Table of Contents

I. PHILOSOPHY/PURPOSE X. REPLACEMENTS

II. OBJECTIVES XI. MAINTAINING ELIGIBILITY A. Eligibility Concerning Credits III. DEFINITION 1. Conditions 2. Regaining Eligibility IV. TRYOUT ELIGIBILITY 3. Summer School A. Enrolment B. Eligibility Concerning Grades B. Academic Grades 1. Academic Requirements C. Conduct 2. Academic Suspension

V. COMMITMENT XII. GENERAL CONDUCT A. Statement Concerning Conduct VI. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY B. Statement Concerning Social Media C. Discipline VII. COST COVERED BY THE GISD 1. Suspension 2. Expulsion/Alternative Education Center VIII. STUDENT COST 3. Drugs, Alcohol, Tabaco and Illegal Activity 4. Removal/Resignment IX. SELECTION A. Basis XIII. RECOMMENDATIONS & GUIDELINES FOR B. Location CHEERLEADING SAFETY C. Tryouts 1. Packets XIV. CHEERING ACTIVITIES 2. Procedures A. Football D. Squad Makeup 1. All Squads E. Judging Criteria 2. Varsity Cheerleaders 1. Scoring Breakdown 3. Junior Varsity Cheerleaders 2. Minimum Scores 4. Freshman Cheerleaders F. Judges B. Volleyball 1. Number C. Basketball 2. Minority Judges D. Other Activities 3. Certification 4. Statement of Acquaintance XV. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES/BOOSTER CLUBS 5. Basis 6. In District Judges XVI. COMPETITION SQUADS G. Panel Tryouts H. Score Tabulation XVII. INCLIMENT WEATHER 1. Entry 2. Score Calculation XVIII. TRANSPORTATION 3. Minimum Requirements 4. Score Retention XIX. BOOSTER CLUBS 5. Statement of Finality 6. Ties XX. MONIES COLLECTED BY SPONSORS I. For Varsity Candidates Only 1. JV Deficiency 2. Stipulations Appendix 1 – Student Cost Estimate J. Exceptions Appendix 2 – GISD Centralized Tryouts 1. Ties Appendix 3 – GISD Cheer Judging Criteria 2. Injury Appendix 4 – Jump/Tumbling Scoring Criteria 3. Video Usage Guidelines Appendix 5 – Stipulations For Placing Varsity Candidates K. Notification on JV Squad L. Request for Scores Appendix 6 – GISD Deduction System 1. Candidate Request Appendix 7 – Safety 2. Parental Request 3. Conditions GISD HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADER CONSTITUTION AND PROCEDURES

I. PHILOSOPHY/PURPOSE IV. TRYOUT ELIGIBILITY

Being a cheerleader is an honor and special A. Enrollment privilege. Cheerleaders and spirit groups 1. A student is eligible to try out exist to promote good sportsmanship, good for cheerleader if either of the two citizenship, wholesome, and enthusiastic conditions is met: school spirit and are first and foremost a. At the time of the tryout, the representatives of their school. student is enrolled in the Garland Cheerleaders should exemplify both Independent School District and is individual and group behavior suitable to trying out at the school where the their position and in accordance with the student is registered to attend for the rules as stated in the GISD Student Code of next school year. Conduct. Members of these groups have a or fundamental responsibility to play a b. If the student is not currently leadership role in building teamwork and enrolled in the GISD, but is helping the school achieve its goals and registered to attend a GISD objectives. Because of these campus for the next school year, the responsibilities, members of the student may try out at that campus. cheerleading squad will be expected to 2. A student may try out at only maintain a higher standard of behavior both one GISD school. on and off campus and academic B. Academic Grades achievement than that of their peers. 1. Students must have passed all subjects the preceding grading II. OBJECTIVES period in order to participate in all of the out-of-school workshops and judging. Cheerleaders are expected to be physically 2. If a student failed one or more and mentally skilled in learning and course(s), he/she may try out for remembering cheers. They are also cheerleader. The tryout for a expected to be able to publicly demonstrate student who has failed a course is a skill level suitable for the team position limited to one day participation and the timing necessary for group before the judges. performance. Off the field, they are to 3. If a student is academically enthusiastically support all athletic teams ineligible for any two grading through advertisement, personal attitude, periods prior to cheerleading and attendance at events chosen by the tryouts, that student is not sponsor/coach and approved by the eligible for cheerleading tryouts principal. without joint - approval from both the principal and sponsor/coach. III. DEFINITION C. Conduct 1. Any student who has an Cheerleading year: The rules and excessive number of disciplinary procedures outlined in this constitution are referrals, has been placed in in- in effect from the time the student is building suspension, suspended selected to the cheerleading squad until the from school, or has been placed next tryout date. This does not include the in an Alternative Education academic guidelines. Because of TEA Center by any GISD campus rules, the academic policies are in effect for administrator will not be eligible a school year. to participate in tryouts without

Revised 2/2017 www.garlandisd.net/cheerleader GISD HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADER CONSTITUTION AND PROCEDURES

joint-approval from both the VII. COSTS COVERED BY GISD principal and sponsor/coach. 2. Areas to be reviewed will A. Uniforms include but not be limited to the The purchasing of new uniforms reasons for the referrals, is on a three-year rotation basis. academic grades, other discipline The uniform provided by the GISD records, student attitude, and any will include 1 skirt (female) or 1 other factors deemed relevant by pants (male), and 2 shells or the principal and sponsor/coach. sweaters per squad within the given budget year. V. COMMITMENT B. Campus Cheer Budget A minimum cheerleader supply Participation in the GISD cheerleading budget of $1,500 will be provided program carries both a significant time and by the principal. This budget will financial commitment. Each cheerleader is cover items such as paint, paper, expected to meet all financial tape, etc. responsibilities identified by their specific C. Letter Jackets campus. Dedication to, and the prioritization Letter jackets will only be of, cheerleading is obligatory from all provided to Varsity cheerleaders cheerleaders to meet the objectives of the who have not received a jacket in program. Candidates selected to be a another sport or in academics. member of the cheerleading squad are Orders for letter jackets must be expected to maintain their commitment to turned in to the Director of VAPA the activity for the full cheerleading year. prior to May 15 of each year by the Prior to making commitments to be involved Varsity sponsor/coach. in other school activities, cheerleaders should carefully consider specific program VIII. STUDENT COSTS requirements, as involvement in other activities may cause participation and time *See Appendix 1 conflicts with cheerleading duties. Any cheerleader who voluntarily quits the squad IX. SELECTION before the end of the cheerleading year without the approval of the principal and sponsor/coach will not be allowed to try out A. Basis for the next year on any GISD campus. The procedures for selection are based on the Board Policies of the Garland Independent School District VI. FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY and from the guidelines in this handbook. It is the responsibility of each cheerleader to B. Location meet all financial obligations. Every effort is * See Appendix 2 made to make all expenses minimal. A list 1. The Garland Independent of expenditures and their possible value is School District will hold a listed in the constitution. Failure to meet the centralized tryout for the selection stated financial obligations will result in a of the high school cheerleading principal review which may lead to removal squads. The goal of the from the squad. centralized tryout will be to provide a consistent, equitable and monitored tryout process for all high school cheerleader candidates across the district.

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The tryouts will be held on a from the Superintendent or VAPA Saturday in the Spring to be Department. determined by the principals and a. Tryouts cannot take place prior to the Department of Visual and the date stated in the Operational Performing Arts. The date will Information for the Campus not be during the week of the Implementation of the GISD State-mandated testing. Desegregation Plan handbook 2. The principal of the school published by the Division of hosting the tryouts will chair a Administration. committee composed of the b. High school cheerleaders shall be host school varsity cheerleader selected by a scoring method that sponsor/coach, and the following assigns a weight of 100% to the year varsity sponsor/coach ratings assigned by a panel of and a member of the VAPA certified judges. Students wishing to Department. The committee will try out for the cheerleading squad be responsible for facilitating must file an application and parent the tryouts. The host permission form with the team sponsor/coach and VAPA Director sponsor/coach by the first day of the of or their designee will be clinic before the clinic begins. present during the entire process. Schools may elect to set an earlier Building principals will be present date for turn in (ex. at the parent during the tryout for their school. meeting), but no student will be 3. Parents will not be allowed in penalized as long as the information the building during any phase of is turned in by the clinic date before the tryouts. the clinic begins. C. Tryouts c. There will be no application fees 1. Packets or tryout fees for students trying out Each sponsor/coach will be for cheerleader at the high school responsible for the preparation level. and distribution of a packet of e. Cheerleader candidates wanting information to be made available to participate in an optional to all candidates. This cheerleader workshop may be information will include specific charged a small fee, not to exceed tryout dates, times, attire, and $10.00, if the school chooses to host procedures. The building a pre-tryout workshop. principal and the VAPA f. Cheerleader candidates are Department must approve this required to submit the Pre- information prior to distribution. participation Medical Cheerleading packets from all Evaluation-Medical History form secondary campuses will be prior to tryouts. The form outlines in posted on the GISD cheerleader detail the questions which, if website. Candidates and parents answered yes, require the candidate must sign a form stating that they to show proof of a physical exam. understand and will comply with Once a candidate is selected as a all information in the packet member of the cheerleader squad, before the student is allowed to the cheerleader will be required to participate in the tryout process. complete the physical form. ALL 2. Procedures cheerleaders must complete this The following procedures are to form each year. Per UIL rules the be followed to the letter. Any physical must be dated after May 1. deviations require approval Most schools will offer low cost

