By Rod Zook
hutchpost.com
BUHLER, Kan. — The decision by the Buhler USD 313 school district to limit participation in extracurricular activities to those students who attend school in person versus those who attend online has been met with mixed reactions. Superintendent Cindy Couchman says she has heard from both sides of the aisle and said it was a decision that was not made lightly.
“Looking at what our safety precautions are in the buildings, and knowing that they’re pretty high, and parents may be making the decision not to bring their students to school because of the safety and health concerns, then having them participate in activities and athletics may not be the best safety procedure for them,” Couchman said. “Our buildings will be implementing safety procedures in our activities and athletics. Obviously just the nature of the event are a higher risk.”
The district is also working on how to keep student athletes and those participating in music, band, and similar activities safe during the school year. The Board made the decision during a special meeting that was held to announce the reopening plans for the next school year.