Peninsula College Announces Program Updates Amid Budget Challenges

Published 1:30 am Thursday, May 21, 2026

PORT ANGELES — Peninsula College has announced additional program cuts and cost-saving measures as it works to address ongoing budget challenges facing community and technical colleges across Washington state.

College officials said rising operating costs and long-term state funding issues have contributed to a budget shortfall. Over the past year, the college has reduced its budget by about seven percent through operational cuts, staffing adjustments, reduced discretionary spending, and closure of the Fort Worden campus.

Beginning Fall 2026, Peninsula College will discontinue the Administrative Office Systems, Paralegal, and Multimedia programs. The Automotive Service Technician program will be paused while the college reviews curriculum changes and strategies to improve enrollment and long-term sustainability. The Family Life Education program also will no longer be offered.

“These decisions are incredibly difficult because they affect people, programs, and work our college community cares deeply about,” President Suzy Ames said in a statement, adding the college aims to remain financially stable while continuing to serve students across the North Olympic Peninsula.

Students affected by the changes will receive advising support, teach-out plans, and guidance on transfer or alternative program pathways.

The college noted that the Construction Trades program, previously under review, will continue and remain open for Fall 2026 enrollment with updated curriculum, expanded lab space, and new equipment.

Additional budget-balancing measures include temporary one-year furloughs beginning July 2026 for exempt and classified employees earning $90,000 or more annually.

College leaders said newer programs such as Dental Hygiene, K–8 Teacher Education, and mobile workforce training were developed to address regional workforce shortages and, in some cases, are supported by grants, partnerships, and philanthropic funding.

Peninsula College said general education, workforce training, advising, tutoring, financial aid support, and transfer pathways will remain core priorities as it continues serving students in Clallam and Jefferson counties.