Henniker board approves student handbook updates, adds athletics standards and preschool drop-off changes

The Henniker School Board approved updates to the student and parent handbook, including procedural changes for preschool drop-off, athletics participation standards and the process for required forms.

Matt, presenting the handbook updates on June 4, said the board’s redlined copy highlighted changes such as returning preschool drop-off to the bus loop after buses leave to better support preschool students, and clarifying that arrival and dismissal times remain K–8 while preschool will be on a separate schedule. The board approved the handbook as presented.

The athletic addendum was updated to reflect a minimum standard of a 2.0 grade-level threshold for participation and to align middle-school concussion baseline testing and return-to-play protocols with established practice. Administrators said the district will use a common SAU 24 online forms portal to manage required participation forms from grades 5–12 so parents can maintain a single account for all children. Rodney, the athletics coordinator, is working with neighboring schools to harmonize required forms and tournament scheduling practices.

The handbook also added language on spectator conduct at events, emphasizing that spectators should be positive role models, respect officials and not enter benches or locker rooms. Administrators said the changes aim to clarify expectations for students, families and coaches ahead of expanded athletics offerings next year.

Board members discussed preschool drop-off logistics and the decision to revert to a prior approach, citing decreased car-drop congestion since pandemic-era changes. The handbook changes were approved by voice vote.