About the Beat

It is no secret the United States’ economy is in a recession. What has also become apparent in the past few years is that public education is one of the first items on the chopping block when budgets are reconstructed. The effects are felt at every level of the education system from elementary, middle and high schools to the state universities. Cuts to education budgets have been in the news for decades, and with each slash the results become more magnified. As a result, students and families have been taking on a larger financial obligation, especially at the collegiate level.
Now, with hard times falling upon more and more families, the decreased affordability of education is taking a more dramatic toll. That can even be seen in primary and secondary schooling. Private schools are becoming less of an option for Americans and that not only makes it more difficult for the schools losing enrollment to operate, but puts a larger burden on the already-stretched public schools those children are entering.
Another part of the education system that is taking a hit due to the economy is scholarships and financial aid. College tuition nowadays is a small fortune even at a state school, and there is less money being provided to help offset the cost for potential students. There are also more people applying for financial aid and scholarships than ever before because of the worsened economy, further compounding the problem.
As a student at Washington State University, I see first-hand the consequences these drastic budget cuts are having on our school, but we are not alone. As unbelievable as it sounds, it is even worse in some places and those nation-wide issues can offer a glimpse at what may be in store for this region. Follow me as I explore what happens in the education realm during the next four months and how it may affect the Northwest.
Please direct any questions or comments to mwalsh88@wsu.edu.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

University of Washington Halts Spring Start

Jan. 16, 2009
No new students at UW in Seattle this spring
NICK PERRY
Seattle Times

The University of Washington has taken the drastic step of closing its doors to new students who want to start classes this spring.

The move, which applies only at the main Seattle campus, comes in response to budget cuts and overenrollment — both driven by an ailing economy. One group of students who won't be affected: athletes.

UW Admissions Director Philip Ballinger said he plans to send out about 325 letters next week to students who would have been accepted for the spring quarter under normal circumstances. Those letters will explain that they won't be admitted at this time.

The students essentially will be given three options: to keep their applications on ice for consideration in the fall; to attend the Bothell or Tacoma branch campuses, which are still accepting spring students; or to apply for a refund of their $55 application fee.

Continued
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