Wood River Rural Schools

Activities Handbook

Rules and Regulations

2025 - 2026

Table of Contents

Section 1: General Information About The Activities Program

Section 2: Available Activities

Section 3: Code Of Conduct

Section 4: Extracurricular Drug Testing Program

Section 5: Concussion Information

Section 7: Coach/Sponsor Directory

Section 8: Title IX Policy

Section 9: Forms

Introduction

Student participation in extracurricular activities has been linked to improved attendance, higher academic achievement, and greater student self-confidence and self-esteem. Wood River Rural Schools provides students with the opportunity to participate in a comprehensive activities program that includes athletics, fine arts, and select clubs or organizations associated with academic areas.

Although the school district believes strongly in the value of student activities, participation in the activities program is a privilege, not a right.  Students must obey the rules set out in this handbook and any additional rules created by their coach or activity sponsor.  This handbook is advisory and does not create a “contract” with parents, students, or staff.  The administration reserves the right to make decisions and make rule revisions at any time to implement the educational program and to assure the well-being of all students.  The administration is responsible for interpreting the rules contained in the handbook.  If a situation or circumstance arises that is not specifically covered in this handbook, the administration will make a decision based upon all applicable school district policies, and state and federal statutes and regulations.

Please read this handbook carefully.  Students and their parents are responsible for complying with all of the rules and procedures detailed in this booklet.  

Parents must sign the acknowledgement and permission to participate form at the end of this handbook before their student will be permitted to participate in the activity programs of the district.  

The provisions in this handbook are subject to change at the sole discretion of the Board of Education.  From time to time, you may receive updated information concerning changes in the handbook.  These updates should be kept within the handbook so that it is up to date.  If you have any questions regarding this handbook, please contact the Superintendent for assistance.

Philosophy

This program is designed to provide wholesome opportunities for those students who desire competitive activity. Each student participating in the activities program should:

1. Consider all opponents as guests when participating at home and treat them with all the courtesy due friends.

2. Accept the decision of officials without question.

3. Never use abusive or irritating remarks.

4. Applaud good sportsmanship from opponents and teammates.

5. Strive for victory through fair play according to the rules of the game.

6. Love the game for its own sake--not for what winning may bring them through publicity.

7. Do everything possible to encourage enthusiasm for the game and courtesy and respect for the players, coaches, and fans.

8 Win without boasting and lose without excuses.

9. Do all within their power to make the entire activities program something of which we will always be proud.

Any boy or girl is welcome to try out for any of the activities group available to them providing they meet the requirements established by the Nebraska State Activities Association and the school and they agree to follow the guidelines established in this booklet.

The guidelines established herein for the activities programs were developed by the cooperative efforts of participants, coaching staff, administration and the board of education. They are revised each year with input from each of the before mentioned groups and are indicative of what should be accomplished in an activities program.

A great tradition is not built overnight - it takes the hard work and dedication of many individuals over many years. As a member of an activities group, the student participant has certain responsibilities to uphold.

Our tradition has been to succeed so that honor comes to our community, our school, and our participants. Such a tradition is worthy of the best efforts of all concerned, the followers, the coach-sponsors, the participant and the student body. We will always try to excel. In doing so, we will always maintain respect for our school, our opponents, and most of all, ourselves.

By participating in the activities program, we hope that all participants are able to derive some of the individual values and benefits of the program. We will do this with emphasis in “sportsmanship” and fostering good character by teaching, enforcing, advocating and modeling the principles of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship.

1. Responsibilities to yourself We like to think of any participant as being someone special in that certain responsibilities are imposed on him/her. A participant is one who accepts these responsibilities and broadens him or herself and develops strength of character. Participants owe it to themselves to get the greatest possible good from their school experiences; their studies and their participation in the activities program. You owe it to yourself to always do whatever you do in life to the best and fullest of your ability.

2. Responsibilities to the school By being a participant, you have the responsibility to your school to always do your best and always follow the guidelines set forth. By being a participant, you are representing your school and your community.

You automatically assume a leadership role when you are part of an activities group. The student body and citizens of the Wood River School district know you. You are on the stage with the spotlight on you. The student body, the community, and other communities judge our school on your conduct and attitudes, both on and off the field. Because of this leadership role, you can contribute to our school spirit and community image. Make your school proud of you and your community proud of your school by your performance and your devotion to high ideals. The younger students are watching you. They will imitate you in many ways. Do not let them down, give them high ideals to copy.

3. Responsibility of the coaching-sponsor staff Our coach-sponsors should feel that they have the responsibility to give the school district the best possible group with the available talent each year. Our coach-sponsors should be dedicated to this fact. To succeed will always be furthest in the coach-sponsors mind, but they should be well aware of what must be done to succeed in the proper manner. Following our philosophy of the importance of sportsmanship and good character, coaches will emphasize, discuss and demonstrate to their athletes the qualities of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and good citizenship.

Notice of Nondiscrimination

The school district does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.  The school district prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity in any education program or activity that it operates.  

Students who believe that they have been the subject of unlawful discrimination or harassment due to their disability, or that have other related concerns or questions, should contact the Section 504 Coordinator:  Chris Pietrzak at (308)583-2249, cpietrzak@wrrsd.org or in person at school.  

Students who believe that they have been the subject of unlawful discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex, or that have other related concerns or questions, should contact the following Title IX Coordinator:  Scott Hirchert at (308)583-2249, shirchert@wrrsd.org, 13800 West Wood River Rd.,Wood River, NE 68883 or in person at school.  The School District’s specific Notice of Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex may be accessed at the following link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11h8nPgqv_UZby1RMGH68MhWcfsx44znz3SzMRzHbqpk/edit

Students who believe that they have been the subject of unlawful discrimination or harassment due to their race, color, or national origin, or that have other related concerns or questions, should contact the following Title VI Coordinator: Terry Zessin at (308)583-2249, tzissin@wrrsd.org, 13800 West Wood River Rd., Wood River, NE 68883 or in person at school.

Students who believe that they have been the subject of any other unlawful discrimination or harassment should contact the Wood River High School Office at (308)583-2249, shirchert@wrrsd.org or cpietrzak@wrrsd.org or in person at  school.  Students may report discrimination or harassment to any staff member who will then forward it on to the appropriate coordinator or administrator.  The staff member will follow school district policies to respond to the report.

For additional prohibited discrimination and related information, please review school district Policy 3053 – Nondiscrimination.

 SECTION 1:

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE ACTIVITIES PROGRAM

Academic Eligibility

To be eligible to participate in the school’s activity programs, each student must (1) meet Nebraska State Activities Association (NSAA) requirements concerning scholastic eligibility, (2) attendance meet the requirements of board policy including all rules applicable to the activity, and (3) have not less than a 70% grade in two or more classes for a period of one week to remain eligible to participate in any portion of the activities program.  Participants must attend practices and participate in all conditioning during any period of ineligibility.

Eligibility will be determined on a weekly basis, Tuesday morning to Tuesday morning.  Students declared ineligible will remain ineligible for a one week period. The school district will notify a participant and his or her parents whenever the participant is declared academically ineligible.  

Students may not participate in any activity, performance or practice while serving a short-term suspension, long-term suspension, or expulsion from school.

Attendance at Practices and Contests

Participants in the activities program are expected to attend and be on time at all practices and meetings scheduled by the coach or sponsor.  Participants may be excused for absences resulting from a participant’s illness, a death in the family, a doctor’s appointment, a court appearance, or other absences that are arranged in advance.  The coach, sponsor, or director of an activity may require a participant who has an excused absence to complete an alternate assignment for missing a practice, meeting, event, performance, or contest.  A participant who is unable to attend a scheduled practice, meeting, or game must contact the coach or sponsor in advance.  Students who are absent from school due to illness are not required to provide the coach or sponsor with additional notification of the student’s absence from practice.  

Students who are not in attendance by 11:30 a.m. will not be permitted to practice or participate in an athletic contest or activity performance unless the student has the coach and building administrator’s prior permission to participate despite the absence.  In cases of early dismissal or early departure for an activity, failure to attend on that day may result in a student being withheld from participating in the activity.

If a participant misses a scheduled contest or performance, the coach or sponsor may impose discipline up to and including suspension of the participant from the activity for the remainder of the season or length of the activity.  

Closings

Unless the administration determines that it is permissible for the activity to continue as scheduled, all activities will be canceled or postponed in the event that school has been called off for inclement weather or any other reason as determined by the administration.  Unless the administration determines that it is permissible for the activity to continue as scheduled.

Colors

The Wood River Rural School colors are purple and white.

Complaint Procedure

To reduce conflicts in the school’s activities program, students and/or their parents should use the district's formal complaint procedure to manage conflicts about the program.  The complaint procedure is printed in the school’s student handbook and may be found on the district’s web site: https://www.woodrivereagles.org/

Concussion Awareness

The Nebraska Unicameral has found that concussions are one of the “most commonly reported injuries in children and adolescents who participate in sports and recreational activities and that the risk of catastrophic injury or death is significant when a concussion or brain injury is not properly evaluated and managed.”

The School District will:

1. Require all coaches and trainers to complete a training course approved by the Chief Medical Officer on how to recognize the symptoms of a concussion or brain injury and how to seek proper medical treatment for a concussion or brain injury:

2. On an annual basis provide concussion and brain injury information to students and their parents or guardians prior to such students initiating practice or competition (See Section Six).  This information will include:

1. The signs and symptoms of a concussion;
2. The risks posed by sustaining a concussion; and
3. The actions a student should take in response to sustaining a concussion, including the notification of his or her coaches.

A student who participates on a school athletic team must be removed from a practice or game when he/she is reasonably suspected of having sustained a concussion or brain injury in such practice or game after observation by a coach or a licensed health care professional who is professionally affiliated with or contracted by the school.  The student will not be permitted to participate in any school supervised team athletic activities involving physical exertion, including practices or games, until the student:

1. has been evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional;

2. has received written and signed clearance to resume participation in athletic activities from the licensed healthcare professional; and

3. has submitted the written and signed clearance to resume participation in athletic activities to the school accompanied by written permission to resume participation from the student’s parent or guardian.

If a student is reasonably suspected after observation of having sustained a concussion or brain injury and is removed from an athletic activity, the parent or guardian of the student will be notified by the school of:

1. the date and approximate time of the injury suffered by the student,

2. the signs and symptoms of a concussion or brain injury that were observed, and

3. any actions taken to treat the student.

The school district will not provide for the presence of a licensed health care professional at any practice or game.

School officials shall deem the signature of an individual who represents that he/she is a licensed health care professional on a written clearance to resume participation that is provided to the school to be conclusive and reliable evidence that the individual who signed the clearance is a licensed healthcare professional.  The school will not take any additional or independent steps to verify the individual’s qualifications.

Dances

School dances are part of the district’s extracurricular activity program.  Students who wish to participate in school dances must comply with the activity code.  Students may be prohibited from participating in school dances as a consequence for violating school rules or these activity rules.

Students are expected to be in the building within 30 minutes after the start of the event.

Guests must be under the age of 21.  Guests who are not Wood River students must be pre-approved by the principal before the night of the dance.  They must be able to present a picture ID.  

Junior High/Middle School Dances

Junior high/middle school (6-8) dances are restricted to students currently enrolled in the junior high school and will be sponsored by junior high teachers and parents.  Any organization wishing to sponsor a junior high dance must obtain permission from the principal regarding date and times.  Each dance must be sponsored by at least two faculty members and one additional adult couple.  Once admitted to the dance, students must remain until the close of the dance.  Students who leave the dance will not be readmitted.  Students who are academically ineligible will not be allowed to attend school dances. 

High School Dances (Winter Ball, Homecoming, etc.)

All high school dances are restricted to 9th-12th grade High School students and their guests.  Any organization wishing to sponsor a dance must obtain permission from the principal regarding date and times.  Each dance must be sponsored by at least two faculty members and one additional adult couple.  Once admitted to the dance, students must remain until the close of the dance.  Students who leave the dance will not be readmitted.  Students who are academically ineligible will not be allowed to attend school dances.

Homecoming will be organized by National Honors Society students and sponsors.  Winter Ball will be organized by Spirit Club students and sponsors.

Prom

The Junior/Senior Prom is open to students and guests of the Wood River High School junior and senior classes.  Guests must follow all rules that the students must follow.  Each student is responsible for his/her guest's conduct.  Appropriate attire is required for these dances.

Prom will be organized by the Junior class and sponsors.  

Royalty

Students eligible for royalty must be in good standing (academically eligible and meets the student handbook and code of conduct requirements).  Homecoming and Prom royalty will consist of seniors only.  Winter Ball royalty consist of students from grades 9 - 12.  Homecoming royalty (king and queen) will be crowned at the end of the football game, and dance will follow. Winter Ball will elect a king and queen from the senior class, and then prince and princess from each remaining three classes.  Students that have been Winter Ball royalty in previous years, or the current years Homecoming king and queen, will not be eligible.  Winter Ball royalty will be announced at the dance at approximately 8:00 pm, dance following.  Seniors that were elected to Homecoming or Winter Ball royalty are ineligible for Prom royalty.  Prom royalty (king and queen) will be announced at the dance at approximately 8:30 pm, dance following.    

Electronic Communication

The school board supports the use of technology by coaches, extracurricular sponsors, and other staff members to communicate with students for legitimate educational, extracurricular, and other school-related purposes.  However, electronic communication between students and teachers, sponsors, and coaches shall be appropriate at all times and shall not violate any law, district policies, or the Regulations and Standards for Professional Practices Criteria, commonly known as Rule 27 of the Nebraska Department of Education (“Rule 27”).  Please see the Social Media Policy For School District Employees for further explanation.

Equipment

Each participant in the athletic portion of the activities program will be issued a locker to store his/her personal belongings and school equipment that has been checked out.  Students should secure their athletic lockers with combination locks.

School-owned clothing or equipment that is checked out to individual students remains the property of the school.  The clothing or equipment is not to be used or worn by the student except for the intended use.  Each piece of equipment or clothing is to be returned to the instructor or coach when the season or the use for such clothing or equipment is over.  Each participant is responsible for all equipment checked out to him/her.  Students will be assessed the replacement cost for school equipment that has been checked out to him/her and is lost or stolen.

Fundraising

All school-sponsored fundraising activities must be approved by a member of the school district administration.  Fundraising for any activity must comply with the district’s policies, including applicable provisions specifically pertaining to Booster Clubs and PTOs for non-school-sponsored fundraising.  Use of the school mascot shall not be permitted unless approved by the superintendent.  

Individual Training Rules and Rules of Conduct

Head coaches or sponsors may develop additional training rules or rules of conduct for their activity.  Students are responsible for knowing these rules and complying with them.

Initiations and Hazing

Initiations and hazing by members of classes, clubs, athletic teams, or any other organization affiliated with the district are prohibited except as otherwise permitted by this policy.  Any student engaging in hazing or non-approved initiations is subject to discipline as permitted by policy and law.

Initiations are defined as any ritualistic expectations, requirements, or activities placed upon new members of a school organization for the purpose of admission into the organization, even if those activities do not rise to the level of “hazing” as defined below.  Initiations are prohibited except by permission of the superintendent.  

Hazing is defined as any activity by which a person intentionally or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health or safety of an individual for the purpose of initiation into, admission into, affiliation with, or continued membership in any school organization.  Hazing activities include, but are not limited to, whipping, beating, branding, an act of sexual penetration, an exposure of the genitals of the body done with the intent to affront or alarm any person, a lewd fondling or caressing of the body of another person, forced and prolonged calisthenics, prolonged exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug, or harmful substance not generally intended for human consumption, prolonged sleep deprivation, or any brutal treatment or the performance of any unlawful act that endangers the physical or mental health or safety of any person.

Injuries

Participants who suffer any type of injury while involved in extracurricular activities must notify the coach or sponsor immediately.  The coach or sponsor will then evaluate the injury and, if necessary, notify the participant’s parents or seek immediate medical treatment.

