OTTAWA — Most school districts in Franklin County report their enrollments are down this year. Schools reported their enrollments for this year to the state this week. School officials said the bad economy is responsible, with families moving in with parents and friends elsewhere. Ottawa Supt. Dean Katt said Ottawa enrollment is down by 20. Although enrollment is tied to state school aid, Katt said the district won’t see a decline in state funds. According to the state law, the district can use last year’s enrollment as a basis for this year’s state school aid. Although the enrollment is down, Katt said he expects the enrollment to change and possibly catch up or exceed last year’s totals. Wellsville Supt. Denise O’Dea said she reported a drop in enrollment of 21. It’s first time since she’s been superintendent, which is 13 years, that she’s reported a decline for Wellsville schools. West Franklin’s Dotson Bradbury said his district’s enrollment is down by 62, mostly at Appanoose and Williamsburg elementary schools. Central Heights is the exception. Supt. Jim White said his school’s enrollment is up 20. The gain is a surprise, he said. Last year, he figured there would be a slight decline this year and he said he’s not sure why Central Heights gained.
Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2:30 p.m.
