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North Idaho College reports 15% enrollment rebound, warns EWA cut of $446,800 will strain recovery
Summary
North Idaho College told JFAC it posted double-digit enrollment growth after years of decline but faces an ongoing EWA reduction of $446,800 that will undercut capacity-building; NIC also reported recent removal from show-cause to probation status with its regional accreditor.
North Idaho College President Dr. Nick Swayne told the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee that NIC saw a meaningful enrollment turnaround — up roughly 15% in fall 2024 and another increase in spring — even as the State Board of Education formula produces an ongoing enrollment workload adjustment reduction of $446,800 for FY 2026.
Why it matters: NIC leaders said enrollment gains are restoring community-trusted capacity but that the EWA cut amounts to a substantial budgetary bite just as the college seeks to expand nursing, welding and cybersecurity programs that serve regional workforce needs.
Enrollment, EWA and fiscal context: Analyst Kevin Campbell reviewed NIC’s five-year appropriation history and told the committee NIC’s 2024 appropriation was $215,100,000 and that FY 2026 results in an ongoing EWA reduction of $446,800. President Swayne explained that the EWA uses a trailing three-year average, so recent enrollment growth can lag in the formula and result in a near-term budget cut despite…
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