Statement Regarding State Budget

“We understand the immense challenge our legislature is facing to meet the many needs of the people. As the committee members stated, today’s budget is just a step in the process and not in any way final. We implore our state leaders to coalesce on a solution that recognizes the critical importance of talent development for the future of our great state. Already operating with the lowest resources per student in the nation, additional cuts will put our state further behind. Any reduction to the TOPS promise is unconscionable and will severely damage students’ confidence in our state. Graduating high school seniors who should enjoy a season of accomplishment will instead feel anxious, and continuing TOPS students who have demonstrated success in college will feel betrayed as the resources they were promised to attain a college degree hang in the balance.”

Dr. Jim B Henderson
President/CEO