Edwardsville School Board Approves Track Safety Enhancements

News Summary

The Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board took decisive action to enhance safety for student athletes by approving extensions to the track chutes at Edwardsville High School. The board’s decision, made on September 8, 2025, includes a 6-foot south extension and a significant 35-foot north extension, totaling an investment of $25,100. This initiative aims to address safety concerns raised during ongoing construction and ensure that athletes can practice without risk while competing effectively.

Edwardsville School Board Takes Action on High School Track Safety!

In a refreshing show of unity, the Edwardsville Community Unit School District #7 Board came together to tackle an important safety issue last week. On September 8, 2025, the board made a unanimous decision regarding the extension of the track chutes at Edwardsville High School, ensuring that student athletes can compete safely and effectively.

A Necessary Response to Safety Concerns

The need for action originated from a safety concern identified during ongoing construction for the track and field facilities. It became evident that the existing chutes located on the west side of the track were not meeting the necessary length requirements for student safety. This discovery prompted school officials to consult coaches and board members on how to address the issue effectively.

According to the district’s Superintendent, Dr. Patrick Shelton, it was crucial to find a solution that would keep the students safe while participating in their athletic programs. There were two potential options on the table for the chute extensions which the board members had to evaluate closely.

Options on the Chopping Block

Option one proposed a more modest extension: a 14-foot extension to the north and a 6-foot extension to the south, with a total projected cost of $10,400. Alternatively, option two offered a more ambitious approach—extending the chutes 35 feet to the north and 6 feet to the south, bringing the total to $25,100.

However, the board had its hands tied when it came to how much the south side could be extended. It could only realistically accommodate a modest six-foot extension without major disruptions. But, on the north side, there was an opportunity to maximize safety by extending the chutes right up to the fence line, or even beyond it if the fence were taken down.

Coaches Advocate for Maximum Safety

As discussions continued, track and field coaches** emphasized the second option as the best means of ensuring the utmost safety for the athletes. Currently, students have been forced to practice on grass due to the limitations presented by the chutes. This posed a serious risk, as the grass is not an ideal surface for serious track practice.