MA Dept of Higher Ed: strengthening campus response to sexual assault

MA Dept of Higher Ed (@MassDHE) tweeted Fri, Aug 20, 2021:

"As students return to campus, MA has a new law on the books to strengthen campus response to sexual assault. Details in the new DHE Forward: https://t.co/Hkp01vY9me "

Shared from Twitter: https://twitter.com/MassDHE/status/1428780159465836549?s=03

As students return to campus, MA has a new law on the books to strengthen campus response to sexual assault

In the News: COVID-19 expenses an issue for higher ed; White House spreader event still be examined

 From the Milford Daily News, an article of interest for Franklin:

"The COVID-19 pandemic has presented colleges and universities with financial challenges that will likely extend for multiple years and may not be sustainable for all institutions, heads of public and private universities told state lawmakers Tuesday.

“We don’t view this as a one-year deal,” University of Massachusetts President Marty Meehan told the Higher Education Committee. “We view this as a two- to three- to four-year deal, and I will say Madam Chairman, there are universities and colleges in New England who won’t survive this. What we’re trying to do at UMass is make sure at the end of this crisis that we still have five UMass campuses that are all nationally ranked and that are successful.”

The committee, chaired by Sen. Anne Gobi and Rep. Jeff Roy, heard virtual testimony from state education officials, the Massachusetts Teachers Association, and heads of community colleges and private and public universities for an update on the field’s status amid the economic and logistical disruption of the pandemic."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201006/there-are-universities-and-colleges-in-new-england-who-wont-survive-this-pandemic-impacts-rippling-across-higher-education?rssfeed=true

 

"Epidemiologists continue to scrutinize a White House event after more than a dozen people, including President Donald Trump and White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, announced they tested positive for COVID-19.

Several of them attended a ceremony held outside in the Rose Garden on Sept. 26 where Trump announced his Supreme Court nominee, Amy Coney Barrett, in front of more than 180 people.

The suspected “superspreader” event highlights the importance of wearing a mask and social distancing, even when outside. But some health officials, including leading infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci, say they don’t always wear a mask outside."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20201006/white-house-superspreader-event-in-rose-garden-reminds-people-that-yes-you-should-still-wear-mask-outside/2?rssfeed=true

 

In the News: "UMass Amherst puts 850 workers on indefinite furloughs"

 From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Citing the “incredible financial cost” associated with not fully reopening its campus this fall, UMass Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy has calculated nearly $169 million in budget losses and is now placing 850 workers, including dining and residence hall staff, on indefinite furloughs effective Sept. 13. 

“Because their union representation agreed to a furlough rather than a layoff, they will retain their UMass benefits, including health care, while still being entitled to unemployment benefits,” Subbaswamy wrote in an email Thursday to the campus community. “This agreement will also enable a smooth re-employment process when the campus resumes normal operations.” 

And there will likely be additional labor impacts at the flagship UMass campus. 

“While some permanent layoffs are expected in the coming weeks, we are doing everything possible to lessen the number of layoffs and are currently in discussions with other staff labor unions with the hope of reaching an agreement that prioritizes temporary reductions in hours and furloughs, which will likely impact approximately 450 additional campus employees,” according to Subbaswamy."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required) 

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200828/umass-amherst-puts-850-workers-on-indefinite-furloughs?rssfeed=true 

Commonwealth Magazine has a related article on the UMass cuts  

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/opinion/public-higher-ed-staff-resources-being-cut/

 

In the News: State Rep Roy would address early college; Franklin Fire Dept receives grant

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

State Rep Roy would make early college “one of my priorities"

"Highlighting new data showing greater academic success among high school students who take college courses, education experts called Wednesday for Massachusetts to continue investing in early college programs and broaden access to thousands more students. 

The early college courses available at roughly three dozen high schools have made a sizable impact on closing achievement gaps and improving equitable outcomes for students, analysts found in a study released by the Baker administration. Students who participated in the programs are enrolling in higher education at a rate 20 percentage points higher than their school and state peers, the Department of Higher Education said. 

Enrollment was more than 2,300 in 2020 and is projected to reach 4,200 students in fiscal year 2021, and proponents want to ensure that Massachusetts reaches a long-term goal nearly four times as high. Getting 16,000 students to participate, they said, would make major progress toward improving access to higher education for families that might view it as unaffordable." 

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200826/franklin-rep-jeff-roy-says-hell-make-early-college-courses-one-of-my-priorities?rssfeed=true 

Commonwealth Magazine has an article on this topic also

https://commonwealthmagazine.org/education/promising-results-with-early-college-programs/

Franklin Fire Dept receives grant

"Several area police and fire departments have received federal grants for pandemic-related needs. 

