Stevenson students press board to allow Club America meetings before school, citing unequal application of policy

Addie, president of Stevenson Club America and a student at Stevenson High School, told the board she seeks clarity about “board policy 7 3 3 0” and asked that the club be allowed to meet before school like other student organizations. “Prior to being approved as an equal access club, Club America held meetings before school between 07:45 and 08:15AM,” Addie said, arguing that newer clubs were told they could not meet in the morning while other extracurriculars, tutoring and athletics begin as early as 05:30 a.m.

Addie and subsequent speakers framed the request as a matter of equal access. Student athlete James Satinski said denying morning meetings “reduces equitable access for athletes,” and parent Peggy Bloomer asked the board to audit club schedules to ensure consistent treatment. Randy Gino, a parent, described older children who missed extracurricular opportunities because practices conflicted with club meeting times, and said morning meetings would expand inclusivity for students with demanding after‑school schedules.

Board members noted the relevant language in policy 7 3 3 0 that student clubs are allowed to meet during non‑instructional time, including before school, and staff said some clubs had been ‘‘grandfathered’’ historically. District staff offered follow‑up rather than an immediate policy change: commenters were asked to contact Mr. Gobble and send schedules and names so staff could explore practical options for before‑ or after‑school meetings without causing class absences.

The board did not take formal action on the request during the meeting; staff committed to follow up with the students and report back. Public comment and the board’s request for staff coordination leave the concern unresolved pending administrative review and any future policy or practice changes.