Student Life Handbook

Upper Arlington High School Culture

Culture is what we believe, how we behave and the experiences our behavior produces for the people around us. It is the foundation upon which our learning community is built. Although written statements such as our mission to “challenge and support every student, every step of the way” help clarify culture, only our actions build culture. Our core values provide the standards for how we behave toward each other. Because our culture shapes our behavior, it determines how effectively we fulfill our mission and execute our strategic plan. Strategic planning is critical, but it cannot succeed without a culture to support it. Culture eats strategy for lunch. Our success depends on the ability to collaborate and perform in a constantly changing environment. Culture aligns everyone in the district to a common set of values and behaviors that ultimately determine how we prepare our students to serve, lead, and succeed.

Upper Arlington High School Culture Playbook

20 Square Feet ^TM

20 Square Feet is simply a metaphor that expresses that each person in the district has a sphere of influence. It illustrates that the way we behave personally — the way each of us manages our 20 Square Feet — determines our culture.

Values, Behaviors, & Outcomes (VBOs)

 

Philosophy

We believe that a well-rounded education includes participation in extracurricular activities, which is a critical component to becoming Uniquely Accomplished. We believe that extracurricular activities are a privilege. We encourage and support students to pursue a variety of extracurricular activities, including multiple sports. We believe that when teachers, families, coaches, and administrators work together to serve, students are more likely to be successful. We believe that our mission guides us in our fundamental purpose, that our vision points us to our compelling future, and that our values tell us how to behave in our journey toward our vision.

Mission: Challenge and support every student, every step of the way

Vision: Uniquely Accomplished students prepared to serve, lead, and succeed

Values: Start with heart, Strength in team, Contagious drive

Upper Arlington High School Clubs are finalized at the beginning of each school year and are then listed in the Student Life Directory.

Fall	Winter	Spring
Cheerleading (Football)	Basketball (Girls)	Baseball
Cross Country (Girls)	Basketball (Boys)	Crew (Girls)
Cross Country (Boys)	Cheerleading (Basketball)	Crew (Boys)
Field Hockey	Diving (Girls)	Lacrosse (Girls)
Football	Diving (Boys)	Lacrosse (Boys)
Golf (Girls)	Gymnastics	Softball
Golf (Boys)	Ice Hockey	Tennis (Boys)
Soccer (Girls)	Swimming (Girls)	Track & Field (Girls)
Soccer (Boys)	Swimming (Boys)	Track & Field (Boys)
Tennis (Girls)	Wrestling	Volleyball (Boys)
Volleyball (Girls)
Water Polo (Girls)
Water Polo (Boys)

 

Amount: $100.00 per student-athlete/per sport

1. Fees must be paid after the squad/team participants are selected and before the first interscholastic contest — not including scrimmages and previews.
2. Fees are to be paid online through SPS EZpay.
3. Should financial assistance be needed, please contact your coach or the director of student life immediately.
4. No refunds

Most problems that arise should be addressed by the student-athlete with the program head coach or advisor. If, for some reason, the problem can not be addressed by the student-athlete with the head coach/advisor, parents/guardians will follow the steps outlined below until the concern has been appropriately addressed.

1. Meet with head coach/advisor, assistant coach, and student-athlete
2. Meet with all of the above and a director from the student life office
3. Meet with all of the above and the high school principal

Each head coach will develop, communicate, and implement objective criteria for the selection of student-athletes onto a team. The criteria must be approved by the director of student life prior to each season. The head coach will meet individually with each student-athlete to communicate whether or not the student-athlete has met the criteria to be a member of the team, and specifically which team within the program, or if they are a “swing” player. Posting a list is not an appropriate way to communicate this type of information.

Formal leadership roles are an important aspect of bringing our vision to life by preparing students to lead. Each head coach will develop, communicate, and implement a system for the selection of team captains. The system must be approved by the director of student life prior to each season. If voting is the system, or part of the system, records of the votes must be kept for twelve months. The initial announcement of captain selections will not be made in a public forum, such as a banquet.

Prior to the start of each season, a Meet the Team event will be held at the high school. This is a seasonal mandatory event for head coaches and student-athletes. At least one parent or guardian is required to attend the first “Meet the Team” event that impacts their child. Attendance will be tracked by the office of student life.

