Letter from Missouri Valley Community Schools Superintendent

The Missouri Valley Community Schools Superintendent Christi Gochenour sent a letter out regarding Iowa Legislature House File 2591. The following is the letter sent out to the community.

Dear Big Reds Community,

The Iowa Legislature recently enacted House File 2591 (HF2591), which allows 8th grade students to participate in high school athletics under certain circumstances. There are many questions surrounding what this new law means for schools and student- athletes. As we work through the implementation process, we are reviewing the legislation, utilizing guidance from the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) and the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA), and developing local procedures that support our student-athletes while maintaining the integrity of our athletic programs.

While Missouri Valley Community School District will not implement a blanket policy that automatically places all 8th grade students at the high school level, we recognize that there may be situations where participation at the high school level is appropriate. Potential opportunities for 8th grade students to participate in high school athletics will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

School administration will develop procedures and criteria for Board approval at the July Board of Education meeting. While the final process is still being developed, it is expected to include a recommendation from the respective head varsity coach, a review by the Activities Director, and a meeting with the student and their parent(s)/guardian(s) before a final decision is made.

Thank you for your patience as we develop our local procedures. Our goal is to make informed decisions that prioritize student well-being as well as provide appropriate opportunities for all students.

Christi Gochenour

Superintendent