NC H601

State Board of Community Colleges shall conduct a study and report to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by March 1, 2024, on options for improving community college funding and accountability measures.

Study must evaluate the full-time enrollment (FTE) funding allocation process, including options to reduce membership hours needed per FTE, increase base allotments, revise tiered course weighting, and provide start-up funding for new programs.

Study shall assess the impact of the current FTE-based formula on small community colleges and part-time student enrollment, including comparison of funds generated by part-time students relative to support services provided.

Study must review institutional accountability measures and performance standards, evaluate their effects on student success and college funding, and recommend additional performance metrics addressing student learning, success, and skills attainment.

Study shall consult with the Department of Commerce to determine job demand in high-demand fields (including STEM, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and welding) and evaluate whether the current funding model encourages or discourages community colleges from maintaining programs in those fields.