(WEAU) La Crosse County- Public school open enrollment begins today for the next school year.

The only difference is that the application period has been extended, due to the new education law Governor Walker set in place.

Sue Hanson has a daughter in 2nd grade. She, like many parents, hoped to find the perfect school for her daughter.

“I wanted to find out how all about the school. We didn’t choose our house for the school district; we were already living at our home,” said Hanson.

Hanson said Sand Lake Elementary is the right place for her daughter, but added that parents who are actually thinking about open enrollment probably don't need the extension.

“I don’t think there was a need for the extension. I think anybody thinking about moving their student already knew what they were going to do, and were prepared to already make the decision and move,” said Hanson.

Roger Fruit from Onalaska School District agrees.

“Parents have a pretty good idea what they want to do with their son or daughter,” said Fruit.

For many schools the extended enrollment will make things tough.

“By going to April 30th, it will make it tough for budget purposes. We need to give notice by the end of April; and it’s almost the same time as the end of the extension. That makes it difficult for the planning you may need for the next year,” said Foegen.

For smaller schools like Bangor, being on the border line with enrollment could mean quick cuts, or changes next year.

“The term Open Enrollment can be misleading. Parents that don’t have access to transportation for their kids, don’t have the option of Open Enrollment. But for those that do have the transportation, the options of school districts are limitless.

“Many times it’s a choice of convenience; my child’s day care is in the area, or it's on my way to work,” said Fruit.

Superintendent Roger Foegen points out that there are some pro’s along with the cons.

“The big pro is the flexibility for parents, it gives them time to make up their mind.”

Open enrollment has been growing. The Department of Public Instruction says, almost 35 thousand students transferred schools last year.

It is predicted that 37 thousand will transfer this year.