The Student Life Departments offer a variety of ticket opportunities for both our students and community members. The Ohio Capital Conference, of which Upper Arlington Schools Athletics is a member, determines the cost of admission. Ticket prices may be different for tournament games sponsored by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). Tickets are sold online or in person at the event with cash. online Tickets for events at Upper Arlington HS can be purchased online. 

Single Game Ticket Prices

JV/Varsity Events -Adults/Students/Seniors: $8.00 (plus applicable fees), or $10.00 cash price.

JV Only Events -Adults/Students/Seniors: $5.00 (plus applicable fees), or $5 cash price.

Activity Cards are available for Upper Arlington senior citizens age 60 and above at the district central office, UA Senior Center and the student life office at the high school. These cards are valid for UA School sponsored athletic events and extracurricular activities. (Cards cannot be used for tournament play).

Digital passes (by sport, season and all-sports) will be available by purchase through HomeTeam Ticketing on the uaschools.org website beginning in August.

Athletic Academic Requirements

Student-athletes must meet the following academic requirements in order to participate in athletics, extracurricular and cocurricular activities in grades 7-12. (Policy 5610.06)

1. A student-athlete must earn at least a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) in order to be eligible for participation. The GPA will be applied separately for grades 7-8 and for grades 9-12 and calculated each grading period. A student’s eligibility will be determined according to the GPA earned for each nine week grading period, independent of prior grading periods. Semester and final exams are not to be calculated in the nine week GPA assessment because of the comprehensive nature of exams. Eligibility can be maintained, gained or lost each grading period.

2. In addition to the above Upper Arlington requirements, a student athlete must qualify under all rules established by the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA). To maintain state eligibility as established by the OHSAA, a student-athlete must have received passing grades in a minimum of 5 one credit courses (4 one credit courses in the preceding period for grades 7 and 8), or the equivalent in the immediately preceding grading period. (OHSAA Bylaw 4-4-1)

3. An exception to the GPA requirement may be made for an individual student with special needs and/or extenuating circumstances. An eligibility board, composed of an administrator and a representative of the athletic department, will review such situations on an individual basis and may waive certain requirements as appropriate. This provision is intended to meet unique situations of students with special or adjusted educational needs. The eligibility board will hear requests of students and/or parents in regards to special needs, extenuating circumstances such as long-term illness, and/or appeals regarding eligibility.

Athletic Attendance Requirements

1. A student-athlete who is not well enough to attend, and/or has an unexcused absence for periods 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 will not be eligible to participate in athletic competition or practice on that day.

UAHS Online Academy Athletic Attendance Requirement

In accordance with the Upper Arlington athletic policy, a student-athlete who does not complete a minimum of two hours of active work in the online platform will not be eligible to participate in athletic competition or practice that day.

Preamble

The Student Life Code for student-athletes is in effect 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Participation in athletics and extracurricular activities is a privilege extended to all students who meet the eligibility requirements. One of the requirements is compliance with this Code, which is supportive of the District’s commitment to provide a drug-free atmosphere where all students have the opportunity to achieve their academic, athletic, and social potential. To that end, athletic and extracurricular programs promote and reinforce a clear no-use message for students.

Student Expectations

The director of student life will hold an all student-athlete meeting at the beginning of each new sport season (fall, winter, and spring) to review the district’s expectations of student-athlete conduct. This meeting will serve as a compliance review opportunity to discuss relevant OHSAA rules and Board Policy, including anti-harassment, anti-bullying, and anti-hazing.

Prohibition from Extracurricular Activities (Policy 5610.05)

Participation in extracurricular activities, including interscholastic sports, is a privilege and not a right. Therefore, the Board of Education authorizes the Superintendent, principals, assistant principals, and director of student life, and other authorized personnel employed by the District to supervise or coach a student activity program, to prohibit a student from participating in any particular or all extracurricular activities of the District for offenses or violations of the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code for a period not to exceed the remainder of the school year in which the offense or violation of the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code took place. In addition, student-athletes are further subject to the Student Life Code of Conduct and may be prohibited from participating in all or part of any interscholastic sport for violations therein. Students prohibited from participation in all or part of any extra-curricular activity are not entitled to further notice, hearing, or appeal rights.

