RICHARDSON, Texas — With school funding tied to enrollment numbers, Richardson Independent School District (RISD) is taking a new approach to student recruitment. The district has launched its first-ever “apartment blitz,” sending dozens of educators door-to-door to local apartment complexes to encourage families to enroll their children.
“We want you in pre-K,” said Superintendent Tabitha Branum, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education. She wants preschool enrollment numbers to be as high as kindergarten numbers.
The effort comes as Texas public schools struggle with declining enrollment and stagnant state funding. It has been six years since the state increased per-student funding, and the current legislative session shows little promise of additional financial support. Governor Greg Abbott continues to prioritize private school vouchers…