The state gets a better-educated citizenry. It is sad that an educator holds this view of Arizona's students. The community colleges believe that such students are ready for college, that students should be encouraged to attend college and that dual enrollment gives them the opportunity to get better prepared for a successful college career. She goes on to suggest that taxpayers pay twice for such students. She is wrong .
High schools receive funds for each student taking four high school courses.
If the student takes more than four courses the school does NOT get any additional state or federal funding. The Maricopa Community Colleges adhere strictly to the State Community College Board requirement that only students who are already taking a full high school load are eligible for dual enrollment courses. Ms. Garesche is familiar with this state board rule since she was on the legislative committee that recommended them. It seems appropriate for her, as an educator, to properly communicate what she knows to be true. The truth is that Arizona should not consider reducing funding for college courses but should consider greatly increasing such funding since community colleges provide high quality education at a cost well below the national average.