LinkedIn Lori Przymusinski, vice chancellor for student services at Oakland Community College, northwest of Detroit, is excited about the program but is unsure if the influx of adult students will be enough to make up for enrollment losses. WCCs Reconnect Live Virtual Event You must be a high school graduate and a Advocating for action and publicly supporting Sixty by 30 in the media, with political leaders and amid your community. The program, which covers community . The program pays for in-district community college tuition for adults to pursue an associate degree or skills certificate. LANSING, Mich. - More than 40,000 Michigan residents have applied for community college tuition assistance since the program launched two weeks ago, according to officials. Michigan was no exception. It gives us economic stability in the state of Michigan and makes us a leader in workforce development and education.". More than 62,000 apply for tuition assistance through Michigan Reconnect New hope but not without risks, State of the State recap: Tax cuts, gun reforms, reactions and more, Gretchen Whitmer on guns: The time for only thoughts and prayers is over., Microgrants and how help can reduce barriers to college. The Michigan Reconnect program is a greatopportunity to pursue my dream now, said Bailey. This is a limited time offer. 70,000 MI Reconnect applicants set to receive tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate, surpassing state goal. Welcome Center. He isnt alone. To be establish initial eligibility for a Michigan Reconnect grant, an individual would have to meet all the following: -- Be at least 25 years old. "When you add in the 120,000 essential front-line workers who've applied for tuition-free . To qualify for Michigan Reconnect, you must be at least 25 years old when you apply, have lived in Michigan for a year or more, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelors). What to know, Michigan to receive $1.5B to extend internet to 210,000 in rural areas, College grads: We left Michigan for jobs. Enrollment for community colleges in the state fell by 13.2percent in fall 2020 from the previous fall. Michigan Reconnect Event - Jackson College Its really tough on the body, Young said. more per year in earnings with atwo-year degree, of Michigan jobs will require education beyond high school. Kalamazoo Valley Community College received almost 4,500 applications for Futures for Frontliners and about 2,500 applications through Michigan Reconnect. Michigans nonpartisan, nonprofit news source, Michigan Gov. Shamarri Key is bringing his childhood dream of becoming a chef to life with financial support from the Michigan Reconnect program. Theres a big appetite for this in the state of Michigan.. RECONNECT WITH MCC VIRTUALLY Proponents initially sought $60 million for the program. State officials in Michigan expected a big response when they launched a free college program for adults earlier this year. youll hear from: The session will include time for a Q&A and an opportunity to sign up for a You have /5 articles left.Sign up for a free account or log in. Futures for Frontliners offers essential workers an opportunity to complete high school or community college tuition-free. "It's a desperate need for skilled talent.". Michigan Reconnect is for residents who are 25 years or older and have obtained a high school diploma or equivalent. Oakland Community College was already in the process of developing such courses, Przymusinski said, but meeting that deadline may be a heavier lift for community colleges that havent started a remedial education reform process. Youngs reaction was, OK, it would be pretty dumb not to do this.. Gretchen Whitmeron Tuesday launched Michigan'slargest effort to date to pay for college tuition forresidents 25 or older who don't have a degree. As Young prepares to start his associate's degree program in the summer, he's seeing comments on Facebook disparaging the program, complaining about freeloaders. The rate inched even lower the following year. That absolutely is the impetus for the program. To be eligible for the Reconnect program, you must meet all of the following criteria: Select your student type below to see your next steps! For more information on the Michigan Reconnect program at Muskegon Community College, please contact Elizabeth Arangure-Martinez or Ashley Battle. Washtenaw Community College? The work also took a physical toll on him. In Michigan, were just not competitive in the region, Corbin said. New efforts are underway to expand ASAP, the City University of New York's academic support program, amid evide. Learn more about ways to pay for college, counseling, admissions, how to find success at MCC, and student life. She estimates that there are about 4.1million people age 25 and older in the state without a college degree. Michigan Reconnect | Kirtland Community College We hope that in the end well have money to support this, Hansen said. Currently,41% of Michigans working-age residents havean associate degree or additional higher education, ranking Michigan 31st nationally for the percentage of residents' who have attained higher education. If youre age 25 or older and dont already have a