Presents data from a Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education study projecting trends in the number of high school graduates in the various states between 1979 and 1995. (IRT)

Although there is ample evidence to indicate that school enrollments are nosing downward, school boards are cautioned to be alert for enrollment powder kegs'' and to go slowly on easing up.'' (Author/JF)

Instead of using sophisticated statistical techniques, principals can combine information about community birth records and past enrollments to forecast enrollments accurately. Principals should watch maternity wards; chart cohort groups; and avoid statistical traps (using bad math, using straight-line projections, accepting statistical…

School boards and superintendents should take steps to minimize the community's shock reaction to lower school enrollments, school consolidation, and school closings. (Author)

Describes Albuquerque (New Mexico) Public Schools' development of a model to forecast enrollment growth. Recommendations include studying local demographics, seeking clues to future development, examining the age of neighborhoods, adding up rental property, and developing strong professional relationships with city planners, real estate…

The 51.7 million students enrolled in public and private schools this year outstrip the 51.3 million mark set in 1971. Today's taxpayers are reluctant to pay for new schools; therefore, school leaders need to be creative in handling the enrollment crunch. Experts in fast-growing districts offer tips. (MLF)

With state budgets in trouble across the United States, many school districts have already been hit with midyear cuts. Morale is the first and biggest issue administrators and school boards have to tackle. Successful leaders must be able to forecast what lies ahead and plan for the future. Good communication with staff and the public is crucial to…

It looks as if the U.S. might be in for a small but significant (for schools) rise in birth rates. (Author)

Reports on nationwide school improvement trends shown by the following indicators: (1) S.A.T. and A.C.T. scores, (2) school dropout rates, (3) preprimary enrollment rates, (4) increased numbers of required courses, and (5) the 1985 Gallup Poll of the Public's Attitude Toward the Public Schools. Six charts are included. (IW)