Although the money is from the federal Coronvirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program, the grants were awarded through the Baker-Polito administration. 

“These awards to municipal departments and state agencies throughout the commonwealth demonstrate our commitment to providing police officers, firefighters and other public safety personnel with the necessary tools to effectively serve their communities while continuing to fight the pandemic,” Gov. Charlie Baker said in a statement. 

The money is meant to be used to prevent, prepare and respond to coronavirus-related issues. The maximum grant amount was $50,000."

• Franklin Fire Department, $48,724 for mobile data terminals

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)

https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200826/area-police-fire-departments-receive-federal-coronvirus-related-grants?rssfeed=true

Franklin Fire Dept receives grant

Senate Passes Bill to Increase Higher Education Opportunities for People with Disabilities

Today (July 28, 2020), the Massachusetts State Senate passed legislation which removes existing barriers for students with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders or other developmental disabilities so they can attend public institutions of higher education. The bill, which passed with bipartisan support, honors the spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law 30 years ago this week by President George H.W. Bush.

Under An Act Creating Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, students would not be required to pass the MCAS, have a high school diploma, meet minimum requirements for academic courses, or take college entrance exams in order to access inclusive academic, social, and career development opportunities on college campuses with their peers. In addition, the bill also makes clear that strengthening access to higher education for students with disabilities is a goal of the Commonwealth's higher education system.

"We have made great strides in Massachusetts to provide inclusive opportunities for persons with disabilities, but there is always more work to be done," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I appreciate the overwhelming support for advancing this bill and look forward to seeing it make its way through the legislative process. I would like to thank Senators Rodrigues, Lovely and Gobi for their attention to this important issue."

"As we honor the 30^th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Senate's passage of this bill today marks another important step towards removing barriers, creating access and opening doors of opportunity and possibility for individuals with disabilities," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D- Westport) Chair, Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I applaud Senator President Spilka for her support and leadership, Senator Lovely for her commitment to this critical issue, and our partners—school districts and public higher education institutions—for their collaborative efforts to ensure full inclusion of individuals with disabilities within our Commonwealth."

"A little more than thirty years after the Americans with Disabilities Act became U.S. law, I am proud that the Senate has expanded this legacy by passing An Act Creating Higher Education Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities," said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem). "Breaking down barriers to higher education for persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities so they can enroll in college courses and participate in extracurricular activities represents a right and long overdue step for young people of all abilities. I am excited to see all of the great changes that will result if this bill becomes law, and am deeply appreciative to Senate President Spilka and Ways & Means Chair Rodrigues for their visionary leadership."

"The opportunity to attend one of our many state community colleges, colleges and universities and the further opportunities that creates in life is something that many people strive for. All students deserve that regardless of their abilities," said Senator Anne Gobi (D-Spencer), co-chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education.

"As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking Americans With Disabilities Act, I commend Senate President Spilka, Chairman Rodrigues, Speaker DeLeo, House Speaker Pro Tempore Haddad and their colleagues in the Legislature for creating opportunities in higher education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities," said University of Massachusetts President Marty Meehan. "This legislation builds on the university's ongoing efforts to expand access to higher education through innovative programming."

"Now, on the 30th anniversary of the ADA, the strongest civil rights law in the nation for people with disabilities, we at the MDSC applaud Senate President Spilka, Chair Rodrigues, Senator Lovely and members of the Massachusetts State Senate for passing Senate Bill S. 2844, which will open doors of opportunity for students with intellectual disabilities to gain access to higher education opportunities in an inclusive college setting," said Maureen Gallagher, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress. "For too long, public school options for students with intellectual disabilities transitioning to adulthood have been limited and the passage of this bill removes those existing barriers and ensures that people with intellectual disabilities have access to higher education that will lead to more opportunities for meaningful integrated employment and a fulfilling life in the community."

"We are proud that many community colleges are already experienced with inclusive concurrent enrollment programs, and know first-hand that participating students gain life skills and education that increase their ability to live more empowered, independent, and inclusive lives," said Tom Sannicandro, Director of the Massachusetts Association of Community Colleges. "This bill creates a life changing opportunity by breaking down barriers to higher education for students with disabilities. We are happy to see the bill move forward to expand this critical program to more students in Massachusetts."

"MAC applauds the Senate, our public higher education institutions, and school districts for working together to enact legislation that will remove barriers and provide access," said Julia Landau, Senior Project Director of Mass Advocates for Children. "With this bill, persons with intellectual disabilities and autism will be able to participate in college and gain the skills necessary to successfully live and work in the community."

"Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts strongly supports Senate passage of S. 2844, to provide college access for individuals with disabilities," said Michael J. Borr, President and Chair of AFAM. "This higher education initiative can significantly change the trajectory of life for a young adult with autism. Participating in college courses alongside their peers, provides people with autism needed opportunities for growth and community inclusion. The CDC estimates that 2.21% of adults are diagnosed with autism and approximately 80% are unemployed.  Many of these individuals would benefit greatly from the skill sets and much improved employment outcomes that this legislation provides."

Building on the success of the Massachusetts Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative (MAICEI) grant program, the bill codifies that program, which enables school districts and public institutions of higher education to partner together to offer inclusive concurrent enrollment initiative options for students with disabilities ages 18 to 22. Since 2007, over 1,200 students with disabilities have taken advantage of the opportunity to participate academically and socially in the life of participating colleges in Massachusetts through the MAICEI program.

In response to the challenges facing school districts and public higher education institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Senate bill ensures no additional costs are placed on a school district beyond the existing obligations already required under state and federal special education law.

Furthermore, the bill also ensures that colleges are not required to bear any additional costs of providing individual supports and services for students with severe intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorders, or other severe developmental disabilities who attend the college through the MACEI initiative.

Finally, the bill delays the implementation of the requirements placed on our school districts and higher education institutions within the bill until the 2021–2022 school year.

The bill now heads to the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Senate Passes Bill to Increase Higher Education Opportunities for People with Disabilities

In the News: "Trump administration rescinds rule on foreign students"

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"Facing eight federal lawsuits and opposition from hundreds of universities, the Trump administration on Tuesday rescinded a rule that would have required international students to transfer or leave the country if their schools held classes entirely online because of the pandemic.

The decision was announced at the start of a hearing in a federal lawsuit in Boston brought by Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs said federal immigration authorities agreed to pull the July 6 directive and “return to the status quo.”

A lawyer representing the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said only that the judge’s characterization was correct.

The announcement brings relief to thousands of foreign students who had been at risk of being deported from the country, along with hundreds of universities that were scrambling to reassess their plans for the fall in light of the policy."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200714/trump-administration-rescinds-rule-on-foreign-students

State Rep Jeff Roy had shared the joint letter sent to the President on this matter last week  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/07/state-rep-jeff-roy-we-made-bipartisan.html

State Rep Jeff Roy: "We made a bipartisan appeal to the President"

State Rep Jeff Roy tweets:

"We made a bipartisan appeal to the President to reconsider and rescind the new rules barring international students from the US if their school goes online. The policy is punitive, threatens safety, and will negatively affect our economy and university system."

The letter appealing to the President:

The President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President:

We are writing to respectfully request that you reconsider and rescind the new temporary final rules announced on Monday which prohibits international students from staying in the United States if they are enrolled in an American college or university that implements an online-only platform for instruction. We understand that the guidance also applies to an institution that moves to exclusively online mid-semester in response to rising COVID-19 cases

on campus, and to students who are living on campuses that are open, but offering classes online­ only to protect the health and safety of their faculty and campus community.

As you know, since March our colleges and universities have been in furious upheaval , navigating an unprecedented pandemic and formulating strategies to continue teaching students without putting them, faculty and staff at risk. Our institutions have sought to balance concerns for public health with their academic mission of teaching and scholarship. This work has been both difficult and costly, and the new rules will add more uncertainty and disruption. Moreover, the new rules leave international students with the choice of either transferring to another institution that provides in person or hybrid instruction , or to depart the country and risk not being able to return. Students who fail to comply with this guidance may face deportation.

We also note that the new rules were introduced without notice, without an opportunity for public comment, and put undo pressure on campuses to stay open when it is unsafe to do so. This comes at a time when the United States has been setting daily records for the number of new infections , with more than 300,000 new cases reported since July 1. And the policy effectively reverses course from the spring and summer, when ICE temporarily suspended pre­pandemic rules banning international students from residing in the U.S. and taking online-only courses.

More than a million international students come to the US every year to earn a degree that will help them land better jobs, and many remain in the US after graduation. They contribute to the cultural diversity of our campuses and many pay full tuition, which helps our institutions, especially in these times of economic difficulty and uncertainty. In Massachusetts there are 77,000 international students with active US study visas and another 32,000 in the rest of New England. Our state ranks fourth nationwide for its number of international students, and Northeastern University, with 16,000, ranks third in the country. Nationwide, international students contribute a $41 billion economic impact that supports more than 450,000 jobs. As one of our University Presidents observed, no public good is served by these efforts to deprive international students from continuing to make valuable and necessary contributions to the prosperity of the nation and the impact on the economic interests will be negative and potentially irreversible.

