On July 1, 2012, New York State enacted the Concussion Management and Awareness Act. The Commissioner of Education worked with the Commissioner of Health to produce guidelines for school districts to follow in protecting the health and well-being of concussed students. The Bethlehem Central School District has responded to the New York State Concussion Management and Awareness Act by developing a district-wide Concussion Management Protocol. This Protocol outlines procedures for district staff, parents, and students to follow in managing head injuries; as well as guidance in returning to activities following a concussion. The goals of Bethlehem’s concussion management include:
- Education regarding head injuries and concussion
- Prompt emergency response to head injuries
- Appropriate medical follow-up
- Return to play/activities guidance
The law specifies that coaches, athletic trainers, physical education teachers and school nurses receive state approved biennial training regarding concussion awareness and management. Bethlehem Central also believes that it is important for parents and students to also have access to head injury and concussion materials.
District Policy
Online Resources
Below are some resources to obtain additional information about concussions.