Note: News Links is transitioning to a weekly publication schedule. The format will continue to feature a curated selection of relevant education-related news coverage and media stories. If you have any questions or feedback, please contact SBCTC Communications. Thank you!
System News | Opinion
Olympic College to pilot Kitsap Transit bus pass for students
All Olympic College students will be able to ride Kitsap Transit buses and local ferries with a free bus
pass during the 2026-27 academic year under a $200,000 grant from the state.
Bainbridge Island Review, June 17, 2026
Skagit Valley College students named World Impact Scholars
Skagit Valley College students Jashpal Samran and Altynay Trofimchuk have been selected as 2026 World Impact
Scholars by Phi Theta Kappa, an international honor society for high-achieving community
college students.
Skagit Valley Herald, June 17, 2026
SPSCC named Aspen Prize finalist for third time
South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) has been named as one of 10 finalists for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence
for the third time. The award is the nation’s signature recognition for community
colleges.
JOLT News, June 15, 2026
Founding director of EvCC ocean research program to retire
...Ardi Kveven, a former public school teacher, opened the Ocean Research College
Academy at Everett Community College in 2004, a two-year program for high school students focused on marine biology research
in Possession Sound.
Everett Herald, June 15, 2026
Clark College trustees award tenure to seven faculty members
The Clark College Board of Trustees has unanimously approved tenure for seven faculty members, recognizing
educators from programs across the college.
The Reflector, June 15, 2026
YVC graduate Yuleyda García starts over in U.S. after immigrating from Venezuela
As Venezuela experienced prolonged socioeconomic and political issues, it became increasingly
difficult for Yuleyda García to stay. The far-reaching challenges extended from her
private life to her career, forcing her to make a change [Yakima Valley College]
Yakima Herald-Republic, June 11, 2026
Whatcom Community College board approves nearly balanced budget
Whatcom Community College approved a nearly balanced budget after a tumultuous year of cuts, consolidations
and layoffs at the college. Whatcom’s budget this year plans for $39.1 million in
revenues and expenses, with about $131,000 in additional reductions coming in the
next year through attrition or deferring hiring...
Cascadia Daily News, June 10, 2026
Higher Education and Politics
The Trump administration says it is cutting student loan interest. Here are some facts and context
The Education Department on Thursday announced a reduction in interest rates for federal
student loans, describing it as part of a plan to make higher education more affordable.
The Associated Press, June 18, 2026
Justice Department to investigate ED’s civil rights cases
The Trump administration has taken its latest step in dismantling the Department of
Education, announcing Tuesday that it will outsource the work of investigating some
civil rights complaints to the Department of Justice.
Inside Higher Ed, June 17, 2026
