Introduction & Philosophy
Discrimination Disclaimer
Employees, students, and parents are hereby notified Fort Morgan Public Schools does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for discrimination concerns. Inquiries concerning any of the above or Title IX and Rehabilitation Act Regulations should be directed to Jason Frasco, Human Resources Director, Morgan County School District Re-3, 715 W. Platte Avenue, Fort Morgan, Colorado 80701, and phone 970-867- 5633, extension 48120. There will be no discrimination or retaliation against any member of the school community for his/her participation in the presentation or resolution of a complaint.
Statement of Code of Ethics
To be of maximum effectiveness in serving and fostering the education of the students so entrusted to us and in promoting and supplementing the regular curriculum, it is the duty of all concerned with our secondary athletic and activities programs to:
- Cultivate an awareness that participation in athletics and activities is part of the total educational process and as such, the coach/advisor should neither seek nor expect academic privileges for the participants.
- Emphasize the proper ideals of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and fair play as they relate to the lifetime impact on the participants.
- Develop a working awareness and understanding of all rules and guidelines governing competition, both in letter and intent.
- Recognize that the purpose of athletics and activities is to promote the physical, mental, moral, social, and emotional well-being of the individual participants.
- Avoid any practice or technique which would endanger the present or future welfare or safety of any participant.
- Adhere to policies which do not force or encourage students to specialize or restrict them from participation in a variety of activities.
- Refuse to disparage an opponent, an official, an administrator or spectator in any aspect of the activity.
- Strongly encourage the development of proper health habits: the non-use of chemicals, including alcohol, steroids, tobacco in any form and other mood-altering substances.
- Always exemplify proper self-control, accepting adverse decisions without public display of emotion or dissatisfaction with the officials or judges.
- Encourage all to judge the true success of the athletic and activities programs based on the attitude of the participants and spectators, rather than based on a win or loss.
Purpose
The purpose of this handbook is to communicate to parents, athletes, coaches, and administrators the philosophies, standards, rules, and expectations applicable to participants in the Morgan County School District interscholastic athletic/activities program. The clear understanding and consistent application of these matters will help ensure that students have the best possible experience in their respective athletic/activity programs.
Athletic/Activity Goal Statement
Our mission is to provide opportunities for students to enrich their high school experience through participation on competitive athletic teams and extra-curricular clubs. We are dedicated to providing experiences that promote character development, integrity, sportsmanship, and a strong work ethic, while complementing the academic curriculum.
Athletic Philosophy
Fort Morgan High School believes that a safe and dynamic athletic program is an integral part of the total educational process and is vital to the character and educational development of all student athletes. Fort Morgan High School’s athletic programs provide a variety of experiences that aid in the development of favorable habits and attitudes in students that will prepare them for adult life, including physical development, coordination, a healthy self-concept, pride, and good sportsmanship. Good sportsmanship practices have lifelong values. The athlete who acts fairly, who observes laws and customs, who treats others with consideration, and who takes adversity with dignity earns respect. Students in today’s schools are tomorrow’s community citizens, and as adults will demonstrate many of the attitudes they are now learning. Fort Morgan High School’s interscholastic athletic programs follow the constitution and bylaws of the Colorado High School Activities Association and affiliated leagues.
Varsity
Varsity-level programs are the most competitive of the athletic programs and, for that reason, include the most skilled and/or well-prepared student athletes. The student athlete earns the privilege to make the team. It is the coach’s responsibility to field the most competitive team available; starting position and athlete playing time is at the coach’s discretion.
Sub-Varsity
Sub-varsity programs are focused on the development of skills necessary for participation on the varsity level. The student athlete earns the privilege to make the sub-varsity team. The coach of any sub-varsity program should emphasize development of areas needing improvement on an individual and team basis. The coach will be encouraged to play as many participants as possible.