2023 Legislative Agenda

Workforce Development Incentive programs

Higher education continues to build strong connections between academic programs and high-growth, high-demand occupations and industries, including micro-credentials to equip learners to fill critical workforce needs. Our public colleges and universities will create more pathways to degree completion in key fields, including engineering, nursing and computer science. Collaborating with the CareerTech system, state system institutions will work to better align the nursing student corridor from LPN to RN to BSN.

The number of STEM bachelor’s degrees conferred by state system institutions increased 47% over the last decade, and STEM degrees at all levels increased 29%.

Strategic Planning

The State Regents are completing a comprehensive strategic planning process for the state system of higher education. The State Regents will engage the Legislature to advance recommendations to strengthen the student pipeline, enhance student success, expand workforce development and streamline system operations.

Expand Teacher Education Pipeline

The Oklahoma Future Teacher Scholarship and Employment Incentive Program ("Inspired to Teach"), approved during the 2022 legislative session, is designed to draw high-quality, effective educators for our public schools through scholarship funds and targeted incentives to help our state meet the critical need for more teachers. The State Regents propose statutory revisions for program administration, including establishing a pathway for home school graduates to enroll in accredited teacher education programs.

Concurrent Enrollment Task Force

The concurrent enrollment program strengthens student preparation, reduces family college costs and decreases the time required to complete a degree. The State Regents will work in partnership with the Concurrent Enrollment Task Force to advance recommendations focused on access to concurrent enrollment, concurrent course options, and additional investment in the program.

Universal FAFSA Completion

States across the country have reported increases in student enrollment when Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion is required. The State Regents recommend universal FAFSA completion for Oklahoma high school seniors with a waiver option to address student needs, when warranted.

Oklahoma's Promise

The State Regents' goals for the 2023 legislative session include streamlining high school course requirements for scholarship eligibility; an adjustable formula for income limits each year to increase flexibility for eligible students and families; and an appeal process to assist students facing unique circumstances.

Contact

Allison D. Garrett, Chancellor
agarrett@osrhe.edu

Dr. Jarrett Jobe, Vice Chancellor for Governmental Relations
jjobe@osrhe.edu

Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education
405.225.9424
www.okhighered.org