Highlands School District changes public track hours

The Highlands School District is closing its track to the public during the school day, district spokeswoman Jennifer Goldberg said Friday.

The track, in Golden Rams Stadium behind Highlands Middle School, had been open from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day, unless an athletic event was going on.

When students were using the facility during the school day, residents were supposed to refrain from using the track at the same time, or leave when school personnel asked, Goldberg said.

“This didn't always happen,” she said.

As a result, the track will now be closed to the public during the school day, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and when student athletic events are on the track and field.

“This procedure will be enforced by the Highlands Police, as student safety is our top priority,” Goldberg said.

The track's new hours during the school year are 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; and 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

In the summer and on days when school is not in session, the track will remain open from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Brian C. Rittmeyer is a Tribune-Review staff writer. Reach him at 724-226-4701, brittmeyer@tribweb.com or on Twitter @BCRittmeyer.