HANSON — At the May 6, 2026, School Committee meeting, the district celebrated the expansion of inclusive sports and high-level vocational training even as it grappled with a “disgraceful” lack of funding for athletics. While town meetings recently approved the district budget, officials warned that the reliance on parent-funding of sports is unsustainable. The committee also moved to finalize custodial contracts and adjusted town transportation assessments following successful town meeting votes.
Inclusive Excellence: Hanson Middle School Unified Sports
The meeting began with a presentation from Hanson Middle School students and staff regarding the new Unified Sports Program.
Program Growth: Started this winter with a historic Unified basketball team that held scrimmages at pep rallies and high school halftimes.
New Horizons: The school has expanded into Unified Cornhole, with a tournament scheduled for May 21st in West Bridgewater.
Impact: Students described the program as a way to break down barriers through “playing together, friendship, and understanding”.
The Athletics “Crisis”: 30 Years of Fundraising
Athletic Director Bob Rodgers delivered a stark report on the state of the district’s 27 sports programs.
Funding Gaps: Following a $250,000 budget cut, the department is attempting to run all sports on a $100,000 annual budget, which Rodgers called “not sustainable”.
Equipment & Uniforms: Rodgers revealed that the school district has not purchased a single athletic uniform in nearly 30 years; all gear is paid for through student fundraising.
Participation Trends: Student-athlete numbers have dipped to 503 this year, down from 531 two years ago. High user fees ($375 for the first sport) are cited as a significant barrier for families.
Privatization Concerns: Committee member Rosemary Hill expressed alarm that sports have essentially been “privatized,” placing an undue tax on parents.
