UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One) 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 20172019
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from________________to________________
Commission File Number: 001-34272


BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
59-3551629
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

8620 Spectrum Center Blvd.
San Diego, CA 921231811 E. Northrop Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85286
(Address, including zip code, of principal executive offices)

(858) 668-2586
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)


None
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒    No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ☒    No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐Accelerated filer ☒
Non-accelerated filer ☐
(Do not check if a
smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company 
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐    No ☒

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per shareZVOThe Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
The total number of shares of common stock outstanding as of October 20, 2017,25, 2019, was 29,176,487.30,267,821.




BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
FORM 10-Q
INDEX
   
 
 
 
 
 


2


PART I—FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.  Financial Statements.
BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except par value)
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
ASSETS      
Current assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$165,176
 $307,802
$79,145
 $166,307
Restricted cash19,921
 24,533
25,744
 18,619
Investments26,965
 49,434
2,385
 2,068
Accounts receivable, net34,303
 26,457
35,675
 27,015
Prepaid expenses and other current assets24,548
 23,467
24,705
 18,255
Total current assets270,913
 431,693
167,654
 232,264
Property and equipment, net10,894
 12,218
32,995
 16,860
Operating lease assets21,903
 
Goodwill and intangibles, net15,237
 17,419
45,932
 12,441
Other long-term assets5,209
 2,046
2,625
 7,927
Total assets$302,253
 $463,376
$271,109
 $269,492
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
Current liabilities:      
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$69,840
 $77,866
$68,343
 $62,792
Deferred revenue and student deposits61,715
 74,666
54,461
 63,834
Total current liabilities131,555
 152,532
122,804
 126,626
Rent liability8,125
 16,508
23,882
 3,183
Lease financing obligation
 8,634
Other long-term liabilities12,632
 13,630
6,167
 3,435
Total liabilities152,312
 182,670
152,853
 141,878
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 13)
 
Commitments and contingencies (see Note 15)
 
Stockholders' equity:      
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value:      
20,000 shares authorized; zero shares issued and outstanding at both September 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016
 
20,000 shares authorized; zero shares issued and outstanding at both September 30, 2019, and December 31, 2018
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value:      
300,000 shares authorized; 64,794 issued and 29,165 outstanding at September 30, 2017; 64,035 issued and 46,478 outstanding at December 31, 2016648
 641
300,000 shares authorized; 65,636 and 65,289 issued, and 30,268 and 27,168 outstanding, at September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively659
 653
Additional paid-in capital200,859
 195,854
188,717
 205,157
Retained earnings437,503
 421,281
398,195
 429,992
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 (1)
Treasury stock, 35,629 and 17,557 shares at cost at September 30, 2017, and December 31, 2016, respectively(489,069) (337,069)
Treasury stock, 35,368 and 38,121 shares at cost at September 30, 2019, and at December 31, 2018, respectively(469,315) (508,188)
Total stockholders' equity149,941
 280,706
118,256
 127,614
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity$302,253
 $463,376
$271,109
 $269,492
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


3


BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162019 2018 2019 2018
Revenue$119,367
 $136,583
 $373,438
 $407,555
$104,251
 $112,846
 $321,510
 $348,660
Costs and expenses:  
           
Instructional costs and services57,756
 64,095
 181,943
 200,129
51,406
 55,109
 158,432
 166,120
Admissions advisory and marketing43,669
 52,590
 132,133
 156,798
40,838
 41,902
 134,720
 129,971
General and administrative11,441
 11,604
 37,019
 36,709
17,389
 13,731
 55,841
 39,028
Legal settlement expense
 16,752
 
 32,918

 
 
 141
Restructuring and impairment charges8,004
 365
 8,004
 2,766
Restructuring and impairment expense2,467
 1,225
 7,890
 3,795
Total costs and expenses120,870
 145,406
 359,099
 429,320
112,100
 111,967
 356,883
 339,055
Operating income (loss)(1,503) (8,823) 14,339
 (21,765)(7,849) 879
 (35,373) 9,605
Other income, net381
 557
 1,165
 1,892
144
 367
 1,040
 899
Income (loss) before income taxes(1,122) (8,266) 15,504
 (19,873)(7,705) 1,246
 (34,333) 10,504
Income tax expense (benefit)(1,161) 1,211
 (718) (3,622)
Income tax benefit(147) (415) (2,536) (7,547)
Net income (loss)$39
 $(9,477) $16,222
 $(16,251)$(7,558) $1,661
 $(31,797) $18,051
Income (loss) per share:              
Basic$0.00
 $(0.20) $0.49
 $(0.35)$(0.25) $0.06
 $(1.09) $0.67
Diluted$0.00
 $(0.20) $0.47
 $(0.35)$(0.25) $0.06
 $(1.09) $0.66
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding used in computing income (loss) per share:              
Basic29,123
 46,315
 33,333
 46,180
30,263
 27,061
 29,230
 27,131
Diluted29,671
 46,315
 34,193
 46,180
30,263
 27,589
 29,230
 27,532
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


4


BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)Stockholders’ Equity
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2017 2016 2017 2016
Net income (loss)$39
 $(9,477) $16,222
 $(16,251)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax:       
     Unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 (46) 1
 148
Comprehensive income (loss)$39
 $(9,523) $16,223
 $(16,103)
 Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Treasury
Stock
  
 Shares Par Value Total
Balance at December 31, 201764,887
 $649
 $201,755
 $426,356
 $(505,764) $122,996
Adoption of accounting standards (Note 2)
 
 
 (1,000) 
 (1,000)
Stock-based compensation
 
 1,165
 
 
 1,165
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes186
 2
 (707) 
 
 (705)
Net income
 
 
 1,310
 
 1,310
Balance at March 31, 201865,073
 $651
 $202,213
 $426,666
 $(505,764) $123,766
Stock-based compensation
 
 1,160
 
 
 1,160
Stock issued under employee stock purchase plan16
 
 98
 
 
 98
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes20
 
 (48) 
 
 (48)
Stock repurchase
 
 
 
 (2,424) (2,424)
Net income
 
 
 15,080
 
 15,080
Balance at June 30, 201865,109
 $651
 $203,423
 $441,746
 $(508,188) $137,632
Stock-based compensation
 
 1,265
 
 
 1,265
Exercise of stock options122
 2
 453
     455
Net share settlement of stock options
 
 (1,097) 
 
 (1,097)
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes26
 
 (131) 
 
 (131)
Net income
 
 
 1,661
 
 1,661
Balance at September 30, 201865,257
 $653
 $203,913
 $443,407
 $(508,188) $139,785
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.






















5


BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)

 Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive (Loss) Income
 
Treasury
Stock
  
 Shares Par Value Total
Balance at December 31, 201563,407
 $634
 $188,863
 $451,321
 $(99) $(337,069) $303,650
Stock-based compensation
 
 5,679
 
 
 
 5,679
Exercise of stock options185
 2
 140
 
 
 
 142
Stock issued under employee stock purchase plan16
 1
 111
 
 
 
 112
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes275
 2
 (1,843) 
 
 
 (1,841)
Net loss
 
 
 (16,251) 
 
 (16,251)
Unrealized gains on investments, net of tax
 
 
 
 148
 
 148
Balance at September 30, 201663,883
 $639
 $192,950
 $435,070
 $49
 $(337,069) $291,639

 Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive (Loss) Income
 
Treasury
Stock
  
 Shares Par Value Total
Balance at December 31, 201664,035
 $641
 $195,854
 $421,281
 $(1) $(337,069) $280,706
Stock-based compensation
 
 2,834
 
 
 
 2,834
Exercise of stock options479
 4
 3,795
 
 
 
 3,799
Stock issued under employee stock purchase plan15
 
 141
 
 
 
 141
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes265
 3
 (1,765) 
 
 
 (1,762)
Stock repurchase
 
 
 
 
 (152,000) (152,000)
Net income
 
 
 16,222
 
 
 16,222
Unrealized gains on investments, net of tax
 
 
 
 1
 
 1
Balance at September 30, 201764,794
 $648
 $200,859
 $437,503
 $
 $(489,069) $149,941
 Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Treasury
Stock
  
 Shares Par Value Total
Balance at December 31, 201865,289
 $653
 $205,157
 $429,992
 $(508,188) $127,614
Stock-based compensation
 
 1,706
 
 
 1,706
Exercise of stock options6
 1
 59
 
 
 60
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes284
 2
 (757) 
 
 (755)
Net loss
 
 
 (6,642) 
 (6,642)
Balance at March 31, 201965,579
 $656
 $206,165
 $423,350
 $(508,188) $121,983
Stock-based compensation
 
 3,596
 
 
 3,596
Stock issued under employee stock purchase plan29
 
 96
 
 
 96
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes20
 
 (51) 
 
 (51)
Stock issued under acquisition
 3
 (24,513)   38,873
 14,363
Net loss
 
 
 (17,597) 
 (17,597)
Balance at June 30, 201965,628
 $659
 $185,293
 $405,753
 $(469,315) $122,390
Stock-based compensation
 
 3,428
 
 
 3,428
Stock issued under stock incentive plan, net of shares held for taxes8
 
 (4) 
 
 (4)
Net loss
 
 
 (7,558) 
 (7,558)
Balance at September 30, 201965,636
 $659
 $188,717
 $398,195
 $(469,315) $118,256
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


6


BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Nine Months Ended September 30,Nine Months Ended September 30,
2017 20162019 2018
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income (loss)$16,222
 $(16,251)$(31,797) $18,051
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:      
Provision for bad debts24,440
 23,565
10,508
 19,339
Depreciation and amortization6,821
 10,068
7,171
 5,200
Amortization of premium/discount20
 38
Deferred income taxes25
 
67
 54
Stock-based compensation2,834
 5,679
8,730
 3,590
Write-off or impairment of student loans receivable
 7,542
Noncash lease expense14,287
 
Net gain on marketable securities(193) (103)(216) (63)
Loss on termination of leased space5,829
 
Reassessment of lease charges558
 1,864
Loss on disposal or impairment of fixed assets66
 809

 334
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
Accounts receivable(32,286) (29,929)(13,517) (25,418)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets(1,081) (2,802)(306) 1,962
Student loans receivable
 876
Other long-term assets(3,164) 2,607
(336) 2,082
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities(13,920) 5,508
(1,170) (14,743)
Deferred revenue and student deposits(12,952) (13,049)(11,923) (12,034)
Operating lease liabilities(17,377) 
Other liabilities(9,405) (7,490)(2,922) (10,886)
Net cash used in operating activities(16,744) (12,932)(38,243) (10,668)
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Capital expenditures(2,876) (1,562)(26,956) (1,696)
Purchases of investments(83) (20,237)(102) (1,050)
Capitalized costs for intangible assets(438) (649)(454) (700)
Maturities of investments22,725
 14,714
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities19,328
 (7,734)
Cash paid in acquisition, net of cash acquired(19,286) 
Sale of investments
 975
Net cash used in investing activities(46,798) (2,471)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from exercise of stock options3,799
 142
60
 455
Tax withholdings related to net issuance of stock options
 (1,097)
Proceeds from the issuance of stock under employee stock purchase plan141
 112
96
 98
Tax withholdings on issuance of stock awards(1,762) (1,841)(810) (884)
Repurchase of common stock(152,000) 

 (2,424)
Net cash used in financing activities(149,822) (1,587)(654) (3,852)
Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash(147,238) (22,253)(85,695) (16,991)
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period332,335
 306,830
190,584
 205,526
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period$185,097
 $284,577
$104,889
 $188,535
      
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash transactions:      
Purchase of equipment included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities$67
 $
$1,582
 $462
Issuance of common stock for vested restricted stock units$4,520
 $4,696
$2,650
 $2,569
Consideration for acquisition in accounts payable and accrued liabilities$483
 $
Issuance of common stock for acquisitions$14,363
 $
Property and equipment under build-to-suit leases$
 $6,076
   
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash:   
Cash and cash equivalents$79,145
 $163,091
Restricted cash25,744
 19,786
Long-term restricted cash
 5,658
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash$104,889
 $188,535
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


7



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)


1. Nature of Business
Zovio Inc (the “Company”), formerly known as Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”), incorporated in 1999, is a providerDelaware corporation, and is an education technology services company that partners with higher education institutions and employers to deliver innovative, personalized solutions to help learners and leaders achieve their aspirations. One of postsecondary education services. Its wholly-ownedits wholly owned subsidiaries, Ashford University® and University of the RockiesSM, areis a regionally accredited academic institutions,institution, which deliverdelivers programs primarily online. Ashford University offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s programs, and University of the Rockies offers master’s and doctoral programs.
On April 1, 2019, the Company acquired Fullstack Academy, Inc (“Fullstack”) and on April 3, 2019, the Company acquired TutorMe.com, Inc. (“TutorMe”), which became wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company. The operating results of Fullstack and TutorMe subsequent to the acquisition dates have been included in the Company's condensed consolidated results of operations. For further information regarding the acquisitions, refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation
The condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Bridgepoint Education, Inc.the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Unaudited Interim Financial Information
The condensed consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, these financial statements do not include all of the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete annual financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016,2018, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”(“SEC”) on March 7, 2017.12, 2019. In the opinion of management, the condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary to present a fair statement of the Company’s condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of and for the periods presented.
Operating results for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year. The year-end condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP for complete annual financial statements.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
ReclassificationsComprehensive Income (Loss)
Certain reclassifications have been made toThe Company has no components of other comprehensive income (loss), and therefore, comprehensive income (loss) equals net income (loss).
Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets
The Company tests goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment annually in the prior financial statements to conform tofourth quarter of each fiscal year, or more frequently if events and circumstances warrant. To evaluate the current year presentation. During 2016,impairment of goodwill, the Company adopted Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-18, Statementfirst assesses qualitative factors, such as deterioration in general economic conditions or negative company financial performance, to determine whether it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of Cash Flows (Topic 230) and reclassified certain restricted cash amounts fora reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. To evaluate the period ended September 30, 2016 withinimpairment of the condensed consolidated statementsindefinite-lived intangible assets, the Company assesses the fair value of cash flows. These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported results of operations or retained earnings. The following table provides a reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheetsassets to the amounts shown in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
 As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
Cash and cash equivalents$165,176
 $307,802
Restricted cash19,921
 24,533
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash$185,097
 $332,335
determine


8



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

whether they were greater or less than the carrying values. Determining the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible asset is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions are inherently uncertain and may include such items as growth rates used to calculate projected future cash flows, risk-adjusted discount rates, future economic and market conditions, and a determination of appropriate market comparables.
The Company has reassessed its reporting units in 2019, noting that it has three distinct reporting units including i) Zovio which includes Ashford, ii) Fullstack and iii) TutorMe. During the third quarter of 2019, the Company's qualitative assessment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets under ASC 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other, indicated triggering events in its Zovio reporting unit. There were no impairment indicators in the Fullstack or TutorMe reporting units. The impairment indicator for Zovio included a sustained declining stock price, which indicated the fair value of the Zovio reporting unit was potentially less than the carrying amount. Consequently, the Company then performed Step 1 of the impairment test and assessed the fair value of that reporting unit and determined that it was less than its carrying value.
Preliminary analysis indicated potential impairment of the goodwill within the Zovio reporting unit. However, due to the time and effort required to determine the implied fair value of goodwill (i.e. Step 2 of the impairment assessment), the analysis is not complete at this time. As of September 30, 2019, Zovio’s reporting unit carrying value of goodwill is $0.7 million and its carrying value of other indefinite-lived intangible assets is $1.4 million. The Company's valuation to determine the amount of impairment will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2019.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
The Company assesses potential impairment to its long-lived assets when there is evidence that events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recorded if the carrying amount of the long-lived asset is not recoverable. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. Any required impairment loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds fair value and is recorded as a reduction in the carrying value of the related asset and an expense to operating results.
During the third quarter of 2019, the Company's qualitative assessment of long-lived assets under ASC 360, Property and Equipment, indicated impairment indicators. The Company then performed an undiscounted cash flow analysis, noting that the related assets were recoverable. As such, no impairment in the Company’s long-lived assets is deemed necessary as of September 30, 2019.
Leases
In accordance with Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842) (“ASC 842”), leases are evaluated and classified as either operating or finance leases. The Company does not have any finance leases. The Company’s operating leases are included in operating lease assets, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, and noncurrent lease liabilities on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Operating lease assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at commencement date. As most of the Company’s leases do not provide an implicit rate, the Company uses its estimated incremental borrowing rate based on information available at the date of adoption in calculating the present value of its existing lease payments. The incremental borrowing rate is determined using the U.S. Treasury rate adjusted to account for the Company’s credit rating and the collateralized nature of operating leases. The operating lease asset also includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives and initial direct costs incurred. The Company’s lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line method over the term of the lease.
Leased property and equipment meeting certain criteria are capitalized as finance lease assets, and the present value of the related lease payments is recognized as a finance lease liability on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Amortization of capitalized leased assets is computed on the straight-line method over the term of the lease or the life of the related asset, whichever is shorter.


