Parkland School Board Member Rails Against Sports Ads

Rob Cohen, chairman of Parkland School Board's Education and Athletics Committee, doesn't think  is a good idea for the district.

's Education and Athletic Committee has been discussing plans to sell advertising signage at its home football, basketball and baseball facilities and the subject came up again at Tuesday morning's committee meeting, where Cohen spoke his mind.

"We're not in the business of getting money that way," he said. "We get money through grant money and taxes. We're a public institution, and we're heading down a slippery slope."

Cohen said he thought Parkland was a district held to higher standards, even though many other districts, including Salisbury, Bethlehem and many universities, use this tactic to raise funds.

The plan may turn out as controversial as the one earlier this year that allowed

said district policy allows for up to $1,000 per advertiser per year.

The district has been in talks with local Allstate Insurance Co. agencies about putting advertising signage up on the school's football field, basketball court and baseball field, as well as in its printed programs.

District spokeswoman Nicole McGalla said Allstate's offer was for $3,000 per year and included three banner ads, public address announcements and magnets during football, baseball and basketball seasons.

"I don't think its cost-effective," Cohen said. "I'm against it, and I'll say so in the big room. I think this should be brought up before all the committees.

Sniscak said there is no need for an immediate timetable on the issue.