Initial enrollment count down slightly

A preliminary count shows 788 students enrolled in Mineral Point Schools, school board members heard Monday night.

The number is down 12 students compared to the beginning of the last school year. The new class entering the school district is smaller than the graduating class by 12. 

Twenty fewer students are enrolled in high school, four fewer in middle school and a dozen more in elementary school. 

The student count on the third Friday in September determines state aid. 

The board also heard: 

• For the first time this year, high school students deposit their cellphones in a storage rack in each classroom during class or study hall. Students can check their phones between classes. 

• Building administrators report a smooth start to the school year. 

• For the second consecutive year, the district had no restraint or seclusion incidents. The state Department of Public Instruction requires an annual report. De-escalation techniques are part of staff training. 

• Artificial intelligence in education is the topic of a board strategic plan work session Sept. 29. Representatives from Cooperative Educational Service Agency 3 and Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission will speak.