RRMR, North Butler School Boards Meet to Explore Shared Athletic, Academic Programs

Rudd-Rockford-Marble Rock and North Butler School Boards will meet jointly Thursday (07.16) evening to explore possibilities for sharing athletic and/or academic programs.

That’s new RRMR Superintendent Nick Johnson, who says no action will be taken Thursday night. It’s just open dialogue to share ideas that could benefit students and their communities.

In each of the last two seasons, RRMR had to drop girls varsity basketball due to insufficient numbers. Last fall, the Warriors suspended play for their 8-man football team for the second time in four years.

Johnson, also RRMR High School Principal, adds that program sharing, especially in athletics, has been an increasing norm in neighboring states.

In a joint letter to school families, staff and community members, Johnson and North Butler Superintendent Bryan Boysen noted, “As school districts across Iowa continue navigate declining enrollment, increasing operational costs, and ongoing workforce challenges, school leaders have an important responsibility to explore opportunities that strengthen educational programs while remaining good stewards of taxpayer resources.”

The joint meeting of the schools boards is scheduled for 6 PM Thursday in the Media Center at North Butler Community School in Greene.