ADRIAN — Participation numbers were reviewed Monday and Adrian Public Schools officials said they are pleased with the number of students getting involved with the district’s offerings of fall recreation sports and after-school programming.
The data was shared during the Adrian Board of Education’s meeting by athletic director Chad O’Brien and Superintendent Nate Parker. O’Brien highlighted the statistics for the recreation sports, and Parker looked at the after-school programming numbers.
Enrollment for each of the fall recreation sports available, O’Brien said, ranges from 15 to 60 students. The district offers the following sports to younger students and those not participating in sports governed by the Michigan High School Athletic Association:
The numbers thus far into the school year are solid, O’Brien said. The district and the athletic department have been promoting the recreational offerings at elementary school meetings and through social media.
While some sports generate more interest than others, O’Brien said, each of the sports offered are being utilized by students. Because programs like cheerleading and volleyball are currently underway, fall softball is not quite as well attended, he said. To fill up some roster spots and put an entire team together for softball, students outside of Adrian were welcome to join the recreational team.
While that’s not the case for every sport, O’Brien informed the board, he is considering that option for students who are not enrolled at Adrian. The reasoning behind that is to promote the Adrian district and its many offerings with the hope that the students’ families will choose to relocate their children’s education to Adrian.
With the winter season approaching, insights were provided on winter recreational sports, too. Basketball, wrestling and yoga are the main sports that will be offered thus far. There are considerations for powerlifting and gymnastics, too, O’Brien said.
After-school programming numbers are also a positive for the district, Parker said.
Adrian is working with its fine arts department to host after-school music camps and other music-related ventures, including plays and dramas. The after-school music camp is set to begin next week. It also has a working relationship with the Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee. Parker credited Cody Waters, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Lenawee, for providing after-school programming that is full of energy and enthusiasm. Waters is a 2004 graduate of Adrian High School.
“It’s exciting to see all of the after-school stuff really take off,” Parker said. “The kids are excited, and that’s what we want to see.”
With this being the first year of having such a diverse offering of sports and activities, Parker said he is hoping the district will be able to create an after-school programming calendar that is available to parents and students at the beginning of the school year.
While it may seem like a lot to condense and work into a schedule, Parker said, there can be fluidity with the calendar. It would be optimal for parents to see what is available for their students at the start of the year and get them signed up as soon as possible.
The Adrian Board of Education at its Oct. 10 meeting also:
