CONTACT:
LaToya Foster (EOM) – (202) 727-5011
Shayne Wells (DME) – (202) 215-8384
The number of students enrolled in public schools in the District of Columbia increased for the seventh consecutive year, reaching 87,749, according to preliminary unaudited data released today by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). In the 2015-16 school year, enrollment grew by 1,761 students over the previous year at District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and public charter schools.
“Increased student enrollment underscores what we know is true—more and more families are confident in our schools,” said Mayor Bowser. “The District has the fastest improving urban school district in the nation and our charters are a model for other jurisdictions. I am proud of the progress we have made delivering quality education for our young people. Together we will continue to build pathways to the middle class for residents – and that begins with every young person having access to a quality education.”
The unaudited figures show student enrollment in both sectors increased slightly more than two percent, from 47,663 to 48,653 at DCPS, while public charter schools increased from 38,325 to 39,096.
“Steady growth at DCPS and in public charter schools is a testament to the hard work of the District’s educators and school leaders,” said State Superintendent Hanseul Kang. “We look forward to continuing this enrollment trend as we improve academic opportunities, student performance and graduation rates at public schools throughout the District.”
OSSE is required by law to conduct an annual enrollment audit for DCPS and public charter schools, which is based on a preliminary snapshot of public school enrollment rosters. In 2014, OSSE launched an Office of Enrollment and Residency to strengthen its residency verification measures and this year plans to increase in-person technical assistance for all local education agencies. In addition, OSSE is running a transit ad campaign to encourage the reporting of non-residents receiving a free District-funded public education. These combined initiatives further the state education agency’s commitment to producing a valid and accurate annual enrollment audit.
The final audited enrollment figures will be published in February 2016.