General Policy For Athletics

It is the overwhelming opinion of health educators and coaches that athletes perform best when they follow intelligent training rules. These rules include restrictions on tobacco, alcohol, and drugs which include steroids and other performance-enhancing drugs. The coaches/advisors of the South Burlington School District are concerned with the health habits of the student/athletes of this community and are convinced that athletics/activities and the use of these substances are not compatible.

Since participation in co-curricular activities at SBHS is a privilege for each individual, it is important that students, parents, and interested persons are aware of the necessary rules and regulations. We believe that participation in activities is a vital part of the student's educational experience. The Activities Department, consistent with school district policy, therefore prohibits the use/abuse of alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, vapor pens or any form of electronic cigarettes, any substance used as an inhalant, alcohol and illegal use of drugs of any form. Training Rules are in effect from the date of the first official team practice, through the conclusion of the final event/competition. The training rules also extend beyond school time, school grounds, and school functions. We, as a department, feel that abstinence should be a way of life in and out of school.

A "violation" of training rules is: "Any drug or alcohol-related incident which occurs during the activity's season and includes the purchase, use, possession, being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, dealing in alcohol or other drugs and the possession of devices specifically or reasonably associated with alcohol or drug use, the refusal of a student to "cooperate fully" as set forth in IV A.2 of the SBSD Policy, or any other specific drug or alcohol-related action(s) that, in the best judgment of school personnel who are familiar with the student's normal behavior, impairs the normal functioning of a student.

Due process will include: The consequences and due process afforded the student/athlete for violation of the training rules of the South Burlington Activities Department shall be consistent with district-wide policy for alcohol and drug abuse.

For possession or use of tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or any other mood-altering chemicals or devices specifically or reasonably associated with alcohol, or drug use the consequences are:

First Offense: 2-week suspension from all athletic competition. Student cannot dress for any games, travel to any contests with the team, or be associated with the team at away contests or activities. The athlete will be expected to participate in all scheduled practice sessions. The student may also be required to participate in a socially rehabilitative/counseling program. Failure to meet or to work toward meeting this requirement will result in immediate dismissal from the team for the remainder of the season, and will also prohibit the athlete from participating on any other athletic team until the obligation has been met.
Second Offense (Cumulative grades 6-12): A four (4) week suspension from all school-related team/group activities, regardless of location. Also, the athlete will be required to participate in a socially rehabilitative/counseling program according to district-wide policy.
Third Offense (Cumulative grades 6-12): Immediate dismissal from co-curricular activities for the remainder of the current school year. Also, the student must once again complete the social rehabilitation/counseling program before he/she can request to join any co-curricular activity.

Athletics & Activities

Co-Curricular Digest

"The Other Half Of Education"

Academic Eligibility

Attendance

Awards Criteria

Communication

Conduct Expectations

Concussions

End of Season Awards

Equipment

Hazing

Injuries

Insurance

NCAA & College Eligibility

Non-School Sports

Parent & Legal Guardian Warning

Performance Enhancers

Personal Property

Playing Time

Social Media & Technology

Sportsmanship

Training Rules

Tryouts

Two Sport Policy