Educating Plus 50 Learners: State of Community College Plus 50 Programs Nationwide American Association of Community Colleges Plus 50 Initiative

The Critical Need The baby boomer generation is nearing “traditional” retirement age, and fully intends to stay engaged in society. For many, staying on the job is a necessity, not a choice.

Workers over age 45 who are unemployed, are more likely to stay unemployed longer, than younger workers. More “long-term unemployed” are plus 50 workers. Plus 50 & Unemployment

How many are out of work? March 2009 – 13.2 million Americans unemployed National unemployment rate 8.5% (up 0.4% over the previous month) Unemployment rate ages % (up 0.4% over the previous month) Unemployment rate ages % (up 0.6% over the previous month)

The Plus 50 Adult: A Dramatically Different Type of Community College Student

Community Colleges Offer Options and Possibilities Short-term training for a new career can get an unemployed worker back on the job and earning money in a matter of months, not years.

Personal enrichment Workforce training and career development Volunteering Community Colleges Offer a Range of Programs

An outdated stereotype of the “older learner” needs to be discarded. Community Colleges Focus More on Enrichment

Of the colleges offering workforce training courses, over half tailored them to plus 50 student needs. Tailoring Courses for Plus 50 Needs

Colleges often do not tailor workforce training and career development programs to plus 50 student needs

Enrichment Focused Plus 50 Programs May Hurt Community College Bottom Lines

Community Colleges Are Affordable Community colleges are more affordable than 4-year colleges and universities, which makes them a viable option for displaced workers who may be cash-strapped.

Community College Programs for Workers Workforce training & career development programs help plus 50 adults prepare for new careers during a turbulent economy.

Adjusting to Campus Life Colleges are ready to help plus 50 students return to the classroom.

Colleges can improve support services that help integrate plus 50 students into the fabric of campus life.

Many community colleges are reaching out to plus 50 adults with tailored programs, but more needs to be done. Inviting Plus 50 Adults to Campus

Challenges Community Colleges Face Tuition waivers policies

Challenges Community Colleges Face Some state funding formulas are biased against part-time students, causing a revenue drain for a college that offers programs for plus 50 students.

Needs Assessment is a BIG must, for plus 50 programs

Call to Action: Know your customer: conduct a high-quality needs assessment

Call to Action: Customize workforce training and career development programs to match the needs and objectives of plus 50 students.

Call to Action: Concentrate more on support services that can help plus 50 students integrate into campus life.

Call to Action: Provide additional tailored financial aid that goes beyond the state-mandated tuition waivers.

Call to Action: Put policies in place that streamline registration for plus 50 students

Call to Action: Remember that even though some need financial aid, the plus 50 age group also represents a valuable market and source of revenue.

About the Survey 204 community colleges responded to the survey. Approximately 1,081 institutions representing every community college in the United States were invited to participate. Conducted online in fall 2008.

Website Resources “Educating Plus 50 Learners: Opportunities for Community Colleges” Full Report & Executive Summary Biweekly e-newsletter Publications Student stories