New Concussion Policy Unveiled

The Reading School District rolled out its new concussion policy during its Dec. 5th School Committee meeting in the Superintendent’s conference room at Reading Memorial High School.

In accordance with a new state law, all schools and school districts must have a concussion prevention and treatment policy in place by Jan. 1.

RMHS Athletic Director Phil Vaccaro and Director of Nurses Lynn Dunn outlined the new plan before the committee, who unanimously voted to approve the first reading. School Committee Policy JJIF (Athletic Concussion) will require annual training in prevention and recognition of a sports-related head injury, including second impact syndrome. Before participation in any school sponsored sporting event coaches, certified athletic trainers, volunteers, school physicians, school nurses, athletic directors, referees, school band directors, parents and students must complete a concussion prevention and recognition course.

Other business before the committee included a review of the Facilities Naming Policy, which was sent back for further revision by a 6-1 vote. 

The School Committee also heard the annual MCAS report for 2011, approved the Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for the Killam accessibility and renovation project,  heard a report detailing all personnel changes and approved an additional Habit for Humanity field trip to accomodate all the students who wished to participate.

Check out the attached PDF file for a comprehensive look at the matters before the School Committee as well as the complete concussion policy and full MCAS presentation.