Capitol Report for April 2nd, 2008

Working to Improve Higher Education
The sunny days and beautiful spring weather serve to remind us that high school seniors across Missouri are entering their final months of classes. As they prepare to exit Missouri’s secondary educational system, the next chapter in their lives awaits them. Whether they will immediately enter the work force or seek post secondary education through a vocational school, a community college, or a university, it is important that they prepare to enter a changing economy.
Missouri’s higher education system plays a critical role in our state’s economy. The degrees, courses, and programs offered through higher education institutions improve our workforce, bolster our economic opportunities, and allow us to compete in an ever-changing world. It is often stated that a small investment in education is like planting a seed that will grow food for a lifetime. Over the last four years, we have worked to improve access to higher education in Missouri. As a result, we now have nearly $100 million dollars in needs based scholarships available to Missouri students, which has resulted in over 36,000 students receiving tuition assistance.
I believe strongly that our institutions of higher education should build academic programs that will help meet the needs in our economy and our communities. For example, this year, we are debating a proposal, which would bolster enrollment, and funding for healthcare education programs, thereby producing more graduates to meet our growing healthcare needs.
I have always believed that a strong educational foundation is the key to future success. Just as the state has made a commitment to improving elementary and secondary education, it is imperative that we remain committed to improving higher education opportunities. I believe that a quality higher education system is key to ensuring that our communities will be able to adjust to the demands of a changing economy while ensuring success for future generations.
As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 429, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.