Help launch community college here

May 05, 2008 04:54 am

— How rapidly stakeholders embrace a visionary plan is not necessarily the best measure of its long-term success. Community groups have a tendency to step forward tentatively to gain information and show some degree of support, if only to demonstrate they are open to new ideas.
The Susquehanna Valley Community Education Project has garnered the attention of an impressive roster of community and educational organizations. At a recent meeting, proponents formed a steering committee of 24.
Further community outreach will take place in upcoming months. Residents and elected officials should speak out in favor of the plan.
Four-year college costs can be intimidating to some young people and their families. Community colleges offer a valuable and economical stepping-stone into collegiate studies.
Organizers say state funding would be used to cover a portion of operating costs.
Generally, a county government or other sponsor also takes a lead role to share the financial burden and keep costs down at community colleges.
Optimistic plans suggest the first classes could be offered as early as next fall. Such quick progress will only occur if an existing community college offers the courses.
Proponents of the community-college concept have made exciting progress in a matter of months. Groups and officials who have stepped forward to support the concept should be acknowledged. They should remain at the forefront and help drive the plan forward.
The Susquehanna Valley Community College would be a tremendous asset to Sunbury and the entire region.
Its ultimate success will depend on the ability to transform this initial interest into momentum to carry the idea from the drawing board to reality.