9



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Business Combinations
The Company uses the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. This method requires the use of significant estimates, assumptions and judgments in the determination of the estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in order to properly allocate the purchase price at the acquisition date. The estimates, assumptions and judgments are based in part on historical experience, industry data, information obtained from the management of the acquired companies and assistance from independent third-party appraisal firms. Examples of critical estimates include assigning values to the acquired identifiable intangible assets and valuing contingent consideration and earnout liabilities. For further information regarding the acquisitions, refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In May 2014,August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”(“FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update 2018-15 (“ASU 2014-09,2018-15”), Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)Customer’s Accounting for Implementation Costs Incurred in a Cloud Computing Arrangement That Is a Service Contract, which supersedesamends ASC 350-40 to address a customer’s accounting for implementation costs incurred in a cloud computing arrangement (“CCA”) that is a service contract. The amendments in ASU 2018-15 align the revenue recognition requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 605, Revenue Recognition. This literaturea hosting arrangement that is based ona service contract with the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchangerequirements for those goods or services. The accounting guidance also requires additional disclosure regarding the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized fromcapitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain or fulfill a contract.internal-use software. Specifically, ASU 2014-09 can be adopted using one of two retrospective application methods. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14, Deferral of the Effective Date, which deferred the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year,2018-15 amends ASC 350 to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The FASB subsequently issued various updates affecting the guidance in ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The effective dates and transition requirements for each of the following updates are the same as those described for ASU 2014-09 noted above. The Company plans to adopt ASU 2014-09 and all its related topics in the first quarter of 2018 and currently expects to use the modified retrospective application method. During the first three quarters of 2017, the Company continued to progressinclude in its evaluationscope implementation costs of the impact on accounting policies and internal processes and controls the new standard may have on its revenue streams. During the current quarter, the Company neared completion of its technical accounting analysis for all contracts. Further, it commenced efforts in quantifying the impact of anticipated model changes, drafting enhanced disclosures, and designing the related changes in processes and internal controls. Under Topic 605, tuition revenues are recognized pro-rata over the applicable period of instruction, which the Company believes is consistent with the revenue recognition method required by the new standard. Also under Topic 605, the Company recognizes revenue upon the receipt of cash in situations where collectibility is not reasonably assured. This accounting treatment is not allowed under Topic 606 and will require changes to be made. Further, the Company will be required to expand its current disclosures to be in compliance with Topic 606. As the Company completes its evaluation, additional impacts may be identified. The Company has not finalized its quantification efforts, however, the transition to Topic 606 could have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). Under the new guidance, lessees will be required to recognize the following for all leases (with the exception of short-term leases) at the lease commencement date: (i) a lease liability, whichCCA that is a lessee’s obligation to make lease payments arising fromservice contract and clarifies that a lease, measured on a discounted basis; and (ii) a right-of-use asset, which is an asset that represents the lessee’s right to use, or control the use of, a specified asset for the lease term. Under the new guidance, lessor accounting is largely unchanged. The new lease guidance simplifies the accounting for sale and leaseback transactions primarily because lessees must recognize lease assets and lease liabilities. Lessees will no longer be provided with a source of off-balance sheet financing. Public companiescustomer should apply the amendmentsASC 350-40 to determine which implementation costs should be capitalized in ASU 2016-02 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early applicationa CCA that is permitted. Lessees (for capitalconsidered a service contract and operating leases) and lessors (for sales-type, direct financing and operating leases) must apply a modified retrospective transition approach for leases existing at, or entered into after, the beginning of the earliest comparative period presented in the financial statements. The modified retrospective approach would not require any transition accounting for leases that expired before the earliest comparative period presented. Lessees and lessors may not apply a full retrospective transition approach. The Company continueswhich costs to evaluate the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. The update includes multiple provisions intended to simplify various aspects of the accounting for share-based payments. The update was aimed at reducing the cost and complexity of the accounting for share-based payments. ASU 2016-09 becameexpense. This guidance is effective for public companies for fiscal years, and interim fiscal periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years.2019; early adoption is permitted. Entities are permitted to apply a retrospective or a prospective transition approach to adopt the guidance.  The Company early adopted this update as of January 1, 2017.ASU 2018-15 during the period ended March 31, 2019, on a prospective basis. The adoption of ASU 2016-092018-15 did not have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
InThe Company adopted ASU 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842), as of January 2017,1, 2019, using the FASB issued ASU 2017-04,modified retrospective approach. The Company elected the ‘comparatives under ASC 840 option’ as a transitional practical expedient, which allows the Company to initially apply the new lease requirements at the effective date and recognize a cumulative effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. It also allows the Company to report comparative periods in the financial statements under previous GAAP under ASC 840, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill ImpairmentLeases (“ASC 840”). The update simplifiesCompany also elected the measurement‘package of goodwill by eliminating Step 2practical expedients’ permitted under the transition guidance, which allowed the Company to (i) carry forward the historical lease classification, (ii) forgo reassessment of whether any expired or existing contracts contain leases, and (iii) forgo reassessment of whether any previously unamortized initial direct costs continue to meet the definition of initial direct costs under ASC 842. The Company did not, however, elect the ‘hindsight’ practical expedient to reassess the lease term for existing leases. Additionally, the Company does not have land easements, therefore, practical expedients pertaining to land easements are not applicable to the Company.
For the accounting policy practical expedients, the Company elected the short-term lease exemption, under which any lease less than 12 months is excluded from recognition on the balance sheet. The Company elected not to recognize right of use assets and lease liabilities for short term leases, which has a lease term of 12 months or less and does not include an option to purchase the underlying asset that the Company is reasonably certain to exercise. Additionally, the Company elected the non-separation of lease and non-lease components, and as a result, the Company does not need to account for lease components (e.g., fixed payments including rent) separately from the goodwill impairment test.non-lease components (e.g., common-area maintenance costs).
Upon adoption of ASC 842, the Company recorded right-of-use assets of approximately $25.2 million, with corresponding operating lease liabilities of approximately $31.8 million, respectively, with an offset to accounts payable and accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities of approximately $8.4 million to eliminate accrued rent and an offset to prepaid and other current assets of $1.7 million on the consolidated balance sheet as of January 1, 2019. The annual or interim goodwill impairment test is performed by comparingCompany also derecognized an existing construction-in-process of approximately $8.6 million, with a corresponding debt obligation of the fair value ofsame amount for an asset under construction in build-to-suit lease arrangements. However, when the Company completed the related build-to-suit construction in April 2019, the Company recognized a reporting unit withright-of-use asset and lease liability on its carrying amount. An impairment charge should be recognizedbalance sheet for the amount by which the carrying amount exceeds theassociated lease.


910



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

reporting unit’s fair value. There was no adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings upon adoption of the new standard given the nature of the impacts and the other transition practical expedients elected by the Company. Adoption of the standard impacted the Company’s previously reported results on January 1, 2019, as follows (in thousands):
 Closing balance at December 31, 2018 Adjustments due to ASC 842 Opening balance at January 1, 2019
Assets     
Prepaid and other current assets$18,255
 $(1,745) $16,510
Property and equipment, net$16,860
 $(8,634) $8,226
Operating lease assets (1) (2)
$
 $25,165
 $25,165
Liabilities and stockholder’s equity     
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$62,792
 $13,177
 $75,969
Noncurrent operating lease liabilities (3)
$3,183
 $10,243
 $13,426
Lease financing obligation$8,634
 $(8,634) $
(1)
Represents the reclassification of prepaid rent to operating lease assets
(2)
Represents capitalization of operating lease assets
(3)
Represents recognition of operating lease liabilities; Previously disclosed as rent liability for the portion related to accrued rent.

The standard did not materially impact the Company’s consolidated net earnings and had no material impact on the condensed consolidated statement of cash flows. For further information regarding leases, refer to Note 10, “Lease Obligations” to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
In June 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. The update also eliminatesis intended to improve financial reporting by requiring timelier recording of credit losses on loans and other financial instruments held by financial institutions and other organizations. The update requires the requirementsmeasurement of all expected credit losses for anyfinancial assets held at the reporting unit with a zero or negative carrying amountdate based on historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Organizations will now use forward-looking information to perform a qualitative assessment and, if it fails that qualitative test, to perform Step 2better inform their credit loss estimates. Many of the goodwill impairment test. An entityloss estimation techniques applied today will still hasbe permitted, although the optioninputs to performthose techniques will change to reflect the qualitative assessment for a reporting unitfull amount of expected credit losses. Organizations will continue to use judgment to determine if the quantitative impairment testwhich loss estimation method is necessary.appropriate for their circumstances. The update should be applied on a prospective basis. For public companies,requires enhanced disclosures to help investors and other financial statement users better understand significant estimates and judgments used in estimating credit losses, as well as the credit quality and underwriting standards of an organization’s portfolio. These disclosures include qualitative and quantitative requirements that provide additional information about the amounts recorded in the financial statements. The update is effective for any annual or interim goodwill impairment tests inSEC filers for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company early adopted ASU 2017-04 as of January 1, 2017, and there was no impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.
In May 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting. The update provides clarity and reduces diversity in practice regarding the modification of the terms and conditions of a share-based payment award. The amendments in ASU 2017-09 include guidance on determining which changes to the terms and conditions of share-based payment awards require an entity to apply modification accounting under Topic 718. The amendments are effective for all entities for annual periods, and2019, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2017.fiscal years. The Company will adopt this standard on January 1, 2020 and does not believe that the adoption of ASU 2017-092016-13 will have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements.


11



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

3. RestructuringBusiness Combinations
Acquisition of Fullstack Academy, Inc.
On April 1, 2019, the Company acquired Fullstack, a coding academy headquartered in New York, by acquiring all of its outstanding shares, pursuant to an Agreement and Impairment ChargesPlan of Reorganization (the “Fullstack Merger Agreement”). As of March 31, 2019, Fullstack had a carrying value of approximately $7.1 million of assets, excluding goodwill. At the closing of the Fullstack acquisition, the equityholders of Fullstack received consideration consisting of $17.5 million in cash (less purchase price adjustments of approximately $2.0 million, plus third-party expenses of approximately $2.0 million), and an aggregate of approximately 2,443,260 shares of the Company’s common stock, subject to escrow adjustments. Additionally, under the Fullstack Merger Agreement, the equityholders of Fullstack will be entitled to receive up to 2,250,000 contingent shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Fullstack Contingent Consideration”). The Fullstack Merger Agreement contains an employee incentive retention pool of up to $5.0 million in cash, payable at times over a two-year period.
The Company has implemented various restructuring plans to better align its resources with its business strategyassets and liabilities of Fullstack were recorded on the related chargesCompany’s condensed consolidated balance sheets at their preliminary estimated fair values as of April 1, 2019, the acquisition date. Fullstack’s results of operations are recordedincluded in the restructuring and impairment charges line item on the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) from that date. Fullstack recognized revenue of $3.3 million, had an operating loss of $3.0 million, and net loss of $3.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, the Company recorded acquisition-related expenses of $4.1 million, in general and administrative on the condensed consolidated statement of income (loss), associated with the Fullstack acquisition. The Company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting.
The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price, as well as the preliminary allocation of the purchase price relating to the assets and liabilities purchased (in thousands):
Estimated cash consideration for acquired assets$17,540
Estimated fair value of equity12,336
Preliminary fair value of contingent consideration payable3,250
Total estimated purchase price$33,126
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation: 
Cash and cash equivalents$585
Accounts receivable5,604
Prepaid and other assets665
Property and equipment167
Operating lease assets1,297
Intangible assets11,605
Other long-term assets20
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities(496)
Deferred revenue(2,350)
Long-term liabilities(1,297)
Total identifiable net assets acquired$15,800
Deferred tax liability(2,165)
Goodwill19,491
Total estimated purchase consideration$33,126
The fair value of the consideration to be paid exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, resulting in goodwill being recorded. Goodwill arising from the acquisition consists largely of future performance expected to be generated from new university and student relationships. None of the goodwill recognized is expected to be deductible for


12



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

income tax purposes. The above purchase price and purchase price allocation are preliminary and subject to future revision as the acquired assets and liabilities assumed are dependent upon the finalization of the related valuations. The fair values assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed for Fullstack are based upon managements best estimates and assumptions as of the reporting date and are considered preliminary pending finalization of the valuations pertaining to tax liabilities assumed, including the calculation of deferred tax assets and liabilities.
The fair value of the common shares issued as part of the consideration paid was determined on the basis of the closing market price of the Company’s shares on the acquisition date, and also incorporated a discount for lack of marketability rates for various holding periods.
The Fullstack Contingent Consideration will become issuable, subject to the terms and conditions of the Fullstack Merger Agreement. Of the total contingent 2,250,000 shares, (i) 1,250,000 are based upon final determination of the achievement of certain employee retention requirements and is being expensed over the retention period, (ii) 500,000 shares are based upon revenue performance in 2019 and 2020, earned on a sliding scale, in the event that the revenues for Fullstack are between $25.0 million and $35.0 million, and (iii) 500,000 shares are based upon contract performance milestones in 2019 and 2020, earned on a sliding scale, in the event that Fullstack obtains between 4 and 8 new university contracts. The fair value of the performance based Fullstack Contingent Consideration arrangements was estimated by applying a Monte Carlo simulation, based upon the result of forecast information. These measures are based upon significant inputs that are not observable by the market, and are therefore deemed to be Level 3 inputs. At each subsequent reporting date, the Company will remeasure the contingent consideration and recognize any changes in value, if necessary. If the probability of achieving the performance target significantly changes from what was initially anticipated, the change could have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements in the period recognized. No changes in the value of contingent consideration were necessary for the quarter ended September 30, 2019.
Acquisition of TutorMe.com, Inc.
On April 3, 2019, the Company acquired TutorMe, a provider of on-demand tutoring and online courses, headquartered in California, by acquiring all of its outstanding shares, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the “TutorMe Merger Agreement”). DuringAs of March 31, 2019, TutorMe had a carrying value of approximately $0.6 million of assets, excluding goodwill. At the closing of the TutorMe acquisition, in exchange for all outstanding shares of TutorMe capital stock and other rights to acquire or receive capital stock of TutorMe, the Company (i) paid a total of approximately $2.8 million in cash, subject to certain purchase price adjustments, (ii) issued a total of 309,852 shares of the Company’s common stock, and (iii) assumed all issued and outstanding options of TutorMe (the “Assumed Options”), of which a total of 231,406 shares of the Company’s common stock are underlying the Assumed Options that are subject to certain time-based vesting requirements and a total of 79,199 shares of the Company’s common stock are underlying the Assumed Options that are subject to certain performance-based vesting requirements. In addition, as part of the transactions contemplated by the TutorMe Merger Agreement, the Company (x) paid a total of approximately $1.2 million in cash to certain service providers of TutorMe as a transaction bonus and (y) issued a total of 293,621 Performance Stock Units (“PSUs”) to certain continuing service providers of TutorMe pursuant to the Company’s 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (as amended) and a restricted stock unit agreement.
The assets and liabilities of TutorMe were recorded on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets at their preliminary estimated fair values as of April 3, 2019, the acquisition date. TutorMe’s results of operations are included in the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) from that date. TutorMe recognized revenue of $0.2 million, had an operating loss of $0.5 million, and net loss of $0.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, the Company recorded acquisition-related expenses of $2.6 million, in general and administrative on the condensed consolidated statement of income (loss), associated with the TutorMe Acquisition. The Company accounts for business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting.


13



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table summarizes the preliminary purchase price, as well as the preliminary allocation of the purchase price relating to the assets and liabilities purchased (in thousands):
Estimated cash consideration for acquired assets$3,028
Estimated fair value of equity2,026
Total estimated purchase price$5,054
Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation: 
Cash and cash equivalents$214
Accounts receivable46
Intangible assets1,730
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities(35)
Deferred revenue(200)
Long-term liabilities(3)
Total identifiable net assets acquired$1,752
Deferred tax liability(260)
Goodwill3,562
Total estimated purchase consideration$5,054
The fair value of the consideration to be paid exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed, resulting in goodwill being recorded. Goodwill arising from the acquisition consists largely of future performance expected to be generated from new university and student relationships, as well as the developed technology. None of the goodwill recognized is expected to be deductible for income tax purposes. The above purchase price and purchase price allocation are preliminary and subject to future revision as the acquired assets and liabilities assumed are dependent upon the finalization of the related valuations. The fair values assigned to assets acquired and liabilities assumed for TutorMe are based upon managements best estimates and assumptions as of the reporting date, and are considered preliminary pending finalization of the valuations pertaining to tax liabilities assumed, including the calculation of deferred tax assets and liabilities.
The fair value of equity includes the common shares issued as part of the consideration paid was determined on the basis of the closing market price of the Company’s shares on the acquisition date, which also incorporated a discount for lack of marketability rates for various holding periods.
4. Revenue Recognition
Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services are transferred to the Company’s customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. Determining whether a valid customer contract exists includes an assessment of whether amounts due under the contract are collectible. The Company performs this assessment at the beginning of every contract and subsequently thereafter if new information indicates there has been a significant change in facts and circumstances.
The Company’s contracts with customers generally include multiple performance obligations, which it identifies by assessing whether each good and service promised in the contract is distinct. For each performance obligation, the Company allocates the transaction price, including fixed and variable consideration, on the basis of the relative standalone selling prices of each good and service in the contract, which is determined using observable prices.


14



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table presents the Company’s net revenue disaggregated based on the revenue source (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Tuition revenue, net$95,043
 $102,352
 $291,729
 $317,353
Digital materials revenue, net5,890
 6,284
 18,947
 18,951
Technology fee revenue, net2,856
 3,777
 9,381
 10,861
Other revenue, net (1)
462
 433
 1,453
 1,495
Total revenue, net$104,251
 $112,846
 $321,510
 $348,660
(1) Primarily consists of revenues generated from services such as graduation fees, transcript fees, and other miscellaneous services.

The following table presents the Company’s net revenue disaggregated based on the timing of revenue recognition (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Over time, over period of instruction$85,110
 $96,735
 $264,555
 $301,905
Over time, full tuition grant (1)
13,599
 9,986
 38,908
 27,825
Point in time (2)
5,542
 6,125
 18,047
 18,930
Total revenue, net$104,251
 $112,846
 $321,510
 $348,660
(1)Represents revenue generated from the FTG program.
(2)Represents revenue generated from digital textbooks and other miscellaneous fees.

The Company operates under one reportable segment. The Company generates the majority of its revenue from tuition, technology fees, and digital materials related to students whose primary funding source is governmental funding. Tuition represents amounts charged for course instruction, and technology fees represent amounts charged for the students’ use of the technology platform on which course instruction is delivered. Digital materials fees represent amounts charged for the digital textbooks that accompany the majority of courses taught at Ashford University. With the exception of students attending courses within the three-week conditional admission, the majority of tuition and technology fees are recognized as revenue as control of the services is transferred to the student, which occurs over the applicable period of instruction. Similarly, the majority of digital materials fees are recognized as revenue when control of the product has been transferred to the student, which occurs when the student is granted unrestricted access to the digital textbook, generally, on the first day of the course. Revenue generated from students within the conditional admission period is deferred and recognized when the student matriculates into Ashford University, which occurs in the fourth week of the course.
Ashford University’s online students generally enroll in a program that encompasses a series of five to six-week courses that are taken consecutively over the length of the program. With the exception of those students under conditional admission and students enrolled under the FTG program, online students are billed on a payment period basis on the first day of a course. Students under conditional admission are billed for the payment period upon matriculation.
If a student's attendance in a class precedes the receipt of cash from the student's source of funding, the Company establishes an account receivable and corresponding deferred revenue in the amount of the tuition due for that payment period. Cash received either directly from the student or from the student's source of funding reduces the balance of accounts receivable due from the student. Financial aid from sources such as the federal government's Title IV programs pertains to the online student's award year and is generally divided into two disbursement periods. As such, each disbursement period may contain funding for up to four courses. Financial aid disbursements are typically received during the online student's attendance in the first or second course. Since the majority of disbursements cover more courses than for which a student is currently enrolled,


15



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

the amount received in excess effectively represents a prepayment from the online student for up to four courses. At the end of each accounting period, the deferred revenue and related account receivable balances are reduced to present amounts attributable to the current course.
In certain cases, Ashford University provides scholarships to students who qualify under various programs. These scholarships are recognized as direct reductions of revenue consistent with the timing of recognition associated with the related performance obligations. Also, for some customers, we do not expect to collect 100% of the consideration to which we are contractually entitled and, as a result, those customers may receive discounts or price adjustments that, based on historical Company practice, represent implied price concessions and are accounted for as variable consideration. The majority of these price concessions relate to amounts charged to students for goods and services, which management has determined will not be covered by the student’s primary funding source (generally, government aid) and, as a result, the student will become directly financially responsible for them. The reduction in the transaction price that results from this estimate of variable consideration reflects the amount the Company does not expect to be entitled to in exchange for the goods and services it will transfer to the students, as determined using historical experience and current factors, and includes performing a constraint analysis. These estimates of variable consideration are recorded as direct reductions of revenue consistent with the timing of recognition associated with the related performance obligation.
A portion of tuition revenue, technology fee revenue, and digital materials revenue is generated from contracts with students enrolled under the FTG program, which is a 12-month grant that, when combined with a corporate partner’s annual tuition assistance program, enables eligible students to earn their degree without incurring student loan debt. Students enrolled under this program are eligible to take up to ten undergraduate or eight graduate courses per 12-month grant period and must first utilize 100% of the funds awarded under their employer’s annual tuition assistance program before they can be awarded the FTG grant. The grants awarded by Ashford University under the FTG program are considered a material right, and, as such, the Company records a contract liability for a portion of the consideration received or due under these contracts. The contract liability is recorded in deferred revenue and student deposits on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets, and further discussed in the deferred revenue section below. The standalone selling price of the material right is determined based on the observable standalone selling price of the courses. The transaction price in each FTG contract is allocated to this material right on a relative standalone selling price basis. The contract liability is recognized as revenue at the earlier of satisfaction of the future obligation or its expiration. Billing of products and services transferred under an FTG student contract generally occurs after the conclusion of a course. There are no material differences between the timing of the products and services transferred and the payment terms.
Deferred Revenue
Deferred revenue consists of cash payments that are received or due in advance of the Company’s performance as well as deferrals associated with certain contracts that include a material right.
Below are the opening and closing balances of deferred revenue from the Company’s contracts with customers (in thousands):
 Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018
Deferred revenue opening balance, January 1$21,768
 $22,001
Deferred revenue closing balance, September 3022,549
 23,833
Increase (Decrease)$781
 $1,832
For further information on deferred revenue and student deposits, refer to Note 8, “Other Significant Balance Sheet Accounts - Deferred Revenue and Student Deposits” and for further information on receivables, refer to Note 7, “Accounts Receivable, Net” within the condensed consolidated financial statements.
For the majority of the Company’s customers, payment for products and services is due at the beginning of each course. Under special circumstances, some customers may be offered non-interest bearing payment plan arrangements that can extend


