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Board approves extracurricular and co-curricular program evaluation, cites high participation and new supports
Summary
The school board approved the district's extracurricular/co-curricular program evaluation (6-0). Presenters cited 1,056 roster entries, conference and state-level achievements, plans for social-emotional supports and inclusion of homeschooled students under state law.
The Excelsior Springs School Board voted unanimously to approve the district's extracurricular and co-curricular program evaluation after a presentation by activities director Justin Baker (presented as "Mister Baker" in the meeting).
Why this matters: The district reported robust student participation in activities and outlined steps to support student well-being, coach professional development and inclusion of new participants allowed by recent state law.
Baker told the board the activities program recorded 1,056 roster entries across its programs and highlighted conference championships in tennis, speech and debate, boys soccer and several state qualifiers in music and athletics. He said those 1,056 roster entries represent all participation counts on team rosters and that many individual students participate in multiple activities.
The presentation noted concerns about early specialization and the demand on students who do multiple activities. Baker said the district will continue monitoring participation numbers and may recommend staffing adjustments if participation trends require them.
Board members asked how the district promotes multi-sport and multi-activity participation. Baker said the district is working to expand exposure and awareness through outreach and partnerships with youth programs and that he serves as the district liaison with local parks and recreation.
The program will incorporate the "Inside Out" initiative (a social-emotional curriculum referenced by the presenter) during its first year to strengthen coaching and sponsor support for student well-being.
The presentation also noted Senate Bill 63 changes that allow homeschooled and certain virtual students to participate in activities; Baker reported seven homeschool students were already participating after the law took effect.
Action: The board voted 6-0 to approve the extracurricular and co-curricular program evaluation "as presented."
