The Goodrich school district posted enrollment increases while Brandon declined following the Feb. 11 statewide student count.
Goodrich student enrollment increased by 54 students to 2,214 while Brandon slipped to 3,422, a decline of 98 in comparison to the February 2007 student count.
A change in enrollment means more or less revenue for the schools, which receive per-pupil funding at about $7,316 per student. The money is dispensed by means of a blended count.
A blended count works by taking two student counts, one in September and another in February of the next year. Funds are decided based on a 75-25 percent formula, with 75 percent of the next school year’s money coming in based on September count and the remainder based upon the count done in February.
‘The decline was anticipated,? said Lorrie McMahon, Brandon superintendent.
‘We had already made some tough cuts, however, right now we are down to the bare minimums. It’s too early to know about pink slips for staff, and teacher retirements are also part of the equation.?
McMahon added that currently about 350 School of Choice students attend Brandon.
In Goodrich, enrollment jumped at just about every level.
‘It’s encouraging and we are thrilled with the increase,? said Michael Tripp, Goodrich School Board president. ‘We were nervous when other Genesee County schools were declining. Students are coming here for a variety of reasons, from academics to sports to location’some are here from home school, too.?
Tripp added that even with the increased enrollment no additional teaching staff would be necessary.