Twenty-three people spoke at a public hearing Monday night addressing the possible closure of Kennedy Middle School in Hays. All of those who spoke expressed their wishes to keep Kennedy open. A parent and former teacher in the district, Jana Wellbrock, said eliminating choice and increasing class sizes is detrimental.

The Board of Education is considering closing the school, which is leased, after next year and moving the students to Felten. The board will have a special meeting Wednesday night at 6:30 to vote on the issue.