Horry County Faces Student Enrollment Decline

Horry County Experiences Enrollment Decline Amid Charter School Transfers

Horry County Schools has reported a decline in student enrollment since the beginning of the school year, which started a month ago. The decrease is largely attributed to students transferring to charter schools in the area. The district had anticipated an increase in enrollment but instead has seen a net loss of students as families seek alternative educational options.

As of September 12, a total of 2,541 students have withdrawn from Horry County Schools (HCS), with 1,088 students transferring to charter schools, private schools, virtual schools, or opting for homeschooling. The newly opened Discovery School at Myrtle Beach has seen a rapid increase in enrollment, boasting over 600 students already registered this school year.

Parents are increasingly looking for charter schools due to their focus on more individualized learning experiences and enhanced support for students dealing with anxiety. This trend was noted by district officials, who mentioned the importance of understanding withdrawal reasons, especially among high school students. Superintendent Cliff Jones indicated that the enrollment decline poses challenges for budgeting and future planning for HCS.

Enrollment Numbers and Trends

Despite expectations of significant enrollment growth, current projections indicate that the district will fall nearly 1,000 students short of its goal for the year. The enrollment data indicates that 2,475 students withdrew from HCS at the start of the 2025-26 school year, with around 1,100 students moving to charter schools or alternative education systems.

Recent discussions at the Board of Education meeting highlighted concerns regarding the competitive school market. Board member Pam Dawson stressed the critical importance of “customer service” when it comes to retaining students, as parents are very sensitive to how responsive schools are to their needs. In response to the rising competition from charter schools, the Board of Education is actively exploring ways to improve offerings for students.

Community Impact and Future Plans

The Horry County area has seen an influx of new families, creating a demand for more educational options. As notable as the decline in enrollment is, it is compounded by the fact that 23 out of 49 schools in the district are already at or above 95% capacity. This has resulted in ongoing concerns regarding overcrowding and resource allocation within HCS.

Recently established charter schools such as Atlantic Collegiate Academy and Coastal High School have successfully enrolled many former HCS students. Moving forward, the Board of Education plans to monitor enrollment trends and revisit discussions on this topic quarterly to adjust and strategize based on community needs and competitive pressures.

What is the enrollment decline in Horry County Schools this year?

The enrollment decline is reported as 2,541 students have withdrawn since the beginning of the school year.

To which types of schools are students transferring?

As of September 12, 1,088 students have transferred to charter schools, private schools, virtual schools, or are being homeschooled.

What are some reasons parents are choosing charter schools?

Parents are seeking charter schools for more individualized learning and increased support for students with anxiety.

How is the decline affecting Horry County Schools?

Superintendent Cliff Jones noted that the decline is creating disruptions in budgeting and future planning for the district.

How many students is the district projected to be short this year?

The district’s projected enrollment is nearly 1,000 students short for the year.

What is being done to address the competitive school market?

The Board of Education is considering ways to improve offerings for students and is monitoring enrollment to revisit discussions quarterly.

How many schools in the district are over capacity?

23 out of 49 schools are at or above 95% capacity.