The Racine Unified School District (RUSD) is making strides in student enrollment, as highlighted during the recent Board Work Session on July 7, 2025. The district reported a slight increase in market share, rising from 63% to 64.3% over the past year, indicating a growing preference among local families for RUSD schools.

Key discussions during the meeting centered on the district's strategic goal to boost enrollment by 2% by 2027, with a target of at least 65% of parents choosing RUSD for their children's education. The breakdown of enrollment figures showed positive trends across various school levels, with elementary and middle schools experiencing slight increases. However, high school enrollment saw a minor decline, dropping from 72.7% to 72%.

The meeting also addressed the importance of understanding gender proficiency in academic performance. Board member Miss Fluor raised a question about the availability of data on gender disparities in student achievement, emphasizing the need for the district to assess its standing in light of national trends indicating significant gender gaps in education.

In addition to enrollment figures, the district discussed the movement of students to other educational institutions. Approximately 35.7% of students are attending non-district schools, with 22% opting for private education and 8% open enrolling in other districts. The most common destinations for these students include Union Grove and Oak Creek, as well as private institutions like Prairie School and Saint Catherine's.

As RUSD continues to focus on enhancing its appeal to families, the district is optimistic about the potential for increased enrollment and improved academic outcomes. The board's commitment to addressing gender proficiency and market share reflects a proactive approach to meeting the educational needs of the community. Moving forward, the district aims to leverage these insights to foster a more inclusive and successful educational environment for all students.