If at any time during participation a doctor removes an athlete from participation because of an illness or injury, the athlete must have a written release from a doctor before participating again.  The written release must be given to the coach or sponsor of the activity.  

Note: The release requirement will be satisfied if the initial doctor’s order specifies the duration of the student's restriction from participation and/or competition.  Also see Concussion Awareness above.

Insurance

The school district does not provide medical or other insurance coverage for students who participate in athletic contests or other activities.  It is the parents’ responsibility to provide adequate insurance to cover any medical expenses that may be incurred while the student is participating in athletics or other activities.

Lettering Requirements

The following guidelines will be used in determining students’ eligibility for lettering:

Football:                

1. Average one quarter of participation in each varsity contest.

2. A senior who has been a member of the team for four years.

3. In the event of a season ending injury, average quarters of all games

 played will be used.

Volleyball:

To be eligible an athlete must participate in 60% of the varsity sets during the regular season, conference and district tournament.  The set requirement may be waived, if an athlete is on the varsity team and has contributed significantly to the team.  This decision will be made by the head coach.  

Cross Country:

l. The athlete may letter by being one of the first four runners in two or

more scheduled varsity contests;

2. Medal in any regular season varsity meet, Conference, or District meets;

3. Placing in the top 25 and participating in 85% of the meets. District and

State not included in percentage;

4. And/or qualifying for state as an individual or as a team. The above

requirements can be waived in the case of an athlete who has contributed a great deal to the team. In all cases, the athlete must have the coaches’ recommendation

Basketball:

To be eligible, an athlete must average one quarter of participation for each game played. This requirement can be waived at the coach’s discretion.

Wrestling (Boys/Girls): 

The athlete may letter by:

1. Must have a total of 40 points, forfeits do not count. Points as follows:

(a) 2 points to compete-loss situation only (b) 3 points for win by decision-4 points for major-and 5 for technical fall (c) 6 points for win by pin (d) Points for varsity and junior varsity are combined, with at least 20 points being at the varsity level.

2. Must attend all varsity events. Exceptions:(a) family emergencies,

funerals (b) therapy (c) illness verified by the coach (d) all other circumstances evaluated by the head coach.

3. The athlete may not have more than five absences from practice. Illness

(that requires absence from school) and emergencies are exceptions. The coaches will individually evaluate all other absences.

4. Must have a total of AT LEAST ten service hours. Service hours are any

time spent bettering the wrestling program. The easiest way to accumulate these is coaching our kids club. Each practice is two hours long; therefore, it only takes five practices to accumulate the ten hours. The coach records these hours and any athlete not reaching their ten hours will not receive a letter.

5. Athletes must complete the season in good standing. Anyone who meets

lettering criteria, but quits the team before the end of the season, will NOT receive a letter. The coach will take into account special situations such as transfer, injuries, and senior members of the squad. Coaches retain the right to give the final recommendation for an athlete to receive a letter

Golf:        

The athlete may letter by being one of the first five golfers (varsity) in one or more of the scheduled varsity matches. This requirement can be waived in the case of an athlete who has contributed a great deal to the team. In all cases, the athlete must have the coach’s recommendation.

Track:        

The athlete may letter by averaging 1.5 points per meet scheduled and participating in over 50% of the scheduled meets (district and state not included), placing in an individual event at a major meet (4 or more teams) or by being a member of a relay team which places third or higher in a major meet (4 or more teams). These requirements can be waived in the case of an athlete who has contributed a great deal to the team. In all cases, the athlete must have the coach’s recommendation. Coaches will deviate from this somewhat depending on the type of meets that are scheduled during the year.

SOCCER:

1. Playing in 50% of the halves plus one half.  (If we play thirteen

games, an athlete must play in 14 halves).

2. Finishing the season in good standing.

3. Upon coach’s recommendations,  (injuries, etc.).

4. At the discretion of the coach

Cheer:

1. Finishing the season in good standing.

2. At the discretion of the coach.

Dance: 

1. Letters will be awarded on the basis of daily contribution to the team for the entire season.  
2. Attitude and performance as reflected in both practices and performances will be considered.  
3. Dancers should strive to improve, contribute talent, display pride, have a positive attitude, display energy and enthusiasm at all events/competitions, and work toward mutual success.

Student Managers:

The student manager must complete the season and have the recommendation of the head coach of the sport involved.

Other Information Regarding Lettering: 

1. All requirements are based on varsity competition only.

2. A letter winner may be a member of the Letter Club.

Instrumental and Vocal Music:

1. Participants must have a current average of 93% or better, and have had a 93% or better for the previous 3 quarters.  Criteria for earning an “A” are posted in the music room and/or are available from the instructor.
2. Participants must demonstrate high quality rehearsal and performance habits, exhibit and encourage a positive attitude toward the music program, and demonstrate strong positive leadership skills.
3. Participants must attend all scheduled rehearsals, performances, and contests unless previously excused by the director.
4. Participants who have one “B” in any one of the previous 3 quarters may, at the discretion of the director, be allowed to make up for the “B” by earning 20 points in the fourth quarter.  A list of approved activities and corresponding point values is available from the director.
5. Participants with any quarter of a “C” or more than one quarter with a “B” will not be eligible to letter in the activity.

Speech:

The criteria for receiving a letter for Speech Competition will be based on the participant’s commitment to preparation and participation.  In order to letter, a participant must earn a minimum of 200 points.  Points can be earned in the following ways:

1. Practice / Rehearsal with Speech Coach - up to 10 points per practice session; extemporaneous speakers must verify prep time equivalent to 10 practice sessions.
2. Performance - 20 points for performing at each speech meet, including invitationals, conference, district, and state.  
3. If a participant attends a meet but scratches for any reason, no points will be earned and 10 points will be deducted from his/her point total.  
4. If a participant does not show up for a meet for which he/she has been entered, 50 points will be deducted from his/her point total unless a parent or guardian has notified the Speech Coach with a valid excuse for the reason that the participant missed the meet.
5. If one person of an OID or Duet Acting group does not attend a meet for which he/she has been entered, he or she will lose 10 points.  The remaining members of the group will be awarded 10 points for attendance even though they cannot perform.
6. Novice speech team members will earn 10 points for attending speech meets with the team, even though they are not competing, providing they support and encourage team members by watching their events.
7. Any participant who is reprimanded by a contest director for improper behavior at a speech meet will be penalized 50 points.  If this happens more than once during any part of the season, the participant will be removed from the team.  Parents of removed team members will be notified of the removal and the reasons for the removal.

Locker and Dressing Room Use/Supervision

All participants will be under the direct supervision of the coach or sponsor in charge. A participant must not linger in these rooms, be rowdy or endanger the safety of others. All cases of misconduct will be dealt with by the coach or sponsor in charge. Participants are to always respect all equipment and supplies in these rooms. Offices and equipment rooms are off-limits to all participants except authorized student helpers. Exception: When the participant is asked to enter for a conference by the coach or sponsor.

• Cell phones and other devices with visual or auditory recording capability may not be used in the locker room at any time or for any reason.
• By allowing their students to participate in an activity with a cross-gender coach, parents/guardians consent to the entry of the staff member or his or her designee into the locker room at any time as necessary to maintain student safety and order.  
• Students are not allowed to enter or reenter the locker room without appropriate supervision.

Mascot

The official emblem for boys’ and girls’ athletic teams is the Eagles. The mascot cannot be used for non-school-sponsored purposes unless approved by the superintendent.

Practices

The individual head coach or sponsor, in cooperation with the high school principal, will schedule all starting times of practices.  All participants are expected to be ready at the time set by the coach or sponsor.

To be eligible to practice, a participant must satisfy the following requirements:

1. Submit to the coach or sponsor a signed physical form and Activities Code that verifies that a physical examination has been completed and that the student and parent(s) understand the school’s position regarding the use or possession of alcohol, tobacco, and other related drugs.
2. Furnish the high school principal with proof of insurance.
3. Sign and agree to participate in the drug and alcohol screening. (See Section Five)
4. Sign NSAA form

Secret Organizations

Secret organizations are prohibited.  School officials shall not allow any person or representative of any such organization to enter upon school grounds or school buildings for the purpose of rushing or soliciting students to participate in any secret fraternity, society, or association.

