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ATHLETIC DEPARTMENTPOLICIES & PROCEDURES

HANDBOOK

MUSKOGEE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

202 West Broadway - Muskogee, OK 74401Athletic Office (918) 684-3828 - Fax (918) 684-3893

Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook

Mandatory Student Forms

Rank One:

The Athletic Department requires all student athletes and their parents/guardians to complete the required athletic participation paperwork online at Rank One. Rank One can be found on the MPS athletic website. All head coaches will build their team’s roster each year on Rank One. If an individual is highlighted green they may participate. If an individual is highlighted red they should not be allowed to participate until cleared by the athletic department.

Sports Physicals:

The physical will be valid from the date of the physical given until the next required physical. Parents/guardians must sign the parental consent form each year before the student participates in any organized athletic practice session including contest participation. Physical must be dated after May 1 and will be scanned in to their Rank One file by the athletic trainer.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MISSION STATEMENT

* MPS Mission Statement………...…………………………………7* MPS Athletic Mission Statement………………………………….7* The Philosophy of the Muskogee Athletic Department…………...7* Purpose of This Handbook………………………………………...7

INTRODUCTION

* Introduction – Muskogee Policies & Procedures Handbook……....9* Muskogee Coaches Code of Ethics……………………..……..…...9* Muskogee Coaches Behavior……………………………………....9* Note of Gratitude…………………………………………………...9

JOB DESCRIPTIONS

* Head Coach……………………………………………………..11-12* Assistant Coach…………………………………………………12-13* Lay Coach………………………………………………………13-14* Volunteer Coach………………………………………………...14-15* Athletic Trainer…………………………………………………15-19* Baseball/Softball Grounds Person………………………………19-20

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook* Athletic Goals and Objectives……………………………………...22* Code of Ethics………………………………………………………23* Expectations of a Muskogee Coach……………………………..23-24* Oklahoma Coaches Association…………………………………….24

* Helpful Hints to Help Avoid Litigation…………………………24-25* Supervision…………………………………………………………26* Perception is Reality………………………………………………..26* Communication……………………………………………………..26* Communication Guidelines………………………………………...26* Pre-Season Parent/Guardian Meeting…………………………..26-27* Interaction with Concerned Parents/Guardians..…………………...27* Documentation……………………………………………………...28* Parents Booster Clubs………………………………………………28* Stay Professional……………………………………………………28* Public Relations…………………………………………………….28* Athletic Media/Internal Communications…………………………..29* Reporting to the Athletic Department………………………………30* Media Policy………………………………………………………..30

OSSAA GUIDELINES

* Scholastic Eligibility……………………………………………32-34* 10 Day Activity……………………………………………………..34* Attendance………………………………………………………….34* Coaches Responsibility……………………………………………..34* Recruiting Regulations……………………………………………...34* Instructions for Sanctioning an Event……………………………34-35* Sanctioning for Interstate Athletic Events…………………………..35* Out-Of-State Events and Recruiting trips……………………….35-36

FINANCIAL PROCEDURES

* Athletic Purchasing Procedures…………………………………….38* Fund Raising for Booster Clubs…………………………………….39

ATHLETIC PROCEDURES

* Chain of Communication……………………………………………41* Professional Days and Secondary PT Conferences…………………41* Tryout Policy……………………………………………………41-42* Transportation Guidelines…………………………………………..42* Student Athletes Changing Sports in Mid-Season…..……………...43* Student Athletes Changing Sports at the End of the Season...……...43* Student Athletes Quitting a Sport before Its Conclusion……...……43* Coaches Changing to another Sport………………………………..43* Seventh Hour Sports and Attendance……………………………….43* Guidelines for Overnight Trips………………………………….44-45

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook* Discrimination – Harassment………………………………………..45* Harassment – Hazing – Bullying……………………………………45* Sexual Harassment…………………………………………………..45* Staff and Student Athlete Absences…………………………………46

* Cancellation and Re-Scheduling of Events………………………….47* Facilities0…………………...……………………………………….47* Camp Procedure………………………………………………….47-48* Rank One……………………………………………………...……..48* Physical Examinations……………………………………………48-49* Injuries……………………………………………………………….49

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MISSIONSTATEMENT

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MUSKOGEE PUBLIC SCHOOLS MISSION STATEMENT

It is our mission to provide our community of learners with educational opportunities to acquire and develop the best possible academic, vocational, recreational, social and participatory skills, enabling them to become valued contributing members of a changing, global society.

MUSKOGEE ATHLETIC MISSION STATEMENT

It is our mission to provide all Muskogee students:

INSTRUCTION in developing strong, fit bodies and fostering personal growth;OPPORTUNITY to experience healthy competition and team work;ENCOURAGEMENT to give full effort to academics as well as athletics; andASSISTANCE in continuing educational, athletic and fitness pursuits after graduation from Muskogee Public Schools and into their adult years.

THE PHILOSOPHY OF THE MUSKOGEE ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Our athletic programs represent a significant area in the educational experiences of the students in the Muskogee Public School District and should be geared toward providing opportunities for all students to get involved, whether they are participating or supporting a team. Athletics should offer an opportunity to gain physical skills, a sense of worth and competency, and to learn the principles of fair play. Our programs should represent a means of combining home, school and the community in an effort to provide our student athletes with the opportunities to compete against other schools, acquire new friendships, build community spirit and develop good sportsmanship. Each athletic program must be considered an integral part of our school curriculum to be successful. Athletics help the student athletes to achieve a higher standard of mental, moral, social and physical fitness. Through athletic competition, the player relates the rules of the game to the rules of life. The athletic program contributes to school spirit and offers the best means of a close, wholesome relationship between the school and the community it represents.

PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK

The purpose of this handbook is to help identify responsibilities for coaches and administrators. It will define policies and procedures for organizing, scheduling and administering athletic events. It will provide guidelines for maintaining the smooth operation of our athletic programs. This handbook is designed to ease the pressures encountered in the day-to-day operation of an effective and efficient program. It is designed to eliminate unreasonable constraints that might deter maximum participation and discourage the genuine benefits of student athletes. An important aspect of this handbook will be to acquaint all of our coaches with the rules and regulations of their appropriate organizations and to

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbookbetter be able to prepare young student athletes for their futures, both athletically and academically. With the cooperation of all coaches and administrative staff, we will install a program to continually evaluate our programs, insuring that athletic competition in the Muskogee Public School District will be kept at the highest possible level.

INTRODUCTION

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INTRODUCTION – MUSKOGEE POLICIES & PROCEDURES HANDBOOK

This handbook establishes policies, procedures and guidelines for the Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department. It should act as a convenient reference for coaches concerning the policies and procedures of the Muskogee Athletic Department. Each coach should become familiar with this handbook and follow the policies in good faith.

Muskogee Coaches Code of Ethics

Over the years, Muskogee’s coaches have exhibited enthusiastic, caring attitudes, superior athletic knowledge and sportsmanship. This tradition has helped Muskogee student athletes to develop physical skills and exhibit wholesome school spirit and attitudes. Muskogee coaches must be a positive influence for Muskogee student athletes who enter college or the workplace and become leaders of the future.

Muskogee Coaches Behavior

On the athletic field, in the gymnasium or on the court, Muskogee coaches must represent themselves and Muskogee in the most professional manner. Behavior, dress and demeanor must be consistent with the values and philosophy of Muskogee Public Schools. If a coach’s habit or conduct either in or out of school are such as to make the coach unworthy to represent the values, principles and standards of Muskogee Public Schools, she/he will be removed from her/his coaching responsibilities. The Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) Code of Ethics must be followed by all Muskogee Public School coaches.

A Note of Gratitude

The Muskogee Athletic Department appreciates all those who through their support have helped bring Muskogee Athletic program to excellence. The continued cooperation among administration, coaches, student athletes, parents/guardians, faculty, alumnae and boosters has brought Muskogee Athletics state and national recognition. We know this tradition will continue, and Muskogee asks for all those involved in Muskogee athletics to continue to strive for excellence.

