What started as an opportunity for high school students to get a jump on college has grown into a coordinated effort across the Treasure Valley and beyond.
College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) OtterBound program continues to gain momentum, with expanded implementation beginning Fall 2025 in schools across the Treasure Valley, including two of the state’s largest districts, Boise and West Ada. The growth is driven by collaboration between CWI Dual Credit staff and district partners committed to student success.
Since its official launch, OtterBound has already enrolled more than 200 students, with an additional 10 to 15 students reaching out each week to express interest in the program.
Designed as an early college on-ramp beginning as early as sophomore year, OtterBound allows students to move beyond individual dual credit courses and into a structured plan toward an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree. Along the way, students gain a better understanding of what college is like, what subjects interest them, and how their education can connect to future goals.
Students who complete the OtterBound pathway can earn 60 or more college credits and earn an associate degree by high school graduation!
Stephen Crumrine, Executive Director of Dual Credit at CWI, shares the program’s recent expansion reflects both student interest and the behind-the-scenes work of staff who help students navigate college systems early.
“OtterBound gives students the chance to experience college in a supported way,” Crumrine said. “They begin to understand what they enjoy, what challenges them, and how their education can align with future goals.”
A core feature of OtterBound is the personalized approach. Students receive advising, structured academic planning, and regular check-ins to help them stay on track. Early registration access allows students to build schedules that align with high school coursework and extracurricular activities, reducing barriers and improving the overall student experience.
The program also places an emphasis on what comes next. Students meet with advisors, explore career interests through the Work-Based Learning Center, and complete a senior-year graduation review to ensure they are prepared to finish strong and move forward into their next chapter with confidence.
District partners have also expressed enthusiasm for the program and its impact on students.
“Partnering with CWI to offer OtterBound is an exciting next step for Capital High School,” said Capital High School Principal, Derek Gardner. “Our students have long benefited from concurrent credit, but this program provides an organized roadmap that empowers them to begin college ahead of the game.”
As OtterBound continues to grow, the focus stays on what matters most: supporting students early and helping college feel attainable long before high school graduation.
