How does the town determine enrollment numbers?

In 2016, the BHSBC contracted with McKibben Demographics to conduct a comprehensive analysis and forecast of Belmont’s demographics, including population and school enrollment forecasts. To view this report, visit:
http://www.belmont-ma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif12826/f/u116/belmont_publi....

This process was run parallel to the MSBA Demographic study for Belmont, and collectively the design enrollment numbers were confirmed for the project. The design enrollment numbers are the basis for the layout of core classroom spaces in a new building.  In addition to these numbers, there will be enrollment numbers for special classrooms such as LABBB which have yet to be incorporated into the design numbers by the MSBA.  This process will occur during the Feasibility Study Phase.  The design enrollment numbers are 1,470 students for 9-12, 1,845 for 8-12 and 2,215 for 7-12.  The current enrollment for the start of the 2017/2018 school year for grades 9-12 is 1,303 students.

What if we over/under-estimate enrollment and have another Wellington situation?

Elementary schools such as Wellington have a dedicated number of classrooms for each grade level and therefore can absorb less of a capacity increase over the design enrollment numbers. High schools are designed with core classrooms in addition to the other rooms in the school that can be populated with students. The design enrollment, which is not building capacity, is expected to populate the core classrooms, however the other rooms in the school will add capacity above the design enrollment numbers. From comparisons of other MSBA high schools, it is expected that the enrollment capacity for the new/updated building will be 20 to 30 percent higher than the design enrollment.