MUSD Poised for Explosive Growth, According to Phoenix Economist

Maricopa Unified School District (MUSD) is set to undergo significant growth in the coming years, according to a report from consultancy firm Applied Economics. Rick Brammer, the principal at the firm, addressed the school board, noting that while charter schools and open-enrollment options are currently drawing students, this trend is unlikely to persist.

“You’ve got beautiful facilities right now,” remarked Brammer, emphasizing the attractiveness of MUSD’s schools. “There’s no reason to drive somewhere else anymore.”

The firm forecasts the construction of 27,000 new homes and 8,000 apartment units within the district over the next decade. This influx is projected to more than double MUSD’s school-age population, growing from about 16,000 today to approximately 32,000 by 2035.

Applied Economics highlights that MUSD’s demographics reflect a high concentration of young families, suggesting a favorable environment for student enrollment. “Your district is positioned to grow like crazy over the next 10 years,” said Brammer.

By 2030, the district’s population is expected to exceed 100,000, prompting MUSD leaders to strategically plan for this anticipated growth.

Superintendent Tracey Lopeman commented, “Despite slower housing growth, MUSD is on track for steady enrollment increases, driven by young families moving to the area.” She underscored the importance of investing in infrastructure to maintain high educational standards.

Brammer anticipates that competition for students from charter schools will diminish, particularly as challenges to establishing new charter schools increase. “Building a charter school is not as easy as it used to be,” he explained, noting a slowdown in charter school enrollment in Maricopa.

Current enrollment stands at 9,500 students, but projections suggest this number could double over the next decade amid ongoing residential development. “Coming online for this year are 1,340 new housing units,” Brammer confirmed, indicating a corresponding increase in school-aged children.