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physicals through the athletic members. All candidates must department during the month of meet the minimum scoring May. requirements in order to be g. If a candidate is academically placed on a squad. ineligible or does not attend the 4. In the event that there are not clinic for any reason, it is the enough candidates who earn the responsibility of that candidate to minimum score, the squad make arrangements with the makeup may be smaller than sponsor/coach or principal to receive indicated above. a tryout number. 5. Combining squads for various h. Each campus sponsor/coach and purposes is at the discretion of principal will establish a uniform each campus. tryout outfit. Every item of clothing 6. Candidates that make the should be carefully considered to minimum score, but are not in the insure equity, affordability, and top V.16/JV.12/F.12, may not be safety for the students during the placed on an inappropriate grade tryout procedure. This uniform level squad for any reason. should be limited to plain white polo- 7. Exception see JV Deficiency style shirt with no visible logo, a solid IX.I.1. colored short (style to be determined E. Judging Criteria by the sponsor/coach), and any type * See the Appendix 3 of white athletic shoe. Hair should be 1. Scoring Breakdown up and/or out of the candidate’s Entrance face. Schools will not allow any Presence/Poise (5) accessory or addition (rings, Tumbling during run-in (10) bracelets, hair bows, ribbons etc.) to Spirit/Enthusiasm (5) the tryout outfit. Jumps i. Mats will be available in all tryout Toe Touch (10) gyms. It is each candidate’s choice Right Hurdler (5) to use or not use the mats. Certified Left Hurdler (5) judges will be instructed to score Optional Jump (5) each candidate on the difficulty *See Appendix 4 and execution of the candidate’s Cheer tumbling skills. Motion Technique (10) j. Any student who arrives at the Voice/Projection (5) tryout site after the tryouts for that Incorporation (5) campus have started will not be Chant (5) allowed to try out Motion Technique (10) D. Squad Makeup Timing (5) 1. The varsity squad will be made Projection (5) up of 16 cheerleaders. They will Dance be the top scoring four Motion Technique (10) seniors, the top scoring four Timing (5) juniors, and the eight highest scoring candidates of the 2. Minimum Scores remaining juniors and seniors. Each candidate must score a 2. The junior varsity squad will minimum percentage of points in have 12 cheerleaders. It will be order to be placed on a open to sophomores only. cheerleading squad. 3. The freshmen squad will consist of 12 incoming freshmen 7th grade – 30%

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8th grade – 35% or existing cheerleaders in the tryout Freshmen – 40% room/area, nor will they be involved Junior Varsity – 45% in the collection or tabulation of Varsity – 50% scores. Any deviation by the candidates from the tryout requirements may result in the F. Judges disqualification of the candidate. 1. Number H. Score Tabulation There will be five judges on each 1. Entry panel. Each of the five judges will enter 2. Minority Judges each candidates’ scores Every attempt should be made electronically. At the conclusion and documented to secure a of the tryouts, a technical minority judge on each panel. assistant will download all of the 3. Certification judges’ individual score sheets Judges will be officially certified into a master database. It will be by the USASF, NCA, UCA or ACA. the responsibility of the building 4. Statement of Acquaintance principal or his/her designee to Judges should not be hired to bring the student names and judge tryouts if they have tutored numbers to the tryout site. or taught the cheerleader Candidates will then be ranked candidates during the current from high to low and the school year. Every attempt should appropriate number selected for be made to hire judges who each squad. The District-wide have not worked with students in formula for tabulating final scores the GISD area. However, with should be as follows: the hundreds of camps in the a. Each judge may award up to 100 state of Texas, attended by points total per candidate thousands of cheerleaders and b. The high and low judges’ scores taught by hundreds of instructors, will be dropped it may be possible at some time c. The remaining three scores will be that a member of the judging averaged together to get the judges’ panel may have had some contact average score. with a candidate who is trying out. d. This number will count 100%. 5. Basis 2. Score Calculation Judges will be instructed to judge Scores will be calculated to two the candidates based only on the decimal points. mastery of the skills that they see 3. Minimum Requirements demonstrated during the tryouts. Each candidate must score the 6. In District Judges minimum percentage of points for GISD Cheerleader/Drill Team their squad in order to be placed sponsors/coaches may not serve on a cheerleading squad. as a judge for GISD cheerleader * See section VII.E.2. tryouts. 4. Score Retention G. Panel Tryouts Scores will be left in the office of Panel tryouts will be closed to the principal until winners and everyone except judges, principals, non-winners are notified. and principals' designees. Original scoring sheets will be Sponsors/coaches will not be retained for 30 days following the present in the tryout room/area. tryout date. There will be no students, parents, 5. Statement of Finality

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Scores given to a student by an an injury that impairs a student from individual judge will not be participating in a “specific skill” of the changed by a sponsor/coach, tryout. If a video is used, only a principal, or the VAPA small segment of the video that Department. Complaints about shows the “specific skill” done by the any aspect of the tryout process student prior to the tryout may be are subject to the requirements of judged. GISD Board Policy FNG (LOCAL), c. A medical doctor's note Copies of such policy may be indicating the specific skill the obtained from the school student is incapable of principal. performing will be required prior to 6. Ties video use. In the case of a tie, see section 3. Video Usage Guidelines VII.J. a. The judges shall be instructed to I. For Varsity Candidates Only consider "absence of pressure," lack 1. JV Deficiency of physical/respiratory exertion, In the event that there are fewer vocal ability, and note if a than 12 candidates trying out for cheerleader is using a hard or Junior Varsity cheerleader, the spring floor when performing campus administrator will have specific skills" on video. the option of offering the available b. The candidate must perform each positions on the JV squad to the individual “specific skill” required in Varsity candidates who were not the tryout to receive credit/points. selected to the Varsity squad. c. No score reduction or credit shall 2. Stipulations. be exercised due to the claimed a. The Varsity candidates must have injury. However, in light of the scored the JV minimum score of at above considerations, a perfect least 45%. score for any “specific skill” or b. Varsity candidates and their category should be rare. parents must sign a letter of d. Sponsor/coaches will make these intention to be considered guidelines available to judges if a for this option BEFORE the day of video is used for tryout. tryouts. K. Notification *See Appendix 5 After all tryout scores for a school J. Exceptions are tabulated and confirmed by the 1. Ties principal and sponsor/coach, each a. In the case of a tie, both students candidate will be given an shall be selected. envelope with instructions to b. The VAPA Department must candidates on how to find out the be notified prior to the results of the tryouts. No results will announcement of winners when a tie be distributed at the tryout site. is involved. Final results for each school will be 2. Injury published on the GISD internet a. In the case of physical injury prior website. Candidates will be given to the tryout, the VAPA the website address at the Department must be notified for conclusion of the tryouts. Other permission to have any deviations in acceptable forms of notification the tryout procedure. include the use of a call-out/call-in b. A video can only be used after system and/or posting the results at notification of the VAPA the school. This list should be in Department, and only in the case of

Revised 2/2017 www.garlandisd.net/cheerleader GISD HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADER CONSTITUTION AND PROCEDURES

alphabetical order with no indication X. REPLACEMENTS of ranking. If a member of the cheerleading squad moves (or there is an opening for any reason), the principal and sponsor/coach L. Request for Scores may fill the opening based on the tryout 1. Candidate Request rank scores. Any replacement will take Any candidates wishing to receive place on or before the first day of the first their scores quickly should school term and is at the principal's and provide a stamped, self- sponsor/coach's discretion. addressed envelope to the sponsor/coach prior to the XI. MAINTAINING ELIGIBILITY tryouts. Individual score sheets will be mailed no later than the Monday following tryouts. Other A. Eligibility Concerning Credits requests for scores can be made 1. Conditions through the school principal. To be eligible at the beginning of 2. Parental Request the school year students must Parents may request to see their have earned the accumulated own child's score (no rank number of credits in state scores) from the principal or approved courses indicated his/her designee. By law, all other below: student scores are protected and a. Beginning of the tenth grade year cannot be shared with anyone - at least 6 units toward graduation. except the sponsor/coach, b. Beginning of the eleventh grade principal, or principal designee. year - at least 12 units toward 3. Conditions graduation or a total of 5 units that Principals or sponsors/coaches count toward graduation that have may release the composite been earned during the 12 months scores/tally sheet of all students preceding the first day of the current to any parent under the following school year. conditions: c. Beginning of the twelfth grade a. No names or identifying numbers year - at least 18 units toward that would indicate the tryout order graduation or a total of or results of individual students will 5 units current school year. be released. 2. Regaining Eligibility Lost due to b. No judge’s names or identifying Credits numbers that would indicate which A student who lacks the judge gave which score will be prescribed number of units shall released. remain ineligible for all c. The cut off number may be extracurricular competition or released. performance for the first grading d. The final tally sheet may be period of the fall term. If at that released as long as they cannot time the student has passed all identify individual students or tryout classes for the grading period, the order cannot be identified. student becomes eligible. e. The original judge's score sheets 3. Summer School Students may will not be released to parents or apply credits completed in students. summer school or by correspondence toward eligibility requirements.

