On July 8, 2024, TICAS submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Education on the proposed priorities, requirements, and definitions for the Postsecondary Student Success Grant (PSSG) program.
We are excited to see the U.S. Department of Education propose priorities to fund programs that have demonstrated completion success with data and rigorous research and evaluation methods, while also creating opportunities for under-resourced institutions to equitably implement emerging practices that show promise to improve completion for students of color and from low-income backgrounds.
In our comments, TICAS discussed additional considerations for identified priorities, requirements and definitions that we believe could strengthen the program even further. Based on our analyses, we proposed that the Department:
- Proposed definition “Completions of Value”: Allow local economic data to be the driver of this metric, if definition is implemented.
- Priority 3 – Expansion Phase: Put in place processes to expedite the review of eligible studies that PSSG applicants can use that overlap and reflect their student populations and institution types and provide clear guidance on how to submit a relevant study for review to determine if a study meets WWC standards.
- Priority 4- Using Data for Continuous Improvement: Clearly define and articulate baseline metrics to reflect outcomes of students of color, Pell-eligible, rural-located, first-gen, and other intersecting identities, as well as allow institutions to use funds for institutional research, research capacity and data systems.
- Supplement not Supplant: Continue to fund programs that have demonstrated some level of effectiveness, met the program requirements, and targeted underserved students as defined in the Register.
Our recommendations aim to ensure the program supports continuous student support, enhances data systems and research capacity, and prioritizes equity-driven outcomes. We look forward to continuing to contribute to the development of policies that will drive meaningful improvements in postsecondary student success.
