Dear Parent/Guardian,
In the summer of 2011, our Board of Education reached an agreement that all student athletes at our middle school will be required to take the IMPACT test prior to participating on any of our athletic teams. Simply stated, the IMPACT test gives your child's doctor a baseline score to compare to a second IMPACT test score which will be required if your child ever suffers a concussion during a practice or game. Most recently the FDA has approved the version of the test we use for children 12 years old and older. Therefore, we are currently re-testing 11 year old students who have taken the test when they were 11 years of age.
In addition please understand that our school district does adhere to a "Cut" Policy. This policy may require our coaching staff to limit the number of student athletes who can participate on our athletic teams. Consequently, our coaches are faced with a very challenging task of eliminating players at the end of a “tryout” period. Although every effort will be made by our staff to cultivate your child’s interest in team sports please take the time to prepare your youngster if they do not qualify for one of our sport teams.
It is the goal of our athletic program to provide an environment that develops appropriate attitudes and values that reflect the moral and ethical qualities of life in a democratic society. We believe these values are inherent in team sports. Through practices and contests students will learn to work with others, to trust and depend upon others and to understand the differences of others while maintaining a goal of achieving excellence. We believe it is important for our student athletes to play and work with their contemporaries. Special bonds of friendship develop through team sports.
Involvement in school life beyond the classroom is an important part of the education of a child. Active participation in team sports teaches students to control their emotions while performing under pressure, respect and good sportsmanship, the importance of preparation and organization, personal sacrifice and commitment of oneself for the betterment of the team, confidence, and the rewards of hard work.
Athletics aid in the emotional, social and physical development of the individual person. Self-confidence, self-esteem, and a competitive spirit are all anticipated outcomes of a child’s participation in team sports. Our athletics program is designed to foster a feeling of school and community pride. It also teaches acceptance of winning and losing with dignity and graciousness.
I am very pleased to announce that parents and guardians can now have up to date information on their child’s sport schedule by registering for "Notify Me". This free service has the ability to send an automated email to an address of your choice or text message to your cell phone that will notify you immediately once an event is canceled or changed. Check out the"Notify Me" link on our athletic website
Please make note that Princeton Public Schools has a policy to offer every child the opportunity to participate in appropriate programs, clubs, and activities. Thank you for your time and attention. Our coaches and I look forward to meeting you.
Sincerely,
Brian Dzbenski
Director of Athletics
Princeton Public Schools