(Updated) EEHK & Audubon Superintendent of Schools Trevor Miller released an update following Tuesday night’s Exira/EHK school board meeting, regarding the possible sports-sharing agreement with Audubon. Mr. Miller led off by thanking everyone who attended both the Community Athletics Meeting in Elk Horn last week and Tuesday’s Board Meeting.
“We appreciate the respectful conversations and thoughtful questions from our families, students, staff, and community members throughout this process, said Miller. “As shared in previous communications, the administration and Board of Directors recognize that these have been difficult conversations. The decisions being considered have not been made lightly. Throughout this process, our focus has remained on one priority: doing what is best for our students and preserving quality athletic opportunities for years to come.”
During Tuesday night’s meeting, the Board discussed athletic sharing opportunities. Mr. Petersen and Mr. Miller answered questions from board members before the Board voted to approve the following recommendations from Mr. Petersen. These recommendations will now be presented to the
Audubon Community School District Board of Education on Monday, July 20, at 7:00 p.m. If individuals would like to speak at the Audubon Board meeting, please reach out to Carla Christensen or Trevor Miller by Monday at 12:30. An informational meeting at 6:00 p.m. will be held before the board meeting for any questions or clarifications. Both will be in the conference room at the secondary building in Audubon. If approved by both boards, the agreements will take effect beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.
“It is important to emphasize that these discussions are strictly about athletics and activities. They do not involve whole-grade sharing, closing school buildings, or changes to academic programming,” said Miller.
The following are the approved Athletic Hosting Recommendations by the Exira-EHK Board:
Girls Athletics
● Cross Country – Exira-EHK Host
● Basketball – Exira-EHK Host (previously approved)
● Softball – Exira-EHK Host
● Track & Field – Audubon/Exira-EHK (practices and competitions will utilize Audubon’s track
facilities)
Girls’ basketball had previously been approved for a four-year agreement. The remaining girls’ sports were approved to align with that same timeframe.
Boys Athletics
● Cross Country – Exira-EHK Host
● Junior High Football – Audubon Host
● Basketball – Audubon Host
● Track & Field – Audubon Host
● Baseball – Audubon Host
The boys’ athletic hosting agreements listed above were approved for a three-year term.
Continuing Current Agreements:
● Boys/Girls Wrestling
● Boys/Girls Tennis
Miller says these programs will continue under their current setup, as also shared with IKM-Manning. During the discussion, the Board also recognized that this partnership reflects the current participation trends in both districts. At this time, Audubon has lower participation numbers in several girls’ programs, while Exira-EHK has lower participation numbers in several boys’ programs. The approved hosting structure is intended to support sustainable, competitive programs for students in both school districts.
If the Audubon Board approves these recommendations, representatives from both districts—including two board members from each district, both Activities Directors, and the Superintendent will update the Memorandum of Understanding. This work will include finalizing agreement timelines, facility usage, coaching assignments, and other operational details necessary for a successful partnership.
“We understand that not everyone will agree with every decision made. However, please know that these conversations have always been centered on providing the best possible opportunities for our students. Every discussion has been guided by what will best support student participation, competitive experiences, and the long-term future of athletics in both communities.
“We remain committed to being transparent throughout this process and will continue to share updates following the Audubon Board meeting and subsequent committee meetings.”
Thank you again for your continued support, your engagement, and your commitment to our students. Have a wonderful week.”
Mr. Petersen, EEHK Activities Director
Mr. Miller, EEHK & Audubon Superintendent
