- These programs provide opportunities for thousands of Arizona residents to improve their lives, strengthen their careers, and contribute to the region's economy and workforce. This decision may lead to a major blow to the community’s economic growth and development.
- PCC's Adult Education program has helped more than 650 adults complete their High School Equivalency (HSE/GED) diplomas while enabling more than 1,700 learners to complete entry-level workforce training and begin career pathways.
Arizona community colleges are facing a financial blow to their Community College Adult Education Workforce Program after Arizona Governor, Katie Hobbs, and the Arizona Legislature have decided to end $1.5 million in funding. This follows the September 2025 announcement of a $10 million cut in federal dollars that already threatens the education of students and employees at Arizona colleges with adult education programs designed to help nontraditional students improve their chances of higher income jobs and work opportunities.
The state’s education attainment goal is 60 percent compared to its current 49 percent. With the significant decrease in government funding, colleges are left wondering what will happen to programming, students, communities and the state’s workforce. College staffing and services will begin to see drastic reductions if state funding is not restored.
Pima Community College found its Adult Basic Education for College and Career Program existence in trouble due to the monetary cuts. Pima Community College Governing Board Chairman Greg Taylor told the Arizona Luminaria, “The financial pressure on the college is much more acute than it has ever been. When you look at that larger perspective, this is not just a federal issue. That’s just what’s happening right now. This has also been a long period of disinvestment from the state and in community colleges, specifically in Maricopa and Pima that haven’t received those dollars.”
In the meantime, PCC leadership has stated they will continue to fight for programming that benefits students and the community, including seeking funding from other sources. To fill in the impending gaps, funding normally allocated for emergencies will be used for immediate needs, but this plan will not sustain the programs indefinitely.
