Board tables draft booster‑club policy amid concerns over membership, finances and oversight

The board’s legislative and policy committee reviewed a new Policy 919 to govern booster clubs and parent organizations and sent the draft back for further work after an extended discussion about membership rules, financial oversight and safeguards against conflicts or misuse.

Committee members identified multiple areas needing clarification. One questioner noted language appearing to exclude certain groups and the committee chair clarified the intent: "No students would be allowed" to be members of booster clubs, which are parent‑led organizations. Members also pressed for clearer definitions of eligibility (for example whether membership should be limited to parents of current participants) and for financial controls, with suggestions ranging from annual audited statements to quarterly reporting to the district business office.

Several directors raised concerns about equity — that boosters’ fundraising could advantage some activities over others — and about boosters hiring outside vendors or paying volunteers, which could create supervision and vetting risks. A former district official advising the committee outlined common practice in other systems, noting boosters typically maintain their own bank accounts and file independent tax returns, and often submit an annual financial report to the district; but he said monthly audits by the district are rare and could reduce volunteer participation.

Committee members proposed adding specific expectations in the administrative regulation (bylaws, financial reporting cadence, transparency requirements, restrictions on uniforms or official playing apparel, and vetting for staff hired/funded by boosters). After discussion the committee agreed to pull Policy 919 back and incorporate guardrails and clearer administrative regulation language before returning the draft for committee review.