Student & Family Athletic Handbook

Participation in athletics is a privilege. Student-athletes who represent our schools and district are expected to uphold standards of conduct that reflect positively on themselves, their team, their school, and our district.

Our athletic code establishes the minimum expectations for participation in interscholastic athletics and is administered by coaches in collaboration with school administrators and athletic directors. Because participation in athletics is voluntary and carries additional responsibilities, the expectations and consequences outlined in this code may be more stringent than those contained in the LOSD K-12 Student and Family Handbook.

Student-athletes are ambassadors of their team, school, and community. Their conduct, both on and off campus, should demonstrate good citizenship, respect for others, and adherence to school and district expectations.

Conduct that is detrimental to the team, school, or athletic program may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from participation. Criminal acts, violence, intimidation, harassment, discrimination, or other serious misconduct, whether occurring at school or in the community, will not be tolerated and may result in immediate suspension from athletic participation.

Coaches may establish additional team expectations regarding behavior, provided that such expectations align with district values, policies, and practices, are communicated clearly, and are applied consistently. Any suspension or dismissal from a team or competition must be reviewed and approved by the athletic director.

Attendance at school for the entire day is a prerequisite for participation in contests or practices. School-related activities or appointments, with prior approval from the administration, are exempt from this regulation. Emergency situations may be reviewed and determined by the athletic director.

A student must have an athletic clearance form issued by the athletic office. The athlete must be placed on the attendance roster before being issued any equipment and before beginning practice. In order for an athlete to receive clearance from the athletic office, the athlete must have the following: 

• A physical on file with the athletic office every 2 years or after a significant medical event, such as surgery or a broken bone. 
• Physical must be on the required OSAA form. 
• Documented medical insurance coverage. 
• Parent/guardian release signatures on all required forms. 
• Student and parent/guardian signature regarding the athletic/activities student and family handbook. 
• Pay to participate, receipt, or waiver information if applicable.

Students participating in athletics are required to carry insurance. Given the nature of athletic involvement, any athlete is subject to injury. There is always a risk of a significant or permanent injury or death to an athlete, and these accidents happen each year in school athletic programs in the United States. Lake Oswego schools’ athletic programs are well-conceived, carefully coached, and well-equipped to enable students to safely and successfully achieve their individual and team goals.

All student-athletes participating in LOSD athletics, including those in district-sponsored club sports, are subject to OSAA academic eligibility requirements. Athletic eligibility is based on OSAA standards and is separate from LOSD diploma requirements.

Students seeking an LOSD diploma must earn 25 credits to graduate. The additional district credit beyond the State of Oregon's 24-credit graduation requirement is not required for athletic eligibility. Student-athletes must meet the OSAA standards described below.

A. Minimum Enrollment and Passing Requirement

In accordance with OSAA Rule 8.1.1, student-athletes must be enrolled in and passing at least five (5) classes during the current grading period to be eligible for competition. Under the district's block schedule, students are expected to be passing the equivalent of five out of eight semester courses.

B. Progress Toward Graduation

OSAA Rules 8.1.2 through 8.1.4 require student-athletes to make satisfactory progress toward Oregon graduation requirements. To remain eligible, students must have earned at least the following number of credits by the beginning of each academic year:

Students who do not meet these minimum credit requirements may be ineligible for athletic participation unless they qualify for an exception permitted under OSAA rules.

Additional eligibility requirements and exceptions are outlined in the OSAA Handbook, including Rules 8.1 and 8.2. Families may review the current handbook through the OSAA website.

Student-athletes are expected to comply with the athletic code, school rules, and LOSD policies at all times.

Violations of the athletic code, school policies, or school board policies, including, but not limited to, hazing, harassment, bullying, inappropriate use of social media, violence, intimidation, discrimination, possession or use of tobacco or vaping products (including look-alike products), alcohol, non-prescription drugs, or the misuse, possession, or distribution of prescription drugs, may result in disciplinary action.

Consequences may include suspension from athletic participation for part or all of the season, or other disciplinary measures, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.

The following alcohol, drug, and tobacco/vaping policies establish expectations for participation and consequences for students involved in LOSD high school athletic programs.

A dangerous drug is defined as any drug obtained with or without a prescription that has been used in a potentially harmful manner. This includes, but is not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, and illegal performance-enhancing drugs. 