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JOBDESCRIPTIONS

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HEAD COACH – JOB DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS: Oklahoma Teacher Certificate preferred Successful completion of “Care & Prevention of Athletic Injuries”Successful completion of (All first year coaches,

anyone in their first year in the coaching profession, and any coach considered to be adjunct/volunteer personnel) “NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Course”Successful completion of “Heat Related Illness”Successful completion of “NFHS Concussion in Sports Course”Successful completion of “First Aid and CPR Course”Cheer Coach will be required to complete the “AACCA Safety Course rather than the Fundamentals of Coaching Course”

REPORTS TO: Athletic Director

SUPERVISES: Assistant Coach, Lay/Volunteer coaches and student athletes

JOB GOALS: To develop and improve the athletic program and to promote the school and community pride.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supervise assistant coaching staff.

Responsible for implementing and following Muskogee Public Schools Activity Student Drug Screening/Testing Policy.

Schedule games, tournaments, etc.

Head Coach will be responsible for implementing and supervising an off season program.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookBe positive role model for student athletes on and off the field.

Encourage student athletes to be successful on the field and in the classroom.

Make sure all student athletes are academically and otherwise eligible to play by checking the eligibility list each week.

Make sure all student athletes have current physical forms on file in the Athletic Department(student athletes may not practice or play without a physical form).

Make sure current/updates rosters, purchase requisitions, invoices and other necessary paperwork is turned in to the Athletic Department in a timely manner.

Assist student athletes in preparing for colleges and obtaining scholarships.

Maintain equipment, uniforms, etc. properly.

Maintain, secure and report needed repairs of athletic facilities.

Report scores of all games to the local news agencies.

Maintain good parents/guardians, community and public relations.

Schedule needed transportation for games.

Have proper medical equipment bag at all times (practices, games, etc.).

Perform any other duties necessary to fulfill the functions of the Athletic Department or which may be assigned by the Athletic Director.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary and work year to be established by Contract. Some duties may extend through the summer months.

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on Evaluation of Certified and Support Personnel, and the Action Plan designed by the Head Coach.

ASSISTANT COACH – JOB DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS: Oklahoma Teacher Certificate preferredSuccessful completion of “Care & Prevention of Athletic Injuries”Successful completion of (All first year coaches, anyone in their first year in the coaching profession, and any coach considered to be adjunct/volunteer personnel) “NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Course”Successful completion of “Heat Related Illness”

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookSuccessful completion of “NFHS Concussion in Sports Course”Successful completion of “First Aid and CPR Course”Cheer Coach will be required to complete the “AACCA Safety Course rather than the Fundamentals of Coaching Course”Successful completion of “Commercial Driver’s License Course”

REPORTS TO: Head Coach/Athletic Director

SUPERVISES: Lay/Volunteer coaches and Student Athletes

JOB GOALS: To develop and improve the athletic program and to promotethe school and community pride.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:Be positive role model for student athletes on and off the field.

Encourage student athletes to be successful on the field and in the classroom.

Make sure all student athletes are academically and otherwise eligible to play bychecking the eligibility list each week.

Make sure all student athletes have current physical forms on file in the Athletic Department(student athletes may not practice or play without a physical form)

Make sure current/updates rosters, purchase requisitions, invoices and other necessarypaperwork is turned in to the Athletic Department in a timely manner.

Assist student athletes in preparing for colleges and obtaining scholarships.

Maintain equipment, uniforms, etc. properly.

Maintain, secure and report needed repairs of athletic facilities.

Report scores of all games to the local news agencies.

Maintain good parents/guardians, community and public relations.

Schedule needed transportation for games.

Have proper medical equipment bag at all times (practices, games, etc.).

Perform any other duties necessary to fulfill the functions of the Athletic Departmentor which may be assigned by the Athletic Director.


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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookEVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on Evaluation of Certified and Support Personnel, and the Action Plan designed by the Head Coach.

LAY COACH – JOB DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS: College degree and Oklahoma teaching certificate is preferred.Reputable background working with youth.Previous coaching or playing experience in the assigned positionis preferred.Successful completion of “Care & Prevention of Athletic Injuries”

Successful completion of (All first year coaches, anyone in their first year in the coaching profession, and any coach considered to be adjunct/volunteer personnel) “NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Course”Successful completion of “Heat Related Illness”Successful completion of “NFHS Concussion in Sports Course”Successful completion of “First Aid and CPR Course”Cheer Coach will be required to complete the “AACCA Safety Course rather than the Fundamentals of Coaching Course”Successful completion of “Commercial Driver’s License Course”

REPORTS TO: Head Coach/Asst. Coach/Athletic Director

SUPERVISES: Student athletes.



Is aware of and attends all required meetings.

Has daily contact with the head coach for the purpose of communication.

Follows all the criteria as outlined in the job descriptions for the head coach and theassistant coaches.

Possesses an enthusiastic and positive attitude.

Has a signed contract on file in the athletic office.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Salary and work year to be established by Contract.Some duties may extend through the summer months.

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbookof the Board’s policy on Evaluation of Certified and Support Personnel, and the Action Plan designed by the Head Coach.

VOLUNTEER COACH – JOB DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS: Reputable background working with youth.Previous coaching or playing experience in the assigned positionis preferred.Successful completion of “Care & Prevention of Athletic Injuries”

Successful completion of (All first year coaches, anyone in their first year in the coaching profession, and any coach considered to be adjunct/volunteer personnel) “NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Course”Successful completion of “Heat Related Illness”Successful completion of “NFHS Concussion in Sports Course”Successful completion of “First Aid and CPR Course”Cheer Coach will be required to complete the “AACCA Safety Course rather than the Fundamentals of Coaching Course”


SUPERVISES: Student athletes.



Is aware of and attends all required meetings.


Follows all the criteria as outlined in the job descriptions for the head coach and theassistant coaches.


Must have Muskogee Public Schools Volunteer Program form on file.

ATHLETIC TRAINER – JOB DESCRIPTION

QUALIFICATIONS: Certified ATC and LAT

RECOMMENDED: Oklahoma Teaching Certificate & CPR Certification

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REPORTS TO: Athletic Director

SUPERVISES: Student AidsStudent Athletes

JOB GOALS: To develop a program that will evaluate, advise, and treat athletes to assist recovery from injury, avoid injury, or maintain peak physical fitness.


STANDARD I - Quality and Timeliness of Work: The amount of satisfactory output.

1. Answers to pages or calls promptly. 2. Demonstrates ability to prioritize and organize time by completing work within assigned

events. 3. Accepts additional responsibilities and duties as assigned by the Athletic Director or Assistant

Athletic Director. 4. Schedules athlete treatment and/or other intervention as necessary and established. 5. Promptly begins work assignments after receiving instructions in accordance with established

policy. 6. Maintains awareness of current policies and procedures. 7. Maintains confidentiality of athlete injury information. 8. Attends department staff meetings as established. 9. Abides by all established policy and procedures specific to the athletic healthcare program,

athletic department, and Muskogee Public Schools. 10. Communicates reports in a concise, informative manner. 11. Verifies physician order in accordance with established athletic health care policy. 12. Documents in athletic health care notebook as appropriate. 13. Maintains all athletic training documentation in concise and legible manner. 14. Maintains injury data information in proper order and reported in pre-assigned time frame.

STANDARD II - Prevention of Athletic Injuries: Design and Implement Prevention programs.

1. Determination of an student athlete’s physical readiness to participate and communication of this to the Head Coach.

2. Knowledge of normal anatomical structure and function. 3. Knowledge of physiological demand and response to exercise. 4. Knowledge of normal biomechanical demands of exercise. 5. Presentation of educational programs for the healthy and injured student athletes.(i.e., alcohol

and other drug abuse, performance anxiety) 6. Knowledge of nutritional demands of the athlete. 7. Knowledge of contraindications and side effects of prescription and non-prescription

medications. 8. Knowledge of absorption, dissipation, and transmission of energy of varying materials.(i.e.,

protective padding) 9. Knowledge of legal requirements and rules of the athletic event.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook10. Implementation of student athletic training programs in a classroom setting.

STANDARD III - Job Knowledge: Understanding of job duties, know-how in performing assigned tasks.

1. Works confidently in crisis or emergency situation. 2. Demonstrates knowledge of safety practices. 3. Uses assigned athletic training equipment safely and efficiently. 4. Develops treatment programs in accordance with findings of evaluations and goals established

by the injury assessment or by the treating physician. 5. Assesses student athlete’s status in response to treatment and modifies programs as appropriate. 6. Applies treatment procedures and modalities in accordance with established indications and

contraindications.

