Norman Public Schools has released its official enrollment numbers that were recorded Oct. 1.

According to NPS, 14,025 children were counted in the district compared to 13,720 students a year ago. That's 305 more students occupying space in classrooms.

Superintendent Dr. Joe Siano said he liked the report he saw.

"We're very pleased our enrollment continues to grow," Siano said. "It's growing at a moderate rate that's good and healthy for the district."

He said he's especially pleased that elementary numbers are up because that again speaks to the long-term health of the district.

"State school funding is really driven by student enrollment," Siano said. "Growth in the district is always a positive thing for funding growth."

Comparing enrollment for 2007 and 2008, Kennedy and Truman Elementary Schools and Whittier Middle School saw the highest enrollment increases in the district.

Kennedy Elementary attendance grew from 473 to 574; Truman's enrollment increased from 770 to 834, and Whittier Middle School's attendance jumped from 927 to 1,001.

Kennedy Elementary principal Chris Crelia said grades pre-k through first have witnessed the largest population growth. This year, NPS added its Bright Beginnings Academy to include two more pre-k sites: La Petite Academy's two locations at 1950 E. Alameda St. and 3300 W. Robinson St.

Crelia said the 35 students who receive pre-k instruction at La Petite's Alameda location were added to Kennedy's enrollment.

He said kindergarten enrollment is up as well.

"We've had really good growth at kindergarten," he said. "It trickles up every year."

Crelia said Kennedy added a third grade teacher to its roster and room space is a little tighter.

"The building looks better than ever," he said. "The teachers have been great with making adjustments and sharing space."

Norman High School, Norman North High School and Jefferson Elementary School saw the largest decrease in student population. Norman High's enrollment lowered from 1,771 to 1,724, and Norman North's attendance dropped from 2,141 to 2,099. Jefferson Elementary School experienced a decrease in students from 399 to 371.