Economic downturn prompts community college enrollment spike

By Sharon Stevens Education Reporter

KSDK -- The downturn in the economy is leading to an upturn in enrollment at America's community colleges.

Missouri colleges are reporting dramatic new numbers.

When the final numbers are released today, Missouri's largest system, the St. Louis Community College system, expects to post about an eight percent increase.

At Jefferson College in Hillsboro, the enrollment increase will be higher, nearly 13-percent in just one year.

The sign in front of Jefferson College tells part of the story; there's extra parking this year on campus. There's also an expanded class schedule.

The changes are because there lots of new students this year, such as Josh Reando. He was laid off from Chrysler after 12 years and is now looking for a second career.

School administrators say there are 5,800 students enrolled.

Community colleges across the nation are also growing.

For younger students, it's thousands of dollars cheaper than many four-year institutions.

But for many of the older students, the economy is driving them to community colleges in droves.

And officials say like other businesses, Jefferson College has had to make cuts and tighten it's belt to remain fiscally sound.