Memorandum to Parents Regarding Board Policy on Drug-Free Schools

In accordance with federal law, the Board of Education prohibits the use, possession, concealment, or distribution of any drug, or drug-related paraphernalia, or the misuse of a product containing a substance that can provide an intoxicating or mood-altering effect by students on school grounds, in school or school-approved vehicles, or at any school-related event. Compliance with Board Policy 5530 – Drug Prevention and Board Policy 5512 – Use of Tobacco is mandatory for all students. Any student who violates these policies will be subject to disciplinary action, in accordance with due process and as specified in the Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, up to and including expulsion from school. The District will notify law enforcement as appropriate and/or required by law. The District is concerned about any student who is a victim of alcohol or drug abuse and will facilitate a process to provide help and support to the student through programs and services available in the community. Students and their parents should contact the school principal or counseling office whenever such help is needed.

Rule 1: Citizenship

Any behavior that results in dishonor to the participant, participant’s team or organization, or participant’s school will not be tolerated. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to, cheating, dishonesty, harassment, intimidation or bullying, hazing, theft, vandalism, disrespect, or violations of the law. Citizenship violations include any violation of the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook and any violation of the rules established by a coach or advisor. Given the unique circumstances of a situation, the director of student life may impose an educational experience in lieu of a first offense.

Voluntary Referral - The requirements for a voluntary referral are set forth in the definitions section of this Handbook.

1. No Participation Loss

2. If the option of Voluntary Referral has been used, the Second Violation will be viewed as a "Second Offense"

3. Loss of Leadership position(s) for one (1) year

4. Mandatory Assessment (if deemed appropriate by the administration)

First Offense

1. 20% loss of participation (including contests, competitions, and performances)*

2. Loss of formal leadership role (captainship) for one year

Second Offense

1. 50% loss of participation (including contests, competitions, and performances)*

2. Ineligible for awards

3. Permanent loss of formal leadership position

Third Offense

1. Permanent loss of the privilege to participate in extracurricular activities

Rule 2: Use, Being Under the Influence of, or Possession of Drugs

Any extracurricular participant hosting or attending (as determined by a law enforcement agency or school district employee) a party where alcohol or other drugs, as defined in Policy 5610.06, are consumed by minors shall also be prohibited. In the event a student-athlete unintentionally finds themself in the proximity of minors consuming alcohol or other drugs, they must immediately remove themselves and follow the voluntary referral process.

Voluntary Referral - The requirements for a voluntary referral are set forth in the definitions section of this Handbook.

1. No loss of participation

2. If the option of Voluntary Referral has been used, the Second Violation will be viewed as a "Second Offense"

3. Loss of formal leadership role (captainship) for one year

4. Mandatory assessment

First Offense

1. 20% loss of participation (including contests, competitions, and performances)*

2. All awards held until completion of Saturday Family Workshop or comparable family program

3. Loss of leadership position(s) for one (1) year

4. Required Participation in the Intervention and Assistance Program

5. Mandatory Assessment

Second Offense

1. 50% loss of participation (including contests, competitions, and performances)*

2. Ineligible for awards

3. Permanent loss of formal leadership position

4. Required Participation in the Intervention and Assistance Program

5. Mandatory Assessment

Third Offense

1. Permanent loss of the privilege to participate in extracurricular activities

2. Mandatory Assessment

Use, possession, or being under the influence of anything defined as “Drugs” in Policy 5610.06, including, but not limited to tobacco products, alcohol, drugs, controlled substances, electronic cigarettes, personal vaporizer, look-alikes and/or drug paraphernalia is strictly prohibited throughout the calendar year (365 days, with no exceptions).

Rule 3: Selling or Otherwise Supplying, Transmitting, or Distributing Drugs

First Offense

1. Loss of the privilege to participate for one calendar year

2. Violations reported to the police

3. Permanent loss of formal leadership position

4. Ineligible for awards

5. Required participation in Intervention and Assistance Program

6. Mandatory assessment

Second Offense

1. Permanent loss of the privilege to participate in extracurricular activities

2. Violations reported to the police

3. Mandatory assessment

Exceptions to Rules 2 and 3

Notwithstanding the other provisions of the Code, the following shall be permitted:

A. A parent or guardian of a student may serve alcohol as permitted by law to their own student-athlete;

B. A student may observe bona fide religious practices; and

C. The Athletic Council may modify penalties and provide conditions in its sole discretion where medical or psychological documentation has been presented which sufficiently demonstrates that penalties imposed under this Code will have extreme consequences for a student athlete’s well-being.

* For year long clubs/organizations this will be interpreted as 20% = 9 weeks and 50% = one semester.