Student Manager, Helpers, or Activity Aids

Students wishing to serve as student volunteers for extracurricular activities must gain the permission of the activity coach or sponsor.  Student volunteers must comply with all of the rules and procedures contained in this handbook.  

Sunday and Wednesday Night Activities

In order to provide students sufficient time away from school for family-related activities, the school will endeavor not to schedule activities on Wednesday evenings or on Sundays.  Wednesday evening has been set aside for church activities and no senior high activity will take place after 6:30 p.m.  An exception to this guideline would be when a team, group of students, or an individual may be required to participate in an activity sponsored by the conference, district, or state on a Wednesday night.

The school does not allow Sunday practice sessions, except when a varsity team, group of students, or individual is scheduled to compete or perform on a Monday.  Practices scheduled for a Sunday must have the prior approval of the activities director or building principal.

Transportation

All participants are expected to ride to and from away activities by means of approved school transportation.  

A participant may ride home with his or her parent/guardian only if the parent/guardian personally contacts the sponsor at the activity.  A participant may ride home with an adult if the participant’s parent/guardian has personally contacted the principal prior to the activity and the adult personally contacts the sponsor at the activity prior to leaving with the student.  Parents are discouraged from requesting to take their children home after an away contest or performance.  Travel to and from an event provides time for the students to further develop a strong team concept.  

Weight Room / Gym Use

The weight room and gyms have been developed to help each athlete, student, or adult in the community maintain a level of physical fitness.  No one may use the weight room or gym equipment without proper supervision.  Proper supervision is having an adult 19 years of age or older present at all times.  The school will develop a schedule for use of the weight room by athletes during the school year and during the summer months.

The weight room and gym are high demand areas within the school facilities.  The following guidelines will help determine the priorities in reference to use if more than one group desires to use the facility at the same time:

1.        Physical education instruction

2.        By the team sports, which are in season

3.        Conditioning programs for athletes not currently out for a sport

4.        Summer conditioning programs

5.        Adult education

SECTION 2:

AVAILABLE ACTIVITIES

Athletic Teams

Basketball (boys and girls)

Bowling (boys and girls)

Cross County (boys and girls)

Football

Golf (boys and girls)

Track (boys and girls)

Soccer (boys and girls)

Softball

Volleyball

Wrestling (boys and girls)

Band/Vocal

The school district sponsors marching band, pep band, and jazz band in addition to concert band.  Participants must be enrolled in band class in order to be eligible to participate in these groups.  

Cheer Squad

Participants are selected by the sponsor(s) or judges appointed by the sponsor.  Members of the cheer squad will attend all home and selected away athletic contests.

Dance Squad

The dance team is made up of unique individuals for a group effort of success.  We need one another to develop physically, psychologically, and socially as well as for having fun and achieving our goals.  This requires work, dedication, cooperation, positive attitudes, teamwork, and good sportsmanship.

One Act

The Drama Club is open to all students interested in any aspect of theater and offers varying levels of involvement.  The main focus of this club is to produce the fall and spring plays, and the winter musical (in cooperation with the Vocal Music Department).          

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

FBLA is an integral part of the vocational business department and membership is limited to those students with at least one semester of work in the business education field.  One of the primary objectives of FBLA is developing leadership and responsibility.

Future Farmers of America (FFA)

FFA is an integral part of the agricultural education department and all students of that department are urged to belong.  The activities include training in leadership, opportunities for travel and recreation, and safety and community service activities.  Students may participate in field trips, conventions, judging contests, and hands-on experience.

Letter Club

Any student who has lettered in any sport is eligible for membership.  The purpose of the Club is to stimulate and encourage sportsmanship and to assist in bringing about a closer bond between students in all sports.

National Honor Society

The National Honor Society is a national organization that recognizes student character, scholarship, leadership, and service to the school.

Student members shall be selected from the junior and senior classes by the high school faculty.  Ten percent of the Junior and Senior classes will be selected each year.  The results of the selection will be announced at an honors convocation.

[Include any other information regarding your specific Honor Society chapter/program as you deem appropriate.  The National Association recommends several details be included about your program in the National Honor Society Handbook.]

Student Government (Student Lighthouse)

The purpose of student government is to arouse the spirit of loyalty toward the school, to promote good citizenship, to sponsor school activities, to extend the spirit of good fellowship throughout the student body, to foster a spirit of cooperation between the students and faculty, and to seek to develop a spirit of cooperation, good will, and better understanding with other schools.  The organization, operation, and scope of the student government shall be administered by the Superintendent or designee.

Spanish Club

The Spanish Club is designed to give students an opportunity to develop their knowledge of different Spanish speaking cultures.  Members of the club are also interested in becoming involved with the Spanish speaking community in the area.

Speech Team

Students compete in 12 different categories of competition.  These include debate, current events speaking, and several theater-type acting events.

Journalism

The yearbook is published by the Journalism class along with the help of its teacher.  The annual is financed partially by funds raised from the sale of the books.  

Multicultural Club

The multicultural club is open to any Wood River MS/HS  student who is interested in learning more about the cultural diversity in our school.

SECTION 3:

CODE OF CONDUCT

All students associated with Wood River Rural Schools and participating in extracurricular or school sponsored activities (including all NSAA activities) are required to avoid conduct that is detrimental to the integrity of, and public confidence in, the school.  Rules promoting lawful, ethical, and responsible conduct serve the interests of all people associated with the school.  Illegal and irresponsible conduct puts people at risk, tarnishes the reputation of the offender and everyone else associated with the school, and undermines the public support and respect of the school district.  

        Standard of Conduct.  Participation in school-sponsored or extracurricular activities is a privilege and not a right.  Participants must follow board policy, this code, and all the training rules and rules of conduct of the coaches and/or activity sponsors.  Students participating in school-sponsored or extracurricular activities are held to a high standard.  Students are expected to conduct themselves in a way that is lawful, responsible, promotes the values upon which the school is based, and that brings credit to themselves and the school.  Students who fail to live up to the required standard of conduct are guilty of detrimental conduct and subject to discipline under all school policies, the general student code of conduct, and these Activity Participation Rules.

        Coach and Sponsor Rules.  Coaches and/or activity sponsors shall establish training rules or rules of conduct for participation in or attendance at the activity or event.  General training rules or rules of conduct shall be established prior to the activity or event.  This Code shall control in the event that there is a conflict with coach or sponsor rules.

        Prohibited Conduct.  Students in school-sponsored and/or extracurricular activities may not engage in the following conduct:

