October 22, 2019
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, Md.—Enrollment in Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is up by almost 4,000 students for the 2019-20 academic year, the largest single-year increase in 15 years. Now at an estimated 136,600 students, the school system’s enrollment has grown by nearly 13,000 students since the 2012-13 academic year.
Last year’s official enrollment count was 132,636. Current figures show growth of almost 700 elementary school students, nearly 1,500 middle school students and over 1,250 high school students since the 2018-19 school year. The school system’s enrollment generally swells throughout the year due to high student mobility. Original projections prior to the first day of school this year showed a 200-student dip in enrollment. However, current totals continue a seven-year growth trend.
Dr. Monica Goldson, Chief Executive Officer, credits expanded program offerings and increased confidence in PGCPS for the rise in enrollment. The school system created 200 more prekindergarten slots this fall as part of the Blueprint for PGCPS. In collaboration with the Board of Education and Prince George’s County Government, Dr. Goldson recently announced plans to address enrollment growth and aging infrastructure through an innovative public-private partnership.
“This news is a welcome vote of confidence in the incredible work of our school system, teachers, principals and support staff,” said Dr. Goldson. “We are focused on ensuring that students and families receive the highest quality teaching and leadership at every school. This is why I’m proud to lead this amazing school district.”
“It’s wonderful to see more families are returning to the Prince George’s County public school system. We have tremendous educators and a quality curriculum,” said County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “By continuing to offer high-quality educational opportunities, our great county will continue to prosper.”
Dr. Alvin Thornton, Board of Education Chair, noted, “There is an urgent need for increased funding to support continuing and new students, and we must provide full funding of the Commission on Innovation and Excellence (Kirwan Commission) recommendations during the 2020 General Assembly session with a formula that ensures adequacy and equity.”
“When families choose Prince George’s County Public Schools, they know their children will receive a high-quality education that prepares them for higher education, the workplace and life beyond the schoolhouse doors,” said Dr. Goldson.
The Maryland State Department of Education will certify enrollment figures in November.
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