In the fall, the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) launched a new project exploring innovative state strategies for community college funding and dual enrollment. This initiative explores two states, Texas and California, that are prioritizing dual enrollment and pathways learning as part of their funding models.

The initiative builds upon ACCT’s existing work analyzing nationwide funding strategies for community colleges. The new project will focus specifically on Texas’s new community college funding formula and California’s dual-enrollment initiatives. Both state policies have garnered nationwide attention for their efforts to establish robust pathways from high school to higher education and into the workforce.

ACCT will first introduce this work to the field at the Community College National Legislative Summit to be convened February 9 - 12 in Washington, D.C. Members are encouraged to visit the ACCT Center for Policy and Practice to receive more information, share feedback, and learn how to get involved.

The project aims to raise awareness among state policymakers, community college leaders, and key stakeholders about the critical role of dual enrollment and innovative funding mechanisms. As the project progresses through 2025, there will be targeted dissemination activities including presentations, blog posts, and webinars. This project will culminate with a half-day summit in October 2025 during the ACCT Leadership Congress in New Orleans, LA.

Carrie Warick-Smith is Vice President, Public Policy at ACCT