Preston County board approves Preston High School dance club

The Preston County Board of Education approved formation of a Preston High School Dance Club on Oct. 27, 2025.

The board voted 4–0 to allow the club, which sponsors Britney Carpenter and Sarah Gallagher proposed would be a school‑affiliated club sport open to grades 9–12 and run at no cost to the district. Carpenter told the board she and Gallagher hold current West Virginia WSSAC coaching cards and have 13 students who signed initial interest forms.

Administrators said the club will be treated like other non‑sanctioned club sports: school teams will have priority for facilities, and the club must coordinate practice and performance scheduling with school administration and the athletic director. "We are approaching this request similar to, for example, that we have a school‑affiliated lacrosse team — more of a club concept," Mr. Martin said.

Board members asked about potential conflicts with cheer and other spirit activities and whether students could participate in multiple activities. Carpenter said the intent is to be flexible so students involved in other sports can also participate in dance, and she said fundraising would cover uniforms and other costs. "We would fundraise for it," she said, estimating uniform pieces at about $69 each.

The board’s motion specified the club is approved for the 2025–26 academic year with sponsors Mrs. Brittney Carpenter and Sarah Gallagher and that the club should follow school facility and conduct rules. The motion passed following discussion and a formal voice/computer vote recorded as 4–0.

The club’s approval authorizes school administrators and the athletic director to work with the sponsors on scheduling, compliance with WSSAC rules where relevant, and any facility requests; the district emphasized school teams retain priority over space and any compliance questions will be referred to the WSSAC compliance officer.