CVCC copes with less money, more students

Our Voice

By: Hickory Daily Record Editorial | Hickory Daily Record
Published: August 14, 2009

The record enrollment at Catawba Valley Community College shows the value students place on an education at CVCC, and it underscores the realization that education is vital to land a good job.

Many students are trying to start second careers because their former jobs no longer exist.

CVCC President Garrett Hinshaw was candid about the influx of students in an interview with the Record for today's front-page report.

Cuts in the state budget impede the college's ability to serve all students at CVCC's customary high standards.

He promises the college will do everything in its power to accommodate the increased student body. There is no doubt that the task is daunting.

The state doles out money to community colleges based on last year's enrollment. This year, the state calculated the sum using last year's enrollment figures, then cut the total by 11 percent. CVCC has 600 more students than last year.

It was a foregone conclusion that budget reductions would play havoc on public education's ability to deliver services without diminishing quality.

Some school systems are able to hire more teachers for primary and secondary grades because their budget cuts weren't as severe as anticipated. The situation for community colleges didn't change much because of the formula used for funding.

Less money, more students and the delay in getting the state budget ratified presents problems at a time when the competition for jobs — and thus the need for education — is extreme.

We are confident that CVCC will meet students' needs. We are not satisfied that the mission should be so difficult.

Good quote, sensible response

From U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC, 10th District), in response to a report he says does not accurately characterize his position on the citizenship of President Obama:

""As I stated last night, I have not carefully reviewed the evidence as a jurist would. However, from what I have read, I have absolutely no reason to question President Obama's citizenship. I anticipate that as a legal matter the courts will continue to come to the same conclusion."

Thank you, Mr. Congressman. Well said.