Wake County Schools Face Enrollment Changes as More Families Choose Alternatives
Currently, 25.7% of school-age children in Wake County attend non-WCPSS schools, a number that has been steadily increasing.
Holly Springs, NC, Feb. 5, 2025 — Wake County Public Schools (WCPSS) leaders are preparing for the future as student enrollment shifts. At its recent work session on February 4th, district officials reviewed enrollment trends, the impact of school choice, and how changing birth rates and economic conditions could affect schools in the coming years.
Enrollment Trends and Projections
For the 2024-25 school year, officials reported student membership figures based on the Principal’s Monthly Report II (PMR II), a key measure used in planning. The latest PMR II membership for WCPSS is 161,115 students, reflecting a net gain of 1,120 students compared to the previous year. “Understanding the forecast process is crucial to being able to understand what lies ahead, what’s going to impact us, what do we know, what don’t we know,” a presenter explained.
Looking ahead, WCPSS anticipates a net gain of approximately 1,305 students in the 2025-26 school year, representing an increase of 0.8%. Over the next 10 years, enrollment is projected to grow by 10%. However, birth rates, migration, and school choice could influence projections. The district will continue adjusting its planning models to reflect these shifts.
More Families Choosing Charter, Private, or Homeschooling
One of the biggest challenges for WCPSS is the rising number of students opting for non-traditional school options, including charter, private, and homeschooling.
Currently, 25.7% of school-age children in Wake County attend non-WCPSS schools, a number that has been steadily increasing. Charter school enrollment grew by 1,176 students (6.6%) in 2024-25, and projections indicate an additional 755-student increase in 2025-26.
The report highlighted that enrollment in non-WCPSS schools has continued to grow, with charter schools expanding. “Future forecasts will include market share data as it has been impacted by the expanded voucher system funded by the General Assembly,” officials noted.
While charter and private schools provide more options for families, these changes impact WCPSS’s ability to plan for funding, staffing, and school capacity.
What This Means for Students and Families
As WCPSS plans for the future, families should be aware of potential changes:
School reassignments may occur as the district shifts boundaries to balance enrollment.
New schools and expansions may be needed in high-growth areas.
Class sizes and staffing could change depending on enrollment shifts.
The district will continue to monitor charter school growth and the impact of private school vouchers.
Officials emphasized that public schools will continue to serve most students in Wake County, though parental decisions will significantly influence future enrollment patterns. Families are encouraged to stay informed about reassignment plans and long-term school capacity strategies. More updates are expected in the coming months.