Board raises athletics safety and neighborhood-transportation concerns; superintendent proposes advocacy and outreach

Board members raised concerns about student-safety and the travel burdens of away athletic events. They asked whether scheduling and opponent selection could reduce long-distance travel and boost community attendance at games.

The superintendent acknowledged the concerns and described outreach to partners — including a government-relations representative and city bureaus — to coordinate on Safe Routes, sidewalks, lighting and transit issues that affect student access to school and to athletic venues. She said she is arranging meetings with city and county representatives and noted existing contacts with council staff for monthly briefings.

Board members suggested local scheduling adjustments so more community members can attend and to reduce travel to distant schools where incidents have occurred. The superintendent said athletic director Ryan Gallagher and staff are involved in schedule planning and that the district will continue to pursue solutions including more local scheduling where practicable.

Separately, a board member asked about local street improvements near schools (sidewalks, lighting and crosswalks). The superintendent said the district works with the city Bureau of Transportation and county partners and will invite bureau representatives to brief the board on Safe Routes to School and any planned projects.

Ending: The superintendent recommended a future work session or invitation to city/county transportation staff and to the athletic director to develop concrete next steps; no formal policy or scheduling action was taken at this meeting.