Is Required Headgear The Right Move?

Earlier this year, Princeton School District began requiring sixth grade athletes playing soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey to wear protective headgear. The goal is for all athletes in sixth to twelfth grade to wear the headgear to help prevent head injuries.

As you can imagine, the move has sparked debate for a number of reasons. First, the headgear comes at a cost – up to $70 each. While the school district is covering the cost, such rules could be cost prohibitive to other areas.

More importantly, the effectiveness of such headgear to reduce the risk of concussions is unproven, according to multiple experts quoted in the article.

Do you think this initiative is the right one? Would you be happy if a similar policy made its way into your local school district?