Saratoga News

It's school registration time

By Torre Peña

While most people are eagerly anticipating spring, the Saratoga Union School District is busy gearing up for next fall. Registration packets for new K-8 students for the 1997-98 school year will be available at the district office begining April 1.

The district's open enrollment policy allows residents to choose among Argonaut, Foothill and Saratoga schools for K-5 students. All students in grades 6-8 attend Redwood Middle School.

Residents have the right to choose schools as long as space is available; however, placement is not determined on a first-come, first-served basis, stressed Kathy Devich, administrative assistant to the superintendent.

A lottery will be held on June 18 if requests for a grade level at a specific site exceed the space available. Notification of school placement will be given by July 1.

The district makes an effort to keep families together, said Devich, and parents with students already enrolled are strongly urged to register their younger children at the same school.

All children need up-to-date immunization records signed by a doctor. First-graders need a health examination form completed, and kindergarteners need a birth certificate.

To prove residency, home owners must produce a property tax bill, PG&E bill and one piece of business mail. Renters must show their lease, a copy of a canceled rent check and a utility bill and a piece of business mail. An affidavit must be signed if the parent is living with a relative.

The district advises parents to complete registration materials at home and compile the required documentation before returning the materials to the district office.

"The easiest way to register is to take home the packet and get it all squared away," Devich said.

If parents wish to visit a school site, they need to contact that school.

The district office is located at 20460 Forrest Hills Drive. For more information, contact Karen King at 867-3424, ext. 200.