Board approves lacrosse coop and new middle-school swim and cross-country programs

The Milton School District Board on April 14 approved an athletics package that included adding Beloit Memorial High School to the existing lacrosse cooperative with Janesville and establishing or reinstating two middle-school programs.

Jeff, the athletics presenter, said the lacrosse coop with Janesville will continue and that Beloit Memorial would be added; he reported current participation at about six girls and two boys. The board approved the cooperative agreement.

Jeff also presented a middle-school swim program proposal to align with Janesville's middle-school seasons: boys from Oct. 26 to Dec. 11 and girls from Feb. 15 to Apr. 13. Estimated startup and annual costs included coach stipends (in line with middle-school pay), up to 10 bus trips (an estimated $1,500 total), and about $500 for supplies. The HR/finance discussions projected a maximum additional annual expense of roughly $9,000 for both seasons combined. The board moved and approved establishing the swim program.

Finally, the board approved reinstating a middle-school cross-country program to rebuild participation lost during COVID; the expected season would run roughly Sept. 2 through mid-October with an estimated annual cost of about $4,250. Supporters said restoring feeder programming is important for student engagement in non-ball sports.

All three athletics items were moved, seconded and approved during the meeting.