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Board approves naming of middle‑school gym court for late coach Ethan Doherty
Summary
The board approved a motion to name the Siuslaw Middle School main gymnasium court “Doherty Court” (or “Ethan Doherty Court”) in honor of longtime teacher and coach Ethan Doherty after a petition from students and staff.
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The Siuslaw School District board voted Dec. 11 to name the middle‑school main gymnasium court in honor of the late teacher and coach Ethan Doherty. A student and staff petition was presented by a middle‑school representative, who asked that the space be called the “Ethan Doherty Court.” The board agreed the request met policy criteria for naming a portion of a facility and approved moving forward without establishing a separate naming committee for this single‑area dedication.
“His coaching style extended far beyond teaching basketball fundamentals,” the presenter said, urging the board to approve a naming that would recognize Doherty’s decades-long service. Superintendent Chris Goyak recommended board approval, and Director Haverly moved the resolution to name the court; Director Cole seconded. The chair asked administration to consult the family regarding the exact nomenclature — Doherty Court or Ethan Doherty Court — and facilities staff will arrange appropriate signage or floor painting.
Why it matters: Naming a facility after a local educator is a formal, symbolic recognition of long service and community impact. The board treated the proposal as an application of existing naming policy (FF) and expedited action because the request concerns a portion of a facility rather than an entire building.