16



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

for up to a maximum of three years. These payment plan arrangements give rise to significant financing components. However, since the Company historically collects substantially all of the consideration to which it expects to be entitled under such payment plans within one year or less, the impact of these significant financing components is not material to any period presented.
The difference between the opening and closing balances of deferred revenue primarily results from the timing difference between the Company’s performance and the customer’s payment. For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, the Company recognized $21.8 million of revenue that was included in the deferred revenue balance as of January 1, 2019. For the nine months ended September 30, 2018, the Company recognized $21.9 million of revenue that was included in the deferred revenue balance as of January 1, 2018. Amounts reported in the closing balance of deferred revenue are expected to be recognized as revenue within the next 12 months.
5. Restructuring and Impairment Expense
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, the Company recognized $8.0$2.5 million and $7.9 million, respectively, asof restructuring charges, whereas forand impairment expense. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 these charges were $0.4 million and $2.8 million, respectively.
During the third quarter of 2017, the Company executed a strategic reorganization resulting in reductions in force. The reorganization event was part of the Company’s overall reassessment of resources based upon benchmarking activities with competitors in the Company’s industry. As a result, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2018, the Company recognized $2.2$1.2 million asand $3.8 million, respectively, of restructuring and impairment expense. These restructuring and impairment charges relating to severance costs for wages and benefits. There were no such charges during the three months ended September 30, 2016. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the Company recognized $2.2 million as restructuring charges relating to severance costs for wages and benefits. The Company anticipates these costs will be paid out by the endcomprised of the fourth quarter of 2017 from existing cash on hand.components described below.
The Company had previously vacated or consolidated properties in San Diego and Denver, and subsequently reassessed its obligations on non-cancelable leases. The fair value estimate of these non-cancelable leases is based on the contractual lease costs over the remaining term, partially offset by estimated future sublease rental income. The estimated rental income considers subleasesIn addition, the Company has executed or expects to execute, current commercial real estate market data and conditions, and comparable transaction data and qualitative factors specific to the related facilities. As of September 30, 2017, the Company was unable to secure subleases for certain ofrelocated its headquarters from San Diego, properties. As such, the Company concluded that the amount of expected future cash flows from sublease income associated with pre-existing restructuring liabilities have changed.California to Chandler, Arizona. As a result the Company recorded an incremental restructuring charge. During each of these lease reassessments and relocation, during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019 the Company recognized $5.8expense of approximately $1.3 million as restructuring charges relating to lease exit costs.and $1.8 million, respectively. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, the Company recorded $0.5recognized expense of approximately $0.6 million and $0.7$1.9 million, respectively, as restructuring charges relating to lease exit and other costs, due to the reassessment of estimates relating to the closure of the Ashford Clinton Campus.respectively.
The Company closed Ashford University’s residential campus in Clinton, Iowa during the second half of 2016. With this closure, ground-based Ashford University students were provided opportunities to continue to pursue their degrees as reflected in their respective student transfer agreements. The Company previously recorded restructuring charges relating to future cash expenditures for student transfer agreements. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017, no amounts were added2019, the Company recognized $1.2 million and $6.2 million, respectively, as restructuring and impairment expense relating to severance costs for wages and benefits. There is an additional $0.1 million of related costs that will be recognized in the remainder of 2019, relating to employees that are required to render service. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, the Company recognized $0.9 million and $1.9 million, respectively, as restructuring and impairment expense relating to severance costs for wages and benefits, due to the amount previously recorded.Company’s execution of a strategic reorganization resulting in reductions in force. The reorganization was part of the Company’s overall reassessment of resources based upon benchmarking activities with competitors in the Company’s industry.
For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, the Company recognized a credit of approximately $32,000, and $0.2 million respectively, as a reversal to restructuring and impairment, relating to the closure of a component of the Company's business, which was originally recorded in the fourth quarter of 2018. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, the Company recognized a credit of $0.3 million, respectively, as a reversal to restructuring and impairment, relating to student transfer agreements.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, as a result of the Company vacating certain leased space, the Company retired $0.3 million of assets. There were no such charges during the nine months ended September 30, 2019.


1017



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

The following table summarizes the amounts recorded in the restructuring and impairment charges line item on the Company’s condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) for each of the periods presented (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Asset impairment$
 $
 $
 $325
Student transfer agreement costs (credit)(32) (268) (171) (268)
Severance costs1,220
 855
 6,231
 1,874
Lease exit and other costs1,279
 638
 1,830
 1,864
Total restructuring and impairment expense$2,467
 $1,225
 $7,890
 $3,795
The following table summarizes the changes in the Company's restructuring and impairment liability by type during the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 (in thousands):
 Student Transfer Agreement Costs Severance Costs Lease Exit and Other Costs Total
Balance at December 31, 2016$1,592
 $567
 $18,457
 $20,616
Restructuring and impairment charges
 2,175
 5,829
 8,004
Payments(867) (1,457) (9,856) (12,180)
Balance at September 30, 2017$725
 $1,285
 $14,430
 $16,440
 Student Transfer Agreement Costs Severance Costs Lease Exit and Other Costs Total
Balance at December 31, 2018$1,503
 $267
 $2,864
 $4,634
Restructuring and impairment expense (credit)(171) 6,231
 1,830
 7,890
Payments and adjustments(22) (5,606) (3,377) (9,005)
Balance at September 30, 2019$1,310
 $892
 $1,317
 $3,519
The restructuring liability amounts are recorded within either the (i) accounts payable and accrued liabilities account, (ii) rentlease liability account or (iii) other long-term liabilities account on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.
4. Investments6. Fair Value Measurements
The following tables summarize the fair value information for investments as of September 30, 20172019 and December 31, 2016,2018, respectively (in thousands):
 As of September 30, 2017
 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Mutual funds$1,965
 $
 $
 $1,965
Certificates of deposit
 25,000
 
 25,000
Total$1,965
 $25,000
 $
 $26,965
 As of September 30, 2019
 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Mutual funds$2,385
 $
 $
 $2,385
Contingent consideration$
 $
 $3,250
 $3,250
 As of December 31, 2016
 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Mutual funds$1,688
 $
 $
 $1,688
Corporate notes and bonds
 22,746
 
 22,746
Certificates of deposit
 25,000
 
 25,000
Total$1,688
 $47,746
 $
 $49,434
 As of December 31, 2018
 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total
Mutual funds$2,068
 $
 $
 $2,068
The mutual funds in the tables above, include mutual funds,represent the deferred compensation asset balances, which are considered Level 1 investments and consist of investments relating to the Company’s deferred compensation plan. The tables above also include amounts related to investments classified as other investments, such as certificates of deposit, which are carried at amortized cost. The amortized cost of such other investments approximated fair value at each balance sheet date. The assumptions used in these fair value estimates are considered other observable inputs and therefore these investments are categorized as Level 2 investments under the accounting guidance. The Company’s Level 2 investments are valued using readily available pricing sources that utilize market observable inputs, including the current interest rate for similar types of instruments.be trading securities. There were no transfers between level categories for our investments during the periods presented. The Company also holds money market securities, whichCompany’s deferred compensation asset balances are recorded in the cash and cash equivalentsinvestments line item on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets, thatand are classified as Level 1 securities.


11



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

The following tables summarize if there are anyThere were no differences between amortized cost and fair value of investments as of September 30, 20172019 and December 31, 2016, respectively (in thousands):
 September 30, 2017
     Gross unrealized  
 Maturities Amortized Cost Gain Loss Fair Value
Short-term         
Certificates of deposit1 year or less $25,000
 $
 $
 $25,000
Total  $25,000
 $
 $
 $25,000
The above table does not include the $2.0 million of mutual funds as of September 30, 2017, which are recorded as trading securities.
 December 31, 2016
     Gross unrealized  
 Maturities Amortized Cost Gain Loss Fair Value
Short-term         
Corporate notes and bonds1 year or less $22,747
 $2
 $(3) $22,746
Certificates of deposit1 year or less 25,000
 
 
 25,000
Total  $47,747
 $2
 $(3) $47,746
The above table does not include the $1.7 million of mutual funds as of December 31, 2016, which are recorded as trading securities.
The Company records changes in unrealized gains and losses on its investments during the period in the accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) line item on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets. There were no net unrealized gains for the three months ended September 30, 2017. For the three months ended September 30, 2016, the Company recorded net unrealized losses of $46,000 in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). For the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016, the Company recorded net unrealized gains of $1,000 and $148,000, respectively, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).
2018, respectively. There were no reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) during either the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016.2018.
The contingent consideration represents the shares to be issued as part of the acquisition of Fullstack. The contingent


18



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

consideration is recorded in the other long-term liabilities line item on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets, and are classified as Level 3 securities. For further information regarding acquisitions, refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to the condensed consolidated financial statements. The fair value of accrued contingent consideration is remeasured each reporting period. Increases or decreases in projected revenue and the related probabilities of achieving the forecast results, may result in a higher or lower fair value measurement. Changes in fair value resulting from changes in the likelihood of contingent payments are included in the condensed consolidated statements of income (loss).
5.7. Accounts Receivable, Net
Accounts receivable, net, consists of the following (in thousands):
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
Accounts receivable$52,356
 $42,611
$45,835
 $39,195
Less allowance for doubtful accounts(18,053) (16,154)10,160
 12,180
Accounts receivable, net$34,303
 $26,457
$35,675
 $27,015
As of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, there wasThere is an immaterial amount of accounts receivable, net, at each balance sheet date with a payment due date of greater than one year.


12



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

The following table presents the changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts for accounts receivable for the periods indicated (in thousands):
 
Beginning
Balance
 
Charged to
Expense
 Deductions(1) 
Ending
Balance
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable:       
For the nine months ended September 30, 2017$(16,154) $24,440
 $(22,541) $(18,053)
For the nine months ended September 30, 2016$(10,114) $23,406
 $(19,395) $(14,125)
 
Beginning
Balance
 
Charged to
Expense
 Deductions (1) 
Ending
Balance
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable:       
For the nine months ended September 30, 2019$12,180
 $10,508
 $(12,528) $10,160
For the nine months ended September 30, 2018$15,189
 $19,339
 $(20,194) $14,334
(1)Deductions represent accounts written off, net of recoveries.
6.8. Other Significant Balance Sheet Accounts
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Prepaid expenses and other current assets consists of the following (in thousands):
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
Prepaid expenses$6,225
 $7,160
$5,461
 $5,445
Prepaid licenses5,764
 5,183
4,973
 5,840
Prepaid income taxes200
 
Income tax receivable8,448
 7,432
4,121
 5,044
Prepaid insurance1,420
 1,291
1,138
 1,077
Insurance recoverable1,159
 1,027
994
 723
Other current assets1,532
 1,374
7,818
 126
Total prepaid expenses and other current assets$24,548
 $23,467
$24,705
 $18,255


19



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net, consists of the following (in thousands):
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
Buildings, build-to-suit$
 $10,434
Furniture and office equipment$42,977
 $41,528
42,815
 31,227
Software12,049
 11,979
7,346
 7,517
Leasehold improvements5,238
 4,332
18,560
 3,430
Vehicles22
 22
22
 22
Total property and equipment60,286
 57,861
68,743
 52,630
Less accumulated depreciation(49,392) (45,643)
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization(35,748) (35,770)
Total property and equipment, net$10,894
 $12,218
$32,995
 $16,860
For the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, depreciation and amortization expense related to property and equipment was $1.3$1.6 million and $2.0$1.0 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, depreciation and amortization expense was $4.2$3.9 million and $6.5$3.2 million, respectively.


13



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

Goodwill and Intangibles, Net
Goodwill and intangibles, net, consists of the following (in thousands):
September 30, 2017September 30, 2019
Definite-lived intangible assets:Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying AmountGross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount
Capitalized curriculum costs$21,348
 $(18,849) $2,499
$20,974
 $(19,452) $1,522
Purchased intangible assets15,850
 (5,679) 10,171
29,185
 (9,810) 19,375
Total definite-lived intangible assets$37,198
 $(24,528) $12,670
$50,159
 $(29,262) $20,897
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles    2,567
    25,035
Total goodwill and intangibles, net    $15,237
    $45,932
          
December 31, 2016December 31, 2018
Definite-lived intangible assets:Gross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying AmountGross Carrying Amount Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Amount
Capitalized curriculum costs$21,153
 $(17,397) $3,756
$21,076
 $(19,338) $1,738
Purchased intangible assets15,850
 (4,754) 11,096
15,850
 (7,219) 8,631
Total definite-lived intangible assets$37,003
 $(22,151) $14,852
$36,926
 $(26,557) $10,369
Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles    2,567
    2,072
Total goodwill and intangibles, net    $17,419
    $12,441
The increase in goodwill relates to the Company’s acquisitions of Fullstack and TutorMe in the second quarter of 2019. For further information regarding the acquisitions, refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to the condensed consolidated financial statements. The amount of goodwill recognized is subject to change, pending the final determination of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in connection with the acquisitions.
During the third quarter of 2019, the Company's qualitative assessment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets indicated triggering events in one of its reporting units, including a declining stock price, which indicated the fair value of the


20



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

reporting unit was potentially less than its carrying amount. This analysis is being finalized. For further information on receivables, refer to Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” within the condensed consolidated financial statements.
For the three months endedSeptember 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, amortization expense was $0.8$1.3 million and $1.1$0.6 million,, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and September 30, 2016,2018, amortization expense was $2.6$3.3 million and $3.6$2.0 million, respectively.
The following table summarizes the estimated remaining amortization expense as of each fiscal year ended below (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,  
Remainder of 2017$758
20182,481
20191,758
20201,461
20211,277
Thereafter4,935
Total future amortization expense$12,670


14



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

Year Ended December 31,  
Remainder of 2019$1,332
20205,252
20214,069
20223,430
20233,307
Thereafter3,507
Total future amortization expense$20,897
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities consists of the following (in thousands):
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
Accounts payable$1,496
 $4,519
$7,747
 $5,313
Accrued salaries and wages6,738
 8,967
5,449
 7,807
Accrued bonus6,507
 5,087
5,701
 8,147
Accrued vacation9,546
 9,313
4,974
 7,929
Accrued litigation and fees8,041
 13,946
8,041
 8,041
Accrued expenses17,737
 15,793
24,280
 17,692
Rent liability16,766
 17,232
Current leases payable9,803
 5,768
Accrued insurance liability3,009
 3,009
2,348
 2,095
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities$69,840
 $77,866
$68,343
 $62,792
Deferred Revenue and Student Deposits
Deferred revenue and student deposits consists of the following (in thousands):
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
Deferred revenue$22,143
 $21,733
$22,549
 $21,768
Student deposits39,572
 52,933
31,912
 42,066
Total deferred revenue and student deposits$61,715
 $74,666
$54,461
 $63,834


21



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Other Long-Term Liabilities
Other long-term liabilities consists of the following (in thousands):
As of
September 30, 2017
 As of
December 31, 2016
As of
September 30, 2019
 As of
December 31, 2018
Uncertain tax positions$8,290
 $8,216
$679
 $865
Student transfer agreement costs81
 630
Contingent consideration3,250
 
Other long-term liabilities4,261
 4,784
2,238
 2,570
Total other long-term liabilities$12,632
 $13,630
$6,167
 $3,435
79. Credit Facilities
The Company has issued letters of credit that are collateralized with cash (held in restricted cash) in the aggregate amount of $8.3$16.6 million which is included in restricted cash as of September 30, 2017.2019.
As part of its normal business operations, the Company is required to provide surety bonds in certain states in which the Company does business. The Company has entered into a surety bond facility with an insurance company to provide such bonds when required. As of September 30, 20172019, the Company’s total available surety bond facility was $3.5$8.5 million, and the surety had issued bonds totaling $3.3$8.1 million on the Company’s behalf under such facility.


15



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

8.10. Lease Obligations
Operating Leases
The Company leases certainvarious office facilities and office equipment under non-cancelable lease arrangements thatwhich expire at various dates through 2023. These facilities are used for academic operations, corporate functions, enrollment services and student support services. The Company does not have any leases other than its office facilities. All of the leases were classified as operating leases for the period ended September 30, 2019, and the Company does not have any finance leases. All of the leases, other than those that may qualify for the short-term scope exception of 12 months or less, are recorded on the Company’s condensed consolidated balance sheets.
During 2018, the Company entered into a lease agreement, which commenced in April 2019, consisting of approximately 131,000 square feet of office space located in Chandler, Arizona, which extends through 2030. The Company is involved in the construction and the build-out of the space, and as such, serves as the construction agent on behalf of the landlord. Under such arrangement, the Company has obligations to fund cost over-runs in its capacity as the construction agent. The Company has determined that under the new lease accounting standard ASC 842, it does not have control during construction, and as such has derecognized the asset and financing obligation as of January 1, 2019.
As of September 30, 2019, the lease amounts on the condensed consolidated balance sheets do not include any options to extend, nor any options for early termination. The Company’s lease agreements do not include rental payments adjusted periodically for inflation. The Company’s lease agreements do not contain certain renewal options. Rentany residual value guarantees or restrictive covenants. The Company is not a party to any related party arrangements with respect to its lease transactions.
Some of the more significant assumptions and judgments in determining the amounts to capitalize include the determination of the discount rate, which is discussed below.
Rental expense under non-cancelable operating lease arrangements is accounted for on a straight-line basisthe three and totalednine months ended September 30, 2019 was $5.3 million and $14.9 million, respectively, calculated in accordance with ASC 842, and rental expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $3.7 million and $11.3 million, respectively, calculated in accordance with ASC 840.


22



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The Company has agreements to sublease certain portions of its office facilities, with three active subleases as of September 30, 2019. The Company’s subleases do not include any options to extend, nor any options for early termination. The Company’s subleases do not contain any residual value guarantees or restrictive covenants. All of the subleases were classified as operating leases for the period ended September 30, 2019. The Company is subleasing approximately 28,400 square feet of office space in San Diego, California with a remaining commitment to lease of 7 months and $17.4 millionnet lease payments of $0.4 million. The Company is subleasing approximately 72,200 square feet of office space in Denver, Colorado with a remaining commitment to lease of 23 months and net lease payments of $1.9 million. The Company is subleasing additional office space of approximately 21,000 square feet in Denver, Colorado with a remaining commitment to lease of 41 months and net lease payments of $2.0 million. Sublease income for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018 was $2.2 million (in accordance with ASC 842) and $2.1 million (in accordance with ASC 840), respectively. Rent expense in certain periods also includes
The following tables represent the restructuringclassification and impairment chargesamounts recorded on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of September 30, 2019 (in thousands):
Operating lease assets: 
Arizona$8,470
California4,876
Colorado7,922
Iowa128
New York237
Other270
Total$21,903
Operating lease liabilities: 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities$9,804
Rent liability23,882
Total$33,686
The following table represents the classification and therefore, may differ significantly from cash payments. For additional information, referamounts recorded on the condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 (in thousands):
Operating lease costs$14,287
Short-term lease cost202
Variable lease costs (1)
455
Less: Sub-lease income(2,167)
Total net lease costs$12,777
(1)Variable components of the lease payments such as utilities, taxes and insurance, parking and maintenance costs.



23



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Note 3, “Restructuring and Impairment Charges.”Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The following table represents the maturities of lease liabilities as of September 30, 2019 (in thousands):
Remainder of 2019$3,900
20209,988
20216,489
20223,915
20232,744
20242,400
Thereafter15,265
Total minimum payments$44,701
Less: Interest (1)
(11,015)
Total net lease liabilities$33,686
(1)Calculated using an appropriate interest rate for each individual lease. See the weighted-average discount rate noted below.

The following table summarizes the future minimum rental payments under non-cancelable operating lease arrangements in effect at September 30, 2017December 31, 2018 (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,    
Remainder of 2017$9,080
201831,400
2019201920,833
2019$20,382
202020209,504
20209,936
202120215,112
20216,460
202220223,826
202320232,726
ThereafterThereafter1,949
Thereafter17,710
Total minimum paymentsTotal minimum payments$77,878
Total minimum payments$61,040
The following table represents the lease term and discount rate used in the calculations as of September 30, 2019:
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years):
  Operating leases6.4 years
Weighted-average discount rate:
  Operating leases7.5%
The following table represents the cash flow information of operating leases for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 (in thousands):
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities: 
Operating cash flows from operating leases$17,377
9.11. Income (Loss) Per Share
Basic income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period.


