The Crossville Chronicle reports that the Cumberland County Board of Education recently revisited discussions on appointing a full-time athletic director during a January 15, 2026, work session, amid a broader conversation about the future of the elementary basketball program. Director of Schools Rebecca Farley recommended retaining the 3-5 grade basketball program while eliminating the 6-8 grade elementary basketball due to low participation—only six teams total (two girls’ and four boys’)—and shifting focus to middle school feeder teams, which now include junior varsity and varsity levels to expand opportunities for more students. She highlighted ongoing challenges in finding coaches, referees, and game workers, noting that the current structure has led to scheduling issues and insufficient player interest, particularly with no girls’ teams on the high school feeder side.

Board member Jon Matthews opposed the recommendation, arguing that the 6-8 program generates revenue for schools and organizations, provides valuable playing opportunities for children to learn the sport, and fosters parental involvement. He described the recent 6-8 season as poorly scheduled and a “disaster,” but emphasized that eliminating it removes needed activities for kids and families. Matthews advocated for a full-time athletic director to better promote participation, recruit coaches, train referees, and improve overall program management, contrasting this with the current part-time approach covering multiple schools.

Other members weighed in: Travis Cole questioned whether a dedicated athletic director might prevent such recommendations, while Nicholas Davis noted that students have alternative sports opportunities outside school, contributing to declining participation possibly due to factors like coaching quality, scheduling, or time commitments favoring more competitive club or middle school play over recreational elementary programs. Chairman Scott VanWinkle requested additional financial and participation data from schools for a more informed decision.

The board is set to vote on the ’26-’27 basketball proposal—likely encompassing these changes—at its full meeting on January 22, 2026, at 6 p.m. in the Central Services building in Crossville. The agenda for that meeting includes various action items such as budget amendments, policy readings, field trip approvals, fundraisers, and personnel matters, with community comments available (limited to three minutes per speaker via sign-up).

Several board members were absent from the work session, including Elizabeth Stull, Sheri Nichols, Anita Hale, and Shannon Stout.