For the first time, the department report predicted school growth through the next century. These numbers will grow, officials say, because of increasing immigration to this country and a second American baby boom, coming two generations after the record births in the middle of the 20th century. The report came as Democrats renewed their call for funds they say would thwart a school-crowding crisis in America. Many communities need to be building more schools now. Once again this session, House and Senate leaders have blocked Clinton's education proposals, which include dedicating federal money for states to hire more teachers and raise construction bonds for new schools.
Figures show suburban schools also are bursting.
Some of the counties surrounding Atlanta and Washington, D.C., have nearly doubled their school enrollments over the decade. California, Texas and New York expect to enroll the most children this year. Nevada, Arizona and Florida have posted the highest rates of student growth over the last decade. Educators said Monday the enrollment figures should push lawmakers past the impasse. Maybe these numbers are going to push them into reality.