The Indianola School Board updated their current policy on athletes and students returning to the field or classroom after a head injury at their most recent meeting. Superintendent Art Sathoff tells KNIA News Indianola has been out in front of attempting to be as cautious as possible around head injuries, not only for athletics, but to make sure students will be a full participant when learning in school.

“We’ve had a couple staff members receive extra training in head injuries, and both have been very involved in our protocol. Students have also participated in a research study looking for saliva chemical markers of a concussion. We also have the organization CTE Hope to help with the endeavor of fighting concussions. Overall it’s just another way we can be cognizant of keeping our kids healthy and safe.”

Sathoff also said Indianola has other things beside the protocol, such as providing football helmets with extra protection, and when the playing field needs new turf there will be discussions about adding an additional layer underneath to cushion a fall.