NIC enrollment in Bonners more than triples

For Samantha Garcia, going back to school to become a licensed practical nurse wasn’t an option with two young children. That was until North Idaho College opened an extension center in Bonners Ferry two years ago.

Garcia is among 112 students attending the local campus, where enrollment has more than tripled over the past year.

In addition, the number of credit classes has increased to 15 from five.

For Garcia, having the local campus is a matter of convenience

“I’ve always wanted to work in the medical profession,” said the 24-year-old cashier for Three-Mile restaurant.

“It’s just a characteristic of the growth,” said Christine Callison, coordinator for the NIC center at Bonners Ferry. “More people know we are here. People are feeling the rise in cost of fuel and are looking for local options instead of going to Coeur d’ Alene.”

“The key thing is that for one, we now have all the technology to do interactive classes,” said Callison. “We’re better able to provide a wide selection of classes locally.”

NIC in Coeur d’ Alene posted a 4.4 percent increase in enrollment for fall 2008 with an increase of 206 students from last year’s enrollment of 4,650, bringing the total head count this year to a record 4,856.

“A record number of students continue to enroll at North Idaho College, taking the skills, training and education they’ve gained back into the community as members of our workforce,” said NIC President Priscilla Bell. “Higher numbers at North Idaho College ultimately translate to a stronger local economy. We are proud to fulfill this crucial role in our community.”