Higher Academic Standards for School Sports: Make Sense or Too Tough?
Let us know what you think about proposed changes to the athletic eligibility requirements for student-athletes at Danvers High School.
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Higher academic standards for Danvers High School student-athletes are being eyed by the Danvers School Committee.
The changes would be part of edits to the high school's student handbook and, if adopted when the committee meets next month, would bar students to participate in sports and extracurricular activities if they have failed a class in the prior marking period.
It was not immediately clear how many students could be affected by the change. It would go into place at the start of the winter sports season.
The change received a positive reception from the committee last week and will be up for a final vote in September.
| Past Policy | New Proposed Policy |
| Student-athletes can have one F and need to have two Ds in major subject areas. Pass/fail classes and physical education do not count toward eligibility | Student-athletes must have a 70 or higher in 2 of 5 major subject areas. All other classes must be a 65 or higher. Must pass all classes. |
Does the new policy make sense? Or is it too tough? Could it keep some athletes off the feidl or court? Tell us in the comments?
Carla King
7:13 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012
I think it makes sense! They are in school for an education, not for sports. Although sports was huge with my student, I would not have let her played if she didn't have good grades. School comes first, then sports.
Sadly I know a child who was such a great player he could have gotten a free ride and at any college.... but because of grades, he couldn't get into any!
Betsy Gadbois
9:46 am on Saturday, August 18, 2012
I absolutely support this - and I am shocked that the standards were so low. This change is essential and will help us to continue to help our students reach higher out in the world. The more we expect of them... the more they get used to expecting of themselves.
Richard Craig
8:31 pm on Saturday, August 18, 2012
Sound mind, sound body. Take care of the academics, pass all of your courses, and then play sports, if you wish. Plenty of help available for students to help them take care of their responsibilities with their academics.
David Maynard
10:48 pm on Saturday, August 18, 2012
My 3 so far are lucky to have great grades....but they are young and peer pressure and "the wrong crowd" hasnt hit yet. That being said, i would personally pull them from any program if the grades slipped. I fully agree with this. My kids go to school for academics not sports. If sports are mixed in then great, they can help out alot.....but not at the expense of a good education.
Keith Lucy
9:37 am on Monday, August 20, 2012
Should be nothing lower than a C. Being a good student helps you be a better athlete, but being a better athlete does not help yo be a better student.