The Coos Bay Public Schools Board convened on December 9, 2024, to discuss critical enrollment trends and the implications of student mobility within the district. A significant focus of the meeting was the recent decrease in student enrollment figures, particularly at the high school level, which has raised concerns among board members.

The board reported a drop in enrollment from 3,050 to 3,031 students, attributed to the exclusion of preschool students from the Little Pirates and Lighthouse programs. This adjustment reflects ongoing efforts to accurately account for Average Daily Membership (ADM), which is crucial for state funding calculations.

Discussion highlighted the concerning trend of high school students leaving the district. Board members noted that while it is common to see a decline in enrollment after the first semester, the current numbers suggest a more significant loss than usual. Speculation arose regarding the destinations of these students, with possibilities including alternative education programs or homeschooling, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Board members expressed the need for further investigation into where these students are going, emphasizing the importance of understanding whether families are leaving the district entirely or if individual students are transferring. The conversation also touched on the broader statewide issue, with Oregon reportedly down approximately 20,000 students since the pandemic, complicating efforts to track student movements.

The board acknowledged the necessity of adapting educational offerings to meet diverse student needs, particularly for those who may not thrive in traditional high school settings. This includes considering the expansion of alternative education programs to retain students who might otherwise leave the district.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of monitoring enrollment trends and understanding the factors contributing to student mobility. The board plans to gather more data to inform future decisions and ensure that the educational needs of all students are being met effectively.