1. Receipt of a criminal citation by law enforcement for any reason.
2. Conviction of a crime in adult court or the adjudication of a criminal charge in juvenile court.
3. Any behavior that is illegal under the laws of Nebraska or the United States of America regardless of whether it results in a criminal charge or conviction.
4. Any conduct that substantially interferes with the educational process or disrupts the activity or event.
5. Possession, consumption, use, distribution, or being under the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs, tobacco, controlled substances, or any lookalike or imitations thereof; or being in the presence of alcohol, illicit drugs, controlled substances, or any lookalike or imitations thereof that are being possessed, consumed, used, or distributed by any person under twenty-one (21) years of age without parental supervision.    "Lookalike or imitations" means substances such as K2 and products like electronic nicotine delivery systems, vapor pens, etc.  (Note:  the term “under the influence” for school purposes has a less strict meaning than it does under criminal law; for school purposes, the term means any level of impairment and includes even the odor of alcohol on the breath or person of a student; also, it includes being impaired by reason of the use or abuse of any substance for the purpose of inducing a condition of intoxication, stupefaction, depression, giddiness, paralysis, inebriation, excitement, or irrational behavior, or in any manner changing, distorting, or disturbing the auditory, visual, mental, or nervous processes).
6. Engaging in initiations, defined as any ritualistic expectations, requirements, or activities placed upon new members of a school organization for the purpose of admission into the organization, even if those activities do not rise to the level of “hazing” as defined below.  Initiations are prohibited except by permission of the superintendent.
7. Engaging in hazing as defined by state law and this policy.  Hazing is defined as any activity by which a person intentionally or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health or safety of an individual for the purpose of initiation into, admission into, affiliation with, or continued membership in any school organization.  Under state criminal law, hazing activities include, but are not limited to, whipping, beating, branding, an act of sexual penetration, an exposure of the genitals of the body done with the intent to affront or alarm any person, a lewd fondling or caressing of the body of another person, forced and prolonged calisthenics, prolonged exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug, or harmful substance not generally intended for human consumption, prolonged sleep deprivation, or any brutal treatment or the performance of any unlawful act that endangers the physical or mental health or safety of any person. For purposes of school rules, hazing also includes any activity expected of someone joining a group, team, or activity that humiliates, degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm, regardless of the person's willingness to participate; personal servitude; restrictions on personal hygiene; yelling, swearing and insulting new members/rookies; being forced to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire in public; consumption of vile substances or smearing of such on one's skin; binge drinking and drinking games; sexual simulation and sexual assault.  
8. Bullying which shall include cyber-bullying, defined as the use of the internet, including but not limited to social networking sites such as Facebook, cell phones or other devices to send, post, or text message images and material intended to hurt or embarrass another person.  This may include, but is not limited to; continuing to send e-mail to someone who has said they want no further contact with the sender; sending or posting threats, sexual remarks, or pejorative labels (i.e., hate speech); ganging up on victims by making them the subject of ridicule in forums; posting false statements as fact intended to humiliate the victim; disclosure of personal data, such as the victim's real name, address, or school at websites or forums; posing as the identity of the victim for the purpose of publishing material in their name that defames or ridicules them; sending threatening and harassing text, instant messages, or emails to the victims; and posting or sending rumors or gossip to instigate others to dislike and gang up on the target.
9. Using any Internet or social networking websites to make statements, post pictures, or take any other actions that are indecent, vulgar, lewd, slanderous, abusive, threatening, harassing, or terrorizing.
10. Violating any school policy, handbook provision, or a coach’s or activity sponsor’s training rules or rules of conduct.
11. Dressing or grooming in a manner which is (A) dangerous to the student’s health and safety or a danger to the health and safety of others, (B) lewd, indecent, vulgar, or plainly offensive, (C) materially and substantially disruptive to the work and discipline of the school or an extracurricular activity, (D) interpreted to advocate the use of illegal drugs or other substances by a reasonable observer.
12. Failing to report for an activity at the beginning of a season unless excused by the coach or activity sponsor.
13. Failing to attend scheduled practices and meetings unless excused by the coach or activity sponsor.

Such conduct is prohibited year-round regardless of whether it occurs on-campus or off-campus.  However, punishment for violations that occur during the summer break shall be administered by the coach at his or her discretion.

        Discipline.  Students who violate any provision of these Activity Participation Rules may be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion from extracurricular activities and school sponsored events.  (including but not limited to graduation ceremony and related activities).  These disciplinary consequences and this Activity Code of Conduct are in addition to and do not prejudice, diminish, impede, or reduce any discipline that is authorized by the Nebraska Student Discipline Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 79-254 to 79-294, Board Policy, or the Student Handbook.  Disciplinary action may include a probationary period and conditions that must be satisfied prior to or following reinstatement.  Administrators and coaches will take the following into consideration when making disciplinary decisions:

        1.        Any prior or additional misconduct;

        2.        The nature and seriousness of the offense;

        3.        The motivation for the offense;

        4.        The amount of violence involved;

5.        The student’s demeanor and attitude regarding the violation;

6.        The actual, threatened, or potential risk to the student and others due to the student’s behavior;

7.        Whether the student has compensated or will compensate the victim in the event of property damage or personal injury;

8.        Whether the circumstances of the violation are likely to recur;

9.        The student’s willingness to participate in evaluations, counseling, or other programs;

        10.        Any mitigating factors;

        11.        Any other relevant factors.

        If suspended, the student must continue to participate in practices and conditioning during the suspension if required by the coach or activity sponsor.  The failure to comply with the practice and conditioning requirement will make the student ineligible for reinstatement to the activity.

        Evaluation, Counseling, and Treatment.  Apart from any other disciplinary procedures, students who violate any provision of these rules may be required to undergo a formal clinical evaluation at the administration’s/coach’s/sponsor’s discretion.  Based upon the results of that evaluation, the student may be encouraged or required to participate in an education program, counseling, or other treatment deemed appropriate by the evaluating professional.

        Reporting of Incident.  Students shall report any violation of these rules to the coach, principal, or superintendent no later than 30 minutes after the beginning of the next school day after the violation has occurred.  Failure to report an incident will constitute a violation of these rules and will be taken into consideration in making disciplinary determinations under this policy.

Discipline Procedures.  Prior to any disciplinary action under this activities code, the following procedures shall be followed:

As used in this “Discipline Procedures” section, “Investigator” means the coach or activity sponsor of the team or activity in which the student is participating, or any teacher, school official, or school representative whom the Principal or the Superintendent has authorized to perform the duties and responsibilities of “Investigator” as described below.

1.        The Investigator shall make an investigation of alleged violation and provide an opportunity for the student to present his or her version of the facts surrounding the alleged violation.

2.        The Investigator shall consider all information obtained as a result of the investigation, including information obtained from the student, and shall render a decision regarding disciplinary action.  Within a reasonable period of time of the Investigator’s decision, the student and his/her parent or guardian shall be given written notice of the disciplinary action taken by the Investigator.  

        Review of Investigator’s Decision.        A student or the student's parents may, within five (5) school days of the notice of disciplinary action from the Investigator, notify the Superintendent in writing of their request for a review of the coach or activity sponsor's determination.  The Superintendent or his or her designee shall review the situation and render a decision within three (3) school days from the date of the request for review.  The Superintendent's decision shall be in writing and shall be final.

        Misrepresentations.        Any misrepresentation of fact by a student regarding any alleged violation of these rules shall be considered a separate violation of these rules, and the student shall be subject to additional disciplinary action.

        Questions.  Any parent or student who has questions about board policy, this code, training rules, or rules of conduct of coaches or activity sponsors, or their interpretation or application shall consult with the activities director and/or the superintendent.

        Assistance.  Students are encouraged to consult with their coach, an administrator, a counselor, or a teacher to obtain access to educational, counseling, and other programs and resources that may be available to help avoid misconduct that may result in discipline under this policy.

Section 4: Extracurricular Drug Testing Program

The school district supports and values student participation in extracurricular activities, but such participation in school district extracurricular activities is a privilege and not a right. Students in all extracurricular activities in grades 7-12 shall be subject to mandatory and random testing for the presence of alcohol or illegal drugs.

1.         Purpose of Random Drug Testing

1.                 The school district has recognized that observed and suspected drug and alcohol use and abuse has increased among the student population, including students participating in extracurricular activities.

2.         The school district seeks to provide safe, drug-free schools.

3.         The school district seeks to deter the use of illegal and prohibited drugs and alcohol among students.

4.         The school district recognizes that students who use illegal and prohibited drugs pose a threat to the health and safety of themselves, other students, teachers, administrators, and other persons.

5.         The school district finds that the drug and alcohol problem among the student body will be effectively addressed by making sure that the large number of students participating in extracurricular activities do not use drugs and alcohol.

2.         Notice.  Each student who participates or seeks to participate in extracurricular activities shall be given a copy of this policy.  This policy may also be included in the student handbook.

3.          Drug Testing Coordinator.  The Drug Testing Coordinator shall be the Athletic Director or his or her designee unless otherwise indicated.

