This report provides an overview of Texas enrollment trends and growth of special instructional programs, and redistribution of the student population geographically and by community type. National enrollment trends are also presented. In the 10 years from 1987-88 to 1997-98, Texas public school enrollment increased at a faster rate than national enrollment. The student population increased in both size and diversity as African American, Hispanic, and other minority students became a majority of the total enrollment. The number of Hispanic students increased by 45 percent in the last decade. The African American student population grew at a slower rate than the total student population. Student participation in special instructional programs also increased over the past decade. Of the 666,961 students added to the Texas public education system between 1987-88 and 1997-98, over 60 percent were students receiving special education or bilingual education/English as a second language (ESL) services. Texas is divided into 20 geographic regions, each served by an education service center. Enrollment trends for each region are presented based on total students and percentage that are economically disadvantaged. Percentages of each region's students participating in special programs in 1997-98 are listed for special education, bilingual/ESL, gifted and talented, and career and technology. Enrollment trends are also presented by school's community type on a scale ranging from major urban to rural. The report contains figures, data tables, and 15 references. (CDS)