Louisiana School Board Adopts Athlete Concussion Policy

The St. Martin Parish School Board voted to amend its policies so they are in compliance with the state’s new student-athlete concussion awareness laws.

Two laws adopted during the 2011 legislative session require school districts to ensure that all coaches and the parents of athletes are made aware of the risks of concussions and head injuries, according to the new policy.

The Advocate reported that the St. Martin policy, enacted this week, requires a coach to immediately remove from practice or competition any student-athlete who shows signs of a concussion.

The athlete will not be allowed to return to practice or competition until the student is released in writing by a licensed medical practitioner, the policy says.