A request to consider naming Beloit Memorial High School stadium after longtime coach John Heineke was presented by retiree Terry McCann at the Dec. 2 board meeting. McCann summarized Heineke’s coaching record, honors and service to the district and suggested the name "Jacobson Field at the John Heineke Stadium" as an option that would also honor prior coach Jacobson.

Board members discussed the process under Board Policy 950 Rule 1, which requires a written request and allows the board to appoint a special committee to review naming suggestions and make recommendations to the business operations and finance committee. Amy Levy moved to form the naming committee; Tom Hankins seconded. Several board members urged outreach to the Jacobson family and broader community participation; Hankins volunteered that his committee would work with administration on next steps.

The motion to form a naming committee passed unanimously. The committee will follow policy to recommend whether to accept or reject the naming suggestion and to specify committee membership as required by policy.