Note: Participation loss may carry over to the student-athlete’s next season/school year to fully reach the percent of contests lost. The number of competitions missed will be determined by the percentage of the maximum number of regular season contests allowed by OHSAA in each sport (that number will be rounded down if needed).

Note: Coaches cannot impose code violation punishments until the student-athlete has had a hearing with the director of student life or designee.

Notice and Investigation

The principal or designee shall notify the student-athlete and the student-athlete’s parent(s) or guardian(s) of any alleged violation. The principal or designee will investigate the alleged violation by contacting the student-athlete, the student-athlete’s parent(s) or guardian(s) and any other individuals the principal or designee deems necessary in his/her discretion. The principal or designee shall determine the appropriate penalty as soon as reasonably possible after investigating the alleged violation.

The standard used to determine whether a student has violated the Student Life Code will be the preponderance of evidence standard. The administrator making a determination about whether a student has violated the Code will consider evidence presented to him/her, including assessing the credibility of witnesses. Anonymous sources and complaints will be investigated; however, the anonymity of the source or complaint will be considered when assessing the quality of the evidence. The administrator will determine whether it is more likely than not that the student-athlete has violated the Code.

Voluntary Referral Opportunity - - The requirements for a voluntary referral are set forth in the definitions section of this Handbook.

Timeliness

All Code assessments/penalties must be completed within sixty (60) days of the violation report. In the event that a Code violation occurs prior to the season/activity period in which the student will compete/participate, the playing time penalty may pass the sixty (60) day requirement. This portion of the Code will be exempt from the sixty (60) day requirement and will be fulfilled by the athlete at the start of the season or student at the start of the activity period. All other portions (assessments, etc.) will need to be completed within sixty (60) days of the violation report.

Consequences

Violations of the three (3) rules (Citizenship, Use, Selling) are cumulative. A subsequent violation of the Code will progress a student to the next disciplinary level (offense). For the purpose of accumulating violations of the Code, there shall be two (2) separate periods of academic life:

A. Grades 7 through 8, and

B. Grades 9 through 12

The first period will begin on August 1 of the student’s 7th grade year and will end the last official school day for grade 8; the second period will begin at the end of the first period and will end the last official school date for grade 12. Within each of these two (2) separate periods of academic life, violations of the Code shall be cumulative.

Student Conduct

Students attending contests involving Upper Arlington High School teams are expected to follow Ohio Capital Conference (OCC) Guidelines for all athletic contests. This includes no signs in the gym, on the field, or in the stands during a contest, and neither artificial noisemakers in the stands nor the use of confetti by cheerleaders or spectators. Additionally, at no time are fans permitted to be on the playing field, court, ice, etc., during or after a competition, unless an administrator gives permission after the opposing team has exited the playing area. For the safety of the student-athletes and spectators, fans must not storm the playing area after a contest. Failure to abide by these rules may result in disciplinary action. Students are encouraged to cheer for our athletic teams, not against our opponents (CHEER FOR THE BEARS!). Students failing to abide by these rules may be asked to leave the event and may not be permitted to attend other events. In addition to possible removal, students in violation of the above may be subject to disciplinary action upon their return to school following the event in question.

Family and Other Spectator Conduct (Policy 9160)

The Board of Education welcomes and encourages members of the community to attend athletic and other public events held by the schools in the district. Due to the need to maintain order and preserve the facilities of the district during such events, the Board retains the right to bar the attendance of or remove any person whose conduct may constitute a disruption at a school event. Prior to the beginning of each sport season, coaches will hold a parent meeting where the expectations for behavior and communications with other parents, students, coaches, and the student life department will be clearly articulated. Parent attendance is mandatory and will be documented by the coach. If a student or adult is asked to leave or is removed from a school event, no admission fees shall be refunded.

(Board Policies 5516, 5517, 5517.01)

It is the policy of the Board of Education to maintain an educational, extra-curricular, and work environment that is free from all forms of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and hazing. This commitment applies to all School District operations, programs, and activities on school property, or at another location if such conduct occurs during an activity sponsored by the Board.

