I spent the morning with Idaho Business for Education hearing from our eight college and university presidents. Key takeaways are:

These colleges and universities are working together better than they have in the past. Their recruiters are promoting the idea of going on to higher education as well as promoting their own institutions. If their institution isn’t a fit they promote an institution in Idaho that could help fulfill that student’s desire.

The go on rate has been a constant discussion topic for years. These institutions are promoting the idea of going on to students at a younger age and showing Idaho students a pathway to higher education whether it be a four year university, technical school, or two year college. One important finding is a students decision to go on is largely influenced by their parents. In an effort to help educate parents IBE is teaming up with the federal reserve to implement a program to help educate parents and students on how to go on and why it is important to the student to take the next step. More to come on that program.

Finally, there are some important bills being proposed in the legislature this session that could have dramatic consequences for higher education. One bill in particular is proposing to remove the tax exempt status on properties that are leased by universities and colleges. While this may seem like a good way to reduce some tax stress on property owners, it will have a direct correlation to much higher tuition costs. In a state where many people site the cost of education as a reason they don’t go on, this is something we can’t afford to take away from our educational institutions.