24



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Diluted income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders for the period by the sum of (i) the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period, plus (ii) potentially dilutive securities outstanding during the period, if the effect is dilutive. Potentially dilutive securities for the periods presented include stock options, unvested restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and unvested performance stock units (“PSUs”).
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted income (loss) per share for the periods indicated (in thousands, except per share data):
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162019 2018 2019 2018
Numerator:              
Net income (loss)$39
 $(9,477) $16,222
 $(16,251)$(7,558) $1,661
 $(31,797) $18,051
Denominator:              
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding29,123
 46,315
 33,333
 46,180
30,263
 27,061
 29,230
 27,131
Effect of dilutive options and stock units548
 
 860
 

 528
 
 401
Diluted weighted average number of common shares outstanding29,671
 46,315
 34,193
 46,180
30,263
 27,589
 29,230
 27,532
Income (loss) per share:              
Basic$0.00
 $(0.20) $0.49
 $(0.35)$(0.25) $0.06
 $(1.09) $0.67
Diluted$0.00
 $(0.20) $0.47
 $(0.35)$(0.25) $0.06
 $(1.09) $0.66


16



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

During periods in which the Company reports a net loss, basic and diluted loss per share are the same. The following table sets forth the number of stock options, RSUs and PSUs, excluded from the computation of diluted income (loss) per share for the periods indicated below because their effect was anti-dilutive (in thousands):
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2017 2016 2017 2016
Stock options2,625
 4,258
 1,858
 4,468
RSUs and PSUs19
 588
 9
 991
During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, the Company repurchased approximately 18.1 million shares of the Company’s common stock for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $150.0 million.
 Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
 2019 2018 2019 2018
Stock options2,141
 1,560
 1,983
 2,709
RSUs and PSUs3,228
 2
 1,461
 2
10.12. Stock-Based Compensation
The Company recorded $1.13.4 million and $1.41.3 million of stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 20162018, respectively, and $2.8$8.7 million and $5.7$3.6 million of stock-based compensation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively.
The related income tax benefit was $0.40.8 million and $0.5$0.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 20162018, respectively, and $1.1$2.1 million and $2.1$0.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, the Company granted 0.51.3 million RSUs at a weighted average grant date fair value of $10.48$5.68 and 0.4 million RSUs vested. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, the Company granted 0.50.8 million RSUs at a grant date fair value of $10.18$6.84 and 0.50.4 million RSUs vested.
During the nine months ended September 30, 20172019, 0.8 million market-based PSUs were granted at a weighted average grant date fair value of $6.97 and 2016, the Company did not grant anyno performance-based or market-based PSUs vested. During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, no performance-based or market-based PSUs were granted, and no performance-based or market-based PSUs vested.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, the Company granted 0.30.2 million stock options at a grant date fair value of $4.76$4.28 and 0.5 million6,274 stock options were exercised. During the nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, the Company granted 0.4 million35,088 stock options at a grant date fair value of $3.28$2.97 and 0.20.8 million stock options were exercised.


25



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

As of September 30, 20172019, there was unrecognized compensation cost of $6.811.5 million related to unvested stock options, RSUs and PSUs.
11.13. Income Taxes
The Company uses the asset-liability method to account for taxes. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities result from temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the condensed consolidated financial statements that will result in income and deductions in future years.
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets if realization of such assets is more-likely-than-not. In order to make this determination, the Company evaluates a number of factors including the ability to generate future taxable income from reversing taxable temporary differences, forecasts of financial and taxable income or loss, and the ability to carryback certain operating losses to refund taxes paid in prior years. The cumulative loss incurred over the three-year period ended September 30, 20172019 constituted significant negative objective evidence against the Company’s ability to realize a benefit from its federal deferred tax assets. Such objective evidence limited the ability of the Company to consider in its evaluation certain subjective evidence such as the Company’s projections for future growth. On the basis of its evaluation, the Company determined that its deferred tax assets were not more-likely-than-not to be realized and that a valuation allowance against its deferred tax assets should continue to be maintained as of September 30, 2017.2019.
The Company determines the interim income tax provision by applying the estimated effective income tax rate expected to be applicable for the full fiscal year to income before income taxes for the period. In determining the full year estimate, the


17



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

Company does not include the estimated impact of unusual and/or infrequent items, which may cause significant variations in the customary relationship between income tax expense and income before income taxes.
The Company’s current effective income tax rate that has been applied to normal, recurring operations for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 was 1.8%(0.4)%. The Company’s actual effective income tax rate after discrete items was (4.6)%7.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, which includes a discrete tax benefit associated with return to provision adjustments related prior years as well2019. The Company released approximately $2.3 million in valuation allowance as a discreteresult of tax expense associatedbenefits recorded in connection with unrecognizedits acquisitions during the second quarter of 2019 for which a deferred tax benefit for the nine months endedliability was established in purchase accounting.
As of September 30, 2017.
At September 30, 2017,2019, and December 31, 2018, the Company had $18.8$0.7 million and $0.9 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits, of which $12.3$0.6 million and $0.7 million would impact the effective income tax rate if recognized. At December 31, 2016, the Company had $20.2 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits, of which $13.2 million, would impact the effective income tax rate if recognized. It is reasonably possible that the total amount of the unrecognized tax benefit could change during the next 12 months.recognized, respectively. Although the Company cannot predict the timing of resolution with taxing authorities, if any, the Company believes it is reasonably possible that the total of the unrecognized tax benefits could change in the next twelve months due to settlement with tax authorities or expiration of the applicable statute of limitations. These unrecognized tax benefits primarily relate to apportionment of on-line service revenues for corporate income tax purposes. Although the Company believes the tax accruals provided are reasonable, the final determination of tax returns under review or returns that may be reviewed in the future and any related litigation could result in tax liabilities that materially differ from ourthe Company’s historical income tax provisions and accruals.
The Company has analyzed filing positions in all of the federal and state jurisdictions where it is required to file income tax returns, as well as all open tax years in these jurisdictions. The tax years 2001 through 2017 are open to examination by major taxing jurisdictions to which the Company is subject.
The Company is currently under Internal Revenue Service audit examinations of the Company’s income and payroll tax returns for the years 2013 through 2015.2016.
The Company’s income tax returns for the tax years ended December 31, 2013 through 2015 are being auditedunder examination by the California Franchise Tax Board forBoard. The audit examination is currently on hold until the years 2008 through 2015. The Company was notified by the Franchise Tax Board in March 2017 that they are continuing to challenge the Company’s filing position. The Company continues to work toward resolution, and based on all available information the CompanyInternal Revenue Service audit examination has accrued for any uncertain tax positions that may be addressed in the audit.
The Company’s income tax returns are being audited by the Oregon Department of Revenue for the years 2012 through 2014. In January 2017, the Oregon Department of Revenue issued Notices of Deficiencies, which were appealed by the Company.been completed.
12.14. Regulatory
The Company is subject to extensive regulation by federal and state governmental agencies and accrediting bodies. In particular, the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (the “Higher(“Higher Education Act”), and the regulations promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Department of Education (the “Department”(“Department”) subject the Company to significant regulatory scrutiny on the


26



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

basis of numerous standards that institutions of higher education must satisfy in order to participate in the various federal student financial aid programs under Title IV of the Higher Education Act.
Act (“Title IV programs”). Ashford University is regionally accredited by WASCWestern Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (“WSCUC”) and University of the Rockies is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (“HLC”).
Department of Education Open Program Review of Ashford University
On July 7, 2016, Ashford University was notified by the Department that an off-site program review had been scheduled to assess Ashford’sAshford University’s administration of the Title IV programs in which it participates. The off-site program review commenced on July 25, 2016 and covered students identified in the 2009-2012 calendar year data previously provided by Ashford University to the Department in response to a request for information received from the Multi-Regional and Foreign School Participation Division of the Department’s Office of Federal Student Aid (the “FSA”(“FSA”) on December 10, 2015, but may be expanded if appropriate.2015.
On December 9, 2016, the Department informed Ashford University that it intended to continue the program review on-site at Ashford.Ashford University. The on-site program review commenced on January 23, 2017 and initially coverscovered the 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 award years, but may be expanded if the Department deems such expansion appropriate.


18



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

Department of Education Program Participation Agreement for Ashford University
On October 20, 2017,April 23, 2018, Ashford University received an updated Program Participation Agreement from the U.S. Department of Education (“Department”).Department. Based on the updated Program Participation Agreement, Ashford University is provisionally certified to participate in Federal Student Financial Aid Programs until DecemberMarch 31, 2018. Ashford University was previously eligible to participate on a month-to-month basis while its reapplication for certification was pending with the Department. As a result of the updated Program Participation Agreement, Ashford University’s pending educational programs have been approved and2021. Ashford University is required to submit its reapplication for continued certification by December 31, 2020.
Department of Education Close Out Audit of University of the Rockies
The Company previously recorded an expense of $1.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2018, in relation to the close out audit of University of the Rockies resulting from its merger with Ashford University in October 2018. The expense was recorded in relation to borrower defense to repayment regulations. On September 30, 2018.26, 2019, the Department of Education sent Ashford University a Final Audit Determination letter for the University of the Rockies. This letter confirmed that with the exception of the borrower defense to repayment regulations, none of the other audit findings resulted in financial liability. The Department also stated that additional liabilities could accrue in the future. The Company continues to assess the borrower defense to repayment regulation audit finding and may submit a request for review to the Department.
WSCUC Accreditation of Ashford University
In July 2013, WSCUC granted Initial Accreditation to Ashford University for five years, until July 15, 2018. In December 2013, Ashford effected its transition to WSCUC accreditation and designated its San Diego, California facilities as its main campus and its Clinton, Iowa campus as an additional location. As part of a continuing monitoring process, Ashford hosted a visiting team from WSCUC in a special visit in April 2015. In July 2015, Ashford received an Action Letter from WSCUC outlining the findings arising out of its visiting team's special visit. The Action Letter statedUniversity was notified on June 8, 2018 that the Ashford University Accreditation Visit originally scheduled for fall 2018 had been rescheduled to April 3-5, 2019. The visit took place as scheduled and the WSCUC visitingevaluation team found evidence that Ashford continues to make progress in all six areas recommended by WSCUC in 2013. As part of its institutional review process, WSCUC will conductprovided a comprehensive review of Ashford scheduled to commence with an off-site review in spring 2018, followed by an on-site review in fall 2018.
Substantial Misrepresentation
The Higher Education Act prohibits an institution participating in Title IV programs from engaging in substantial misrepresentation regarding the nature of its educational programs, its financial charges or the employability of its graduates. Under the Department’s rules, a “misrepresentation” is any false, erroneous or misleading statement an institution, one of its representatives or any ineligible institution, organization or person with whom the institution has an agreement to provide educational programs or marketing, advertising, recruiting, or admissions services makes directly or indirectly to a student, prospective student or any memberreport of the public, or to an accrediting agency, a state agency or the Department. The Department’s rules define a “substantial misrepresentation” as any misrepresentation on which the person to whom it was made could reasonably be expected to rely, or has reasonably relied, to that person’s detriment. For-profit educational institutions are also subject to the general deceptive practices jurisdiction of the Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the “CFPB”).
On December 10, 2015,visit. Ashford University receivedthen prepared a request for information from the Multi-Regional and Foreign School Participation Division of the FSA for (i) advertising and marketing materials provided to prospective students regarding the transferability of certain credits, (ii) documents produced in response to the August 10, 2015 Civil Investigative Demand fromreport. The team report and Ashford University’s response were considered at the CFPBJune 2019 WSCUC Commission meeting. On July 12, 2019, WSCUC notified Ashford University that it had reaffirmed its accreditation for six years.
WSCUC also visited Ashford University on May 1, 2019 to conduct its federally mandated, six-month post-implementation review, due to the merger of University of the Rockies and into Ashford University which was finalized on October 31, 2018. WSCUC has verified that Ashford University has met all post-implementation requirements related to the CFPB’s investigationmerger of the two entities.
In a separate action, Ashford University submitted a change of control and legal status application (the “Change of Control Application”) to determine whether for-profit postsecondary education companies or other unnamed persons have engaged in or are engaging in unlawful acts or practices relatedconvert to a nonprofit California public benefit corporation, and separate from the Company (the “Conversion Transaction”). On July 12, 2019, WSCUC notified Ashford University that it had approved the Change of Control Application for the Conversion Transaction. The approval is subject to certain conditions which must be met prior to the advertising, marketing or origination of private student loans, (iii) certain documents produced in response to subpoenas and interrogatories issued by the Attorney Generalclose of the StateConversion Transaction, including divestiture of California (the “CA Attorney General”)financial and (iv) records created between 2009ownership interest in the Company by all Ashford University officers and 2012 related parties and submission of a revised services agreement with respect to the disbursement of certain Title IV funds. The FSA is reviewing representations made by Ashford University to potential and enrolled students, and has asked the Company and Ashford to assist in its assessment of Ashford’s compliance with the prohibition on substantial misrepresentations. The Company and Ashford University are cooperating fully with the FSA with a view toward demonstrating the compliant nature of their practices.
As discussed above, the Department is currently conducting a program review to assess Ashford University’s administration of the Title IV programs in which it participates, which covers in part students identified in the 2009-2012 calendar year data provided by Ashford to the Department in response to the FSA’s December 10, 2015 request for information.
If the Department determines that one of the Company’s institutions has engaged in substantial misrepresentation, the Department may (i) revoke the institution’s program participation agreement, if the institution is provisionally certified, (ii) impose limitations on the institution’s participation in Title IV programs, if the institution is provisionally certified, (iii) deny participation applications made on behalf of the institution or (iv) initiate proceedings to fine the institution or to limit, suspendConversion


1927



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

or terminateTransaction, including the participationincorporation of key performance indicators into that agreement. WSCUC is also requiring a post-implementation site visit of Ashford University within six months of the institutionclose of the Conversion Transaction.
U.S. Department of Education Abbreviated Preacquisition Review Letter
On October 7, 2019, the Company announced that in connection with the Conversion Transaction, the Department has provided a response (the “Abbreviated Preacquisition Review Letter”) to the request for review made on July 15, 2019. The request for an abbreviated preacquisition review was made in accordance with Department procedures pursuant to which the Department provides information about conditions it intends to impose in connection with the continued participation in federal Title IV programs. Because Ashford University is provisionally certified, ifstudent financial aid programs by the applicant following a change in ownership.
In the Abbreviated Preacquisition Review Letter, along with other conditions, the Department determinedindicated that Ashford has engaged in substantial misrepresentation,it would require the posting of an irrevocable letter of credit with the Department may takewithin ten days of the actions set forthConversion Transaction for approximately $103 million, representing the Department’s determination of 25% of the Title IV funding in clauses (i) and (ii) above in addition to any other actions takenfiscal year 2018 (the “25% LOC”). This letter of credit would require coverage until March 31, 2021 unless extended or replaced as determined by the Department.
GI Bill Benefits
On May 20, 2016, the Company received a letter from the Iowa Department of Education (the “Iowa(“Iowa DOE”) indicating that, as a result of the planned closure of Ashford University’s residential campus inthe Clinton Iowa,Campus, the Iowa State Approving Agency (the “ISAA”(“ISAA”) would no longer continue to approve Ashford’sAshford University’s programs for benefits under the GI Bill benefits after June 30, 2016, and recommending Ashford University seek approval through the State Approving Agency of jurisdiction for any location that meets the definition of a “main campus” or “branch campus”.campus.” Ashford University began the process of applying for approval through the State Approving Agency in California (“CSAAVE”), and the Company subsequently disclosed that on June 20, 2016 it received a second letter from the Iowa DOE indicating that the Iowa DOE had issued a stay of the ISAA’s withdrawal of approval of Ashford’sAshford University’s programs for GI Bill benefits effective immediately until the earlier of (i) 90 days from June 20, 2016 or (ii) the date on which CSAAVE completed its review and issued a decision regarding the approval of Ashford University in California. Ashford University received communication from CSAAVE indicating that additional information and documentation would be required before Ashford’sAshford University’s application could be considered for CSAAVE approval. Ashford University subsequently withdrew the CSAAVE application and continued working with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”), the Iowa DOE and the ISAA to obtain continued approval of Ashford’sAshford University’s programs for GI Bill benefits and to prevent any disruption of educational benefits to Ashford’sAshford University’s veteran students.
On September 15, 2016, in response to a Petition for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief (the “Petition”(“Petition”) filed by Ashford University, the Iowa District Court for Polk County entered a written order (the “Order”(“Order”) staying the Iowa DOE’s announced intention to withdraw the approval of Ashford University as a GI Bill eligible institution until the entry of a final and appealable order and judgment in the action. On June 23, 2017, the Iowa District Court held a hearing on Ashford’sAshford University’s Petition and on July 17, 2017, the Court ruled in favor of the Iowa DOE and denied the petition. Ashford University filed a motion for reconsideration of this ruling, which was denied on August 17, 2017. On August 23, 2017, Ashford University filed a Petition to Vacate or Modify the Iowa District Court’s July 17, 2017 ruling, based on material evidence, newly discovered, which could not with reasonable diligence have been previously discovered by Ashford (the “PetitionUniversity (“First Petition to Vacate”). The Petition to Vacate is pending. On September 18, 2017, Ashford University appealed, inter alia, the July 17, 2017 ruling to the Iowa Supreme Court and posted an appeal bond, which staysstayed this matter pending resolution of Ashford’s appeal, and asAshford University’s appeal. As a result, Ashford’sAshford University’s approval was not withdrawn, and Ashford’sAshford University’s programs remain approved for GI Bill purposes. The Assistant Attorney General handling this matter on behalf of the Iowa DOE also advised Ashford University that the Iowa DOE would take no action pending the post-ruling motions and appeal. On October 12, 2017, Judge Eliza Ovrom, the Iowa District Court judge thatJudge who issued the July 17, 2017 ruling, filed a Disclosure Statement revealing family ties to the Iowa Attorney General’s Office, and following a motionOffice. Following motions by Ashford University for her recusal, the judgeJudge Ovrom recused herself from all further proceedings concerning the Petition to Vacate on October 20, 2017.proceedings. On October 24, 2017, Ashford movedUniversity filed with the Iowa Supreme Court a Petition to vacateVacate or, in the Alternative, for Limited Remand (“Second Petition to Vacate”), in which Ashford University argued that the July 17, 2017 ruling and all other material orders entered by Judge Ovrom should be vacated due to her previously undisclosed conflict of interest. On January 8, 2018, the Iowa Supreme Court remanded the Second Petition to Vacate to the District Court, where all proceedings in this matter were consolidated before Judge Michael Huppert. On April 26, 2018, Judge Huppert granted the Second Petition to Vacate and


28



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

vacated all material rulings by Judge Ovrom, including the July 17, 2017 ruling, thus on June 21, 2018, the Iowa Supreme Court issued a Procedendo stating that the appeal was concluded. Judge Huppert’s decision mooted the First Petition to Vacate and Ashford’s appeal of, inter alia, the July 17, 2017 ruling. The case is now proceeding on the merits de novo before a new judge orand Ashford filed its opening brief in support of the alternative, for a limited remand of this matter. This motion is pending. Petition on July 25, 2019.
On July 6, 2017, Ashford University received approval from the Arizona State Approving Agency (“ASAA”) to provide GI Bill benefits to its students. On September 13, 2017, the VA accepted the Arizona State Approving Agency’sASAA’s approval, subject to Ashford's continuedAshford University's compliance with the approval requirements, whichand the University subsequently received a facility code from the VA. On November 9, 2017, the VA informed Ashford University that the ASAA had not provided sufficient evidence to establish that it has jurisdictional authority over Ashford University’s online programs. The VA stated that it intends to suspend payment of educational assistance and approval of new student enrollments and student re-enrollments for Ashford University’s online programs in 60 days unless corrective action was taken.
On November 17, 2017, Ashford University filed a petition for review in the final step neededUnited States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit challenging the VA’s actions. In response to that petition, the VA agreed to stay the actions with respect to the suspension and reenrollment it had announced on November 9, 2017 through the entry of judgment in the Federal Circuit case, on the condition that Ashford University request and submit an application for approval to CSAAVE on or before January 8, 2018. Ashford University submitted an application to CSAAVE for approval on January 5, 2018. On February 21, 2018, CSAAVE provided notice of its intention not to act on Ashford University’s initial application for approval for the training of veterans and other eligible persons. The notice directed Ashford University to continuerequest approval of its application by the VA. Ashford University continues to certify eligible studentswork in good faith with the VA while its petition for GI Bill benefits.review remains pending with the Federal Circuit. In keeping with this commitment, Ashford University agreed, at the VA’s request, to submit another application to CSAAVE. Ashford University filed that additional application on November 19, 2018. On December 14, 2018, however, CSAAVE again informed Ashford University that it did not intend to act on Ashford University’s application, and again indicated that Ashford University could request approval of its application directly from the VA.

