In a recent school board meeting, passionate pleas from parents and student athletes highlighted significant concerns regarding the treatment of varsity cross country teams at Ayala High School. Monica Paz, a concerned parent, urged the board to allocate district funding for the varsity team to attend the Running Lane Championship in Alabama, emphasizing the need for strong leadership and integrity from athletic directors. She called for the removal of the current athletic director and the coach from Chino Hills High School, stating that student athletes deserve better representation.

Emily Barajas, a cross country athlete, expressed her frustration over an administrative error that has barred her team from competing in the CIF championships. She articulated the emotional toll this situation has taken on her and her teammates, particularly seniors who may miss their final opportunity to compete. Barajas demanded accountability for the clerical mistake, questioning the motivations behind the complaint that led to this predicament.

The board members listened to the concerns but did not provide immediate comments during the meeting. The discussion underscored the need for transparency and support for student athletes, as well as the importance of addressing administrative issues that directly impact their opportunities to compete. The meeting also included procedural items, such as the approval of a real estate agreement, but the emotional appeals from the athletes and parents dominated the discourse.