Moore School District expects 966 new students for fall

The Moore School District has been growing at a rate of about 450 students a year, but 966 new students enrolled this summer, Superintendent Susan Pierce said.

Pierce projects a districtwide enrollment of 23,000 students when classes begin Thursday. Last year's enrollment on the first day of school was 22,137. A firm enrollment figure will be available after Labor Day, Pierce said.

Of the students who enrolled this summer, “we don't know how many will drop and go to other districts,” Pierce said.

Pierce attributes the district's growth to its good reputation. “We have a great school district. It's very competitive in most of the ways that are important to parents.”

Moore, Westmoore and Southmoore high schools have new classrooms, as do Broadmoore, Houchin and Wayland Bonds elementary schools. Houchin also has a new media center.

The school board has acquired land for two new elementary schools and an additional junior high, in anticipation of future growth.

The district will seek funding later if the new campuses are needed, she said.