College of Southern Idaho says 20% enrollment surge has strained capacity; requests $475,700 EWA

College of Southern Idaho President Dr. Aldine Fisher told the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee that the college saw a roughly 20% enrollment increase in fall 2024 and is seeking an enrollment workload adjustment of $475,700 in its FY2026 request to hire five instructors and ease wait lists.

The request and the college’s broader capacity needs were presented to JFAC analyst Kevin Campbell of the Legislative Services Office, who opened the presentation with an overview of the college’s base budget and noted the FY2026 request is listed in the legislative budget book. "This morning, I'm presenting you with an overview of the base budget for the College of Southern Idaho, including their FY 20 26 budget request," Campbell said.

Why it matters: CSI officials said the recent enrollment surge — which President Fisher attributed in part to the Idaho Launch program — has stretched instructional capacity, clinical placements and specialized learning spaces. With continuing growth the college warned it risks being unable to sustain class offerings or reduce long…