Bedford County board fails motion to allow public school sports competition

In a charged atmosphere at the Bedford County Public Schools Special Called School Board Meeting, community voices echoed loudly as board members grappled with a contentious decision regarding student athletics. The meeting, held on December 17, 2020, became a focal point for parents, students, and athletes who rallied behind a petition boasting over a thousand signatures, urging the board to reconsider its stance on sports competitions during the ongoing pandemic.

Mister Johnson, a board member, articulated the community's frustration, emphasizing that students were eager to compete and that their voices should be heard. "Our students want to play, and they want to compete. That's why they train," he stated, highlighting the emotional investment of young athletes who have dedicated themselves to their sports. He pointed out that while some students could travel for competitions, many others faced barriers that prevented them from participating, raising concerns about equity in access to athletic opportunities.

The crux of the meeting revolved around a motion to allow Bedford County sports teams to compete under the Virginia High School League and Seminole District COVID-19 guidelines, without adhering to the CDC's more stringent indicators. Despite the passionate plea from Johnson and the community's backing, the motion ultimately failed, with a vote tally of 4 to 3 against it. The board's decision left many feeling disheartened, as it underscored the ongoing struggle to balance safety with the desire for competition.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board moved to adjourn, but the discussions sparked by this gathering are likely to resonate within the community for some time. The voices of Bedford County's students and their supporters have made it clear: the desire to compete is strong, and the conversation about how to best support these young athletes is far from over.