Athletic director outlines participation gains, mental-health plan and facilities needs

Athletic Director Tara Rose presented the Saint Croix Falls School District athletic department's program goals and current initiatives during the committee portion of the April 8 board meeting. "We develop high-character individuals, prepare students for life beyond school, and provide meaningful experiences," Rose said, and she reported that 61% of high school students and 73% of middle school students are involved in athletics.

Rose outlined new operational steps including a transition to the Bound scheduling platform, which staff described as more user-friendly and capable of digital ticketing, and a new mental-health emergency action plan intended for coaches and trainers. She identified facility priorities for future work: the high school locker rooms, the athletic training room, and improvements to the soccer and junior varsity baseball/softball fields.

Board members asked clarifying questions during the presentation and the update set the stage for later policy review and budget planning. The presentation did not include a final funding commitment; the board and administration indicated follow-up will occur as part of routine budget and capital-planning processes.