Any athlete in grades 11 or 12 who feels a need for additional study time during the school day should discuss the matter with his/her Physical Education instructor. If it is determined that there is a genuine need, and that the student will use this time wisely, a schedule of additional study time will be devised that is mutually agreeable to the student and the instructor. It will include the amount of study time (not to exceed three, 45-minute periods in the eight-day cycle) and the study location in the school building. Additionally, the athlete must be in attendance at the beginning of every physical education class, from which a pass will be provided to the study location on the appropriate days, and that he/she must demonstrate mastery of skills and knowledge of information taught in PE class. The study schedule will be in effect for the length of the athletic season as long as the athlete is in good standing; failure to be in attendance at the assigned study area will result in termination of the study schedule and a return to all physical education classes.
Rationale: All teachers are sensitive to the academic needs of students. Physical Education instructors, all of whom have participated in interscholastic and/or collegiate athletics, are aware of the time constraints experienced by student athletes. We have historically been flexible in our expectations regarding time spent in class participation.
Successful achievement in an extensive academic schedule is a difficult task made more difficult by participation in an athletic program or any other extracurricular activity. Should the student intend to participate in athletics we suggest the following: including a study hall in the daily schedule; prioritizing all family, academic, athletic,work, and social commitments; using time after school and before practice for study or homework; discussing modifications in the athletic commitment with the coach as needed; and seeking assistance from counselors and teachers regarding completion of academic tasks.
In reality, most students perform better academically during the athletic season than they do out of season. Balancing academics and athletics is not an easy task, but through the combined effort of students, parents, teachers, counselors, and coaches, the athlete can achieve successfully in both areas.
Region Voted to Approve: 10/8/96
Amherst Voted to Approve:
Pelham Voted to Approve:
Effective Date: 10/8/96