The Pleasant Valley Board of Education announced it will not appeal the decision to strip the girls track team of its state and regional titles for 2014.
On June 23, Pleasant Valley learned of potential violations by a member of the track team and then self reported the information to the Iowa Girls' High School Athletic Union. Junior Kaley Ciluffo allegedly competed in three different college-sanctioned events, which is against Iowa Code.
The IGHSAU then met in closed session in July, and decided to strip the team of all state and regional titles and awards, including the PV girls' first state championship title since 1991.
"My reaction is disappointed that the Board didn't appeal this," said Kevin Swanson, a parent of a PV track athlete.
While he respects both the PV Board and the district, Monday, Swanson questioned whether the state should reconsider what he calls "an antiquated rule."
"Rules need to be revisited as well, and was it a reasonable, just thing to affect the entire school district, the reputation of the program, and the kids and coaches?" Swanson asked.
In a statement, the Board said it does not think a further appeal is appropriate or in the best interest of the students, but that it believes the team and program will come back stronger than ever.
"We'll be back, we'll win more championships. But our program prospers beyond championships, and I think that's important not to lose sight of that," said Superintendent Jim Spelhaug.