When the Oxford School Board announced its budget reduction plans in April, its proposed strategy to cut various athletic programs ? such as boys and girls golf ? and extracurricular clubs at the high school and middle school levels drew tons of criticism from the public.
After many meetings with a committee of concerned parents, students and coaches, a strategy was finally developed to save these programs from the chopping block.
It was officially announced at the June 14 school board meeting that the following clubs and athletic programs would be reinstated in the fall at both the high school and middle school levels ? Boys Varsity and JV Golf, Girls Varsity Golf, Middle School Cross Country, the high school Environmental Club, Math Club, Equestrian Club, SADD, Spanish Club, Writer’s Club, the Academic Team, the middle school newspaper, Spanish Club, STAND Club, Art Club, Science Club and the Computer Club.
Superintendent Virginia Brennan-Kyro was thankful for the committee’s efforts and ‘very happy? to be able to keep these athletic programs and clubs active.
The agreed upon strategy is to charge students to participate in these activities. A one-time student club fee of $15 will be charged to high school students and a $10 fee for middle schoolers. Medical/sports fees will also increase from $110 to $130 per athlete.
Brennan-Kyro said parents and students agreed to pay more money rather than have the activities eliminated.
Other adjustments would be to contract with non-employee coaches for their services.
‘This wouldn’t change the amount the coach will receive for their services, but will save the district in other areas,? said Brennan-Kyro.
Currently, coaches who are employed outside the district are still considered school employees.
Brennan-Kyro said contracting for their services would save the district money in terms of Social Security and other retirement contributions.
Adjustments to the National Honors Society and Student Council will also be made. Instead of paying the sponsor, which is usually a teacher, a stipened amount to run the club after school, they would meet during the teacher’s normal class time, thereby saving money.
In another money-saving move, Quiz Bowl will be cut from two seasons of competition to one.
Brennan-Kyro said clubs and athletics would also be encouraged to do their own fund-raising to help lower the fees even more.
Oxford High School principal Mike Schweig noted the district is looking at conducting the OHS Disc Golf Club through Oxford Township Parks and Recreation.