The use, possession, and/or distribution of tobacco/vaping, tobacco/vaping look-alike products, alcohol, non-prescription drugs, or the distribution of prescription drugs by any participant will not be tolerated in the interscholastic athletic program. While the procedure below will be followed, LOSD may offer sports where student-athletes have limited supervision. With supervision in mind, parents/guardians may be asked to attend all practices and games so that a student may remain on a team after their first violation. This includes both regular school hours and non-school time. Violation of this rule will result in the following consequences: 

A. First Violation: Alcohol - Drugs - Tobacco/Vape 

Any participant who incurs an infraction on school premises during school hours, off school grounds, on school or non-school days, or at any school-sponsored sport will be subject to the same sanctions as any other student. 

In Season

The student will be suspended from any interscholastic athletic practice or competition for the duration of any out-of-school suspension/expulsion. A first violation will result in an athletic suspension from competitions for 10% of the season, beginning with the first contest. All calculations will be rounded up; for example, 2.3 games will be counted as 3 games missed. 

Chemical Abuse Assessment

The student will be required to complete a chemical abuse assessment at the parent/guardian’s expense from an approved outside assessor. The outside assessor will develop an individualized program to assist the student in becoming and remaining drug/alcohol free. The student and parent(s) and/or guardian(s) agree to follow the program developed by the outside assessor. The student will remain suspended from competition until the chemical abuse assessment has been administered. The student will be required to attend any practice sessions, team meetings, or competitions scheduled following his/her chemical assessment appointment. If a student is suspended from school, they will not be able to participate in any school activities during the suspension.  

B. Second Violation: Alcohol - Drugs - Tobacco/Vape 

LOSD will follow the same procedure as set forth for a first violation, including an additional assessment at the parent's expense, except that for a second violation (not in the same season/performance period), the suspension from interscholastic competition/performance will be for 25% of the season, beginning with the first competition contest. All calculations will be rounded up. 

If it is the second violation, the administration office's consequences will hold precedence over those stated here. If a student has committed an offense that may be grounds for expulsion, the school administration’s consequences will take precedence. 

C. Third violation: Alcohol - Drugs - Tobacco/Vape 

The student-athlete will be removed from their current team and not be allowed to participate with any other athletic teams for 90 school days. 

If the athlete does not incur a third infraction, the cycle of violations will restart at the beginning of the next school year. 

D. Association Violation 

Any student participating in athletics who finds himself/herself in the company of others who illegally possess, use, transmit, or are under the influence of alcohol, any form of dangerous drugs, or a controlled substance is expected to leave immediately (within a reasonable time frame, e.g., time to secure a ride, safe transportation). Failure to do so will result in notification of the parent/guardian and the possibility of the same consequences listed above in Section A as determined by the athletic director. A second offense will result in discipline as if it were a violation of this policy. The only exception to this section of the policy would be when a parent/guardian accompanies a student to a family, social, or cultural function where alcohol is served. However, students must refrain from personal use. Students who receive wine as part of a religious ceremony, such as Holy Communion or Jewish Seder, will not be penalized. 

E. End of or Out-of-Season 

If the student-athlete is nearing the end of a season or is not currently in a season, a first violation will result in an athletic suspension that follows the penalties for in-season violations, except that the suspension will commence on the first contest date of the student’s next season of participation. 

Any student-athlete serving an athletic suspension must attend and participate in all practices, team meetings, and competitions, although they will not be permitted to actively compete. 

F. Self-Reporting

Prior to being investigated or apprehended for a violation involving the use of alcohol, dangerous drugs, or a controlled substance, the student may voluntarily request assistance from school officials. In the event of this self-reporting, there may be no disciplinary consequences imposed upon the student, provided that: 

F.1 The report is independent and in advance of the investigation. 

F.2 The student completes a drug assessment and complies with their recommendations. 

F.3 Subsequent incidents of alcohol, dangerous drugs, or controlled substance use will result in a Second Violation. 

G. Transfer of Violations

A student who transfers from one LOSD high school to another will maintain cumulative offense status under this policy. 

H. Law Enforcement

LOSD will seek assistance from the Lake Oswego Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to work together to provide a safe, drug- and alcohol-free environment in which to live. The police agencies, in accordance with state and federal laws, will work with our high school administrators to assist in enforcing this policy.

When a coach or advisor becomes aware of a student's violation of the athletic code, he/she must notify the athletic director immediately. The athletic director will complete the investigation and assess appropriate consequences as outlined by this handbook. 

Athletic contests should be conducted in an atmosphere that places maximum emphasis on good sportsmanship, positive relationships between schools, and the educational benefits of competition. Student athletes should compete under conditions which: 

• Provide a fair and equal opportunity for success. 
• Make maximum provisions for participants' safety. 
• Provide for a broad sense of activities and a balance in competitive levels. 
• Preclude the embarrassment, humiliation, or demeaning of any team or individual. 
• Emphasize the highest possible level of professionalism and personal integrity among all teachers, coaches, and administrators involved. 