The parties completed all briefing for the petition for review on May 3, 2019 and the Court held oral argument on October 2, 2019. The Court has not yet issued a ruling.

20



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

13.15. Commitments and Contingencies
Litigation
From time to time, the Company is a party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. When the Company becomes aware of a claim or potential claim, it assesses the likelihood of any loss or exposure. In accordance with GAAP, the Company records loss contingencies in its financial statements only for matters in which losses are probable and can be reasonably estimated. Where a range of loss can be reasonably estimated, the best estimate within that range should be accrued. If no estimate is better than another, the Company records the minimum estimated liability in the range. If the loss is not probable or the amount of the loss cannot be reasonably estimated, the Company discloses the nature of the specific claim if the likelihood of a potential loss is reasonably possible and the amount involved could be material. The Company continuously assesses the potential liability related to the Company’s pending litigation and revises its estimates when additional information becomes available. Below is a list of material legal proceedings to which the Company or its subsidiaries is a party.
Compliance Audit by the Department’s Office of the Inspector General
In January 2011, Ashford University received a final audit report from the Department’s Office of Inspector General (the “OIG”) regarding the compliance audit commenced in May 2008 and covering the period July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007. The audit covered Ashford University’s administration of Title IV program funds, including compliance with regulations governing institutional and student eligibility, awards and disbursements of Title IV program funds, verification of awards and returns of unearned funds during that period, and compensation of financial aid and recruiting personnel during the period May 10, 2005 through June 30, 2009.
The final audit report contained audit findings, in each case for the period July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007, which are applicable to award year 2006-2007. Each finding was accompanied by one or more recommendations to the FSA. Ashford University provided the FSA a detailed response to the OIG’s final audit report in February 2011. In June 2011, in connection with two of the six findings, the FSA requested that Ashford University conduct a file review of the return to Title IV fund calculations for all Title IV recipients who withdrew from distance education programs during the 2006-2007 award year. The institution cooperated with the request and supplied the information within the time frame required.
Ashford University received a final audit determination on February 22, 2017 from the Department that was dated February 14, 2017. The determination maintained that Ashford University owed the Department $0.3 million as a result of incorrect refund calculations and refunds that were not made or were made late, and that Ashford ensure it properly enforces its policies and is in compliance with regulations related to disbursement of Title IV funds. The Department closed or required no further action on all other prior OIG findings. Ashford University made the required payment to the Department during the first quarter of 2017 and the matter is now concluded.
New York Attorney General Investigation of Bridgepoint Education, Inc.
In May 2011, the Company received from the Attorney General of the State of New York (the “NY Attorney General”) a subpoena relating to the NY Attorney General’s investigation of whether the Company and its academic institutions have complied with certain New York state consumer protection, securities and finance laws. Pursuant to the subpoena, the NY Attorney General requested from the Company and its academic institutions documents and detailed information for the time period March 17, 2005 to present. The Company cooperated with this request and cannot predict the eventual scope, duration or outcome of the investigation at this time.
North Carolina Attorney General Investigation of Ashford University
In September 2011, Ashford University received from the Attorney General of the State of North Carolina (the “NC Attorney General”) an Investigative Demand relating to the NC Attorney General’s investigation of whether the university’s business practices complied with North Carolina consumer protection laws. Pursuant to the Investigative Demand, the NC Attorney General requested from Ashford University documents and detailed information for the time period January 1, 2008 to present. Ashford University cooperated with this request and cannot predict the eventual scope, duration or outcome of the investigation at this time.


21



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

California Attorney General Investigation of For-Profit Educational Institutions
In January 2013, the Company received from the Attorney General of the State of California (the “CA(“CA Attorney General”) an Investigative Subpoena relating to the CA Attorney General’s investigation of for-profit educational institutions. Pursuant to the Investigative Subpoena, the CA Attorney General requested documents and detailed information for the time period March 1, 2009 to present.the date of the Investigative Subpoena. On July 24, 2013, the CA Attorney General filed a petition to enforce certain categories of the Investigative Subpoena related to recorded calls and electronic marketing data. On September 25, 2013, the Company reached an agreement with the CA Attorney General to produce certain categories of the documents requested in the petition and stipulated to continue the hearing on the petition to enforce from October 3, 2013 to January 9, 2014. On January


29



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

13, 2014 and June 19, 2014, the Company received additional Investigative Subpoenas from the CA Attorney General, each requesting additional documents and information for the time period March 1, 2009 through the currenteach such date.
Representatives from the Company met with representatives from the CA Attorney General’s office on several occasions to discuss the status of the investigation, additional information requests, and specific concerns related to possible unfair business practices in connection with the Company’s recruitment of students and debt collection practices.
The parties continue to discussalso discussed a potential resolution involving injunctive relief, other non-monetary remedies and a payment to the CA Attorney General. TheGeneral and in the third quarter of 2016, the Company currently estimates that a reasonable range of loss for this matter is between $8.0 million and $20.0 million. The Company has accruedrecorded an expense of $8.0 million related to the cost of resolving this matter.
The parties did not reach a resolution and on November 29, 2017, the CA Attorney General filed suit against Ashford University and the Company.
The Company intends to vigorously defend this case and emphatically denies the allegations made by the CA Attorney General that it ever deliberately misled its students, falsely advertised its programs, or in any way was not fully accurate in its statements to investors. However, the outcome of this matter.legal proceeding is uncertain at this point because of the many questions of fact and law that may arise. At present, the Company cannot reasonably estimate any updated range of loss for this action based on currently available information and as such, the prior accrual of $8.0 million remains.
Massachusetts Attorney General Investigation of Bridgepoint Education, Inc. and Ashford University
On July 21, 2014, the Company and Ashford University received from the Attorney General of the State of Massachusetts (the “MA(“MA Attorney General”) a Civil Investigative Demand (the “MA(“MA CID”) relating to the MA Attorney General’s investigation of for-profit educational institutions and whether the university’s business practices complied with Massachusetts consumer protection laws. Pursuant to the MA CID, the MA Attorney General has requested from the Company and Ashford University documents and information for the time period January 1, 2006 to present. The Company is cooperating with the investigation and cannot predict the eventual scope, duration or outcome of the investigation at this time.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Subpoena of Bridgepoint Education, Inc. and Ashford University
On August 10, 2015, the Company and Ashford University received from the CFPB Civil Investigative Demands related to the CFPB’s investigation to determine whether for-profit postsecondary education companies or other unnamed persons have engaged in or are engaging in unlawful acts or practices related to the advertising, marketing or origination of private student loans. The Company and Ashford University provided documents and other information to the CFPB and the CFPB attended several meetingshas not accrued any liability associated with representatives from the Company and the CA Attorney General’s office to discuss the status of both investigations, additional information requests, and specific concerns related to possible unfair business practices in connection with the Company’s recruitment of students and debt collection practices.
All of the parties met again in the spring of 2016 to discuss the status of the investigations and explore a potential joint resolution involving injunctive relief, other non-monetary remedies and a payment to the CA Attorney General and the CFPB. On September 7, 2016, the Company consented to the issuance of a Consent Order (the “Consent Order”) by the CFPB in full resolution of the CFPB’s allegations stemming from the Civil Investigative Demands. The Consent Order includes payment by the Company of $8.0 million in penalties to the CFPB and approximately $5.0 million to be used for restitution to students who incurred debt from student loans made by the Company’s institutions, and forgiveness by the Company of approximately $18.6 million of outstanding institutional loan debt. The Consent Order also outlines certain compliance actions the Company must undertake, including that the Company must require certain students to utilize the CFPB’s Electronic Financial Impact Platform before enrolling in one of the Company’s institutions, the Company must implement a compliance plan designed to ensure its institutional loan program complies with the terms of the Consent Order, and the Company must submit reports describing its compliance with the Consent Order to the CFPB at designated times and upon request by the CFPB. The institutional loan programs were discontinued by the Company’s institutions before the CFPB investigation began. As of the end of the first quarter of 2017, the amount accrued related to this matter was paid in full.


22



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

action.
Department of Justice Civil Investigative Demand
On July 7, 2016, the Company received from the U.S. Department of Justice (the “DOJ”(“DOJ”) a Civil Investigative Demand (the “DOJ(“DOJ CID”) related to the DOJ's investigation concerning allegations that the Company may have misstated Title IV refund revenue or overstated revenue associated with private secondary loan programs and thereby misrepresented its compliance with the 90/10 rule of the Higher Education Act. Pursuant to the DOJ CID, the DOJ has requested from the Company documents and information for fiscal years 2011-2014.2011 to 2015. The Company is cooperating with the DOJ and cannot predict the eventual scope, duration or outcome of the investigation at this time. The Company has not accrued any liability associated with this action.
Securities Class Action
Zamir v. Bridgepoint Education, Inc., et al.
On February 24, 2015, a securities class action complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California by Nelda Zamir naming the Company, Andrew Clark and Daniel Devine as defendants. The complaint asserts violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, claiming that the defendants made false and materially misleading statements and failed to disclose material adverse facts regarding the Company’s business, operations and prospects, specifically regarding the Company’s improper application of revenue recognition methodology to assess collectability of funds owed by students. The complaint asserts a putative class period stemming from August 7, 2012 to May 30, 2014 and seeks unspecified monetary relief, interest and attorneys’ fees. On July 15, 2015, the Court granted plaintiff’s motion for appointment as lead plaintiff and for appointment of lead counsel.
On September 18, 2015, the plaintiff filed a substantially similar amended complaint that asserts a putative class period stemming from March 12, 2013 to May 30, 2014. The amended complaint also names Patrick Hackett, Adarsh Sarma, Warburg Pincus & Co., Warburg Pincus LLC, Warburg Pincus Partners LLC, and Warburg Pincus Private Equity VIII, L.P. as additional defendants. On November 24, 2015, all defendants filed motions to dismiss. On July 25, 2016, the Court granted the motions to dismiss and granted plaintiff leave to file an amended complaint within 30 days. Plaintiffs subsequently filed a second amended complaint and the Company filed a second motion to dismiss on October 24, 2016, which was granted by the Court with leave to amend. Plaintiffs filed a third amended complaint on April 19, 2017 and the defendants filed a third motion to dismiss, which is currently pending with the court. The outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain at this point because of the many questions of fact and law that may arise. The Company has not accrued any liability associated with this action.
Shareholder Derivative Actions
In re Bridgepoint, Inc. Shareholder Derivative Action
On July 24, 2012, a shareholder derivative complaint was filed in California Superior Court by Alonzo Martinez. In the complaint, the plaintiff asserts a derivative claim on the Company’s behalf against certain of its current and former officers and directors. The complaint is captioned Martinez v. Clark, et al. and generally alleges that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties of candor, good faith and loyalty, wasted corporate assets and were unjustly enriched. The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary relief and disgorgement on behalf of the Company, as well as other equitable relief and attorneys’ fees. On September 28, 2012, a substantially similar shareholder derivative complaint was filed in California Superior Court by David Adolph-Laroche. In the complaint, the plaintiff asserts a derivative claim on the Company’s behalf against certain of its current and former officers and directors. The complaint is captioned Adolph-Laroche v. Clark, et al. and generally alleges that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties of candor, good faith and loyalty, wasted corporate assets and were unjustly enriched.


30



ZOVIO INC
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

On October 11, 2012, the Adolph-Laroche action was consolidated with the Martinez action and the case is now captioned In re Bridgepoint, Inc. Shareholder Derivative Action. A consolidated complaint was filed on December 18, 2012 and the defendants filed a motion to stay the case while the underlying securities class action is pending. The motion was granted by the Court on April 11, 2013. A status conference was held on October 10, 2013, during which the Court ordered the stay continued for the duration of discovery in the underlying securities class action, but permitted the plaintiff to receive copies of any discovery responses served in the underlying securities class action. The stay was lifted following the settlement of the


23



BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

underlying securities class action and all defendants filed demurrers on October 3, 2016, which were granted with leave to amend on October 6, 2017.
Reardon v. Clark, et al.
On March 18, 2015,October 17, 2017, the plaintiff submitted a shareholder derivative complaint waslitigation demand to the Company's Board of Directors, which appointed a working group to evaluate the demand. The Board refused the demand and the Plaintiff filed in the Superior Court of the State of California in San Diego. The complaint asserts derivative claimsa Second Amended Complaint on the Company’s behalf against certain of its current and former officers and directors. The complaint is captioned Reardon v. Clark, et al. and generally alleges that the individualOctober 3, 2018. All defendants breached their fiduciary duties of candor, good faith and loyalty, wasted corporate assets andfiled demurrers on December 21, 2018, which were unjustly enriched. The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary relief and disgorgement, as well as other equitable relief and attorneys’ fees. Pursuant to a stipulation among the parties, on May 27, 2015,granted by the Court orderedon June 14, 2019. As a result, the Court entered a final order dismissing the case stayed during discovery in the underlying Zamir securities class action, but permitted theon July 8, 2019. The plaintiff to receive copies of any discovery conducted in the underlying Zamir securities class action.
Larson v. Hackett, et al.
On January 19, 2017, a shareholder derivative complaint was filed in the Superior Court of the State of California in San Diego. The complaint asserts derivative claims on the Company's behalf against certain of its current and former officers and directors. The complaint is captioned Larson v. Hackett, et al. and generally alleges that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties of candor, good faith and loyalty, wasted corporate assets and were unjustly enriched. The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary relief and disgorgement, as well as other equitable relief and attorneys’ fees. The parties have not yet responded to the complaint, but will most likely seek to have the case dismissed or stayed during discovery in the underlying Zamir securities class action.
Nieder v. Ashford University, LLC
On October 4, 2016, Dustin Niedersubsequently filed a purported class action against Ashford University in the Superior Courtnotice of the State of California in San Diego. The complaint is captioned Dustin Nieder v. Ashford University, LLC and generally alleges various wage and hour claims under California law for failure to pay overtime, failure to pay minimum wages and failure to provide rest and meal breaks. The lawsuit seeks back pay, the cost of benefits, penalties and interest on behalf of the putative class members, as well as other equitable relief and attorneys' fees. The Company filed an answer denying the claims and the case is currently in discovery. The outcome of this legal proceeding is uncertain at this point because of the many questions of fact and law that may arise.appeal. Based on information available to the Company at present, it cannot reasonably estimate a range of loss for this action. Accordingly, the Companyand accordingly has not accrued any liability associated with this action.
Stein Securities Class Action
On March 8, 2019, a securities class action complaint (the “Stein Complaint”) was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California by Shiva Stein naming the Company, Andrew Clark, Kevin Royal, and Joseph D’Amico as defendants (the “Defendants”). The Stein Complaint alleges that Defendants made false and materially misleading statements and failed to disclose material adverse facts regarding the Company's business, operations and prospects, specifically that the Company had applied an improper revenue recognition methodology to students enrolled in the FTG program. The Stein Complaint asserts a putative class period stemming from March 8, 2016 to March 7, 2019. The Stein Complaint alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. Plaintiff Stein was appointed lead plaintiff by the Court and filed a substantially similar amended complaint on October 1, 2019.
The Company is evaluating the amended complaint and intends to vigorously defend against it. However, because of the many questions of fact and law that may arise, the outcome of the legal proceeding is uncertain at this point. Based on information available to the Company at present, the Company cannot reasonably estimate a range of loss and accordingly has not accrued any liability associated with this action.
SEC Informal Inquiry
On March 27, 2019, the Company received notice that the SEC Division of Enforcement began an informal inquiry regarding the Company, requesting various documents relating to the Company’s accounting practices, including FTG revenue recognition, receivables and other matters relating to the Company’s previously disclosed intention to restate its condensed financial statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018.
Based on these requests, the eventual scope, duration and outcome of the inquiry cannot be predicted at this time. We are cooperating fully with the SEC in connection with the inquiry.
16. Subsequent Events
On October 7, 2019, the Company announced that in connection with the potential change of ownership and conversion of Ashford University to a nonprofit California public benefit corporation, the Department has provided a response to the request for review made on July 15, 2019. For further information, refer to Note 14, “Regulatory - U.S. Department of Education Abbreviated Preacquisition Review Letter” to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
In October 2019, the Company approved and executed upon a plan of restructuring, which includes the elimination of approximately 300 current positions as well as other cost-saving measures. The Company expects to record a restructuring charge of approximately $11.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2019, consisting of one-time termination benefits for employee severance, benefits and related costs.  This charge is expected to result in equivalent cash expenditures paid out over the next 12 months.
The Company evaluated events occurring between the end of its most recent fiscal year and the date of filing, noting no additional subsequent events.


2431


Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following Management’s Discussions and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1 of this report. For additional information regarding our financial condition and results of operations, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 (the “Form2018 (“Form 10-K”), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”(“SEC”) on March 7, 2017,12, 2019, as well as our consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included in Part II, Item 8 of the Form 10-K.
Unless the context indicates otherwise, in this report the terms “Bridgepoint,“Zovio,” “the Company,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to Bridgepoint Education, Inc.,Zovio Inc, a Delaware corporation, and its wholly owned and indirect subsidiaries.
Forward-Looking Statements
This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (the “Form 10-Q”) contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange(“Exchange Act”). All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding future events, future financial and operating results, strategies, expectations, the competitive environment, regulation and the availability of financial resources, including, without limitation, statements regarding:
Ashford University’s
our ability to continueeither (a) successfully convert Ashford University to operate an accredited institution subjecta nonprofit California public benefit corporation and for Ashford University to separate from the Company, including meeting all required conditions and obtaining all required approvals, or (b) consummate another strategic opportunity regarding Ashford University;

our ability to post and the impact of posting a letter of credit and meeting other conditions of the Department with respect to the requirementspotential conversion and separation of the State of California, Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education;Ashford University;

our ability to comply with the extensive and continually evolving regulatory framework applicable to us and our institutions,Ashford University, including Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (the “Higher(“Higher Education Act”), and its implementing regulations, the gainful employment rules and regulations, the “defensedefense to repayment”repayment regulations, state authorization regulations, state laws and regulatory requirements, and accrediting agency requirements;

projections, predictions and expectations regarding our business, financial position, results of operations, liquidity and liquidity,capital resources, and enrollment trends at Ashford University;
our institutions;
expectations regarding the effect of the closure of Ashford University’s residential campusanticipated seasonal fluctuations in Clinton, Iowa on our business;enrollment and operating results;
our ability to obtain continued approval of Ashford’s programs for GI Bill benefits through the Iowa State Approving Agency (the “ISAA”(“ISAA”), or the Arizona State Approving Agency (“ASAA”), or the California State Approving Agency for Veteran's Education (“CSAAVE”), and to prevent any disruption of educational benefits to Ashford’s veteran students;
new the ability of Ashford to continue participating in the U.S. Department of Defense Tuition Assistance Program for active duty military personnel and to prevent any disruption of educational benefits to Ashford’s active duty military students;
the outcome of various lawsuits, claims and legal proceedings;
initiatives focused on student success, retention and academic quality;
changes in our student fee structure;
expectations regarding the adequacy of our cash and cash equivalents and other sources of liquidity for ongoing operations;operations, planned capital expenditures and working capital requirements;
expectations regarding investment in online and other advertising and capital expenditures;
our anticipated seasonal fluctuationsability to remediate control deficiencies in resultsour disclosure controls and procedures;


32


the impact of operations;accounting standards on our financial statements;
management’sthe reasonableness and acceptance of our tax accruals;
management's goals and objectives; and
other similar matters that are not historical facts.
Forward-looking statements may generally be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar expressions, as well as statements in the future tense.
Forward-looking statements should not be interpreted as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at or by which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time such statements are made and the current good faith beliefs,


25


expectations and assumptions of management regarding future events. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual performance or results to differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. For a discussion of some of these risks and uncertainties, see Part II, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” as well as the discussion of such risks and uncertainties contained in our other filings with the SEC, including the Form 10-K.
All forward-looking statements in this report are qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements included in this report, and you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this report. We assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect actual results or any changes in our assumptions or expectations or any other factors affecting such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable securities laws. If we do update or revise one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.
Overview
Zovio Inc is an education technology services company that partners with higher education institutions and employers to deliver innovative, personalized solutions to help learners and leaders achieve their aspirations. We arewere formerly known as Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Our wholly-owned subsidiary, Ashford University® is a provider of postsecondary education services through our regionally accredited academic institutions, Ashford University® and University of the RockiesSM.institution, which delivers programs primarily online. Ashford University offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s programs, and University of the Rockies offers master’s and doctoral programs.programs primarily online. As of September 30, 20172019, our academic institutionsAshford University offered approximately 1,1401,220 courses and approximately 8090 degree programs. We are also focused on providing innovative technologies to enhance the student experience and support faculty and student engagement.
Key operating data
In evaluating our operating performance, management focuses in large part on our (i) revenue, and(ii) operating income (loss) and (iii) period-end enrollment at our academic institutions.Ashford University. The following table, which should be read in conjunction with our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item I1 of this report, presents our key operating data for each of the periods presented (in thousands, except for enrollment data):
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162019 2018 2019 2018
Consolidated Statement of Income (Loss) Data:     
Consolidated Statement of Income Data:     
Revenue$119,367
 $136,583
 $373,438
 $407,555
$104,251
 $112,846
 $321,510
 $348,660
Operating income (loss)$(1,503) $(8,823) $14,339
 $(21,765)$(7,849) $879
 $(35,373) $9,605
              
Consolidated Other Data:              
Period-end enrollment (1)
       36,349
 39,584
 36,349
 39,584
Online42,065
 47,733
 42,065
 47,733
Campus-based67
 98
 67
 98
Total42,132
 47,831
 42,132
 47,831
(1)We define period-end enrollment as the number of active students on the last day of the financial reporting period. A student is considered active if the student has attended a class within the prior 15 days or is on an institutionally-approved break not to exceed 45 days, unless the student has graduated or provided notice of withdrawal.


