Budget constraints led the Oakland Unified School District to cut 10 high school sports programs, but the Oakland Raiders have stepped in to help.
The team released a statement announcing a $250,000 donation to the OUSD, also sharing a message from owner Mark Davis.
“The prospect of these kids losing their dreams was difficult to hear for everyone in the community. After school athletics are an important part of the high school experience and this donation will keep student-athletes on the playing fields in Oakland.”
According to Michael Lerseth of the San Francisco Gate, the donation will cover half of what the district said was needed to balance its budget.
The “controversial” cut removed $500,000 from the Oakland Athletic League, eliminating teams for 347 girls and 183 boys. As a result, OUSD has taken criticism for a potential Title IX violation.
Thanks to the Raiders, however, many of these programs can be restored.