Concussions

There's a good NBC News article about concussions in youth activities on their website.  Although the article's thesis statement is presented as  a "new" mantra, it's what we've been using at SMS all year, "when in doubt, sit them out."  Adolescent brains are at risk to long term damage from repeated concussions and even one will impact learning for a period of time.

Co-curricular activities are an amazing part of the school experience and provide excellent opportunities for our students to develop teamwork and time management skills and to dedicate themselves to the task at hand. However, as we learn more about how the brain works and the damage concussions can cause long term, we always want to take the utmost caution when dealing with head injuries.  That's why we've implemented ImPact testing for middle school students in contact and collison sports as well as developed a concussion protocol for returning to participation after a diagnosed or suspected concussion.  We want our students to participate, but we value their long term health and safety more than anything.

Track and Swing Choir Pictures

Pictures for track and swing choir will be taken after school on Friday, March 15th.  Students in these activities should report to the gym after school.  Picture packets are available from Mrs. Woodard for swing choir and Mrs. Vette for track.

If you have any questions, please contact the school at 717-1215.  Mrs. Woodard can also be reached at mwoodard@spearfish.k12.sd.us.  Mrs. Vette's email is lvette@spearfish.k12.sd.us.