In a recent meeting of the Finance Advisory Committee held on January 15, 2025, discussions centered around the trends in private school enrollment in Savannah, Georgia, revealing significant shifts influenced by demographic changes and educational choices post-pandemic.

The committee noted a marked increase in private school enrollment immediately following the pandemic, a trend that had been declining for years prior due to lower birth rates. However, the latest data indicates a slight decrease in enrollment for the current fiscal year, suggesting that the surge may have plateaued. This decline is attributed to a broader demographic trend in Savannah, where the population is aging and fewer younger families are choosing to have children.

Dr. Howard Hall, a committee member, emphasized the competitive landscape of education in Chatham County, which boasts the highest number of private schools in Georgia. He pointed out that these institutions often target prime athletic talent from middle school, which could influence enrollment patterns in higher grades. The committee expressed interest in understanding whether the enrollment changes are more pronounced at the elementary, middle, or high school levels, noting that while elementary enrollment remains stable, middle and high school numbers are declining.

The conversation also touched on the implications of these trends for teacher retention and school funding. Concerns were raised about the potential transfer of teachers between schools due to fluctuating enrollments, which could impact the stability of staffing across the district.

As the committee continues to analyze these trends, they plan to gather more detailed data on enrollment by grade level to better understand the dynamics at play. The discussions highlight the ongoing challenges faced by public schools in adapting to changing demographics and competition from private and charter schools, underscoring the need for strategic planning in education policy moving forward.