Elkhorn Area School DistrictConcussion Return to Learn/Return to Play Plans
After the initial diagnosis of concussion by a trained medical professional, an individualized Return to Learn Plan will be put in place, as well as a Return to Play Plan if the student is a student athlete. In the early stages of recovery after a concussion, increased cognitive demands, such as academic coursework, as well as physical demands, may worsen symptoms and prolong recovery. Every student’s injury and recovery is unique and requires careful observation and support from parents, physicians, and school staff. A student’s symptoms may range from severe to mild, chronic to infrequent, or constant to intermittent. Some students will have a full recovery, whereas other students may not. A comprehensive Return to Learn Plan/Return to Play Plan will provide appropriate provisions for adjustment of academic coursework/athletic participation on an individual basis.
Input from your physician will be needed to help the school district make a plan which will benefit the student. The plan will be modified based on the student’s rate of recovery. Updated physician's orders are required every 30 days per Wisconsin Stat. 118.15 (1) (c). If after 30 days, the student has not returned fully to academics, a team meeting, which may include the student, parent/guardian, school administration, school social worker, school counselor, school nurse and instructor, will take place.
A student diagnosed with a concussion is expected to follow The Elkhorn Area School District Code of Conduct and the Elkhorn Area School District Attendance Policy. Physician’s orders are required to excuse the student from attending school. Ideally, the plan is in place to support the student’s return to optimal health and continued learning.
Based on the student's recovery, there may be situations in which the student is not able to continue with his/her anticipated educational plan. Examples of changes may include: dropping or retaking classes, delaying finals, attending summer school, extending the student’s anticipated graduation date, or altering the student’s academic and career plan.
Following a concussion, the student must have a physician’s order indicating the student is able to fully participate in school core academic activities prior to involvement in music, choir, band, technical education, physical education, recess, or extracurricular activities.
Adhering to an individualized Return to Learn Plan/Return to Play Plan, based on the accommodations indicated by the trained medical professional, will promote recovery and prevent ongoing symptoms.