Dear BPS Community,
Over the past six months, I have affirmed that Bristol Public Schools first priority is the safety and well-being of all
students. This priority extends to athletics. Athletics is an important outlet for student leadership, growth, character
development, and self-confidence. Our student-athletes continually inspire us with their commitment, resilience, and
teamwork both on and off the field. As we celebrate their achievements, it is equally important that we focus on their
well-being—physical, mental, and social-emotional. Coaches play a vital role in our youth’s development, and it is
crucial that they have the skills and supports they need to thrive in this role. Our goal is to foster and facilitate positive
relationships between coaches with student-athletes and families.

Our coaches, teachers, and administrators each play a vital role in fostering a positive learning environment throughout
every stage of our students’ educational journey. Together, we support student-athletes through intentional goal-
setting—both individually and as a team—while emphasizing academic and athletic growth, providing personalized
guidance and feedback, and maintaining clear, open communication with students and their families. When student-
athletes or their families have questions or concerns, we prioritize direct communication between students, families,
and coaches, ensuring that our coaches remain attuned to students' experiences and perspectives.

The Athletics Department is dedicated to the holistic development of athletes, coaches, and teams. This includes
supervising coaches and teams, delivering constructive feedback, and facilitating professional learning to enhance
coaches’ technical expertise, instructional strategies, and communication skills. If concerns arise that a team
environment does not align with our commitment to fostering a positive and growth-oriented experience, the Athletics
Department may initiate a thorough review. This process may involve interviewing student-athletes, meeting with
families, observing practices and competitions, and consulting with coaches, assistants, and other relevant individuals.
Consistent with the goal of supporting the holistic development of student-athletes, actions that could be taken after
the review is conducted can include facilitated conversations to assist in the restoration of the coach-student
relationship, additional student supports, continued professional development for coaching staff, increased targeted
supervision and feedback, administrative consequences, revision to athletic policies, or other necessary interventions.
In most cases, the outcomes of such reviews remain private and confidential. Formal communication regarding a
student-athlete’s continued participation and experience will be shared only with those directly involved in the review
process.

Bristol Public Schools will continue to strive to cultivate an environment where respect, inclusion, encouragement, and a
sense of belonging are at the heart of every classroom and every athletic team. A positive culture not only enhances
performance but also fosters lifelong friendships and character development. May we make a commitment to continue
to work together to build a school system that reflects our values and who we want our children to be.

In partnership,
Iris White
Acting Superintendent of Schools