Athletics

Athletics Clear Bag Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I show up at the athletic facility entrances with a bag that is not permitted?

Prohibited bags will be turned away from the facility before they reach the entrance. There is no bag check so bags will need to be returned to your vehicle.

Can I place my non-clear bag inside of a clear bag?

No. If a non-clear bag is placed inside of a clear bag, it will not be allowed in the venue. Small, pocket-sized wallets are allowable.

Is a tinted, but “see through” bag allowed, if it meets the size restriction? 

No. Color tinted bags do not comply with the Clear Bag Policy.

Can patrons carry cameras, smart phones, or other approved items separately from what they put in a clear bag?

Yes. Phones and cameras can be carried into the facility as long as it is not in its own bag.

Are diaper bags permitted?

Diapers and wipes can be carried in approved clear bags; however, non-clear diaper bags are not permitted. Persons with infants and toddlers may utilize a clear book bag as a diaper bag.

If I have certain items that I need to bring into the athletic facility for medical reasons and they won’t fit in the clear bag, what do I do?

Medical bags do not have to be clear. Patrons with medical bags that do not comply with the athletics bag policy will be allowed to enter the athletic facility once the medical bag is searched.

Additional questions should be directed to the RCPS Director of Athletics or your school Athletic Director.

Heat Safety

Board policy requires that the principal at each school set up procedures and guidelines to ensure student safety during outside activities.  At a minimum the procedures will include a heat index reading taken immediately prior to participation in outside activities; an education program for coaches, athletes, and parents on hydration, sports nutrition and injury prevention; and minimal equipment required for proper hydration as well as treatment of symptoms surrounding heat illness. The Board has also developed regulations that set minimum standards for heat safety which can be viewed at the Board's website - JGFB-R

Sports Medicine Program

The Sports Medicine Team (physicians, athletic trainer, and physical therapist) develops a comprehensive injury care program that includes:

•  injury prevention strategies
•  proper, accurate assessment of injury type and severity
•  appropriate first aid
•  determining if and when an injured athlete can return to play
•  referral of injured athlete, when indicated, to an appropriate medical facility
•  rehabilitation programs to return injured athletes to practice and competition as quickly as possible with minimal risk of injury.

Several local physicians work with RCPS Athletic Teams to ensure that adequate care is provided to student athletes, and that they safely return to their activities with limited risk of further injury.

Student Athletic Aide Program

A meeting will be held in the spring for students and parents interested in participating in the Student Athletic Aide program and summer training camp. Parents and students are encouraged to attend to meet with current student participants and receive more information about the program, camp dates, and camp cost.

The Student Athletic Aide (SAA) Program is designed for students who have worked as athletic team managers and for students interested in working with athletic teams in the future. Students interested in Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, and other Sports Medicine fields are encouraged to participate.

The goal of the program is to introduce students to the athletic training profession and educate them to ensure that they have the skills needed to assist athletic teams. Any Rockdale County middle or high school student interested in being a part of the SAA Program is encouraged to contact Kechia Seabrooks Rowles, 770-929-0176, extension 34235,  krowles@rockdale.k12.ga.us

RCPS Athletics Philosophy

Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) believes that interscholastic athletics is an integral component of the total educational experience. We believe students must be aware that athletic participation requires a commitment to their team, school, coaches, community, and most important, themselves. We believe that athletic participation must aid in the physical, social, intellectual, and emotional development of each and every student who chooses to participate. Our objectives include the following:

•  RCPS will be a fearless advocate for our student athletes to help them acquire important skills to aid in their development into successful citizens both on and off their respective playing fields.

•  RCPS embraces the concept of the student athlete as, first and foremost, a student while at the same time understanding the benefits gained through athletic competition.

•  Student athletes are expected to be model students in the classroom through their efforts and respect shown to school staff and adherence to school rules and expectations.

•  Coaches will be positive role models who display an in-depth knowledge of their activity, possess exemplary teaching skills, exhibit strong leadership, demonstrate ethical behavior, demonstrate interest in the holistic development of their athletes, and make an effort to explore post-secondary athletic opportunities for their student athletes.

•  Coaches will understand that participation in interscholastic athletics is voluntary.

•  Coaches will refrain from "mandating" off-season practices in compliance with RCPS bylaws; instead student athletes should be encouraged.

•  While RCPS recognizes that not every student athlete will compete at the collegiate level, every effort will be made to ensure each and every athlete is prepared both physically and intellectually, and informed of the academic eligibility requirements to qualify and meet the admission requirements of institutions of higher learning.

RCPS offers several opportunities for participation in extracurricular activities that enhance the educational, emotional, physical, and social development of students. Research has shown a direct correlation between athletic participation and academic achievement; and extracurricular activities foster the development and demonstration of leadership skills. For these reasons, students are encouraged to participate in one or more extracurricular activities while in school. RCPS sponsors numerous athletic teams at the middle school, junior varsity, and varsity levels. For information regarding athletics and extracurricular activities at a specific school, please contact the school directly or visit the website of the school.

COVID-19 Health & Safety

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Health & Safety, RCPS Athletic Training Education Resource presentation (PDF)  
(PPT)

 

It shall be the policy of the Rockdale County Board of Education to prohibit discrimination based on gender in its elementary and secondary athletic programs. Any student or student’s parent or guardian may file a complaint using this form if he or she feels that the school system has violated the Georgia Equity in Sports Act.

CLICK HERE for grievance form.

This form must be completed in its entirety and submitted to:
Dr. Kechia Seabrooks Rowles, CMAA, LAT/ATC
Sports Equity Coordinator
Rockdale County Public Schools
960 Pine Street NE, Conyers, Georgia 30012
(770) 918-6184