Better Sports

School Administrator, Dec, 1995

Usually by this time, Ralph Kerr, the superintendent in Arkport, N.Y., has fielded a dozen or more complaints from sports-minded parents about their sons' and daughters' lack of playing time. But not this fall.

Arkport's school board last spring adopted a statement of sports philosophy that described the distinct purposes of varsity, junior varsity, and modified sports programs in the 573-student district. The statement was drafted by a 22-member task force appointed by Kerr, who had become concerned about the growing abuse coaches were receiving from parents.

As part of the new philosophy, every coach holds a pre-season meeting for parents and student participants to discuss expectations for the coming season, team rules, and appropriate roles for parents.

In addition, the task force prescribed the singing of the national anthem prior to varsity and junior varsity basketball games.