Pueblo community college enrollment rate increases 8%, largely due to high school students taking classes

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO)-- The President of Pueblo Community College (PCC), Dr. Patty Erjavec, said before the pandemic the college was on a great trajectory for increased enrollment. But when covid hit she said everything fell apart. Despite the challenges the college has faced since the pandemic, Erjavec said her team has really stepped up to engage students, especially from the high schools within the community.

Erjavec said the real increase in enrollment this Fall term has come from the partnerships with the various school districts in the area. She said PCC has been able to capitalize on the opportunities that concurrent enrollment gives students in Pueblo. Erjavec said the tuition is paid for by the school districts. She said books, fees, and transportation are made available to students through grants.

"The real boost has been that we've eliminated all barriers for high school students," said Erjavec.

Erjavec said the amount of students who are seeking degrees has stayed normal.

"Many colleges and universities are seeing declining enrollment with adult learners and traditional students. So to be able to reengage students and keep them in the pipeline, we feel pretty positive about that as well," said Erjavec.

PCC said enrollment for the Spring 2023 term starts on Nov. 2.