788 enrolled in year-round schools
By SCOTT POWELL Ledger Staff Writer spowell@gaffneyledger.com

Nearly 800 students were enrolled Wednesday when year-round schools finished their tenth day of classes.

Luther Vaughan Elementary had 281 students, according to a 10-day enrollment report released by the district. Mary Bramlett Elementary had 262 students while Alma Elementary reported an enrollment of 245 students.

The district has a total of 788 students enrolled in year-round schools this summer. These figures are up from last year's total of 780 students for the 10th day of school, one of several benchmarks used for school enrollment. School funding is based on the 135th day of enrollment.

"We have seen a slight enrollment increase in yearround schools," Cherokee County Superintendent Dr. Bill James said. "We usually gain new students when the traditional school year starts."

The enrollment increase has occurred with the opening of 3- and 4-year-old kindergarten programs. The district expects year-round schools will pick up additional students from out-of-state and the return of students once the traditional school year starts Aug. 18.

This is the fifth year the district has offered yearround school at Luther Vaughan, Mary Bramlett and Alma elementaries. Most of the county schools operate on the traditional 9- month school year.

Students in year-round schools have their year broken up into three intersession breaks. Teachers spend one week helping students with academic programs and another week on enrichment activities. Schools are closed the third week of intersession.

"The year-round school program is another option that is offered to help meet the different needs of our students," James said. "We are pleased with how the year-round schools have worked with some students. Students have an opportunity in the intersessions to advance in their academic work and get help from teachers with any academic problems during the school year."