Expansion of community colleges and state universities. More scholarships for students and a reduced rate of growth of student fees. Student fees at Idaho universities and Lewis-Clark State College have more than doubled in the last decade and in recent years have increased at an average 7.7 percent. After legislatures adjourn without providing adequate funds the universities ask the state Board of Education for another round of fee increases to help close the gap. While Idaho's fees are relatively low compared to other states, they are a significant barrier for students.
Most students borrow heavily and many graduate with extreme debt loads.
Provide sufficient funds for professional-technical programs, community colleges and the universities to allow a moratorium on fee increases for the next fiscal year. This would offer an incentive to complete high school and should help improve the state's 47 percent continuation rate. Funds are available for both the moratorium and the scholarships within the state's existing revenue structure. Express Publishing Inc. All Rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of Express Publishing Inc. is prohibited.