Prince William County schools are rapidly growing, according to the Washington Examiner.

The large jump in enrollment has been attributed to the re-occupancy of foreclosed homes, and the high demand for affordable housing.

This news is worthy of homeowners' attention because good, strong schools will attract new families and teachers, which will help boost property values and the local economy.

"Enrollment in Prince William County schools surged by almost 3,000 students this year -- the largest one-year jump since at least 1990.

This year's official enrollment tally of 76,656 students is a 4.1 percent increase over 2008. Last year, student enrollment increased by 1,003, or 1.4 percent.

'Data indicate that the large increase in student enrollment is likely attributed to signs of an economic rebound (e.g. re-occupancy of foreclosed homes and high demand for affordable housing,' the school system said in a release.

Still, the leap in enrollment comes as both the county and the commonwealth head into another difficult budget season. The school board's recently prepared legislative priorities for the 2010 Virginia General Assembly include a request for annual teacher salary increases and a cost-of-competing allocation for Region 4 school divisions.

'We need to continue to be competitive in attracting the best and the brightest teachers,' said Keith A. Imon, associate superintendent for Communications and Technology Services."

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