‘Free At Lee’ program becomes permanent
August 2, 2024
The Lee College Board of Regents agreed to institutionalize its “First Time Free At Lee” program, and will expand it to its Huntsville Center.
The First Time Free At Lee program provides tuition, fees and textbooks to students attending the college for the first time after high school or completing a GED. It was first introduced in 2020, when students had to take all classes online.
“We have been bringing an agenda item to the board every semester,” Dr. Scott Bennett, associate vice president of student services, said. “Now, we are seeking (the board’s) approval for the fall and spring semester for the main campus until the board decides to rescind Free At Lee. Dual credit students can also receive two free semesters; one while they are in high school and another upon graduating high school.
To qualify for the program, a student must live in Lee College’s service area, have not attended Lee College since earning a diploma or GED and apply for financial aid.
The Huntsville Center is for inmate students wishing to work in business or obtain trade skills after incarceration.
“About 85% of Huntsville students get Pell grants to cover all of their expenses,” Dr. Douglas Walcerz, provost and vice president of academic and student affairs, said. “They don’t take institutional money during their first semester. This would be for the 15% who do not qualify for a Pell grant.”
About 95% of ex-offenders from Lee College Huntsville Center do not re-offend and become functional citizens, according to the Lee College website.
To apply for Free At Lee, go to lee.edu/apply. The fall semester starts Monday, Aug. 26