Partially because of falling birth rates, public schools in Oregon are experiencing dropping enrollment. The pandemic-era boom in private school enrollment is also now declining. Although current numbers in college enrollment are up locally, will those enrollment numbers fall noticeably in the next 10 to 15 years if current birth trends continue? Will new college student housing eventually become a burden of empty buildings?

Dreams of a healthy future can flourish if we embrace collaboration and sharing of resources as a new norm. Although it is challenging, bringing two wonderful local public schools together — like Camas Ridge and Family School — could turn out to be a great experience for both schools. Willamette University and Pacific University, two of the oldest schools in Oregon, are merging and will share resources and expand opportunities. They will also survive dropping enrollment.

I think increased collaboration could create a strong and positive future for our schools and communities.

Barb Stevens-Newcomb
Eugene