The school district-sponsored gymnastics program in Sioux Falls was on unsteady ground heading into the summer break. For a few dozen young gymnasts, the axe has officially fallen on their team.
While finalizing a budget of roughly $320 million, one of the items on the chopping block was the Sioux Falls School District gymnastics program.
District business manager Todd Vik said this is the same preliminary budget that was approved months ago. He highlighted adjustments made in the budget that were ultimately adopted by the board.
“The general fund budget includes a seven percent increase in state aid formula," Vik said. "We’ve raised our starting teacher salary to an excess of $50,000. That’s up from just less than $38,000 in FY20. Our total tax-supported budget is $321.8 million. The tax levee for homeowners is projected to drop by 28 cents next year.”
Gymnastics represented a yearly investment of roughly $75,000 for the district. Coaches connected to the team have also lost their jobs as a result of the cut.
Through budget-writing process, many students, parents, and coaches advocated for the team. Students like Lincoln High School senior Anna Leuning, who spoke about the sports value at a prior board meeting.
“The removal of gymnastics means no source for girls to show up and bring their talents, strengths and personalities to the plate," Leuning said. "Having the opportunity to do gymnastics gives young women the most important lessons, both physical and emotional, while going through one of the most difficult and emotional times of our teenage years.”
Some supporters angled for a Title IX argument to save the team, which was rejected by the district. Following the gymnastics cut, there will be 12 boys sports and 15 girls sports for students in Sioux Falls public schools.