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d. If an average of below 70 exists for two (2) grading periods in the same course or in different courses during the school year, the student will be removed from the B. Eligibility Concerning Grades cheerleading squad for the balance 1. Academic Requirement of the school year. This will not In order to be eligible for any include the courses designated in grading period following the initial board policy as exempt from the grading period of a school year, ineligibility rule. a student shall not have a recorded grade average lower XII. GENERAL CONDUCT RULES than 70, on a scale of 0-100, in any course for the preceding * See Appendix 6 grading period. 2. Academic Suspension A. Statement Concerning Conduct A student whose recorded Cheerleaders are expected to grading period average in any behave in a manner that is course is lower than a 70 at the becoming to the individual, as well end of a grading period will be as to the organization they placed on Academic Probation represent. They should be aware and suspended from competition that in or out of uniform they are or performance. A suspension representatives of the cheerleading continues for at least three weeks squad and the high school they and is not removed during the attend and should act accordingly. school year until the student is Proper manners should be used at passing all subjects taken. This all times to address adults. Mutual suspension shall become respect and politeness toward effective seven calendar days members within the squad are basic after the last day of the period elements that contribute to the total during which the grade lower than success of the squad. 70 was earned. B. Statement Concerning Social Media a. Refer to Local FM policy for list of Maintaining a higher standard of courses that are exempt from this conduct will also include ensuring policy. that cheerleaders’ maintain an b. A student who regains eligibility at appropriate online presence. The the end of a grading period or three- internet is a worldwide, publicly week grading period shall not accessible form of communication. become eligible until the end of the Any social media content appearing school day seven calendar on the internet is public domain, days later. even if it is marked private. c. Students on academic probation Cheerleaders are responsible for must continue to attend classes and their personal websites social all practices, must sit out of all media accounts and postings as well performances, and may not sit with as for postings on other students’ or ride with the team to social media accounts. The area of appearances or performances. appropriateness will include, but are Ineligible students are not allowed to not limited to, language (abbreviated wear the cheerleading uniform. This or alluding to), pictures, suggestive state policy does not apply to social poses, clothing, reference to alcohol, activities.

Revised 2/2017 www.garlandisd.net/cheerleader GISD HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADER CONSTITUTION AND PROCEDURES

drugs, and tobacco. Any question of Any member failing to abide by appropriateness will be decided by published school rules relating to the principal and sponsor/coach. conduct, possession and/or use of drugs, alcoholic beverages, or other illegal C. Discipline activities will be subject to review Any cheerleader removed from by the sponsor/coach and his/her squad for disciplinary principal. Dismissal from the reasons during the current group may result from that cheerleading year on any GISD review. campus will not be eligible to The possession and/or use of participate in the next tryouts without alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs or joint approval from both the principal other illegal activities are and sponsor/coach. Areas to be expressly forbidden and will not reviewed will include but not be be tolerated. Any infraction, on or limited to a review of the reason(s) off campus, will result in a for removal and student records principal/director/parent/student since removal (academic grades, review. Dismissal from the team discipline records, attitude, etc.) may result from this review. 1. Suspension A second infraction will result in Students given in or out of school the immediate dismissal from the suspension may not perform, cheerleading squad. wear the cheerleader uniform, 4. Removal/Resignment or practice with the squad while in Any student removed from the the Reassignment Room or while cheerleading squad must also be suspended plus one calendar removed from the class. school day. Students who have been Anyone given in or out of school removed and those who suspension for any reason will be voluntarily quit retain no rights to subject to the following team awards, recognitions, etc., actions: which are received after a. First Offense - Benched for next dismissal, although they may event, Principal/Sponsor/coach have accrued over the duration of Review, placed on the school term. They lose all probation for duration of school year. privileges associated with b. Second Offense - Removal from cheerleading membership, squad. including attending cheerleading 2. Expulsion/Alternative only events, using cheerleading Education Center facilities, and wearing cheerleader Any member who is expelled from attire. school will be removed from the cheerleading squad for the XIII. RECOMMENDATIONS & remainder of the school year. GUIDELINES FOR CHEERLEADING Any member placed in the SAFETY Alternative Education Program

will be removed from the *See Appendix 7 cheerleading squad for the

remainder of the school year.

3. Drugs, Alcohol, Tabaco and

Illegal Activity

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c. Playoff games should be covered. 2.Varsity Cheerleaders a. All VR boys and girls district games should be covered. b. If VR CL are at VR boys game, then JV or FR CL should cover the XIV. CHEERING ACTIVITIES VR girls game and vice versa. c. JV Cheerleaders JV will cover High school cheerleading squads are only Girls’/Boys’ Varsity district games. permitted to cheer at two sporting events d. When not cheering at a VR game, per school week. This does not include pep they will cheer the JV game at rallies, assemblies, etc., held during the Sponsor/coach's discretion. school day. Friday night and weekend 3. Freshmen Cheerleaders performances do not count in the two a. Freshmen will cover Girls'/Boys' activities per week. Varsity district games. A. FOOTBALL b. When not cheering at a Varsity 1. Varsity Cheerleaders Game, they will cheer the Freshmen a. CL will cheer at all varsity games. game at Sponsor/coach's discretion. b. Busses are available for all Varsity games. D. OTHER ACTIVITIES 2. JV and Freshmen Cheerleaders All Squads a. CL will cheer at all JV/Freshmen It is the sponsor/coach’s discretion games. You may choose to cheer A as to what other activities the or B team. cheerleaders will cheer. b. Busses will only take you to out of You are required to attend each of Garland/Rowlett/Sachse games. these events. 3. Playoff Games a. Playoff games will be covered by XV. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES/BOOSTER the Varsity Cheerleaders. CLUBS b. If JV and FR squads attend varsity playoff games, they must ride These activities are at the discretion of the with the VR squads. principal and coaches. Thus, a dollar sign B. VOLLEYBALL cannot be assigned to this category. 1. VR, JV and FR squads will split their individual squads to cover XVI. COMPETITION SQUADS district HOME varsity volleyball games. Competition Squads are neither encouraged 2. JV and Freshmen will select nor discouraged, but this activity should not JV/Freshmen games to cheer at interfere with the regularly scheduled during the volleyball season when activities of the cheerleaders. Competitions not cheering Varsity. events, including UIL Spirit, are beyond the 3. Playoff games should be realm of the standard Cheer requirements. covered. Whether to have a squad that enters C. BASKETBALL competition is a decision to be made by the 1. All Squads DISTRICT GAMES campus principal and sponsor/coach. The ONLY makeup of an individual campus’ a. No out of town games on Monday competition squad will be left to the cheer through Thursday nights. coaches and the approval of the campus b. No cheering during the holiday administration. Competition squads may break. consist of any combination of the Varsity, JV

Revised 2/2017 www.garlandisd.net/cheerleader GISD HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADER CONSTITUTION AND PROCEDURES

and Freshman squads and may include F. Cheerleaders shall not be required to members that are not part of the schools raise money if a parent prefers to pay the official cheer squads. students' cost.

XVII. INCLEMENT WEATHER XX. MONIES COLLECTED BY SPONSORS/COACHES In the event of inclement weather, it will be the responsibility of the cheerleader A. Cheerleader sponsors/coaches sponsor/coach, in collaboration with the collecting monies from students will give building principal, to make the decision to receipts to students stating the amount leave the event. The decision will be based of monies collected and what the money on what is in the best interests of the is to be charged toward (trip, uniform, students and their health and welfare. If a spring show, banquet, etc.). parent or student voluntarily leaves a B. Sponsors/coaches WILL keep a cheerleading event, they will be subject to detailed accounting of income and the penalties as outlined in the cheerleading expenditures of students' monies and constitution. make it available to parents upon request. XVIII. TRANSPORTATION

CL squads attending games in the city of Garland/Rowlett/Sachse may furnish their own transportation with sponsor/coach and principal approval. All games out of the city of Garland/Rowlett/Sachse will require bus transportation.

XIX. BOOSTER CLUBS

A. Booster clubs are optional, but may be allowed at the discretion of the principal and sponsor/coach. B. Booster clubs are formed by school patrons to help enrich an organization's participation in extracurricular activities. This should be their primary focus. C. Fund raising activities should support the educational goals of the school and cheerleading squad, but they should not exploit students. D. Booster clubs should have a board of directors made up of at least a President, Vice-President and Treasurer. There should be at least two signatories on booster club checks. A detailed list of income and expenditures should be published by the Treasurer for the membership on a monthly basis. E. Cheerleaders shall not be required to pay dues to a booster club.

