FSCC Announces Spring Enrollment and Credit Hour Growth

February 2, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 29, 2026

 

Contact: Taylor Bailey, Director of Public Relations

620-223-2700, ext. 4600

taylorb@fortscott.edu

 

FSCC Announces Spring Enrollment and Credit Hour Growth

Fort Scott, KS – FSCC is proud to share exciting and encouraging enrollment news for the Spring 2026 semester, news that reflects the hard work, dedication, and collaborative spirit of the college’s administration, faculty, and staff.

 

Spring 2026 enrollment has stabilized closely with Fall 2025 headcount numbers, while credit hour production has increased, a key metric for Kansas community colleges that receive state funding based on credit hours rather than headcount alone.

 

Fall 2025 enrollment stood at 1,227 students, while Spring 2026 enrollment came in at 1,176 students, a difference of just 51 students, a strong retention indicator during a term that historically sees notable declines across higher education.

 

Even more impressive is the growth in credit hour production. Fall 2025 generated 10,595 credit hours, while Spring 2026 has increased to 10,948 credit hours, a gain of 353 credit hours. This type of spring increase over fall totals is rare and represents a significant and positive shift for the college.

 

“This is an anomaly in the best possible way,” said FSCC President Jack Welch. “Spring semesters almost never outperform fall in credit hour production, and this growth speaks volumes about the commitment of our faculty, the effectiveness of our academic programs, and the relentless efforts of our staff to support and retain students.”

 

After several years of enrollment challenges faced by colleges nationwide, this momentum marks an important turning point for Fort Scott Community College. The institution credits strategic scheduling, student-focused support services, and a renewed campus-wide commitment to access, quality, and completion.

 

“This success belongs to our entire campus community,’ said Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Larry Guerrero. “It reflects countless hours of work behind the scenes and a shared belief in our mission to serve students and strengthen our region.”

 

Fort Scott Community College remains focused on building upon this progress as it looks ahead to future semesters with optimism and resolve.