WHEREAS, The cost of living in California has risen significantly, resulting in an increased financial strain on students [1] and making it increasingly difficult for students to afford basic necessities, including housing, transportation, and educational materials [2] particularly those who rely on their campus employment as a primary means of financial support;
WHEREAS, Student workers should be compensated fairly for providing essential campus services, and enhanced campus facilities, including administrative support, library assistance, and tutoring [3];
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges strongly recommend an immediate review and adjustment of student wages to ensure they are competitive with current market rates that are sufficient in meeting students’ financial needs, allowing students to focus more on their studies and personal development rather than economic hardship; and
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for the student worker wage to be increased by 23.08% or to a new minimum wage rate of $20.00 per hour and that the Student Senate continue to monitor and advocate for fair wages for all student workers in the future, which should discourage increased attrition and support the retention of workers.
Citations:
[1] https://carolinanewsandreporter.cic.sc.edu/aftereffects-of-inflation-for-college-students/
[2]https://tcu360.com/2023/02/22/inflation-and-high-costs-affecting-college-students/ [3]https://www.insidehighered.com/news/student-success/life-after-college/2024/07/15/promoting-student-employment-campus-build-skills