Safety

  • The results of the AAPA/ATPA survey were reviewed and discussed.  There was not broad agreement on the sample policies, with the exception of requiring a waiver for gymnasts to leave the gym unaccompanied.  While there are questions about implementation, this seems like the most promising option. 
  • Parents expressed frustration about not having communication directly from the Gymnastics Program Director and Coaches - most notably when a safety incident occurred in Fall 2020 and during the COVID-19 facility decisions.   DPR understands that this is a gap in the communication system and will work to make sure that the coaches are empowered and have the resources available to communicate with gymnasts and parents in something closer to real time--even if they cannot say much because they are awaiting further County guidance.  DPR will work with Carly and Maija on coordinating communication with DPR and DPR can share some communication templates. 
  • DPR has created a Safe Sport web page, including information for parents, coaches and athletes on the website.  DPR will communicate these resources to gymnastics families each fall at the beginning of the competitive season. DPR will increase SafeSport and "safety rules" signage around Barcroft 
  • All DPR staff will take Stewards of Children - Darkness to Light Training:  Stewards of Children® is an adult-focused prevention training program that centers on improving the awareness of the prevalence, consequences, and circumstances of child sexual abuse (CSA). The training aims to educate adults (primarily child care professionals) to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to CSA
  • DPR staff will take Mandated Reporting Training

COVID-19

  • We requested interim communications and updates regarding the program/facility closure.  As Aerials are year-round, we expressed a desire to make sure that the gymnasts have access to the facility as soon as it is deemed safe based on CDC and County/State guidelines, even if that  is before the regular class season begins (DPR noted that the closure date was pegged to the start of the recreation class session).
  • We expressed concern about whether coaches would continue to be paid during the shutdown.  DPR said they would, including those coaches who are classified as temporary. We would like to remain in touch on this issue, as if there are gaps this would be of concern, and are sure families would like to help. At this time, DPR assured us that parent involvement was not needed.

General

  • Since the gymnastics expansion and given that the gymnastics program is the predominant activity at Barcroft, DPR would like to work toward making it a true Gymnastics Center.  One suggestion made by DPR is to reconfigure the front desk area to make it more welcoming and open and geared toward gymnasts and families. 
  • DPR would like to work with Carly and Maija to review the class vs. team practice schedule to determine if any efficiencies could be gained by offering more classes on the weekend. 
  • AAPA and DPR agree that the current MOU should be updated and that is targeted for 2021.  We can begin to work on it now, knowing that it is a long process. 
  • DPR raised the on-going question about the best way to recognize team coaches.  The parents want to show appreciation, similar to how teachers receive class gifts. In the past (5+ years ago), AAPA presented all team coaches with gifts that were funded by the AAPA.  This ensured that all coaches received the exact same token of appreciation and also didn't add a situation where some parents wouldn't be able to contribute. The AAPA would like to examine and reconsider the gift policy as part of the updated MOU. 
  • DPR suggested that the county may be willing to host an End-of-Season Sports Banquet where coaches could be recognized.  This seems like a great idea and we are willing to help coordinate. High-schools have similar events that are pot-luck style and a lot of fun! ​

DPR/AAPA Communications

  • DPR and AAPA/ATPA agree that more and regular communications would be beneficial.  
  • AAPA offered to meet with DPR to walk through the structure of AAPA and how it works to support the program. 
  • Anthony will attend AAPA monthly meetings going forward. 
  • AAPA is in the process of developing the following policy documents and will share with DPR once reviewed and approved, including:  Choreography Policy, Financial Responsibility Summary (includes Apparel Policy), Travel Meet Policy.