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Marin County, CA November 8, 2011 Election
Smart Voter

Student Needs

By Stephanie O'Brien

Candidate for Board Member; Marin Community College District

This information is provided by the candidate
  • Transfer Students The impact of the financial crisis is being felt across the county and continues to put a squeeze on Marin's families and students. The state budget crisis has placed even our state college and university system out of reach for many. College of Marin provides a less expensive alternative for families wishing to save on college tuition and fees. Enrolling at COM for freshman and sophomore years helps save on the overall cost of college. Students seeking to transfer after 2 years MUST have assurances that their lower division units completed at COM will be fully credited by the 4 year institution of their choice. Portable lower division units translates into faster completion of degree programs and savings for students and their families. I will ensure that COM high quality academic programs meet the needs of 4 year colleges and universities.

  • Affordable Education I will also work to make certain that ALL students who wish to attend College of Marin can do so and that the fees and tuition are affordable. I will seek partnerships with the public and private sector to ensure students get the financial aid or assistance they need to to continue their education.

High quality rigorous classes, that are recognized by 4 year institutions, is our most important education goal. Keeping class sizes small is one way to insure a quality classroom experience. I will work to maintain and exceed these standards.

  • Certification Programs COM offers certifications programs for students wishing to enter the workforce with credentials that will be accepted by employers. COM must provide these students with the relevant skills and technical knowledge that will make them competitive in the labor market. I intend to make sure our educational offering and its delivery are in close alignment with the job marketplace and the needs of regional employers.

  • Job Retraining and Skills Training The unemployed, under-employed and employed seeking new job skills expect the College of Marin to provide meaningful training classes and programs. I will work to make certain that our offering remains relevant and that we compete effectively for students with other community college districts. When new technology or technical expertise are required I will work to make sure that our programs include them.

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ca/mrn Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 12, 2011 09:46
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