The Board will vigorously enforce its prohibition against unlawful harassment, discrimination, and hazing, and encourages those within the School District community (students, administrations, staff, Board members, agents, volunteers, contractors, or other persons subject to the control and supervision of the Board) as well as third parties (visitors, parents, spectators, participants on opposing athletic teams, etc.) who feel aggrieved or have witnessed or have information regarding such actions to seek assistance to rectify the problems, whether it occurs on or off School District property. The Board will investigate all allegations of unlawful harassment, discrimination, and hazing, and in those cases where such actions are substantiated, the Board will take immediate steps to end the unlawful activity, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects. Individuals found to have engaged in unlawful harassment, discrimination, or hazing will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

The Board has designated the following individuals to serve as “Anti-Harassment Compliance Officers” for the District, and anyone should report concerns of unlawful harassment, discrimination, or hazing to these individuals:

Stephanie Siddens, Ph.D.
Deputy Superintendent
ssiddens@uaschools.org
614-487-5000

Greg Thompson
Chief Operating Officer
gcthompson@uaschools.org
614-487-5000

In addition, reports may always be made to the building principal.

Students will not be excused from school for extended periods of time to attend athletic contest, including tournament games unless:

1. the student is a member of the team (on roster of freshmen, junior varsity or varsity team).
2. the student is an immediate family member (e.g., brother or sister) of one of the student-athletes participating in the athletic contest.
3. a team or individual is competing in a state level tournament. In this case, a student requesting to attend must present a written note from a parent prior to 8:00 a.m. at the attendance counter.

It is the expectation that each team celebrates the end of the season with a banquet. The banquet is considered a school event which means they shall be held at school and that no prayer or invocation may be included. Each banquet will, at a minimum, include the individual recognition of seniors and their contributions to the team/program. All banquets must be held on Upper Arlington Schools’ grounds.

The criteria for earning a letter may vary from sport to sport because of different characteristics of each program. Each head coach will be permitted to determine the criteria necessary for earning awards and will make athletes aware of these criteria at the beginning of the season. Students have the opportunity to earn the following awards:

Freshmen Team: Freshmen Participation Certificate

Junior Varsity: Junior Varsity Participation Certificate

Varsity: Varsity Participation Certificate or Varsity Letter Certificate

First Year: Chenille Letter “A” with a pin for sport (One Chenille Letter per student and sport specific pins will be issued when student letters in each sport.)

Second Year: Service Bar

Third Year: Service Bar

Fourth Year: Service Bar and fourth year plaque

* Numerals will be given to freshmen who letter or during the sophomore year

A. Assessment: An evaluation by a certified chemical dependency counselor (CCDC) outside of but approved by the District. The CCDC will make an estimate or judgment as to the physical or psychological condition of the student.

B. Athletic Council: The governing body for athletics at the middle and high school levels. The Athletic Council consists of the Superintendent, an administrator from Jones, an administrator from Hastings, a High School administrator, the High School director of student life and assistant director of student life, the Middle School director of student life, and other members designated by the Superintendent.

C. Calendar year: The period of twelve (12) consecutive months.

D. Competition or participation: Games, matches, tournaments, meets, contests, performances, meetings, projects, etc. (during the regular season or post-season) in which the student is academically eligible and is physically able to participate. The percentage loss of “competition or participation” will extend into the next activity/sport season in which the student participates, if he or she has not completed the penalty imposed. For year-long clubs and organizations, a twenty percent (20%) loss of participation equates to nine (9) weeks and a fifty percent (50%) loss of participation equates to eighteen (18) weeks.

E. Drugs: (as defined in Board Policy 5610.06)

1. All dangerous controlled substances as so designated and prohibited by Ohio statute;

2. All chemicals which release toxic vapors;

3. Any product containing a substance that can provide an intoxicating or mood-altering effect;

4. All alcoholic beverages;

5. Any prescription or patent drug, except those for which permission to use in school has been granted pursuant to Board policy;

6. Build altering chemicals, including, without limitation, anabolic steroids, growth hormones, testosterone or its analogs, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), and other hormones;

7. Tobacco and tobacco products, including any substance containing tobacco, including smokeless tobacco, in the mouth to derive the effects of tobacco, as well as all uses of tobacco or tobacco substitutes, including cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, or any other matter or substances that contain tobacco, in addition to papers used to roll cigarettes and/or the smoking of electronic, "vapor," or other substitute forms of cigarettes, clove cigarettes or other lighted smoking devices for burning tobacco or any other substance;

8. Drug paraphernalia, including, without limitations, items described in twenty-one (21) United States Code Section 863, R.C. Section 2925.14, or Upper Arlington Codified Ordinance Section 511.07;

9. Mind altering chemicals, including without limitation, narcotics, depressants, stimulants, hallucinogens, marijuana, and prescription drugs, unless authorized by a medical prescription from a licensed physician. A student taking a prescription drug must do so in accordance with that prescription. The prescription must be kept in its original container, which states the student’s name and directions for proper use.

