By most accounts, the merger of ISD 2142’s schools has gone relatively smoothly. It’s worth noting that fall sports programs played a key role in the success of this transition, which has reduced the number of secondary schools from seven to four.

Although ISD 2142 has always seemed to have at least a few teams that do well in the playoffs, this season was exceptional for the high caliber of teams. This was especially so in volleyball, with all four of the district’s teams —Cherry, North Woods, South Ridge and Northeast Range — proving to be legitimate contenders for the Section 7A championship. North Woods also enjoyed a remarkable football season, with a winning streak that extended from the start of the season to the championship game, where the Grizzlies were finally defeated.

Throughout the season, the sports teams helped to rally communities, where some residents still harbor resentment over the district’s restructuring plan. Even though critics and proponents of the district’s plan may not agree, they were able to set aside their differences as the school year began and cheer on their teams together.

It also clearly helped students adjust to their new reality as they helped select new school colors and mascots for their teams. And it gave them a shared sense of accomplishment that helped forge new bonds and new friendships as they worked together to become a team.

ISD 2142 co-athletic directors John Jirik and Scott Chiabotti said many of the district’s sports programs were on a downward track with enrollment numbers slipping. Combining programs at schools offered the best chance for success, they said.

But in addition to ensuring the survival of valued programs, the merger also put increased importance on achievement. When teams just needed the raw numbers, students weren’t always challenged to earn a spot on the roster. Now that student-athletes have to compete for playing time, it requires more effort and determination. They can’t just take it for granted. That’s a valuable lesson that has application far beyond the playing field or gymnasium.

That’s not to say that the district’s restructuring plan is without its flaws. The operational savings that voters were promised and that were key to the plan’s passage have yet to materialize. And there are troubling signs that the restructuring of the district might actually increase operating costs with additional dollars needed for transporting students, and to operate independent water and sewage systems at the two large new schools.

Meanwhile, the jury is still out on whether the restructuring will produce significant gains in education. Although school officials tout new program additions such as the flex Wednesday class offerings and the increased investment in technology, those improvements were not dependent upon passage of a $78.8 million bond issue.

Nevertheless, these and other concerns should not detract from the challenge we face now in bringing students from different schools and communities together. If the fall sports season is any indication, students have made the commitment to forge a new team. The adults in their lives need to be prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead as a new team, as well.