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Board opts not to add optional hockey‑sharing clause to policy 2431 after debate on fairness
Summary
During a first reading of revised board policies, members debated a statutory option to allow students from districts without hockey to play for another district; the board indicated it will not include the optional hockey-sharing provision in policy 2431.
At the board’s Sept. 29 meeting, members conducted a first reading of policy 2431 (athletics) and debated whether to insert an optional statutory provision that would allow a student from a district that does not offer hockey to play for a district that does.
The chair explained the new statute provides that possibility but noted it is optional, not mandatory. Board members raised concerns about the practical effects of admitting out‑of‑district players when Orange already projects a full roster. One member said the board’s ‘‘duty first is to our students and our taxpayers,’’ arguing that allowing students from other public districts could reduce playing time for in‑district students and shift costs and resources. Other concerns included discipline and eligibility questions for non‑district players.
Board discussion noted the district’s hockey roster is projected at about 16 players this year and that the statute pertains only to hockey at present. After discussion the chair said the approval on Oct. 13 will not include the statutory hockey exception.
The item was a first reading; the board will vote on the set of policy changes at its next regular meeting.