college degree, you could qualify for tuition-free access to pursue an associate degree or occupational certificate at Grand Rapids Community College. Explore the admissions process, campus services, and financial aid opportunities. We will post the Zoom link here as soon as it is available! Lawmakers approved the, This is not the first time leaders have tried to expand the Reconnect, September appropriations committee meeting. Monday, July 17, 6-8 p.m. Parkridge Community Center. RECONNECT WITH MCC FREE MAIN CAMPUS FAMILY PICNIC, 221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon MI 49442, 231-773-9131. We need partners across the state to come together to improve Michigan's future. Posted on Feb 12, 2021 by Kellogg Community College. I want to become an aviation technician and work on airplanes and the engines. 2023 The Detroit News, a Digital First Media Newspaper, Rep. Sarah Anthony, D-Lansing, added it's important to have goals to meet labor market demands but also to meet, anotherstate initiative to train workers. New, Current and Returning Students for Michigan Reconnect -Complete These Steps to Apply While the program may be a game changer for students, she worries about those starting or restarting community college careers online as the pandemic continues. Enroll in classes at WCC, earn 12 credits a year, and stay enrolled continuously through Only donate if we've informed you about important Michigan issues. The Michigan Reconnect program, which first launched last year, is currently open to adults over the age of 25 who want to return to school to earn their first associate degree or skilled. (LCC School Code: 002278) Applicant must have maintained continuous Michigan residency for at least the preceding year. GRCC student Jodi Holland was completely shocked to pick up her phone and hear Michigan Lt. Gov. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time! Michigan Reconnect will help pay the costs of tuition or training for eligible adults who want to pursue an associate degree or skills . Corbin, the labor department director, is confident the funding will continue. Find out what in-demand career is right for you, and what training and skills you need to get started. Copyright 2023 Inside Higher Ed All rights reserved. When you join the Sixty by 30 Alliance, you will receive our latest Sixty by 30 updates. * Last dollar means this award will only pay for eligible charges that are not covered by Pell Grant, Tuition Incentive Program (TIP), or any other tuition restricted awards. Michigan Reconnect is a program for Michigan citizens over age 25 who do not have a college degree. The state's Reconnect program is bandaging the wound to community colleges, said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, executive director of the Michigan College Access Network, an advocacy organization for higher education access in the state. MI-Reconnect at Henry Ford College | Henry Ford College Johnson, of the community college group, told Bridge that then-Rep. Thomas Albert, R-Lowell, then the chair of the appropriations committee, did not support the expansion of the program down to age 21. You can gain the skills youve always wanted and pursue the rewarding career you deserve. At her first State of State address in 2019, Whitmer proposed a goal of having 60 percent of working age adults with a post high school degree or certificate by 2030. Trusted, up-to-date local Detroit and Michigan-wide breaking news. Reconnect covers up to the 'in-district' tuition, mandatory fees, and contact hours at any of Michigan's public community colleges. graduation. Its never too late to take a step forward get started. Garlin Gilchrist II on the other end. "That's why we are so excited about Michigan Reconnect. Albert, who is now in the state Senate, did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday. Michigan Reconnect | Union High School - Dowagiac 4800 E. Huron River Drive Ann Arbor, MI 48105-4800 | You must be a high school graduate and a one-year Michigan resident over 25. "We needed to get our toe in the water and get this off the ground.". All rights reserved. People are getting an education and access to better jobs. Free In-District Tuition with the Michigan Reconnect It all starts with applying for Michigan Reconnect. Wednesday, July 26, 2023, 6:00 -7:00 PM. With your help, we can work together to develop locally owned, communitywide strategies that benefit your organization by creating a better-prepared workforce, a more vibrant local economy and a stronger talent pipeline for the future. The colleges have until Jan.1, 2022, to reform their developmental education courses. About 80% of Michigan students live in a community college district. All of Michigan's 31 public community colleges, including its tribal colleges, accept the Reconnect scholarship, but the cost of attending community college will depend on whether you are an in-district or out-of-district student. 