By Staff Writer, Lissette Talledo

Declining enrollment has been a growing trend in the Glendale Unified School District (GUSD) lately. The Board of Education completed a study on dwindling enrollment rates for the past two years and concluded that its catalyst has been increased property values in Glendale, as well as Hoover’s false reputation as a dangerous school.
With the estimated median household income at $49,750 and the average monthly rent at approximately $1,022, many families are relocating to other more affordable cities and different districts.
“I have friends who want to live in Glendale since they  live in dangerous areas,” parent Gloria Hernandez said. “However, they can’t because rent here is too high and their salaries aren’t enough to cover expenses.”
Last year, a decline of over 100 students resulted in the release of three teachers at this school.
“I am forced to reduce staff and keep constricting the master schedule; it is so hard and upsetting to have to cut, especially to lose teachers,” said Principal Kevin Welsh.
Welsh wants to eliminate the “bad stereotypes” that are commonly associated with Hoover, such as its false reputation as a school of gang-inflicted violence and racial tension.
“I recruit elementary-feeder schools like Keppel and Balboa [by] creating relationships with potential Hoover students and their parents, making myself accessible to them,” said Welsh. “Then, I invite them to visit the campus, see our students and great classes, and programs we offer.”
Welsh also stated that Superintendent Michael Escalante allowed him extra staffing to bring back the Marching Band, Choir, and the Theatre Arts/Drama program in order to “attract families.”
In July, administrators will have the official number of students attending for next year.