ERIC Number: EJ1239640
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019
Pages: 9
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-2160-1682
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Concussion Litigation and the Return-to-School Plan
Bomgardner, Richard
Physical Educator, v76 n5 p1387-1395 2019
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in sports are common themes of discussion among coaches, parents, and students. The spotlight on these injuries has broadened awareness levels within different populations. In 2017, an estimated 2.5 million high school students reported having at least one sports- or physical activity-related concussion and an estimated 1 million students reported having two or more (DePadilla, Miller, Jones, Peterson, & Breiding, 2018). The National Conference of State Legislatures reported within the United States in 2017, less than 10 states have laws requiring return-to-learn (RTL) protocols for students with TBIs. More important, only two states require RTL protocols to be evidence-based as well as provide education for school personnel. Therefore, the majority of states have no legislation to help guide high schools on RTL education programs or protocols. Decreases in academic performance, problems with readjusting to the classroom, and reoccurring or worsening symptoms in school are some of the difficulties post-concussion students face when returning to the learning environment (Arbogast et al., 2013; Baker et al., 2015; Brown et al., 2015; Carson et al., 2014; Darling et al., 2014; Eisenberg, Meehan, & Mannix, 2014). It would seem imperative for schools to educate their teachers, coaches, and staff on appropriate accommodations, RTS management strategies, and levels of communication. Professional development activities would provide further opportunities to review the RTS plan, discuss successful academic interventions, and facilitate efficient lines of communication so that school personnel can foster a positive learning environment. Litigation from concussions or TBIs sustained during participation in sports has become a focal point in various athletic levels ranging from youth to professional sports. Although no litigation thus far has stemmed from reduction of post-concussion academic performance due to inefficient school supports, the case could be made if schools do not have a structured and effective RTS plan.
Descriptors: Head Injuries, Brain, Athletics, High School Students, Reentry Students, Student Needs, Special Needs Students, Student Adjustment, Planning, Professional Development, Teamwork, Court Litigation
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: High Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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