This policy is not only punitive to these international students, it also threatens the safety of other students and the communities surrounding college campuses. Additionally, transporting international students who may have been exposed to the coronavirus to other campuses or to airports to fly back to their home countries poses a myriad of health risks.

Finally, we understand that both Harvard University and MIT filed suit seeking a preliminary injunction this morning and I am sure others will follow. This litigation will be costly, will take time, and will waste precious judicial resources at a time when we should be focusing on rebuilding our nation.

Accordingly, we request that, in the best interest of our nation, you reconsider and rescind the temporary rules to help preserve our higher education system which is, indeed, the envy of the world.


Most respectfully,

Robert A. DeLeo 
Speaker of the House


Karen Spilka
Senate President

Jeffrey N. Roy 
House Chair, Committee on Higher Education

Anne Gobi
Senate Chair, Committee on Higher Education

Claire Cronin
House Chair, Committee on Judiciary

Paul McMurtry 
House Chair, Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development

Patricia A. Haddad 
Speaker Pro Tempore

Bradley H. Jones, Jr. 
House Minority Leader 20th Middlesex District

Alice H. Peisch 
House Chair, Committee on Education

Joanne M. Comerford
Senate Chair, Committee on Public Health

William H. Straus
House Chair, Committee on Transportation


Find the full PDF copy of this document
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NJGsarPjRlHNP6A5bLFVAAhP2Y5A95l5/view?usp=sharing

In the News: “We can’t just pretend everything is normal when we go back to school”

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

At-home schooling brings added challenges for special education students and parents

"Alexis Forgit, a Milford High School special education teacher, said some of her pupils have been automatically putting their backpacks on in the morning, not understanding why they are not going to school.

Several weeks ago, Alysia Butler’s sons could step out of class if they felt overwhelmed. One-on-one paraprofessionals, shared aides, behaviorists and other support staff helped them navigate the tough situations that would surface throughout the day.

Class has since shifted onto the online video-conferencing app Zoom in wake of the coronavirus. For the four boys and other children on the autism spectrum, the video calls can be draining.

“Fifteen minutes in, they have to check out,” said Butler, of Hopedale. “They can’t do that (on a Zoom call). You are expected to be there and present.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200429/for-metrowest-special-education-teachers-and-parents-at-home-schooling-brings-added-challenges


UMass Medical School to furlough 100 employees

"UMass Medical School plans to furlough 100 employees for up to six months in an effort to rein in costs amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The school announced the move in an internal memo on Wednesday.

The furloughed workers account for nearly 2% of the medical school’s workforce of around 6,000 employees. They could be brought back sooner than six months, and will still receive their health care coverage while they are furloughed, according to school spokeswoman Sarah Willey.

The furloughs are expected to go into effect next week. Willey did not have any information on Wednesday about which departments would be affected; Wednesday’s memo said they would happen “across all business units.”

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200429/umass-medical-school-to-furlough-100-employees

In the conversation with State Rep Jeff Roy shared here recently, we talked of his concern for the higher education institutions who were facing financial and demographic challenges before the pandemic came. UMass Medical was the first of three stops made in Worcester on the day I was fortunate to join him for his tour of all 29 higher ed state schools.

Listen to our conversation here
https://www.franklinmatters.org/2020/04/fm-255-state-representative-jeffrey-roy.html

 

State Rep Jeff Roy in one of the UMass Medical classroom with an interactive system of the body

In the News: college closure rules "a watershed moment"; Polar Park construction estimates rise

From the Milford Daily News, articles of interest for Franklin:

"State higher education officials on Friday approved a new set of regulations that will govern how they screen colleges and universities for financial risks and potential closures.

Education Secretary James Peyser said the Board of Higher Education’s vote marked a “watershed moment.”

“On the one hand, it’s an incremental shift,” Peyser said. “On the other hand, it’s really a major change in the nature of our relationship as a board and as a state in terms of our responsibility for ensuring the health of our higher education system writ large, not just the public system.”

The sudden 2018 closure of Mount Ida College in Newton drew new attention to the challenges faced by small, private colleges grappling with enrollment declines and other demographic trends, and sparked calls to protect current and prospective students from being blindsided by a closure."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200110/college-closure-rules-called-watershed-moment

In the News: college closure rules "a milestone"

"Construction costs for Polar Park have increased by $9.5 million over initial estimates, while costs to acquire the properties needed for the ballpark, relocate businesses and prepare the site for development have run roughly $20 million more than what was anticipated.

That has prompted city officials to negotiate changes to the agreements with the ballclub that will be playing at Polar Park starting in 2021 and for the private development that will be built as part of the overall $240 million redevelopment of the Kelley Square/Canal District area.

Those revisions, which are detailed in an 11-page report to the City Council for its meeting Tuesday night, primarily deal with actions to generate more revenue to cover those additional costs.

It also includes a bigger private development program that will be brought online and generate new tax revenues sooner."

Continue reading the article online (subscription may be required)
https://www.milforddailynews.com/news/20200110/polar-park-costs-increase---adjustments-made-to-cover-added-expenses

Representative Jeff Roy's State House Report for November 2019

From Rep Roy's November newsletter:

"Last week, Governor Charlie Baker joined me, Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Senate President Karen Spilka, Secretary of Education Jim Peyser, Senator Anne Gobi, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM), Higher Education Commissioner Carlos Santiago, and SEIU Local 509 to sign An Act to Support Improved Financial Stability in Higher Education (H4099) which will clarify and enhance the authority of the Board of Higher Education to monitor the financial health of Massachusetts colleges and universities.

This legislation requires any institution facing financial challenges that may jeopardize the institution’s ability to fulfill its obligations to current and admitted students to notify the Board of Higher Education, as well as submit a contingency plan for approval that includes arrangements for students to complete their studies. It also requires training for boards in financial metrics and fiduciary responsibilities.

It was a great day for students and their families, as this legislation will provide transparency and restore confidence in our higher education institutions. Through this legislation, the state will be a partner in providing transparency and accountability to promote resiliency and financial stability, and to ensure that our students have access to the opportunities that they need, that they can count on, and that deliver for the long-term strength of our state."

You can view the text of the legislation by clicking here

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H4099

You can view the video of the speech I delivered on the House floor by clicking here

https://youtu.be/Yif9z11_-jQ

You can read the Milford Daily News report on the bill by clicking here

https://franklin.wickedlocal.com/news/20191002/house-set-to-advance-college-closure-bill

the Governor's press release by clicking here

https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-baker-signs-legislation-to-support-financial-stability-in-higher-education-and

and my blog post by clicking here

https://jeffreyroy.com/2019/10/14/house-votes-to-increase-transparency-and-financial-reporting-requirements-of-massachusetts-higher-education-institutions/

For the full contents of the newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/8f1e3182bea3/ux2l17im8a-2451581?fbclid=IwAR2RJm_gA14O1ggtFzK-PYNR1SV798Gd7BlXu8PL1ghS6LdaosxMNXI_0n4

Governor signs college closure bill

Governor Baker Signs Legislation to Support Financial Stability in Higher Education and Protect Students and Families from Abrupt Closures

Thursday, November 14, Governor Charlie Baker joined Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Senate President Karen Spilka, Secretary of Education Jim Peyser, Senator Anne Gobi, Representative Jeff Roy, the Association of lndependent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM), and SEIU Local 509 to sign An Act to Support Improved Financial Stability in Higher Education (H4099) which will clarify and enhance the authority of the Board of Higher Education to monitor the financial health of Massachusetts' colleges and universities. 

This legislation requires any institution facing financial challenges that may jeopardize the institution's ability to fulfill its obligations to current and admitted students to notify the Board of Higher Education, as well as submit a contingency plan for approval that includes arrangements for students to complete their studies.

"Massachusetts is home to some of the world's most impressive public and private colleges and universities that also serve as major employers and drivers of business across the Commonwealth," said Governor Charlie Baker. "We are very pleased to have worked alongside the Legislature to sign this important bill into law that will protect students and families from sudden college closures, while also guaranteeing those institutions confidentiality as the Department of Higher Education works with them to understand their financial status."

"While we do not want to see any college or university close its doors, it is important to ensure sufficient notice to students and staff to make arrangements if the institution where they study or work is at high risk of closure, so they can complete their studies with as little disruption as possible, or have sufficient time to find new employment," said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. "This legislation will better protect students, families and higher education professionals."

In March 2019, Governor Baker filed legislation to enhance the authority of the Board of Higher Education to monitor the financial health of Massachusetts' colleges and universities. Under this legislation, colleges and universities shall immediately notify the Board of Higher Education of any known financial liabilities or risks which are reasonably likely to result in the imminent closure of the institution, or negatively affect the institution's ability to fulfill its obligations to current or admitted students. The institution would be required to submit to the Board for approval a contingency plan that includes provisions for providing advance notice to students and staff.

