Stanton County USD 452 to play independent 8‑man football next year; board approves transition plan

Board President Lettie Nickell presided over a Nov. 13, 2024 meeting in Johnson, Kan., where the Stanton County Unified School District No. 452 Board of Education voted to pursue an independent eight‑man football season in 2025–26 and then apply to the Kansas State High School Activities Association to change to sanctioned 8‑man play the following year.

Coach Josh Allen told the board participation numbers have fallen and recommended the district play independently next season before formally converting to 8‑man under KSHSAA rules. After discussion, Board Member Bret Kendrick moved to go 8‑man independent for 2025–26 and to pursue a sanctioned change with KSHSAA subsequently; Val Zumudio seconded and the motion carried 7-0.

The board’s action means the football program will not remain in 11‑man competition beyond its existing KSHSAA commitment, subject to the district’s scheduling and KSHSAA approval timelines. The board did not specify exact roster or scheduling details in the public minutes; Superintendent Trenton Horn and athletic staff are responsible for next steps and for coordinating with KSHSAA about the timing and formal application process.

The decision follows a discussion about student participation and program quality rather than a recorded vote tied to a particular budget expenditure. The board’s motion and unanimous vote were recorded in the meeting minutes; the district will implement the independent schedule for 2025–26 and then pursue the sanctioned 8‑man classification.

The board moved on to other agenda items after the vote; no additional conditions or budget allocations were recorded in the minutes for the football change.