North Bluegrass News

There were 559 third grade students enrolled in Franklin County schools in the 2022-23 school year, 1.4% less than the previous year, according to the Kentucky Department of Education.

Elkhorn Elementary School welcomed most of the third grade students in the county, registering 97 students.

Within Franklin County schools, the highest student population was found in ninth grade, with the smallest class sizes seen in preschool.

Statewide, Franklin County ranked 21st in enrollment numbers. It was also ranked 21st the year before.

Kentucky is in the midst of a statewide teacher shortage as turnover rates spiked to 10.9% in 2023, up from an 8.9% nine-year average. This issue is more prominent in schools with more low-income and minority students.

Data also shows that between 2019 and 2023, there was an increase of 260% in the number of available teaching posts in Kentucky schools. This often leads to larger class sizes, combining programs, and retaining staff despite potential negative impacts on teacher working conditions.

School	# of 3rd Grade Students Enrolled	% of Student Body	Total Enrollment
Elkhorn Elementary School	97	22.3%	435
Peaks Mill Elementary School	96	21.7%	442
Collins Lane	89	16%	555
Hearn Elementary School	87	20%	434
Bridgeport Elementary School	70	15.9%	440
Second Street School	67	10.8%	618
Westridge Elementary School	53	13%	409