Sisters schools may cut all sports programs

A steep budget shortfall and strong parental sentiment have pushed the Sisters School Board into considering cutting all sports programs -- including the reigning state championship 3A football team program.

Over 50 onlookers jammed the budget committee's final meeting last night. The overwhelming majority of those who spoke demanded that the sports budget of $164,000 be sacrificed to retain teachers and ensure smaller classes.

Mike Gould, father of three children echoed the sentiments of many.

"I lettered in 10 sports in high school -- I love sports -- but we moved here for the quality of the schools. No one ever asked me about sports in a job interview. If you miss picking up English skills -- you pay for it forever."

Clearly surprised at the volume and intensity of the comments, the committee of five budget members and five regular board members unanimously approved the budget of $6,749,934 -- and sent it on to the full school board with a strong recommendation that they consider the public will in deciding the issue of sports versus class size.

The next school board meeting is June 12. The board must finally approve the budget by June 30.