Bemidji highlights rising participation and fundraising in school activities

The Bemidji Public School District presented a spotlight on high‑school and middle‑school activities at the June 16 meeting, reporting increased participation in many programs and significant fundraising support for student activities.

Christy McCray, who presented the activities report, noted state qualifiers and individual athletic successes, including a seventh‑place state finish in discus by senior Colton Meyer, and multiple qualifiers in track and field and golf. The district’s middle‑school participation numbers were higher than the prior fall and spring cycles, and several non‑athletic activities (knowledge bowl, robotics, math league, speech, vocal groups) reported robust participation.

McCray also summarized high‑school activity finances: participation‑fee revenue rose slightly; gate receipts were down, which she attributed to fewer home wrestling and volleyball matches and fewer swimming meets. She highlighted community fundraising: Security State Bank’s Lumberjack Scramble and a First National Bank event raised that program about $88,973 this year (Security State Bank’s event has raised over $1 million cumulatively). Those proceeds support the Lumberjack Foundation, which offsets costs for equipment and uniforms.

McCray praised coaches, advisors and staff and emphasized the district’s focus on the educational value of activities, saying Bemidji Public Schools "truly does have something to offer for everyone" and that activities teach leadership and life skills beyond wins and losses.

Ending

The board thanked McCray and staff for the presentation and recognition of spring participants; the district also noted an ongoing national debate tournament participant and upcoming summer programs.