Board split on adding boys B‑squad volleyball this season; motion to add team fails 3–3

The Anoka‑Hennepin School Board debated whether to add a boys B‑squad volleyball team during its March 24 meeting and ultimately failed to approve the team for this season, with the motion to create the squad receiving a 3–3 tie vote.

Background: Board members voted unanimously (6–0) early in the meeting to add consideration of a B‑squad volleyball team to the agenda so the board could take up the item later in the evening.

Substantive discussion: The debate focused on timing, logistics and cost. Director Arco (who made the on‑table motion to add the agenda item) and several colleagues said there was demonstrable student interest at at least one high school and that earlier administrative planning could likely stretch resources to cover a lower‑cost, single‑season rollout. Board members cited two cost estimates that circulated during discussion: a district staff estimate of up to $20,000 in additional costs for one school and an administrative note of about $100,000 if multiple schools required support. Directors who opposed immediate implementation said the season has already started for spring sports, many schools had already made scheduling and staffing commitments, and some athletic directors had told the district that adding a B‑squad now would be logistically difficult.

Equity and operational concerns: Directors asked whether an uneven rollout (one school offering a B‑squad while others could not) would be fair to students at other high schools. Several board members and the superintendent emphasized that operational constraints — finding coaches, gym time, tournament commitments and uniforms — made a midseason launch challenging. At least one director said a phased approach (starting with varsity and JV, then adding a fresh‑man or B‑squad next year) was the district's previously established path for new sports.

Vote outcome: Coach/Director Arco moved to add a B‑squad volleyball team where feasible; Director Audette seconded. When put to a vote, the motion recorded 3 in favor and 3 opposed and therefore did not pass. The chair announced the motion failed.

What happens next: Superintendent McIntyre told the board administration would support sites that can move quickly and that athletic directors would attempt to accommodate if feasible, but she cautioned that the district had previously planned for varsity and junior varsity rollout and that midseason changes are difficult. Board members said they would revisit the issue if schools request and are able to meet logistical needs.

Ending: The board moved on to other business after the vote. The earlier unanimous vote to add the item to the agenda remains on the meeting record.