Board debates raising GPA for extracurricular eligibility; handbook adoption tabled

Dr. Nowak presented proposed revisions to the district’s extracurricular and activities handbook for 2026–27, including removing language that limited coverage to grades 7–12 so the policy would apply to all grades, clarified GPA standards by level, pre‑participation meeting requirements, and stiffer leadership penalties for certain violations.

Board members focused much of the discussion on the handbook’s minimum GPA standard. Several members argued that extracurricular participation is a privilege and should reflect higher academic expectations; one board member said "anything less than a 2 should not be in any of our documents." Others warned that raising the threshold could unintentionally push some students away from activities that help keep them engaged in school and advocated for case‑by‑case waivers, progress check‑ins, or a phased implementation.

Dr. Nowak and other administrators recommended a phased approach if the board wishes to raise the minimum: make the change effective midyear (third quarter) or start of the next school year, build in study‑tables and weekly progress reporting, and give staff and families time to prepare. Administrators noted existing reporting and ineligibility processes for athletics could be extended to other activities.

Because the proposed change affects students mid‑term if adopted immediately, the board moved to lay item 8b (adoption of the extracurricular handbook) on the table for further revision and to return on May 11 with edited language and timing options. The motion to table passed by roll call.