Jennings County board declines to elevate JCHS boys volleyball to varsity after 3–3 tie

The Jennings County School Corporation board voted to keep boys volleyball at Jennings County High School as a club sport after a 3–3 tie on a motion to adopt it as an Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) varsity program. Athletic director Mr. Hartwell presented the proposal, describing rising interest statewide and local demand from at least 12 students who want to play.

Administrators told the board the program would run a full schedule if sanctioned and would require coaching stipends (a $5,700 head coach stipend and a $3,800 assistant stipend were cited). "Kids want to do this," Mr. Hartwell said while outlining a plan for a 22‑event schedule and fundraising to cover officials, equipment and uniforms.

Several board members questioned whether it was the right year to add a paid varsity program given budget pressures. One board member said the timing was "just tough" because the district had not given raises to employees and expressed concern about the message of adding stipends now; another suggested waiting until next year to reassess turnout. A different board member argued the total additional cost (reported by administration as $9,625) was modest relative to the benefit of providing opportunities to dedicated students.

The motion to adopt boys volleyball as an IHSAA sport was made by Kirk and seconded; the board recorded three votes in favor and three opposed, which, under Robert's Rules as the board follows them, failed because a majority is required to pass. As a result, boys volleyball remains a club sport for the coming season.

Next steps noted by administration included conducting a district call‑out to determine final roster size and returning to the board with updated participation numbers and a financial update if interest grows.

The presentation and vote occurred during the board's regular meeting; no additional immediate funding action was authorized.