This resolution officially designates April 2025 as Community College Month to recognize the vital role over 1,000 community colleges play in providing accessible education, workforce training, and economic prosperity across the United States.
Joe Courtney
Representative
CT-2
This resolution officially designates April 2025 as "Community College Month" to celebrate the vital role of over 1,000 community colleges nationwide. It recognizes these institutions for providing accessible, affordable higher education and critical workforce training. The bill highlights their significant economic contributions and commitment to local community needs.
Congress Designates April 2025 as 'Community College Month,' Celebrating $898 Billion Economic Impact
This resolution is short, sweet, and purely celebratory: it officially designates April 2025 as "Community College Month." Since it’s a resolution, it doesn’t change any laws, create new programs, or move any money around. Instead, Congress is using this moment to formally recognize the massive—and often understated—role community colleges play in the country’s economy and education system.
The Real-World ROI
Think of this as a big thank you note from the government, backed by some impressive numbers. The resolution highlights that community colleges are the primary access point for many people juggling life, work, and education. For those looking to upskill without taking on massive debt, the average annual tuition and fees for in-district students is just $3,990. This affordability is key for the average student, who is 27 years old and often balancing family or work responsibilities while pursuing an education.
The Economic Engine Next Door
This isn't just about affordable education; it’s about serious economic horsepower. The resolution points out that community college alumni generated nearly $898.5 billion in added income to the national economy in fiscal year 2020. That's 4.1 percent of the entire U.S. Gross Domestic Product, which is a huge chunk of change driven by local institutions. Furthermore, for every dollar of public money invested, the government gets $6.80 back in generated tax revenue. If you’re a taxpayer, that return on investment is hard to ignore.
Training the Modern Workforce
For anyone working in or running a business that needs skilled labor, community colleges are the backbone. The resolution emphasizes that these institutions are the main source for workforce training in high-demand fields like construction, healthcare, and increasingly, semiconductors. They tailor their programs to local needs, meaning the person getting certified in welding or nursing likely learned their skills just 10 miles from where they live, ready to plug directly into the regional job market. This focus on local, practical skills is what makes them so vital for keeping the modern economy running smoothly.