New State Guidance Permits Limited High School Athletic Practices On School Campuses (Photo) - 10/30/20

WALLA WALLA - Following new guidance from Governor Inslee’s office and the Washington State Department of Health, district high school athletes will be allowed to participate in limited practice sessions beginning next week through December 19. As presented to the School Board during their October 20 meeting, Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith reviewed the new guidelines that have been established to keep students and coaches safe.

Under the new state recommendations, school districts’ are permitted to offer varying levels of in-person activities depending on community COVID-19 transmission levels and risk level of the specific sport. As outlined in the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association Return to Play Guidelines, based on current COVID levels in Walla Walla County, schools are permitted to hold practices in small groups. Referred to as pods, up to six students at a time will be permitted to work on skill development. Stringent safety measures such as symptom screening, cleaning/sanitization of equipment and mask wearing criteria will be followed. Tournaments, competitions and spectators are not allowed under the new guidelines at current countywide COVID activity levels.   

“Our coaches and student-athletes are excited to resume some of their activities and begin preparing for athletic seasons that are now scheduled to start in January,” said District Athletic Director Dirk Hansen. “We have trained staff on safety measures and expectations and will strictly adhere to recommended protocols during all of our activities.”

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