Open enrollment impact

Marathon County - Since 1998, parents have had the chance to choose what public school their children attend, even if it's in a different district. Open enrollment gives families more flexibility, but it can also alter district budgets.

At DC Everest, the district loses about 15 students a year. That adds up to about $100,000. But leaders say it's not a big problem because they plan for it.

Dr. Tom Owens, Assistant Superintendent of Business says, "Well $100,000 in our budget is less than 2/10 of one percent so in terms of the overall mission of the district it's not significantly detrimental to us."

The Wausau School District on the other hand gains about 35 students each year which means a surplus of over $200,000.

Jeff Joyce, Director of Pupil Services, "In these days of very tight budgets, every student does make a difference."

In an area like Milwaukee, losses add up to tens of millions of dollars a year.

Joyce says, "There are situations where it has made a big impact on their budget but up in our area we don't find so much disparity."

So why do students switch districts?

Owens says, "Typically the reasons people choose open enrollment is because they move from one district to another and they'd like their child to finish at the high school they started with."

Leaders also say some parents like to have their kids go to school close to where they work, which can make it easier to drop them off or pick them up. Charter schools are also a draw.

Joyce says, "That might be a reason for a parent to want to open enroll because it's more of a unique learning experience."

Open enrollment forms have to be completed online sometime between now and February 19th.

Applications can be rejected under certain conditions. For example, some schools just don't have the capacity to take on more students.

To apply, visit http://dpi.wi.gov/sms/psctoc.html