LAUSD sets aside $9 million to pay for sports uniforms for its high school teams

The Los Angeles Unified School District has set aside $9 million to be used over the next three years to pay for sports uniforms at all levels for athletic teams at its 83 district high schools, sports coordinator Trent Cornelius said Monday.

Cornelius made the announcement to school athletic directors. Three vendors will be used to supply the uniforms, including for cheerleaders.

Cornelius said the decision to pay for uniforms will help the district follow the education code that makes playing for a sports team free of charge. Cutbacks to student body funds in recent years have forced coaches and schools to fundraise for uniforms.

“We’re trying to eliminate pay to play,” Cornelius said.

Taft Athletic Director Mark Drucker said the decision is “fantastic” for schools that have seen athletic budgets severely cut.

“We have no money,” he said. “The administration is going to be thrilled.”

Coaches and parents have been paying for uniforms at lots of schools.

Cornelius also announced that an additional coaching stipend will be made available this fall in the sports of football, swimming and cross country.

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