DIXFIELD – It’s official. Dirigo High School now has an alpine ski team to complement its 11-member Nordic team. The alpine team, however, needs a coach.

Superintendent Thomas Ward said Tuesday that SAD 21 directors, who met Monday night, supported addition of a downhill skiing team. Directors also approved using a budgeted stipend of $546 to hire a coach, Ward said.

Eight Dirigo High School students had requested the right to compete in the sport this winter.

Directors also agreed to support and fund a Dirigo High School football program.

Directors also reviewed graduation requirements for the Class of 2008. Ward said freshmen will be required to meet Maine Learning Results standards and local requirements to earn a Dirigo High School diploma.

At 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9, parents of Dirigo High School freshmen are to meet with school officials in the student community center to learn about the requirements.