Student Barred From Using Wheelchair At Cross-Country Race

TURNER, Maine - The Maine Principals' Association is barring a high school cross-country athlete from competing in his wheelchair at the state meet.Throughout the season, Leavitt High School sophomore Jonathan Schomaker has competed alongside runners and has even recorded a 7-minute mile.
 
He appealed to compete in the state championship, but the MPA denied his appeal.
 
MPA officials said there are safety concerns with the state championship race course, and they don't plan to alter the course. They fear Jonathan could get stuck or run into other athletes.
 
Schomaker said he trains every day with his high school team. He said he'll be traveling to the state meet to support his team and to send a message to the MPA.