Richfield Enrollment Numbers Go Up

Richfield Public Schools are able to celebrate a little win this school year.

For the first time in six years, the district was able to hold on to more students than it lost through open enrollment opportunities.

According to a the Sun Current, the district saw a net gain of 119 students due to open enrollment this school year. There were 454 district residents opting to attend school elsewhere, while 573 students living outside the district chose to attend Richfield schools. Over the last 10 years the district has had net losses of as many as 104 students, the article said.

Offering all-day kindergarten, availability of two choice schools (Richfield Dual Language and S.T.E.M.) and free transportation to any of the schools regardless of where the child lives, are a few of things school officials credit for the rise.

Read the full Sun Current article here.

The enrollment numbers are a welcome sight after the school board having to navigate through some tough spots over the past couple years. From what seemed like a revolving door for principals at the high school to controversial baseball lights to a failed referendum, an enrollment increase shows faith in the district.

So, Patch asks: What do you credit for the enrollment increase? Why do you think students choose to attend schools elsewhere? Why have you chosen to stay or leave the district? Tell us in the comments section below.

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