Kentucky Community and Technical College System Proposes 11 Key Changes Following Legislative Directive

FRANKFORT, KY — The Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) Board of Regents has approved 11 recommendations aimed at reforming the college system in response to a legislative directive from the state General Assembly. The meeting took place this Thursday, where KCTCS President Ryan Quarles described the gathering as a pivotal moment for the system to “redefine ourselves.”

The recommendations come after Senate Joint Resolution 179 mandated KCTCS to evaluate its structure and processes, setting a deadline for a report by December 10. Among the proposals, KCTCS aims to become the sole provider of dual credit courses in Kentucky, which allows high school students to earn college-level credits.

The recommendations include:

• Strengthening academic training and program offerings
• Establishing a comprehensive workforce plan that includes financial, academic supports, and career counseling
• Evaluating KCTCS’ geographical footprint and potential mergers
• Preserving college-level accreditation while focusing on shared services
• Reforming KCTCS governance, including term limits for board members
• Suggesting outcomes-based funding for KCTCS
• Expanding funding for the Work Ready Scholarship
• Maintaining the current personnel system
• Addressing transferability of associate degrees to four-year institutions
• Repealing outdated legal statutes

Quarles highlighted that the 11 points are merely recommendations and emphasized the importance of transforming the organization. During discussions, a proposed motion to vote separately on governance reforms failed, and the board ultimately approved all recommendations.

The KCTCS currently serves more than 100,000 students across 16 colleges in Kentucky. However, the system is under scrutiny due to a whistleblower lawsuit from former Chief of Staff Hannah Rivera, who alleges retaliation after reporting waste and mismanagement. Rivera claims she drafted the legislation that prompted the recent reforms.

The board convened an executive session during the meeting to discuss the ongoing legal matter. A motion hour related to the lawsuit will occur next week, following the education committee meeting.

As KCTCS prepares to present these recommendations to the Interim Joint Committee on Education next week, the implications of these proposed changes could significantly impact the future of higher education in Kentucky.