4. Extracurricular Activities.  This policy applies to any activity that meets the guidelines of an extracurricular activity at the school district which includes but is not necessarily limited to the following:     

5.       Students Who Are Required to Submit to Drug Testing

1. Grades.  All students in grades 7-12 who participate in any extracurricular activity or competition are part of the pool subject to random drug testing.
2. Consent.  A student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign a consent form before the student shall be eligible to try out for, practice with, or participate in the extracurricular activity.  The consent form is attached to this policy.
3. Selection Pool Eligibility.  Students shall remain in the selection pool for an entire calendar year (365 days) from the date the consent form is received by the school district except those students who quit during the season or activity.
4. Withdrawal.  Students who have a consent form on file remain eligible for drug tests from the date the consent form is received by the school district and throughout the remainder of the school year or until the student files a Withdrawal of Student from Activity form signed by the student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s).  Upon withdrawal, the student shall not be eligible to participate in any activity that is subject to drug testing for the remainder of the school year.  A student who files a Withdrawal of Student from Activity form after selected for a random drug test but before submitting to the test or after testing positive shall be ineligible to participate in any extracurricular activities for one calendar year from the date the Withdrawal of Student from Activity form is received by the Drug Testing Coordinator.

6.         Drugs.  Students participating in extracurricular activities are prohibited from using, possessing, distributing, manufacturing, or having drugs present in their system.  “Drugs” means:

1. Any substance considered illegal by the Uniform Controlled         Substances Act, Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-401 et seq.
2. Any substance which is controlled by the Food and Drug                 Administration unless prescribed to the student by any                 licensed medical practitioner authorized to prescribe                         controlled substances or other prescription drugs;
3. Alcohol for any student under the age of 21.  Alcohol shall                 have the meaning as provided in Neb. Rev. Stat. § 48-1902(1).

7.          Testing Procedures

1. Student Selection.  All students who participate in extracurricular activities and submit a consent form will be included in a master list and will be subject to random drug screening.  The master list shall be submitted to the company employed by the district to conduct the testing.

2. Parental Request.  Students who do not participate in extracurricular activities may be added to the random drug screening master list upon parental request.  Parent(s)/guardians may also request that their student be subject to non-random drug screening.  The school will arrange for the test as soon as practicable.  The parent(s)/guardian(s) making a request under this subparagraph must submit a signed consent form and indicate which type of test is being requested.    advance of the test. Any cost associated with tests administered as a result of parental request must be paid by the parent(s)/guardian(s) in

3. Type of Test.  The school district reserves the right to utilize breath, saliva, hair or urinalysis testing procedures. Urine and oral fluid samples which screen positive will be confirmed by GC/MS. Positive saliva or breath alcohol tests will be confirmed by EBT (Evidential Breath Tester).
4. Collection Site.  The Drug Testing Coordinator will designate the collection site at which student will provide specimens.  The collection site may be off the premises of the school district.

5. Collection Procedures.  The school board will select a Drug Program Administrator (DPA).  The DPA shall randomly select the students subject to drug testing from the master list.  The DPA will maintain and follow generally accepted industry standards for collecting, maintaining, shipping, and accessing all specimens.  The DPA will seek to obtain the sample in a manner designed to insure accurate testing protocols while minimizing intrusion into a student’s privacy.  The DPA and the school district will provide a copy of the collection procedures upon request.

6. Drugs.  Students may be randomly tested for any drugs, including but not limited to Alcohol, Amphetamines, Methamphetamine Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines (Valium), Cocaine Ecstasy-(MDMA), Marijuana, Methadone, Opiates, Oxycodone/Hydrocodone, Phencyclidine Propoxyphene (Darvon), Nicotine (Tobacco).

7. Results.  The DPA shall notify the student and the Drug Testing Coordinator of any positive test after the initial screening.  The school representative shall notify the student’s parents.  The DPA will use a secure method to transmit all positive test results to the DPA’s Medical Review Officer (MRO).  The MRO will be certified by an MRO accreditation body.  The MRO will be responsible for reviewing test results and determining whether the use of a substance identified by the sample analysis is from illicit use or a legitimate medical use.  Prior to making a final decision, the MRO or his or her assistant shall contact the student and his or parent(s)/guardian(s) to discuss the result either face-to-face or over the telephone.  If the MRO determines the test results are negative, no further action shall be taken against the student.  The MRO will report results of verified positives to the DPA.  The DPA shall then notify the Drug Testing Coordinator of the positive test result.  The Drug Testing Coordinator shall notify the student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) and any staff members responsible for implementing the consequences of this policy.

8. Request for a Retest.  A split specimen will be collected for all testing methods, with the exception of alcohol testing.  A positive alcohol test will be confirmed with an EBT device.  A student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) may request that the split specimen be tested at a second nationally certified laboratory from a list provided by the MRO.  The request for the test must be submitted in writing to the MRO (with a copy sent to the Drug Testing Coordinator) within 72 hours of being notified of the final testing result.  The student and his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) must pay the associated costs for an additional test in advance.  The costs will be reimbursed if the result of the split sample test is negative.  The student will remain subject to the consequences of this policy during the retesting procedure.

8. Negative Tests.  Students and their parents will receive verbal

                or written notice when the student’s test result is negative.

9. Consequences for Testing Positive and Violating the                         Policy.  Whenever the test results indicate the presence of                 drugs, and/or a student is caught or self reports using drugs                 and/or alcohol, and/or the student is caught with or admits to                 using a vape the Drug Testing Coordinator shall schedule and                 hold a confidential meeting with the student, parent/guardian,                 and sponsor/coach. Other members of the school’s                                 administration may also attend the meeting.  At the meeting, the         Drug Testing Coordinator shall explain the drug testing                         procedures and the policy of the district.  The consequences shall         be as follows (All offenses are cumulative in grades 7-8.                  Offenses that occur in grades 7-8 shall not count as                         offenses in grades 9-12.  All offenses are cumulative in                 grades 9-12):

1. First Offense

1. The student shall be encouraged to attend and participate in practices.  

2. The student will be ineligible to publicly perform in                         any extracurricular activity for 10 calendar days and                         include no less than one event to be determined by                         administration.  The day of the positive test result shall be                 the first day for counting purposes.  If the end of the                 activity precedes the end of the 10 days, the event will                 carry over to the next activity so the student completes                 the required number of days.

                                Student will be given the opportunity to complete a                                 restorative plan.  The plan will be developed based on the                                 results of the drug and alcohol screening as well as the                                 meeting with student, parents/guardians, administration                                 and coaches/sponsors within 10 calendar days from                                         positive test result.  Upon agreement to complete the                                 restorative plan the student will remain eligible to                                         participate in extracurriculars contingent upon successful                                 completion of the plan.  If the plan is not successfully                                 completed by the date determined within it then the                                         student will have to serve 10 calendar days of ineligibility                                 and a minimum of one event.  

3. The student shall obtain a drug and alcohol screening  from the school’s mental health counselor or at student’s expense from a certified substance abuse counselor or licensed mental health provider who holds a valid license that includes in its scope of practice the ability to administer substance abuse evaluations and/or treatment.  The student shall provide written proof of obtaining the assessment to the school.    

4. The student must submit to a district administered test the very next testing date. Upon a negative test, the student will return to the random pool.

6.  Second Offense

5. The student is encouraged to attend and participate in practices.  

6. The student will be ineligible to publicly perform in any extracurricular activity for 20 calendar days and no less than two events.  The day of the positive test result shall be the first day for counting purposes.   If the end of the activity precedes the end of the 20 days, the remaining events will carry over to the next activity so the student completes the required number of days.

                                Student will be given the opportunity to complete a                                 restorative plan.  The plan will be developed based on the                                 results of the drug and alcohol screening as well as the                                 meeting with student, parents/guardians, administration                                 and coaches/sponsors within 10 calendar days from                                         positive test result.  Upon agreement to complete the                                 restorative plan, and contingent upon successful                                         completion of the plan, the student’s ineligible will be                                 reduced to         10 calendar days and at least one event.                                  If the plan is not successfully completed by the date                                         determined within it then the student will have to serve 20                         calendar days of ineligibility        and a minimum of two                                         events.

