Concussion Protocol

Cook County School District 130 is committed to protecting the health and safety of all students. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can affect a student's learning, behavior, and participation in school and physical activities. Prompt recognition, appropriate medical evaluation, and proper management are essential to a student's recovery.

The District follows state law, Board of Education policy, and established procedures for responding to suspected concussions.

What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. A concussion can occur with or without a loss of consciousness.

Common signs and symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Fatigue
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Difficulty sleeping

If a Concussion Is Suspected
If a student is suspected of sustaining a concussion during a school-sponsored activity, athletic event, physical education class, or any other school-related activity:

• The student will be removed from participation immediately.
• The student's parent or guardian will be notified as soon as possible.
• The student should be evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider experienced in concussion management.
• The student may not return to physical activity until written medical clearance has been provided in accordance with District procedures and applicable law.

Return to Learn
Students recovering from a concussion may require temporary academic accommodations while symptoms improve.
Cook County School District 130 will work collaboratively with parents or guardians, healthcare providers, school administrators, teachers, school nurses, counselors, and other Student Services personnel to develop an appropriate plan based on the student's individual needs.

Examples of accommodations may include:

• Reduced academic workload
• Extended time for assignments or assessments
• Scheduled rest breaks
• Modified screen time
• Temporary adjustments to classroom activities
• Modified attendance, when appropriate

Return to Physical Activity
Students may gradually return to physical education classes, recess, athletics, and other physical activities only after receiving written medical clearance from a licensed healthcare provider and in accordance with District procedures.

The student's return to activity will be monitored to promote a safe and successful recovery.

Parent and Guardian Responsibilities
Parents and guardians should:

• Notify the school if their child has sustained a concussion or head injury.
• Provide medical documentation and recommendations from the treating healthcare provider.
• Communicate any changes in symptoms during the recovery process.
• Support recommended academic and activity restrictions.
• Maintain communication with school staff throughout the student's recovery.

Questions
Questions regarding concussion protocols, student health services, or return-to-learn accommodations may be directed to:

Student Services Department
Cook County School District 130
5318 W. 135th Street
Crestwood, Illinois 60418
Phone: (708) 389-1175

Office Hours:
Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Families may also contact their child's school nurse or principal for assistance.

Related Board Policies
Concussion management is governed by the following Board of Education policies:

• Board Policy 7:305 – Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries
• Board Policy 7:100 – Health, Eye, and Dental Examinations; Immunizations; and Exclusion of Students

Additional information is available in the Parent-Student Handbook and the District's Board of Education Policy Manual.