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District athletics staff cite higher graduation rates for students in sports, outline partnerships and growth in Unified programs
Summary
Kent SD athletics director told the board that student-athlete graduation rates rose from 84% to 98% in a simple analysis, described partnerships with Kent Parks and Special Olympics funding (~$35,000), and outlined efforts to boost female participation and facilities partnerships.
Brian Smith, Kent School District director of athletics and activities, told the board Tuesday that athletics and extracurricular activities are central to the district’s “Opportunities Plus” approach and said a one‑variable analysis showed students who played sports had a graduation rate increase from 84% to 98%.
Smith described how athletics connects to Career and Technical Education, uses the FMX facilities software for scheduling, and highlighted partnerships with Kent Parks and Covington Parks for field use. He said the district receives about $35,000 from the Special Olympics national office and that unified athletics now include 16 middle schools and a broad program of activities. “When we say opportunities plus, we need kids involved,” Smith told the board.
Board members asked for more rigorous evidence tying sports participation to academic and social‑emotional outcomes. Director Tong requested data that could be used for advocacy or funding; Smith said the district could dig into the data and share findings. Board members also discussed outreach to increase girls’ participation; Smith described the district’s Get in the Game campaign and middle‑school additions such as badminton.
Smith said athletics staff and partners also cover facilities, transportation, coach training and safety, and that the department works with custodial and ASB staff to support events. The board expressed appreciation for the work and encouraged staff to return with formal data if available.
