The Guilderland Central School District prides itself on being a leader in providing opportunities for students to display their talent and hard work in a variety of contests and competitions. Co-curricular activities, including athletic events, are an important part of our secondary educational program because they continue to promote social, emotional and/or physical growth outside the school day. Athletics, particularly, can foster teamwork, health and physical fitness, school spirit and community involvement. It is a critical part of our overall program for both the participants and the spectators.
Our student-athletes have been recognized for their attitude and sportsmanship on the field, as well as their scholarly achievements off the playing fields. As a player or spectator, the expectation for Guilderland students is that they will display exemplary conduct, positive school spirit, and good sportsmanship.
Over the past several athletic seasons, especially during the fall season, a growing number of elementary and middle school students have attended our athletic contests. Unfortunately, there have been more and more incidents of misconduct and inappropriate behavior by students who have been left unsupervised while attending these contests. Students as young as fourth grade have been dropped off prior to the game and then picked up at the conclusion of the game. This has been particularly noticeable at evening home football games, where as many as 2,500 people may attend.
While the school district has numerous chaperones to supervise the games, we have become increasingly concerned about the safety of our elementary and middle school aged students who attend without an adult. To be proactive and protective, we have instituted the following procedure for all evening/night sport contests held at Guilderland High School.
Please be advised of the following procedures:
- Middle school and elementary school students may attend home evening/night contests only when accompanied by an adult who will attend the game with them and maintains responsibility for their safety and behavior throughout the game.
- Elementary and middle school students who arrive at the gate or door without an adult will be held there until an adult can arrive to pick them up to take them home or attend the athletic contest with them.
- High School students may enter the game without an adult. However, they must be prepared to show proper identification if a staff member requests it.
We believe that these procedures will help to ensure that our school facilities and activities are a safe and healthy place for everyone to use and enjoy. If we work together, we will be able to model for our younger students the appropriate behaviors and expectations we have for the Guilderland school community. If you have concerns, questions or comments about this change in procedure, please feel free to contact us. We thank you for your continued support and cooperation.