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Debate over booster‑club oversight and parent volunteers erupts; public raises concerns about crew program governance
Summary
Board debate over a new booster‑club policy and a proposed restriction on parent participation in tryouts drew sustained discussion; public comment alleged the district lacks oversight of a crew team operating with equipment on district property and urged the board to act.
The legislative and policy committee reviewed a proposed Policy 919 and Regulation 919A governing booster clubs and parent organizations, and revisited Policy 917 about volunteers and parent participation in tryouts during the Jan. 12, 2026 working session.
Policy 919/919A would set expectations for booster clubs (officers, bylaws, budgets, use of school facilities, administrative liaison and distribution of assets when a group dissolves), prohibit members from receiving financial benefit except limited gifts, and require volunteer members supporting students to follow the district volunteer policy. Committee members said the regulation will need operational guidance and noted it may require an implementing regulation.
Policy 917 on volunteers and parent coaches prompted extended debate. Some board members argued for a broad prohibition on parent volunteers participating in tryouts to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest; others urged narrowly written exceptions where volunteer expertise is necessary but said family members who are volunteers should not evaluate their own student. The committee agreed to revise the policy language and return it to committee for further work.
During public comment, Colleen Blute, a long‑time cheer coach, and other community members urged stronger oversight of parent organizations and volunteer activities. Blute said a crew/rowing club had operated with district equipment and trailers on campus without an approved faculty advisor and without clear bylaws or financial transparency, and urged the board to intervene. "This is a mess," she said, describing parents operating a private organization that used school resources and asking the district to ensure students are not disadvantaged by lack of oversight.
Committee members acknowledged the concerns and said they would continue work on the policy language and implementation details before returning it to the board.
