–Students in the 8th grade will soon be able to participate in Varsity level High School sports after legislation was signed by Governor Kim Reynolds earlier this month. Algona High School Athletic Director Andy Jacobson presented information to the school board during their June meeting, and he says they have been told to have policies in place by August 1st.
The legislation provides local control over the eligibility of 8th graders, and Superintendent Joe Carter says subjectivity must be considered.
Local control would allow schools to determine which sports could use 8th grade athletes if necessary.
Carter says the discussions will continue once they are provided with guidance from state officials.
The Iowa High School Athletic Association and the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union will have to make some changes as well. Student athletes are currently only allowed to compete in Varsity level sports for 8 semesters.
