ESCANABA – Fewer students are returning to Bay College Monday in Escanaba and Iron Mountain than last year. Aug. 26 is the first day of the fall semester.

Laura Coleman, Bay College president, says the decrease is not unexpected as fewer students are graduating from area high schools.

“We are down a little bit and that is what is happening not only across the state but also across the nation,” Coleman said. “Part of that is there are declining number of students coming out of the high schools. The demographics are the demographics.

Coleman says the economy also appears to be improving which affects enrollment. Despite fewer students, Coleman calls the fall enrollment “solid.”

The fall semester ends Dec. 13.

When students begin classes Monday they may notice that instructors will be using more technology this year in their classrooms. Coleman says more information will be offered online.

“Student today expect technology especially those coming right out of high school. It’s in their blood. they don’t know how to do it any other way,” Coleman said.

She said the use of technology makes it more efficient for students to easily access the information that teachers want them to see.

Students have been finalized class schedules last week and purchased text books. Senior faculty at Bay will wear bright red shirts today to help freshmen find their way around campus as they begin the new school year.