Despite the current economic and unemployment crisis that is impacting thousands across the state, local residents are being proactive by going back to school.

And that’s reflected in the number of people showing up at two local community college campuses, armed and ready for spring semester.

According to statistics released from Sampson Community College and James Sprunt Community Collge in Duplin Countyspring registration numbers are on the rise.

SCC’s numbers are the highest they have ever had, college officials say. Over 1,600 students were signed in during their recent registration, up from 1,500 this time last year.

At JSCC in Kenansville, the spring registration increased by a whopping 21 percent over 2009’s registration numbers.

“We are seeing an increase of 6 to 7 percent in our continued education enrollment, and it has been great to see,” said Amy Noel, dean of student services at SCC. “A lot of workers are coming back here for training or to participate in the programs that can advance their careers.”

SCC president Dr. William Aiken is elated by the increased interest in the school’s offerings.

“The college is very pleased to see its enrollment reach its highest record,” he said. “We are pleased to be able to provide services for people, particularly for those who are unemployed who are interested in gaining new skills to further their employment opportunities.”

With the unemployment numbers down by a scant 0.1 percent from October to November in Sampson County, the public seems to be yearning to better their futures and the futures of their families.

“Every time an economic crisis directly impacts people, we see an increase in enrollment,” Noel said. “And each time, Sampson Community College is poised to provide relevant training and programs to hone those skills.”

In fact, Noel said some certificate programs take just one or two semesters, meaning that if someone is looking to change a career, going back to school is the first step.

“We have had a steady incline in registration since 2008,” Noel said.

Dr. Lawrence Rouse, president at JSCC, said students of all ages are taking advantage of the “budget-friendly” costs and the “close-to-home” convenience, in addition to online classes that are available through JSCC.

“Our primary responsibility is to provide quality education to our student community,” Rouse said. “We believe that our increasing student population of new and returning students not only reflects an increasing demand for our educational services, but it also reflects a satisfaction level in our student community. We recognize, however, that our programs and services must continue to expand and improve in order to meet the needs of our students. That is our ongoing mission.”

To reach Doug Clark call 910-592-8137 ext. 123 or send e-mail to sisports@myclintonnc.com.