Duluth students asked school board members on Tuesday to save some of their after school programs. The decision to cut the extracurricular activities was made months ago.

Duluth School District ROTC members presented the colors in front of board members. They asked the district for an extension.

"I think they should keep it," said Courtney Crick, ROTC member. "Cutting the program is ridiculous. The program is great, I mean you learn so much."

Officials say the program will be given one more year, then it's slated to be cut altogether.

"I believe it is an extremely unwise decision," said Mathew Perry, ROTC member.

The district says a significant factor in cutting ROTC is money.

"It's our revenue to expense, we are receiving less dollars from the state--that naturally impacts all aspects of our business," said Joe Hill, Duluth Public Schools assistant superintendent.

The program is just one of many on the chopping block. Central's Freshmen football team will be tossed out and the Nordic ski team will combine with Denfeld's.

"Although challenging, I think we've been very thoughtful as to how these decisions are made," said Hill.

Students say the vital programs shouldn't be cut.

"We do so many things for community service, for veterans...just so much and then their just going to get rid of us," said Perry.

School officials say it's important to cut costs to remain efficient.

"Unfortunately the tentative phase-out of ROTC is probably necessary," said Tim Grover, Duluth School Board chair.

Students argue that the opportunity cost of getting rid of the program is too great.

"It's helped me become a better leader, I've become more active, I've gotten more in shape," said Perry.

The Nordic ski teams will practice under one coach, but will compete separately. As for freshmen Central football players, they will still have the opportunity to try out for varsity or junior varsity.