Aug 27, 2020

Wedel: Enrollment may have been impacted by Haven's in person choice

Posted Aug 27, 2020 2:50 PM

By NICK GOSNELL

Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Haven USD 312 is starting school in person and USD 312 Superintendent Clark Wedel believes there may have been an impact on enrollment because of that choice.

"We were concerned that we could be down 10 to 15%," Wedel said. "Currently, with what we believe our numbers are, it's less than 10%, somewhere in the range of 8 to 9%. Certainly, we've got a drop currently and we never really know. Sometimes they don't enroll and we still see them prior to count day on September 20."

The intent is that as long as infections don't spike, in person instruction will continue.

"The majority were anxious for the kids to get back in school," Wedel said. "We have some concerns on the other side, as well. Concerns for safety and just some apprehension about coming back."

The district wants to make clear that illness will be taken seriously if it occurs.

"We know that this could mean more absences, whether its kids or faculty," Wedel said. "Obviously, if a kid comes in with a temperature or a staff member comes in with a temperature, I think our level is 100.4, they would be sent back home at that point."

Also, those riding buses in the district will be temperature checked and must wear a mask to ride.