CENTERBURG — A coaches handbook draft was introduced by Centerburg’s Board of Education on Monday.

Centerburg superintendent Ryan Gallwitz said the handbook was created to strengthen the athletic experience the school’s student athletes.

Also was created to guide/share expectations for our coaches — such as how to communicate with kids and parents, behavior, fundraising.

“It will get everyone on the same page, working towards the same goals,” Gallwitz said.

According to the drafted handbook, it’s to assist in guiding coaches, growing student athletes’ character, social and leadership skills by creating a “positive experience and empowering them with opportunities for physical and mental development in a competitive environment.” 

Under the sportsmanship section, coaches should always set a good example for participants and fans. Also showcase sportsmanship, respect for officials, opposing participants and coaches. 

Coaches should avoid, according to the drafted handbook, profanity, sarcasm and demeaning language, ejection from contest, berating officials or players and inciting spectators/players to inappropriate behavior.

Gallwitz said the handbook is expected to be approved at August’s board meeting. 

Rich Porter hired as AD

Athletic Director Rich Porter has worked on the handbook throughout the summer, he said at Monday’s board meeting.

Porter said he spent a lot of time on the drafted handbook, reaching out to athletic directors throughout the state. In the end, the handbook is designed for Centerburg, Porter said.

Porter was hired as athletic director at June’s board meeting, though he was first hired as AD in the fall 2015. Porter left in Fall 2022, he said.

Also at the meeting the board approved: 

  • Also, an amended the certified athletic trainer agreement to $13,500 with Knox Community Hospital on July 1, 2024. 
  • School lunch prices are $3 at the high school and middle school. They’re $2.75 at the elementary. Reduced costs are .30 cents for breakfast and .40 for lunch. Breakfast will be $1.50 for the 2024-25 school year. 
  • Approved the 2024-25 HS/MS handbook. 
  • Approved the Fall and Winter sports and ticket passes for the 2024-25 school year. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students ages 5-18 and seniors citizens for all varsity events. Non-varisity event tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for students and senior citizens. 
  • Approved the 2023-24 District Health and Wellness Plan. 
  • Approved Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding membership for Fiscal Year 2024-25. 
  • Approved a contact with Tri-County ESC for Medicaid services for the 2024-25 school year.