STANDARD III (continued)

7. Prepares student athletes for treatment and insures comfort and safety of student athletes. 8. Instructs student athletes in therapeutic exercise, and strength and conditioning programs. 9. Informs student athletes and families of important aspects of student athlete’s present

condition, including concussion, wound care, first aide and follow-up care. 10. Informs physician of any necessary documentation or observable signs that need investigation. 11. Maintains statistics and injury logs as established. 12. Able to perform duties in an efficient and independent manner with minimal supervision. 13. Can master new work routines and use new equipment without the need for repetitive

instruction. 14. Willing to learn from the knowledge and experience of others. 15. Willing to ask questions when not sure of the correct action to take.

STANDARD IV - Dependability: Reliability and persistence in following through with assignments on schedule and to follow policies and rules.

1. Reports for event coverage and meetings at designated time. 2. Adheres to proper work schedule. 3. Gives proper notice of absences and tardiness. 4. Does not have excessive tardiness. 5. Does not have excessive absenteeism from work. 6. Is flexible in accepting temporary work and duty assignments. 7. Accepts policies and their modifications without complaints. 8. Maintains physical environment in an effective, organized manner. 9. Willing to cover sporting events after hours if needed. 10. Works effectively with team physician in sports coverage setting when appropriate.

STANDARD V - Ambition/Initiative: Willingness to put forth effort in starting an activity, contribute to new ideas or seek improvement.

1. Is willing to learn new athletic training techniques, procedures and equipment. 2. Prevents/corrects problems or unsafe conditions.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook3. Assists in preparing athletic training equipment for use. 4. Attends and participates in athletic training program meetings and in-services. 5. Maintains level of skill and expertise consistent with the latest theory and techniques. 6. Maintains and insures safe operation of all athletic training equipment. 7. Recommends new equipment and supplies to ensure optimum quality of athlete’s care. 8. Assumes additional responsibilities and duties as requested by the program manager or other

designee. 9. Is willing to teach new techniques of Athletic healthcare to staff when needed. 10. Assist student athletes in preparing for colleges and obtaining scholarships.11. Have a plan to encourage student athletes to take ACT.

STANDARD VI - Recognition, Evaluation, and Immediate care of Athletic Injuries:

1. Identification of underlying trauma.

2. Recognition of signs and symptoms of athletic injury and illness. 3. Recognition of systemic and local metabolic failure. 4. Recognition of pathomechanics. 5. Recognition of the psychological signs and symptoms of athletic injury and illness. 6. Recognition of the effects of improper nutritional needs of the competing student athlete (i.e.,

fluid replacement, diabetic shock). 7. Understand the role of prescription and non-prescription medication in the

immediate/emergency care of athletic injury and illness. 8. Understands the effects of stress loads on the human body (shear, tensile, compressive, etc.). 9. Understands and performs proper Evaluation/Assessment techniques for athletic injury. 10. Understands and complies with all indications and contraindications for known therapeutic

modalities (i.e., ice, moist heat, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, joint mobilization, etc.)

STANDARD VII - Rehabilitation and reconditioning of athletic injuries: Design and Implementation of program.

1. Demonstrates on going evaluation of a student athlete’s progress through various stages of rehabilitation.

2. Knowledge of normal anatomical structures and functions. 3. Knowledge of the various stages of injury response. 4. Knowledge of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and psychological demands placed on the

injured athlete. 5. Knowledge of the role of prescription and non-prescription medications in the rehabilitation

process. 6. Knowledge of the various physiological responses to energies imposed on the body. 7. Has the ability to plan, implement, document and communicate appropriate rehabilitation

strategies to the necessary parties.

STANDARD VIII - Administration:

1. Proper Documentation of injury status and rehabilitation. 2. Proper communication with, and referral to, the appropriate health care provider.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook3. Proper maintenance and documentation of records for the administration of prescription and

non-prescription medications. 4. Proper communication with coaches, team doctors, and parents/guardians. 5. Make sure all current physical forms on file in the Athletic Department (student athletes may

not practice or play without a physical form).6. Make sure all student trainers are academically and otherwise eligible to compete by checking

the eligibility list each week.7. Make sure current/updates student rosters, purchase requisitions, invoices and other necessary

paperwork is turned in to the Athletic Department in a timely manner.8. Maintain equipment, uniforms, etc. properly. 9. Maintain, secure and report needed repairs of athletic facilities.

STANDARD IX - Adaptability: Efficiency under stress. Receptiveness to change/new ideas. Poise and/or courtesy in tough situations.

1. Receptiveness to change 2. Demonstrates poise in stressful situations 3. Maintains efficiency under stress 4. Accepts procedural changes in a positive manner

STANDARD X - Professional development and responsibility:

1. Remains up to date with current evaluation skills, techniques and knowledge. 2. Remains up to date with current human anatomy, physiology, and exercises physiology

research and trends. 3. Remains up to date with current biomechanical research and trends. 4. Remains up to date with current nutritional, and pharmacological research and trends. 5. Remains up to date with current physics as it relates to athletic training. 6. Continues to develop interpersonal and communication skills. 7. Remains up to date with current standards of practice. 8. Maintain good parent/guardian, community and public relations.


EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board’s policy on Evaluation of Certified and Support Personnel, and by the Action plan designed by the Athletic Trainer.

BASEBALL/SOFTBALL GROUNDS PERSON

QUALIFICATIONS: Reputable background working with youth.Previous coaching or playing experience in the assigned positionis preferred. Knowledge of methods, practices, and equipment used in caring for and maintaining grounds.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookMust have a positive background check.


SUPERVISES: N/A

JOB GOALS: To develop, improve, and maintain athletic grounds


Maintains general appearance of baseball/softball complex.

Knowledge of methods, practices and equipment used in caring for and maintaining fields and grounds.

Performs walk through inspection of site to make sure no safety concerns present before events.

Obtains and supplies weed killer and fertilizer on lawns as needed and assigned.

Keeps storage areas clean and in safe workable condition.

Secures fields after each scheduled use as assigned.

Ensures that all equipment assigned is safe and well maintained. Repairs, adjusts, or replaces equipment as necessary.

Conforms to and follows all safety practices set forth by the district.

Clean and store all tools, supplies and equipment after each use and in their proper place.

Assist the maintenance department in performance of the responsibilities required to complete work being performed on site.

Marks and prepares fields as necessary for scheduled events.

Performs other duties as assigned.



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GOALS &OBJECTIVES

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ATHLETIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

Provide a total athletic program for students in grades 7 through 12.

Offer athletic activities to all grade levels, as budget and staff limitations allow. Continue to be in the compliance with Title IX regulations relative to equal opportunity for

participation, budgets and staffing. Offer activities that are concurrent with the status quo of the district.

Provide and athletic program that is totally integrated into the education philosophy of Muskogee Public Schools.

Maintain a working relationship with students, parents/guardians, patrons, faculty, administration and the Muskogee Board of Education in the planning and development of programs.

Continue and in-service program for staff so that the needs of the student athletes and the school district are met.

Provide programs that benefit the student academically as well as athletically.

Provide equipment that is of first quality for participants in the athletic program.

Plan purchasing for each activity so that the student athletes will have every opportunity to excel while maintaining a balanced budget.

Continuous maintenance and supervision of existing equipment by staff members and student athletes.

Provide opportunities for student athletes to exhibit skills and increase participation.

Schedule events relative to participation of the student body and district patrons. Maintain a full range of opportunities so younger student athletes can achieve specified skill

levels. Continue to encourage student participation in the athletics as well as providing opportunities

to non-athletic groups to perform at athletic events (band, cheerleaders, pom/dance teams and vocal groups).

Develop scheduling concepts that will place our student athletes at the highest level of competition so as to increase individual expertise.

Maintain a high standard of expectations.

Student athletes can gain an understanding of the growth process in interpersonal relationships with others.

Create an atmosphere of creativity while maintaining the philosophy of teamwork and group effectiveness.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook Provide student athletes with the opportunity to experience self-discipline, sacrifice and

dedication as means of achieving a goal.

