Wisconsin technical colleges are caught between high demand and low funding, according to group that represents tech college officials. With increasing unemployment in Wisconsin more non-traditionally aged students are heading back to school for job training.
Paul Gabriel, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association , says with fewer state tax dollars coming to the colleges local property owners are seeing a heavier tax burden, in what are already tough economic times.
Gabriel concedes Wisconsin faces fiscal challenges but would to see the state become "a full partner once again" with funding. He claims the return on investment is quick as an independent study found that tech college graduates bring in added tax revenue within a few years through new wages.
Gabriel says resources and facilities are being stretched thin at the schools and reluctantly tuition will be raised next year.