Parents debate: Should 6th graders be allowed to play sports?

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. (AP) – It appears fewer than half of North Carolina’s school districts are allowing 6th grade students to play middle school sports.

The Asheville Citizen-Times reported a survey by former North Carolina Athletic Directors Association board member Greg Grantham found that at least 46 school districts are allowing 6th grade students to take part in middle school sports this year.

Grantham says he received responses from 103 of the state’s 115 school districts. He says most school districts do not allow the younger students to compete.

The State Board of Education decided before the beginning of the current school year to allow each district to decide on 6th grade sports participation. The 6th graders are not allowed to play football.

Some parents have safety concerns about the new policy.
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1/25/2017 7:06:54 AM (GMT -5:00)