Dillard Middle School reviews $25K athletic budget for sports expenditures

The Caswell County Schools Board of Education held a regular meeting on July 15, 2025, focusing on the financial reports for athletics at Dillard Middle School and the high school. The meeting began with a review of the athletic expenditure reports, highlighting the differences in format between the two schools.

The discussion emphasized the rising costs associated with athletics, including transportation and officiating fees, which have strained the budget. The board noted that Dillard Middle School's expenditures were broken down by sport and month, providing a detailed view of spending. A clarification was made regarding a basketball booking fee, which was found to include payments to officials, not just the booking itself.

The board reported that the total allocated athletic supplement from the county was $25,000, with expenditures amounting to $24,910.03, indicating effective use of taxpayer dollars. However, concerns were raised about the overall financial health of the athletic programs, with a noted deficit of $32,000. This deficit was attributed to the nature of certain sports that do not generate sufficient revenue, such as track and wrestling.

The conversation also touched on the need for better community support and attendance at games, particularly for revenue-generating sports like football and basketball. The board discussed the importance of engaging families and students to increase attendance, as well as exploring new fundraising strategies, including the potential for debit card payments at concession stands.

Additionally, the board addressed the issue of transportation costs, particularly the practice of paying coaches to drive buses. There was a debate over whether coaches should be compensated for driving, with some members advocating for fair compensation due to the responsibilities involved in safely transporting students.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency in financial reporting and a focus on improving the sustainability of athletic programs. The board plans to continue exploring options to enhance revenue while ensuring a positive experience for students and families involved in Caswell County Schools athletics.