Donnellson, IA- The Southeast Conference (SEC) could be an eight-team conference by the time the 2028-29 school year rolls around after the Central Lee Community School District Board of Education approved the official request to leave the Southeast Iowa Super Conference (SEISC) to join the SEC. Middle school athletics would begin with the 2027-28 school year.
The school district has pondered the move for the last several months, discussing enrollment growth, the expansion of student activities, and eyeing the strong arts department within the SEC. Despite over 30 years belonging to the SEISC, as one of the biggest teams of the conference the long-term fit leans toward the SEC according to Superintendent Dr. Andy Crozier,
“While varsity athletics often receive the most attention, one of the most important considerations for our district is ensuring opportunities for participation at the junior high, freshman, and junior varsity levels. We believe the Southeast Conference structure will provide more consistent opportunities for our students to compete and participate.”
For most of the Hawk sports, Central Lee sits at Class 2A with softball being an exception. Yet, the enrollment trend points to Central Lee jumping up to Class 3A in nearly all sports within the next few years. Additionally, the Hawks noted that lower-level competitions within the SEISC were reduced or canceled due to smaller participation numbers amongst the other schools.
The district also cited Central Lee’s enrollment size, geographic location, range of activities, and academic reputation as factors that make the district a strong fit within the Southeast Conference.
“We are excited about the opportunities this move creates for our students both academically and athletically,” Crozier said. “Our goal is to provide meaningful experiences for students across a wide range of activities and interests.”
The move would need approval from both the Southeast Conference Schools along with the Conference Realignment Committee appointed by the Iowa Legislature. Central Lee would join Burlington, Fairfield, Fort Madison, Keokuk, Mt. Pleasant, and Washington, with Oskaloosa scheduled to join for the 2028-29 school year.