Hendry County School District Live Stream

The Hendry County School District board meeting on September 9, 2026, included extensive discussions on the recently implemented $50 athletic participation fee for student athletes. Community members, including Mr. Joseph Davis who pledged to raise $20,000 to offset the fee, and student athlete Michael Ross, expressed concerns about the financial burden on families and the fairness of the fee. The board reviewed the rationale behind the fee, citing increased costs for equipment, maintenance, and referees, alongside declining gate revenues and coaching shortages. A motion was made to rescind the athletic fee decision and revisit it after gathering detailed financial data on team fundraising, booster club donations, and gate revenues, as well as exploring community-led initiatives to support athletics funding. Additionally, the board discussed and approved budget items including the 2026-2027 final budget, a mental health program contract with requested amendments, and plans for an employee health clinic with Henry Regional Medical Center. The mental health program contract was tabled pending further data on participation and effectiveness. Updates on capital projects such as the redesign and construction progress of Lavell High School and tennis court renovations were also provided. The meeting emphasized transparency and community involvement in future funding decisions for athletics and student services.