By Patrick Baron

NORMAL – The Unit 5 School Board is looking at a proposal to broaden the treatment of concussions in schools.

Concussions are becoming increasingly prevalent in the sport world, which prompted Unit 5 to examine the way concussions are treated in schools. Unit 5 board member Barry Hitchins explained the big difference between professional and high school athletics is that professionals have access to multiple medical professionals, while students do not.

“If a student exhibits any symptoms of sustaining a head injury, they do get pulled out,” said Hitchins. “And there have been procedures in place, but this is just adding a lot more rigor around at what point that can begin reengaging with their sports.”

While concussions are seen as more common in sports, Hitchins explained students across the board could be susceptible to a concussion at any given time.

“Our new procedures also cover anyone who may be injured during recess, or P.E., or things like marching band,” said Hitchins. “You’d be shocked how many kids trip while practicing for some performance and they sustain a head injury.”

The proposals will be voted on at the next board meeting. If approved, the measures would be implemented immediately.

Patrick Baron can be reached at [email protected]