WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — When the second nine weeks of the school year begins next week, the School District of Palm Beach County will see more students back on campus.
Earlier this month, the district asked families to lock in their choice of either in-person or virtual learning, to take effect Nov. 4 and last for the remainder of the first semester, which goes until Jan. 29.
According to data WPTV obtained from the School District of Palm Beach County, about 45% of students plan to return to school campuses next week. That's about 68,000 students, which is an increase compared to the approximately 54,000 students who attended the first day of in-person learning on Sept. 21.
SCHOOL ENROLLMENT DATA:
While there is an increase overall, the numbers vary based on school level.
Elementary schools have the highest rate of students returning to campus, with most of them having at least 50% of students planning to participate in brick-and-mortar instruction.
Middle schools fall about in the middle, and high schools have the lowest rate of students returning to campus, with most having less than 30% planning to learn on campus.
The school with the highest rate of students returning is Limestone Creek Elementary School in Jupiter, with 84% of its students planning to participate in in-person learning.
Atlantic Community High School in Delray Beach has the lowest number of students learning on campus, with about 19% of its more than 2,000 students planning to return to campus.
This process was designed to prevent students from constantly going back and forth between in-person and distance learning. District leaders also said it could create more remote work opportunities and less simultaneous teaching.
Parents can apply for waivers to change their choice if extenuating circumstances occur.
If you have questions about the process, you can visit the School District of Palm Beach County's frequently asked questions list byclicking here.
