Jackson Public Schools cancel fall sports

Jackson Public Schools has canceled all fall sports including football.

JPS Athletic Director Daryl Jones announced the decision Friday.

“I know how disappointing the cancellation of sports and extra-curricular activities may be for students, coaches and parents, but the school district must make decisions that make safety our top priority,” Jones said in a statement. “As we will not be able to host competitions with teams in a way that we can comply with the guidance from all levels of government and health officials, we must put safety first.”

JPS made the tough decision due to concerns about COVID-19. The district is one of the biggest in the state.

JPS is setting up different measures to help student-athletes who face their season being canceled.

• Conduct small group workout sessions emphasizing technique and skill development.
• Create highlight videos introducing senior scholar-athletes to college coaches.
• Conduct a winter football combine to showcase senior scholar-athletes.
• Provide a strength and conditioning advisor for all scholar athletes and cheerleaders.
• Provide small group tumbling, stunt and technical assistance for cheerleaders.
• Provide small group music lessons for band members.