(Elk Horn, IA) – The Exira-EHK Community School District is inviting students, parents, coaches, staff, alumni, and community members to attend a community meeting focused on the future of Spartan athletics. Exira-EHK Activities Director Tom Petersen and Superintendent Trevor Mills, say the meeting will take place at 6-p.m. on July 7th, 2026, in the Exira-EHK High School Gymnasium.
In a news release, Petersen and Miller say “As many communities across rural Iowa continue to experience enrollment changes, and students not participating in activities. Exira-EHK is committed to proactively evaluating the long-term sustainability and success of our athletic programs. This meeting will provide an opportunity to share current information regarding participation numbers, program offerings, coaching considerations, and enrollment trends that impact our athletic opportunities.”
The purpose of this meeting is to:
● Review current participation numbers across Exira-EHK athletic programs.
● Share information regarding enrollment trends in Junior high and youth sports.
● Discuss the strengths and challenges of maintaining independent Spartan programs.
● Explore potential options for the future, including maintaining our current structure, sharing programs, or other cooperative opportunities.
● Gather feedback from students, coaches, parents, and community members.
● Engage in an open and transparent discussion focused on providing the best possible opportunities for our student-athletes.
Petersen and Miller say “No decisions have been made regarding the future structure of Exira-EHK athletics. This meeting is intended to provide information, encourage dialogue, and allow stakeholders to share perspectives for what is best for our students and athletic programs moving forward in the short and long term. The Exira-EHK School Board and administration value the tradition and pride of Spartan athletics and recognize the importance of community input as we consider future opportunities and challenges.
We encourage all interested community members to attend and participate in this important conversation.
Together, we can work to ensure that Exira-EHK students continue to have meaningful, competitive, and sustainable athletic opportunities for years to come.”
