Prior Lake‑Savage showcases winter athletes, music and theater in Laker Pride; leaders warn budget cuts will affect co‑curriculars

Prior Lake‑Savage Area Schools used the April 13 board meeting to showcase 'Laker Pride,' honoring winter athletics, music and theater achievements while calling attention to looming budget pressures.

Activities Director Jeff Marshall highlighted students who qualified for state competition in weightlifting, DECA, mock trial, band, choir, gymnastics and several winter sports. He named student qualifiers and coaches, celebrated team finishes (including a boys basketball 27–7 season and a state championship performance in the boys 100‑yard breaststroke by Owen Bodet), and announced multiple music students selected to MMEA all‑state ensembles.

Marshall closed the recognition with a stark reminder: the activities department faces more than $100,000 in proposed reductions for next year that would cut stipends and reduce coaching staff, affecting choir, football coaching positions, track, softball and a girls flag football coach.

Board members applauded students and thanked families. Marshall told directors and attendees the department will continue providing opportunities 'in the meantime' even as hard budget decisions loom.

The recognition gave parents and students a visible moment of community celebration during a meeting otherwise dominated by budget discussions and personnel decisions.

For details on team and individual nominations and coaches, the district’s activities office maintains a roster of qualifiers and awards.