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District warns it pays about $33,000 more than CWAC peers for varsity assistant coaches; board warned to expect debate
Summary
District analysis shows Othello spends roughly $33,000 more on varsity assistant salaries than other schools in the CWAC conference. Administrators flagged the discrepancy and asked the board to consider whether to retain current staffing levels or realign to league norms.
District administrators told the board an athletic staffing review found Othello pays about $33,000 more than comparable schools in the Central Washington Athletic Conference (CWAC) for varsity assistant positions.
The analysis, prepared by the district athletic director, compares the number of varsity assistant positions and their salaries across league peers. Administrators said some sports have safety-driven staffing needs based on roster size, but other assistant positions are "out of alignment" with league norms and have contributed to higher costs.
A board member asked, "Like, we're paying $33,000 more than other schools in the CWAC. Correct?" An administrator replied, "Exactly. And we we may get down to the road where we determine that's worth our investment." The presentation emphasized that no decision was required at the meeting; the board was being alerted so community members and coaches could prepare for possible changes and conversations.
Administrators said future steps include further analysis of safety metrics, participation numbers, and whether the district will keep the current staffing as an investment in programs or align to the conference norm to save funds. Board members were told any future change would likely prompt outreach to coaches, parents and staff before implementation.
