NIC ELECTION: Vote for Broschet, Corkill and Zimmerman

After reading “The True Story — North Idaho Accreditation” by Greg McKenzie, I felt compelled to respond to an inaccurate representation concerning accreditation. I have worked on educational accrediting organizations for more than 25 years, as a regional and state representative involved in reviewing accreditation reports and as a part of accrediting teams visiting schools in Idaho and other Western states. Most of this experience was at the secondary level, but the review process and consequences at the post-secondary level are similar.

With this background, I can assure you that when an institution is warned, their accreditation status is very much in danger. Educational institutions are held responsible for meeting established standards and when a school is warned, the concern of the visiting team and the Northwest Commission is significant. This is not a step taken lightly. NIC was found to be out of compliance with eligibility requirements and standards concerning governance, governing board and institutional integrity. It is imperative that the board work together to address these concerns.

I would encourage voting for Tarie Zimmerman, Brad Corkill and Pete Broschet. Their election will help to establish a board that will address the Northwest Commission’s concerns and ensure continued accreditation in the best interests of the NIC students and staff, and the North Idaho community.

CHUCK KINSEY

Rathdrum