EPHRATA – The Ephrata School District Board approved a motion to purchase a new pole vault pit for track and field students. The district has not replaced the pit for around 20 to 25 years. 

“It's just in need of replacement,” said Bryan Johnson, Ephrata High athletic director and assistant principal. “We've known this for a few years, and I think we got the last season. We should probably use that for safety reasons. It is a liability. It is not in good condition. The district can be at fault for that, so it's in need of being replaced.” 

Ephrata School District Superintendent Ken Murray said the track and field coach and program did a good job of maintaining and caring for the old one and that’s why it was used for so many years.  

“Brian, I would just commend you and your coaching staff,” said Murray. “Being a former athletic director, getting 25 years out of a pole vault pit is not common, and it's a testament to the work of your coaches, the kids and your leadership in terms of maintenance and protection. When you think about the expense, it's not cheap, but if we can keep it for 25 years, it's about $1,000 a year for a ton of kids who use it all season long, it seems like a pretty good investment.” 

The lowest quote the district has received for the new equipment is $26,000. The board passed the motion to buy the new pole vault pit unanimously.