‘Everyday Counts’: Birmingham and Bessemer City Schools sharing enrollment numbers for new school year

First Week Enrollment Statistics are Out

The first week of the school year in Birmingham and Bessemer has ended and with it, the school authorities’ have shared the initial enrollment figures. Bessemer City Schools reported an enrollment of approximately 60%, as stated by Superintendent Dr. Dana Arreola. She called upon the remaining 40% students who are yet to enroll, to register at the earliest. “Our students are greatly missed at this stage if they have not returned to school, and we’re just excited to welcome them back and dive headfirst into learning”, says Arreola.

Significant Improvement in Birmingham City Schools Attendance

In comparison to last year, Birmingham City Schools has recorded a significant jump in the number of students attending school in the first week. According to Superintendent Dr. Mark Sullivan, the enrollment figures have indeed shown a positive trend. “Yesterday’s enrollment was about 500 students higher than the same period last year. While last year, we had approximately 18,034-35 students, this year the number has increased to around 18,600. That’s an increase of over 500 students,” commented Sullivan.

Concerns for Unregistered Students

Despite the positive figures, Sullivan expressed concern over students who have not registered yet, especially considering the challenges some students might face in commuting to school or experiencing homelessness. To combat these issues, a significant initiative “Everyday Counts,” has been implemented in association with the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office and the Birmingham Housing Authority. This initiative will reward students having perfect attendance with a chance to win cash towards their housing expenses in a monthly raffle.

The superintendent underlined the importance of quick school enrollment and regular attendance, showcasing the influence it has on the funding the school systems receive. He insisted that missing school not only hampers a child’s education but causes financial complications for schools as well.

Tackling Enrollment Challenges

Sullivan pointed out, “There are still some students out there who haven’t shown up for school yet, and we want parents to recognize the potential loss when kids miss school at the beginning of the year because unpredictable circumstances can arise anytime.”

Both Sullivan and Arreola have called out to the students and their parents to focus on higher enrollment and improved attendance, stating that Everyday Counts in school. Efforts are going on to make sure that students who have not yet shown up for the new school year are encouraged and supported to enroll and attend.

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