NEWS
Sept. 23, 2004
Contact: Superintendent Dale E. Kinsley, (360) 676-6501; dkinsley@bham.wednet.edu
BELLINGHAM – Based on an official headcount taken on Sept. 13, the Bellingham School District has experienced a significant increase in enrollment with 246 more students compared to last fall.
Enrollment is at 10,534 students, not including students participating in the Running Start program for college credit, compared to 10,288 students in September 2003. Overall, high schools experienced the most growth, followed by elementary schools, particularly at the kindergarten level.
“We expected to see a significant jump this year, but many more students have enrolled than we expected,” said Superintendent Dale E. Kinsley. “We have worked closely with our schools during the last few weeks to increase staffing and add class sections within budgeted allowances and facility limits to best serve our students.”
The District's Capital Facilities Planning Force, which includes community members and staff, has been examining space issues since May 2004 and is preparing to make a recommendation based on future facilities needs this January.
“We are aware of the current growth pressures and are working collaboratively with community members and employees to plan for an educational environment that addresses space issues and continues to support our goals to improve student learning through dynamic instruction and personalization,” Kinsley said.