Tipton R‑VI approves junior high cheer and a one‑year football co‑op with Bunston

The Tipton R‑VI Board of Education approved two athletics measures aimed at expanding participation: the creation of a junior high cheer program with inclusive startup plans and a one‑year renewable co‑op with Bunston for high‑school football.

Trustees approved junior high cheer after discussing program goals, start‑up costs and inclusivity. Board members favored low‑cost starter uniforms and advised against competitive tryouts at the junior high level so more students can participate. A motion to approve junior high cheer and related weight/conditioning support passed with board members David (mover) and Amanda (second) recorded in the discussion.

On a separate motion, the board approved a one‑year football co‑op with Bunston. Administrators and Coach Duke explained Bunston indicated up to five interested high‑school players and would provide transportation to practices. Trustees discussed classification and enrollment thresholds (concern that added players could affect the district’s athletic class), equipment availability and reconditioning costs, and whether the co‑oping district should share equipment costs. The board approved the co‑op on a year‑to‑year basis and directed staff to clarify equipment, reconditioning and cost‑sharing arrangements with Bunston.

Board members framed both decisions as efforts to increase opportunities for students while protecting district interests on classification and recurring costs. Several trustees said they want patron and stakeholder input before longer‑term commitments are made.

Next steps: the athletic director and coaches will gather costs, confirm transportation details, and return with recommended operating procedures for the new junior high program and the Bunston co‑op’s first year.