District news
Enrollment fell for the eighth straight year; kindergarten smallest since 1985
What happened
Newton had 11,335 students on October 1, 2025, down 159 (1.4%) from last year. The kindergarten class of 687 was the smallest since 1985, and the district expects about 11,218 students next year.
Why it matters to families
Fewer students affects staffing, budgets and building plans, including the Ward and Underwood decision. The district expects declines for two to three more years before leveling off near 11,150.
The evidence
The January 2026 Enrollment Analysis Report, presented January 7, gives the October 1 count, the eighth straight decline, the kindergarten size and five-year projections.
The source
Enrollment Analysis Report 2025-26 to 2030-31See the full record for Newton Public Schools.
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