Even in a down economy, Bryan County’s schools continue to grow -- and officials expect another record enrollment when classes start Friday.

"We may not be growing quite as fast as we were, but we expect some growth," said interim Superintendent John Oliver.

He projects approximately 7,400 students will fill classrooms this year -- that’s up from 6,193 just five years ago, according to the Georgia School Board Association. Administrators say Bryan schools, sparked by growth in South Bryan, have grown by approximately five percent annually in recent years.

And while everything will be new to students moving in from other places, returning students and their parents will see some changes.

Among them, school administrators are trying staggered start times in Richmond Hill in an attempt to ease congested traffic along Hwy. 144.

"We think it has the potential of working out nicely for everybody," Oliver said.

Read more in the print edition of the Bryan County News.