West Irondequoit administrators presented a draft athletic and extracurricular participation agreement May 29 that would standardize academic eligibility, behavior expectations and appeal steps for students who participate in interscholastic sports or co‑curricular activities.
The document, developed by a committee of coaches, advisors, parents, students and administrators, establishes academic criteria (students failing two or more courses become ineligible for contests/performances until progress is made) and a monitoring tool commonly referred to as a ‘‘blue card’’ for teachers to sign and track progress. The draft outlines a three‑tier approach to misconduct: first offense emphasizes restorative supports and counseling; second offense includes loss of participation; third offense may include suspension from activities and referral to law enforcement if appropriate.
Administrators said the agreement is intended to align with the district code of conduct, provide predictable, equitable expectations across activities and ensure students have access to supports such as case managers and problem‑solving teams. It also proposes integrating the agreement into online athletic registration (Arbiter/FamilyID) and into preseason coach and advisor meetings.
Board members and meeting participants raised implementation questions. Trustees asked how the policy would apply to co‑curricular programs that meet during class time (for example, ensembles and some DECA activities), how in‑season versus yearlong sanctions should be defined, whether academic ineligibility should carry into subsequent seasons, and how the district will protect privacy and avoid the visible stigma of a paper ‘‘blue card.’’ Administrators said they are exploring digital alternatives and will define which activities are covered and how appeals and case‑by‑case accommodations (for IEP or medical reasons) are handled.
Administrators said the policy will be an administrative regulation and brought it to the board for a first read because of the policy’s scope and the potential for appeals; attorneys advised on appeal language tied to suspension and disciplinary processes. The committee also recommended clearer lists of which clubs and performing groups are covered, improved tracking for transportation and sign‑out procedures, and a communication app to standardize coach/parent notifications.
No vote was taken. Staff will revise the draft to address trustees’ questions about scope, digital tracking, appeals and how the policy applies to performing arts and co‑curricular activities.