Wake Schools Running Out Of Space

Posted 10:46 a.m. Sep 21, 2004 — Updated 10:46 a.m. Sep 21, 2004

RALEIGH, N.C. — As of the 20th day of school, the Wake County school system had 114,092 students enrolled, which is 5,100 students more than last year. School officials said schools will be short about 5,000 seats at the beginning of the next school year, meaning they may have to get creative with their classrooms.

One option is using modular schools that will temporarily house students before moving into one of the new schools.

A modular wing is currently being set up during renovations at Millbrook High School. The units come complete with bathrooms, hallways, lockers and offices. The school system said it would cost $8 million to buy two modular schools.

"The problem is the cost is so high," school board member Beverly Clark said. "I really think we've got more questions than answers. We need to get those answers before we make a decision on these."

Another idea to deal with growth is mandatory year-round on a temporary basis for schools in the crowded areas of Raleigh and north Raleigh.

A facilities committee discussed their ideas Tuesday and will present the information to the school board. The school board will vote on the possible options at the Oct. 5 meeting.

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