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Board reviews proposed Novi athletic handbook; discussion centers on law-violation language, parity with other activities and concussion/insurance questions
Summary
Novi administrators presented a draft student-athlete handbook and board members discussed the document’s law-violation language, whether activity rules should apply more broadly to non-athletic extracurriculars, and medical/insurance procedures for concussion and injury.
Novi’s proposed student-athlete handbook came to the board March 20 for information and discussion, with Athletic Director Don Wachowski in attendance to answer questions.
Wachowski told the board the handbook’s purpose is to create a consistent culture and provide transparent expectations for student athletes and their families. "When you think about a student athlete handbook... it's really about creating the culture that we want it to be, with our student athletes, with our families," Wachowski said.
Key points from the discussion - Law-violation language: Board members questioned why the handbook uses the term "may result" for some law-violation penalties rather than a firm "will," especially when other sections use more prescriptive wording. Wachowski explained the language gives staff discretion because severity and legal outcomes (charges versus convictions) vary case by case.
- Parity with non-athletic activities: Several board members asked whether the district should develop a parallel code of conduct for other extracurricular activities (music, drama, clubs) so students in different activities are treated consistently. Administrators said an activities code could be developed later and noted practical differences among clubs (frequency, performance schedules) complicate a straight copy of the athletic model. The administration said it will explore options and return with recommendations.
- Concussion and medical protocols: Board members asked whether Novi conducts preseason computerized baseline concussion testing. Wachowski said schools have debated the value of baseline testing and that district practice is to err on the side of caution: any student showing concussion symptoms will be removed and referred to a physician rather than rely solely on baseline screen results. He also noted families may purchase sport-specific supplemental insurance and that the Michigan High School Athletic Association offers catastrophic coverage in certain cases.
- Pay-to-participate and financial access: Board members asked how the district verifies eligibility for fee waivers now that many families receive free meals through district programs. Wachowski said families should still submit free/reduced lunch applications and contact the athletic office; he added the athletic office has never barred a student from participation for inability to pay and works on payment plans.
Board members praised the handbook’s inclusion of core values and student-developed "Novi 6" language, and recommended the administration produce a short one-page summary or infographic of the handbook’s main behavioral expectations for students and families. Administrators also noted the handbook will be part of the annual Final Forms registration process so families and students sign off on it before seasons begin.