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Student Individual Cost Estimate

A. TRYOUT/APPLICATION FEE There will be no tryout/application fee. B. SUMMER CAMP 1. Camp Fee $300-350 2. Transportation $50-75 3. Camp Wear $200-250 TOTAL FOR CAMP COSTS (ESTIMATE) $550-675 C. UNIFORM 1. Uniform Cleaning $30-50 2. Shoes $75-100 3. Socks $8-10 4. Sweatsuit $175-225 5. Sweatshirt $30-50 6. Briefs $20-25 7. Hair Bows $10-20 8. Shirt for Game Days $30-45 TOTAL FOR UNIFORM COSTS (ESTIMATE) $378-525

D. PROPS 1. Poms $20-25 2. Bag $50-60 3. Megaphone $60-80 TOTAL FOR PROPS (ESTIMATE) $130-165

F. TOTAL FOR ABOVE ITEMS (IF ALL PURCHASED) $1058-1365

GISD High School Cheerleader Constitution And Procedures Appendix 2

Centralized High School Cheerleader

Tryouts

GISD Centralized High School Cheerleader Tryouts

The goal of the centralized tryout will be to provide a consistent, equitable and monitored tryout process for all high school cheerleader candidates across the district.

The tryouts will be held on a Saturday in the Spring to be selected by the principals and Director of Fine Arts. If possible, this date should be determined in May of the previous school year and should not be during the week of six weeks and/or State-mandated testing. SAT testing dates should also be avoided. This date will be published in the GISD calendar that is prepared by the Communications Department. The principals will make certain that it is published on each campus calendar and every attempt should be made to avoid scheduling proms and other activities that may cause conflicts on this date. (If a choir director chooses to plan a spring trip on this weekend, he/she must understand that there may be students who will be unable to attend.)

School Warm-up Tryout School 1 7:30 – 8:00. 8:00 – 9:30 School 2 9:00 – 9:30 9:30 – 11:00 School 3 10:30 – 11:00. 11:00 – 12:30 School 4 12:30 – 1:00 1:00 – 2:30 School 5 2:00– 2:30 2:30 – 4:00 School 6 3:30 – 4:00 4:00 – 5:30 School 7 5:00 – 5:30 5:30 – 7:00

**The school in the last time slot (7) will serve as HOST for the tryouts.

Note: Due to the fact that Garland High School is the only facility with three separate gymnasiums, the tryouts will be held at this location each year.

The principal of the school hosting the tryouts will chair a committee composed of the Director of Fine Arts, the host school varsity cheerleader sponsor, and the following year varsity sponsor. The committee will be responsible for facilitating the tryouts. The host sponsor and Director of Fine Arts will be present during the entire process.

Tryout Coordinator responsibilities Work with the GHS sponsor to secure: • the three gymnasiums. (Any windows that could provide a line of sight from outside should be covered with paper.) cafeteria for warm-up. • a hospitality room for the judges. GISD High School Cheerleader Constitution And Procedures Appendix 2

• a waiting area for the sponsors. • a secured area with a Windows computer loaded with Excel for tabulation of the scores. • Submit to the Director of Fine Arts a list of judges (UCA/NCA/UCA). Five judges will be hired for each gym as well as an alternate. (Total of 16 judges) Every attempt should be made to insure minority representation on each panel. The alternate judge should be a minority if possible. Sponsor will make certain to document steps taken to secure minority judges. The Director of Fine Arts will hire the final list of judges. • Secure the services of an athletic trainer or school nurse. This person can be on-call or on site. If they are on site all day, they will be paid by the Director of Fine Arts. • Make sure that there will be mats available in each gym. If GHS does not have enough mats, you will need to put in a work order to have them delivered.

Host sponsor responsibilities • Provide breakfast, lunch and snacks for the judges. • Cover windows of areas that can be seen from outside. • Secure a sound system for each of the gyms as well as a backup system. (You are not expected to buy new sound equipment. Make arrangements to borrow from other campuses.) • Hire one security guard.

During each school’s tryout: • The principal or designee will be in the tabulation room to oversee the tryout process and the entry of the scores into the computer. • The principal or designee will provide three other administrators to be in each gymnasium to oversee the judging. Another faculty member may be used to run the music and facilitate the tryout process. This person should not be a cheerleader sponsor. • Sponsors will have a designated waiting area, but should not be in the gymnasium. • The Director of Fine Arts or his designee will oversee the entire process.

Parents will not be allowed in the building during any phase of the tryouts.

When a school is ready to tryout, the host sponsor will notify the candidates in the warm-up area. A graduating senior cheerleader may escort the candidates to the appropriate gym for the tryouts. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE WILL THE SENIOR CHEERLEADER GO INTO THE GYMNASIUM. Sponsors will wait in the designated waiting area. Senior cheerleaders are not allowed in the tryout area or the tabulation room.

Tabulation of the scores Each of the five judges will enter each candidates’ scores into an Excel spreadsheet. At the conclusion of the tryouts, a technical assistant will download all of the judges’ individual score sheets into a master database. It will be the responsibility of the building principal or his/her designee to bring the student names and numbers to the tryout site. Candidates will then be ranked from high to low and the appropriate number selected for each squad. The District-wide formula for tabulating final scores should be as follows: Each judge may award up to 100 points total per candidate. The high and low judges’ scores will be dropped GISD High School Cheerleader Constitution And Procedures Appendix 2

and the remaining three scores will be averaged together to get the judges’ average score. This number will count 100%.

Scores will be calculated to two decimal points.

After the final tryout of the day, judges will be asked to stay on site until after computations are completed.

All scores will be calculated to two decimal points. There will be no callbacks. In case of a tie, both candidates will be selected as stated in the cheerleading constitution.

Notification After all tryout for a school are tabulated and confirmed by the principal and sponsor, each candidate will be given an envelope with instructions for how candidates can find out the results of the tryouts. NO RESULTS WILL BE DISTRIBUTED AT THE TRYOUT SITE.

Acceptable notification options: Candidates will be given an envelope with a telephone number to call to receive a recorded message listed the cheerleading squad. For those schools with a telephone system that allows parent to call in and access information, it is recommended that this system be used. By withholding the box number until the day of tryouts, this will prevent other students from jamming the lines trying to call in.

Those schools with an outcall system may choose to use this. Each candidate will be given a card at the conclusion for tryouts giving the times that the outcall will be made.

Final results for each school will be published on the GISD Internet Website. Candidates will be given the website address at the conclusion of the tryouts.

Requests for scores Requests for scores will be honored as outlined in the cheerleading constitution. Those candidates wishing to receive their scores quickly should provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the sponsor prior to the tryouts. Individual score sheets will be mailed no later than Monday. Other requests for scores can be made through the school principal.

Timeline May - Principals will set tryout date for the next school year.

January - Meeting of host principal, sponsor, and Director of Fine Arts to discuss tryout procedures.

February - Meeting of all sponsors and a principal from each campus at the tryout site (GHS) to discuss tryout procedures.

February - Sponsors can begin preparing tryout packets according to the GISD tryout guidelines. All packets must be approved by the Director of Fine Arts.

March/April - Clinics conducted on each campus.

GISD High School Cheerleader Constitution And Procedures Appendix 2

March/April - Centralized tryout.

May - Follow-up meeting with Director of Fine Arts and sponsors to discuss tryouts and make recommendations for revisions. Schedule for Hosting Centralized Tryouts 1999-2000 Naaman Forest 2000-2001 South Garland 2001-2002 Rowlett High School 2002-2003 North Garland 2003-2004 Garland High 2004-2005 Lakeview Centennial 2005-2006 Sachse High 2006-2007 Naaman Forest 2007-2008 South Garland 2008-2009 Rowlett High 2009-2010 North Garland 2010-2011 Garland High 2011-2012 Lakeview Centennial 2012-2013 Sachse High 2013-2014 Naaman Forest 2014-2015 South Garland 2015-2016 Rowlett High 2016-2017 North Garland 2017-2018 Garland High 2018-2019 Lakeview Centennial 2019-2020 Sachse High 2020-2021 Naaman Forest 2021-2022 South Garland 2022-2023 Rowlett High