10. Any substance that is a "look-alike" to any of the above.

11. Unauthorized prescribed and prescribed-controlled substance and counterfeit controlled substance, including any of the following:

a. A drug, its container or label that bears a trademark, trade name, or other identifying mark used without authorization of the owner (manufacturer), or rights to its trademark, trade name, or identifying mark;

b. Any unmarked or unlabeled substance that is represented to be a controlled substance manufactured, processed, packaged, or distributed by a person other than the person that manufactured, processed, packaged, or distributed it;

c. Any substance that is represented to be a controlled substance but is not a controlled substance or is a different controlled substance;

d. Any substance other than a controlled substance that a reasonable person would believe to be a controlled substance because of its similarity in shape, size, and color, or its markings, labeling, packaging, distribution, or the price for which it is sold or offered for sale.

F. Family Assistance Program: Families who are interested in assistance for fees due to a financial hardship should contact the director of student life in advance of the start of the season and prior to the established due date for fees to be paid.

G. Intervention and Assistance Program: Help or aid secured from programs of the District, such as school-sponsored support groups or programs approved by the District.

H. Parent: The student’s parent, unless the rights of that parent have been restricted by court order or legal agreement, guardian, or legal custodian.

I. Possess: Either (a) physical or actual control of replace with reference and text in drug policy alcohol, mind altering chemicals, build altering chemicals, tobacco, drug paraphernalia, unauthorized prescribed or prescribed-controlled substance, counterfeit controlled substance (e.g. on person, in a locker, in book bag, or in student’s automobile); or (b) permitting other persons to possess alcohol, mind altering chemicals, build altering chemicals, drug paraphernalia, prescribed or prescribed-controlled substance, counterfeit controlled substances in locations (e.g. automobile, home, and such) for which the student has responsibility.

J. Student: For the purposes of this Code, any student who participates in any athletic program or extracurricular activity. Once a student participates in an athletic program or extracurricular activity, that student is a “student” for the purposes of this Code for the remainder of the period of academic life the student is in at that time. The Code is in effect for the entire period of the student’s academic life, whether the student is actively participating in an athletic season or extracurricular activity.

K. Under the influence: Manifesting signs of chemical misuse, such as staggering, reddened eyes, odor of chemicals, nervousness, restlessness, memory loss, abusive language, falling asleep in class, or any other behavior not normal for the particular student.

L. Voluntary Referral: A student may voluntarily report a code violation to any of the following: their coach, a staff member, their counselor, or an administrator. Any illegal conduct of any kind where the police are involved will be considered a code violation and the voluntary referral option is not available.

We have many great opportunities for our students at Upper Arlington Schools. An individual student who attempts to participate in too many extracurricular activities will, undoubtedly, be in a position of a conflict of obligations.

The Upper Arlington Schools Student Life Department recognizes that each student should have a broad range of experiences in the area of extracurricular activities; and to this end will attempt to schedule events in a manner so as to minimize conflicts.

Students have the responsibility to do everything they can to avoid a continuous conflict. This would include being cautious about belonging to too many activities where conflicts are bound to happen. It also means notifying the faculty sponsors or coaches involved immediately when a conflict arises. When conflicts arise, the coaches and sponsors will work together and try to work out a solution. In the event a solution is not reached, the coaches and sponsors will meet with a building administrator to reach a resolution.

Students are encouraged to be well-rounded individuals by participating in multiple sports and extracurriculars. Coaches are not to discourage, impede, or prohibit a student-athlete from being a multi-sport athlete.

Participation in interscholastic sports and extracurriculars is a vehicle for building positive relationships, fostering personal growth and perseverance, and learning ethical behavior.

A student-athlete should consult with their coach before missing a practice or event. Missing practice or a contest without good reason will be dealt with by our coaches. Sudden illness or some other emergency would be a good reason for missing practice or a contest, but does not relieve the athlete from first personally contacting the coach. While we understand the importance of vacations for families, vacations by athletic team members during the sport season are discouraged. Tryouts are mandatory for all teams where the number of student-athletes expressing interest in a team exceeds the number of spots available. Therefore, we advise families to avoid scheduling a vacation during tryouts. When an absence due to a vacation is unavoidable, a athlete must:

1. Contact the head coach prior to the vacation

2. Be willing to assume the consequences related to their status on that squad as a starter, 2nd string, 3rd string, or not a member of the team

If a student-athlete must miss tryouts due to a conflict with their participation in another UAHS sport or club, the student-athlete must work with the head coach to determine an alternative date to be evaluated.

