Public School Enrollment Down in North Carolina

School enrollment is down in many of North Carolina’s larger school systems.  Charlotte-Mecklenburg, Pitt County, and other systems are surprised to see their enrollment numbers dip. Even Wake County, the nation’s 18^th largest school system, did not meet enrollment expectations as of the twentieth day of classes. 

 Many officials are blaming earlier kindergarten enrollment cut-off dates; however, the trend is that more North Carolina families are choosing home school and private school for their children. 

 The big surprise is that the decreases and slower growth are happening in a down economy.  Home school and private schools cost families money, but families will create choices, no matter the cost.