GCISD Approves Handbook Changes
After lengthy discussion, the GCISD school board unanimously approved several
changes for the 2002-2003 student handbook July 15. Of greatest interest may be
changes to the policy which governs all extracurricular activities, including
sports, UIL academic events, band, etc.
The board and administration emphasize that the new rules are “no
joke,” and will be enforced.
Coaches, administrators and board members said that with the tightened
rules, they are not attempting to replace parental authority, or to be punitive,
but rather trying to teach responsibility, accountability and honesty.
Some board members reminded that participation in extracurricular
activities is not a student’s right, but a privilege. Athletic
Director/Football Coach Wade Wesley said, “ If you want to represent your
school in extracurricular activities, you have to be held to a higher
standard.”
Meetings
with Parents Held
Participants in extracurricular activities and their parents will be
required to sign the policy. Wesley will hold meetings Aug. 20 and August 22 at
7 p.m. in the school cafeteria to discuss the policy with parents. Two previous
meetings were held on Aug. 6 and Aug. 8. Parents were asked to attend at least
one of the meetings.
Four parents were at the Aug. 12 school board meeting to voice their
concerns regarding the new extracurricular policy. Rose Pelzel suggested that
coaches, teachers, board members and parents sign the same policy the kids sign,
and lead by example.
Susan Carlisle said she was totally taken by surprise by the new policy,
and wanted to know if it is “set in stone.”
Donnita Coats said she was upset that parents rights are being taken
away, and that wording is too vague, saying, for example, that kids would
“probably” would not be turned in for drinking alcohol with their parents’
consent.
Doug Coats said he opposes “too much stuff in writing,” calling it
“ a can of worms,” and said he doesn’t like giving his parental rights
away. He said, “I believe in the law of the land, and I will legally test this
document if necessary. Rules are for coaches, and parents are tired of paying
for those who don’t control their kids.” He said he was willing to work with
the school if there is an open path.
School Board President Jimmy Eggemeyer said the policy could be
fine-tuned if necessary. He suggested that parents come up with specific,
written suggestions for improvements to the policy and submit them to the board
for consideration.