CODE OF ETHICS

AS A PROFESSIONAL EDUCATOR AND COACH, I WILL:

Exemplify the highest moral character, behavior and leadership.

Respect the integrity and personality of the individual student athletes.

Abide by the rules of the game in letter and in spirit.

Respect the integrity and judgment of sports officials.

Demonstrate a mastery of and continuing interest in coaching principles and techniques through professional improvement.

Encourage a respect for all athletics and their values.

Display modesty in victory and graciousness in defeat.

Promote ethical relationships among coaches.

Fulfill responsibilities to provide health services and an environment free of safety hazards.

Encourage the highest standards of conduct and scholastic achievement among all student athletes.

Seek to instill good health habits, including the establishment of sound training rules.

Strive to develop in each student athletes the qualities of leadership, initiative and good judgment.

Communicate with people (administration, athletic department, faculty, fellow coaches, opposing coaches, student athletes, parents/guardians and the media).

Set a good example for the student athletes and try to resolve problems before they become serious.

EXPECTATIONS OF A MUSKOGEE COACH

These are the expectations of coaches. You are always in a position to model the proper behavior and actions that most members of society respect and admire. As a role model, you are expected to:

Be an outstanding teacher in the classroom and the sport you are coaching.3


Have great knowledge of the sport.

Provide a safe environment.

Be prepared and organized.

Communicate effectively.

Develop a student athlete’s skills and talents.

Teach morals, ethics, sportsmanship and a team concept.

Discipline student athletes fairly and consistently.

Influence student athletes to attend college.

Empathize with a student athlete’s problems.

Reflect a positive, enthusiastic attitude.

Establish a good rapport with the student athletes and other coaches.

Be patient and understanding.

Have a good sense of humor.

Develop school and team spirit.

Remain committed and dedicated to the team.

Strive to be successful and competitive.

Oklahoma Coaches Association (OCA)

Membership in the OCA includes registration to the annual summer coaches’ clinic and allows the coach and a guest admission into any non-playoff high school sporting event in Oklahoma throughout the entire school year. Coaches who attend one out of the three OCA Region meetings and remain on the MPS athletic staff the next year will have their membership/clinic registration paid for by the athletic department. Membership in the OCA is required for any coach wishing to nominate someone for OCA All-State selections or scholarship opportunities.

HELPFUL HINTS THAT MIGHT HELP AVOID LITIGATION

Coaches can help protect themselves, reduce the potential for a law suit, and avoid a claim of negligence if they:

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook Show the accident was unavoidable. Show the student athlete contributed to her/his accident. Prove the accident was an act of God

Befriend student athletes and parents/guardians and establish strong channels of communication.

Distribute in writing sound policies and procedures, especially with regards to emergency medical situations.

Attend (along with assistant coaches) a sports medicine clinic one a year. Allow student athletes to practice and compete only when all necessary forms have been

completed, signed by parent/guardian, turned in and on file. Supervise student athletes at all times. Instruct all student athletes effectively and thoroughly in the proper techniques that are

recognized as appropriate by experts in the field. Provide the proper equipment and regularly document safety and maintenance checks of

equipment according to manufacturers’ specifications. Replace all damaged or worn uniforms. Teach student athletes and parents/guardians about the protective limitations of all equipment. Have a trainer and/or physician monitor practices and competitions. Plan conditioning programs that prepare student athletes effectively for competitions and

evaluate all student athletes’ strengths and weaknesses prior to competition. Have easy access to emergency medical personnel and first aid equipment. Have a medical

emergency procedure to follow. Give immediate attention to any injury and use extreme caution before permitting an injured

athlete to practice/compete again. Prohibit student athletes from competing who are not physically or mentally prepared for the

intense exertions required in games. Maintain precise and complete written records, including notices of equipment defects, health

and injury records (even minor ones) and memorandums to and from administrators. Safety first! Provide a safe environment at all times with plenty of planned rest and water

breaks for all practices and competitions. During outdoor sports beware of weather conditions, especially with lightning, and take appropriate cover when necessary.

Beware of, understand and follow the laws, rules and regulations of Title IX.

SUPERVISION

All school athletic activities must be supervised by a coach employed by Muskogee Public Schools:

A coach or school personnel must be present to supervise at all practices and competitions. Supervise student athletes at all times, in the locker room, hallways, fields, court, before and after practice, on the bus, etc. (You can never supervise too much.)

Individuals are not to be given permission to use school facilities without proper supervision. Student athletes should not be in or around the school building at anytime unless they are supervised.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook A coach is responsible for the conduct of student athletes in the locker room. Supervision of

the locker room should be provided by a coach or assistant coach at all times.

When your practice has concluded, a coach must stay until the last student athlete has left, then make sure the building is secure, be sure to lock all doors and turn out lights.

All student athletes must travel to and from athletic contests with the coaching staff. School buses will be used for most trips. Players can leave the competition site with their parents/guardians but they cannot leave with another student athlete’s parents/guardians unless prior written permission is on file with the coach.

If there is a supervision problem, please notify the Athletic Director immediately.

PERCEPTION IS REALITY

How coaches interact with student athletes and parents/guardians is critical to the development of the student athletes and the success of the program. How the parent perceives our care, concern, and interest in their child is just as important as the program itself. But it does not mean that they are going to be allowed to run the program and teams. It does mean that our professional and dedicated coaches are going to take an interest in every student athlete who is involved in the program and becoming a help rather than a hindrance.

COMMUNICATION

The success of any group or team hinges on the individuals’ commitment to communicate openly and regularly with each other. The goal of the Athletic Director and coaches is to promote this kind of standard.

COMMUNICATION GUIDELINES

Coaches will attend department meetings called by the Athletic Director.

Coaches must provide in writing their policies that relate to their coaching philosophy and team management. It is expected the philosophy and rules be given to the student athletes and parents/guardians.

Coaches must avoid contributing to gossip about student athletes or other coaches.

Coaches concerns should be discussed with the Athletic Director.

Coaches must establish an open line of communication with student athletes, parents/guardians, other coaches, Athletic Director and administrators about any matters that involve the athletic program. Such discussions should always be characterized by a professional demeanor by all participants.

PRE-SEASON PARENT/GUARDIAN MEETINGS6


Coaches should have a pre-season parent meeting to discuss the coach’s philosophy, team policies and expectations (players and parents), eligibility, schedules (practice and games), lettering policy, and procedure for contacting coaches, and to distribute printed handouts for parents/guardians to take

home. Coaches should avoid open discussion on playing time, techniques, strategies, practice organization, and play selection. A parent/guardian may rightfully discuss their child’s attitude, work ethic, behavior, eligibility, efforts to improve, and how a coach treats their child, physically and verbally.

Muskogee Public Schools Procedure for contacting coaches:

Player talks to the position coach. Player talks to the head coach. Parent may talk to the head coach. Parent may contact the Athletic Director.

A parent/guardian who contacts a school administrator who has not followed this procedure will be referred to the policy and then sent back to the coach.

INTERACTION WITH CONCERNED PARENTS/GUARDIANS

Prior to a meeting with a parent/guardian ask them to inform you of what issues they would like to discuss. Inform them at that time the areas that will and will not be discussed.

During the parent/guardian meeting exclude the matters of playing time and strategies and confine the conversation to the parent/guardian’s child, excluding the other student athletes, parents/guardians, or coaches.

Any time a parent/guardian meeting is scheduled inform the parent/guardian that “just because you are here does not mean that their child will get any more or any less playing time.

Student athletes may contact a coach at school via appropriate means such as written mail, phone calls, voice-mails, e-mails, text messages, or through the Athletic Department.

Calls made immediately after school as coaches prepare for practice may get no response until the next day. Request the parent/guardian to call during the day.

When a coach goes home, that is her/his family/personal time and should be respected as such. It is also not appropriate to talk to a coach immediately before or after a practice or game (emotions sometimes tend to run high after such an event).

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook Letters or e-mails must have a return address with a name on the envelope or a subject line.

Without such identification, the contents will be disposed of or deleted. The Muskogee Athletic Department will not deal with nor give credence to anonymous letters.

DOCUMENTATION

Keep records of everything that happens during the year:

Keep a file of practice plans, in-season and off-season.

Keep attendance of every team meeting, practices, work-out, and game.

Keep phone/e-mail log of parent/guardian contacts, documents of any situation that may be of consequence.

