This House resolution recognizes April as "Community College Month." It celebrates more than 1,000 community colleges in the United States and summarizes their history, reach, and role. The text notes the first public community college opened in 1901 (Joliet Junior College) and that the term "community college" was popularized in 1947. It states there are 1,024 community colleges (924 public, 36 Tribal, 64 independent) serving about 10,500,000 credit and noncredit students. The resolution cites recent enrollment growth (about 4 percent), average in-district tuition and fees of $4,050, an average student age of 27, and that community colleges serve many working students, low-income students, parents, veterans, and first-generation college students. It says community colleges support workforce development in fields such as semiconductors, construction, and nursing; that 49 percent of recent bachelor’s degree completers had enrolled previously at a two-year public institution; that the median distance to a community college is 10 miles; and that 82 percent of public high schools offer dual enrollment tied to local community colleges. The resolution also cites economic figures: community college alumni added $898,500,000,000 in income in fiscal year 2020 (about 4.1 percent of GDP) and that each dollar of public funding for community colleges returns $6.80 in tax revenue. The resolution is a formal recognition meant to highlight the value of community colleges and their contributions to education and the economy.
The resolution is a symbolic recognition. It encourages observing and celebrating community colleges in April and may raise public awareness of their services, including local workforce training and dual-enrollment opportunities. It does not itself create programs, change tuition, or provide funding.
No publicly available information. The text of the resolution is a recognition and does not authorize spending or establish new federal programs.
Supporters say community colleges expand access to higher education, provide affordable options for many students, serve local workforce needs, and contribute to the national economy and community vitality. The resolution presents these points to justify recognizing April as Community College Month.
No publicly available information.