(Red Oak, Iowa) — Officials with the Red Oak Community School District announced Wednesday, the District is honored to have received a formal invitation to join the Western Iowa Conference (WIC). The WIC is currently exploring expansion opportunities and is seeking member schools that demonstrate a strong and ongoing commitment to excellence in athletics, activities, and academics. The Shenandoah Community School District also received an invitation to leave the Hawkeye Ten Conference to join the WIC (Western Iowa Conference).

According to the invitation, the Red Oak CSD is viewed as a strong potential addition to the conference based on several key factors. These include its geographic proximity to current WIC member schools, similar enrollment history, a wide range of comparable activity offerings, overall district stability, a football classification in line with existing members, and the quality and availability of its athletic and activity facilities. The WIC also noted Red Oak’s competitiveness and continued commitment to programs in varsity and middle school sports, fine arts, and other student activities that align with the conference’s values.

While the Red Oak CSD is interested in exploring this opportunity as a means of enhancing the competitiveness and quality of its student programs, no final decision has been made. District leaders plan to gather input from coaches, staff, and other key stakeholders before making a recommendation to the Board of Directors. The Board will carefully consider all feedback before making any determination. The Red Oak CSD remains committed to a transparent, inclusive, and collaborative decision-making process.

“We are grateful to the Western Iowa Conference for extending this invitation and for recognizing the strength and potential of our school district,” said Ron Lorenz, Superintendent of the Red Oak CSD. “We look forward to engaging in thoughtful conversations about this opportunity and what it could mean for our students.”