A coach never knows when he may need proof of some situation and who was present at the time.

PARENTS/GUARDIAN BOOSTER CLUBS

Most parents/guardians want to help make their child’s experience in school athletics the most memorable part of life. Booster clubs give the parents/guardians that kind of opportunity. Their purpose is to provide support for the team’s activities, disperse communication and information from coaches to the parents/guardians, and send out newsletters and/or e-mails giving parents/guardians a preview of the activities, schedules, and expectations. The booster clubs are also responsible for team dinners, fund raising, and the post-season banquets.

STAY PROFESSIONAL

Dealing with parents/guardians may sometimes be as challenging as coaching the team. Even in the most successful seasons some parent/guardian – coach situation will arise. “It’s out there, around the corner – you don’t know what or where – you just know it is coming.”

The coach is in charge and must be professional and remain cool, calm, and in control, even in the most heated of parental/guardian situations.

If the coach has done her/his professional duty to educate parents/guardians on their responsibilities and expectations, the path of the season will proceed much more smoothly.

“Athletics not only build character, they reveal it.”

PUBLIC RELATIONS

The effect of public relations on the interscholastic athletic program is one which cannot be accurately measured in terms of value. However, it plays an integral role in influencing the opinion making

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbookpublic. Always use the media to promote the city, the school, and your team. Mention as many student athletes as possible, but don’t use it as a promotional tool for individual players. STAY POSITIVE!! THERE IS NOTHING TO BE GAINED BY POINTING FINGERS OR GIVING BLAME IN THE MEDIA.

ATHLETIC MEDIA/INTERNAL COMMUINICATIONS

Select an assistant coach, student manager or yourself to turn in your scores immediately after each game to the athletic director, Rank One, media and OSSAA rankings.

OSSAA- PUBLIC CRITICISM OF CONTEST OFFICIALS & SCHOOL REPRESENTATIVESAny school representative who publicly criticizes a contest official, and any contest official who publicly criticizes a school representative in connection with a contest, meet, or tournament is subject to sanctions. The member school represented by an individual who publicly criticizes a contest official may also be subject to sanctions if the school fails to take appropriate action in response to the school representative’s public criticism of the contest official. The sanctions could include warning or suspension. Public criticism includes, but is not limited to, comments made to the media or during a broadcasted event, and comments made in a public forum.

In an effort to create an efficient routine in which to communicate with the media, public and our co-workers, MPS is implementing this written policy for all athletic department employees and coaches to follow.

Media RelationsBefore, during and after sporting events, coaches are able to handle interviews themselves with the media. Calling in scores to the local newspaper is also acceptable. However, if at any time a controversial issue arises during these interviews, employees should direct whoever is inquiring to speak to either the athletic director or the public relations coordinator.Any other media interview requests must be directed through the athletic director and/or the public relations coordinator. (District policy is for media interviews to be approved through public relations.) This does not apply to any personal business you have with the media, such as outside (non-school related) athletic events you are organizing or participating in.If you are in doubt or are uncomfortable speaking to a media representative, you are welcome at any time to choose to direct a media representative to contact the public relations coordinator.

Internal CommunicationsWe are all Muskogee Roughers, and it is important we keep our co-workers informed of the celebrations, events and activities going on in the athletic department.

For efficiency purposes, all emails to be sent to ‘all employees’ or any specific campus email group, such as ‘MHS-all,’ must be sent to the athletic director and/or public relations coordinator for approval.*

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookThe PR coordinator will send all such emails out to whichever group you are requesting. There will not be changes made other than checking for spelling errors etc., and the top of each email will prominently display which coach the email is from, and which email address employees should reply to.This is to keep us all informed at all times, and by adhering to this policy, our public relations and athletic department office will then be able to use the information easily for our website, Twitter, Facebook and to send to media who might be interested in a submitted photo or in doing a story.

(You may also be specific about where you want the information to be posted – Facebook, the website, sent to certain media outlets, etc.)

*Your personal emails such as emails related to your teaching or non-athletic positions are not included in this. This policy refers only to game result announcements, award announcements, fundraiser announcements and the like.

REPORTING TO THE ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

Text your game results 7th -12th to the athletic director at the completion of the event score will be posted on the athletic Twitter account and website.

Nominate and notify the athletic department of any special honors your student athletes receive. Send a copy of your nomination form to the athletic director.

MEDIA POLICY

The media at Muskogee Public Schools will be used to promote the community, the school district, the athletic programs, and the student athletes. Negative media coverage will not be used. If any coach or

media outlet chooses to do so, their accessibility to our programs will be limited. All interviews must be scheduled through the Head Coach

o The Head Coach is not required to meet with any media personnel that have not scheduled in advance.

o No Assistant Coaches or student athletes will be interviewed without permission from the Head Coach.

It is requested that interviews be recorded so as to avoid misquotes. Coaches have the right to refuse to answer any question they deem inappropriate. Media personnel should ask questions one time. It will be the media’s decision whether they

want to use the answer.o Please do not ask the same question repeatedly hoping for a different answer.

Coaches will be professional when dealing with the media and will try to accommodate them as much as possible.

These policies are in place to help ensure a positive working relationship between the media and Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department.

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OSSAAGUIDELINES

Update

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SCHOLASTIC ELIGIBILITY

Activity participants in grades 7 through 12 must have maintained, up to the end of the preceding week in which the activity occurs, a passing grade in all subjects.

If students fail to meet the minimum scholastic standard at the end of the week, they will be placed on probation for the next one-week period. During probation, students may continue to participate in activities. If students are failing to meet the minimum scholastic standard at the end of the probationary one-week period, they will be ineligible to participate during the next one-week period. The ineligibility period will begin on Monday and end on Sunday.

Students who have lost eligibility under this provision must achieve minimum scholastic standards in order to regain eligibility. Students regain eligibility the following Monday.

A student whose grade at the end of the week is failing and grades were put in over the weekend that raised that students grade must complete a change of grade form. This form must be filled out on the first day of that week and turned in to the athletic office that day in order for the student to regain eligibility.

Semester Gradesa. A student must have received a passing grade in any five subjects to be counted for

graduation that he/she was enrolled in during the last semester he/she attended fifteen or more days. (This requirement would also be five school subjects for the 7th and 8th grade students.) For block schedules that offer 8 or more credits during an 18-week grading period, a student must earn 6 credits counted toward graduation during that 18-week grading period. (1 credit = 1/2 Carnegie Unit) \

b. If a student does not meet the minimum scholastic standard he/she will not be eligible to participate during the first six weeks of the next 18-week grading period they attend.

c. A student who does not meet the above minimum scholastic standard may regain his/her eligibility by achieving passing grades in all subjects he/she is enrolled in at the end of a six-week period. Pupils enrolled for the first time must comply with the same requirements of scholastic eligibility.

d. Pupils enrolled for the first time must comply with the same requirements of scholastic eligibility. The passing grades required for the preceding 18-week grading period should be obtained from the records in the school last attended.

e. A student who drops a class after the first three weeks of the semester shall be ineligible for at least a three-week period. To regain eligibility after three-weeks, the student must be enrolled in the minimum number of classes required for eligibility, and be passing all subjects in which the student is enrolled.

An exception is allowed for a student who enrolled in an AP or honors-level course and wishes to drop that course. A student dropping an AP or honors-level course after the first three weeks of the semester may maintain continued eligibility provided that (i) the

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbookstudent had a passing grade in the AP or honors-level course at the time of withdrawal; and (ii) the student enrolls in a non-AP or honors-level course in the same subject.

Student Eligibility During a Semestera. Scholastic eligibility for students will be checked after three weeks (during the fourth

week) of a semester and each succeeding week thereafter. Schools may choose to run eligibility checks on any day of the week. The period of probation and ineligibility will always begin the Monday following the day eligibility is checked. Methods should be devised to check weekly grades of Career-Tech students and all concurrently enrolled students. For block scheduling, scholastic eligibility will be checked after two weeks (during third week) of the first and third blocks and each succeeding week thereafter and at the end of the first week of the second and fourth blocks and each succeeding week thereafter. Schools may choose to run eligibility checks on any day of the week. The period of probation and ineligibility will always begin the Monday following the day eligibility is checked.

b. A student must be passing in all subjects he/she is enrolled in during a semester. If a student is not passing all subjects enrolled in on the day of the grade check, he/she will be placed on probation for the next one-week period. If a student is still failing one or more classes during the next week on the grade check day, he/she will be ineligible to participate during the next one-week period. The ineligibility periods will begin on Monday and end on Sunday.

c. A student who has lost eligibility under this provision must be passing all subjects in order to regain eligibility. A student regains eligibility under Rule 3 with the first class of the new one-week period (Monday through Sunday).

d. "Passing grade" means work of such character that credit would be entered on the records were the semester to close at that time.

