Board declines lacrosse co-op after divided debate; parents and students urged approval

The Annandale Public School District board heard emotional public comment and split sharply over a proposed boys and girls lacrosse co-op with nearby Becker before voting the proposal down.

Kim Watson, parent of AHS sophomore Ethan Watson, urged the board to allow a trial season with a contingency to discontinue if adverse impacts occur, saying families and students are excited for the opportunity. "They are just asking all of you to open the door and give it a chance," Watson said.

Student Grey Frederickson spoke next, describing how joining a co-op would let them meet new teammates and restart their playing experience: "This co-op would mean a lot to me because I'm not just starting new like last time." Both speakers asked the board to approve the co-op so interested students could play.

Board members discussed the proposal at length. Several members said they felt torn between supporting student opportunity and concerns about timing, district finances and optics while an operating levy and teacher negotiations are underway. One board member who moved the motion acknowledged potential criticism but said, "I will take all of the blame, but I would make a motion to approve boys and girls lacrosse." Melissa made the motion and Gina seconded.

The recorded vote showed two in favor (Melissa and Gina) and five opposed (Jen, Dylan, Jean, Jenna and the presiding member), causing the motion to fail. The board did not adopt a contingency or phased approval at the meeting.

The discussion included references to athletic director Jared and committee input; several board members said they had consulted the activities committee and community members before voting.