North Idaho College is navigating significant challenges related to its accreditation status as well as ongoing governance issues. Recent assessments have raised concerns that may impact the institution’s future.
Accreditation Status and Governance Concerns at North Idaho College
North Idaho College has received a report from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) indicating that while progress has been made, ongoing governance issues have created uncertainty regarding the institution’s accreditation status.
In February 2023, the NWCCU placed North Idaho College under a show-cause sanction, the last step before potential revocation of accreditation. The report highlighted multiple concerns, including ongoing lawsuits, high turnover rates, leadership instability, and several no-confidence resolutions directed at the board of trustees.
The college has until April 1, 2025, to address the issues identified by the accreditor, as failure to do so may result in loss of accreditation, which is essential for access to federal financial aid and the institution’s overall sustainability. The NWCCU is set to make a decision in January regarding the college’s current status, evaluating whether sufficient progress has been made.
In a recent evaluation, peer reviewers conducted interviews with students, faculty, and board members over a two-day period. The findings revealed a lack of confidence among stakeholders concerning the permanence of improvements to the board’s governance practices. The evaluators noted that “only a sustained record of good practice can decisively heal the distrust and dysfunction of prior years.”
The challenges confronted by North Idaho College are largely attributed to its board of trustees, which has experienced notable political shifts in recent years. A conservative majority gained control in November 2020, leading to scrutiny concerning allegations of aggressive behavior and actions viewed as detrimental to academic freedom. The dismissal of the college president in early 2021 further exacerbated leadership instability.
Despite efforts to improve, concerns persist within the college community. Reports suggest that the board has not effectively responded to multiple no-confidence votes from faculty and staff. Employees have expressed doubts about the board’s long-term commitment to the institution’s welfare.
North Idaho College has noted some improvements since the last evaluation, including the holding of successful meetings and the adoption of new governance policies. However, evaluators cautioned that recent momentum might not be sustainable, particularly in light of the college’s tumultuous governance history.
Looking ahead, the college aims to implement initiatives designed to enhance employee retention and satisfaction in response to high turnover rates, which have nearly doubled the national average in recent years. Efforts being explored include flexible work options and wage increases to create a more stable workforce.
The outcomes of these initiatives, along with the NWCCU’s forthcoming decision, are expected to be crucial for North Idaho College as it seeks to restore its standing and reputation within the higher education landscape.
(Source: Higher Ed Dive)