Jackson-Reed has almost an embarrassment of riches when it comes to sports offerings, over 25 sports programs and over 45 teams. We have sports programs that are offered to all DCPS high schools (football, basketball, bowling), sports programs that no other DC public school offers (crew, squash) and others that few public schools offer (lacrosse, wrestling, field hockey).
What was the historical funding model for Jackson-Reed athletics?
Historically, our teams were supported by four funding sources:
- DCIAA (District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletics Association), which earmarked funds for specific programs but not for “club” sports - see full list of DCIAA-sponsored sports here.
- SAF (Student Activity Fund), specifically monies generated from Wilson facility and field rentals that Wilson received and used to support its athletics, arts and other activities. Until 2018, the SAF was also used to pay coach stipends for the many coaches who did not already receive a DCIAA coach stipend. It also paid for buses for many expenses not covered by DCIAA, including travel, tournament fees and equipment.
- Parent contributions
- Fundraising
What has changed?
The historical funding model is gone, at least for now. In 2019, Jackson-Reed lost access to the field rental money (it is no longer deposited into the SAF for Jackson-Reed use), and the athletics programs lost over $110K alone. The Jackson-Reed Beacon published an excellent piece that explains the history of this funding model here, and where the SAF money now goes.
A quick FYI: Jackson Reed Athletics only differentiates team status based on funding. Teams supported in part by DCIAA are called as such (“DCIAA-sponsored”), and teams that are responsible for their own funding (or who previously depended on SAF) are colloquially known as “club teams.” All teams, regardless of funding, have Varsity or JV status and abide by the same athlete eligibility rules.
What is the current funding model?
Jackson Reed athletics currently has four sources of funding:
- DCIAA Funding
DCIAA funds are limited in scope and practice. DCIAA only funds specific teams, not sports. As a result, there are situations, such as the soccer programs, where DCIAA funds the varsity teams, but not the JV teams. You can see the complete list of teams funded by DCIAA here.
DCIAA pays for all inter-league games, including transportation and officials. Because DCIAA supports only DCPS schools, inter-league games are limited to other DCPS high schools. Jackson Reed does not see any of this money, since these details are managed by DCIAA.
DCIAA also provides a modest annual supplement for equipment and uniforms, which must be evenly distributed between girls and boys teams in accordance with Title IX. However, the additional funds are not nearly enough money to fully support the teams.
Furthermore, DCIAA funding cannot be used to support games outside the DCIAA league, and all but two Jackson Reed teams compete in non-league games. For example, when our teams play private schools, charter schools, or public schools outside of DCPS, DCIAA funding does not apply.
- TEAM Fundraising
Fundraising is a critical part of the success of Jackson-Reed’s teams, especially those that are not financially supported by DCIAA.
Teams actively fundraise many ways, including:
- Restaurant nights (team gets a percentage of receipts)
- Product sales (Krispy Crème, metal straws, popcorn, etc.)
- Hosting large sales events (Crew’s winter wreath and spring plant sales)
- Hosting large community events (Tenley Tiger Run)
Teams associated with Tiger Boosters have access to its 501c3 status to fundraise and solicit donations, in addition to using its tax-exempt status.
- Parent Contributions
First, it is important to note that no players are turned away due to lack of ability to contribute to their team.
However, many parents generously support their student-athlete’s programs. Most Teams solicit funds by setting a suggested contribution for team “dues,” to offset team related expenses for non-league competition not covered by school funding.
- Tiger Boosters
The Tiger Boosters is a fully registered and licensed 501c3 nonprofit. It was launched in July 2018 with the goal of supporting Jackson Reed (formerly Wilson) athletics program. One of its key benefits to teams is that it allows them to solicit charitable contributions and to manage and access their funds without restriction. It also offers teams access to services such as TeamSnap and a team bank account. Tiger Boosters does not provide direct funding to teams, rather it serves as a pass-thru vehicle to allow teams to self manage efficiently.
What are the key financial needs for Jackson-Reed athletics?
Non-league games, and tournaments (including DCSAA State Championships, for which no transportation funding is provided) are a crucial part of the Jackson-Reed athletics program. They often require our student-athletes to level up their skills and games, since private schools are better funded and supported, with multiple coaches where we might only have one or two. Our athletes love these games, and the rivalries we’ve acquired add to the pride of our successes. Plus it helps our athletes get noticed, which undoubtedly plays a role in why we have such a large number of student-athletes who go on to play sports in college and beyond, many on scholarships.
Every non-DCIAA game, tournament, or clinic that our student-athletes attend must be funded. This includes bus transportation (for away games), and paying officials (for home games). It includes event fees, hotels and meals for tournament trips. Plus our teams must now raise funds for uniforms and equipment large and small.
SPORTS
EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS
Tiger Bash
Tiger CrabFeast
Tenley Tiger Run
Homecoming
DC Sneaker Expo
CAMPS, CLINICS & TOURNAMENTS
Basketball Summer Camp
Cheer Camp
Contact Us
Jackson-Reed High School
3950 Chesapeake St NW
Washington DC 20016
202-282-0120