GISD High School Cheerleader Constitution & Procedures Appendix 3

Cheerleader Tryout Scoring Criteria

ENTRANCE JUMPS CHEER CHANT DANCE Presence/ Tumbling Spirit/ Optional Motion Voice. Motion Motion Toe Touch Left Hurdler Right Hurdler Incorporation Timing Projection Timing Poise (During Run-in) Enthusiasm Jump Technique Projection Technique Technique 5 10 5 10 5 5 5 10 5 5 10 5 5 10 5 Presence/Poise Toe Touch Motion Technique Motion Technique Motion Technique *Start at 5 points and for 1-3 Motion levels off, 1-3 Motion levels off, 1-3 Motion levels each item missing or lacking, Left Hurdler lacking in lacking in sharpness, off, lacking in knock down a point sharpness, missed missed motions sharpness,  Shirt tucked in Right Hurdler motions 4-7 Average motion levels, missing motions  Shoes tied 4-7 Average motion needing more sharpness  Proper Grooming levels, needing (placing motions) 4-7 Average Optional Jump  Hair pulled out of face more sharpness 8 - 10 Good motion levels, motion  Energetic/upright walk *The Optional Jump may be any jump (placing motions) sharp levels,  Positive Posture that the tryout candidate chooses to 8-10 Good motion needing execute levels, sharp Timing more Tumbling 1-2 Timing off throughout sharpness *Refer to the GISD **Refer to the GISD Jump/Tumbling Voice Projection (unable to pick up or threw off (placing motions) rest of group) Jump/Tumbling Scoring Scoring Criteria 1 Soft 8-10 Good motion 3 Ok timing levels, sharp, Criteria 2 Speaking words (able to pick up) popping 3 Saying words loud 4-5 Good timing with group dance, Spirit/Enthusiasm 4 Yelling words but lacks exhibits 1-3 No energy/No tone changes Voice Projection individuality Smile/No spirit /enthusiasm 1 Soft 3-5 Energetic/Smiling/ 5 YELLING words with 2 Speaking words Timing Loud Spiriting tone changes

/enthusiasm 3 Saying words loud 1-2 Timing off 4 Yelling words but lacks tone throughout (unable to pick Incorporation changes (levels)/enthusiasm up or threw off *Refer to the GISD rest of group) 5 YELLING words with tone Jump/Tumbling Scoring 3 Ok timing changes (able to pick up) Criteria (levels)/enthusiasm 4-5 Good timing with group

GISD High School Cheerleader Constitution & Procedures Appendix 4

Cheerleader Jump/Tumbling Scoring Criteria

Tumbling Jumps Incorporation *If a skill is not executed properly, then points may be deducted into a lower scale 1-3 Below level jumps 1 Double toe Running Standing connected (no whip) 2 Double toe whipped 0 None 0 None 3 Toe BHS 1 Cartwheel 1-2 Back/Front 4 Toe Back 1-2 Round off Walkover or 5 Toe BHS Back or 3-4 Round off Cartwheel or better Aerial BHS 3-4 BHS 5 Round off 2 5-6 BHS x 2 BHS 4-6 Level jumps 6 Series (3 or 7-8 Standing more BHS) Back 7 Round off 8-9 BHS Back BHS Back 10 Standing Full 7-10 Above level jumps 8 Series to back 9 Layout or whip to back 10 Full or specialty full

*BHS = Back Hand Spring *Jump scoring can drop to the point category below if feet are flexed, if knees are bent or if landings are with feet apart. GISD Cheerleader Constitution & Procedures Appendix 5

Placing Varsity Cheer Candidates on JV Squads

In order to give more students an opportunity to participate in the GISD Cheerleading Program, the following revision to the tryout process has been implemented:

In the event that there are fewer than 10 candidates trying out for Junior Varsity cheerleader, the campus administrator will have the option of offering the available positions on the JV squad to the Varsity candidates who were not selected to the Varsity squad with the following stipulations: • The Varsity candidates must have scored the JV minimum score of at least 45%. • Varsity candidates and their parents must sign a letter of intention to be considered for this option BEFORE the day of tryouts. (A district form will be developed for this purpose.)

Questions and Answers

Question 1: There are 19 candidates trying out for Varsity cheerleader and 15 candidates trying out for Junior Varsity cheerleader. Only 10 Junior Varsity candidates make the minimum score which means that 5 candidates did not make the squad and there are 2 openings on the JV squad. The 17th and 18th Varsity candidates have both scored the 45% required score. Can they have the option of taking the 2 JV open spots? Answer: No! Junior Varsity spots can only be filled if there are fewer than 12 candidates who actually tryout.

Question 2: There are only 14 candidates trying out for the 16 Varsity spots and there are 14 Junior Varsity candidates. All of the JV candidates have scored the minimum required score. Can the 2 JV candidates be offered the 2 Varsity spots? Answer: No. Movement can only take place from Varsity to vacant Junior Varsity spots. No other options will be offered.

Question 3: There are 19 candidates trying out for the Varsity spots. None of these candidates have signed the required document indicating they are interested in taking a JV spot if available. On Monday morning, the Varsity candidate who came in 19th place comes into the office and announces that she would like to be placed on the JV squad. Can this be allowed? Answer: No. The request to be considered for a JV spot must be declared BEFORE the tryout date.

Question 4: There are 19 Varsity candidates trying out and all of them have completed the necessary paperwork to be considered for a place on the JV squad. There are only 11 candidates trying out for the JV squad which leaves one open spot. When the scores are tabulated, the Varsity candidates who placed 17th and 18th have a tied score. Which candidate gets the JV spot? Answer: Just as in the regular tryout process, in the event of a tie, both candidates are selected. Therefore, in this scenario, both Varsity candidates would be placed on the JV squad which would mean that the JV squad now has 13 members. GISD Cheerleader Constitution & Procedures Appendix 5

Question 5: There are 17 Varsity candidates trying out. All 17 have completed the paperwork to be considered for the JV spot and all 17 have earned the minimum score of 45%. There are 12 Junior Varsity candidates trying out and all 12 candidates make the squad. During the summer, one of the JV candidates moves to Oklahoma. Can the campus administrator offer the 17th Varsity candidate the open position on the JV squad? Answer: In this case, the same replacement policy that is currently in place in the Constitution would be applied: If a member of the cheerleading squad moves (or there is an opening for any reason), the principal and sponsor may fill the opening based on the tryout rank scores. Any replacement will take place on or before the first day of the first school term and is at the principal's and sponsor's discretion.

Question 6: A parent complains that the Varsity and Junior Varsity candidates were not judged by the same panel. They are concerned that movement is taking place between the squads that were judged by different panels. Answer: The GISD cheerleading squads are all judged on the same criteria by highly qualified judges. Since no Junior Varsity candidate is being displaced or replaced by a Varsity member, this is a non-issue.

Any varsity cheerleading candidate who would be interested in taking a JV spot should the circumstance arise must turn in the form below with both signature by the end of the school day on the Friday before tryouts on Saturday. There will be NO exceptions to this deadline.

GISD Cheerleader Constitution & Procedures Appendix 5

GARLAND INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT CHEERLEADING PROGRAM APPLICATION FOR AVAILABLE JV CHEER POSITIONS

VARSITY CANDIDATES ONLY!

This document must be signed returned to the cheerleader sponsor no later than the end of the school day on the Friday before Saturday cheerleader tryouts. NO EXCEPTIONS! Student's Name______

GISD Campus______

The candidate and parents/guardian have read and understand the procedures and guidelines for a Varsity candidate being placed in a Junior Varsity spot.

In the event that fewer than 12 candidates tryout for the JV cheerleading squad… _____

I would like to apply for an available JV cheer position.

_____ I do not want to apply for an available JV cheer position.

*All candidates applying for available positions must score at least 45%.

*All GISD cheerleader constitution rules apply.

