Background:
Over the past year, the Crescent School District has been engaged in discussions regarding the replacement of outdated athletic scoreboards. The football field scoreboard, installed in the 1970s, has exceeded its useful life and no longer meets modern visibility or functional standards. Similarly, the gymnasium scoreboards, installed in the 1990s, are outdated and unreliable.
The Athletic Department, in collaboration with the Crescent Boosters/PTO and interested community members, has explored options for upgraded scoreboards that would improve the experience for athletes, coaches, fans, and the broader school community. These discussions have focused on both athletic and educational value, identifying solutions that can serve multiple functions across school programs.
Proposal:
The project includes the replacement of the football field scoreboard and both gymnasium scoreboards with modern, video-capable display boards. These new scoreboards will significantly improve visibility, allow programmable messaging, and support dynamic sponsor recognition. In addition, the project includes the installation of two new wireless shot clocks in the gymnasium, which will support the fan experience, provide instructional opportunities for students, and assist game officials in managing clock operations in alignment with WIAA requirements.
Instructional and Multi-Use Benefits:
Beyond athletics, these new video boards will offer valuable instructional and fundraising opportunities for students. Students will be able to gain hands-on experience in graphic design, media production, and marketing by creating and managing content displayed on the boards. School groups and clubs will also be able to fundraise by selling advertising space, creating a sustainable revenue stream that supports extracurricular activities.
Additionally, in recent years, the district has installed video broadcasting equipment in the gymnasium to allow for live-streaming of athletic events—equipment provided at no cost to the district. However, the existing scoreboards are not compatible with this technology. The new scoreboards will integrate fully with the video system, improving the viewer experience both in the gym and online.
Estimated Cost:
- Equipment and components (scoreboards, video boards, wireless shot clocks): $128,707.20
- Estimated installation (not to exceed): $15,000.00
- Total Project Estimate: $143,707.20
A portion of the installation may be completed with the assistance of local volunteers and donated equipment, which could reduce overall installation costs.
Funding:
Funding for this project is expected to come from a combination of sources:
- State Forest Revenue: The district has received significant revenue from State Department of Natural Resources (DNR)-managed forestlands located within district boundaries. These funds are eligible for use on capital projects and are a suitable funding source for this facility improvement.
- Sponsorship and Advertising Sales: It is anticipated that 30% to 40% of the total project cost will be offset through advertising sales. The electronic boards will enable digital sponsor recognition, and school groups will be empowered to generate funds by selling advertising space, which supports both student learning and program sustainability.
- Community Support: Additional support may come from the Crescent Boosters/PTO and local donors who have expressed interest in the project.
These funding sources make the project both feasible and sustainable, while engaging students and community members in meaningful ways.