Special Provisionsa. A senior student maintains eligibility by passing the classes required for

graduation. The number of classes which a student is enrolled can be no less than four. (For block and trimester exceptions contact the OSSAA office.) A junior or senior student who is concurrently enrolled in high school and college may use the college courses to meet the minimum number of subjects needed to maintain eligibility. These may be a combination of high school and college subjects equivalent to four high school units which are accepted by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

b. An ineligible student who changes schools during a semester will not be eligible at the new school for a minimum period of three weeks. A student may regain his/her eligibility by achieving the scholastic standard in Rule 3, Section 2-b the end of a three-week period. (Any part of a week is considered a full week.)

c. Incomplete grades will be considered to be the same as failing grades in determining scholastic eligibility. School administrators are authorized to make an exception to this provision if the incomplete grade was caused by an unavoidable hardship. (Examples of such hardships would be illness, injured death in family and natural disaster.) A maximum of two weeks is allowed for make-up work.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbookd. One summer school credit (1/2 unit or one subject) earned in an Oklahoma State

Department of Education accredited program may be used to meet the requirements of Rule 3, Section 1-a, for the end of spring semester.

Special Education StudentsSpecial education students, who are enrolled in special education classes, have an Individual Educational Plan and have been certified by the principal as doing a quality of work may, with the approval of the Board of Directors, be accepted as eligible under this rule.

10 DAY ACTIVITY

The maximum number of absences for activities, whether sponsored by the school or outside agency/organization, which removes any student from the classroom shall be ten for any one class period of each school year. Excluded from this number are state and national levels of school-sponsored contests (playoffs).

Any student that is in jeopardy of violating this attendance policy shall be recommended to an activities review committee who will be responsible for reviewing and recommending any deviation of the activities policy to the local board of education. If the committee finds in favor of a deviation from the ten days absence rule it shall not exceed five days.

ATTENDANCE

A student who has not attended classes ninety percent of the time for the semester in a member school becomes ineligible. Exceptions may be made by the principal due to illness, injury, death in the immediate family, valid reasons for late enrollment, or late with the beginning of attendance

Question: At what point in the school year does the attendance rule begin?Answer: Attendance for the semester begins with the first day of the semester, and continues throughout the entire semester. A student must be in compliance with the 90% attendance rule for each class in which a student is enrolled.

COACHES RESPONSIBILITY

The head coach is responsible for supplying a list of her/his athletes to his staffs 7th-12th at respective schools of the students for eligibility and attendance checks.

The head coach is to check the ineligible list when it is released. Check the list for your team members. If a student is on probation, she/he may participate the next week. If the student is ineligible, she/he must sit out for one week beginning on the following Monday and ending on Sunday.

RECRUITING REGULATIONS

There must be no recruiting of athletes to Muskogee Public Schools. Handling contact by or with prospective student-athletes: If contact is initiated with a member school's employee or representative

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbookby a prospective student-athlete, or by a family member, friend, or associate of a student-athlete, about that student-athlete enrolling in or transferring to that member school, the school employee or representative contacted shall direct that person to the school superintendent or to the principal or administrative head of the school for any additional information. The school employee or

representative shall not discuss further the subject of enrolling at or transferring to the school, or otherwise use any language or engage in any act that could be construed as encouraging the student-athlete to enroll at or transfer to the school. Any contact with a student-athlete from another school about that student-athlete enrolling or transferring to a member school for athletic purposes shall be reported as soon as possible to the OSSAA by that member school.

Each coach or volunteer providing instruction, assistance, or supervision in an athletic activity for a member school must sign a written certification that the coach or volunteer is familiar with this Rule 9.

All officers, administrators, supervisors, and sponsors of any club or organization supporting any athletic activity at a member school must sign a written certification that they are familiar with this Rule, and that the members of the club or organization have been informed about this Rule 9.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SANCTIONING AN EVENT

All OSSAA meets and tournaments where three or more schools participate must be approved by the OSSAA.

When hosting an event with only Oklahoma teams participating, you must complete a sanctioning form that is to be sent to the OSSAA. A copy of this form will be sent to athletic director.

SANCTIONING FOR INTERSTATE ATHLETIC EVENTS

Interstate competition occurs when either teams or individuals who represent their schools travel across state lines to participate in competitive sports events.

When participating in an athletic event out of state or if you are hosting an athletic event with teams from out of state participating, there are guidelines that must be followed, sanctioning forms that must be completed and turned in within 90 days or more to the event.

Out of state trips requirements. The timeline is listed below along with data collection submission. The entire policy is in the attachment.

At a minimum, out-of-state and/or overnight trips (to adjacent states) shall be submitted thirty (30) days in advance of the trip. Out-of-state trips (to non-adjacent states) requiring Board of Education approval must be submitted a minimum of sixty (60) days in advance of the trip. Exceptions to this timeline will be considered on a case-by-case basis. For the purpose of this policy, “adjacent states” refers to those states that are contiguous to – or immediately border – the state of Oklahoma.

OUT-OF-STATE AND RECRUITING TRIPS

Out of state trips requirements. The timeline is listed below along with data collection submission. The entire policy is in the attachment.

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At a minimum, out-of-state and/or overnight trips (to adjacent states) shall be submitted thirty (30) days in advance of the trip. Out-of-state trips (to non-adjacent states) requiring Board of Education approval must be submitted a minimum of sixty (60) days in advance of the trip. Exceptions to this

timeline will be considered on a case-by-case basis. For the purpose of this policy, “adjacent states” refers to those states that are contiguous to – or immediately border – the state of Oklahoma.

Must be turned in two weeks before trip.

Approved Out-of-State Travel Form List of Students List of Anticipated Sponsors Parent/ Guardian Permission Forms (on file) Signed Medical Authorization s (on file)

Volunteer Forms (necessary for non-employees)

Student Athlete Recruiting Trips Trip must be pre-approved by athletic director School vehicle may be used if district is reimbursed for the fuel. District must be reimbursed for substitute regardless of if substitute is needed It will be documented as activity day for coach

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FINANCIALPROCEDURES

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ATHLETIC PURCHASING PROCEDURES

YOU MUST HAVE A PURCHASE ORDER NUMBER TO ORDER ANYTHING. You need to know and understand that if you purchase anything without a purchase order number you will be responsible for the payment of that purchase. To obtain a purchase order number use the following procedure:

Purchasing Items Within Your Budget: Obtain two to three quotes. Send purchase requisition form to athletic department. When you receive a copy of the approved purchase order send to vendor to process order. When merchandise is received check order and make sure all is in good condition. Report what has been received, any missing items, or damaged goods to athletic department. Then add items to that sports inventory.

Purchasing Items Outside Your Budget: Request approval from Athletic Director. The Athletic Director will determine which account, if any, will be used. Follow procedures for purchase within your budget.

Tournament Entry Fees:

Before your season begins, turn in a list of all tournaments you will be attending to the athletic department. The head coach is responsible for all teams in her/his sport.

Fill out and sign a purchase requisition form which should include the host school name, date of tournament, amount of entry fee, the number of teams Muskogee will be sending to participate and what level (varsity, junior varsity, girls, boys, etc.) and give to athletic department along with entry fee form for each tournament.

If Muskogee is hosting a tournament, turn in a list showing the date, location, time, all teams participating and the amount of the entry fee to the athletic secretary. The athletic department will invoice teams that have not paid. If the booster club is sponsoring a tournament for a fund raiser then that booster club will be responsible for invoicing and collecting payment from participating schools.