70,000 MI Reconnect applicants set to receive tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate, surpassing state goal. Meet MCC faculty and staff as they show you the exciting, hands-on, high-tech programs available in downtown Muskegon. scholarship, who it is for, acceptance criteria, what it covers and other program Rep. Sarah Anthony, D-Lansing, added it's important to have goals to meet labor market demands but also to meet the needs of residents. Bring your family and join us for a fun and informative event. An education beyond high school opens the door to many new opportunities. More TRUE Stories about REAL Students: Adera, Sarah, and Ashley. Community colleges across the country underwent staggering enrollment drops this academic year, an 11.3percent decrease on average nationally this spring compared to spring 2020, according to the latest National Student Clearinghouse Research Center data. You'll find us on the first floor of Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall, 143 Bostwick Ave. NE. This is not the first time leaders have tried to expand the Reconnect program. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer. He finds that line of thinking silly., Everyone wins in this scenario, he said. Michigan Reconnect Scholarship -- Be a Michigan resident for the immediately preceding year. Community College scholarship will be required to pay the difference between the in-district and out-district Are you 25 or older and interested in free or discounted tuition at MCC? Bailey, who spoke during the press conference,said over the years he has worked jobs in the fast food, automotive manufacturing and carpentry industries and considered going to Lansing Community College. Michigan Reconnect covers tuition only; it does not cover any institutional or course fees. Learn more about our mission and accreditation. Sports coverage for locals, by locals: led by journalists Bob Wojnowski, John Niyo, Angelique Chengelis and Matt Charboneau. Reconnect is a scholarship program for Michiganders 25 or older, who don't have a college degree, to pursue an associate degree or skill certificate. This summer, Young, 36, will be a first-time college student, compliments of a state program designed for adults like him who've never attended or completed college. "I plan on enrolling in LCC and (beginning)the aviation program. Kellogg Community College announced today it has volunteered to serve as a Michigan Reconnect Champion in support of the state's new tuition-free degree program for eligible adults. Lets unleash opportunity for our young people while offering companies the skilled, hardworking talent they need to succeed here in Michigan., The program pays for in-district community college tuition for adults to, pursue an associate degree or skills certificate, At her first State of State address in 2019, Whitmer proposed a goal of having. Michigan Reconnect builds on another state initiative to train workers, a job skills hub and the Futures for Frontliners program, the first effort in the nation to offer free college education to . Over 113,000 Reconnectors have been accepted, and we want that number to grow, Whitmer said in her annual, in Lansing. This content is only available to subscribers. You can use the scholarship to complete an associate degree or a certificate program. Michigan Reconnect builds on anotherstate initiative to train workers, ajob skills hubandthe Futures for Frontlinersprogram, the first effort in the nation to offerfree college education to those who worked and provided essential services during the COVID-19 pandemic as otherssheltered in place and worked from home. Join our YouTube Live event at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18 where As I say, Im supportive of the concept but I also acknowledge that theres pieces to that beyond just the policy bills on the appropriations side, given the cost implications for that expansion, Frederick said at the time. We are ready to work with the Governor and the Legislature to expand the Michigan Reconnect program to younger adults and make progress toward the states goal of having 60 percent of Michigan adults with a credential or college degree by 2030.. This program will pay for in-district tuition, technology fees and contact hours not already Michigan community college administrators credit both the Michigan Reconnect program and its predecessor, Futures for Frontliners, which offers a tuition-free education in a degree program at a local community college to essential workers in the state who worked in grocery stores, restaurants, waste management, public transportation and other in-person jobs during the pandemic. Gretchen Whitmer speaks to the Legislature on Wednesday night during her annual State of the State address. one of the first to sign up for this exclusive opportunity. Learn how to get free in-district tuition at our Michigan Reconnect event on Wednesday, July 19. Learn more aboutprograms and services for adult learners here. Michiganians can submit applications atmichigan.gov/Reconnect. Over 113,000 Reconnectors have been accepted, and we want that number to grow, Whitmer said in her annual State of the State address in Lansing. PDF MICHIGAN RECONNECT PROGRAM S.B. 268 (S-4 - Michigan Legislature This is just one step ". Michigan Reconnect | Oakland Community College Registration is open for the Fall Semester! To be eligible for in-county rates, you must reside in Muskegon County. But Rep. Andrew