Student Enrollment on the Rise in Newark

After years of declining student enrollment, Newark has seen the first significant increase in a decade in the number of families attending traditional public schools.

Total enrollment is expected to increase by at least 1,000 students this year, many of whom are pre-kindergarteners.

Despite 190 students not having a school to attend on the first day, about 90 percent of students did attend class on the opening days.

The district's new shuttle service has seen low participation, though. Just 245 students — of the 3,000 who are eligible — are taking the free school bus. It’s an option for students whose schools were closed or relocated this year.