Athletes may have the option of a one-week (calendar week) layoff between the end of a sport season and the beginning of a new one.

Athletes will attend all practices to be eligible for contests. If an absence is unavoidable, it is the athlete's responsibility to notify their coach prior to practice. Any athlete serving an out-of-school suspension will not be eligible for athletic practice or competition for the duration of the suspension. Athletes must be in attendance at school for the full school day to participate, unless they have a prearranged absence (e.g., a doctor's appointment) or clearance from the athletic office. 

If a school or the district is closed due to inclement weather, all practices and games will be canceled. The only exception will be if the executive director of secondary schools/district athletic director grants permission to hold a practice or game.

The Lake Oswego School Board establishes athletic participation fees annually. 

Families with students participating in multiple OSAA-sanctioned sports will pay no more than the annual family maximum established by the board. Club sport participation fees do not count toward the annual family maximum.

Participation fees must be paid after registration approval and before a student-athlete may participate in practices, competitions, or other team activities. Payment procedures are available through each high school's athletic office and website.

Financial Assistance

LOSD is committed to ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent students from participating in athletics. Families who need financial assistance may apply for a fee waiver or reduction by submitting the appropriate form to the athletic director.

Refunds

Participation fees will be refunded under the following circumstances:

• Students who are not selected for a team before the first regularly scheduled contest will receive a full refund.
• Students who are removed from a team for disciplinary reasons are not eligible for a refund.
• Students who voluntarily withdraw from a team for reasons other than disciplinary action may receive a prorated refund. Refunds will be calculated based on the portion of the season remaining, divided into four equal segments. Refunds will be issued only for complete segments remaining at the time of withdrawal.
• Refund criteria apply to both OSAA and club sports.

Each high school collects athletic participation fees via SchoolCash Online or in person from the high school bookkeeper.

Open and respectful communication among student-athletes, parents/guardians, coaches, and school staff is essential to a positive athletic experience. When questions or concerns arise, they should be addressed promptly and at the lowest appropriate level. The following process is intended to promote direct communication and provide a clear pathway for resolving concerns.

Procedure

1. Athlete and coach meet 
2. Athlete, parent/guardian, and coach meet 
3. Members of Step Two meet with the athletic director 
4. Members of Step Three meet with the principal 
5. Members of Step Four meet with the superintendent or designee 

Please do not attempt to confront a coach before, during, or immediately after a contest or practice. Meetings to discuss concerns must be scheduled at a mutually agreed-upon time.

The district encourages parents and students to appeal a rule or a procedure if they feel it has been unfairly enforced or if there are extenuating circumstances. 

Coaches are expected to listen to such appeals with an open mind and an understanding of, and support for, the value of such dialogue. If an appeal is requested, the appeal procedure is as follows: 

1. The appeal shall be in writing. 
2. The initial meeting will be with the coach(es) of that particular sport. 
3. If necessary, the next meeting will involve the student, parent/guardians, coaches, and the athletic director. 
4. If a further review is desired, the principal will meet with the above parties to determine an outcome. 
5. If not resolved, the final appeal will be to a district administrator assigned by the superintendent. 

The district-level decision is final and not subject to further appeal. 

Student-athletes must be transported to and from another school only in compliance with the transportation policy. 

Transportation Waiver:

Transportation waivers for parents/guardians to grant permission for their student to transport themselves to a school-sponsored athletic event or to be transported by another student’s parent are available in the athletic office. This waiver must be completed at least 24 hours in advance of the event. A member of the coaching staff should accompany student-athletes on two-way bus trips. That school shall be responsible for the acts of its school team, school groups, or individuals while on trips or while participating in any such event. If the district has provided transportation to an event, the student-athlete is expected to ride with the team. Parents may transport their own children home from competitions after making visual contact with the school representative at the event.

LOSD follows all OSAA rules regarding athletic seasons, practices, competitions, and out-of-season activities. Practice and competition schedules vary by sport and are established annually in accordance with OSAA calendars and regulations.

Student-athletes must complete registration requirements before participating in tryouts, practices, or competitions. Registration for each athletic season typically opens several weeks before the first day of practice.

Current registration deadlines, tryout dates, practice start dates, contest schedules, and other season-specific information are maintained on our high school's athletic website and through FinalForms. Families are responsible for reviewing these resources regularly to ensure they have the most up-to-date information.

For current athletic registration and season dates, please visit our school's athletic website.

