What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that can change the way the brain normally works. Concussions can occur from a fall or a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to shift and collide with the skull. The health and wellness of students are important factors that influence learner achievement. The fb88 Department of Education, in conjunction with families, educators, healthcare providers, and coaches, is committed to helping students prevent, manage, and recover from concussions.Ìý

The Concussion Management Resource GuideÌýwas updated to align with recommendations by the . Read the Priority NoticeÌýthat was sent to schools regarding the updated policy and resources.Ìý

Assessment Tools

The following standardized tools are designed for use by healthcare professionals.Ìý

• For individuals over age 13, theÌýSCAT6Ìýmay be used as a baseline assessment or post-injury assessment within 3 days of injury.Ìý
• For children 8-12 years of age, theÌýChild SCAT6Ìýmay be usedÌýpost-injury for up to 7 days.
• For individuals over 13, the Sports Concussion Office Assessment ToolÌý(SCOAT6)Ìýmay be used for ongoing assessment after 3 days post-injury.Ìý

Model Policy

• Model Concussion Management Policy (2025)

Concussion Reporting

• • Report to the 132nd Legislature, January 31, 2025
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Approved Training

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention HEADS UPÌý
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• Brain Injury Association of America Training for Health Professionals
  
• National Federation of State High School Associations
  
  

Sample Forms

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Before participating in a school athletic activity, all students and the student’s legal parent or guardian must be informed of signs and symptoms of concussion and the school’s policy for managing concussion and sign a statement acknowledging that review.

SchoolsÌýmay notify all students and parents of the risk of concussions and the local school policy. Sample language has been provided as a stand-alone document or as inclusion within a student/parent handbook.

• Parent Information and Acknowledgement Sample

Protocols and Monitoring

• A full recovery from a concussion can be assisted by school staff who understand the symptoms and who provide the necessary accommodations and support. A graduated return to normal activity is best practice.
• Graduated Return to School & Return to Activity Protocol
• School Accommodations for Post-Concussion
• SymptomÌýMonitoring Tool: Teacher/AcademicsÌý

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