BOONE, Iowa—The Boone Community School District has experienced declining enrollment since 2000. As a target both for growth and to maintaining or increase state funding for the BCSD, one goal has been to focus on enrollment and encourage families to learn the strengths and quality of the Boone Schools.

During the past couple of years, enrollment has shown a trend of increases. A year ago, the certified enrollment for the BCSD increased by five students. From the 2017-18 school year to the 2018-19 school year, the district’s certified enrollment grew over seven students.

State funding is based on a formula of per student costs, and for each student in an Iowa School, the district receives $6,731. With a total increase of thirteen students over the last two years, the annual impact is an increase of $87,000 in school funding Therefore, an increase in funding (versus a decrease) significantly impacts the budget for Iowa school districts. After several years of declining enrollment, this new trend will have a positive impact fiscally on the BCSD.

Superintendent Brad Manard stated, “We are working hard to spread the word about the quality education being offered in the Boone Schools. This, along with the recent economic development in Boone, is attracting families to our community and schools. When enrollment increases, funding is more available and programs strengthen. This trend will have a positive impact on our schools.”

Manard talked more about the Boone School District on the Wednesday Tuned In program on KWBG.

(contributed article, BCSD)