By John Mesh
Ad Astra Radio
This is really confusing to me.
I thought the state’s “bell-to-bell no cell” policy (which went into effect the first week of August) was just about high school students not being able to use their cell phones from first bell to last bell.
I did not think the new policy meant taking away sports-related social media pages and schools having limited contact with the media. Perhaps the Kansas State High School Activities Association can clear this up.
I hope coaches and athletic/activities directors still will send their schedules, team questionnaires, scores, statistics, etc. to the media.
Most schools have posted their schedules online on various websites on Facebook, Twitter/X etc.
According to WIBW TV, coaches have taken to social media to express concern about how the new policy is impacting their ability to communicate with their student-athletes.
The “bell to bell no cell” policy goes beyond students being able to use their cell phones during school hours.
While coaches are no longer allowed to have any contact with their student-athletes on social media, how will this affect media coverage?
“As far as the social media aspect, it’s pretty direct that a school employee should not have any direct involvement or communication with their students via social media,” said KSHSAA assistant executive director Jeremy Holaday.
Area coaches and the media will have to go through an adjustment period with the new policy and we will have to be patient.
But we still need area coaches’ and activities directors’ help in making sure all of our area schools and athletes are covered.
John Mesh covers Reno County and area sports for Ad Astra Radio. His email address is ohnjaye@gmail.com. Coaches and athletic/activities directors are welcome to send him their scores, statistics, comments and other information.