October 24, 2011

The August 2011 edition of the American School Board Journal included an article entitled Head Games. It highlighted the dangers of concussions in children and youth and how school districts can protect students from traumatic brain injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “concussions account for one (1) in every ten (10) sports injuries.” Over 1.7 million individuals visit an emergency room each year with mild traumatic brain injuries. Nearly a half million of those visits are for children ages fourteen (14) and younger. Pittsylvania County Schools has responded with the establishment of a Concussion Management Team (CMT) comprised of administrators, coaches, parents, student-athletes, athletic trainers and medical personnel. The Team was charged to develop concussion training materials for school personnel, volunteers, student-athletes and parents of student-athletes.

Also, the CMT has developed concussion reporting, management and review protocols for the school division. Finally, the CMT is required to maintain a record of all incidents where a student-athlete has been removed from a game, competition or practice because he/she has been suspected of sustaining a concussion. Specifically, School Board Policy JJAC, Student-Athlete Concussions During Extra-Curricular Activities, has been reviewed and approved by the Board setting direction and protocols for the school division. In order to better help educate the general public, the CMT has prepared informational slides displayed on the signage boards at the four (4) high schools.

Also, the student representatives on the CMT are developing a short training video to help communicate the signs, symptoms and interventions for concussions. Finally, it is our hope that the news media will partner with the CMT to provide informational articles that will help educate the general public to the dangers of concussions in children and youth. Promoting the safety and welfare of our students is another shining example of why Pittsylvania County Schools is A Great Place to Learn and Work!