HERMISTON - Eastern Oregon's largest school district keeps getting larger. The Hermiston School District this year welcomed more than 5,020 students - including a 434-student kindergarten class - according to enrollment figures the district released Wednesday.
That's the district's largest total ever, and its first time exceeding 5,000 students. The 2009-10 year marks the 13th consecutive year of growth for Hermiston.
But despite budget cuts and staff reductions coupled with those increases, the district said it's kept class sizes under control.
Average student-to-teacher ratios stand at 21:1 for kindergarten levels, 23:1 for primary levels and 25:1 for third through fifth grades, according to the district.
Core classes at Hermiston High School average about 30:1.
Hermiston's five elementary schools are mostly at capacity this year, despite the use of 10 modular classrooms at those buildings. Enrollment typically dwindles slightly through the school year in most districts.
At least some relief is in sight for the district. The fall 2011 opening of three replacement buildings for three schools - West Park Elementary School, Sunset Elementary School and Armand Larive Middle School - will increase district capacity by about 500 students.
The district's previous record was 4,814 students, set near this time last year.
- Eric Florip
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