Travel Expenses:

At least three weeks prior to travel, turn in hotel reservation information. This information should include the hotel name, phone number, address, date(s) of overnight stay and number of rooms needed. The hotel will request a room assignment list a week in advance of your stay. You will receive a purchase order to take with you and give to hotel personnel so they can direct bill Muskogee Public Schools. Obtain an itemized invoice from the hotel and turn in to the athletic department. Follow the same procedure for meals if they will be paid out of your budget.

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FUND RAISING FOR BOOSTER CLUBS

All Booster Clubs must apply for sanctioning each year. According to state law, Booster Club organizations must apply for and receive sanctioning from the school board.

Booster Club fund raisers involving student athletes must be approved by the Athletic Director.

All money received from a sanctioned Booster club fund raiser should be deposited with your Booster club. Checks should NOT be made out in the coach’s name.

Booster clubs must get approval from the Athletic Director before building, improving and/or changing facilities.

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ATHLETICPROCEDURES

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CHAIN OF COMMUNICATION

The Importance of Communication is the foundation for sharing information internally in the athletic department, with district administration/directors and outside organizations to ensure that everything is understood and the correct action can be taken in a timely manner. Good communication is essential for our athletic department to prosper. The Athletic Director should be made aware and allowed to communicate

PROFESSIONAL DAYS AND SECONDARY PT CONFERNECES

There will be no competition and/or practices scheduled during professional development or secondary parent-teacher conferences.

AHTLETIC UNIFORMS

Understanding that change in style is a constant with athletic uniforms, and depending upon vendor availability, below are guidelines for the design and ordering of athletic uniforms.

ColorsAthletic uniforms will be predominantly green or white with black used as an accent color if available. An acceptable alternative uniform may have a black or gray jersey or pants but solid black or gray uniforms will not be acceptable. Logos and word marksThe primary "ROUGHERS" logo must appear on all athletic uniforms. For some sports it may appear as a full chest image. For sports such as baseball, basketball, or tennis it will appear on the sleeve, short, or left chest. Two additional word marks are available for sports that require the name of the team to appear above a team member's number. The "Roughers" and "Muskogee" word marks are the only options for this purpose. The interlocking "MHS" logo may also appear on uniforms or hats if space permits, but ideally should not be the most dominant logo on a uniform. Examples of appropriate usage include baseball and softball hats, field hockey skirts, or basketball collars. See the usage guidelines for correct usage of these logos and word marks.

ApprovalAll athletic uniforms must be approved by the Athletic Director. Obtain a uniform proof and proposed fabric color swatches from the selected vendor for approval before production. After approval, a confirmation will be given and uniforms may then be ordered.

TRYOUT POLICY

Tryout Policy Philosophy:

23

Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookThe Muskogee Athletic Department is sensitive to the needs of the student athletes during the tryout period. It is the school’s desire to see that as many student athletes as possible are involved in the program during the athletic season.

Unfortunately, due to facility space, time constraints, numbers for equipment and additional factors, limitations are placed on sizes of teams for each individual sport.

The athletic department recognizes those concerns and is striving to maximize the options available for student athletes in the athletic arena as participants or supporters to the program.

Tryout Policy Procedures:

Schedule tryouts on master schedule in athletic office.

The athletic office must have a copy of your tryout procedures before your tryouts begin. Other information that is needed is the date, time the tryouts begin and end, location, what the athlete is to wear and what equipment they need to bring.

Notify student athletes of tryouts at least two weeks in advance.

TRANSPORTATION GUIDELINES

When driving school transportation, always remember safety first is most important. Follow all laws and drive carefully.

To drive a bus you must attend and complete the Bus Driving School, have a CDL driver’s license, OKDE pink card and get a yearly physical on the correct form.

The transportation department will hold a bus driving class when there are at least two people participating in the class.

Transportation requests must be approved on Trip Tracker by the Athletic Director. Please complete your requests for the entire season before your season begins.

If you have a cancellation, change of time or want to give the time for a TBA, please contact the transportation department and the athletic department to give them this information.

When you get your bus/van, it should be clean and equipped with a trash can and a broom.

After using the bus/van, it is your responsibility to clean it and empty the trash.

Do not forget to turn in your gate and bus/van key after each trip in the slot on the south side of the bus barn.

Always conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, plus complete and sign all necessary forms.

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures Handbook Be sure to sign and complete all paperwork.

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STUDENT ATHLETES CHANGING SPORTS IN MID-SEASON

From the first time a student athlete’s name appears on the official eligibility list for an interscholastic sport, she/he may not join another team or compete in another sport until after the end of the first sport season unless the following conditions are met:

The student athlete presents both coaches involved a doctor’s certificate recommending she/he drop the first sport for reasons of health and permits participation in the second sport.

Both coaches involved and the Athletic Director agree that a mid-season change of the sport would be beneficial to the student athlete without being unfair to the individuals of either team.

The parent/guardian is notified of any changes in the student athlete’s schedule. The coach of the sport the student athlete is leaving must contact the parents/guardians, and it is suggested that the coach of the new sport should contact the parents/guardians as well.

STUDENT ATHLETES CHANGING SPORTS AT THE END OF THE SEASON

Student athletes may join their next school sponsored sport as soon as they have completed their responsibilities to their current sport. All equipment and uniforms must be turned into the coach of the sport just completed.

STUDENT ATHLETES QUITTING A SPORT BEFORE ITS CONCLUSION

When a student athlete quits or is removed from the team before the completion of the season, there are two options for the remainder of the semester. The student athlete should switch her/his class schedule if it is early enough in the semester. If it is too late to change class schedules, the coach is responsible for the student athlete until the end of seventh hour at which time the student athlete may be released.

Be sure to notify parent/guardian of this situation as soon as possible.

COACHES CHANGING TO ANOTHER SPORT

A suggested guideline for a coach to switch from one sport to another is to report to the new sport on the third day after the completion of their current sport.

SEVENTH HOUR SPORTS AND ATTENDANCE

NEVER DISMISS YOUR CLASS EARLY! It is very important and your responsibility to supervise your student athletes the entire seventh hour and continue to monitor and report attendance each day. Even if you have to report an absence a day late, it is still important that you do so and keep accurate records of attendance.

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GUIDELINES FOR OVERNIGHT TRIPS

An overnight activity should provide one adult for every ten student athletes. A school activity must have at least one school employee as a chaperone.

When hotel rooms are utilized for overnight trips, all rooms should be on the same floor as and contiguous to the coaches rooms. When it is not possible, a coach’s room shall be on the same floor as the athlete’s room.

Student athletes of the same gender shall be assigned to rooms together. All male rooms shall be contiguous to each other. All female rooms shall be contiguous to each other.

Student athletes shall not sleep in rooms other than those assigned to them.

Have the hotel/motel turn off long distance phone service in student athlete rooms.

Curfew for student athletes will be set by the head coach or Athletic Director. A good guideline to follow would be 10:30 p.m. or upon arrival to the hotel if after 10:30 p.m., at that time the athletes will be restricted to their rooms (the only exception would be to report an emergency to a coach), until 7:00 a.m. the next morning or earlier if scheduled by the coach for a group breakfast or earlier departure.

Coaches shall be responsible for periodic room checks. The coach shall physically check each room and take roll at the time of each room check. Coaches may alternate the responsibility, but room checks should be done periodically prior to curfew, at curfew and at least twice prior to 6:00 a.m. the next morning.

The coach(s) shall be in attendance with the student athletes during the entire school trip. No excursions or errands, personal or professional, shall be allowed unless they are related to the school trip and only under the following conditions: If administrative work must be completed at a different location, only one coach shall attend to the work. All other coach(s) and chaperones shall stay with the student athletes.

School rules shall be enforced on all school trips. Minor infractions of school or group rules shall be handled by the coach(s). Major infractions of school rules, such as fighting, weapons, drugs, alcohol, theft or violations of the law shall be reported to the Athletic Director and Principal or designee as soon as possible. All infractions of school or group rules shall be reported to the Athletic Director and Principal in writing upon return from the activity.

Parents/guardians release and emergency forms shall be in the possession of the coach(s) during all trips.

A master roll of all student athletes, coaches and chaperones shall be kept and maintained by the head coach for the entire trip.

Student athletes who are academically and/or attendance ineligible at the time of the trip shall not be allowed to go.

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It is the responsibility of the head coach to contact and provide the Athletic Director with a written itinerary, one week prior to each overnight trip.

