Elyria School District's financial struggles may impact athletics and extracurriculars

Unidentified student speaking to Fox8 News (WJW) at Elyria school board meeting. (Photo: extraction from B-roll/Fox8 News)

ELYRIA, Ohio -- In a report from Fox8 news (WJW), the Elyria School District may be facing a situation in which its athletics and extracurricular activities may resort to pay-to-participate due to failed levies and $9 million in looming budget cuts. 

During a school board meeting on Wednesday night, school superintendent Ann Schloss said she "understands the financial struggles within the district, but worries about the families that can afford it."

In the meeting, more than 75 students, parents, coaches, and educators shared their opinions on the situation, and all were against the idea of pay-to-participate, according to the report. 

The fees applied would not just be specifically to sports but would extend to robotics club, drama, and band, to name a few.

"My daughter was in track, cross country, marching band, and drama. Even if you're talking only $50 to $100, it's $400, and if you have more than one kid, that really adds up," said Jordan Crouse, president of the Elyria Band Boosters.

They can barely afford instruments and other necessities, she also mentioned.

"Pay-to-participate may work for other districts, but it does not work for a district where many families are economically disadvantaged," said a parent and educator, Gricell Rivera.

As far as the athletic department, before the meeting, the board listened to their presentation and listened intently, and said all would be considered before making a decision with parents.

Numbers could also be affected if they don't have enough participation. "If you don't have enough kids, sometimes the group can't participate at all. You need six kids to run a cross-country race. You don't have that, then nobody gets to do it," said Crouse. 

Crouse finished the meeting by saying, "I'm sure they don't want to do this. There will be a lot of outrage. I'm sure it's a last resort they're looking at, and hopefully they see the community is very against it, and maybe that will help them make that decision," she said. 

During the meeting, the school board approved the $9 million budget reduction plan that will affect dozens of teachers and administrators. 

Watch as the meeting attendees discussed their concerns: