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School board approves first reading of coaches staffing formula after debate over safety and equity
Summary
The Laramie County School District #2 Board approved first reading of proposed policy IGBD, the staffing formula for coaches, after extended debate over minimum coach numbers, safety for outdoor sports and budget impacts.
The Laramie County School District #2 Board of Trustees approved on first reading proposed policy IGBD, the district’s staffing formula for coaches, following extensive discussion of safety, fairness and cost.
The policy, as moved by Board Member Kendra (surname not specified) and seconded by Billy (surname not specified), sets minimum coach staffing and clarifies certification expectations for paid coaches. Board members and athletic staff debated whether fixed minimums or a participant-based formula (for example, one coach per 12 participants) would be fairer and more sustainable.
Board members raised safety concerns for outdoor sports such as football and track, and for wrestling tournaments where athletes and events are spread across multiple locations. Athletic administrators argued the established minimums reflect safety needs and past practice; some trustees urged changes to make staffing more consistent across sports and to reduce the threshold to 10 participants in certain cases.
Trustees also discussed practical constraints: declining enrollment, difficulty recruiting coaches and the budgetary cost of additional stipends, travel and lodging. One trustee proposed prorating stipends by season length to create more coaching positions without increasing overall spending.
The board chair clarified that policy language can be amended before final adoption and that the item will return for further review during the committee-of-the-whole (CAL) process. Trustees agreed staff and athletic directors should continue refining the language and supply cost estimates for adding coaches so the board can consider trade-offs before the second reading.
The motion to approve the policy on first reading carried by voice vote; board members were told the policy remains open to revision through the second reading process.
Board discussion occurred during the policy section of the agenda and included question-and-answer exchanges with district athletic staff and principals.
