The athletics topic dominated a significant portion of the February 26, 2026, Cumberland County Board of Education meeting, driven by ongoing concerns about student-athlete eligibility issues, lack of progress on extracurricular goals in the district’s Strategic Plan, and perceived gaps in oversight and coordination for athletics and related activities across the district.

Earlier in the meeting, a parent described the removal of 13 middle school student-athletes from their teams due to a zoning ruling by the Tennessee Middle School Athletic Association (TMSAA). The speaker highlighted the emotional toll on the affected students—who had already practiced, bonded with teammates, and participated in preseason events—and criticized the timing and enforcement, questioning why the rule couldn’t be phased in for the current season rather than applied mid-year.

Later on, Director of Schools Dr. Farley presented a proposed timeline for updating the athletic procedure manual, preparing practice/game schedules, and addressing related needs. The board had previously discussed this in a work session, including whether to form a dedicated athletic committee or pursue other structural changes.

Debate centered on two main paths:

• Forming a committee to study needs, recommend solutions, and ensure alignment with the Strategic Plan’s goals for extracurriculars as an “additional classroom setting.”
• Creating a dedicated full-time position for an athletic/activities director to centralize coordination, prevent eligibility oversights, support scheduling and transportation efficiencies, and oversee not just competitive sports but broader extracurriculars for a “more well-rounded student experience”.

Board members expressed frustration that athletics and extracurricular progress had lagged despite being part of the Strategic Plan, with some noting a decline in dedicated personnel as well as budget implications, as the position would require funding. Sustainability was also a concern due to rising costs for salaries and benefits, and whether it might overlap with existing roles or dilute focus on core academic and safety priorities.

After amendments and extended discussion, the board voted 5-3 to create a full-time athletic and activities director position rather than a new committee.

Dr. Farley agreed to refine and share a job description and salary details for review at the next work session.