Regulatory Update: AACS Submits Public Comments on DOE Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
Last week, AACS, along with many of our member schools, submitted public comments on the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking titled "Program Integrity and Institutional Quality: Distance Education, Return of Title IV, HEA Funds, and Federal TRIO Programs." As outlined by the Department of Education, these proposed regulations aim to clarify, update, and consolidate specific provisions related to distance education, the return of Title IV, HEA funds, and the Federal TRIO programs.
The primary concern of AACS was the proposed change that would disallow asynchronous distance education in clock-hour programs for Title IV, HEA purposes. Nearly 300 comments were submitted to the Department, which will need to be reviewed before a final decision on the NPRM proposals is made. AACS will keep members informed as more information becomes available.
Additionally, AACS Executive Director Cecil Kidd was recently asked for comment by The College Fix for an article on asynchronous learning, published yesterday. Kidd notes:
“Cosmetology students represent one of the most diverse learner populations in higher education, and often include working parents and others who depend on flexible asynchronous learning to pursue their postsecondary education." Kidd continues, "We submit that the Department’s proposed change unfairly singles out clock hour programs, and is unsupported by any substantial evidence.”
For more information:
