Jeannette, Greensburg Salem expect supervision of younger students at high school athletic events

Elementary age children attending sporting events at McKee Stadium must have a parent or guardian with them under a new policy approved this month by Jeannette City school directors.

Superintendent Matt Jones said the policy stands for any event at McKee Stadium, but it is primarily geared toward high school football games.

Students in kindergarten through sixth grade will be denied entry to the stadium unless they are accompanied by an adult who is responsible for their supervision. Jones said officials prefer that to be a family member.

“We just felt like it was time for a change,” he said.

The move is meant to keep young students safe, he said. In the event of an emergency, an unsupervised child could go missing or leave officials without a point of contact.

“We’ve got a situation where a lot of students walk in and out,” given the stadium is bordered by homes, and Jones said officials don’t want a young child walking alone in the dark. The Jayhawks play at home Friday against the Apollo-Ridge Vikings.

Greensburg Salem officials sent a letter to parents and guardians last week requesting that elementary and middle school students be supervised during home athletic events at Offutt Field.

“While we are pleased to see so many young people supporting the Golden Lion programs, we need your help in supervising them to ensure safety and enjoyment of the occasion,” the letter states.

Elementary students should stick with a parent or guardian in the bleachers for the entire game. There are designated areas in the bleachers for middle and high school students, and both age groups should stay in the bleachers during the game. The Golden Lions host the Ligonier Valley Rams on Friday.