Fink, R-Adams Township, criticized Whitmers call for expanding Reconnect in a statement, calling it unrealistic and reckless., Michigans Reconnect program was never intended to fulfill such heavy-handed promises, Fink, who sits on the House Appropriations committee, said Wednesday. There are a few basic requirements you must meet to be eligible for the Michigan Reconnect program - and your previous GPA and past course grades is not one of them. More than 24,000 people have enrolled in a program and there are more than 2,000 people who have completed a degree or skills certificate, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity told Bridge Michigan on Tuesday. Have lived in Michigan for a year or more, Have not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelor's). Gretchen Whitmer on Tuesday unveiled a program promising free community college tuition to residents 25 and older. Gov. Leading by example and implementing new practices to promote college degrees and certificates. Gretchen Whitmer said Michigan Reconnect students are on . MI Bridges allows you to apply for assistance programs and can help you to access more than 30,000 state and local services across Michigan. Cory Stout worked in the tool and die industry for several years, but moved into a construction job when he heard rumors of layoffs. Be An education beyond high school opens the door to many new opportunities. Here are their stories. The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. If youve been thinking about starting or returning to college, now is the right time, and GRCC is the right place. To receive the Reconnect scholarship, you must complete four steps: Apply online for Michigan Reconnect. 591 Armstrong Drive, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. This is your chance to take the next step toward a brighter future. Michigan Reconnect Event Wednesday, July 19 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Bert Walker Hall, Rooms 144 & 145 Meet with admissions, financial aid and advising to find out more about how you might be eligible for free tuition! Find out how these real-life Reconnectors are building a better future thanks to Michigan Reconnect. But not everyone isan essentialworkeror had a job that allowed themto work from home. (LEO) Michigan Reconnect program, [College name] will host a week of events starting July 17 as part of a statewide campaign to connect working-age adults with . "What unitesall of manufacturing is the need for talent," said Walsh. For in-district students. Maintain at least a 2.0 GPA in the courses taken towards your associate degree or Pell-eligible occupational certificate, Complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) annually. Gov. The, rate inched even lower the following year, Whitmer population council adds youth, lowers average age of members to 52, Juneteenth becomes an official state holiday in Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer creates new Michigan education agency for pre-K to college, Share the article you just read on Twitter, Share the article you just read on Facebook, Share the article you just read via email, Fatal crashes remain high in post-pandemic Michigan, risky driving blamed, Whos running for U.S. Senate in Michigan: Hill Harper joins Democratic primary, Michigans new hands-free driving law takes effect Friday. Gretchen Whitmer unveiled the Michigan Reconnect program in early February as part of a statewide effort . Apply to North Central. We can get you started in nearly any high-wage, high-demand career. Lets unleash opportunity for our young people while offering companies the skilled, hardworking talent they need to succeed here in Michigan.. WCCCD Michigan Reconnect - Wayne County Community College District A lot of these students have never taken an online class, so they dont know all the way how to navigate.. one-on-one session, in-person or via Zoom. "It can actually put folks on a path to prosperity and I am always of the belief that when folks have the tools and resources, people thrive. Hansen, the president of the community college association, said the widespread reform will be a great side effect or side benefit of the program. "It shows that there are a lot of different barriers for people to complete a postsecondary degree, but if you take some of those barriers away, people are eager and theyre ready and theyre hungry for this.". 221 S. Quarterline Road, Muskegon MI 49442, Are you 25 or older and interested in free or discounted tuition at MCC? Michigan has roughly 520,000 people who are 21-24 years old, according to U.S. Census data. Dean of Student Success - Support & Retention, Assistant Director of Adult Recruitment and Community Outreach, Teaching, Learning, and Distance Education. About 54.6 percent of the high school class of 2020 enrolled in college within six months of graduating, the lowest the state had experienced in at least a decade as the pandemic descended on the state. To qualify, students must meet the minimum age requirement, have lived in the state for a year or longer andhave a high school diploma but not a college degree. The program was announced in April, more than 120,000 residents applied by the