Take Two translates the day’s headlines for Southern California, making sense of the news and cultural events that affect our lives. Produced by Southern California Public Radio and broadcast from October 2012 – June 2021. Hosted by A Martinez.
The idea of a publicly funded education goes back all the way to the Founding Fathers. It's not too often I get to quote John Adams, but here's what he wrote way back in 1785:
"The whole people must take upon themselves the education of the whole people and must be willing to bear the expense of it."
Easier said than done, John.
It wasn't until well into the 20th century that the entire country embraced public schools for all children. Now, there's a push to expand the concept to higher ed. Politicians have made "free college" a campaign rhetoric staple over the years but with no success.
Until now. Free college. It's happening, right here in California.
City College of San Francisco has become the first free community college in the country. Come Fall 2017 San Francisco residents can attend and won't have to pay tuition fees.
For more on the announcement and what it entails, A Martinez spoke with Ron Gerhard. He's the Vice chancellor of finance and administration at the community college.