OCPS enlists third party to help boost enrollment

Facing declining enrollment number, the Orange County School Board on April 22 approved a partnership with Caissa Public Strategy LLC.

According to OCPS officials, the district is entering this partnership to boost enrollment. The district is facing declining numbers because of competition through Florida’s expanded voucher program, as well as declining birth rates.

The goal of the partnership is to encourage formerly enrolled students to return to OCPS-operated schools by showcasing the district’s programs and offerings, officials said.

OCPS receives about $8,950 in state funding for every student who re-enrolls and attends an OCPS-operated school for at least 30 days. Per the partnership, Caissa would receive $935 per student — 10.44% — who re-enrolls and meets that 30-day threshold. The district then would receive $8,015 per student.

“This initiative provides a new avenue for OCPS to promote its schools and highlight the strong educational opportunities available to students and families who live in Orange County and are not enrolled in OCPS,” Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez said.

OCPS’ agreement is a piggyback on a similar existing agreement Caissa has with Klein Independence School District, in Klein, Texas.

Caissa Public Strategy LLC is a Memphis, Tennessee-based strategic communications firm that also operates an office in Washington, D.C. Since its founding, Caissa has represented more than 400 clients in more than 10 states.