7.         If the second offense takes place six months or more after the first offense, the student shall obtain a drug and alcohol screening  from the school’s mental health counselor or at student’s expense from a certified substance abuse counselor or licensed mental health provider who holds a valid license that includes in its scope of practice the ability to administer substance abuse evaluations and/or treatment.  The student shall provide written proof of obtaining the assessment to the school.  If a drug and alcohol screening has occurred within the past 6 months, this is not required.

8.           The student must submit to a district administered test the very next testing date. Upon a negative test, the student will return to the random pool.

7.  Third Offense

9. The Student shall be encouraged to attend and participate in practices.

10. The student will be ineligible to publicly perform in any extracurricular activity for 30 calendar days and no less than three events.  The day of the positive test result shall be the first day for counting purposes.   If the end of the activity precedes the end of the 30 days, the remaining events will carry over to the next activity so the student completes the required number of days.

                                Student will be given the opportunity to complete a                                 restorative plan.  The plan will be developed based on the                                 results of the drug and alcohol screening as well as the                                 meeting with student, parents/guardians, administration                                 and coaches/sponsors within 10 calendar days from                                         positive test result.  Upon agreement to complete the                                 restorative plan, and contingent upon successful                                         completion of the plan, the student’s ineligible will be                                 reduced to         20 calendar days and at least two events.                                  If the plan is not successfully completed by the date                                         determined within it then the student will have to serve 30                         calendar days of ineligibility        and a minimum of three                                 events.

11.         If the third offense takes place six months or more                 after the first offenseThe student shall obtain a drug and                 alcohol screening from the school’s mental health                         counselor or at student’s expense from a certified                         substance abuse counselor or licensed mental health                         provider who holds a valid license that includes in its scope         of practice the ability to administer substance abuse                         evaluations and/or treatment. The student shall provide                 written proof of obtaining the assessment to the school.  If         a drug and alcohol screening has occurred within the past                 6 months, this is not required.

12.         The student must submit to a district administered test the very next testing date. Upon a negative test, the student will return to the random pool.  

8.  Four or More Offenses

13. The Student shall be encouraged to attend and participate in practices.

14.         The student will be ineligible to publicly perform in                 any extracurricular activity for 40 calendar days and no                 less than four events.  The day of the positive test result                 shall be the first day for counting purposes.   If the end of                 the activity precedes the end of the 40 days, the remaining         events will carry over to the next activity so the student                 completes the required number of days.

                                Student will be given the opportunity to complete a                                 restorative plan.  The plan will be developed based on the                                 results of the drug and alcohol screening as well as the                                 meeting with student, parents/guardians, administration                                 and coaches/sponsors within 10 calendar days from                                         positive test result.  Upon agreement to complete the                                 restorative plan, and contingent upon successful                                         completion of the plan, the student’s ineligible will be                                 reduced to         30 calendar days and at least three events.                                  If the plan is not successfully completed by the date                                         determined within it then the student will have to serve 40                         calendar days of ineligibility        and a minimum of four                                         events.

15.         The student shall obtain a drug and alcohol screening          from the school’s mental health counselor or at student’s                 expense from a certified substance abuse counselor or                 licensed mental health provider who holds a valid license                 that includes in its scope of practice the ability to                         administer substance abuse evaluations and/or treatment.          The student shall provide written proof of obtaining the                 assessment to the school.  If a drug and alcohol screening                 has occurred within the past 6 months, this is not required.

16. The student must submit to a district administered test the very next testing date. Upon a negative test, the student will return to the random pool.  

10. Refusal to Test

A student who refuses to submit to a drug test authorized under this policy, or fails or refuses to comply with any other provision of this policy, shall be deemed to have submitted a positive test and must follow protocols in order to return to activity.

11. Tampering

Tampering is the use of any agent or technique which is designed to avoid detection of a drug and/or compromise the integrity of a drug test and is prohibited.  This includes providing false urine samples (for example, urine substitution), contaminating the urine sample with chemicals or chemical products, the use of diuretics to dilute urine samples, and the use of masking. If the Drug Testing Coordinator determines that a student tampered with a drug test, the student shall not be eligible to participate in any activities covered under this policy including all meetings, practices, performances and competitions for one Calendar year.

The use of any such agent or technique shall be treated as a positive test for drugs prohibited by this Policy and shall be subject to the penalties set forth in Section 9 of this Policy.

12.  Maintenance of Records

All results of drug testing shall be confidential.  Procedures for maintaining confidentiality will be developed by the school district and the testing organization.  The Drug Testing Coordinator shall maintain records of positive tests in a secure location.  This information will not be available to anyone other than appropriate school personnel and parents.  This information will be destroyed upon the student’s graduation or one year after the student’s class graduates.  Under no circumstances will this information become a part of the student’s permanent file, nor will it be sent to another school when the student moves to another district or transfers to another school.  The school district will not share drug testing results with any law enforcement agencies.

13. Appeal.

A student participating in extracurricular activities who has been determined by school district officials to be in violation of this policy shall have the right to appeal the decision to the Activity Sponsor/Coach Council. The request for a review must be submitted to the Council in writing within five (5) calendar days of notice of the positive test.  A student requesting a review will remain eligible to participate in any extracurricular activities until the review is completed.  The Council shall then determine whether the original finding was justified. If the appellant is unsatisfied they may appeal to the superintendent. The Superintendent shall then determine whether the findings were justified. No further review of the decision will be provided, and his/her decision shall be final in all respects.  Any necessary interpretation or application of this policy shall be in the sole and exclusive judgment and discretion of the Superintendent which shall be final and non-appealable.

14.  Severability

If any portion of this policy is deemed to be contrary to the law of the state of Nebraska or the United States by judicial decision or an act of Congress, then only such portion or provision directly deemed to be unconstitutional shall be stricken, and the remainder of the policy shall remain in full force.

Section 5: Concussion Information

A Parent’s Guide to Concussions

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

A concussion is a brain injury that results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function.  A concussion occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a blow to the head or body.  An athlete does not have to lose consciousness (“knocked-out”) to suffer a concussion.

CONCUSSION FACTS

• It is estimated that more than 140,000 high school athletes across the United States suffer a concussion each year.  (Data from NFHS Injury Surveillance System).
• Concussions occur most frequently in football, but girl’s lacrosse, girls’ soccer, boy’s lacrosse, wrestling, and girls’ basketball follow closely behind.  All athletes are at risk.
• A concussion is a traumatic injury to the brain.
• Concussion symptoms may last from a few days to several months.
• Concussions can cause symptoms that interfere with school, work, and social life.
• Athletes who have symptoms from a concussion should not return to sports because they are still at risk for prolonging symptoms and further injury.  
• A concussion may cause multiple symptoms.  Many symptoms appear immediately after the injury, while others may develop over the next several days or weeks.  The symptoms may be subtle and are often difficult to fully recognize.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION?

Signs Observed by Parents or Guardians

• Appears dazed or stunned
• Is confused about assignment or position
• Forgets an instruction
• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
• Moves clumsily
• Answers questions slowly
• Loses consciousness (even briefly)
• Shows behavior or personality changes
• Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall
• Can’t recall events after hit or fall

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Symptoms Reported by Athlete

• Headache or “pressure” in head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Double or blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
• Concentration or memory problems
• Confusion
• Does not “feel right”

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK MY CHILD HAS A CONCUSSION?

An athlete who is suspected of having a concussion must be removed from play immediately, whether it is in a game or practice.  Continuing to participate in physical activity after a concussion can lead to worsening concussion symptoms, increased risk of further injury, and even death.  Parents and coaches are not expected to be able to “diagnose” a concussion, as that is the job of a medical professional.  However, they must be aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion and if they are suspicious, the child must stop playing:

WHEN IN DOUBT – SIT THEM OUT!

Every athlete who sustains a concussion needs to be evaluated by a health care professional who is familiar with sports concussions.  Parents should call their child’s physician, explain what has happened, and follow the physician’s instructions.  A child who is vomiting, has a severe headache, or has difficulty staying awake or answering simple questions should be taken to the parent’s doctor or emergency room immediately.  

WHEN MAY AN ATHLETE RETURN TO PLAY FOLLOWING A CONCUSSION?

No athlete who has suffered a concussion should return to play or practice the same day.  Previously, athletes were allowed to return to play if their symptoms resolved within 15 minutes of the injury.  Studies have shown that the young brain does not recover quickly enough for an athlete to return to activity in such a short time.

Concerns about athletes who return to play too quickly have led state lawmakers in Oregon and Washington to pass laws stating that no athlete shall return to play on the day he or she suffered a concussion and the athlete must be cleared by an appropriate health care professional before he or she are allowed to return to play in games or practices.  The laws also mandate that coaches receive education on recognizing the signs and symptoms of concussion.

Once an athlete is free of symptoms of a concussion and is cleared to return to play by a healthcare professional knowledgeable in the care of sports concussions, he or she should proceed with activity in a step-wise fashion to allow the brain to readjust to exertion.  On average, the athlete will complete a new step each day.  The return-to-play schedule should proceed as below following medical clearance:

Step 1: Light exercise, including walking or riding an exercise bike.  No weight-lifting.

Step 2: Running in the gym or on the field.  No helmet or other equipment.

Step 3: Non-contact training drills in full equipment.  Weight training can begin.

Step 4: Full contact practice or training.

Step 5: Game play.

If symptoms occur at any step, the athlete should cease activity and be re-evaluated by a health care provider.

HOW CAN A CONCUSSION AFFECT SCHOOLWORK?

Following a concussion, many athletes will have difficulty in school.  These problems may last from days to months and often involve difficulties with short and long-term memory, concentration, and organization.

In many cases, it is best to reduce the athlete’s class load after the injury.  This may include staying home from school for a few days, followed by a lightened schedule for a few days or perhaps a longer period of time if needed.  Decreasing the stress on the brain soon after a concussion may reduce symptoms and shorten the recovery period.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

• Both you and your child should learn to recognize the “Signs and Symptoms” of a concussion as listed above.
• Emphasize to administrators, coaches, teachers, and other parents your concerns and expectations about concussion and safe play.
• Teach your child to tell the coaching staff if he or she experiences such symptoms.
• Teach your child to tell the coaching staff if he or she suspects that a teammate has a concussion.
• Monitor sports equipment for safety, fit, and maintenance.
• Ask teachers to monitor any decrease in grades or changes in behavior that could indicate concussion.
• Report concussions that occurred during the school year to appropriate school staff.  This will help in monitoring injured athletes as they move to the next season’s sports.

OTHER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Why is it so important that an athlete not return to play until they have completely recovered from a concussion?

An athlete who has not fully recovered from an initial concussion is very vulnerable to recurrent, cumulative, and even catastrophic consequences of a second concussive injury.  Such difficulties are prevented if the athlete is allowed time to recover from the concussion and return-to-play decisions are carefully made.  No athlete should return to sport or other at-risk participation when symptoms of a concussion are present and recovery is ongoing.

Is a “CT scan” or MRI needed to diagnose a concussion?

Diagnostic testing which includes CT (“CAT”) and MRI scans are rarely needed following a concussion.  While these are helpful in identifying life-threatening brain injuries (e.g., skull fracture, bleeding, swelling), they are not normally used, even by athletes who have sustained severe concussions.  A concussion is diagnosed based upon the athlete’s story of the injury and the health care provider’s physical examination.  

What is the best treatment to help my child recover more quickly from a concussion?  

The best treatment for a concussion is rest.  There are no medications that can speed the recovery from a concussion.  Exposure to loud noises, bright lights, computers, video games, television, and phones (including text messaging) may exacerbate the symptoms of a concussion.  You should allow your child to rest as much as possible in the days following a concussion.  As the symptoms decrease, you may allow increased use of computers, phone, video games, etc., but the access must be reduced if symptoms worsen.

How long do the symptoms of a concussion usually last?

The symptoms of a concussion will usually go away within one week of the initial injury.  You should anticipate that your child will likely be out of sports for about two weeks following a concussion.  However, in some cases, symptoms may last for several weeks or even months.  Symptoms such as headache, memory problems, poor concentration, and mood changes can interfere with school, work, and social interactions.  The potential for such long-term symptoms indicates the need for careful management of all concussions.

How many concussions can an athlete have before he or she should stop playing sports?

There is no “magic number” of concussions that determine when an athlete should give up playing contact or collision sports.  The circumstances surrounding each individual injury, such as the way the injury happened and length of symptoms following the concussion are very important and must be considered when assessing the athlete’s risk for further and potentially more serious concussions.  The decision to “retire” from sports is a decision best reached following a complete evaluation by your child’s primary care provider and consultation with a physician or neuropsychologist who specializes in treating sports concussion.  

I’ve read recently that concussions may cause long-term brain damage in professional football players.  Is this a risk for high school athletes who have had a concussion?

The issue of “chronic encephalopathy” in several former NFL players has received a great deal of media attention lately.  Very little is known about what may be causing dramatic abnormalities in the brains of these unfortunate retired football players.  At this time, we have very little knowledge of the long-term effects of concussions that happen during high school athletics.

In the cases of the retired NFL players, it appears that most had long careers in the NFL after playing in high school and college.  In most cases, they played football for over 20 years and suffered multiple concussions in addition to hundreds of other blows to their heads.  Alcohol and steroid use may also be contributing factors in some cases.  Obviously, the average high school athlete does not come close to suffering the total number or sheer force of head trauma seen by professional football players.  However, the fact that we know very little about the long-term effects of concussions in young athletes is further reason to carefully manage each concussion.

Adapted from A Parent’s Guide to Concussion in Sports, National Federation of High School Associations.

Some of this information has been adapted from the CDC’s “Heads Up:  Concussion in High School Sports” materials by the NFHS’s Sports Medicine Advisory Committee.  Please go to www.cdc.gov/ncipc/tbi/Coaches_Tool_Kit.htm for more information.

Section 7: Coach/Sponsor Directory

Section 8: Title IX Policy

Title IX Policy

As required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, it is the policy of the district that no person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any of the district’s programs or activities, or in regards to admission or employment.  Any person may report sex discrimination, including sexual harassment.  This report must be made by any means to the district’s Title IX Coordinator whose contact information can be found on the district’s website and in the district’s student and staff handbooks.  Any other inquiries regarding the application of this policy should be referred to the Title IX Coordinator.

Section 9: Forms

AUTHORIZATION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

WARNING: SERIOUS CATASTROPHIC AND PERHAPS FATAL INJURY MAY RESULT FROM ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION

Many forms of athletic competition result in violent physical contact among players, the use of equipment that may result in accidents, strenuous physical exertion, and numerous other exposures to risk of injury.  Students and parents must assess the risks involved in such participation and make their choice to participate in spite of those risks.  No amount of instruction, precaution, or supervision will eliminate these risks. Students have suffered accidents resulting in death, paraplegia, quadriplegia, and other very serious permanent physical impairment while playing sports.  By granting permission for your student to participate in athletic competition, you, the parent or guardian, acknowledge that such risk exists.  Students will be instructed in proper techniques to be used in athletic competition and in the proper utilization of all equipment worn or used in practice and competition.  Students must adhere to that instruction and utilization and must refrain from improper uses and techniques.

I understand the statement above and I understand that by allowing my student to participate in athletic events, I assume the risk that he/she may be injured, perhaps severely.

_______________________________

Signature of Parent

______________________________                _____________________

Printed Name of Parent                                Date

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CONDUCT CODE

I understand that as a student representing the school district in activities, I am obligated to comply with the athletic handbook, including the code of conduct.  This means that I may not possess, use, or be at parties in the presence of alcohol, illicit drugs, or controlled substances at any time during the calendar year.  I understand that this policy applies both during the school year and in the summer.  I understand that if I violate the code of conduct or other rules in this handbook, I may be suspended from participation in all co-curricular activities and/or school sponsored activities or events.  

_________________________________

Signature of Student

______________________________                _____________________

Printed Name of Student                                Date

I understand that my student is obligated by this handbook, including the statements above.

_________________________________

Signature of Parent

______________________________                _____________________

Printed Name of Parent                                        Date