South Dakota High School Students Face Dual Credit Course Cost Hike Under Gov. Kristi Noem’s Proposal
South Dakota high school students may soon experience a 50% rise in the cost of dual credit courses if state legislators approve the budget proposal put forth by Republican Gov. Kristi Noem. Currently, these students benefit from a substantial subsidy, paying only $50.84 per credit hour, a mere one-third of the total cost. The proposed change aims to evenly split the cost between the students and the state, raising the student expense to approximately $76 per credit hour.
The financial adjustments arise amidst a backdrop of legislative cuts – a response to South Dakota’s declining sales tax revenues. Gov. Noem’s budget, which also outlines a $2 million operational cut and a $9 million reduction to the building maintenance and repair fund for the South Dakota Board of Regents, intends to reduce the state’s annual expenditure on dual credit courses by around $1 million.
Kristi Noem
The dual credit program, crucial to many eager South Dakota students, allows them to earn college credits while still in high school. In fiscal year 2024 alone, the program saw enrolment of 4,213 students in public university courses and 1,849 in technical college courses. Classes, accessible both on-campus and online, are offered through all six public universities and four technical colleges throughout the state.
South Dakota’s Educational Landscape
While adjusting the dual credit costs, Gov. Noem’s budget simultaneously introduces a $4 million initiative for education savings accounts. These accounts are designed to empower families with public funds for private schooling, or costs related to homeschooling, ultimately enhancing educational choice within the state.
Nonetheless, the South Dakota Department of Education emphasizes that the dual credit program will remain valuable. “The governor’s proposed budget will continue to allow motivated students the privilege to earn college credits at a reduced rate,” the department declared. Education advocates, however, caution that the financial increase might deter students from taking advantage of this opportunity.
Consequently, Ashley Seeklander, the government relations chair for the South Dakota School Counseling Association, stresses the success dual credit programs offer. “As school counselors, we see firsthand the positive impact that the dual credit program has on student success,” she stated. Research supports this, showing that dual credit participants often have higher GPAs and retention rates in college.
Governor Noem’s plan could potentially alter South Dakota’s education dynamics. Currently, about 60% of dual credit students choose to attend South Dakota public universities after graduation. This local retention is significant for the state’s education systems and workforce development.
Board of Regents and Financial Considerations
The South Dakota Board of Regents, governing the public universities and supporting two special schools for the blind, visually impaired, and deaf, is adapting to these changes. Executive Director Nathan Lukkes highlights the importance of minimizing educational costs: “The last thing we want is finances standing in the way of education.”
Lukkes, alongside South Dakota Board of Regents President Tim Rave, continues to navigate these financial waters, focusing on maintaining quality education despite budget constraints. Rave’s leadership, along with contributions from board members like Dr. Judy Dittman, drives efforts to sustain robust educational standards while balancing fiscal responsibilities.
The board’s strategic planning is vital, considering Gov. Noem’s proposed reductions and the potential impact on infrastructure maintenance and repairs. “We’re well positioned at the moment,” Lukkes said, but he warned against the long-term risks of sustained budget cuts, emphasizing the importance of preventative upkeep to avoid costly repairs in the future.
Contact South Dakota Searchlight for more information about the ongoing budget discussions and their implications for South Dakota’s educational framework.