Open enrollment has led to some competition between school districts in Klamath Falls, and there’s a lot at stake.
Melissa Cerone transferred to Mazama High School to prepare for a career in business management…
“I am currently graduating with 60 college credits that I don’t believe I would have been able to build up in another school.”
While tight budgets have taken a toll on elective classes in some schools, Mazama Principal Terry Bennett has taken a different approach…
“I’d rather increase a class size by a couple students in our core academics, and keep a construction program – keep a culinary arts program.”
Having more students inproves the chances of keeping those elective classes, and Bennett notes that there’s also a financial benefit…
“As students come into the district, you’re going to collect money from the state.”
As a result, open enrollment has led to more active recruiting for students between city and county school districts.
“We want to be cheerleaders – we’re proud of what we offer our students.” Bennett says.
Open enrollment applies to all schools, and all grades from kindergarten through twelfth grade. And as districts compete, it’s hoped that students will be the winners – and help keep Melissa’s dreams alive: “My biggest dream right now is to be a CEO at Nike, Inc.”
And it’s the schools that are getting lessons in business marketing.
Paperwork for transfer requests for Klamath Falls City Schools, or Klamath County Schools must be turned in to district offices by the end of this month.
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