The Morton Community Unit School District 709 Board of Education discussed revisions to Policy 740 on Sept. 2 to clarify eligibility rules for nonpublic students (parochial and homeschooled) who wish to participate in district extracurricular and interscholastic activities.

District staff presented proposed language that splits nonpublic participation into two categories: (1) interscholastic athletics and activities requiring auditions or tryouts, and (2) extracurricular activities and clubs. For athletics and tryout-based programs, the proposed conditions are that a nonpublic participant must (a) adhere to all district policies and association regulations (for example, IESA for junior high, IHSA for high school), (b) attend a district school or be enrolled in four credit-bearing courses with the district, and (c) meet other applicable eligibility rules. For non-athletic extracurricular activities, staff proposed that a nonpublic participant must attend a district school and be enrolled in at least one credit-bearing class.

Board members said the changes are intended to be inclusive while protecting the integrity of representing the district (wearing the "M" on uniforms) and ensuring fairness to students who attend the district for the majority of the school day. Several members noted other area districts use a four-credit standard for athletic eligibility and that the proposed language aligns with standard practice. The item was discussed for clarification and will return to the board for formal action in a subsequent meeting.

The proposed policy change is intended to clearly distinguish between students who represent the district in competitive athletics and those participating in other extracurricular activities where less course enrollment can be required.