Updated as of August 2023
A concussion is a reaction by the brain to a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. The signs of a concussion may occur immediately, hours, or days after the injury. There is a range of symptoms, including but not limited to headache, dizziness, nausea, irritability, light sensitivity, difficulty thinking clearly, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals may display different symptoms experienced for different lengths of time. Please note the following procedure:
1. If a suspected concussion occurs in school the student will be evaluated by the nurse. The parent will be notified, and medical follow up is required. The student will be removed from physical activity pending medical evaluation. A note should be provided to the school after the medical evaluation.
2. If the injury occurs outside of school hours, i.e. during an after-school sport or activity, a motor vehicle accident, an outside sport etc. the Health Office should be notified as soon as possible and the same procedure will follow. Student will be removed from physical activity for suspected concussion. A health care provider diagnosis or a note stating no concussion will be required.
3. The student will meet with the nurse in the morning upon return to school for an intake interview. Concussion guidelines, recommendations, and procedures will be discussed. The student will be
referred to the concussion point person in guidance for academic oversight.
4. Athletics (if applicable), Physical Education, guidance, the Dean’s Office, the Assistant Principals’ Office, and teachers will be notified of the diagnosis, removal from athletic participation and any doctor recommendations received from the doctor.
5. In accordance with the Concussion Management and Awareness Act, students removed from physical activities and interscholastic sports for a concussion must be re-evaluated by and receive written and signed authorization from their health care provider to return to physical activities. Students must be symptom free for a minimum of 24 hours to obtain a clearance.
6. The school medical director must also clear a student to return to physical activity. The nurse will provide the school medical director with a case summary. It is at the discretion of the medical director to accept a private health care provider clearance and require the student to complete a gradual 5 Day Return to Play protocol prior to permitting the student to return to participation in interscholastic athletics and physical education.
7. If a 5 Day Return to Play is required the student will complete this requirement with their athletic team, the athletic trainer, or the physical education department. Upon successful completion and
submission of the Return to Play program, the student will be cleared for physical activity and may resume athletics without restrictions.
8. Return to Learn will be evaluated on an individual basis by the Guidance Department concussion point person. Once cleared the student will return to being followed by their regular guidance counselor.
9. All coaches, physical education instructors, nurses and trainers are required to complete the NYSED online training course every two years.
For more information on concussion visit this page.
