According to the latest enrollment survey, Highlands County public schools in Florida have seen a decrease in student numbers, with 12,151 students enrolled this year compared to 12,341 last year. The percentage of Hispanic students has surpassed that of white students, making up 38% of the student population. The district’s per-pupil funding has also increased over the past few years. Mid Florida Newspapers reported
Highlands County Public Schools Experience a Slight Decrease in Enrollment
In the current school year, Highlands County public schools have a total enrollment of 12,151 students as of October 13, according to the state’s enrollment survey.
This number represents a slight decrease of 190 students compared to last year’s enrollment count, which was 12,341.
In a recent development, the enrolment figures for Highlands County public schools indicate a slight decrease compared to the previous year. As of October 13, the current school year’s enrollment stands at 12,151 students, a decrease of 190 students from the previous count of 12,341. These numbers have prompted a closer examination of the changing student demographics in the district.
Over the past two decades, there has been a notable shift in the student population composition. The percentage of white students has steadily declined, while the percentage of Hispanic students has experienced an upward trend. In fact, the Hispanic student body now accounts for the largest proportion of students in the Highlands District, making up 38% of the total enrollment. White students remain a significant group, representing 37% of the student population. Additionally, black students comprise 17%, while multiracial, Asian, and Indian American/Pacific Islander students account for 5%, 2%, and less than 1% respectively.
Furthermore, among the enrolled students, 11% are English Language Learners, requiring specialized support, while 19% have been identified as students with disabilities, necessitating additional resources and accommodations.
A comparison of the demographic data from previous years reveals the shifting landscape of student enrollment. In 2008, the student body consisted of 51.9% white students, 25.5% Hispanic students, and 18.3% black students. In 2001, the proportions were 59.3% white students, 20.2% black students, and 17.8% Hispanic students. These changes reflect the evolving cultural and ethnic makeup of the student population.
The increase in student enrollment has also had implications for the school district’s funding calculations. With a rising number of students, the per-pupil funding for the district has seen an upward trajectory. For the upcoming 2023-24 school year, the per-pupil funding is projected to be £8,443.09, compared to £7,952.93 in the previous year and £7,583.45 two years ago. This increase in funding underscores the district’s commitment to providing quality education for its diverse student body.
In summary, the recent enrollment figures for Highlands County public schools highlight the changing demographics within the district. While there has been a slight decrease in overall enrollment, the rise of Hispanic students as the largest student group and the increasing number of English Language Learners and students with disabilities signifies the importance of providing inclusive and tailored education. The district’s per-pupil funding has also seen a positive trend, reflecting the commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the student population..