The number of students enrolled in public and charter schools in the District increased for the eighth consecutive year, reaching 90,500 - according to preliminary data released by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). In the 2016-17 school year, enrollment grew by 3,121 students over the previous year – a 3.44 percent increase.

“The increase in enrollment numbers is more proof that District families are more confident than ever that our youth are being provided a quality public education,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “I am extremely proud of the work that our schools are doing to ensure that our residents have top-notch public school choices.”  

The unaudited figures show student enrollment increases in District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and public charter schools. DCPS enrollment increased from 48,439 to 48,777; and public charter schools enrollment numbers increased from 38,905 to 41,677.

“The increase in enrollment in our public schools for the eighth consecutive year is an important sign of continued progress and a testament to the hard work of District educators and leaders,” said State Superintendent of Education Hanseul Kang. “It is through their hard work and dedication to our students that more families are choosing our public schools each year.”

OSSE is required by law to conduct an annual enrollment audit of public schools, which is  - based on an evaluation of public school enrollment rosters. OSSE conducts the audit in collaboration with an independent outside firm, which also conducts an audit of residency verification.  Preliminary numbers are based on a snapshot of data submitted in October, and the full enrollment audit and verification process takes several months. The final audited enrollment figures will be published in early 2017.