DISCRIMINATION – HARASSMENT

Discrimination and harassment based on race, age, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability or veteran status are prohibited. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, derogatory remarks and acts, including slurs, epithets and other verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct of a hostile, intimidating, abusive, degrading, threatening or violent nature. This prohibition shall include harassment perpetrated by or against an athlete, student, employee, patron, vendor or any other person on district property or at district-sponsored functions.

HARASSMENT – HAZING – BULLYING

Harassment, hazing and bullying of student athletes by employees or other student athletes will not be tolerated.

Hazing and bullying is as much a problem as it has ever been. Hazing or bullying has been a secret for so long that it’s considered to have been a part of the tradition of playing athletics.

Some preventive tips:

Educate student athletes and coaches. Know all to do before you need to do it. Have an anti-hazing/bullying policy for your coaches

and student athletes. Take hazing/bullying seriously. Thoroughly investigate all hazing/bullying accusations and

rumors. Do not ignore hazing/bullying incidents, have punishment guidelines for hazing/bullying within

the guidelines of school district policy (see Muskogee High School Student Handbook).

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that violates the law. The Muskogee Board of Education believes that each athlete and employee should be able to attend school and work in an environment which provides for fair and equitable treatment and is free of discriminatory intimidation based on sex and unwelcome sexual advances.

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, requests for sexual favors or verbal, physical or other sexual offensive conduct made by anyone on district property or during any school sponsored event.

Sexual harassment will not be permitted or tolerated. This policy is applicable to all coaches, athletes, students, employees, non-employees and volunteers on district property or serving as school sponsors.

Action to be taken: Student athletes who sexually harass shall be subject to any and all disciplinary action that may be imposed by the district’s policy regarding student athlete behavior.

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Where complaints involve an employee of the athletic department, the Principal, Executive Director of Human Resources and Athletic Director, shall immediately investigate the complaint and shall, at the end of the investigation, recommend disciplinary action against the harasser if the complaint is substantiated.

STAFF AND STUDENT ATHLETE ABSENCES

Any time a coach(s) is out for athletic competitions during the school day the athletic director will approve the absence then turn the absence form in to site principals. These forms need to be completed and turned in to ten days prior to the trip, unless it is a playoff or the 2nd round of a tournament. Forms for the year may be sent starting July 1st in order to secure substitutes.

When teams are going to be out of school the head coaches 7th-12th need to send a roster to the building administrators, athletic director and the attendance secretary’s five days before the planned competition or 1st day of a tournament. The same individuals need to be contacted if there are changes with a roster that day or on the remaining days of a tournament. If a player that has been turned in does not show up to participate it is the head coach’s responsibility to contact the attendance secretary regarding absence.

Coaches must protect the instructional time of our student-athletes and the students our staff instructs. They will remain in class until the need to depart for the trip. Plan and pack gear the day before a competition. That way all they need to do the day of a competition is go from the class to the locker room to the bus/van for departure.

Child Nutrition about will arrange lunches to take on trips. Contact the athletic office five days before your trip in order to get lunches to eat in route instead of leaving early for pre-game meals.

Guidelines for getting student athletes dismissed for an athletic event are:

Excused list will have the following information:

Student athletes names in alphabetical order. Do not mix grades – list all 9th graders together, 10th graders together, etc.

Make your request for student athletes to be taken out of class during the beginning or end of instructional time. Refrain from interrupting in the middle of instructional time.

Student athletes will not be released until a time that allows them to arrive at their contest destination 60 minutes before game time. If more time is needed, get approval from the Athletic Director.

Do a brief itinerary along with the excused list for the athletic department for out-of-town events. This itinerary will be emailed to the Athletic Director one week before the trip.

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CANCELLATION AND RE-SCHEDULING OF EVENTS

Notify the Athletic Director whenever you feel it becomes necessary to cancel a competition.

Notify the Athletic Director when the opposing school cancels a competition.

The athletic department will notify the following:

Athletic Director of opponent. Grounds Department/Custodial Staff Officials Transportation if necessary. Secretaries of announcements Gate Workers/Game Manager Security Spirit Department Media

The same procedures will be followed when a game is rescheduled. Notify the athletic department and we will contact the necessary people.

Inclement weather days may or may not affect an athletic event. Several factors are taken into consideration on inclement weather days:

Weather conditions at opposing school. Conditions at noon on the day of the event. Varsity or Sub Varsity team.

Use good judgment regarding practices. Practices cannot be mandatory.

FACILITIES

Facilities must be a priority for the Athletic Director and coaches. You need to evaluate your facilities regularly, especially preseason, to be certain that student athletes, coaches and spectators have a safe, secure and satisfactory site for practices and competitions.

Gymnasiums, locker rooms, football field, track baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, restrooms at facility, press box, etc. should be checked for anything that needs repair or cleaning. If you have a special need(s) for an event such as cleaning or supplies, turn this list into the athletic office and work orders for cleaning and repairs will be turned in to the maintenance department.

CAMP PROCEDURE

Muskogee Public School coaches who sponsor a sports camp must follow these procedures:

Schedule all camps through the athletic office on the master calendar. This is not a first come/first serve basis. If possible, try to keep your camp on the same week each year. We

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want all coaches to have the chance for maximum participation. Work and communicate with each other to improve each camp’s success.

Tuition/fees for the camp are set by the coach in charge. The coach is also in charge of handling the financial procedures of the camp.

Complete and turn in OSSAA sanctioning form for camps.

Include on camp brochure:

Camp information – Location, date, time, cost, equipment or uniform needed, size of T-shirt and deadline for registration.

Registration form. School waiver form. Coach phone number (home and work). Coach address for mail-ins.

Any brochure or flyer must be approved by Athletic Director before being handed out at Muskogee Public Schools.

Camps are highly recommended but not mandatory.

Coaches may leave brochures in the athletic department for student athletes. Information will be on the web page and information will be given out to anyone who calls.

Provide a safe environment, with planned rest and water breaks. If you camp is outdoors, always be aware of weather conditions, especially lightning. Take shelter when necessary.

Have a plan for injuries or medical emergencies.

***Muskogee Public Schools is not responsible for these camps. Sport camps are the responsibility of the coaches involved.

RANK ONE

The Athletic Department requires all student athletes and their parents/guardians to complete the required athletic participation paperwork online at Rank One. Rank One can be found on the MPS athletic website. All head coaches will build their team’s roster each year on Rank One. If an individual is highlighted green they may participate. If an individual is highlighted red they should not be allowed to participate until cleared by the athletic department.

SPORTS PHYSICALS

The physical will be valid from the date of the physical given until the next required physical. Parents/guardians must sign the parental consent form each year before the student participates in any

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organized athletic practice session including contest participation. Physical must be dated after May 1 and will be scanned in to their Rank One file by athletic trainer.

INJURIES

It is the responsibility of the head coach to see that treatment of injuries is properly supervised. The trainer will assume this responsibility in cases where needed.

In the event that an individual must be taken to the hospital, the individual must be accompanied by a coach or an authorized adult. The parents/guardians should be notified of the injury immediately.

Coaches will follow doctor’s instructions as to further treatment for injured student athletes. The injured athlete must have permission from their doctor to practice and play in games.

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MUSKOGEE ROUGHERATHLETIC

ACHIEVEMENTS

BASEBALL: State Champion – 1974State Runner-Up – 1998

BASKETBALL: Women: State Runner-Up – 1983

Men: State Champion – 1947, 1975 State Runner-Up – 1985

MTHS: State Runner-Up – 1964, 1965, 1966

FOOTBALL: State Champion – 1910, 1914, 1919, 1920, 1923, 1925

1935, 1940, 1948, 1950, 1986State Runner-Up – 1985MTHS: State Champion – 1941, 1947, 1949, 1951 State Runner-Up – 1969

GOLF: Men: State Champion – 1963, 1964, 1965, 1968, 1969, 1998

State Runner-Up – 1970, 1997

SOFTBALL-SP: State Champion – 1983State Runner-Up – 1982, 1984, 1996, 2002, 2005

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Muskogee Public Schools Athletic Department Policies & Procedures HandbookTENNIS: Men: State Champion – 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969

State Runner-Up – 1971

TRACK: Men: State Champion – 1971, 1973

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