Columbia Public Schools enrollment increases

Columbia Public Schools kicked off the 2013-14 school year Tuesday with a higher enrollment compared to last year.

CPS officials say 18,136 students are enrolled in the district, an increase of 248 from last school year.

That number could change as students who are new to the district can continue to register for the next several days.

Overall, CPS spokeswoman Michelle Baumstark said the district had an “excellent opening day” with no major problems reported. She said each school was well-prepared for the first day of classes.

Baumstark did say the new school start and release times, as well as the altered bus routes did cause a some confusion, but overall, the first day was a success.

District leaders will spend this week working to resolve any issues related to class sizes and transportation.