State cuts could reduce local dual-credit programs
EVERETT — Proposed cuts to the state budget could affect more than 3,000 students at Snohomish County school districts who participate in a dual-credit program with local colleges.
Through the state’s Running Start program, high school students can take classes at local community colleges for free. Some even take enough classes to complete an associate degree along with a high school diploma.
All three proposed state budgets — from Gov. Bob Ferguson, the House and the Senate — include a $14 million cut to Running Start statewide. Similar reductions are also included in a separate Senate bill. At Everett Community College, that would amount to a $200,000 to $300,000 budget reduction, limiting the number of classes the college can pay for per student.
“We are so happy they’re not ending the program, but they are cutting some of the funds, which will slow the momentum for some students,” said Chemene Crawford, president of Everett Community College. “So I’m very happy that they’ve chosen to not end the program because I do believe that the legislators know Running Start is a winner.
https://www.heraldnet.com/2026/03/05/state-cuts-could-reduce-local-dual-credit-programs/