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Novato Unified board approves joining Marin County middle-school athletic league
Summary
The Novato Unified School District board approved an MOU to join the Marin County Middle School Athletic League for 2026–27, a move the district said will provide consistent seasons and more competitive opportunities for middle-school athletes; the district fee for 2026–27 was presented as $27,316.
The Novato Unified School District board voted Jan. 13 to approve a memorandum of understanding to join the Marin County Middle School Athletic League beginning in the 2026–27 school year.
A district presenter described the league as providing more competitive opportunities, consistent schedules and a governing structure for participating middle schools. "By making this relationship official, we are building a stronger foundation for our athletic programs at the middle school level and helping us grow a culture of teamwork and sportsmanship," the presenter said. The district fee for 2026–27 was shown in the packet as $27,316.
The Marin County Office of Education will cover 50% of the fee during the pilot year and district staff said the additional MCOE support is intended to last three years. Trustees asked several clarifying questions about future cost increases and participation; the presenter said the fee could not rise by more than 7% in a year and might go down depending on participating districts.
Trustee (voice 11), who moved approval, framed the measure as a student-retention and opportunity policy: "This is about allowing kids an opportunity to develop something outside of academics that keeps them in school," the trustee said. The motion passed with the board’s recorded affirmation reported as "7 zeros with 2 advisory votes."
