High school students were allowed to enroll in higher-education programs on the state’s dime until a rule imposed by the State Board of Education in 2001 ended the practice, state officials said Wednesday.
Today, the board is expected to consider repealing that rule – or seeking a more narrow interpretation of it – that would allow the Sheridan and Denver public school districts to continue programs that allow students to earn a high school diploma and an associate’s degree at the same time.
In a packed meeting before the state board Wednesday, officials from both districts urged support for the programs, saying the opportunity to attend college has given disadvantaged students hope, improved their school environments and produced productive citizens.
But board members wrangled over how the state could continue to fund such a program if hundreds of high school students decide to take advantage of it.
The board is expected to meet at 11 a.m. today at 201 E. Colfax Ave., in Denver.
