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Local advocate argues Title IX requires access, not equal participation, urges District 211 to consider boys’ sports participation
Summary
Lee Bennett, a local volleyball advocate, told the board that Title IX guarantees equal access but does not mandate equal participation, urged the district to consider boys’ participation rates and suggested investments in men’s programs to address participation imbalances.
Lee Bennett, speaking during the public-comment portion of Township HSD 211’s recognition evening, urged the district to consider how growth in girls’ sports participation relates to boys’ opportunities and said Title IX requires equal access but not equal participation.
"Title IX sets the standard for equal access. It does not require equal participation," Bennett said, summarizing his view that district offerings should allow students to choose activities that suit them. He argued that while girls' participation rose over several decades, participation rates for both sexes have dipped slightly in the past 10 years and that the district should consider investing in men’s sports where appropriate.
Bennett referenced national and historical participation rates and the Paris Olympics as context for thinking about balance in sports offerings. He framed the issue as one of providing options for all students rather than reducing opportunities for one group to achieve parity for another. Bennett urged continued advocacy for both girls and boys to have meaningful sports opportunities in the schools.
The board took no formal action during the evening; Bennett’s remarks were entered as public comment. The transcript shows no rebuttal from district staff during the streamed session.
