Changes to athletic policy helps students | Letter
Published 9:26 am Thursday, August 16, 2012
Over the past few weeks there has been a discussion of changes to the school athletic policy. As a parent who lobbied for the changes, I would like to address those concerns and clear up what those changes were.
Contrary to recent discussions, the new policy does not “not do anything bad to you if it’s the FIRST time.” The policy clarifies and potentially increases sanctions for athletes who use or posses banned substances. The policy also codifies established mental health review and drug testing protocols athletes must follow in order to regain eligibility that did not previously exist.
It was stated that the policy is “contrary” to the position of the State Attorney General’s Office as well as “… violates the health and safety curriculum taught in Washington schools.” The policy is fully aligned with the “Start Talking Now” and “Lets Draw the Line” programs endorsed by the AG’s office. By including legally based consequences and addressing treatment options (OSPI HSH 2.4.5 – 2.4.7) the policy is in direct agreement with OSPI’s curriculum and in no way violates the posted curriculum guidelines.
Finally, and importantly, the term “in the presence of” was removed as a basis of violation. It was stated that “most schools” have policies prohibiting athletes from being “in the presence of” the use drugs or alcohol. A quick review reveals that “most schools” (based upon districts which post policies online) do not include this phrase. The omission of this phrase from the policy is in agreement with WIAA standards, the AG’s office and OSPI’s recommended student health curriculum (which does not address the topic).
I asked for the changes to be made to the policy so that my children would be clear and aware of the consequences of their actions while allowing me – the parent – to determine appropriate boundaries. I asked the board to clean up what was at best a confusing, rambling and unenforceable document. The board did not adopt a policy of enablement, but instead a policy of accountability that allows for a clear and consistent dialogue between all parties.
While there will continue to be differing sides to this discussion, we have created a dialogue that is putting child safety and responsibility forward and forcing us all to confront the issues that face our children today.
Justin Paulsen
Eastsound
