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Rock Ridge board reinstates varsity assistant coaches amid Title IX and transportation concerns
Summary
The Rock Ridge Public Schools board voted unanimously to reinstate previously cut varsity assistant coaches after the activities committee recommended restoration to address participation levels, Title IX parity and supervision/transportation gaps; administrators warned of a larger spring budget impact.
The Rock Ridge Public Schools board voted unanimously to reinstate varsity assistant coaches that had been cut earlier, after the activities committee and the district athletic director told the full board that rising participation and travel logistics left teams understaffed.
The decision came after public comment from a community member and detailed staff testimony about roster sizes. "With 2 coaches, we can't do that," Athletic Director Josh Lempa said, describing last spring when varsity, JV and junior-high teams were competing at separate sites and one paid coach could not cover concurrent events. Visitor Matt Schoberg told the board the boys golf program had 52 athletes and hosted eight meets, and warned that volunteers cannot drive students to away events.
Board members framed the issue as one of safety, equity and program continuity. Several directors cited Title IX obligations and the practical need for adults to supervise multiple teams when schedules conflict. Administration cautioned about longer-term costs: the superintendent said reinstating the full package could increase ongoing costs and "if you do the whole package deal, it's gonna be a $120,000" because the expense can roll into subsequent years.
The board's motion to bring back assistants followed the athletic committee's recommendation that restorations be handled consistently across sports rather than case-by-case; the motion, made by Director Eulan and supported by Director Reardon on the record, passed without dissent.
District staff said positions will be posted consistent with hiring practices (head coaches typically recommend assistants, background checks and posting requirements still apply) and that reinstatement could require a budget revisit in the spring if additional funds are needed. Administration also noted continuing operational constraints such as a shortage of bus drivers and limits on volunteer roles for transporting students.
Next steps: the administration will post/advertise assistant positions as required and return to the board with any necessary budget implications in a future meeting.
