KP Student Population Increases

The King Philip School District has seen its student population brush against its capacity this year, but district officials said the issue will likely resolve itself naturally.

Dr. Elizabeth Zielinski, the district superintendent, said the high school has seen a good number of students recently.

"We're facing a big bubble in terms of population this year and next year," she said. "The high school's capacity is 1,359, and we currently have approximately 1,290 students."

According to Zielinski, though, the high numbers appear to be temporary.

"The sixth grade is a good size in Wrentham and Norfolk, and a little small in Plainville," she said. "We're anticipating things will be about even."

"I don't think they'll be a continuation of the big bubble," she added. "That's based on the numbers of elementary school students."

Zielinski said the current economy may play a role in the increased population.

"Fewer parents are deciding to opt out and go into private schools," she said.

The economy, she said, could also play a role in ultimately bringing enrollment down.

"We were anticipating a larger bubble, but a lot of people are moving out of the area," she said. "People are still dealing with the economy that way as well."