M-DCPS RECORDS SUCCESSFUL OPENING DAY OF SCHOOLS


August 27, 2001
RELEASED: 5:45 P.M.

Some 326,451 Miami-Dade students returned to public schools today in what school officials and parents throughout the county are calling one of the smoothest opening days in memory.

That figure represents an increase of 6,300 kindergarten through 12th-grade students from last year's opening day figure of 320,151.

Last year's enrollment peaked in October at 361,024; this year's enrollment is expected to peak at 364,307, an increase of more than 3,000.

"This year's opening of schools was the smoothest we have ever had," G. W. Carver Middle School Principal Libia Gonzalez said. Carver parent and volunteer Jill Shockett echoed Gonzalez's assessment: "It doesn't even feel like the first day."

The day brought a number of firsts. Two new schools opened, Hubert O. Sibley Elementary, 255 N.W. 155th St., and Eugenia B. Thomas Elementary, 5950 N.W. 114th Ave., bringing the total number of schools to 354. Also, the school system will fully implement the Sterling Management System to assist the School Board in enhancing management practices this year.

"Each new school year represents growth, for the student moving from one grade to the next or graduating to a whole new world of higher education or work," Superintendent of Schools Roger C. Cuevas said. "If today is any indication, a very successful school year lies ahead. I commend our employees and students for a job well done in opening schools today."

To assist parents with school transportation questions, the transportation hotline will stay open weekdays through Sept. 7, from 7 a.m-5 p.m. The number is 305-995-7555.

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