Philosophy: The WIAA and its member schools
recognize that the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs is a significant
health problem for many students, resulting in negative effects on behavior,
learning and their total development.
The use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs by students affects academic
achievement, personal growth, extracurricular activities participation and the
development of related skills. Others
affected by the misuse and abuse are family, teammates and other significant
persons in their lives.
The
WIAA and its member schools believe that the close contact of parents/coaches,
advisors, students and communities in interscholastic activities and classrooms
provides a unique opportunity to observe, confront and assist one another.
It
is the philosophy of the WIAA and its member schools that students should be
encouraged and supported in their efforts to develop and maintain a
chemical-free lifestyle.
The position
of WIAA is:
1. To emphasize the health and safety of students while participating in activities and the long-term physical and emotional effects of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs on their health;
2. To promote a sense of order and discipline among students;
3. To confirm and support existing state laws which restrict the use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs;
4. To assist schools in the establishment of policies that are consistent with WIAA minimum standards of athletic and activity eligibility;
5. To recognize and support schools that have programs to assist students who desire to resist peer pressure which directs them toward the use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs;
6. To require local school boards of directors to adopt, administer and implement policies and procedures regarding tobacco, alcohol and other drug use by athletes;
7. To provide and assist the schools of the state in developing and administering model policies; to act as a clearinghouse for recent court rulings, opinions, trainers and facilitators.