Athletics director outlines safety training, growth in CTE and youth programs

Mr. Platter, speaking for the athletics department, told the board the department emphasizes compliance and safety training for coaches, including concussion response, heat-illness prevention, CPR and emergency procedures. He said the department uses Rank1 for physicals and consent forms to streamline treatment authorization during events.

Mr. Platter reviewed recent eligibility appeals submitted to OSSA: the department submitted 15 hardship cases this year, most resolved through intermediate appeals; one high-profile appeal that reached the OSSA board was decided by a 7-5 vote and drew local media coverage.

He highlighted program growth: a 162% rise in enrollment in one CTE program (BMITE) and a new half-time VMITE program funded by a state grant (about $15,000 awarded so far and roughly $20,000 expected). The department reported 16 student athletic scholarships earned to date and said some students now pursue JUCO routes due to transfer-portal pressures.

Youth outreach was a focus: the district runs a low-cost RYSA youth sports academy ($50 registration) and uses high-school athletes as volunteer referees and coaches. The athletics office also plans new offerings for 2026—27, including a powerlifting team and the district's first competitive cheer squad to enter OSSA competition.

Mr. Platter said the department will implement summer action plans for head coaches, formal evaluations and monthly junior-high coaches meetings to support continuity across levels.

The board had no substantive follow-up questions after the presentation; the superintendent thanked Mr. Platter for the report.