Colorado lawmakers are scrutinizing the ASCENT program and other dual enrollment initiatives due to rising costs and limited data on outcomes. ASCENT, established in 2009, allows high school students to take college classes for free. However, a recent report highlighted issues such as fragmented program administration and a lack of cohesion. Lawmakers have capped ASCENT’s enrollment to control costs and are seeking more data on the program’s effectiveness. Despite these challenges, educators see value in providing students with college experiences through dual enrollment.

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