"Through this legislation, the Board and Department of Higher Education can ensure transparency for students and families without being overly burdensome to colleges," said Education Secretary James Peyser.

"We're especially pleased to see the votes on this legislation passing the House and Senate unanimously in recent weeks," said Carlos E. Santiago, Commissioner of Higher Education. "It is a sign of the deep levels of support for our work to monitor institutional finances with the goal of making sure that all students have the ability to complete their programs of study and pursue meaningful careers of their choice."

"Massachusetts has a global reputation for excellence in higher education, and it1s essential for all of us to work together to sustain and burnish public confidence in our colleges and universities," said Chris Gabrieli, Chair of the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education.

The Board of Higher Education will be responsible for establishing an annual process for screening every college and university to assess its financial condition, and to identify any institution that may be at risk of imminent closure. The Department of Higher Education is encouraged to work with the regional accrediting agency to conduct these annual screenings, in lieu of doing the screening itself.

The Board of Higher Education will also establish a training program for members of boards of trustees of public institutions of higher education on the proper governance of an institution of higher education. The instruction will include an overview of open meeting, public records, state procurement laws and state finance provisions established under state law, along with fraud prevention and fiduciary responsibilities.

The legislation signed today paves the way for the Board of Higher Education to vote on regulations by which it will exercise its oversight authority, expected at its December Board meeting.

"I am proud we have taken this important step as a Commonwealth towards furthering transparency and providing stability in our higher education system," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka. "No student's degree aspirations or financial resources should ever be put in limbo due to the sudden closure of their school."

"Today we've taken action to protect students, families, and staff of our higher education institutions by increasing the transparency of the financial health of institutions - requiring stronger oversight, reporting and accountability," said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo. "Thank you to the Higher Education Committee Chairs Jeffrey Roy and Anne Gobi for their diligent work on this legislation and for the support of House Ways and Means Chair Michlewitz and Representative Kenneth Gordon on these issues."

"In the wake of the Mount Ida closure last year, I heard from an extraordinary amount of people who were negatively affected and asked that the legislature take steps to protect students, faculty, and staff," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "I applaud the Baker-Polito Administration for supporting measures such as the development of student-focused contingency plans for public colleges and universities expected to close. This legislation will help to bring stability and transparency to our institutions of higher learning."

"Today is a good day for students, faculty, staff, and the Commonwealth," said Senator Anne M. Gobi, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. "We have shown, in a bipartisan manner, that our institutions of higher learning are important and their stability is necessary. Through these efforts, if problems arise they can be detected early with a set, transparent process in place that will safeguard our students and offer them a path to continue their higher education.

"This is a great day for students and their families, and this legislation will provide transparency and restore confidence in our Higher Education institutions," said Representative Jeff Roy, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. "The strength of our colleges and universities is paramount to our success as a commonwealth, as it promotes civic discourse and drives economic opportunity. When students and their families invest in their future, they deserve to know that their institution stands on a solid foundation. Through this legislation, the state will be a partner in providing transparency and accountability to promote resiliency and financial stability, and to ensure that our students have access to the opportunities that they need, that they can count on, and that deliver for the long-term strength of our state."

"We are fortunate to have vibrant private colleges across the Commonwealth that graduate tens of thousands of students each year who go on to contribute to the Massachusetts economy," said AICUM. "Today's legislation will help ensure that our colleges and universities continue to educate our students, employ our residents, further important research and enhance our host communities. I want to thank Governor Baker, Secretary Peyser, Commissioner Santiago, Senate President Spilka and House Speaker DeLeo for working collaboratively with AICUM to develop a process that utilizes the expertise and experience of the regional accrediting agency to annually screen our institutions and ensures confidentially to colleges and universities as they participate in the screening process."

 

Governor Baker Signs Legislation to Support Financial Stability in Higher Education (Facebook photo via Rep Roy)

Legislature Votes to Increase Transparency and Financial Reporting Requirements of Massachusetts Higher Education Institutions

On Wednesday (Nov 6), Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Speaker Robert A. Deleo and Senate President Karen Spilka with their colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature voted to pass legislation to enable the state to more closely monitor the financial health of Massachusetts private colleges and universities and provide transparency and security to students and families in the Commonwealth.

Known as an Act to Support Improved Financial Stability in Higher Education, the legislation requires higher education institutions to make public and accessible financial reports and requires any institution facing financial risk of closure to develop contingency plans to ensure a process is in place to assist and inform its students and other stakeholders. The legislation also establishes financial penalties on institutions for non-compliance with reporting and planning. The bill requires ethics and fiduciary training for higher education trustees and board members.

