COLUMBIA — Tuesday was the first day back for Columbia Public Schools students, and the district reports enrollment was 18,720.

This number is considered unofficial, as the official enrollment number is computed on the last Wednesday of September. However, the first-day enrollment number was 74 students more than the 2024-25 school year.

The first day number does not include late enrollments that are still being processed.

What to know about the 2025-26 school year

Columbia Public Schools is following a state-mandated ban on cellphones and personal electronic devices for students to keep students engaged throughout the school day.

Superintendent Jeff Klein said the focus of this school year is to continue to develop strong, positive and learning-focused relationships.

New enrol

See Full Page