Bedford County Board adopts safety metrics for student athletics amid concerns

In a passionate discussion during the Special Called School Board Meeting on December 17, 2020, Bedford County officials emphasized the urgent need to allow student athletes to continue their sports practices amid ongoing safety concerns. Board members unanimously agreed on a science-based metric to guide decisions about when it is safe for students to compete, prioritizing the health of not just athletes, but also coaches and support staff.

One board member highlighted the importance of this metric, stating, “We need to let these kids play and come up with another alternative.” This sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, as officials recognized the critical role extracurricular activities play in students' lives. They noted that while competition may not be immediately feasible, practices should continue to foster teamwork and mentorship.

The board's decision aims to provide equal standards for all high schools in the district, ensuring that no school is held to a different set of rules. The member urged the community to trust the decision made and allow time for the new metric to show its effectiveness, saying, “Let’s give the metric more than a week to see where those numbers go.”

As the meeting concluded, the call for unity among schools was clear. The board member encouraged collaboration across the community to support Bedford County students in their pursuit of sports and extracurricular activities, reinforcing that these experiences are vital to their overall school experience.