Parent urges Banning Unified to add weight-room period for football, citing safety and program growth

During the public comment period on Dec. 11, parent and youth leader Tanisha Moreno urged the Banning Unified Board of Trustees to approve a dedicated weight-room period as a sixth-period class for Banning High School football.

"Adding the weight room period is not a luxury. It's a necessity and an investment in student safety through proper strength and conditioning," Moreno told the board. She said the team has earned back-to-back league championships in 2024 and 2025 under Coach Neesel and argued consistent access to strength training supports injury prevention and academic accountability.

Moreno also said she has served as a youth leader in the Banning community and has seen the program's positive effect on student engagement and mentorship. She asked trustees to support the request on behalf of student athletes and their families.

Trustees did not take immediate action; the comment was recorded and may be referred to district staff for follow up.