It's not our fault the General Assembly took so long. Because of the conflict, community colleges across the state have been in a state of limbo. They had to wait for the definite word on the increase so final bills could be sent to students. Carteret Community College President Dr. Joe Barwick said he hated to see the increase, but the college was required to follow the law. I'm always disappointed when the legislature approves a tuition increase because I'm proud that the North Carolina Community College system has one of the lowest tuitions in the United States,'' said Dr. Barwick.
Low tuition is part of the original charge of an open door policy to give access to all people.
Dr. Barwick said the community college would work with students to pay the additional money. We are sensitive to the burden this places on students. We plan to inform students that there are options, such as short-term loans and other financial aid,'' he said. North Carolina Community College System President Martin Lancaster is concerned that this tuition increase comes at a time when many students are least able to absorb it. Many have been laid off and are the least able to afford tuition hikes.