The Park Ridge Community Consolidated School District 64 Board of Education meeting held on March 22, 2025, focused on demographic trends and enrollment projections for the district. The meeting began with a discussion on factors influencing student enrollment, particularly housing turnover and birth rates in Park Ridge and Niles.

A representative presented data indicating that while birth rates fluctuate, they remain stable overall, suggesting no significant decline in incoming kindergarten students. The analysis highlighted that the number of children under age five could potentially increase, supporting a positive outlook for future enrollment.

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) provided population projections, which the presenter noted have historically been on the high side. However, it was emphasized that neither Park Ridge nor Niles is expected to see a decrease in population, which is a crucial factor for school enrollment.

The meeting then transitioned to a detailed examination of three enrollment projection series—labeled A, B, and C—based on varying assumptions about housing turnover. Series A reflects a conservative estimate with lower turnover rates, while Series C anticipates higher turnover rates leading to an influx of families with school-aged children. Series B, deemed the most likely scenario, predicts stable housing turnover consistent with historical data.

The board discussed the implications of these projections, particularly how they are informed by historical data on student migration and housing sales. The presenter assured that the projections are grounded in concrete data regarding the impact of housing turnover on student enrollment, providing a reliable basis for future planning.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of understanding demographic trends in shaping the district's educational strategies. The board plans to continue monitoring these factors closely to ensure that the needs of the community and its students are met effectively.