A new program for student athletes who suffer concussions is going into effect in the Saint Joseph School District.

A new program will test students who are injured to determine when they can safely return to play sports without risking further injury.

All student-athletes will take a baseline test. Anyone treated for a concussion will take the test again to see if there’s been any damage. A doctor would evaluate the results and decide if the athlete can safely return to competition

The test was developed by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. School officials don’t want to put any athlete at a greater risk of getting a second concussion that may cause more extensive and permanent damage, Athletic Director Doug Flowers said.

The program is nationally recognized, Assistant to the Superintendent Steve Huff said.

“It is used by about 28 NFL teams, the U.S. Olympic teams and its been endorsed by the NCAA,” Huff said. “It’s a solid, solid program.”

Injured student’s don’t get second chances, Superintendent Melody Smith said.

“They don’t get extra chances if they are injured when they are children,” Smith said. “By children I mean these people who are children in adult bodies putting 110% out on the field or the court or wherever they are. “

This may be a significant policy for the district, Smith added.

“I feel better about this policy probably than anything that has crossed my desk in five years,” Smith said.