• Must have passed five classes from the previous semester 
• Must be enrolled in at least five classes during the term of participation. 
• Must be on track to graduate.
• Must have a physical on file with the athletic office on the OSAA School Sports Pre-Participation Examination form, Part 1 by a parent/guardian and Part 2 by a licensed physician every two years 
• Completed athletic clearance 
• Have documented medical insurance coverage entered on the LOSD Athletic Clearance Form 
• Must have the participation fee paid to the bookkeeper

All student-athletes must be cleared through the bookkeeping office and the athletic department prior to any participation. 

The participation fee does not guarantee playing time in the sport. Below are some general guidelines in regard to playing time: 

Freshman and JV Teams (includes JV2 and Freshman 2, if available): An attempt will be made to play as many participants as possible; however, there may be situations where not all participants play in every contest (due to safety issues, close contests, or team rules).

Varsity Teams: It is recognized that not all participants may play in every contest.

When students check out school district uniforms or gear, they are responsible for returning them at the end of the season. Students with outstanding gear will not be allowed to participate in the next school season (for example, from boys soccer to basketball) until all gear is turned in. This will include the ability for that student to practice. For teams making the playoffs and having longer seasons, coaches will have one week to collect and record inventory. 

If a student has lost or failed to return a uniform or gear, they will be billed for the cost and must pay it before they can participate in the next sports season.

LOSD periodically reviews requests to add new athletic opportunities for students. The review process is designed to ensure that proposed sports align with student interest, available resources, facility capacity, equity considerations, and OSAA requirements.

Students, families, staff, or community members may request consideration of a new sport by contacting their school's principal, athletic director, or the district athletic director/Title IX coordinator. Current contact information is available on the district and school athletic websites.

Review Process

Step 1: Request Submission

A request to consider a new sport may be submitted in writing or communicated directly to a school or district administrator.

Step 2: Administrative Review

District staff will evaluate the proposal and may gather information, including:

• Student interest and anticipated participation
• Participation history, if applicable
• Availability of local competition and league opportunities
• Facility, equipment, staffing, and transportation needs
• Estimated implementation and ongoing costs
• Equity and Title IX considerations

Step 3: District Evaluation

The proposal will be reviewed by district leadership to determine feasibility and alignment with district priorities, available resources, and student needs. If additional information is needed, the proposal may be returned for further review or clarification.

Step 4: Implementation Planning

If approved, the district will develop an implementation plan that may include:

• Communication with students and families
• Facility and equipment planning
• Staffing and coaching assignments
• Budget and funding considerations
• League and competition scheduling

Approved sports will be introduced in accordance with the district's implementation timeline. Additional information regarding the Sport Offering Review Process is available through our school's athletic office.

In the event an athlete decides to quit a team, they will not be able to join another team’s upcoming off-season workouts. This is in place to prevent students who are not playing as much as they would like from quitting and then picking up the next sport. Our goal in the department is for them to finish what they begin. 

Coaches who are approached by a student/parent about this being a possibility will support the idea of finishing the current season. If the coach for the current season agrees to allow the student to begin the next sport, an exception will be made for this athlete. 

Example Timeline: Soccer player quits in October; previous soccer player wants to begin training with the basketball team.

1. The player DOES NOT get approval from the soccer coach to begin = player CANNOT begin practice until the first day of winter sports or the soccer season is over 

OR 

2. Player DOES get approval from the soccer coach to begin = player CAN begin practice with basketball

The goal of the athletic department at LOSD is to create full schedules for all our athletic teams. The numbers below represent a full schedule and the number of games a student-athlete would be suspended for in the event of a violation. In the event a schedule is not full, the school will base the percentage on the number of games scheduled for that season. Example: Baseball has 26 games, and only 19 are scheduled; a student in violation would be suspended for 1.9 games, so we would round up to 2, rather than serving a 3-game suspension based on the 26 total games.

*Cheer and Dance will be based on how many school events they perform at, as well as the individual team events they have scheduled for the season. These will be set by the athletic director in the summer.

*All percentages have been rounded up as mentioned in Section 6. 
**Please note that in golf, most matches are 18 Holes; if a suspension is for 5 nine-hole rounds, this will count as three 18-hole matches. 
***Cheer and Dance calculations will be set in the Summer, after the Athletic Director receives their schedules and determines how many halftime performances they will be performing. 
****Students who participate on both JV and Varsity teams (swing players) will sit out for both as their suspension. For example, in Football, a student would be ineligible for both games during the week of their suspension. This would not allow a student to miss a JV game and play in a varsity game during the same week.