Transcript Staff Writer

The Hispanic population has increased throughout the public school system, according to findings released by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Last week, the State Department of Education issued a press release that indicated a record number of 641,721 students were enrolled in Oklahoma public schools on Oct. 1. Hispanic children accounted for 10 percent of the student population. The figure jumped from 4.5 percent, recorded in October 1997.

In Cleveland County, the number of Hispanic children attending public school has risen as well in the same period, according to area school districts.

As of Oct. 1, 2007, statistics showed 13,720 students were enrolled in Norman Public Schools. The majority of those attending class in the district are Caucasian and account for 71.23 of the population. The number of Hispanic children climbed to 6.67 percent compared to 6.41 percent recorded a year earlier.

Superintendent Dr. Joe Siano said the district reflects the changing demographics in the community.

"We are a more diverse school district and it should be celebrated," he said.

Siano said the English Language Learner (ELL) program is one of several resources NPS has used to help ethnic students adapt to their new surroundings. ELL focuses on those who meet criteria and enhances their language skills.

"Forty-eight languages are spoken in the district," he said.

Siano said he views cultural diversity as a strength, and knows NPS' close proximity to the University of Oklahoma plays a role. Cultural and language barriers can exist, but using the proper resoucres and programs can help overcome the challenges.

Moore Public Schools Superintendent Deborah Arato said the only ethnic group that rose in population from the 2006-07 school year through now was Hispanic. White, black and Asian populations showed no changes and American Indian students dropped from 14 percent to 12 percent.

"We have seen an increase in the Hispanic population," the superintendent said.

Arato said MPS employees are doing their best to accommodate students' needs and implement the ELL program.

"You have to really work with youngsters over time until their language skills increase," Arato said.

She said teachers are dedicated to teaching all children and they know it takes an extra effort when there are barriers.