"Recent news stories have reported that the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board recently adopted proposals on financial aid that will adversely affect needy college students," writes Raymund A. Paredes, Texas Commissioner of Higher Education in The Austin American-Statesman. "Not only does the board propose increases for TEXAS Grant which primarily is received by university students, but also for financial aid at community colleges, where the largest number of Texas students begin their college studies. I happen to agree that the academic eligibility criteria for TEXAS Grants should be strengthened, and for several years, I have expressed support for 'need+ merit' approaches to financial aid. Research indicates that the best way to help all students, including the poor and students of color, is to set high academic standards for all and to provide each student the academic support necessary to reach them. I categorically reject arguments that suggest any group of students cannot achieve - or should not be held to - high standards."