"No student's degree aspirations or financial resources should ever be put in limbo due to the sudden closure of their school," said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). "I want to applaud the work of the Chairs of the Committee on Higher Education in advancing this legislation that brings stability and transparency to our higher education system. I look forward to it being swiftly signed into law."

"This legislation helps to protect students, families, and staff of our higher education institutions by increasing the transparency of the financial health of institutions - requiring increased oversight, reporting and accountability," said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, (D-Winthrop). "Thank you to Chair Jeffrey Roy and Chair Anne Gobi for their diligent work on these issues and for the support of Chair Michlewitz and Representative Kenneth Gordon."

"In the wake of the Mount Ida closure last year, I heard from an extraordinary amount of people who were negatively affected and asked that the legislature take steps to protect students, faculty and staff," said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. "By including new requirements, such as the development of student-focused contingency plans if a public college or university is expected to close, these measures will bring stability and transparency to our institutions of higher learning."

"I look forward to the Governor signing this important piece of legislation into law, said Senator Anne Gobi, Chair of Higher Education Committee (D-Spencer). "Just this week there is news of another Massachusetts college considering a merger, which punctuates the importance of having the law in place quickly to establish guidelines and give students, faculty, staff and the community a form of protection and security."

"By improving accountability and the financial stability of our colleges and universities, this legislation will ensure both institutes of higher education and our students will be better prepared for the future," said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston).

"It was a great day for students and their families as this legislation will provide transparency and restore confidence in our Higher Education institutions," said Representative Jeffrey N. Roy, Chair of the Higher Education Committee. "The strength of our colleges and universities is paramount to our success as a commonwealth; when students and their families invest in their future, they deserve to know that their institution stands on a solid foundation."

The four major provision of the bill address the following topics listed below.

• Financial reporting: Requires that all public higher education and independent institutions post on their websites a copy of the institution's financial report and a summary written in terms understandable by the general public.
• Financial screening: Enables the Board of Higher Education (BHE) to monitor the financial health of independent institutions of higher education in Massachusetts.

o Requires an independent institution to immediately notify BHE of any known financial liabilities or risks likely that may result in closure.
o Requires BHE to establish a process to annually assess each institution's financial information to identify any institution it deems may be at risk of imminent closure. The BHE will keep confidential those assessments for independent institutions unless it is determined an institution is at risk of closure.
o Financial screenings may be conducted by an accrediting agency authorized by the U.S. Department of Education, or the Department of Higher Education.
o An institution determined to be at risk of imminent closure must prepare a contingency plan for closure, which includes a process to provide notice to a variety of stakeholders including, students, faculty, staff, pending applicants, and host communities. The closure plan must also include:

• arrangements for students to complete their program of study;
• a plan for the maintenance of student records; and,
• a plan to provide funding for refunding any student deposits and for the cost of protecting and maintaining student records.
• Enforcement: Requires penalties for failure to comply with financial screening requirements, which include fines of up to $1,000 per day, suspension of any state funds, or the suspension or revocation of any degree granting authority.

• Board training: Requires comprehensive training programs for members of the boards of trustees of the state's public higher education institutions on the proper governance, financial metrics, open meeting law and their legal and fiduciary responsibilities, at least once every four years.

Having been passed by the House and Senate, the legislation now goes to Governor Baker for his signature.

 

Worcester State students pose with members of the Higher Education committee before touring the WSC campus on Friday, Nov 1

House Votes to Increase Transparency and Financial Reporting Requirements of Massachusetts Higher Education Institutions

Today the Massachusetts House of Representatives voted to pass legislation that will enable the state to more closely monitor the financial health of Massachusetts private colleges and universities and provide transparency and security to students and families in the Commonwealth.

Known as an Act to Support Improved Financial Stability in Higher Education, the legislation requires higher education institutions to make public and accessible financial reports and requires any institution facing financial risk of closure to develop contingency plans to ensure a process is in place to assist and inform its students and other stakeholders. The legislation also establishes financial penalties on institutions for non-compliance with reporting and planning. The bill requires ethics and fiduciary training for higher education trustees and board members.

“This legislation will increase the transparency of the financial health of our public institutions of higher education requiring increased oversight, reporting and accountability to protect students, families, and staff,” said House Speaker Robert A. DeLeo, (D-Winthrop). “I’m proud of the work Chair Jeffrey Roy has done to lead this effort with the support of Chair Aaron Michlewitz and Representative Kenneth Gordon.”

