Concussion testing mandated by MAPS Board
MARQUETTE — The Marquette Area Public Schools Board voted unanimously to require student athletes to take concussion baseline tests.
The athletes will have to pay two dollars for the tests, which they’ll take every two years.
Board members say it’s a small price to pay for the increased safety they’ll get in return. They say the tests will keep students safer in the long run.
Concussion tests are taken at the start of the season and are used by doctors to help decide when an athlete can return to their sport or class after getting a concussion.
“It helps the athlete if they want to get back out and play; it might help them get back sooner, but at the same time it could help curb some long-term effects from serious concussions to adolescents,” said MAPS Board President, Tony Retaskie.
The board also discussed strategies to get the word out about their bond proposal which would levy 1.5 mills if passed in November.