Long lines, lots of ambition

Lakewood, WA - At 4:30 a.m. Monday, Carolyn Nartnik and Jennifer Jessie were at Clover Park Technical College hoping to get into their programs. They were not alone and they were not the first in line.

Carolyn Nartnik (left) and Jennifer Jessie arrived at 4:30 a.m. to register. Open registration began Monday, March 1 starting at 7:00 a.m.

Although they knew the wait would be more than three hours, both say they wanted to arrive early to get in and get the classes they need for their chosen programs. "I'm coming to Clover Park to enroll in the Health Unit Coordinator Program," said Carolyn Nartnik (left). "I want to get into my program, so I got here really early."

Both are military spouses and want to get an education before they move again. "I chose to come here because of the Human Services program and the location of the college," said Jennifer Jessie, "We're stationed here for almost two years," Jessie said.

"The demand from individuals who are seeking an opportunity to retrain for their future is unparalleled," said Lori Banaszak, Vice President for Instruction. "Clover Park is doing everything it can to meet this need and yet it is not enough," said Banaszak.

Maryann Dick is coming to Clover Park from WSU. She wants to be closer to home and have smaller class sizes.

Last in line is Maryann Dick, who showed up about 7:00 a.m. She expects to wait for hours before signing up for the Culinary Arts program.

"My sister is a student here in the Medical Assistant program and I decided I needed to be closer to home," said Dick, who recently left Washington State University. "I like smaller class sizes that are more focused," said Dick.

"Every college in the state is facing this situation and it is critical that a solution be found to fund additional training slots and financial assistance for those who are trying to improve their lives. The road to recovery is found through a highly skilled workforce and with appropriate funding the two-year colleges will provide the pathway to a brighter future," Banaszak said.

Back of the line Monday, March 1, 7:15 a.m.

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