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Concussions

South Whidbey School District has mandated policies for, the Management of Concussions and Head Injuries as prescribed by HB 1824, Section 2 and Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness as prescribed by SB 5083, section 3.

SWSD Policy 3422:   STUDENT SPORTS — CONCUSSION AND HEAD INJURIES
The South Whidbey School Board of Directors recognizes that concussions and head injuries are commonly reported injuries in children and adolescents who participate in sports and other recreational activities. The Board acknowledges the risk of catastrophic injuries or death, are significant when a concussion or head injury is not properly evaluated and managed. Therefore, all competitive sport activities in the District will be identified by the administration. 

Consistent with Washington law, the District will utilize guidelines developed with the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) and other pertinent information and forms to inform and educate coaches, youth athletes, and their parents and/or guardians of the nature and risk of concussions or head injuries, including the dangers associated with continuing to play after a concussion or head injury.

Annually, the district will distribute a head injury and concussion information sheet to all parents and guardians of student participants in competitive sport activities. The parent/guardian and student must return a signed acknowledgement indicating that they have reviewed and understand the information provided before the student participates in any covered activity. Until this acknowledgement form is returned and on file with the District, the student may not practice or compete.

All coaches, including volunteers, will complete training as required in the District procedure. Additionally, all coaches of competitive sport activities will comply with WIAA guidelines for the management of head injuries and concussions.

Cross References:    Policy 4260               Use of School Facilities

Legal References:    RCW   28A.600         Students

                                 RCW   4.24.660         Liability of school districts under contract with youth programs.

Management Resources: Policy News, August 2009       Concussion and Head Injuries Legislation

First Reading:  June 27, 2012  Approved by the Board:  July 25, 2012