State Board of Education members unanimously turned down two proposals Thursday that would have added a fourth classification in a few high school sports and a longer summer practice schedule.

They agreed 8-0 that the state's largest high schools should not compete in Class AAAA for football, girls' basketball and boys' basketball, citing the opportunities schools already have to reach the state playoffs.

Some coaches and principals favored a fourth class, saying more teams could reach the state tournament in those sports.

Board members also agreed 8-0 to not extend the summer high school practice schedule from three weeks to eight weeks. Most agreed that students need time off in the summer, and student-athletes would feel pressured to participate in summer practices.

Board member Barbara Fish was absent.

Read more in Friday's Gazette.    

State Board of Education members unanimously turned down two proposals Thursday that would have added a fourth classification in a few high school sports and a longer summer practice schedule.

They agreed 8-0 that the state's largest high schools should not compete in Class AAAA for football, girls' basketball and boys' basketball, citing the opportunities schools already have to reach the state playoffs.

Some coaches and principals favored a fourth class, saying more teams could reach the state tournament in those sports.

Board members also agreed 8-0 to not extend the summer high school practice schedule from three weeks to eight weeks. Most agreed that students need time off in the summer, and student-athletes would feel pressured to participate in summer practices.

Board member Barbara Fish was absent.

Read more in Friday's Gazette.