District to pilot sports-officiating course in January to bolster local officiating pool

The Casa Grande Union High School District board heard a proposal to pilot an introductory sports-officiating course aimed at addressing a shortage of officials in youth and middle-school athletics.

Mrs. Clement, the district’s director of curriculum and instruction, proposed launching the pilot in January 2026 with 20 seats at each comprehensive campus and 15 seats at the district’s PACE choice campus. The course uses state-approved modules (an Arizona course code listed as physical education—other), video-based scenario training, supervised live game practice with experienced officials, and preparation for the state licensure exam for sports officials.

“We just want to start with something, see what the interest is, see how it works out,” Mrs. Clement said. The plan suggests offering two sport tracks per semester so students could complete two sports during a semester; the district recommended beginning with baseball and softball for the initial pilot.

Board members and community representatives voiced support and suggested expanding the pilot to other sports such as soccer. One board member noted other states have seen success converting high-school students into long-term officials and said local funding sources—such as existing CTE or pay-in accounts—might cover initial licensing costs.

If the pilot meets community and participation goals, the district plans to explore converting the offering to a CTE local occupational program that could lead to paid work for students and a formal pathway to state certification.

The board expressed support for the concept; the proposal will return for approval as needed when the district finalizes scheduling and funding details.