CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT
The Board of Education recognizes that concussions and head injuries are the most commonly reported injuries in children and adolescents who participate in sports and recreational activities, and can have serious consequences if not managed carefully. Therefore, the District adopts the following policy and guidelines to assist in the proper evaluation and management of head injuries.
Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury. Concussion occurs when normal brain function is disrupted by a blow or jolt to the head. Recovery from concussion will vary. Avoiding re-injury and over-exertion until fully recovered are the cornerstones of proper concussion management. While district staff will exercise reasonable care to protect students, head injuries may still occur. Physical education teachers, coaches, athletic trainers, nurses and other appropriate staff will receive training to recognize the signs, symptoms and behaviors consistent with a concussion.
Any student demonstrating signs and symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion while participating in a school-sponsored class, extracurricular activity, or interscholastic athletic activity, shall be removed from the game, activity and class (if appropriate), and be evaluated as soon as possible by an appropriate health care professional. The District shall notify the student’s parents or guardians and recommend appropriate monitoring to parents or guardians.
The student should not return to school or activity until released by an appropriate health care professional. The school physician will be responsible for the final decision on return to activity, including academic classes, physical education class and after-school physical activities and interscholastic athletics. Any student who continues to have signs or symptoms upon return to activity must be removed from play or class and re-evaluated by their health care provider.
The Superintendent, in concert with the Athletic Director, medical professionals, certified athletic trainers, and appropriate staff members, shall develop regulations to implement this policy.
Concussion Management and Awareness Act
8 NYCRR §§135.4(c)(4); 135.4(c)(7) (i)
Education Law §8351
NOTE: Refer also to Policies # 7510 — School Health Services
Adopted December 12, 2023