Three Programs Cut Amid Budget Crisis

South Puget Sound Community College is shutting down three beloved programs—baking and pastry arts, culinary arts, and paralegal studies—after a unanimous vote by the college board, citing a $3.4 to $4 million budget shortfall. With personnel costs eating up 83% of the budget and tuition hikes failing to match rising expenses, leadership says these cuts are necessary for survival. Faculty and students protested, emphasizing the programs’ vital role in supporting marginalized communities and offering second chances, noting the food programs alone cost over $600,000 annually. Three faculty members lost their jobs, one retired, and affected students can finish through a teach-out. While one professor found a new culinary role, these programs are now officially gone—marking a painful but pragmatic end for the college. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ab6f5e24b2b2f435