More things change, more things stay the same

For 60 years or so, Oconee school leaders have counted enrollments of 10 thousand students.  The county’s population has seen an approximate 50% increase, but many who’ve taken up new residence in the Golden Corner are of an age that they don’t bring school-age children.  The latest Oconee enrollment number, as reported by the district superintendent, is 10,185.  Dr. Michael Thorsland gave a positive back-to-school report last night to the county’s five school trustees.  Thorsland showed pleasant surprise that, from his observations on the second day of classes, students appeared willing to learn.  He gives credit to the teachers and staff for their preparations that have made for a positive opening for the 2023-24 year.  Anyone who walks into an Oconee school building is likely to notice increased security measures, including solid partitions that separate visitors from school receptionists.  At some schools, a visitor must face two locked doors before entering.