Enrollment for the 2002-2003 school year climbed by 180 students to 72,617, the Planning Office announced today. Although the rate of increase was not as high as expected, the growth represents the ninth straight year of enrollment increases in Denver Public Schools.

The new enrollment total means the district has added nearly 10,000 students since 1993-1994, when enrollment stood at 62,702.

“Earlier this fall, when it appeared that enrollment was coming in below projections, we took several steps in anticipation of the budget shortfall,“ said Superintendent Jerry Wartgow. “For example, we instituted a hiring freeze and all major technology purchases now require my approval. We will continue to look for opportunities to be frugal and conservative with all our spending.”

The impact of the smaller-than-projected enrollment growth on the budget won’t be known until more specific information about the percentage of at-risk students in the district is determined, and the state funding formula for is applied, in December.

“We’re happy to see growth continue,“ Superintendent Wartgow added. “However, we need to look across the district, school by school, and reach out to our parents and communities to make sure that we are offering schools and programs that meet the needs of all students. That is very much part of our mission - setting high expectations and improving the performance of all students.”