In this report, we examined five kinds of equity-focused metrics in state OBF policies to determine the extent to which states prioritize the enrollment and success of students of color and students from low-income backgrounds:
- Enrollment metrics for students of color
- Success metrics for students of color
- Enrollment metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Success metrics for students from low-income backgrounds
- Metrics related to campus racial climate
While the inclusion of these metrics in policies is essential, how they are deployed is equally as important. Therefore, we also considered whether the metrics were mandatory, optional, or weighted. Weighted metrics are the most ideal. These are mandatory and are given additional value, so strong institutional performance on a weighted metric would garner greater advantage or funding.
Two-Year Institutions
Washington adopted outcomes-based funding in 2010. It is allocated as base funding annually.
Washington state’s system of community and technical colleges uses a performance-based funding model known as The Student Achievement Initiative (SAI).
Colleges earn points, with funding attached, when students reach key academic “momentum points” or milestones, such as finishing college-level math, completing the first year of college, and earning a certificate or degree. Rigorous data analysis shows that students who achieve these momentum points are much more likely to earn a certificate or degree.
The metrics include:
- Basic skills
- Completing the first 15 college credits
- Completing the first 30 college credits
- Successfully completing a college-level English/communication course
- Successfully completing a college-level quantitative course
- Completing 45 credits in an academic-transfer or professional-technical pathway
- Completing certificates, degrees, and apprenticeships
Students from low-income backgrounds and students of color receive an additional point upon successful completion of the first 15 college credits, and upon degree or apprenticeship completion. The policy does not have a metric that measures campus climate.
The policy is overseen by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. To learn more, visit https://www.sbctc.edu/about/agency/initiatives-projects/student-achievement-initiative.aspx.
Two-Year Institutions |
|
| Enrollment of Students of Color | None |
| Success of Students of Color | Weight |
| Enrollment of Students from Low-Income Backgrounds | None |
| Success of Students from Low-Income Backgrounds | Weight |
| Measure Related to Campus Climate | None |
Outcomes-Based Funding Map