“For many young Texans, that next step is college. Let’s work together to make college accessible and affordable for more qualified, motivated students than ever before.

“I propose increased funding for the Texas Grant Program ... that has opened the door for traditionally underserved Texans.  I like this approach because it not only knocks down a barrier between hard-working students and the success they desire.  It also keeps our college classrooms supplied with students who are motivated and prepared to succeed ....

“Any discussion of higher education must include our community colleges and proprietary schools.  Every year, these institutions turn out students who are prepared to succeed in the completion of their four-year college degree, as well as folks ready to work in the trades that contribute so much to our quality of life.

“I agree with Comptroller (Susan) Combs that we should significantly increase our investment in community colleges. Besides being anchors to their local communities, these schools are ideally positioned to educate a growing population of workers that have either been displaced by the current economic turmoil, or have job skills that have been outpaced by rapidly-evolving technology.”