Bradley Union celebrates second year of rising student enrollment
District bucks trend, posts 43% enrollment growth
– The Bradley Union School District , a small, rural district in Bradley, Calif., about 20 minutes north of Paso Robles, has seen significant enrollment growth over the past two years. Census Day data shows a 43% increase in enrollment since 2022, marking the first time in 12 years that the school has experienced back-to-back increases on Census Day.
Board Member June Yardley described the district's commitment, saying, "Bradley is a tiny, but fierce school district that strives to provide the best educational experience for every student."
Superintendent Josh Van Norman attributed the growth to the support of the school board, dedicated staff, and a community invested in student success. "When you have a supportive school board, fantastic staff, and a school community that wants what's best for all students, great things happen," Van Norman said.
California observed Census Day on Oct. 2, when enrollment numbers are officially recorded. Bradley's positive numbers contrast with a broader trend in public education where many districts face declining enrollment, leading some to consider school closures and staff reductions.
Dr. Deneen Guss, County Superintendent of Schools, noted Bradley's achievements as a testament to the district's values. "As a small, rural school district, I am proud to see Bradley Union School District thriving and offering high-quality education that reflects the unique values and strengths of its community," Guss said.
She cited Bradley's personalized learning, close relationships between educators and families, and a safe environment as key factors.
Carolyn Swanson, a member of the Pacific Grove Unified School Board and the California School Boards Association's Small School Board Advisory Workgroup, praised Bradley's leadership in an era of declining enrollment.
"It is inspiring to see that, here in Monterey County, under the leadership of Superintendent Josh Van Norman, we have a school district that is bucking the trend of declining enrollment in public education," she said.
For more about the district, watch its latest video below:
