The Austin Community College District (ACC) Board of Trustees met for its regular meeting on Monday, April 6. Highlights include approving tuition and fees for the 2026-27 academic year, an update on the Theory of Change, and approval of contracts.
Below are highlights from the meeting.
ACC Maintains Tuition & Fees for 13th Consecutive Year
For the 13th straight year, the Board of Trustees has approved maintaining tuition rates for the 2026-27 academic year. In-district students at ACC will continue to pay $67 per credit hour for tuition—with fees, it comes to $85 per credit hour. The out-of-district fee will remain the same at $201 per credit hour.
Theory of Change Design Update: Belonging in the Classroom
The Theory of Change design team for Belonging and Connection in the Classroom shared its new framework with the Board. The team recommends implementing a standardized system of faculty accountability and support to ensure consistency and support across all departments. Key strategies include fostering a campus culture that intentionally honors and invites men, while redesigning courses to better serve adult learners, student parents, and those with accommodations.
The team also aims to bridge the gap for remote students by establishing dedicated community-building and mentorship plans for online learners. By leveraging existing resources—like the Office of Belonging and Purpose—and modernizing faculty evaluations, the College aims to create a holistic environment where academic growth and basic needs are met simultaneously.
Execute a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Tax Equivalency and Contribution Agreement
The Board approved the College administration to move forward on a contract with Ichor Systems Inc for a tax equivalency deal. The agreement means ACC will sign a Non-Opposition Letter to allow Ichor to get the federal Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) status. In exchange, Ichor will pay ACC an annual “contribution” to offset the “negative financial consequence” of the tax exemption.
Series of Contracts Approvals
The Board also approved a couple of contracts.
First, the board approved the execution of a contract with ATTA Elevators. The contract allows administration to move forward with essential elevator maintenance, repairs, and modernization projects across the district.
Plus, a contract with Sunshine Renewable Solutions LLC to install a Rooftop Solar Array System at the Highland Campus South Parking Garage. This project aims to generate renewable energy while securing federal and local rebates. It is expected to be fully operational by December 31, 2027.
A full recording of the Board meeting will be posted on the Board web page at austincc.edu/board.