Government

Reactions in higher education to President Biden's proposal for tuition-free community college, increased Pell Grants and tuition aid for students at minority-serving institutions have been largely positive, but the plan won't be easy to get through Congress.

President Biden wants $109 billion for two-year colleges, $80 billion addition for Pell Grants, $62 billion for retention and completion efforts, and $39 billion for two free years at minority-serving institutions for most students.

The slow confirmation of presidential appointees could delay actions by the Biden administration on higher education issues.

A bill intended to close the data gaps on student outcomes in higher education is widely supported, though some are hesitant about how it handles personal information.

A recent report found that the state of Tennessee owes between $150 million and $544 million in land-grant funds to Tennessee State University. Lawmakers have known about the underfunding for decades.

Allowing learners to use the Pell Grant for short-term programs could build a different kind of bridge -- one that links training, education and employment, argue Jamie Merisotis and Julie Peller.

Rather than expanding opportunities, opening up Pell Grants to short-term job training could put workers at greater risk, argue Daniel Bustillo and Amy Laitinen.

James Kvaal, nominee for under secretary of education, skated through his committee nomination hearing Thursday.