Board hires firms for updated enrollment projection and building capacity studies

The Tunkhannock Area School District approved an enrollment projection study and a building capacity assessment to update planning data before any major capital projects. The board authorized FutureThink (enrollment projection) for $7,500 and CHA Inc. (building capacity analysis) for $24,500.

Board members said the district last conducted a comprehensive enrollment projection in 2016 (cited work extended to about 10 years) and that updated projections are necessary before proceeding with significant building upgrades or consolidation discussions. The superintendent noted the prior projection was close to actual enrollment once cyber‑charter numbers were adjusted.

Why it matters: District officials argued updated, room‑by‑room capacity figures and enrollment forecasts are necessary to avoid uninformed capital spending. Board discussion linked the studies to broader planning items, including potential changes at the Administration Building, the intermediate center, and future decisions about boilers and building upgrades.

Details and timeline: The firms will measure classroom capacities and produce projections that account for birth rates and housing trends; exact delivery dates were not specified and staff said they will provide timing to the board when available. The board approved the contracts by roll call.