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After hosting a virtual “Chat and Chew” session on sports and extracurricular activities on Tuesday evening, Selma City Schools (SCS) leaders, coaches and administrators have agreed to suspend middle school sports for the Fall 2020 season.

“This has been an extremely difficult decision to make but after weighing several options this was the best decision,” said Selma High Scholl Athletic Director Katasha Turner. “Our middle school scholar- athletes will have an opportunity and option to ‘play-up’ granted all required forms are completed, returned and academically in good standing. We want to continue to let our scholar athletes know whether you participate in athletes this year or now, we want

you to continue to focus and continue to become Selma Strong and excellent academically as they prepare or the next season, to be strong on the field and in the classroom. Continue to trust the process and be excellent.”

“We know that this action will incredibly disappoint our middle school scholar athletes and families,” said SCS Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams. “Please understand that we have carefully considered all options. Again, our top priority is the health and safety of our students, staff, and families.”

The only middle school in SCS’s district is R.B. Hudson STEAM Academy, which is attended by sixth, seventh and eighth graders.

Fall sports that are being suspended for the fall 2020 season include football, volleyball and cheerleading.

The district still plans to offer high school sports and other extracurricular activities this fall, though students will be required to sign an SCS Extracurricular Waiver.

The SCS Extracurricular Waiver is a release of liability from the school system making sure students and parents understand the risks that come with participating in sports or other extracurricular activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A copy of the waiver is available online at selmacityschools.org.