33


days, unless the student has graduated or provided notice of withdrawal, or for new students who have completed their third week of attendance, and posted attendance in the fourth week.
Key enrollment trends
Enrollment at our academic institutionsAshford University decreased 11.9%8.2% to 42,13236,349 students at September 30, 20172019 as compared to 47,83139,584 students at September 30, 2016.2018. Enrollment decreased by 6.6%4.7% since the end of the preceding fiscal year, from 45,08738,153 students at December 31, 20162018 to 42,13236,349 students at September 30, 2017.2019.
We believe the decline innew enrollment over the past few years is partially attributable to a general weakening in the overall industry due to increased regulatory scrutiny, and has also been caused by the initiatives our institutions have put in place to help ensure student preparedness, raise academic quality and improve student outcomes. In addition, we believe total enrollment has also been impacted by the recentdeliberate changes in our marketing strategy. This changestrategy in which we significantly reduced our spending in the affiliate channel and reinvested some of those savings in other channels. We have been implementing this updated marketing strategy


26


that reflects a shift in our advertising mix, in an effort to attract prospective students who have a higher probability of being academically successful, while concurrentlywith the goal of making meaningful improvements to the efficiency of our advertising, admissions and marketing spend.
We believe the decline in enrollment is partially attributable to a general weakening in the overall education industry due in large part to increased regulatory scrutiny, as well as due to general strengthening of the economy which drives lower unemployment and increased competition. Additionally, as described below, we generally experience a seasonal increase in new enrollments during the first quarter of each year, subsequent to holiday break.
We continue to focus our efforts on first stabilizing and then restarting enrollment growth. We recently received approval fromare also making investments in the Department of Education on 16 new programsworkflow along the student lifecycle to better support our incoming and are looking forward to offering these programs tocurrent students. We plan to launch a number of these new program offerings throughout 2018 and beyond to help achieve this goal relating to restarting new enrollment growth and over time growing total enrollments. One other area in which we continue to experienceare experiencing positive enrollment trends is within our Educationalthe Education Partnerships programs with various employers. These corporate partnership programs provideinclude the Corporate Full Tuition Grant (“FTG”) program, which provides companies with the opportunity to allowoffer their employees a way to pursue and complete a college degree without incurring any student debt. Enrollments through thesein the Education Partnerships programs remains relatively small compared toaccount for approximately 30% of our total enrollment but are growing as a percentage year over year.of September 30, 2019. Revenue derived from Education Partnerships is cash pay, and is therefore not considered federal student aid for purposes of calculations under the 90/10 rule.
Trends and uncertainties regarding revenue and continuing operations
Restructuring and impairment charges
We have implemented various restructuring plans to better align our resources with our business strategy and the related charges are recorded in the restructuring and impairment chargesexpense line item on our condensed consolidated statements of income (loss). The restructuring and impairment charges are primarily comprised of (i) severance costs related to headcount reductions, (ii) estimated lease costs related to facilities vacated or consolidated, (iii) charges related to the write-off of certain fixed assets and assets abandoned and (iv) student transfer agreement costs for Ashford University ground-based students. As required by GAAP, the estimated lease losses include sublease assumptions. Changes to these estimates could have a material impact on the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements. For information regarding the restructuring and impairment charges recorded, refer to Note 3,5, “Restructuring and Impairment Charges”Expense” to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this report.Form 10-Q.
In October 2019, the Company approved and executed upon a plan of restructuring, which includes the elimination of approximately 300 current positions as well as other cost-saving measures. The Company expects to record a restructuring charge of approximately $11.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2019, consisting of one-time termination benefits for employee severance, benefits and related costs. This charge is expected to result in equivalent cash expenditures paid out over the next 12 months. This restructuring plan is anticipated to reduce expenses by approximately $51 million in 2020.
Proposed conversion transaction
Ashford University submitted a change in control and legal status application (the “Change of Control Application”) to the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (“WSCUC”) seeking approval to convert to a nonprofit California public benefit corporation, and separate from the Company (the “Conversion Transaction”).
On July 12, 2019, WSCUC notified Ashford University that it had approved the Change of Control Application for the Conversion Transaction. The approval is subject to certain conditions which must be met prior to the close of the Conversion Transaction, including divestiture of financial and ownership interest in the Company by all Ashford University officers and related parties and submission of a revised services agreement with respect to the Conversion Transaction, including the incorporation of key performance indicators into that agreement. WSCUC is also requiring a post-implementation site visit of Ashford University within six months of the close of the Conversion Transaction. As part of the Conversion Transaction, Ashford University would become an independent, self-governed, nonprofit institution. Following the Conversion Transaction,


34


the Company plans to operate as an education technology services company that will provide certain services to Ashford University and potentially, in the future, to other customers. On the same date, WSCUC also notified Ashford University that it had reaffirmed its accreditation for six years.
On October 7, 2019, the Company announced that in connection with the Conversion Transaction, the Department has provided a response (the “Abbreviated Preacquisition Review Letter”) to the request for review made on July 15, 2019. The request for an abbreviated preacquisition review was made in accordance with Department procedures pursuant to which the Department provides information about conditions it intends to impose in connection with the continued participation in federal Title IV student financial aid programs by the applicant following a change in ownership.
In the Abbreviated Preacquisition Review Letter, along with other conditions, the Department indicated that it would require the posting of an irrevocable letter of credit with the Department within ten days of the Conversion Transaction for approximately $103 million, representing the Department’s determination of 25% of the Title IV funding in fiscal year 2018 (the “25% LOC”). This letter of credit would require coverage until March 31, 2021 unless extended or replaced as determined by the Department.
The Company is considering various financial and insurance instruments that will allow the Company’s cash on the balance sheet to remain unrestricted. Once finalized, we may continue to pursue the Conversion Transaction with Ashford University. We are also exploring other strategic opportunities regarding Ashford University, including the possible sale of the university to another institution where we would enter into an education technology services agreement with the acquirer. Such an arrangement may likely not require the posting of the 25% LOC with the Department. It may also likely not require the Company to make a substantial cash contribution to Ashford University which is currently contemplated by the Conversion Transaction.
Acquisition of Fullstack Academy
On April 1, 2019, we acquired Fullstack Academy, Inc. (“Fullstack”), a Delaware corporation, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization entered into by the parties on March 12, 2019 (the “Fullstack Acquisition”). Following the Fullstack Acquisition, Fullstack became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.
For information refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Acquisition of TutorMe
On April 3, 2019, we acquired TutorMe.com, Inc., a California corporation (“TutorMe”) pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization entered into by the parties on April 3, 2019 (“TutorMe Acquisition”). TutorMe is an online education platform that provides on-demand tutoring and online courses. Following the TutorMe Acquisition, TutorMe became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.
For information refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.
Valuation allowance
We recognize deferred tax assets if realization of such assets is more-likely-than-not. In order to make this determination, we evaluate factors including the ability to generate future taxable income from reversing taxable temporary differences, forecasts of financial and taxable income or loss, and the ability to carryback certain operating losses to refund taxes paid in prior years.loss. The cumulative loss incurred over the three-year period ended September 30, 20172019 constituted significant negative objective evidence against our ability to realize a benefit from our federal deferred tax assets. Such objective evidence limited our ability to consider in our evaluation of other subjective evidence such as our projections for future growth. On the basis of our evaluation, we determined that our deferred tax assets were not more-likely-than-not to be realized and that a valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets should continue to be maintained as of September 30, 2017.2019.


35


Recent Regulatory Developments
Negotiated Rulemaking and Other Executive Action
On December 16, 2016,July 31, 2018, the Department released finalpublished a notice in the Federal Register announcing its intention to establish a negotiated rulemaking committee (the “Rulemaking Committee”) to prepare proposed regulations to clarify state authorization requirements for postsecondary institutions offering distance education that participate in federal student loanthe Federal Student Aid programs as required byauthorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act. Among other things,Act of 1965, as amended. In September 2018, interested parties commented at three public hearings on the finaltopics suggested by the Department in the notice, and suggested additional topics for consideration for action by the Rulemaking Committee.
The Rulemaking Committee met from January through March of 2019 on topics related to accreditation, competency-based education, state approval of online programs, and distance learning. The Rulemaking Committee reached consensus on all topics and the Department issued proposed regulations (i) require institutions offering distance education or correspondence coursesbased on that consensus on June 12, 2019 to be authorized by each state in which they enroll students, if such authorization is required by the state, (ii) require institutions to document the state process for resolving student complaints regarding distance education programs, (iii) require public and individualized disclosures to enrolled and prospective students in distance education programs, including disclosures regarding adverse actions taken against the institution, the institution’s refund policies and whether each of the institution’s programs meet applicable state licensure or certification requirements, and (iv) require institutions to explain to students the consequences of moving to a state where the school is not authorized, which could include loss of eligibility for federal student aid. The final regulations recognize authorization through participation in a state authorization reciprocity agreement, as long as the agreement does not prevent a state from enforcing its own consumer laws. The final regulations are scheduled to take effecteffective on July 1, 2018.2020.
The Department proposes, among other things to: (1) define the roles and responsibilities of accrediting agencies, States, and the Department in oversight of institutions participating in the Federal Student Aid programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (Title IV, Higher Education Act programs); (2) establish ‘‘substantial compliance’’ as the standard for agency recognition; (3) modify ‘‘substantive change’’ requirements to provide greater flexibility to institutions to innovate and respond to the needs of students and employers, while maintaining strict agency oversight in instances of more complicated or higher risk changes in institutional mission, program mix, or level of credential offered; (4) clarify the Department’s accrediting agency recognition process, including accurate recognition of the geographic area within which an agency conducts business; and (5) modify the requirements for state authorization.
For additional information regarding state authorization, see the “State Authorization for Distance Education Rules” section below. For information regarding additional negotiated rulemaking, see also the “Gainful Employment” and “Defense to Repayment” sections below.
Gainful Employment
OnIn October 31, 2014, the Department published gainful employment regulations impacting programs required to prepare


27


graduates for gainful employment in a recognized occupation. Almost all academic programs offered by Title IV-participating private sector institutions of higher education must prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation. The gainful employment regulations became effective July 1, 2015, with certain institutional disclosure requirements thatwhich became effective in early 2017. The
On July 1, 2019, the Department of Education published a final rule rescinding the Department’s 2014 gainful employment regulations. The Higher Education Act (“HEA”) requires that regulations have a framework with three components:
Certification: Institutions must certify that each of their gainful employmentaffecting programs meet state and federal licensure, certification and accreditation requirements.
Accountability Measures: To maintainunder Title IV eligibility, gainful employment programs willof the HEA be required to meet minimum standards for the debt burden versus the earnings of their graduates.
Pass: Programs whose graduates have annual loan payments less than 8% of total earnings or less than 20% of discretionary earnings.
Zone: Programs whose graduates have annual loan payments between 8% and 12% of total earnings or between 20% and 30% of discretionary earnings.
Fail: Programs whose graduates have annual loan payments greater than 12% of total earnings and greater than 30% of discretionary earnings.
Programs that failpublished in two out of any three consecutive years or are in the Zone for four consecutive years will be disqualified from participation in the Title IV programs.
Transparency: Institutions will be required to make public disclosures regarding the performance and outcomes of their gainful employment programs. The disclosures will include information such as costs, earnings, debt and completion rates.
The accountability measures will typically weigh a calculated debt burden from graduates who completed their studies three and four yearsfinal form by November 1, prior to the measuring academicstart of the award year and earnings from(July 1) to which they become effective. This section also permits the most recent calendar year priorSecretary to designate any regulation as one that an entity subject to the conclusionregulations may choose to implement earlier, as well as conditions for early implementation. The Department designated the regulatory changes for early implementation, and an institution that early implements the rescission must document its early implementation internally. Ashford University has chosen and documented early implementation.
Institutions that have early implemented the rescission of the measuring academic year. Thus for the 2014-2015 academic year, the two-year cohort will include graduates from the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 academic years and earnings for these graduates from calendar year 2014.
On October 20, 2016, we received draft debt-to-earnings rates and certain underlying data from the Department for the first gainful employment measurement year, and on January 8, 2017 we received our institutions’ final debt-to-earnings rates for the firstrule are not required to report gainful employment measurement year. Based ondata to the final rates, none of our programs were determinedNational Student Loan Data System (“NSLDS”). Additionally, those institutions that have early implemented are not required to fail. Two of our current programs, includinginclude the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education and the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education/Administration, were determined to be in the zone. At September 30, 2017, approximately 3% of our institutions' students were enrolled in the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education and approximately 8% of our institutions' students were enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education/Administration. During the three months ended September 30, 2017, we derived revenue of approximately $3.8 million from the Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education and approximately $11.3 million from the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education/Administration. The Company is currently working to determine what, if any, measures it might implement in order to bring these programs into the “pass” category.
The fact that none of our programs were determined to fail and only two of our current programs were determined to be in the zone is significant given the framework discussed above, as a program would be disqualified from participation in Title IV programs only if it were to fail for two out of three consecutive years, or either fail or be in the zone for three out of four consecutive years. The gainful employment regulations contemplate a transition period in the first several years to afford institutions the opportunity to make changes to their programs and retain Title IV eligibility.
On June 15, 2017, the Department announced its intention to conduct additional negotiated rulemaking on certain issues related to gainful employment. On June 30, 2017, the Department also granted institutions until July 1, 2018 to comply with disclosure provisions related to promotional materials and prospective students, and extended the deadline for all programs to file alternate earnings appeals to a soon to be announced date. The Department did not change a July 1, 2017 deadline requiring institutions to provide a completed disclosure template, or a link thereto, onin their gainful employment program Web pagespromotional materials and our schoolsdirectly distribute the disclosure template to prospective students. Institutions that have complied with this requirement.


28


We continueearly implemented are no longer required to review the information provided by the Department to understand the potential impact ofpost the gainful employment regulations on our programs,disclosure template and we will continuemay remove the template and any other gainful employment disclosures from their web pages. Finally, an institution that has early implemented is not required to evaluate options related to new programs or adjustments to current programs that could help mitigatecomply with the potential adverse consequences of the regulations.certification requirements for gainful employment programs.
Defense to Repayment
On June 8, 2015,October 28, 2016, the Department announcedpublished borrower defense to repayment regulations to change processes that will be established to assist students who may have been the victims of fraud in gaining relief under the “defense to repayment”certain provisions of the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program regulations. Rarely used in the past, theThe defense to repayment provisions currentlythen in effect allowallowed a student to assert as a defense against repayment of federal direct loans any commission of fraud or other violation of applicable state law by the school related to such loans or the educational services for which the loans were provided.
On June 16, 2016, the Department published proposed regulations regarding The borrower defense to repayment regulations were to become effective July 1, 2017.


36


On June 14, 2017, the Department announced a postponement of the 2016 defense to repayment regulations and related matters, andits intention to resubmit the regulations through the negotiated rulemaking process. The Department announced an additional postponement on October 28, 2016,24, 2017. On February 14, 2018, the Department announced that it was postponing the effective date of this rule until July 1, 2019, so that it could complete the negotiated rulemaking process and develop the new regulations. Because the negotiated rulemaking committee did not reach consensus, the Department published itsa proposed regulation through a notice of proposed rulemaking (“NPRM”), took public comment, and planned to issue final regulations with anby November 1, 2018, effective date of July 1, 2017.2019. This did not occur.
In September and October of 2018, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a series of orders and opinions holding these procedural delays by the Department to be improper. The newCourt reinstated the 2016 repayment regulations as of October 16, 2018.
The 2016 defense to repayment regulations allow a borrower to assert a defense to repayment on the basis of a substantial misrepresentation, any other misrepresentation in cases where certain other factors are present, a breach of contract or a favorable nondefault contested judgment against a school for its act or omission relating to the making of the borrower’s loan or the provision of educational services for which the loan was provided. In addition, the financial responsibility standards contained in the new regulations establish the conditions or events that trigger the requirement for an institution to provide the Department with financial protection in the form of a letter of credit or other security against potential institutional liabilities. Triggering conditions or events include, among others, certain state, federal or accrediting agency actions or investigations, and in the case of publicly traded companies, receipt of certain warnings from the SEC or the applicable stock exchange, or the failure to timely file a required annual or quarterly report with the SEC. The new regulations also prohibit schools from requiring that students agree to settle future disputes through arbitration.
On June 14, 2017,March 15, 2019, the Department announced a postponementissued guidance for the implementation of parts of the regulations. The guidance covers an institution's responsibility in regard to reporting mandatory and discretionary triggers as part of the financial responsibility standards, class action bans and pre-dispute arbitration agreements, submission of arbitral and judicial records, and repayment rates. We will continue to monitor guidance on or changes to these 2016 regulations that are currently in effect subject to the early implementation of the 2019 regulations described below.
On August 30, 2019, the Department finalized the regulations derived from the 2017-2018 negotiated rulemaking process and subsequent public comments. This version of the borrower defense regulations applies to all federal student loans made on or after July 1, 2020, and, among other things: grants borrowers the right to assert borrower defense to repayment claims against institutions, regardless of whether the loan is in default or in collection proceedings; allows borrowers to file defense to repayment claims three years from either the student's date of graduation or withdrawal from the institution; and gives students the ability to allege a specific amount of financial harm and to obtain relief in an amount determined by the Department, which may be greater or lesser than their original claim amount. It also includes financial triggers and other factors for recalculating an institution's financial responsibility composite score that differ from those in the 2016 regulations.
The regulations and its intention to resubmitwill take effect July 1, 2020; however, the regulations relating to financial responsibility will be available for early implementation. We are currently considering the costs and benefits of the early implementation option.
State Authorization for Distance Education Rules
On December 19, 2016, the Department of Education published regulations related to state authorization of distance education effective July 1, 2018. On July 3, 2018, the Department published a notice delaying the effective date of the regulations until July 1, 2020, and proceeded to develop alternative regulations through theconsensus language which was achieved during a 2019 negotiated rulemaking process. The Department announced an additional postponement on October 24, 2017. While rulemaking occurs,However, the National Education Association and others filed a legal challenge to the delay in the United States District Court, Northern District of California, asking that the 2016 state authorization regulations be allowed to go into effect. On April 26, 2019, the Court vacated the Department’s delay of the 2016 state authorization regulations and reinstated the regulations effective May 26, 2019. Although the Department will continuehas stated that it intends to process claims underpublish the current borrower defense rules.alternative regulations for early implementation as soon as possible, we are currently evaluating the impact of the 2016 state authorization regulations and may incur additional costs and regulatory burdens and risks during the interim period.


