The Butler School District isn't entering uncharted territory by its decision to permit corporate sponsorships for its athletic fields.

In 2006, the Seneca Valley School District sold the naming rights to Raiders Stadium to NexTier Bank for $50,000 for 10 years. And, as school districts in this county continue to experience money challenges, more are likely to follow in Seneca Valley's and Butler's footsteps.

There's nothing wrong with corporate entities' involvement in these school facilities, or for those entities being recognized during announcements at sporting events. Their generosity displays their school spirit, as well as their interest in keeping their name out before the public.

The Butler School Board has decided that a committee of community members and school board members will seek people to buy the naming rights to a yet-to-be-constructed baseball field, press box and concession stand. That committee also will look for companies that want to have their logos displayed on the spirit stands or on the junior high softball scoreboard.

Money raised by way of the venture will be added to the $1.9 million the district has budgeted to renovate the football field complex, including turf installation.

The district also is considering improvements to the girls softball field and will build a baseball field.

The athletic fields proposal indicates that Art Bernardi Stadium is outdated, including not being handicapped accessible. Also, concession and restroom facilities have been deemed inadequate.

It's appropropriate that those who step forward in this approach new to the district receive, in addition to a sign, some additional perks such as several season tickets, a parking permit and an advertisement in the football program. Over the long run, the corporate sponsorships could save taxpayers a considerable amount of money. As important, they also might allow the district to embark on projects that otherwise might have to be delayed for years.

A gauge of school spirit in the Butler district will be how many corporate sponsors come forward