December deadline and 82,000 were accepted into the program. Enrollment administrators at Kellogg project an enrollment increase this upcoming fall. More than 75% of all Michigan jobs will soon require at least some post-secondary education. Adult learners flood Michigan Reconnect program - Inside Higher Ed The Michigan Reconnect program, launched in February by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, allows state residents age 25 and older to attend local community colleges tuition-free, as long as they have a high school diploma or equivalent and didn't already graduate from college. Honestly, I barely graduated from high school, said Morgan Brink, now 32. With Advance YPSI, you can earn an Associate Degree or Professional Michigan Reconnect typically covers tuition and mandatory fees, however there are other fees that may not be covered. but do they help neediest students? - The Guardian Schedule anAdmissions Specialist appointment, Email:reconnect@grcc.eduPhone:(616) 234-3366Text:(616) 504-6178, 143 Bostwick Avenue NE If you're already a North Central student, this step is completed. He was ready for a long-term career change when his wife saw an online ad touting a program to enroll in community college for free. Leverage the scholarship dollars that may be available to you from the state of Michigans Higher Education News, Opinion and Careers | Weekdays, Quick Summary of the Week's Higher Ed News | Fridays, Admissions and Enrollment News, Opinion and Careers | Mondays, Diversity News, Opinion and Career Advice | Tuesdays, Student Success News, Ideas, Advice and Inspiration | Weekdays, When Merger or Consolidation Plans Dont Align, Online Learning Still in High Demand at Community Colleges, Scaling the Secret Sauce for Completion Rates, How to sustain a journal and beat the academic publishing racket, Recommendations for using design thinking in the classroom, Indigenous knowledge provides skills for lifelong learning that AI cannot, Setting scenarios for a university adapted to climate change. Nicole Reed, Reconnect Navigator from the State of Michigan, will discuss the Reconnect This might be a way to help get them through this pandemic.. This is a last dollar scholarship which means it covers cost after all other financial aid is applied. A strong state and a strong economy requires a concentration of talented people who are prepared to compete in a modern workforce and solve future challenges. And that being able to afford tuition may not be the only challenge you're facing. File your FAFSA and much more. Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) provides the connections, expertise and innovative solutions to drive continued business growth, build vibrant communities, create affordable housing, generate tourism and attract and retain key talent to fill Michigans vast pipeline of opportunities. Kellogg Community College is arranging an interventions strategies work group of administrators to prepare for the new students and ensure they understand the intricacies of the program and have the support services they need once enrolled. He cited national estimates from the Washington, D.C.-basedManufacturing Institute showing that while 3.5million jobs are expectedto become available in the country by 2027, two million could go unfilled because citizens are not employable. Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days. - Mark S. When youre looking at a 10percent cut in your student base, that can be existential for a school, he said. Michiganders like you are already using the Michigan Reconnect program to learn new skills, further their education, and advance their careers. "We know that in order for Michigan to move forward, and particularly now as we talk about the governor's COVID-19 recovery plan, it's more important than ever that our residents becomemore educated This really provides the opportunity to get them going on the path of an advanced degree or certificate.". Join us during Michigan Reconnect Week July 17 to learn more. It was meant to provide targeted scholarships only to adult learners returning to school to earn their first associate degree or skilled trades certification.. | Website designed by nclud. While the industry has spent billions of dollars investing in attracting and retaining talent, Walsh said it is not enough. Assoc. Formore information, including FAQs,visit michigan.gov/reconnect. Returning to school may be a big, difficult decision. Gov. For detailsvisitmichigan.gov/reconnect. 591 Armstrong Drive, Ypsilanti, MI 48197. -- Have a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer. Face painting, prizes, balloons, and other games for kids to enjoy! Lawmakers approved the Michigan Achievement Scholarship program in September and Gov. *Michigan Reconnect covers in-district community college tuition after other forms of aid have been applied. 54.6 percent of the high school class of 2020, enrolled in college within six months of graduating, the lowest the state had experienced in at least a decade as the pandemic descended on the state. Sen. Ken Horn, R-Frankenmuth, said during the press conference the goal of the program is to offer it to all 4.1 million residents who are eligible.