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Board approves stipends for middle-school swim and unified basketball programs
Summary
RSU 5 approved creation and funding mechanisms for two new stipends: a middle school swim stipend (cost listed at $2,228) and a middle school unified basketball stipend funded through an existing grant; board discussed access, participation, and whether to subsidize community-ed options for broader access.
The RSU 5 board approved two new stipends June 3 following stipend-committee recommendations.
The board voted to create a middle school swim stipend (stipend amount noted in the packet as $2,228) after committee members explained more than 30'50 middle-school students expressed interest and that a school-run program reduces cost barriers and offers transportation and oversight. Board members debated whether the program would primarily serve competitive swimmers or be structured for broader participation; administrators said middle-school sports typically allow broader participation than high school varsity competition.
The board also approved a middle-school unified basketball stipend that will be paid from a grant the district has already secured. Creating the stipend allows the district to legally and transparently pay coaches out of grant funds. Members discussed equity, access and the potential for the district to underwrite community-ed lessons for students who need basic instruction before joining school teams.
Both motions passed on voice votes with no recorded opposition. Administrators said funding for the swim stipend is included in next year's draft budget and that stipend positions will enable recruiting and scheduling for next year's seasons.
