Georgia spent nearly $29 million last year so that about 9,600 students could take college courses while still enrolled in high school, according to a state audit released this week.
The report didn't question the state spending money on these programs, but auditors suggested ways to consolidate the Accel, HOPE grant and Move on When Ready programs to make it easier for students, families and educators.
Auditors warned combining the programs will force lawmakers to decide how much the state should pay for these courses and how much of the bill should be paid by schools, colleges or individual families. Depending on the program, students and their families pay some of the costs such as fees, books and other related charges.
The House Appropriations Committee requested state auditors conduct the review and suggest ways to streamline how the state runs and funds the programs. The review comes amid a national and statewide push to cut costs while encouraging more people earn a college degree.
It's too soon to say whether Georgia lawmakers will change the programs.
All three give academically strong students the opportunity to earn college credit while also working toward a high school diploma. Ideally, this shortens the time it takes to earn a college degree, while also challenging students bored with high school work.
Last year, the HOPE grant paid for 4,862 high school students to take courses typically taught at technical colleges. Like the HOPE scholarship, lottery funds support the grant.
Accel used to be funded by the lottery but the money now comes from the state general fund. This program paid for 4,449 students to take college courses last year in the core areas of English, math, science, social sciences and foreign languages.
While the other programs are open to all high school students, Move on When Ready is just for juniors and seniors. Last year, 288 students attended college full-time and took core courses and electives while still enrolled in high school. This program is paid for through the state's general public school funding.
Officials with the Georgia Department of Education agreed the three programs confuse students, parents and high school guidance counselors. In a statement officials said they would support one combined program.
About the Author