37


Cohort Default Rate
For each federal fiscal year, the Department calculates a rate of student defaults over a three-year measuring period for each educational institution, which is known as a “cohort default rate.” An institution may lose its eligibility to participate in the Direct Loan Program and the Federal Pell Grant Program if, for each of the three most recent federal fiscal years, 30% or more of its students who became subject to a repayment obligation in that federal fiscal year defaulted on such obligation by the end of the following federal fiscal year.
The most recent official three-year cohort default rates for Ashford University for the 2014, 20132016, 2015 and 20122014 federal fiscal years were 14.9%13.7%, 14.5%13.5% and 15.3%, respectively. The most recent official three-year cohort default rates for University of the Rockies for the 2014, 2013 and 2012 federal fiscal years were 5.5%, 3.8% and 4.3%14.9%, respectively.
For additional information regarding the regulatory environment and related risks, see Part I, Item 1, “Business” and Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Form 10-K.
Seasonality
Our operations are generally subject to seasonal trends. We generally experience a seasonal increase in new enrollments during the first quarter of each year, subsequent to holiday break, as well as during the third quarter each year, when most other colleges and universities begin their fall semesters. While we enroll students throughout the year, our fourth quarter revenue generally is lower than other quarters due to the holiday break in December, with an increase in the first quarter of each year.
Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates
The critical accounting policies and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements are described in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates” included in Part II, Item 7 of the Form 10-K.
On January 1, 2019, the Company adopted ASU 2016-02, Leases (ASC 842), using the modified retrospective method. For information regarding the impact of this recent accounting pronouncements, refer to Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Recent Accounting Pronouncements” as well as Note 10, “Lease Obligations” to our condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report.
Business Combinations
We use the acquisition method of accounting for business combinations. This method requires the use of significant estimates, assumptions and judgments in the determination of the estimated fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in order to properly allocate the purchase price at the acquisition date. The allocation of the purchase price for acquisitions requires extensive use of accounting estimates and judgments to allocate the purchase price to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective fair values. The estimates, assumptions and judgments are based in part on historical experience, industry data, information obtained from the management of the acquired companies and assistance from independent third-party appraisal firms. Examples of critical estimates include assigning values to the acquired identifiable intangible assets and valuing contingent consideration and earnout liabilities. For further information regarding the acquisitions, refer to Note 3, “Business Combinations” to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
There were no other material changes to these critical accounting policies and estimates during the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2017.2019.


29


The Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012
During the three months ended September 30, 2017, Santander Asset Management Investment Holdings Limited (“SAMIH”) engaged in certain activities that are subject to disclosure pursuant to Section 219 of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 and Section 13(r) of the Exchange Act. These activities are disclosed in Exhibit 99.1 to this report. Affiliates of Warburg Pincus, LLC (i) beneficially own more than 10% of our outstanding common stock and are members of our board of directors and (ii) beneficially own more than 10% of the equity interests of and have the right to designate members of the board of directors of SAMIH. We will be required to separately file with the SEC, concurrently with this report, a notice that such activities have been disclosed in this report, which notice must also contain the information required by Section 13(r) of the Exchange Act.


3038


Results of Operations
The following table sets forth our condensed consolidated statements of income (loss) data as a percentage of revenue for each of the periods indicated:
Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
2017 2016 2017 20162019 2018 2019 2018
Revenue100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %
Costs and expenses:              
Instructional costs and services48.4
 46.9
 48.7
 49.1
49.2
 48.8
 49.2
 47.6
Admissions advisory and marketing36.6
 38.5
 35.4
 38.5
39.1
 37.1
 41.9
 37.3
General and administrative9.6
 8.5
 9.9
 9.0
16.7
 12.2
 17.4
 11.2
Legal settlement expense
 12.3
 
 8.1

 
 
 0.0
Restructuring and impairment charges6.7
 0.3
 2.1
 0.7
Restructuring and impairment expense2.4
 1.1
 2.5
 1.1
Total costs and expenses101.3
 106.5
 96.1
 105.4
107.4
 99.2
 111.0
 97.2
Operating income (loss)(1.3) (6.5) 3.9
 (5.4)(7.4) 0.8
 (11.0) 2.8
Other income, net0.3
 0.4
 0.3
 0.5
0.1
 0.3
 0.3
 0.3
Income (loss) before income taxes(1.0) (6.1) 4.2
 (4.9)(7.3) 1.1
 (10.7) 3.1
Income tax expense (benefit)(1.0) 0.9
 (0.2) (0.9)
Income tax benefit(0.1) (0.4) (0.8) (2.1)
Net income (loss) % (7.0)% 4.4 % (4.0)%(7.2)% 1.5 % (9.9)% 5.2 %
Three Months Ended September 30, 20172019 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 20162018
Revenue. Our revenue for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, was $119.4$104.3 million and $112.8 million, respectively, representing a decrease of $17.2$8.5 million, or 12.6%, as compared to revenue of $136.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016.7.6%. The decrease between periods was primarily due to a decrease of 11.3%6.4% in average weekly enrollment at our academic institutions, from 47,65739,107 students for the three monthsmonth period ended September 30, 20162018 to 42,28036,590 students for the three monthsmonth period ended September 30, 2017. Tuition2019. As a result of the decrease in enrollments, tuition revenue decreased by approximately $15.4 million, which is primarily due to the decrease in average weekly enrollment, partially offset by the approximate 2.0% tuition increase on April 1, 2017.$5.7 million. The decrease in revenue between periods was also due to higher scholarships for the period, an increase of $0.6$5.5 million. The overall revenue decrease was partially offset by net revenue from subsidiaries of $3.6 million, as well as a decreasean increase in net revenue generated from course digital materials of approximately $0.5 million.$1.2 million, and a tuition increase, effective as of January 1, 2019.
Instructional costs and services. Our instructional costs and services for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, were $57.8$51.4 million and $55.1 million, respectively, representing a decrease of $6.3$3.7 million, or 9.9%, as compared to6.7%. Specific decreases between periods primarily include bad debt of $4.5 million and corporate support services of $2.0 million, partially offset by an increase in direct compensation of $1.0 million, instructional supplies of $0.9 million, and other subsidiary costs of $0.8 million. Instructional costs and services, as a percentage of $64.1 millionrevenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2016. In addition to the decline in enrollment, specific decreases between periods primarily include decreases in direct compensation (including financial aid processing fees) of $2.2 million, corporate support services of $2.1 million, instructor fees of $1.0 million, license fees of $1.0 million,2019 and facilities costs of $0.8 million, partially offset by2018, were 49.2% and 48.8%, respectively, representing an increase in information technology costs of $0.6 million. Instructional costs and services increased as a percentage of revenue to 48.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2017, as compared to 46.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2016. The0.4%. This increase of 1.5% as a percentage of revenue primarily included increases in information technologydirect compensation of 2.4%, instructional supplies of 0.9%, and other subsidiary costs of 1.0% and0.8%, partially offset by a decrease in bad debt of 0.7%3.8%. As a percentage of revenue, bad debt expense was 6.3%2.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2017,2019, compared to 5.6%6.6% for three months ended September 30, 2016.2018.
Admissions advisory and marketing. Our admissions advisory and marketing expenses for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, were $43.7$40.8 million and $41.9 million, respectively, representing a decrease of $8.9$1.1 million, or 17.0%, as compared to admissions advisory and marketing expenses of $52.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016. As a result of our change in marketing strategy and the shift in advertising mix, specific2.5%. Specific factors contributing to the overall decrease between periods were decreases in compensation of $5.4 million, advertising costs of $2.4 million, compensation of $1.5 million, and facilitiestransaction costs of $1.7 million,$0.3 million. These decreases were partially offset by an increaseincreases in corporate support services of $1.1$1.8 million and other subsidiary costs of $1.4 million. AsAdmissions advisory and marketing, as a percentage of revenue, our admissions advisory and marketing expenses decreased to 36.6% for the three months ended September 30, 2017, as compared to 38.5% for the three months ended2019 and 2018, were 39.1% and 37.1%, respectively, representing an increase of 2.0%. This increase primarily included increases in corporate support services of 1.6% and other subsidiary costs of 1.3%, partially offset by decreases in advertising costs of 0.9% and compensation of 0.3%.


3139


September 30, 2016. The decrease of 1.9% as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to a decrease in compensation of 2.0%.
General and administrative. Our general and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, were $11.4$17.4 million and $13.7 million, respectively, representing a decreasean increase of $0.2$3.7 million, or 1.4%, as compared to general and administrative expenses of $11.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016. The decrease between periods was primarily due to decreases in facilities costs of $0.5 million and administrative compensation of $0.5 million, offset by increases in corporate support services of $1.0 million. Our general and administrative expenses increased as a percentage of revenue to 9.6% for the three months ended September 30, 2017, as compared to 8.5% for the three months ended September 30, 2016.26.6%. The increase of 1.1% as a percentage of revenuebetween periods was primarily due to increases in administrative compensation of 0.5%$3.9 million and professional fees of 0.4%.
Legal settlement expense. For the three months ended September 30, 2017, we had no$0.8 million, partially offset by a decrease in transaction costs of $1.2 million. General and administrative expenses, relating to legal settlements. The expenses for the costas a percentage of resolution of the previously disclosed civil investigative demands from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Attorney General of the State of Californiarevenue, for the three months ended September 30, 20162019 and 2018, were $16.8 million.16.7% and 12.2%, respectively, representing an increase of 4.5%. This increase was primarily due to increases in administrative compensation of 4.4%, and professional fees of 1.0%, partially offset by a decrease in transaction costs of 1.0%.
Restructuring and impairment charges. We had $8.0recorded a charge of approximately $2.5 million to restructuring and impairment charges for the three months ended September 30, 2017,2019, comprised primarily of severance costs resulting from a previous reduction in force, and costs associated with the Company relocating its headquarters from San Diego, California to Chandler, Arizona. For the three months ended September 30, 2018, we recorded a charge of $1.2 million to restructuring and impairment, comprised primarily of revised estimates of lease charges as well as severance costs resulting from a reduction in force. For the three months ended September 30, 2016, restructuring and impairment charges were $0.4 million, comprised primarily of severance costs resulting from a reduction in force.
Other income, net. Our other income, net, was approximately $0.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 and approximately $0.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2017 and $0.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016.2018. The decrease between periods was primarily due to decreased interest income on average cash balances.
Income tax expense (benefit).benefit. We recognized an income tax benefit of $1.2$0.1 million and an income tax expense of $1.2$0.4 million, for the three months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively, at effective tax rates of 103.4%1.9% and (14.7)(33.3)%, respectively.
Net income.income (loss). Our net incomeloss was $39,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2017, compared to net loss of $9.5$7.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2016, which represents2019, compared to net income of $1.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2018, a $9.5$9.3 million increasedecrease in net income as a result of the factors discussed above.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 20172019 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 20162018
Revenue. Our revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, was $373.4$321.5 million and $348.7 million, respectively, representing a decrease of $34.2$27.2 million, or 8.4%, as compared to revenue of $407.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.7.8%. The decrease between periods was primarily due to a decrease of 9.6%6.5% in average weekly enrollment at our academic institutions, from 49,20440,420 students duringfor the nine monthsmonth period ended September 30, 20162018 to 44,46937,794 students duringfor the nine monthsmonth period ended September 30, 2017. Tuition2019. As a result of the decrease in enrollments, tuition revenue decreased by approximately $33.8 million, which is primarily due to the decrease in average weekly enrollment, partially offset by the approximate 2.0% tuition increase on April 1, 2017.$14.0 million. The decrease in revenue between periods was also due to higher scholarships for the period, an increase of $18.8 million. The overall revenue decrease was partially offset by net revenue from subsidiaries of $6.2 million, a decreasetuition increase, effective as of January 1, 2019, as well as an increase in net revenue generated from course digital materials of approximately $1.5$0.4 million.
Instructional costs and services. Our instructional costs and services for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, were $181.9$158.4 million and $166.1 million, respectively, representing a decrease of $18.2$7.7 million, or 9.1%, as compared to instructional costs and services of $200.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.4.6%. In addition to the decline in enrollment, specific decreases between periods include direct compensation costsbad debt of $5.8$8.8 million, corporate support services of $4.9$3.0 million, and instructor fees of $3.5 million, facilities costs of $3.0 million, and license fees of $1.7 million,$0.9 million. These decreases were partially offset by an increaseincreases in information technologyinstructional supplies of $2.7 million and other subsidiary costs of $1.2$1.9 million. Instructional costs and services, decreased as a percentage of revenue, to 48.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, as compared to 49.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The decrease2019 and 2018, were 49.2% and 47.6%, respectively, representing an increase of 0.4% as a percentage of revenue1.6%. This increase primarily included decreasesincreases in corporate support servicesdirect compensation costs of 1.3%, instructional supplies of 0.9%, other subsidiary costs of 0.6%, information technology costs of 0.6%, and facilities costs of 0.5%,0.4%. These increases were partially offset by an increasea decrease in bad debt expense of 0.8%2.3%. As a percentage of revenue, bad debt expense was 6.5%3.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, compared to 5.8%5.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.2018.
Admissions advisory and marketing. Our admissions advisory and marketing expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, were $132.1$134.7 million and $130.0 million, respectively, representing a decreasean increase of $24.7$4.7 million, or 15.7%, as compared3.7%. Specific factors contributing to the overall increase between periods include increases in corporate support services of $3.2 million, other subsidiary costs of $2.8 million, consulting and professional fees of $1.3 million, advertising costs of $0.8 million, and license fees of $0.3 million. These increases were partially offset by decreases in compensation costs of $4.1 million. Our admissions


32


advisory and marketing expenses, as a percentage of $156.8 millionrevenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. As a result2019 and 2018, were 41.9% and 37.3%, respectively, representing an increase of our change4.6%. This increase primarily included increases in marketing strategy and the shift in advertising mix, specific factors contributing to the overall decrease between periods include decreases in compensation of $14.9 million, advertising costs of $7.7 million, facilities1.7%, other subsidiary costs of $5.5 million and information technology costs of $2.6 million. These decreases were partially offset by increases in0.9%, corporate support services of $5.1 million0.8%, consulting and professional fees of $0.5 million. As a percentage0.5%, license fees of revenue, our admissions advisory0.2%, and marketing expenses decreased to 35.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 as compared to 38.5% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The decrease of 3.1% as a percentage of revenue was primarily due to decreases in compensation of 2.3%, facilities costs of 1.2%, and advertising costs of 0.6%, partially offset by an increase in corporate support services of 1.1%0.2%.


40


General and administrative. Our general and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2018, were $37.0$55.8 million and $39.0 million, respectively, representing an increase of $0.3$16.8 million, or 0.8%, as compared to general and administrative expenses of $36.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.43.1%. The increase between periods was primarily due to an increaseincreases in administrative compensation of $9.1 million, acquisition costs of $6.7 million, and consulting and professional fees of $3.6$1.3 million, partially offset by decreases in other administrative costscorporate support services of $1.4 million, administrative compensation of $1.1 million, and facilities costs of $1.1$0.2 million. Our general and administrative expenses, increased as a percentage of revenue, to 9.9% for the nine months ended September 30, 2017, compared to 9.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. The2019 and 2018, were 17.4% and 11.2%, respectively, representing an increase of 0.9% as a percentage of revenue6.2%. This increase was primarily due to an increaseincreases in professional fees of 1.2% and administrative compensation of 0.4%3.5%, partially offset by a decrease in corporate support servicesacquisition costs of 0.5%2.1%, and other administrative costs of 0.7%.
Legal settlement expense. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, we had2019, there were no expenses relating to legal settlements. Thesettlement expenses. There were $0.1 million of legal settlement expenses for the cost of resolution of the previously disclosed civil investigative demands from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and the Attorney General of the State of California for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were $32.9 million.2018.
Restructuring and impairment charges. We had $8.0recognized $7.9 million of restructuring and impairment charges for the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, comprised primarily of severance costs resulting from a reduction in force, as well as revised estimates of lease charges, and costs associated with the Company relocating its headquarters from San Diego, California to Chandler, Arizona. For the nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recognized $3.8 million of restructuring and impairment charges, comprised primarily of revised estimates of lease charges as well as severance costs resulting from a reduction in force. For the nine months ended September 30, 2016, restructuring and impairment charges were $2.8 million, comprised primarily of severance costs resulting from a reduction in force.
Other income, net. Our other income, net, was $1.2$1.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, as compared to $1.9$0.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, representing a decreasean increase of $0.7$0.1 million. The decreaseincrease between periods was primarily due to decreasedincreased interest income on average cash balances.
Income tax expense (benefit).benefit. We recognized an income tax benefit of $0.7$2.5 million and $3.6$7.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, respectively, at effective tax rates of (4.6)%7.4% and 18.2%(71.8)%, respectively.
Net income (loss). Our net incomeloss was $16.2$31.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 20172019 compared to net lossincome of $16.3$18.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, representing a $32.5$49.9 million changedecrease as a result of the factors discussed above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We finance our operating activities and capital expenditures primarily through cash on hand and through cash provided by operating activities.hand. At September 30, 20172019 and December 31, 2016,2018, our cash and cash equivalents were $165.2$79.1 million and $307.8$166.3 million, respectively. At September 30, 20172019 and December 31, 2016,2018, we had total restricted cash of $19.9$25.7 million and $24.5 million, respectively,$24.3 million. The balances at September 30, 2019 and December 31, 2018 had investments of $27.02.4 million and $49.4$2.1 million,, respectively. At September 30, 2017,2019, we had no long-term debt.
We manage our excess cash pursuant to the quantitative and qualitative operational guidelines of our cash investment policy. Our cash investment policy, which is managed by our Chief Financial Officer, has the following primary objectives: (i) preserving principal, (ii) meeting our liquidity needs, (iii) minimizing market and credit risk, and (iv) providing after-tax returns. Under the policy’s guidelines, we invest our excess cash exclusively in high-quality, U.S. dollar-denominated financial instruments. For a discussion of the measures we use to mitigate the exposure of our cash investments to market risk, credit risk and interest rate risk, see Part I, Item 3, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.”Risk” in this Form 10-Q.
There was a slight increase in the fair value of our investments at September 30, 20172019 as compared to December 31, 20162018. We believe that any fluctuations we have recently experienced are temporary in nature and that while some of our


33


securities are classified as available-for-sale, we have the ability and intent to hold them until maturity, if necessary, to recover their full value.
Title IV and other governmental funding
Our institutions deriveAshford University derives the substantial majority of theirits respective revenues from students who enroll and are eligible for various federal student financial assistance programs authorized under Title IV of the Higher Education Act. Our institutions areAshford University is subject to significant regulatory scrutiny as a result of numerous standards that must be satisfied in order to participate in Title IV programs. For additional information regarding Title IV programs and the regulation thereof, see “Business—Regulation” included in Part I, Item 1 of the Form 10-K. The balance of revenues derived by our institutionsAshford University is from government tuition assistance programs for military personnel, including veterans, payments made in cash by individuals, reimbursement from corporate affiliates and private loans.


