Attendance down 99 students

Compared to last year, 99 fewer students attended the first day of school in Boundary County. Total attendance was 1,462 students, which does not reflect actual enrollment since every student may not have been in attendance.

On the first day of school in 2007, 1,605 students were in attendance, 143 more students than this year. Attendance held steady in 2008 and 2009 with 1560 and 1561 students, respectively.

“I don’t now why,” said Superintendent Don Bartling. “It might have to do with jobs and the economy.”

Bonners Ferry Middle School had 29 fewer students in attendance, while Bonners Ferry High School had 26 fewer students.

Naples Elementary had five fewer students in attendance and Riverside High School had eight fewer students. Both Valley View Elementary and Mt. Hall Elementary gained students due to the closure of Evergreen Elementary.

“This will have a big impact on the school,” said Bartling. “The district gets paid based on the number of students. Hopefully the numbers will go up.”

Otherwise, Bartling said the first day of school went smoothly. All necessary teachers were hired and the students arrived safely at their desired schools.