Re: “WA college students flock to pc science, and AI provides to the attract” [Nov. 22, Education Lab]:
Demand for the favored and significant diploma program of pc science won’t quickly subside. Fortuitously, a key answer to the necessity for added pc science diploma program slots is true in entrance of us, and The Seattle Occasions report uncared for to say it.
College students, households and policymakers ought to think about the pipeline of pc science expertise coming from the non-public not-for-profit schools and universities throughout Washington. Throughout Impartial Faculties of Washington member campuses, for instance, greater than 8,000 college students graduate with bachelor’s and superior levels every year and about 500 baccalaureate and graduate certificates and levels in pc science are awarded yearly. Half of the scholars enrolled at Impartial Faculties of Washington member campuses establish as Black, Indigenous, or college students of colour.
These college students are nicely supported with scholarships and different help, however the Legislature ought to design and fund incentive applications to make it much more attainable for Washingtonians to enroll at a non-public not-for-profit faculty or college. These campuses are an necessary a part of the answer to elevate our economies and communities throughout the state.
Terri Standish-Kuon, Seattle, president and CEO, Impartial Faculties of Washington