The Upper Arlington Schools Student Life Department feels that team unity is very important and that traveling together aids in building team unity and chemistry. We request that each athlete go to and return from contests with the team. We understand there may be an occasional situation when such travel may not be practical. In such cases, the parent should personally contact the coach, well in advance, to ask permission for other arrangements. Pursuant to Board Policy, athletes shall not be transported by anyone other than their parents or adults who have been given permission by the parents. (Board Policy 8660, 8650; Admin. Guideline 2340A; Forms 8660F1, 8660F2)

(Board Policy 9160)

No qualified person with a disability will be denied the benefits of, be excluded from participation in, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity to which Section 504/ADA applies. The District is committed to operating its programs and activities so that they are readily accessible to persons with disabilities. In accordance with state and federal law, the district will provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities who wish to attend and/or participate in school events. Such individuals should notify the Superintendent if they require reasonable accommodation.

As part of a cooperative agreement between the Upper Arlington City School District and The Ohio State University, two full-time athletic trainers are available for the Upper Arlington High School Student Life Department. Athletic trainers are health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to optimize activity and participation of patients and clients. Athletic training encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, and intervention of emergency, acute, and chronic medical conditions involving impairment, functional limitations, and disabilities.

The athletic trainers will abide by all laws or rules that govern the practice of athletic training as dictated by the Ohio Athletic Training Licensure Board and the Code of Ethics set forth by the National Athletic Trainers Association.

Return to Play

All return to play decisions will be determined based on the lowest possible chance of re-injury. Any parties involved in the return to play decision (including the student-athlete, athletic trainers, physicians, coaches and student-athlete’s parents/guardians) must be in agreement with any return to play decisions. If a deciding party has concerns they will be addressed and the return to play decision will be postponed until all parties are in agreement.

Athletic Training Room Hours

An athletic trainer will be available in the school athletic training room:

• during the school lunch hours Monday-Friday for treatment and rehabilitation by appointment;
• Monday-Friday from 2:00 p.m. until a half-hour after the last home event ends;
• Saturdays a half-hour before the start of the first practice or one hour before the start of the first event.

The athletic training room is closed Sundays.

Athletic Training Room Rules

The following rules will be strictly enforced in athletic training rooms:

1. Athletic trainers, fellow student-athletes, and all equipment shall be treated with respect.
2. All athletes must sign in on the treatment book.
3. Equipment in the athletic training room may only be used by permission of athletic trainers.
4. Food, equipment bags, and cleats shall remain outside the training rooms.

Physician Referrals

If a referral is needed to a physician, the student-athlete’s parents/guardians have a right to choose the physician. If they would like assistance in securing an appointment they can turn to the athletic training staff for guidance. Any student who incurs an injury requiring a physician's care is to have the written approval of a physician prior to the student's return to participation.

Being released back to participation by a physician does not imply full release back to activity that day. The student-athlete is released back to the athletic training staff and coach for an appropriate progression back to full play.

Use of Medication

All use of medication shall be in accordance with Policy and Administrative Guideline 5330. Parents should cooperatively determine with the counsel of their child’s prescriber whether the medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school hours. Before the student will be permitted to take medication during school hours, use an inhaler to self-administer asthma medication, or use an epinephrine auto injector (epi-pen), Form 5330 F1, Parent Request and Authorization to Administer a Prescribed Medication/Drug or Treatment, Form 5330 F1d, Request for Administration of Medication by Authorized Preschool Staff Member, Form 5330 F3, Authorization for the Possession and Use of Asthma Inhaler/Other Emergency Medication(s), or Form 5330 F4, Authorization for the Possession and Use of Epinephrine Autoinjector (epi-pen) must be filed annually and as necessary for any change in medication order with the school principal and to the school nurse, if one is assigned to the student’s building.

Parent/Guardian Notification

Injuries are a part of every sport on every level. If a student-athlete has been seen by an athletic trainer for an injury that requires more treatment than general ice, the athletic trainer will contact the student-athlete’s legal guardian within 24 hours via phone call or injury note sent home with the student-athlete. If the injury requires more medical attention, the athletic trainer will make all attempts to call the student-athlete’s legal guardian that day.

