Public schools in Wards 5 and 4 have the greatest total enrollment, surpassing schools in Wards 7 and 8 (with the most at the start of the time period, SY2013-14). Enrollment in Ward 5 public schools has increased substantially every year since SY2013-14, driven mostly (but not entirely) by increases in enrollment in public charter schools. Enrollment in Ward 4 schools has also experienced a steady upward trend as well (driven by both sectors). After arresting substantial declines in SY2022-23, enrollment in Ward 8 public schools has again declined for two consecutive school years. Trends for individual grades (or a selection of grades) by ward can also be viewed.
Enrollment Trends by Ward, SY13-14 to SY24-25
By grade band, enrollment in elementary grades (PK-5) increased between SY2013-14 and SY2019-20, but at a declining rate. Enrollment in this grade band decreased in SY2020-21 and SY2021-22 but has since had two consecutive years of increases and has remained steady in SY2024-25. Enrollment in middle school grades (6-8) saw consistent increases in enrollment during those same years, only decreasing slightly SY2021-22. Enrollment in high school grades (9-12) has increased for five consecutive years but the rate of these increases has slowed. Users can select either DCPS or public charter schools to understand each sector's trend. Users can also view the dashboard by individual grade. View the Full Screen Dashboard by Individual Grade here.
Enrollment Trends by Grade Band, SY13-14 to SY24-25
Source: OSSE Audited Enrollment, SY13-14 to SY24-25
