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Board leans against allowing sixth graders to play up; Athletic Council to return with recommendation
Summary
Following Mn. State High School League bylaw updates, the board discussed rules for students playing up and expressed reluctance to permit sixth graders in junior high programs; Athletic Director Boran and the Athletic Council were asked to report back with recommendations and policy options.
Athletic Director Boran briefed trustees on Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) bylaw changes that expand governance for ninth‑grade programs and clarify transfer and eligibility rules. The minutes summarize that "students in grades 7–12 can play at a higher level, including varsity, if selected," but that promotions require permissions, demonstrated skill, physical readiness, benefit to the program, timing before the fourth Monday of the season, and higher participation fees.
Boran asked for direction on whether sixth graders could participate in junior high activities given local roster shortfalls. Board Chair Gary Michael and trustees said they would support Athletic Director Boran's decisions but expressed concern about mental and physical development at that age. "Michael's recommendation would be not to allow the practice," the minutes record. The board asked the Athletic Council (with Schneider and Tolzman as representatives) to work with Boran and return with recommendations and any policy language to the board.