Signature of Student______Date______

Signature of Parent/Guardian______Date______

High School Cheerleader Deduction System

Uniform Guidelines Games/Pep-Rallies/All Cheerleader Activities 1. CL will not wear uniform to a non-CL function. Benched 1 or 1. CL must be in correct/complete uniform at school on 3 pt. deduction (Eating after a game may be approved by the more games or game/pep-rally days. Only letter jackets/designated sponsor as an exception to this guideline.) dismissed from sweats/sweater may be worn with uniform or spirit the squad. attire. 2. CL will not lend out uniforms, sweats, letter jacket, 5 pt. deduction 2. Hair will be up and secure as per sponsor. 2 pt. deduction etc. to someone who is not a cheerleader. 3. No jewelry during performances games or pep-rallies. 2 pt. deduction 3. Uniforms may be altered, but no fabric may be cut Replacement of 4. No chewing gum. 2 pt. deduction without prior approval from sponsor. uniform 5. No cursing/arguing. 5 pt. deduction 4. CL are responsible for damage to or loss of any part Replacement of 6. No colored nail polish. (clear only) 3 pt. deduction of a uniform. uniform or 7. CL will have required items upon arrival. 2 pt. deduction repair cost 8. CL will maintain proper sideline behavior at all times. 2 pt. deduction  No excessive talking among CL.  No talking to people in the crowd. Practice  Pay attention to the game/pep-rally. 1. Cheerleaders (CL) must wear appropriate workout 2 pt. deduction  Stand in correct formation/stance. clothing when practice begins. (For each violation)  Cheer/spirit, jump and tumble the entire game or 2. Hair must be up and secure. 2 pt. deduction pep-rally. 3. No jewelry during practices. 2 pt. deduction  Only one person out of formation at a time for 4. No chewing gum. 2 pt. deduction drinks. 5. No cursing/arguing with anyone. 5 pt. deduction  No taunting the other team.  6. CL will have required items (forms, signs, etc.) at 2 pt. deduction CL will show respect during the National Anthem and both school songs. the beginning of practice. 9. All CL will stay to clean up after each game/pep-rally 2 pt. deduction. 7. CL must be on time to all in/out of school practice. 2 pt. deduction and will be dismissed by the sponsor. 8. CL will not leave practice or the practice area 2 pt. deduction 10. CL will arrive on time in correct uniform at the 5 pt. deduction without permission. designated meeting area and will remain for the 9. CL will attend all in/out of school practices. Any Excused w/o prior duration of the game/pep-rally. notice will be absence must be cleared by the sponsor prior to If a CL misses the bus he/she will not be allowed cheer the practice. benched ½ game. Exception: death at the game. Excused: personal illness, death in family, illness in in the family. 11. CL will be back on the field/court ready to cheer 1 Benched 3rd Qtr. family that requires out-of-town travel, funeral, Unexcused: minute before halftime ends. mandatory court appearance, and religious Benched holidays. 1 game 12. CL will stay on the field/court for the entire game/pep- 3 pt. deduction Unexcused: Work/vacation, appointments, non- rally. UIL involvement (All-Stars, etc.) 13. CL will attend all in/out of school games, pep rallies, Excused w/o 10. CL cannot miss the last practice before a game. Benched 1 game meetings, functions and activities. Any absence must prior notice will be cleared by the sponsor prior to practice. Excused: be ½ game/pep- 11. CL will attend all summer practices. Benched ½ game rally. Illness/doctor permit, death in family. per miss Exception: Death Unexcused: Work/vacation, appointments non-UIL 12. CL will follow practice rules # 1-10 for summer 5 pt. deduction in the family. involvement (AllStars, etc.) Note: An absence from Unexcused will be practice. school does not excuse CL from the responsibility of benched for 1 game calling the sponsor. Other School Functions 14. CL acting in an unsafe manner as determined by First offense: sponsor. 5 pt. Deduction 1. All CL are encouraged to participate or support the Those not Second offense: CL fund-raising activity which goes to support CL participating will Benched one game. functions/costs. pay for their Third offense: portion from Benched their own funds. 2 games and principal/sponsor review with possible dismissal from the squad. 15. Leaving a cheerleading event early will result in a benching equal to the time missed.

General 1. After a 15-point deduction, the cheerleader will be benched for 1. CL hair will be a natural color. Benched until one game. When games are not an option, sponsors will assign returned to a natural physical activities. (Laps, pull throughs, etc.) If he/she accumulates color. 25 points in different offenses, he/she will be benched for the 2. No visible tattoos, piercings or spacers. Benched until no remainder of the six weeks. After the individual is benched one longer visible. game for accumulating 15 points, the points will continue to be 3. CL will not leave food, trash, or mess in the 2 pt. deduction deducted from the six weeks grade; to accumulate toward the 25 dressing room, practice area, halls, or any point total, and/or possible failure. Injuries: If an injury occurs that performance area. keeps the student out of two practices, a note from the student's 4. CL will not participate in any public display of 5 pt. deduction parent or doctor stating the reason will be required. If the injury affection during school, at school activities or /office referral restricts the student from three or more practices, a doctor's note while wearing the CL uniform. will be required. This note should state the nature of the injury, the 5. CL will follow all school rules and GISD policy, 5 pt. deduction length of time of the restriction, the specific task the student cannot including the dress code. /office referral perform, and any special instructions. Lack of participation will be 6. CL will follow (not agree with) the head CL(s) Benched one qtr. categorized as missing practice if there is no note. instructions at all times at CL activities.

7. CL will respect/respond to all 3 sponsors at all Benched times. Rudeness/insubordination will not be 2. Accumulation of three or more benchings may result in a tolerated. principal/sponsor review which could result in removal from the 8. CL will respect all teacher/staff members at all Benched squad. times. 9. CL will not receive an office referral for any Benched and sponsor 3. Injuries: If an injury occurs that keeps the student out of two reason. & principal or practices, a note from the student's parent or doctor stating the principal designee reason will be required. If the injury restricts the student from three review. or more practices, a doctor's note will be required. This note should 10. CL placed in the Reassignment Room or given out First Offense – state the nature of the injury, the length of time of the restriction, of school suspension for any reason. Benched for next event, Principal/ the specific task the student cannot perform, and any special Sponsor Review, instructions. Lack of participation will be categorized as missing placed on probation practice if there is no note. for duration of school year. Second Offense – 4. Repeated/excessive offenses may result in a sponsor/principal Removal from squad. review. Repeated/excessive is defined as repetition of the same 11. CL receiving an N in conduct from any teacher. Sponsor & principal offense three or more times during the duration of a season. review 12. CL receiving a failing grade for any class. 3-6 wk. probation & sponsor/ principal or Seasons are: principal designee Football--beginning of school until December 1 or the last football review game, whichever is later. Basketball—December 2 until March 1 or the last basketball Summer Camp game, whichever is later. 1. CL will be on time to all camp activities. 5 pt. deduction 2. A CL may not leave the campus with anyone at any Sent home, and Violation of the same rule or guideline three or more times in a time unless approved by the sponsor possible squad season will result in the CL being placed on probation for the remainder of that season. Violation of the probation by further dismissal misconduct could result in dismissal from the squad. 3. CL may not talk to family/friends when engaged in a 5 pt. deduction

squad activity. Absolutely no public display of 4. Any sponsor and principal review of student’s actions may result affection. in dismissal from the squad. 4. CL will respond to both sponsors' directions. No 10 pt. deduction disrespect will be tolerated. 5. Guidelines: these are general rules and guidelines for all GISD CL will follow all NCA/UCA/ACA or other 10 pt. deduction cheerleaders. Failure to comply may at times require judgment calls professional cheerleading association & university to be made. These decisions will be left up to the individual camp rules and respect all staff members. sponsors for each squad. Sponsors reserve the right to upgrade any penalty (immediate benching, office referral) depending on the CL will respect each other and all other squad 5 pt. deduction severity of the situation. members. No taunting/arguments or cursing will be tolerated. Absolutely no smoking, drinking, or illegal Sent home, substances will be tolerated. reported to the principal and possible dismissal from the squad.

2016-17 AACCA School Cheer Safety Rules

Rule changes have are bold type and underlined. For the current version and rule interpretations, visit http://www.aacca.org.

The following rules are written for all elementary, middle school, junior high, and high school cheerleading teams as a minimum standard. Note that elementary, middle school, and junior high programs have a specific set of restricted skills under “F. Tosses”.

A. Glossary Base: A person who is in direct contact with the performing surface and is supporting another person’s weight. Basket Toss: A stunt in which a top person is tossed by bases whose hands are interlocked. Bracer: A top person who is connected to another top person. Braced Flip/Roll: A pyramid in which the top person performs a hip-over-head rotation while in contact with bracers. Cradle: A dismount from a partner stunt, pyramid or toss in which the catch is completed below shoulder height by a base or bases with the top person in a cradle position. Cradle Position: A face-up open-pike position. Cupie/Awesome: A stunt in which both feet of the top person are in one hand of a base. Dive Roll: A forward roll where the feet leave the ground before the hands reach the ground. Downward Inversion: A stunt or pyramid in which an inverted top person’s center of gravity moves toward the performing surface. Drop: Landing on the performance surface from an airborne position. Elevator/Sponge Toss: A stunt in which the top person loads in to an elevator/sponge loading position and is then tossed into the air. Extended Stunt: A stunt in which the entire body of the top person is extended in an upright position over the base(s). Chairs, torches, flatbacks and straddle lifts are examples of stunts where the bases’ arms are extended overhead, but are NOT considered to be extended stunts since the height of the body of the top person is similar to a shoulder level stunt. Flatback: A stunt in which a top person is held face up or face down, in a horizontal position, with their hips and shoulders in alignment. Foldover Stunt: An inverted stunt in which the top person bends at the waist and is caught on his/her back by multiple catchers while one or both of the top person’s ankles/feet remain in the grip of the base(s) (e.g., yo-yo, pancake, etc.) Hanging Pyramid: A pyramid in which the top person’s weight is primarily supported by another top person. Examples of hanging pyramids are: a person being suspended between two shoulder stands; a “whirlybird” stunt where one person’s weight is being supported by the legs of a top person in a shoulder sit; and a “diamond head” where two persons are suspended from one shoulder stand. Helicopter: A stunt in which the top person is tossed into the air in a horizontal position and rotates parallel to the ground in the same motion as a helicopter blade. Inverted: A body position where the shoulders are below the waist.

