Oregon education subcommittee hears community colleges’ budget request and program updates

The Education Subcommittee opened an informational hearing on Senate Bill 5525 on April 22 where community college representatives described local workforce programs and pressed for state funding to sustain current services.

John Wyckoff, deputy director of the Oregon Community College Association, told the committee that “community colleges work for communities,” describing colleges as “providing accessible and local education, community education, and a gathering place for the community.” Wyckoff reviewed career and technical education (CTE) programs, corrections education, apprenticeship pathways and newly authorized applied baccalaureate programs, and closed with a budget request he said would maintain current services.

Why it matters: Community colleges train large numbers of part‑time and working students in nursing, trades, early learning and behavioral health, and they operate programs inside correctional facilities. College leaders said state funding shortfalls limit wraparound student supports even as enrollment returns.

Wyckoff said the…