Academic and career planning services provided to pupils, requiring the reporting of certain data on college student costs and outcomes, and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Impact
The implementation of AB891 is expected to enhance transparency regarding the costs and benefits associated with various degree programs. Starting from the 2025-26 school year, the data will be distributed to school boards, who are then required to provide this information to high school juniors and seniors. By informing students and their families about potential salary outcomes and associated debts from different programs, the bill aims to facilitate more informed decision-making regarding college education and career paths, ultimately improving educational and economic outcomes in Wisconsin.
Summary
Assembly Bill 891 introduces mandatory data reporting requirements for higher education institutions in Wisconsin, including the University of Wisconsin System, technical colleges, and specified private colleges. The bill mandates these institutions to annually collect and submit data relating to undergraduate programs, including average graduate salaries at 1, 5, and 10 years post-graduation, average student debt, graduation rates, and annual costs of attendance. This data will be compiled by the Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB) and made accessible to the public and students as part of academic and career planning services.
Contention
While AB891 predominantly draws support from those who advocate for enhanced accountability in higher education, there are concerns regarding potential administrative burdens on institutions. Critics argue that the regulations might create unnecessary complications or expenses for colleges, particularly smaller institutions, as they strive to meet the new reporting requirements. Furthermore, there may be apprehension about how the reported data could be utilized, especially around performance evaluations or funding allocations, which could inadvertently affect institutional reputations or student enrollments.
requiring the department of education to collect and publish data regarding the costs associated with providing special education services to students of public, charter, private, trade, and other K-12 schools or academies.
A tuition program for higher education students seeking careers in teaching, firefighting, or law enforcement, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Student loans for postsecondary education, requirements related to student loan servicers, creating an office of the student loan ombudsman in the Department of Financial Institutions, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.