Loading Position: Bases support a non-extended top person under the foot/feet in preparation for a stunt or toss. Log Roll: A top person in a horizontal position or cradle is popped then twists parallel to the performing surface before being caught by the original base(s) in a horizontal position or a cradle. Pyramid: Connected partner stunts. Post: A person on the performing surface who may assist a top person during a stunt or transition. Prep: A stunt in which one or more bases hold a standing top person at approximately shoulder height. Prep Level: When a top person’s base of support is at approximately shoulder height. Prop: Any object which can be manipulated or used as a base (ex: poms, signs, flags, megaphones, etc.) Quick Toss/Partner Toss: A toss technique where the top person begins the toss with both feet on the ground. Released Pyramid Transition: A pyramid transition in which the top person is connected to a bracer while being released from their bases before being caught in a cradle, stunt or loading position. Release Stunt: A transition from one stunt to another stunt (including loading positions) in which the top person becomes free from all bases, posts and spotters. Spotter: A person who is responsible for assisting or catching the top person in a partner stunt or pyramid. Stunt/Partner Stunt: One or more persons supporting one or more top persons off of the ground. Switch Liberty: A stunt in which the top person begins with one foot on the performing surface, is released from the bases, and then lands in a stunt on the other foot. Suspended Roll: A stunt in which one or more upright bases or posts hold a top person’s hand(s)/arm(s) while the top person performs continuous hip-over-head rotation. Tension Drop: A dismount from a stunt or pyramid where the top person(s) are directed toward the ground while their feet are held by the base(s) until just before the landing. Tick-Tock: A stunt that is held in a static position on one leg, the base(s) takes a downward dip and release the top person as the top person switches the weight to the other leg and lands in a static position on the opposite leg. The dip may or may not pass through prep level before release. Top Person: A person who is not in contact with the performing surface and is being supported or stabilized by another person or has been tossed into the air. Toss: A release stunt in which the base(s) begin underneath the top person’s foot/feet, execute a throwing motion from below shoulder level to increase the height of the top person, and the top person becomes free from all bases, spotters, posts or bracers. Note: This term applies when at least one base is under one or both feet of the top person. For other types of tosses, see “Quick Toss/Partner Toss”. Tumbling: Gymnastic skills that begin and end on the performing surface, including rolls, inverted extended skills (cartwheels, handstands, walkovers, handsprings, etc.), aerials, twists and flips. NOTE: Jumps, leaps and side rolls on the performing surface are not considered to be tumbling.

B. General 1. These rules are to be in effect for all practices, games, competitions and other performances. 2. Cheerleading squads should be placed under the direction of a qualified and knowledgeable coach. 3. All practice sessions should be supervised by the coach and held in a location suitable for the activities of cheerleaders (i.e., use of appropriate mats, away from excessive noise and distractions, etc.).

4. Coaches should recognize a squad's particular ability level and should limit the squad's activities accordingly. "Ability level" refers to the squad's talents as a whole and individuals should not be pressed to perform activities until safely perfected. 5. All cheerleaders should receive proper training before attempting any form of cheerleading gymnastics (tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids and jumps). 6. Professional training in proper spotting techniques should be mandatory for all squads. 7. All cheerleading squads should adopt a comprehensive conditioning and strength-building program. 8. An appropriate warm-up routine should precede all cheerleading activities. 9. Prior to the performance of any skill, the immediate environment for the activity should be taken into consideration including, but not limited to proximity of non-squad personnel, performance surface, lighting and/or precipitation. Technical skills should not be performed on concrete, asphalt, wet or uneven surfaces or surfaces with obstructions. 10. Programs should qualify cheerleaders according to generally accepted teaching progressions. Appropriate spotting should be used until all performers demonstrate proficiency of the skill. 11. All jewelry is prohibited during participation. Religious medals and medical medals are not considered to be jewelry. A religious medal without a chain must be taped and worn under the uniform. A medical alert medal must be taped and may be visible. 12. Supports, braces and soft casts which are unaltered from the manufacturer’s original design/production do not require any additional padding. Supports/braces and supports/braces that have been altered from the manufacturer’s original design/production must be padded with a closed-cell, slow-recovery foam padding no less than one-half inch thick if the participant is involved in partner stunts, pyramids or tosses. A participant wearing a plaster cast or a walking boot must not be involved in partner stunts, pyramids or tosses. 13. Squad members must wear athletic shoes (no gymnastic slippers). 14. When discarding props (signs, etc.) that are made of solid material or have sharp edges/corners, team members must gently toss or place the props so that they are under control. 15. The use of mini-trampolines, springboards, spring-assisted floors or any other height-increasing apparatus is prohibited for competition or performance. These devices may be used for skill development and practice under the supervision of a coach trained in their use.

C. Partner Stunts 1. A spotter is required for any static extended stunt where the top person’s weight is being borne by the base(s). Note: “Show and Go” stunts, where the top person is not in an extended static position, do not require a spotter.* 2. A spotter is required for single base shoulder level stunts in which the feet of the top person are in the hand(s) of the base. (This spotter may assist under the sole of the foot.) 3. In stunts requiring a spotter, a spotter: a. Cannot provide primary support for a top person. Primary support means the majority of the top person’s weight. b. Must be in a position to protect the top person’s head, neck and shoulders when coming off a stunt or pyramid or landing in a cradle. In most stunts this is behind or beside the top person. c. Spotters must have their attention focused on the top person. Momentarily looking away in order to assess environmental safety factors (poms, signs, another stunt, etc.) is allowed as long as their focus returns to the top person. d. May not have their hands behind their back.

e. May not support under the heel or sole of the top person’s foot in a single based extended stunt. They may hold at the ankle of the top person and/or the wrist of the base or any combination thereof. f. May not hold any objects in their hands. 4. The top person cannot travel over another person from Quick Tosses or Partner Tosses. 5. The bases of any extended stunt must have both feet in direct weight-bearing contact with the performing surface. 6. Bases may not: a. Hold any objects in a hand that is supporting the top person. b. Assume a backbend, handstand or headstand position. 7. Partner stunts and pyramids may not pass over, under or through other partner stunts or pyramids. 8. The total number of twists in a dismount or release from a stunt cannot be greater than 1 1/4 rotations. 9. Cradle dismounts from partner stunts shoulder height or above to the original base(s) require an additional spotter in position to protect the head, neck and shoulders of the top person. 10. In all dismounts to catchers who are not the original bases, the following conditions must be met: a. The top person must be cradled by two catchers and a head-and-shoulders spotter/catcher. b. The new catchers must remain close to the original bases. c. The new catchers must be in place and not involved in any other skill when the release is initiated. d. The top person may not perform any skill (twist, toe touch, etc.) following the release. 11. In all cradle dismounts, the top person must not hold props that are made of hard material or have corners or sharp edges. 12. Unless listed below, a release stunt must either be cradled or connected to at least one bracer. a. Helicopters are allowed provided all of the following conditions are met: 1) The top person makes no more than a 180 degree rotation (half-turn). 2) Four bases must be in position during the entire release. 3) There must be a base at the head/shoulder area during the initiation of the toss as well as the catch. 4) The bases are not allowed to change positions during the release. 5) The top person must begin and end in a face up position. 6) The top person cannot perform a twisting skill. b. A log roll is legal provided it does not involve more than one complete rotation and the top person is not in contact with a person in a release stunt. 1) In a single-base log roll, the top person must rotate toward the base and begin and end in a face-up position. 2) In a multi-base log roll, the top person may begin and end in a face-up or face-down position. c. A top person in a vertical position at prep level may be released to a stunt at any level provided the top person remains vertical, and the top person performs no more than 1 ¼ twisting rotations. d. A top person in a horizontal position shoulder height or below or in a cradle may be released to a loading position or stunt shoulder height or below. e. Legal inversion releases under Rule D. 13. Non-braced suspended splits in a transition are allowed provided all of the following conditions are met: a. The top person must have both hands in continuous contact with a post or with both bases’ hands or, b. When transitioning to the split without continuous hand-to-hand contact: 1) There are a total of three bases that support the top person. 2) At least two of the bases must support under the legs of the top person. The third base may support under the legs or make contact with the hands of the top person. 3) The top person must have both hands in contact with bases during the split portion of the transition. 14. Extended Straddle Lifts must have an additional spotter for the head and shoulders of the top person (similar position to a Double-Based Elevator/Extension Prep).

15. Single-based stunts in which the top person is parallel to the performing surface and the bases’ arms are extended must have a continuous spotter at the head and shoulder of the top person. (i.e. Bird, Side T, Single- Based Flatback, etc.) 16. A top person may be moved from a vertical position to a horizontal position (straight body or cradle) provided all the following conditions are met: a. The top person maintains contact with at least one original base or spotter. b. At least two catchers and/or bases catch the upper body of the top person. c. The catchers must be to the side or front of the person(s) moving the top person. d. When the catchers are not the original bases, they remain close to the original bases and must be in place prior to the movement to the horizontal position. e. When the catchers are not the original bases and the top person begins or passes through an extended overhead position, at least three catchers are required. 17. A single-base may not be the only primary support for two extended top persons. EXCEPTION: Double Cupies/Awesomes are allowed. If dismounted to cradles, there must be three people for each top person being cradled. 18. Dismounts to the performing surface from shoulder height or above must have assisted landings. This assistance must be sufficient to slow the momentum of the top person. If the dismount involves a skill (e.g. toe touch, twist, etc.) there must be an additional spotter who may, but is not required to, provide assistance. 19. A swinging stunt is legal provided all the following conditions are met: a. A downward movement is only allowed from below shoulder height. b. The top person is face up. c. The top person begins from the performing surface or a stunt that is below shoulder height. 20. A top person must not be in a face down suspended position between bases in which the top person’s torso is suspended below the arms and legs. 21. Single-based split catches are prohibited. 22. Tension drops are prohibited.

