GIA Education Report: 8/6/24

Welcome to the GIA Education Report. With the latest in Southern California education news, I’m Alyssa Silva. 

The US Department of Education announced that colleges cannot submit corrections to students’ financial aid records in bulk this year, potentially leaving some students unable to pay their bills as classes begin. This follows processing errors and delays with the new FAFSA launch, which has already hindered millions from receiving timely aid offers. Colleges, waiting months to send batches of corrected records, now face additional challenges in providing necessary financial support to students. 

In other news, Crafton Hills College has launched a 2.3-megawatt solar farm with battery storage to enhance energy efficiency and reliability. Funded by Measure CC, the project features ground-mounted solar panels and a Tesla Megapack system to store excess energy for peak demand times. This initiative will help the college achieve net zero energy, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and save $550,000 in the first year, totaling $10.5 million over 25 years, with savings directly benefiting students. 

Middle College High School, located in San Bernardino has been awarded the 2024 Exemplary Dual Enrollment Award by the California Department of Education for its commitment to quality education and student success. Partnering with San Bernardino Valley College and San Bernardino City Unified School District, Middle College High School offers students the chance to earn college credit while in high school. This innovative program supports many first-generation college students, helping them graduate with a high school diploma and college credentials.  

Norco College’s Music Industry Studies program is set to host its Battle of the Bands competition on November 9, 2024. Local bands can showcase their talent and compete for significant prizes. Bands must submit their entries, including contact info, social media links, and recordings by September 1, 2024. Finalists will be notified by mid-October and perform live at the Norco College Amphitheater. Visit norcomusic.com for more details. 

The University of California admitted a record 93,920 California resident first-year students for the upcoming fall term. UC also increased admissions for community college transfers and low-income students, with Latino students being the largest demographic group among first-year admits. While actual enrollment numbers will be available in January, UC President Michael Drake stated that these admissions reflect the university’s commitment to expanding opportunity and access, positively impacting communities across California. 

California’s Universal School Meals program offers free breakfast and lunch to all students, but challenges like stigma and transportation persist. The Hunger Hero Awards honor school employees dedicated to combating child hunger. This year’s honorees include Irma Mondragon, who boosted breakfast participation at Bing Wong Elementary, and Kathleen Delgado, Barton Elementary’s dance teacher who ensures timely breakfast delivery. Also recognized are Glen Woods, San Bernardino City Unified School District’s Nutrition Services Supervisor, and Nailly Salib from Fontana Unified, for their exceptional contributions to student nutrition and well-being. 

And that’s this week’s GIA Education Report, I’m Alyssa Silva.