OSKALOOSA, Iowa – Oskaloosa Community Schools are growing. The district’s served enrollment count increased by 36 students this year, marking a steady rise and positioning Oskaloosa above 2020 enrollment levels.
The rebound reflects a larger story taking shape across our campuses, one built on Vision Culture and the belief that students learn best in an environment that loves, empowers, and inspires them. While many rural districts across Iowa continue to face enrollment declines, Oskaloosa’s numbers remain strong, showing long-term stability and community confidence.
More Families Choosing to Open Enroll into Oskaloosa
Oskaloosa continues to draw new families from neighboring districts. 23 additional open-enrolled students joined Osky Schools this year.
That steady increase shows Oskaloosa’s message of “Bigger School, Better Opportunities” is resonating. Families are recognizing that students here don’t just attend school; they build confidence, character, and community and grow into tomorrow’s leaders through their experiences in Oskaloosa.
Oskaloosa doesn’t just welcome new families; it rolls out the maroon carpet. Each campus has trained student tour guides who provide authentic, student-led tours, giving prospective families a true look at daily life in Osky Schools. From the moment a family first walks in the door, students, counselors, secretaries, teachers, custodians, and district leaders work together to make the onboarding process smooth, personal, and memorable. The district also offers a 24/7 hotline for local employers to schedule tours for new hires considering a move to Oskaloosa, demonstrating the strong connection between the schools and community.
“Our team believes that first impressions matter,” said Lisa Brown, Director of Student Information and Enrollment. “When families visit Oskaloosa, they don’t get a script. They get people who care. Everyone plays a role in helping new families feel seen, supported, and excited to join our school community.”
More Families Are Choosing to Stay in Oskaloosa
For the third year in a row, more Oskaloosa families are choosing to stay in the district, reflecting growing confidence in what our schools provide. This year, 14 more students chose to come back to Oskaloosa. This reflects a three-year increase with more than 35 students returning home. Since 2022, more than 10 percent of families who previously considered other options have chosen Oskaloosa, indicating that students and parents recognize the value of staying within our school community.
District leaders attribute this momentum to several key factors: strong academic programs, expanded student leadership opportunities, a clear plan for addressing student behavior disruptions, and clear career pathways that connect learning to life after graduation. From career and technical education and trades to the arts and athletics, Oskaloosa continues to grow opportunities that match the needs and passions of every student.
Oskaloosa Schools Builds Leaders
Whether they’re performing on stage, competing on the field, or serving in the community, Oskaloosa students are learning what leadership looks like. The district’s growth isn’t just in numbers—it’s in the culture being built every day across classrooms and hallways. In addition to activities and athletics, students are challenged academically through rigorous instruction, real-world learning experiences, and career pathways that prepare them for life beyond graduation.