41


If we were to become ineligible to receive Title IV funding or other governmental funding, our liquidity would be significantly impacted. The timing of disbursements under Title IV programs is based on federal regulations and our ability to successfully and timely arrange financial aid for our institutions’Ashford University’s students. Title IV funds are generally provided in multiple disbursements before we earn a significant portion of tuition and fees and incur related expenses over the period of instruction. Students must apply for new loans and grants each academic year. These factors, together with the timing at which our institutions’Ashford University’s students begin their programs, affect our revenues and operating cash flow.
Stock repurchase programs
The Company's board of directors may authorize us to repurchase outstanding shares of its common stock from time to time in the open market through block trades or otherwise depending on market conditions and other considerations, pursuant to the applicable rules of the SEC. The Company's policy is to retain these repurchased shares as treasury shares and not to retire them. The amount and timing of future share repurchases, if any, will be made as market and business conditions warrant. The timing and extent of any repurchases will depend upon market conditions, the trading price of our shares and other factors, and subject to the restrictions relating to volume, price and timing under applicable law. We may commence or suspend share repurchases at any time or from time to time.
Operating activities
Net cash used in operating activities was $16.7$38.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $12.9$10.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016,2018, an overall increase between periods in net cash used in operating activities of $3.8$27.6 million. This increase in cash used in operating activities wasis primarily attributable to the $49.8 million decrease in net income between periods. The decrease in net income is partially offset by the net changes in operating assets and liabilities, including a $13.6 million smaller decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities loss on impairment of student loan receivablesbalances and an $11.9 million smaller decrease in the accounts receivable balances, in current year versus prior year, anddue to changes in other long-term assets. This change was partially offset by the $32.5 million increase in net income between periods. Despite theenrollment.
Investing activities
Net cash used in operating activities during the period, we expect to generate cash from our operating activities for the foreseeable future.
Investing activities
Net cash provided by investing activities was $19.3$46.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, compared to net cash used in investing activities of $7.7$2.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.2018. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, we had maturitiespaid net cash for acquisitions of $19.3 million, whereas there were no acquisitions in the prior year. Capital expenditures for the nine months ended September 30, 2019 were $27.0 million, compared to $1.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2018. During the nine months ended September 30, 2019, we capitalized costs for intangibles of $0.5 million, and purchases of investments of $22.7approximately $0.1 million. This is compared to capitalized costs for intangibles of $0.7 million, purchases of investments of $0.1$1.1 million, and no sales of investments. This is compared to purchases of investments of $20.2$1.0 million no sales of investments and $14.7 million maturities of investments for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. Capital expenditures for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2017 were $2.9 million, compared to $1.6 million for the nine months endedSeptember 30, 2016.2018. We expect our capital expenditures to be approximately $5.8$33.0 million for the year ending December 31, 2017.2019.
Financing activities
Net cash used in financing activities was $149.8$0.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017,2019, compared to net cash used in financing activities of $1.6$3.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. During the nine months ended September 30, 2017, we repurchased approximately 18.1 million shares of our common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $150.0 million and $2.0 million of related fees.2018. During each of the nine months endedSeptember 30, 20172019 and 2016,2018, net cash used in financing activities included tax withholdings related to the issuance of shares upon the vesting of restricted stock units partially offset byvesting, proceeds from the issuance of stock under employee stock purchase plan, and cash provided by stock option exercises. During the nine months ended September 30, 2018, there was also tax withholdings related to net issuance of stock options and a repurchase of common stock.
Based on our current level of operations, we believe that our future cash flows from operating activities and our existing cash and cash equivalents will provide adequate funds for ongoing operations, planned capital expenditures and working capital requirements for at least the next 12 months. However, changes could occur that would consume our available capital resources before that time. Our capital requirements depend on numerous factors, including our ability to continue to generate revenue. There can be no assurance that additional funding, if necessary, will be available to us on favorable terms, if at all.


3442


Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Significant Contractual Obligations
As part of our normal business operations, we are required to provide surety bonds in certain states where we do business. In May 2009, we entered into a surety bond facility with an insurance company to provide such bonds when required. As of September 30, 2017,2019, our total available surety bond facility was $3.5$8.5 million, and the surety had issued bonds totaling $3.3$8.1 million on our behalf under such facility.
Significant Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth, as of September 30, 2017,2019, certain significant cash and contractual obligations that will affect our future liquidity:
Payments Due by PeriodPayments Due by Period
(In thousands)Total 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 ThereafterTotal 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 Thereafter
Operating lease obligations$77,878
 $9,080
 $31,400
 $20,833
 $9,504
 $5,112
 $1,949
$44,364
 $3,874
 $9,891
 $6,394
 $3,820
 $2,721
 $17,664
Other contractual obligations49,332
 4,229
 12,535
 10,592
 8,549
 3,427
 10,000
47,926
 5,774
 15,205
 9,074
 7,319
 5,554
 5,000
Uncertain tax positions8,290
 
 8,290
 
 
 
 
679
 
 679
 
 
 
 
Total$135,500
 $13,309
 $52,225
 $31,425
 $18,053
 $8,539
 $11,949
$92,969
 $9,648
 $25,775
 $15,468
 $11,139
 $8,275
 $22,664
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
For information regarding recent accounting pronouncements, refer to Note 2, “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this report.Form 10-Q.
Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
Market and Credit Risk
Pursuant to our cash investment policy, we attempt to mitigate the exposure of our cash and investments to market and credit risk by (i) diversifying concentration to ensure we are not overly concentrated in a limited number of financial institutions, (ii) monitoring and managing the risks associated with the national banking and credit markets, (iii) investing in U.S. dollar-denominated assets and instruments only, (iv) diversifying account structures so that we maintain a decentralized account portfolio with numerous stable, highly rated and liquid financial institutions and (v) ensuring that our investment procedures maintain a defined and specific scope such that we will not invest in higher-risk investment accounts, including financial swaps or derivative and corporate equities. Accordingly, pursuant to the guidelines established by our cash investment policy, we invest our excess cash exclusively in high-quality, U.S. dollar-denominated financial instruments.
Despite the investment risk mitigation strategies we employ, we may incur investment losses as a result of unusual and unpredictable market developments, and we may experience reduced investment earnings if the yields on investments that are deemed to be low risk remain low or decline further in this time of economic uncertainty. Unusual and unpredictable market developments may also create liquidity challenges for certain of the assets in our investment portfolio.
We have no derivative financial instruments or derivative commodity instruments.
Interest Rate Risk
To the extent we borrow funds, we would be subject to fluctuations in interest rates. As of September 30, 20172019, we had no outstanding borrowings.
Our future investment income may fall short of expectations due to changes in interest rates. At September 30, 20172019, a hypothetical 10% increase or decrease in interest rates would not have a material impact on our future earnings, fair value or cash flows related to interest earned on our cash, cash equivalents or investments.


3543


Item 4.  Controls and Procedures.
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) of the Exchange Act, that are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and management is required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of any possible controls and procedures.
Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our chief executive officerChief Executive Officer and our principal financial officer,Principal Financial Officer, we carried out an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) and Rule 15d-15(b) of the Exchange Act. Based on this evaluation, our chief executive officerChief Executive Officer and our principal financial officerPrincipal Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective at the reasonable assurance level as of September 30, 2017.2019.
Material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting
Management has concluded that there were matters that constituted material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. These material weaknesses relate to (i) control design in the accounting of the student contracts for the FTG program whereby revenue was misstated due to allowances that had not been properly determined and contained computational errors, which also resulted in misstatements in accounts receivable and its provision for bad debts and deferred revenue and student deposits; and (ii) operating effectiveness of review controls in the determination of the accounting for nonrecurring transactions and new accounting standards. Specifically, our controls were not effective as management misapplied accounting guidance and did not arrive at the proper accounting conclusions, resulting in misstatement of restricted cash and other long-term assets as of September 30, 2018 related to a long-term letter of credit issued as collateral for the build-to-suit lease; and management incorrectly applied ASC 606 upon adoption on January 1, 2018 as it relates to the FTG program, specifically the period of time for which to recognize revenue in the fiscal year 2018 related to FTG students that become inactive. These material weaknesses resulted in the restatement of the Company’s financial statements. Accordingly, management has determined that the Company's internal control over financial reporting was not effective as of September 30, 2019 due to material weaknesses.
Management's Remediation Efforts
We are committed to remediating the material weaknesses by implementing changes to our internal control over financial reporting. Our Principal Financial Officer is responsible for implementing changes and improvements in internal control over financial reporting and for remediating the control deficiencies that gave rise to the material weaknesses.
Throughout the first three quarters of 2019, we have implemented measures to remediate the underlying causes of the control deficiencies. These measures include (i) improving the internal communication procedures between operations and accounting personnel; (ii) enhancing our controls over the FTG accounting models, including more detailed steps to evaluate and revise critical assumptions and estimates to be more precise; (iii) implementing enhanced analytical controls to compensate for the manual processes; (iv) technical accounting training for key financial management; and (v) engaging external consultants, as needed, to provide support related to more complex applications of GAAP related to nonrecurring transactions and new accounting standards.
We believe these measures will remediate the underlying control deficiencies that gave rise to the material weaknesses. We are committed to continuing to improve our internal control processes and will continue to review, optimize and enhance our financial reporting controls and procedures. As we continue to evaluate and work to improve our internal control over financial reporting, we may take additional measures to address control deficiencies, or we may modify, or in appropriate circumstances not complete, certain of the remediation measures described above. These material weaknesses will not be


44


considered remediated until the applicable remedial controls operate for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that these controls are operating effectively.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We continually assess the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting and make improvements as deemed appropriate. There have beenAs discussed above, during the three months ended September 30, 2019, management implemented certain remediation measures to improve our internal control over financial reporting and to remediate the previously identified material weaknesses.
Additionally, in April 2019, we completed our acquisitions of both Fullstack Academy, Inc. (“Fullstack”) and TutorMe.com, Inc. (“TutorMe”). As the acquisitions occurred in the second quarter of 2019, the scope of our evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting does not include Fullstack or TutorMe. This exclusion is in accordance with the SEC's general guidance that an assessment of a recently acquired business may be omitted from our scope for a period not to exceed one year from the date of the acquisition.
Aside from the above, there were no changes to ourin internal control over financial reporting, during the three months ended September 30, 20172019 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


3645


PART II—OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.  Legal Proceedings.
For information regarding our legal proceedings, refer to Note 13,15, “Commitments and Contingencies” to our condensed consolidated financial statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this report, which note is incorporated by reference into this Part II, Item 1.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors.
Investing in our common stock involves risk. Before making an investment in our common stock, you should carefully consider the risk factors discussed in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Form 10-K. The risks described in the Form 10-K are those which we believe are the material risks we face, and such risks could materially adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial also may impact us. Except as set forth below, there have been no material changes in our risk factors from those previously disclosed in the Form 10-K.
Our institutionsfinancial results may suffer if we fail to successfully implement our restructuring plans and/or cost reduction initiatives aimed at right-sizing our operations to match revenue streams.
We have described elsewhere in this Form 10-Q our planned reduction in force which is intended to strengthen our business by right-sizing our operations to match revenue streams. We also described various restructuring charges related to this plan. If we fail to complete our restructuring plans timely and successfully, or if we fail to achieve the intended cost savings, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows may be further impacted. This plan also may have an adverse impact upon the morale or motivation of our employees and may result in further distractions to our management. In addition, management will continue to evaluate our cost structure, and additional restructuring plans may be needed. Any cost-saving measures could lose eligibilityimpact employee retention. In addition, we cannot be sure that the cost reduction will be successful in reducing our overall expenses as we expect or that additional costs, or reduced revenue, will not offset any such reductions. If our operating costs are higher than we expect or if we do not maintain adequate control of our costs and expenses, our results of operations may be adversely affected.
As we transition to become an education technology services company, the separation of Ashford University, either by sale to another university or via the Conversion Transaction, may not be completed on the terms or timeline currently contemplated and failure to complete, or any delay of, the separation of Ashford University from Zovio Inc may negatively impact our planned business, financial condition or results of operations.
We are planning the separation of Ashford University from Zovio Inc by either a sale to another university or the Conversion Transaction, either of which may be subject to a number of conditions including, among other things, regulatory approval. There can be no assurance that a sale of the university will be on what investors may consider to be reasonable terms or that the conditions to the completion of the Conversion Transaction will be satisfied, or that the separation will be completed on the terms or timeline currently contemplated, if at all. Other unanticipated developments could further delay, prevent or otherwise adversely affect the separation of the university, including disruptions in the capital and other financial markets, among other things. If the separation of the university is not completed or is delayed, we will be subject to several risks, including but not limited to:
a failure to complete the separation and transition or a delay in such events could result in a negative perception by the market of the Company generally and a resulting decline in the market price of our common stock;
the Company and Ashford University may experience negative reactions from its employees and business partners; and
there may be substantial disruption to our business and a distraction of our management team and employees from day-to-day operations, because matters related to the separation and transition have required substantial commitments of time and financial and other resources, which could otherwise have been devoted to other opportunities that might have been beneficial.


46


If we fail to effectively identify, pursue and consummate acquisitions, either in the U.S. or outside of the U.S., our ability to grow could be impacted and our profitability may be adversely affected.
Acquisitions are one component of our overall long-term growth strategy. The successful implementation of this strategy depends upon the Company’s ability to identify suitable domestic and international acquisition candidates, acquire such businesses on acceptable terms and finance such acquisitions. There can be no assurance that such candidates will be available or, if such candidates are available, that the price will be attractive or that the Company will be able to identify, acquire or finance such businesses successfully. In addition, in pursuing such acquisition opportunities, the Company may compete with other entities with similar growth strategies; these competitors may be larger and have greater financial and other resources than the Company. Competition for these acquisition targets could also result in increased prices of acquisition targets and/or a diminished pool of companies available for acquisition. There may be particular difficulties and complexities (regulatory or otherwise) associated with our expansion into international markets, and our strategies may not succeed beyond our current markets. If we are unable to effectively address these challenges, our ability to execute this component of our long-term strategy will be impaired, which could have an adverse effect on our ability to grow and our profitability.
The acquisition, integration and growth of acquired businesses may present challenges that could harm our business.
The successful integration and profitable operation of an acquired institution or business, including the realization of anticipated cost savings and additional revenue opportunities, can present challenges, and the failure to overcome these challenges can have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations. Some of these challenges include:
the inability to maintain uniform standards, controls, policies and procedures;
distraction of management's attention from normal business operations during the integration process;
the inability to attract and/or retain key management personnel to operate the acquired entity;
the inability to obtain, or delay in obtaining, regulatory or other approvals necessary to operate the business;
the inability to correctly estimate the size of a target market or accurately assess market dynamics;
the inability to retain the clients of the acquired entity;
the lingering effects of poor client relations or service performance by the acquired entity, which also may negatively affect the Company’s existing business;
the inability to fully realize the desired efficiencies and economies of scale;
expenses associated with the integration efforts; and
unidentified issues not discovered in the due diligence process, including legal contingencies.
An acquisition related to an institution or other educational business often requires one or multiple regulatory approvals. If we are unable to obtain such approvals, or we obtain them on unfavorable terms, our ability to consummate a transaction may be impaired or we may be unable to operate the acquired entity in a manner that is favorable to us. If we fail to properly evaluate an acquisition, we may be required to incur costs in excess of what we anticipated, and we may not achieve the anticipated benefits of such acquisition.
Ashford University is approved by California’s Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), which may subject the university to increased regulatory or political scrutiny.
To be eligible to participate in Title IV programs, or face other sanctions if they derive more than 90% of their respective revenues from these programs.
Under the Higher Education Act, a proprietary institution loses eligibility to participate in Title IV programs if the institution derives more than 90% of its revenues (calculated in accordance with Department regulations) from Title IV program funds for two consecutive fiscal years. This rule is commonly referred to as the “90/10 rule.” Any institution that violates the 90/10 rule for two consecutive fiscal years becomes ineligible to participate in Title IV programs for at least two fiscal years. In addition, an institution whose rate exceeds 90%must be legally authorized to offer its educational programs by a state in which it is physically located, often called “home state authorization.” Ashford University is approved by the California BPPE to operate in California and for any single fiscal year will be placed on provisional certification and may beits home state authorization. As a result, Ashford University is subject to other enforcement measures. In the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015laws and 2014, Ashford University derived 81.2%, 80.9%regulations applicable to private, postsecondary educational institutions located in California, and 83.4%, respectively, and University of the Rockies derived 86.5%, 86.6% and 88.3%, respectively, of their respective revenues from Title IV program funds. Ashford University and University of the Rockies continue to monitor their respective 90/10 rule calculations and their compliancethere is current legislation that may significantly increase that regulatory burden. Compliance with the 90/10 rule.
Revenue derived from government tuition assistance for military personnel, including veterans, is not considered federal student aid for purposes of calculations under the 90/10 rule, and accordingly helps our institutions satisfy the 90/10 rule. As of December 31, 2016, approximately 25.6% of our institutions' students were affiliated with the military, some of whom are eligible to receive government tuition assistance that may be used to pursue postsecondary degrees. If there were a reduction in funding of government tuition assistance for military personnel, including veterans,existing or if our revenue derived from such funding were otherwise to decrease, it could be significantly more difficult for our institutions to satisfy the 90/10 rule. On May 20, 2016, the Company received a letter from the Iowa Department of Education (the “Iowa DOE”) indicating that,increased regulations arising as a result of the planned closureAshford University's operation as a BPPE-approved institution may result in material additional costs of the Clinton Campus, the ISAA would no longer continue to approve Ashford’s programs for GI Bill benefits after June 30, 2016. The Iowa DOE subsequently issued a stay of the ISAA’s withdrawal of approval of Ashford’s programs for GI Bill benefits until 90 days from June 20, 2016. On September 15, 2016, in response to a Petition for Declaratory and Injunctive Relief filed by Ashford University the Iowa District Court for Polk County entered a written order (the “Order”) staying the Iowa DOE’s announced intention to withdraw the approval of Ashford as a GI Bill eligible institution until the entry of a final and appealable order and judgment in the action. On June 23, 2017, the Iowa District Court held a hearing on Ashford’s Petition and on July 17, 2017, the Court ruled in favor of the Iowa DOE and denied the petition. Ashford University is evaluating a variety of options to ensure the continued approval of Ashford’s programs for GI Bill benefits, including filing of a motion for reconsideration and a potential appeal. The Iowa DOE has indicated that it will continue to approve Ashford’s programs for GI Bill benefits and take no further action, at least through the deadline to appeal, which is 30 days following a final decision by the Iowa District Court. In addition, on July 25, 2017, Ashford University received approval from the state of Arizona to provide GI Bill benefits to its students, and is currently awaiting the assignment of a facilities code from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The Company intends to continue to pursue its options in Iowa as well. At this time, we cannot predict the eventual outcome of this litigation, and any potential delays or gaps in coverage for GI Bill benefits could have a material, adverse effect on current and future military student enrollment and the Company’s revenues, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations, and could make it significantly more difficult for our institutions to satisfy the 90/10 rule.
Changes in federal law that increase Title IV grant and loan limits may result in an increase in the revenues we receive from Title IV programs and make it more difficult for our institutions to satisfy the 90/10 rule. In addition, Congress couldprofitability.


3747


propose and adopt legislation that amends the 90/10 rule in ways that make it more difficult for our institutions to satisfy the 90/10 rule. Failure to satisfy the 90/10 rule could result in our institutions losing eligibility to participate in Title IV programs, which would have a material adverse effect on enrollments and our revenues, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.
Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
None.
Item 3.  Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
None.
Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures.
None.
Item 5.  Other Information.
None.Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities.
Following a review of the operations and cost structure of the Company, on October 29, 2019, the Company’s management committed to a plan to reduce operating expenses and conserve cash resources (the “Restructuring Plan”). The Restructuring Plan will result in a reduction in force of approximately 300 of our approximate 1,900 current full-time employees across the Company. The Restructuring Plan is expected to be substantially completed by December 31, 2019.
The Company plans to offer severance benefits to the affected employees, including cash severance payments and outplacement services.  Each affected employee’s eligibility for the severance benefits is contingent upon such employee’s execution of a general release of claims against the Company.
The Company currently expects to record a restructuring charge of approximately $11.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2019 as a result of the Restructuring Plan, consisting of one-time termination benefits for employee severance, benefits and related costs, all of which are expected to result in cash expenditures and substantially all of which will be paid out over the next 12 months.
This Item 5 contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, and may relate to, among other things, statements regarding the Company’s current expectations and beliefs as to the timing and scope of the reduction in force plan and the amount and timing of the related costs. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update such statements to reflect future events or circumstances, except as required by law.


3848


Item 6.  Exhibits.
Exhibit
 Description
31.1
 
31.2
 
32.1
 
99.1
101
 
The following financial information from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017,2019, filed with the SEC on October 25, 2017,30, 2019, formatted in Extensible Business Reporting Language (“XBRL”): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016;Sheets; (ii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016;; (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016;Stockholders’ Equity; (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2017Cash Flows; and 2016; (v) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 and 2016; and (vi) the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.



3949


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 BRIDGEPOINT EDUCATION, INC.ZOVIO INC
  
October 25, 201730, 2019/s/ JOSEPH D’AMICOKEVIN ROYAL
 
Joseph D’AmicoKevin Royal
Interim Chief Financial Officer
(Principal financial officer and duly authorized to
sign on behalf of the registrant)


4050