Program had allowed students the opportunity to obtain two year degree in a variety of trades tuition free; aimed at striking down barriers between aspiring students and skills needed to pursue meaningful careers. Affects training of future teachers, nurses, firefighters, accountants, mechanics and more.
The Yavapai Community College leadership announced at the April District Governing Board meeting that it was discontinuing its financial support for the “Workforce Promise” program. The program, announced with great fanfare in June 2022, was designed to provide county students, of any age, the chance to earn a two-year degree in a variety of trades, tuition-free.
In its 2022 press release describing the program, the College said:
“Future teachers, nurses, firefighters, accountants, mechanics and more can find the breakthrough they have been looking for in the Workforce Promise, which reimburses students for their tuition expenses if they complete their degree program within seven semesters.”
“The Workforce Promise is yet another way Yavapai College makes education accessible and affordable for the residents of Yavapai County.” College President Dr. Lisa Rhine explained. “This program is open to students of all ages. It can help students achieve their degrees debt-free in career and technical education fields that are in high demand with living wage job opportunities in our region.”
The short clip below contains the Community College’s notice to the Board regarding discontinuing this program. It is noteworthy that no Board members asked any questions about the decision.