“Today the House took a step on improving accountability and the financial stability at our colleges and universities,” said Representative Aaron Michlewitz, Chair of the House Committee on Ways & Means (D-Boston). “By enacting this legislation both our institutes of higher education and our students will be better prepared for the worst case scenario.”

“This legislation supports and strengthens our higher education system and these vital engines of opportunity, and in so doing, protects the interests of students and families,” said Representative Jeffrey Roy, Chair of the Higher Education Committee (D-Franklin). “The financial screening and enhanced reporting provisions will help us keep Massachusetts at the top of the heap and avoid the significant negative consequences of college closures for students, staff, and host communities. The training provisions will strengthen the governance of these institutions and assist boards in exercising their fiduciary responsibilities.”

The four major provision of the bill address the following topics listed below.

• Financial reporting: Requires that all public higher education and independent institutions post on their websites a copy of the institution’s financial report and a summary written in terms understandable by the general public.
• Financial screening: Enables the Board of Higher Education (BHE) to monitor the financial health of independent institutions of higher education in Massachusetts.

o Requires an independent institution to immediately notify BHE of any known financial liabilities or risks likely that may result in closure.
o Requires BHE to annually conduct a financial screening of each institution and identify any institution it deems may be at risk of imminent closure. The BHE will keep confidential those assessments for independent institutions unless it is determined an institution is at risk of closure.
o The BHE may accept the results of an annual financial screening conducted by an accrediting agency authorized by the U.S. Department of Education.
o An institution determined to be at risk of imminent closure must prepare a contingency plan for closure, which includes a process to provide notice to a variety of stakeholders including, students, faculty, staff, pending applicants, and host communities. The closure plan must also include:

• arrangements for students to complete their program of study;
• a plan for the maintenance of student records; and,
• provide funding for refunding any student deposits and for the cost of protecting and maintaining student records.

• Enforcement: Requires penalties for failure to comply with financial screening requirements, which include fines of up to $1,000 per day, suspension of any state funds, or the suspension or revocation of any degree granting authority.
• Board training: Requires comprehensive training programs for members of the boards of trustees of the state’s public higher education institutions on the proper governance, financial metrics, open meeting law and their legal and fiduciary responsibilities, at least once every four years.

The bill now goes to the Senate.

 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Tj68l91NCpAWqOUlp6FcrgyVtct8twrE/view?usp=sharing

Higher Education Committee Embarks on Public Campus Tours

Representative Jeffrey Roy (D-Franklin) and Senator Anne Gobi (D-Spencer), co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Higher Education, begin a mission on this week to visit all 29 public colleges and universities in the commonwealth. The tour is set for every Friday starting in North Adams on September 27 and continuing until every campus has been visited.

The Higher Education Committee will be visiting each campus to get a first-hand look at the facilities, meet with faculty and administrators, and hear from students about their experiences. The tours will include meetings with campus leaders, faculty, staff, and students at each of the institutions.

"It's ambitious, but when appointed to chair this committee, one of the very first things I did was to print out a map of the 29 public institutions in the Commonwealth to plan the trip," said Representative Roy. "We want to experience what life is like on these campuses which should provide a better context for the budget and legislative decisions we make. And the tours will provide an up close and personal view of each campus to give us a better perspective on the issues faced by those in each academic community."

Senator Gobi remarked, "I look forward to visiting each campus and having the opportunity to meet with students, faculty, and staff. I am aware that there are several deficiencies within higher education, funding being one, and I expect that these visits will help myself and the committee members to find ways that we can be most helpful and propel us forward."

The tours will also include the members of the Higher Education Committee, as well as the area legislators. The Committee will have an opportunity to see what has been done on each campus, and see what remains to be done to ensure that students have an engaging learning environment which will not only ensure their success, but wi1l contribute to the success of the Commonwealth as well.

The tentative tour schedule through the end of October is as follows: 

• FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 (START: TIME 9:30 A.M.):

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts - 375 Church Street, North Adams, MA
Berkshire Community College - 1350 West Street, Pittsfield, MA

• FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 (START TIME: 9:30 A.M.):

University of Massachusetts Amherst - 300 Massachusetts Avenue, Amherst, MA 
Greenfield Community College - One College Drive, Greenfield, MA

• FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18 (START TIME: 9:30 A.M.):

Salem State University - 352 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA
North Shore Community College - One Femcroft Road, Danvers, MA

• FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25 (START TIME: 9:30 A.M.):

Fitchburg State University - 160 Pearl Street, Fitchburg, MA
Mount Wachusett Community College - 444 Green Street, Gardner, MA


Additional info on the Joint Committee on Higher Education 
https://malegislature.gov/Committees/Detail/J29

Joint Committee on Higher Education