[Wsssc] A Unified Approach to FAFSA Simplification Implementation for Washington Community and Technical Colleges

[Lauren Hibbs]

Dear WSSSC,



In preparation for the release of ISIRs and the fast approach to summer and fall quarters, attached includes a position paper titled "A Unified Approach to FAFSA Simplification Implementation for Washington Community and Technical Colleges." This paper has been prepared for college presidents and vice presidents by leaders of WSSSC, FAC, BAC, and SBCTC IT and Student Services.



Key Takeaways:

  *   The FAFSA has undergone significant simplification through legislative efforts, aiming to make federal student aid more accessible.
  *   Despite intended simplification, challenges in implementation persist, impacting FAFSA submission rates among Washington students, particularly low-income and minority students.
  *   Changes to the FAFSA process necessitate updates to institutional policies, staff training, and technology systems across Washington's community and technical colleges.
  *   A unified and collaborative approach is crucial for successful implementation, involving coordination among various campus departments and external partners.



Suggested Actions:

  *   Invest in the well-being of financial aid staff
  *   Prioritize a comprehensive understanding of legislative changes and their impact.
  *   Develop and implement a structured action plan encompassing technology update, staff training, policy revisions, and communication strategies.
  *   Foster a culture of collaboration and communication within institutions and with external partners.
  *   Ensure clear, accessible information is available to students and families regarding changes in Pell Grant eligibility, application process, etc.
  *   Address disparities in FAFSA completion rates among different student demographics through targeted outreach and support initiatives.



Next Steps:

  *   Review and discussed the attached draft paper with president council members.
  *   Consider, as appropriate sharing with boards of trustee's, community-based organizations, and stakeholders.
  *   Begin to think through scenarios for your college for how to best support the interconnecting work of departments due to this disruption.
  *   Next week, a pivoted action plan with department specific information will be provided for additional college guidance.



Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or require further clarification.





Warm Regards,

Krista Francis (she|her|hers)
VP of Student Services
Peninsula College
KFrancis at pencol.edu<mailto:KFrancis at pencol.edu>
T: (360) 417-6225
www.pencol.edu<http://www.pencol.edu>

Karl Smith  (he|him|his)
VP of Student Affairs
Tacoma Community College
ksmith at tacomacc.edu<mailto:ksmith at tacomacc.edu>
T: (253) 566-5127
https://tacomacc.edu/

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