Return to Headlines

Demographic study provides data to guide future decisions about facilities

Nov. 28, 2023

 

Providing quality learning environments for all students and staff is one of the key priorities of the SPS strategic plan. To achieve this, we continuously review our facility needs and identify steps to ensure our schools provide safe and quality spaces for all students and staff to learn and work.

 

Over the past few years, it was determined that a demographic study was needed to support the work of our Community Task Force on Facilities and Proposition S. This fall, the study was conducted to analyze current and future population trends within the SPS attendance boundaries. 

 

Data from this study will help SPS accurately determine its future facility needs and make plans to efficiently meet those needs. A report on the demographic study will be presented to the Board of Education tonight. 

 

Some trends identified by the demographic study include the following:

  • It is anticipated that there will be a gradual decline in overall student enrollment, shifting from the current count of 24,132 students to 23,853 over the next decade.
  • Over the next several years, the resident student population in grades pre-kindergarten through 5 is projected to increase. The district has experienced substantial growth in the past two years with the addition of nearly 160 students in pre-kindergarten.
  • SPS is currently experiencing the lowest middle school enrollment in four years. An increase in the number of middle school students is anticipated over the next six years as larger groups of students advance to grades 6-8.
  • The decreasing trends in middle school enrollment are anticipated to impact high school grades over the next several years, potentially causing the total number of enrolled high school students to fall to 7,000 in 2027-2028.

The report also presents some scenarios to gain program efficiencies and balance enrollment among some elementary schools, including Robberson and Pershing elementary schools.

 

November 28 is the first time the school board reviewed and discussed this information. Updates will be provided as discussions about the demographic study continue. It is anticipated that the school board will continue consideration of all options, including timeline, during its December 19 meeting. 

 

A recording of the Nov. 28 meeting will be posted here on Nov. 29. The public may also view the demographic study report and the board presentation.