Newton School Committee addresses rising private school enrollment concerns after COVID

In a recent meeting of the Newton School Committee, discussions centered around the significant shifts in school enrollment patterns following the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee highlighted concerns regarding the rising number of students attending private schools, with estimates suggesting that approximately 21% of students in Newton are now enrolled in non-public institutions. This figure, while lower than some parents' perceptions of 25%, still represents a notable increase compared to pre-pandemic levels, which hovered around 18-19%.

The committee expressed particular concern about the War School, where enrollment challenges have become increasingly pronounced. Reports indicated that nearly 40% of students are opting for private education, raising alarms about the potential long-term implications for the school and its resources. The committee acknowledged the need for proactive measures to address these enrollment trends, emphasizing the importance of retaining students within the public school system.

Additionally, the meeting addressed specific enrollment statistics for high school students. While overall enrollment in grades 11 and 12 showed some fluctuations, the committee noted a significant drop in private school enrollment for grade 11, which decreased from 17.1% to a lower percentage over the past two years. This decline was attributed to a larger cohort of students moving through the grades, with the current grade 11 class being notably smaller than its predecessor.

The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Newton School Committee as they navigate the post-pandemic educational landscape. With enrollment trends shifting and the potential for further declines in public school attendance, the committee is tasked with developing strategies to enhance the appeal of public education and address the concerns of parents and students alike. As the committee moves forward, the focus will remain on understanding these trends and implementing effective solutions to ensure the sustainability of the public school system in Newton.