Parents and students press Caledonia board for immediate plan to repair unsafe tennis courts

Dozens of parents, students and a district employee urged the Caledonia Community Schools board to prioritize repairs and staffing for the district’s tennis program during public comment at the April meeting.

Jennifer LaPorte, a parent and local business owner, said the courts’ surface condition is unacceptable for student athletes and asked the board for a "clear written plan and a timeline to adjust these concerns." Zane Stanley, another parent, said neglect has left the program "consistently on the decline" and pressed for at least one assistant coach per competition site.

Rebecca Francis, who identified herself as both a district employee and a parent, called the conditions "not only an eyesore but a major safety risk," saying cracks and uneven surfaces have forced the district to relocate tournaments and increased the likelihood of injury. Student Quinn Cook recounted a personal safety incident last summer when a court developed a sudden dip under his foot.

Several younger players echoed the plea: sixth grader Zach Koeffler said nets were sagging and cracks had trapped his shoe; seventh grader Marlo said the courts made players feel "overlooked" and unable to host tournaments at home.

Speakers asked for specific remedies: written plans, timelines for construction or resurfacing, installation of windscreens and permanent storage, and assignment of sufficient coaching staff. The board acknowledged the concerns during the meeting but did not vote on a repair plan or set timelines; the public-comment portion closed without a formal board action on tennis facilities.

The outcome: trustees will consider the public input as budget and bond planning continue; parents asked the board to return with a clear timeline and funding plan at a future meeting.