Eighth Graders in HS Sports Talked About in Board Meeting

The June meeting of the Malta School District was held on the 7th of June, following is an abbreviated conclusion of the meeting.

The meeting was well attended, with teachers, coaches, public, parents and interested school board members from the North Colony.

Carter Clausen and Angel DeVries had attended the workshop put on by the Montana State University held at the auditorium. Angel DeVries gave a thumbnail description of the meeting and what was addressed.

Principal Shawn Bleth went over some of the changes in the student handbook; there was discussion on students (juniors and seniors) transferring in and being able to swap equivalent classes to meet MHS graduation requirements.

He also explained the new classes that will be offered this year and some changes in class assignments. Mrs. Stacie Simanton will teach Media/Film Production and Mrs. Rawnie Crasco will be teaching College Writing Prep, which is preparing the students on proper writing methods for college bound students. Miss Mikayla Huber will teach biology, Ecology/Zoology, General Science and 7th Grade STEM.

Desiree Egger, AD, went over the list of coaching staff still needed for the school year 23-24.

Egger also led discussion on the possibility of moving eighth grade students up to compete at high school level for sports. Many Class B schools are facing this dilemma at this time, as is Malta, with shortages in certain grade/levels to fill rosters.

She stated that many of the games this past year were canceled as the other schools could not fill a JV or freshman squad. She said she had visited with Mr. Costin and "he was in favor of it," and Nate Hammond said, "..well if everybody is doing it, let's do it."

The pros and cons of the action are both long, and both sides have valid concerns. The biggest concern and consideration is whether a student is ready mentally and physically.

New-to-the-board, Angel DeVries said, "Catch me up on the ultimate goal of eighth graders participating in high school sports."

Junior High wrestling coach, Steve French, addressed the group and answered the question: "I've been coaching for a long time, I am ancient!" He went on to explain "everybody is doing it; Glasgow High School had three light weight wrestlers who scored almost as many points as our two seniors...it's hard to compete with a school that has filled a team roster."

He added, "...there are several reasons for doing so ~ in dealing with the pressure of the Metra, one more year of experience/exposure is incredible! North Dakota and South Dakota have been doing it for years and haven't gone back." They match the kids according to weight and skill.

Dusty Squires, assistant coach for Little Guy/AAU wrestling added, "...if others are doing it and we don't offer it for kids, the kids are going to leave."

Mr. Bleth said "It is a million dollar question...contrary; I am not against 8th grade participation, I have concerns; I want to visit with the coaches about the concerns before the board approves it...there is a pit fall. The only thing worse than no policy at all is a bad policy."

It was the general consensus that Mr. Bleth would visit with administration and coaches to come together and vote on it as each might have a different perspective,

Jake Stuart added that; "It needs to be done the best way, we can't think of everything...be cautious and trust the coaches."

Anita Green inquired, "Can they cut below the roster number so they can bring 8th graders up?" It was stated if there was a willing participant they would be on the team before 8th graders. Mr. Bleth compared the 12-year-old vs 18-year-old mentality and the high pressure moments and putting pressure on them; we need to have the right intentions and the right goals.

Julie McFaden inquired, "Will the high school students even want to try out if they feel their spot is being taken away?" Bleth responded, "That is a real concern that creates a threshold of questions."

Moving on, Chairman Clausen announced the following committee assignments: Katey Marquis and Jessica Oyler – personnel & curriculum; Scott Meneely and Angel DeVries – building; Scott Meneely and Carter Clausen – transportation; and Carter Clausen and Angel DeVries – finance.

District Clerk Jane Knudsen provided information on the individual who had applied for Kelly McCann's position and that he was asking for a higher wage.

Under the line item for discussion, she presented the claims for fees for various memberships, which came to $188,732. There is a need for new chrome books, 125 were purchased last year at $250 each. Property taxes are due in the amount of $142,000.

She also reported on several claims and whether the funds would come from the 2022-23 budget or the 2023-24 budget. She is holding one check for payment as it was coming from the building fund and the company had failed to return to complete the job.

Supt. Matt Genger, looking at his watch, as a point in time said, "I am outta here in 15 minutes!" He did take time to address the transportation matters and contracts. It was voted to continue the agreements with Turner and Whitewater students living in the district. He also thanked Malta for the opportunities to work with them and supporting him.

Chairman Clausen stated that the personnel committee and the classified negotiating committee had reached an agreement of a twenty-five cent an hour raise and this was confirmed by Anita Green of the negotiating team.

The next topic on the agenda was the bus route and possible changes. The board met the following evening to address those issues.

Eli Hofer of the North Colony spoke before the board and those in attendance and discussion followed on the new law directing the money to follow the child. It was unclear where matters legally stood so the matter was tabled until clarification is made. Mr. Hofer said, "We will work together, and do what is best for the kids."

Reporter's note: The meeting closed shortly before 10 and though not intentional, there may be some items that will need clarification; thank you for your understanding.