Open Enrollment
Enroll
At Mason City Community School District, we believe every student deserves a place where they feel supported, challenged, and inspired. We welcome families from across Iowa to explore the opportunities available through open enrollment. Whether you are looking for strong academics, engaging activities, or a caring community, we are committed to helping every child succeed. We are proud to open our doors to new students and families each year and look forward to partnering with you on your child’s educational journey.
How to Apply for Open Enrollment
A completed Iowa Department of Education Open Enrollment form must be filed with both the resident and receiving district.
Iowa Open Enrollment Application
Deadlines
| Applications to Approved Online Schools | The deadline does not apply to parents/guardians applying for their student to attend a public school district with an approved online school by the Iowa Department of Education |
| September 1 | Last day a parent/guardian may apply to open enroll their incoming preschool student who received special education services requiring specially designed instruction (SDI). |
| September 1 | Last day a parent/guardian may apply to open enroll their incoming kindergarten student. |
| September 2 | Applications for incoming preschool students requiring SDI and kindergarten students will be denied unless the parent/guardian is able to demonstrate “good cause” under Iowa Code 282.18 |
| March 1 | Application deadline for students in grades 1-12 to open enroll for the upcoming school year. |
| March 2 | Applications for students in grades 1-12 will be denied unless the parent or guardian is able to demonstrate good cause. |
For more information regarding open enrollment Senate File 2435, please visit the Iowa Department of Education.
Open enrollment decisions are determined by several factors, including:
- Classroom space
- Access to appropriate special education programs
- Consideration of student behavioral needs
- Additional criteria as guided by District discretion and state law
*If a parent/guardian moves and wishes for their student to continue at the original resident district under open enrollment, requests cannot be denied due to insufficient classroom space policies.
For more information on open enrollment, please call 641-421-4402.