Post-Concussion Return to Play

If at any point during the progression there is a return of the concussion signs or symptoms, the student-athlete’s progression will be stopped until symptom-free for 24 hours. The athlete will then continue with the progression as determined by the athletic trainers and medical director. Any athlete participating must complete a guided return to play protocol approved by a treating physician. Any student-athlete who has been removed from practice or competition by a coach or referee because he/she has exhibited signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with having sustained a concussion or head injury shall not be permitted to return to any practice or competition for which the coach or referee is responsible until both of the following occur:

1. The student-athlete’s condition is assessed by a physician in accordance with requirements set forth in R.C. 3313.539(E), to assess such a student.
2. The student-athlete receives written clearance that it is safe to return to practice or competition from a physician in accordance with requirements set forth in R.C. 3313.539(E), to grant such a clearance.

While it is not mandatory, we highly recommend that our students actively engage in off-season team lifts and conditioning. By doing so, student-athletes position themselves for success in divisional, conference, and state competitions. Regular participation in out-of-season fitness programming not only enhances physical fitness and conditioning but also plays a crucial role in preventing injuries.

At Upper Arlington High School, we wholeheartedly support students who choose to pursue participation in multiple sports. Our 32 head coaches collaborate to ensure that the unique needs of each individual student-athlete are met. During the in-season period, we expect student-athletes to exclusively partake in scheduled training sessions with their respective in-season teams. Any exceptions to this expectation should be communicated directly between the head coaches and the student-athlete.

Recognizing the diverse goals of our student-athletes and their families, we acknowledge that they may choose to train in their off-season with the sport of their preference. We kindly request that multi-sport athletes communicate directly with their head coaches to specify the team they plan to train with during the off-season.

In the event that a student-athlete opts to participate in multiple programs during the off-season, a comprehensive plan will be developed collaboratively between our head coaches and fitness directors. This ensures that student-athletes receive balanced training, preventing overexertion while fostering skill development for both sports. It is imperative that student-athletes adhere to the guidance provided by the coaches to prevent over-training.

For any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to the Student Life Office or connect with your head coach for additional clarification. Your commitment to the success and well-being of our student-athletes is greatly appreciated.

The Upper Arlington Schools Student Life Department utilizes the online program Final Forms for families to register student-athletes. By following the instructions below, families can input required legal information, access physical forms, and stay connected with Student Life Department announcements in the future. All student-athletes must be registered on FinalForms BEFORE the first day of coaching.

Parent registration

How do I sign up for the first time?

1. Go to: upperarlingtoncity-oh.finalforms.com
2. Locate the parent icon and click NEW ACCOUNT, then follow the steps to create your account.
3. Type your YOUR NAME, DATE OF BIRTH, and EMAIL. Next, click REGISTER.
   NOTE: You will receive an email within 2 minutes prompting you to confirm and complete your registration. If you do not receive an email, then check your spam folder. If you still can not locate the FinalForms email, then email support@finalforms.com informing our team of the issue.
4. Check your email for an ACCOUNT CONFIRMATION EMAIL from the FinalForms Mailman. Once received and opened, click CONFIRM YOUR ACCOUNT in the email text.
5. Create your new FinalForms password. Next, click CONFIRM ACCOUNT.
6. Click REGISTER STUDENT for your first child.

Registering a student

What information will I need?

Basic medical history and health information. Insurance company and policy number. Doctor, dentist, and medical specialist contact information. Hospital preference and contact information.

How do I register my first student?

IMPORTANT: If you followed the steps on the previous page, you may Jump to Step number 3.

1. Go to: upperarlingtoncity-oh.finalforms.com
2. Click LOGIN under the Parent Icon, then login.
3. Locate and click the ADD STUDENT button.
4. Type in the LEGAL NAME and other required information. Then, click CREATE STUDENT.
5. Select Yes, new enrollment
6. Complete each form and sign your full name (i.e. ‘Jonathan Smith’) in the parent signature field on each page. After signing each, click SUBMIT FORM and move on to the next form.
7. When all forms are complete, you will see a ‘Forms Finished’ message.

IMPORTANT: If required by your district, an email will automatically be sent to the email address that you provided for your student that will prompt your student to sign required forms.

How do I register additional students?

Click MY STUDENTS. Then, repeat steps number 3 through number 7 for each additional student.

How do I update information?

Login at any time and click UPDATE FORMS to update information for any student.