Bill proposes new concussion protocols for schools

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Pending in the Capitol right now, a bill that will update or set clearer protocols for school districts when it comes to concussed students.

Senate Bill 2398, focuses on policies and procedures related to concussions or other brain injuries sustained by public school students. This applies to all students, not just athletes.

Therefore, it will need to be something that school districts follow more closely in a regular classroom setting

For schools, this may mean relying more on the expertise student athletic departments bring when it comes to concussion protocols. The Athletics Department Director in Sharyland, Ron Adame, said that keeping students' safety first at all times is what it's all about.

Like in several other schools in the Valley, Sharyland ISD Athletics follows a strict protocol when it comes to concussions. The staff is trained to prevent, treat and oversee concussed students.

Here are some of the guidelines the bill suggests school districts should follow: Develop and offer a list of non-medical accommodations to students with diagnosed concussions or other brain injuries, and then publish those guidelines on the school's website.

This is what Senate Bill 2398 wants from school districts: A similar game plan to athletics, the district should come up with a list of non-medical academic accommodations for all students diagnosed with a concussion or brain injury.