AISD begins year with lower enrollment

Albany ISD welcomed students back to class Wednesday, August 13, with an opening-day enrollment lower than in recent years.

The district ended last school year with 475 students enrolled. As of Wednesday, there were 436 students fully registered and 11 more in progress, bringing the current total to 447. “We are down, but we never know until the first week ends,” said Leigh Lowe, AISD director of student services.

At Albany Junior/Senior High School, enrollment is holding steady at around 210 students, similar to last year’s numbers. “We have been in contact with almost everyone that was enrolled last year,” said AJSH Principal Ezra Chambers. “Our class sizes are averaging about 15, which I think is ideal for learning.”

Meet the Teacher events were held at both campuses this week, giving students a chance to prepare before the first day of school. Seventh grade and new secondary students met their teachers and located classrooms during Monday evening’s event at AJSH. Elementary students had their turn on Tuesday evening, greeting teachers and getting settled into their new classrooms.

Lowe encouraged families who have not yet completed enrollment to contact their child’s campus. “We are happy to help anyone who needs help registering still,” she said. “Once school starts, it might need to be on a scheduled time. Just call each campus for information.”