Overpopulation is becoming a bigger problem in the school district as enrollment numbers are only growing, going up 82% inside the past 10 years. Overpopulation makes school harder for everybody, teacher or student. Teachers have a bigger responsibility taking care of students and student conflict increases. Hallways become crowded and classrooms become harder to maintain for teachers.
Don’t get us wrong–we believe in the value of the education provided at Southwest Local School District, and the idea that more kids get to be here is good, but it does bring with it some negative side effects.
The enrollment count in 2014 was 3,767, while this year in the 2023-2024 school year, the enrollment is at 4,585. Buildings that were designed for fewer students are having to be used for more students.
The district isn’t in charge of what new houses get built, so there’s not much we can do about this other than make room for more kids. The district will need to decide how to do this, whether it is modular classrooms, traveling teacher, or adding on to existing buildings through a levy.
So the next time you’re in crowded hallway or classroom, take a deep breath and remember that you (and everyone in this hallway with you) is getting a great education.
