FCPS Announces New Guidelines for Athletic Events

An email went out to Fayette County Public School Families regarding an incident at an Aug. 23 high school football game. Below is the message from that email:

“Our district is committed to continually improving our practices to ensure the safety and security of students, staff and families. During the fourth quarter of the football game between Frederick Douglass and Bryan Station high school on August 23, fans were unnecessarily alarmed when unaccompanied minor students falsely shouted that someone had a gun. In reality, there was no threat.

This incident provided the perfect opportunity for high school principals across our district to come together and examine existing practices in order to look for ways to enhance safety during athletic events. Although each school has authority to set its own practices in this area, our six high schools have agreed to consistently adhere to the following:

• Beginning this week, football games between two Fayette County Public Schools teams will kick off at 6:30 p.m. instead of 7:30 p.m.
• Students will not be allowed to bring backpacks and/or large bags into evening high school athletic events.
• Students younger than high school age must be accompanied by an adult.
• Outside food or drinks will not be allowed at games.

These expectations will go into effect this week.

Athletic events are an important part of building school spirit and culture. We value these experiences and traditions not only for our students, but also our broader school communities. Please help our high schools as they implement these changes in an effort to provide a safe and fun experience for everyone in attendance at our games.”