The Eagle Point School District 9 board convened on March 20, 2024, to address pressing concerns regarding student enrollment trends and attendance issues that could impact the district's budget and educational strategies.

During the meeting, district officials reported a slight decline in enrollment, with a drop of approximately 1.2% compared to the previous year, translating to a loss of about 45 students. This trend aligns with statewide patterns, where many Oregon districts are experiencing similar decreases. While the situation is not deemed a crisis, it raises concerns as funding is closely tied to student numbers.

A detailed analysis revealed that the majority of students leaving the district—about 61%—did so due to moving out of the area, with others opting for homeschooling or transferring to charter schools. Notably, 18% of students were categorized as having dropped out due to attendance issues, which is a significant area of focus for the district. Officials emphasized the importance of understanding the reasons behind these attendance drops to improve retention strategies.

Amy Sanders, a district representative, highlighted the challenges posed by rising homelessness rates in Oregon, which have been linked to increased student mobility. Although specific data for Eagle Point is still being compiled, the district is aware of the broader implications of these trends on local families.

The board discussed potential strategies to engage families considering homeschooling, aiming to provide more information about the district's offerings and support systems. This proactive approach seeks to address the concerns of families and encourage them to remain within the public school system.

In conclusion, the Eagle Point School District is actively monitoring enrollment and attendance trends, with a commitment to understanding and addressing the underlying issues. The board's discussions reflect a dedication to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. As the district prepares for budget planning, these insights will be crucial in shaping future strategies to enhance student retention and support.