Confusion about field use was in play

This letter is a response to the concerned citizen who wrote a recent letter about the Snohomish School District use of stadium lights on Sundays. After Coach Mark Perry spoke with the letter writer, it became clear that there are some misconceptions about the use of athletic fields in Snohomish. All schools in the state, including Snohomish, are bound by Washington Interscholastic Athletic and Activities Association (WIAA) to not practice athletics on Sundays. The spirit of this rule is to allow time for families and students to use Sundays as their family feels necessary. It is helpful to know that when athletic facilities, including the stadium, are used on Sundays it is community groups who have rented the facilities for their needs.

Another portion of the letter discussed a concern that the Snohomish School District is spending money paying for lights on Sundays. It is important to understand that when community groups use athletic or building facilities, they pay for their use under the facilities use agreement. This process makes certain that taxpayer money is accounted for and not wasted. It is also a fair evaluation of what facilities cost to operate, manage and upkeep.

I hope this info helps taxpayers and supporters of athletics better understand how we are accountable to the community.

Assistant Principal/AD

Snohomish High School