Broken Arrow Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Gary Gerber is encouraging the families of Broken Arrow students along with BAPS staff members to take part in the U.S. Census.

“Taking a few minutes to complete the Census questionnaire will help determine the allocation of federal funds for our school district (and all school districts) in such areas as special education, programs for at-risk students and school lunch programs,” Dr. Gerber explained.

2010 U.S. Census questionnaires are being mailed and delivered in February and March to every household in the nation.  From April to July 2010, Census takers will visit households that did not return the questionnaire by mail.

The U.S. Constitution requires a national census once every 10 years.  The Census will show what will be called “official” state population counts and determine representation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“In addition to its impact on school budgets and congressional representation, the Census delivers data that can be used to help determine where new schools are needed or where new roads should be built,” Dr. Gerber said.  “It’s important that everyone in our community be correctly counted through this process.”

Additional information is available at www.census.gov.