Benton Harbor board says it will appeal proposed removal from Lakeland Athletic Conference

The Benton Harbor Area Schools board discussed an unexpected notice that the district had been proposed for removal from the Lakeland Athletic Conference and said district leaders have submitted an appeal.

Superintendent Dr Buts said the proposal to remove the district stemmed from concerns about the number of sports offered and low participation at sub‑varsity levels. He told the board the conference’s proposal appeared to be based on participation counts and that the district is preparing data and documentation to show compliance and recent investments in athletics, including recent gym floors and planned track work.

Director Jennings, who has been working with the district’s athletic staff, joined Dr Buts in describing the district’s plan to demonstrate improvements in participation and program offerings. “We’re doing the appeal to make sure it’s equitable across the board,” Director Jennings said, urging the board to allow the appeal process to run its course while the district compiles evidence.

Several trustees said they learned of the conference news through the press and expressed frustration with the timing and handling by conference officials and local media. Trustee Rocket Martin said the notification and public reporting felt disrespectful and requested that the board’s attorney be involved: “This is disrespectful and inappropriate; I urge our attorneys be called immediately to the table,” he said.

Trustee Gavin asked for the underlying numbers and formal notice that led to the proposal and sought clarity about what removal would practically mean for schedules and championships. Board members were told that, if a conference vote to drop the district is finalized, Benton Harbor teams could still schedule games with conference opponents but would not be eligible for conference championships or other conference‑level recognition.

Board President Robinson said the district will pursue the appeal process and promised updates: the district filed an appeal citing lack of due process, communication gaps and possible shortcomings in how the conference followed its bylaws. The superintendent and athletic leadership said they will return to the board with the raw data, a timeline for the appeal, and any recommended legal steps.

The board did not take a formal vote at the meeting on next steps beyond authorizing staff to pursue the appeal and to provide follow‑up information to trustees. The discussion closed with trustees emphasizing protection of participation opportunities for student‑athletes and the need for transparent, documented notice if conference action proceeds.