Newton Public Schools assess high school enrollment drop amid parent concerns over quality

The Newton School Committee meeting on May 5, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding student enrollment trends and the quality of education in the district. A key discussion point was the rising percentage of high school students attending non-public schools, which has increased to approximately 25%, up from 20-22% in previous years. This trend raises questions about the perceived quality of education in Newton Public Schools (NPS) and the factors influencing families' decisions to seek alternatives.

Committee members expressed concern that while enrollment in elementary and middle schools has declined, high school numbers have remained stable. This discrepancy suggests that families may be opting for private education due to concerns about academic quality or other factors, such as athletic opportunities. Anecdotal evidence from parents indicates that some families are leaving NPS for better athletic programs elsewhere, which has become a recurring theme in discussions about student retention.

To address these issues, the committee is considering a comprehensive audit of the district's athletic programs, which could provide insights into why families are choosing to leave. Additionally, the committee plans to gather more data on enrollment patterns and the reasons behind families' decisions to withdraw from NPS. This includes reaching out to families who have left to understand their motivations better.

The meeting also touched on the importance of qualitative feedback from parents, with discussions around the effectiveness of surveys and interviews conducted to gauge community sentiment. While the data collected has been valuable, committee members acknowledged the limitations of current feedback mechanisms, emphasizing the need for more nuanced conversations with families to understand their concerns fully.

In conclusion, the Newton School Committee is actively seeking to understand and address the factors driving families away from public schools. By focusing on enrollment trends, academic quality, and community feedback, the committee aims to enhance the educational experience for all students in the district. As they move forward, the insights gained from these discussions will be crucial in shaping future strategies to retain students and improve the overall perception of Newton Public Schools.