Central parents say new multimillion-dollar fieldhouse lacks weight equipment and transportation for athletes

Several Central High School parents urged the Little Rock School District Board on May 15 to provide weight-room equipment and reliable transportation for student athletes using the district’s newly completed fieldhouse.

Misty Outlaw, who identified herself as a Central alum and parent, told the board: “We have a multimillion dollar facility that was recently built… but it is not able to be used to its full potential at this point because we do not have equipment to use.” Outlaw said the lack of equipment and lingering use of an older basement facility had created health and safety concerns, including past sanitation problems there.

Courtney Emerson, booster-club president and parent, said the booster organization and coaches had been forced to provide water, snacks and other support while encountering “brick walls” when they requested help. “I am begging at this point. Leave the lights on. Let these kids do what they're doing,” Emerson said, urging the district not to disconnect utilities or otherwise cut access while solutions are worked out.

Why it matters: Parents said the problem affects nearly every sport — football, basketball, wrestling and swimming — and estimated the school has nearly 500 athletes who need the facility. Parents warned that losing summer access or turning off utilities could interrupt training and harm retention of student athletes.

Board response and follow-up: Superintendent Wright and district staff acknowledged the concerns and said staff would investigate procurement and fundraising records for equipment and check on transportation arrangements. Multiple board members urged staff to report back with a timeline and explanation of responsibilities — including whether booster funds or activity accounts had been used and whether remaining orders had been placed.