In an effort to increase revenue, Clarkston Community Schools district is considering open enrollment.
Last week, they released five options and an online survey to gauge community sentiment.
Options include Reggio Kindergarten, a discovery and play-based program from Italy for up to 20 out-of-district and 20 in-district students; Tech K, technology-based, year-round Kindergarten using Project Lead the Way and Coding curricula forup to 10 out-of-district and 12 in-district students; Tech 6/7, career immersion program for sixth and seventh graders; Alternative Junior High School at Renaissance High School, expanding the alternative high school to seventh and eighth graders; and Stars and Stripes, a pilot program in which a small group of “high caliber gymnastic athletes” would be transported to the Stars and Stripes gym in Independence Township for sixth period to have phys-ed/gymnastics class, for up to 10 out-of-district and five in-district students.
Administration is still exploring these ideas and sought feedback from the school board, March 23.
“We are projecting losing as many as 100 students next year, as many as 600 students over the next several years,” said Superintendent Dr. Rod Rock. “As superintendent, I want to do all I can to offset these potential losses.”
Clarkston’s funding from the state is $7,190 per pupil.
Board members accepted exploration of all the proposals, but were skeptical about the Stars and Stripes idea.
“If it’s OK for some athletes not to have to take phys. ed in Clarkston, why shouldn’t it be OK for everybody not to take it ? figure skaters, marching band, karate,” asked board Vice President Susan Boatman.
Treasurer Joan Patterson said other businesses would wonder why they weren’t included in the plan.
Deputy Superintendent Shawn Ryan said they could be if the pilot program works out.
“If it’s successful and generates revenue, it would be an opportunity for partnerships with any organization or sport,” Ryan said.
Trustee Kelli Horst said the partnership is a good start.
“Deer Lake Athletic, Oakhurst, bring it on,” Horst said. “They fit the culture and character of the community, a very involved, outdoor, athletic participatory community. I’m really looking forward to seeing more details on this.”
Board members also favored the Reggio, play-based Kindergarten idea more than Tech K, as well as a year-round class schedule.
“Why not just year-round Kindergarten,” asked Trustee Elizabeth Egan. “That would be an attractive option to parents.”
Administration will continue to develop an open-enrollment proposal with input from the board and the survey, found at www.surveymonkey.com/s/HFJJ7MP, Rock said.