Preliminary enrollment numbers reveal an additional 100 students more than expected in New Kent

New Kent public schools announced preliminary enrollment numbers during its Sept. 8 regular meeting.

Figures for all four schools exceeded ADM (average daily member) projections. The schools had budgeted for 3,000 students for the FY2016-17 cycle, but currently hold an enrollment of 3,125 (excluding 48 students at the preschool level).

George Watkins Elementary continues to grow at a startling rate. Superintendent of schools David Myers commented that while predicted numbers tabbed the school to hold 676 pupils, approximately 709 entered the doors as of day two. New Kent Elementary school also seen an increase with a mark of 710. New Kent Middle School and New Kent High School currently holds 715 and 979 pupils, respectively, while 12 students are attending either the Governor’s School or RASP programs.

Myers said the county’s growth continues to factor into the increased enrollment.

“There are a lot of families moving in from neighboring jurisdictions and out of state,” commented the superintendent. “Our elementary schools are pretty much at that limit.

“We had to hire an additional fourth grade teacher at George Watkins,” Myers continued. “I am also expecting a spillover into our middle school in the next couple of years because of how big the fourth and fifth grade classes are. Looking at these numbers it is a possibility that we may have to add a trailer at the middle school.”

Myers and the school board are meeting with county leaders at the Sept. 28 Board of Supervisors work session to discuss the increased enrollment and the incoming dwellings in New Kent.

“We know we are going to need a new elementary school down the road,” the superintendent added. “I hope the board of supervisors understand that we are using every inch of capacity in our classrooms that we can use at this point.”

A final enrollment count is expected to be announced during the board of supervisors’ work session.