Student-Athlete Health & Safety

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body. Even a mild concussion can have serious consequences if not properly treated.

Under California Education Code §49475:

• Student-athletes suspected of sustaining a concussion must be immediately removed from play.
• The student may not return to participation until evaluated and cleared in writing by a licensed healthcare provider.
• Parents/guardians and student-athletes must annually review and sign a concussion information sheet.

Concussion Information (English)

Concussion Information (Spanish)

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening emergency that can occur during physical activity.

Under California Education Code §33479-33479.8:

• Students exhibiting symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest must be removed from play.
• The student may not return until cleared by a licensed healthcare provider.
• Parents/guardians and student-athletes must review and sign the required information sheet annually.

Download the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Information (English)

Download the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Information (Spanish)

California law requires schools to provide opioid safety information to student-athletes and their families.

Opioid medications carry serious risks, including dependence and overdose. Students should only take medications prescribed directly to them by a licensed healthcare provider.

Download the Opioid Safety Information (English)

Download the Opioid Safety Information (Spanish)

llicit fentanyl has significantly increased the risk of accidental overdose nationwide. Counterfeit pills may resemble prescription medications but can contain lethal amounts of fentanyl.

ASJUSD provides district-wide prevention education and resources for families.

Visit the District Fentanyl Awareness & Prevention page for important information and resources.

Participation in outdoor athletics increases the risk of heat-related illness, particularly during warm weather.  Heat illness can range from heat cramps and heat exhaustion to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.

Under California Education Code §35179.1:

• Schools must provide heat illness prevention information to student-athletes.
• Student-athletes suspected of heat illness must be removed from activity immediately.
• Emergency procedures must be followed when symptoms are present.

Signs of heat illness may include:

• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Headache
• Confusion
• Hot, dry skin or heavy sweating

Student-athletes should:

• Stay hydrated before, during, and after activity
• Take scheduled water breaks
• Report symptoms immediately
• Avoid overexertion in extreme heat

Download the California Department of Public Health Heat Risk Grid (English)

Download the California Department of Public Health Heat Risk Grid (Spanish)

All ASJUSD athletic programs:

• Maintain emergency response procedures
• Ensure trained personnel are present at athletic events and practices
• Follow return-to-play guidelines required by California law
• Prioritize student safety above competition

If you have questions regarding student-athlete health requirements, please contact the site athletic director or school site office staff.