The Hollister School District has announced plans to cut middle
school sports starting in January.
The Hollister School District has announced plans to cut middle school sports starting in January.
The move by the district, which must reduce next year’s budget by $2.5 million to $2.75 million, would save about $26,000 this year and another $56,000 annually after that, said Jack Bachofer, the district’s business director.
Most of the savings would come from coaches’ stipends, he said.
Sports affected this year would include such activities as basketball and track, while other athletics in the fall include such offerings as soccer and volleyball.
“It’s really a crying shame. I wish we didn’t have to do it,” Bachofer said. “Every dollar is being scrutinized by the school fiscal adviser and superintendent.
The Hollister district’s announcement comes on the heels of cuts to San Benito High School athletics, which reduced its budget by $100,000. That prompted the creation of the Baler Backers organization that tries to rally for fundraising toward San Benito athletics.
The business director had not heard of any talk to garner similar outside support for middle school sports. He did note how a parent gave an anonymous donation of $7,000 to ensure there was a crossing guard along Nash Road by Cushman Street.
Regarding the cut to middle school sports, the district sent a letter to parents this week informing them about the plans.
Look back for more on this story.
