Dear Parents/Guardians,

I continue to be amazed at the support shown by the fan base following of the Eads Eagles. Even at away events, our sport teams are well represented by fans in purple and gold. Overall, I feel that the majority of Eads Eagle fans cheer for our team and treat the other team and referees with respect. However, there is a growing number of fans that are not representing Eads in an appropriate manner and are bringing negative attention to our organization.

This has become obvious after a recent event in which some fans have communicated that they were embarrassed by a few of the Eads fans’ actions during the game. These actions were disrespectful and rude to the opposing players and referees. It is not acceptable for the actions of a few to create an uncomfortable situation for our fans, let alone how it negatively impacts our students, families, schools, district, and community.

I would like to communicate the following facts to ensure that our district is looked upon with respect and that we provide a safe, positive, and competitive environment for our student/athletes:

1. Game day is 100 percent for our student athletes to compete and to try their skills and strategies against an opposing team.
2. Cheer for our team. Do not cheer against the other team by celebrating their mistakes and shortcomings.
3. Respect the referees as they are in high demand, and I have never seen a call overturned by a screaming biased fan. The coach is the only one that should discuss concerns with a referee.
4. Athletics is a prime way to teach our student athletes that one must be dedicated and work hard to develop their skills to be successful and competitive.
5. Our players feed off the crowd regardless of whether it is positive or negative energy. I am seeing more players mirror the actions of the negative fan behavior.
6. Eads School District has enjoyed many successes in academics, extra-curricular activities, and athletics. The way our fans represent our district has an impact on who potentially may consider moving to our community in the future.

Please consider the above points so that we can provide a safe, exciting, and competitive atmosphere for our students. Fans that display rude and negative behavior will be removed from the event, and future privileges may be jeopardized. We owe it our students to make it about them and to do everything in our power to make these contests enjoyable, exciting, meaningful, and drama-free. 

Thank you for your continued support.

Glenn Smith

Superintendent/Elementary Principal

Kiowa County School District RE-1