability to diversify its economy. Postsecondary education is the key to economic success. To address the higher education needs and expectations of Michigan's citizens, AFT Michigan urges consideration of the following principles and measures:
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