School of Choice Application 2026 -2027
The student referenced below has applied for admission to River School under the Schools of Choice Option. We are requesting information in order to evaluate this application as provided for under Section 105 and 105C of the State School Aid Act. Enclosed is a parental release for this information. Your prompt assistance with this form is appreciated, as the student cannot enroll without this information.
Thank you for your interest in Sodus Township School District #5 (River School). Sodus Township S/D #5 operates as a “School of Choice” school district, allowing students from Berrien County ISD, Van Buren County ISD, or Lewis-Cass ISD to apply for admission to Sodus Township School District #5 (River School) without requiring permission from their resident district.
Once admitted, students can continue their education from Kindergarten through 8th grade within our program, provided there are no breaks in enrollment, including expulsion. However, if a student leaves and wishes to return, they must reapply. Furthermore, the district gives enrollment preference to other school-age children residing in the same household as any “School of Choice” student who attended a district school in the preceding year.
Openings are available in the following grade levels for the upcoming school year:
- Kindergarten: 10 openings
- First Grade through Eighth Grade: There will be a limited number of openings for each grade level.
The School of Choice application period for the 2026 -2027 school year is as follows:
- April 20th to May 1st 2026
- August 18th to August 31st 2026
Please note that transportation to and from school is the responsibility of the parent/guardian for all students attending River School.
A non-resident applicant may be refused enrollment if any of the following conditions are met:
- Is or has been suspended from school within the preceding 2 years.
- Has been expelled from school at any time.
- Has been convicted of a felony at any time.
- Requires special education services which are not offered on-site.
Our decision(s) to grant or deny any application will be based on factors allowed under Sec. 105 of the State School Aid Act and not on the applicant’s race, color, national origin, religion, age (except if the applicant’s age is not appropriate to the grade, program, or school), sex, height, weight, marital status, mental or physical disabilities, abilities including athletics, intellectual, academics, artistic talent, or any factors that would be a violation of state or federal law prohibiting discrimination.
If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Laura Lausch, Principal at (269) 925-6757 or email at llausch@riverschoolk8.org.