Board allocates $27,709 from contingency to preserve Jersey Shore swim team after residents petition

The Jersey Shore Area School District board voted June 22 to transfer $27,709 from contingency funds to continue the high school swim program, following three public pleas that emphasized student opportunity and community value.

Amanda McElroy, who said her son swims for Jersey Shore, told the board that eliminating the program would be “very difficult to bring back” and urged members to preserve the sport for students who find identity and opportunity in the pool. Jesse McElroy, who described district reserve growth and presented figures, said the swim program’s reported cost — $27,709 within a roughly $51 million budget — is a small fraction of district spending and urged the board to seek outside funding sources before cutting the program.

Reverend Charles Winkleman read a letter from his daughter recalling how the swim team shaped her education and urged the board to pursue grants, partnerships and fundraising rather than ending the program.

Board discussion emphasized both the educational value of maintaining the swim team and the need to be fiscally mindful. Administrators outlined operational costs for the pool beyond heating at roughly $50,000 annually (items such as staffing, maintenance and supplies), although precise heating costs tied to the building’s boiler were to be determined. Several board members encouraged community outreach to boost participation and noted interested co-op arrangements with neighboring Central Mountain as a possible cost-sharing approach.

Outcome: After discussion, the board approved the contingency transfer to fund the swim program. Board members asked staff to provide additional detail on pool operating and heating costs and to pursue partner and participation options that could reduce future district expense.