Cascadia College has seen a surge in interest for its Foundations of Equity and Inclusion course, prompting partnerships with the King County Public Library and local businesses to train employees in creating equitable workplaces. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance community engagement beyond student recruitment and retention.

However, the college faces significant challenges, particularly in staffing. A year ago, there was an abundance of part-time instructors, but now there are critical shortages, with 200 students waitlisted for English 101. The college is actively seeking qualified instructors, especially those with master's degrees in English or math, to address this gap.

Additionally, Cascadia is grappling with 40 staff vacancies and an expedited hiring process due to high turnover rates, as employees seek better-paying opportunities elsewhere. The college's facility growth is also hindered by ongoing supply chain issues, impacting timely access to necessary resources.

Despite these challenges, the college has reported an increase in enrollment, which has positively affected its financial obligations, including bond payments for a recently constructed parking garage. The college now has more parking than needed, a situation that has improved since the construction of the $30 million facility.

Cascadia College is also preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary with a major event on February 26, inviting community members and local leaders to participate. The college's president expressed gratitude for the support from the city council, highlighting a collaborative spirit that has strengthened over the years.

In a related discussion, the Bothell City Council received an update on the Economic Vitality Plan, emphasizing the importance of small businesses, which constitute 45.8% of the region's economy. The city is working on strategies to enhance business growth, attract new commercial spaces, and support local entrepreneurship. A recent citywide business survey indicated that most local businesses view Bothell as a favorable place to operate and are looking to expand, reflecting a positive economic sentiment in the area.

As both Cascadia College and the city of Bothell navigate these developments, their collaborative efforts aim to foster a thriving community and address the evolving needs of residents and businesses alike.