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Grafton, N.D. (AP) School superintendents in northeastern North Dakota report fewer students this year but they say the families of pipeline workers are making up for some of the decline.

North Border School Superintendent Joe DeFoe says enrollment at his school is down about 10 students from last year, to a total of 452. He says the families of pipeline workers have enrolled their children in schools in Neche, Walhalla and Pembina, and they'll be in the area until February or March.

Enbridge, Inc. is building a crude oil pipeline from Canada through part of Pembina County and northwestern Minnesota.

Cavalier reports an enrollment of 391 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Superintendent Francis Schill says it's down "15 or 16" from last fall. Drayton reports an enrollment about the same as last year.

Tuesday marks the deadline for schools to report their enrollment to the state.

Information from: KXPO-AM (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-15-09 0631CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list