Fewer students are enrolling in Iowa s state universities, and the State Board of Regents is meeting this week to discuss ways to change that. Community college is another option, and this year, the Iowa Department of Education has made nearly $3 million in grants available to train people in multiple, high-demand fields that don t require a four-year degree. Jeremy Varner, administrator of the Division of Community Colleges and Workforce Preparation for the Iowa Department of Education, said there s a need for employees with some very important skill sets - who could get their training and then, start right away. .
Republicans in New Hampshire have already submitted bills to expand the eligibility requirements for the state s Education Freedom Accounts Program. But critics say diverting more public-education dollars to private, religious and home schools is draining resources for public schools which teach the majority of children. One bill aims to increase the eligibility cap, allowing families making 500% of the federal poverty level to receive the public funds. .