About This Episode
Season 4. Episode 2.
Step into the latest episode of Education Insight with your host, Lacey Kendall, as we embark on a comprehensive exploration of the nationwide tumult surrounding financial aid applications. Initially conceived as a streamlined process to facilitate easier access to educational funding, the federal system now finds itself entangled in a series of issues causing significant delays for FAFSA, CADAA, and Pell Grant applicants across the nation.
In this episode, we untangle the complexities of this unexpected federal mess, unraveling the root causes and examining the ripple effects on students, administrators, and dedicated financial aid professionals. From the initial plans to the current challenges, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape and the vital information you need to navigate through these turbulent times.
Our esteemed guest, Marlene Garcia, the Executive Director of the California Student Aid Commission, joins us to share her expertise and insights. Learn how California is spearheading efforts to assist students in overcoming these challenges and securing their student aid in time for the upcoming academic term.
Tune in for an in-depth discussion that goes beyond the headlines, offering a nuanced perspective on the current state of financial aid and the ongoing strategies being implemented to ensure that students can access the support they need for their educational journey. Don’t miss this vital installment of Education Insight, where knowledge meets action in the realm of higher education finance
Featured Guest
Marlene Garcia
Executive Director, California Student Aid Commission (CSAC)
Marlene Garcia is the Executive Director of the California Student Aid Commission where she oversees a budget of $3.2 billion and a team of 125. She is passionate about expanding educational opportunities by removing financial barriers to college success.
Ms. Garcia brings 30 years experience working on education policy issues for a variety of government and higher education institutions. She served more than six years as a national leader in Apple Inc.’s Education Strategic Initiatives Group. Additionally, in her distinguished career, she has served as Vice Chancellor of Government Relations for the California Community College System, Deputy State Policy Director for the California State University System, and as a Senior Policy Consultant in the Senate Education Committee. She also served as a Senior Higher Education Advisor to former Assembly Speaker Willie L. Brown, Jr.
Interview Highlights
3:57 – Adrienne describes dual enrollment and its benefits.
7:15 – Adrienne speaks to how recent California mandates and initiatives may have influenced the growth of these new programs.
8:34 – Adrienne explains what research shows about the impact of dual enrollment on a student’s academic achievements or even their future success.
9:24 – Adrienne shares examples of dual enrollment activities that are taking place in our region and what is happening in the IE.
13:11 – Adrienne talks about strategies in place to make sure that equal opportunities are available for all students.
20:18 – Jorge explains how dual enrollment aligns with his role at Riverside County Unified School District.
21:28 – Jorge shares his experiences and thoughts on the current dual enrollment programs that are being offered at Riverside Unified School District.
23:32 – Jorge gives insight into how dual enrollment makes students career ready.
25:58 – Jorge describes what challenges students typically face in dual enrollment programs and how he addresses those issues.
32:43 – Jorge shares what he would like to see be the future of the dual enrollment program in his district and beyond.
36:31 – Special Feature: Avijeet Randhawa, 8th-Grader, Auburndale Intermediate School in the Corona Norco Unified School District.
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Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.