Washington Student Association calls for urgent reforms to tackle higher education affordability crisis

Washington's Senate Higher Education & Workforce Development Committee convened on December 13, 2024, to address pressing issues affecting students across the state. A key focus of the meeting was the urgent need for systemic changes to improve access to higher education and support for students facing financial and social challenges.

Fernanda Armas, chair of the Washington Student Association, highlighted the struggles of over 150,000 students, emphasizing that many face a daily battle for survival rather than a journey of academic growth. She pointed out alarming statistics: 11% of students reported skipping meals to afford textbooks, and nearly half experience housing insecurity. These challenges disproportionately affect students of color and first-generation college attendees, with Indigenous students facing a graduation rate of just 42%.

Armas called for immediate action to address these disparities, advocating for increased state funding for higher education, expanded mental health resources, and affordable housing initiatives. She stressed that the fight for educational equity is not just about policy but about the lives and futures of students who aspire to contribute to society as future professionals.

Jordan Verkaskill, a senior at the University of Puget Sound, shared his experiences with dual credit opportunities and the importance of transparency in higher education. He noted a projected shortfall of 600,000 skilled workers in Washington by 2032, underscoring the need for accessible post-secondary education to prepare students for the workforce. Verkaskill emphasized the necessity of practical experience and better guidance from educational institutions to ensure students are equipped for their careers.

The committee's discussions underscored a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. As the meeting concluded, members expressed a shared responsibility to protect and enhance investments in higher education, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive. The path forward involves collaboration among legislators, educators, and students to build a future where education is a right, not a privilege.