D. Inversions Note: Inversions are partner stunts or pyramids in which the top person has her or his shoulders below the waist. In addition to the following rules, all persons involved in an inversion must follow all rules from the Partner Stunt and Pyramid sections.

1. Unless allowed under the rules in this section, a top person must not be in an inverted position. 2. An inverted top person may pass through an extended position, but must not begin, end, pause, or stop in a static extended inverted position. 3. Suspended rolls are allowed provided: a. Two people on the performing surface control the top person with continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact to a stunt, two-person cradle position, loading position or the performing surface. b. A single base or post controls the top person with continuous hands-to-hands contact to a stunt, two-person cradle position, loading position or the performing surface. c. A single base/post suspended roll that ends on the performing surface requires a spotter. d. If caught in a cradle, load or stunt, the new catchers are in place and are not involved with any other skill when the suspended roll is initiated. e. The feet/ankles of the top person are released. 4. Braced inversions in a pyramid that do not flip are allowed provided the following conditions are met:

a. Braced inversions that release must follow the Release Pyramid Transition rule E-7. NOTE: Braced inversions that do not release are treated just like any other non-released braced stunt and must follow the Pyramid rules E1 – E5. Braced rolls are now in this category. 5. Braced flips in a pyramid are allowed provided all of the following conditions are met: a. The top person begins in a multi-base loading position, stunt, cradle, or on the performing surface. b. The top person maintains continuous hand-to-hand/arm contact with two bracers who are in double base preps with a spotter. Each arm of the top person must be connected to a bracer. c. The top person is not behind the bracers. d. At least three catchers (one base and two spotters or two bases and one spotter) who were the original bases/spotters catch the top person in a loading position, stunt or cradle, or assist the top person to the performing surface. If the flip ends in a cradle, the bracers may release the top person once she/he begins to descend and is no longer inverted. e. The top person ends in a non-inverted position. f. The top person does not perform more than one and one quarter (1¼) flipping rotations and no more than one half (½) twist. g. The bases/catchers remain stationary except as necessary for safety adjustments. 6. In all other inversions: a. A top person in an inverted position on the performing surface may be released to a loading position below prep level. b. Static inversions at prep level require two bases or a base and spotter. The spotter is not required to be in contact with the top person. c. A release transition from a static inverted position to a non-inverted position is allowed provided all of the following conditions are met: 1) The top person lands at or below prep level. 2) The top person does not twist more than ¼ rotation. 3) There is a spotter. d. In inversions where the base of support begins and remains below prep level: 1) At least one base or spotter must be in a position to protect the head/neck of the top person. 2) The base or spotter must maintain contact with the top person’s upper body (waist and above, including arms/hands) until the top person is no longer inverted or his/her hands are on the performing surface. The contact must be sufficient to stabilize/control the top person’s position. e. In inversions where the base of support begins at or passes through prep level: 1) At least two people on the performing surface must be in a position to protect the head/neck of the top person. 2) The bases/spotters must maintain contact with the top person’s upper body (waist and above, including arms/hands) until the top person is no longer inverted or his/her hands are on the performing surface. The contact must be sufficient to stabilize/control the top person’s position. EXCEPTION: A foldover stunt that begins at or below prep level and does not stop in an extended position is allowed without initial upper body contact. 3) The top person must not go directly to an inverted position on the performance surface from a prep or higher. f. When the stunt begins in an inversion and goes to a non-inverted position, the upper body contact may be released before the top person is no longer inverted. g. Dismounts from inverted stunts to a cradle or an upright position on the performing surface are allowed provided the top person begins in a static or “pump and go” position (i.e., handstand) and does no more than 1/4 turn. Dismounts to the performing surface from shoulder height or above must follow Rule C-18. 7. An inverted top person must not hold objects (poms, signs, etc.) in his/her hands. EXCEPTION: During a transition from an inverted position on the performing surface to a non-inverted stunt, a top person can hold objects.

E. Pyramids Note: In addition to these specific pyramid rules, all persons and stunts involved in a pyramid must follow all rules from the Partner Stunt and Inversion sections.

1. The top person in a pyramid must receive primary support from a base or be connected to a bracer who is on a base. 2. A bracer may not support a majority of a top person’s weight. 3. In pyramids where one static extended stunt braces another static extended stunt, the connection must be hand/arm to hand/arm. 4. Partner stunts and pyramids may not pass over, under or through other partner stunts or pyramids. 5. If a person in a pyramid is used to brace the foot/leg of an extended stunt, that brace must not be supporting a majority of the top person's weight. (To demonstrate this, the foot of the top person’s braced leg must be at or above the knee of their supporting leg.) 6. Hanging pyramids must have a continuous spotter for each shoulder stand involved in suspending another person. Hanging pyramids are not allowed to rotate. 7. In a Released Pyramid Transition the following rules apply: a. The skills before and after the release must be legal, including the required spotters. b. The top person must be in hand/arm to hand/arm contact with at least one bracer during the entire transition. c. The top person and each bracer must have a separate spotter. EXCEPTION: Bracers in shoulder sits and thigh stands do not require a spotter. d. The top person may not be supporting his or her weight on any other body part of the person(s) assisting (i.e. Shoulders of the bracer). e. The released top person and bases make no more than a ¼ turn around the bracer in a continuous movement in which the top person remains above the original base(s).The top person must be continuous in motion and cannot be supported so that they pause during the transition. f. The bracers are at prep level or below and do not provide primary support for the top person. g. The top person must be caught by original bases.

For braced inversion pyramids, see Rule D.

F. Tosses The rules in this section only apply to tosses where someone is under a foot, e.g. basket tosses, elevator/sponge tosses, toe pitch tosses. 1. All tosses in this section are prohibited for Elementary, Middle School, and Junior High cheerleading teams. 2. In all tosses: a. No more than four tossers are allowed. b. Must be caught in a cradle. 1) The cradle must include at least three of the original tossers. 2) One of the catchers must be at the head and shoulders. c. The toss may not be directed so that the bases must travel to catch the top person. (The bases can turn/rotate under the toss.) d. The top person must not land in an inverted position. e. The top person may not hold any objects (poms, signs, etc.) during the toss. f. The top person cannot travel over or under another person or through a prop. g. The total number of twists cannot be greater than one and one quarter rotations.

EXCEPTION: Switch Liberties (also called Giddy Up or Tick Up) are allowed.

G. Tumbling and Jumps 1. Dive rolls are prohibited. 2. Flips greater than one rotation are prohibited. 3. Twists greater than one rotation are prohibited. 4. A forward three-quarter flip to the seat or knees is prohibited. 5. Tumbling or rebounding over, onto, or under a stunt, person or prop is illegal. EXCEPTIONS: a) Cartwheels, rolls and walkovers with poms or over a person are allowed. b) Aerials and standing back tucks with poms are allowed.* (Back handsprings with poms are still prohibited.) 6. A flip that lands in a partner stunt or cradle is prohibited. (Example : A back flip from a tumbling pass into a cradle is prohibited. However, rebounding from a back handspring into a cradle is allowed.) 7. Landings for all jumps must bear weight on at least one foot. (Example : A toe touch jump to the seat, knees, or landing with both feet back, or to a push-up position are prohibited.) 8. Knee drops are prohibited without first bearing weight on the hands. 9. Drops to a prone position (i.e. pushup) on the performing surface are illegal. 10. Airborne skills without hip over-head rotation may not jump from a standing or squatting position backwards onto your neck, shoulders and hands. (This rule only refers to a type of entrance into the “kip-up/rubber band” skill.)

H. Specific Surface Restrictions 1. The following skills are only allowed on a mat, grass or rubberized track surface. a. Basket tosses, elevator/sponge tosses and other similar multi-base tosses. b. Partner stunts in which the base uses only one arm to support the top person. c. Twisting tumbling skills (Arabians, full twisting layouts, etc.). EXCEPTION: Cartwheels, roundoffs and aerial cartwheels are allowed on surfaces other than a mat, grass or rubberized track.

Copies of these guidelines should be distributed to all squad members and any administrators involved with the cheerleading program. All guidelines should be understood and accepted by all parties involved in the cheerleading program including coaches, assistants, squad members, parents, and administrators. The above safety guidelines are general in nature and are not intended to cover all circumstances. All cheerleading gymnastics including tumbling, partner stunts, pyramids and jumps should be carefully reviewed and supervised by a qualified adult coach. Cheerleading jumps, gymnastics and stunts may involve height and inversion of the body and there is an inherent risk of injury involved with any athletic activity. While the use of these guidelines in coordination with the AACCA Safety Course will help minimize the risk of injury, the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators makes no warranties or representations, either expressed or implied, that the above guidelines will prevent injuries to individual participants. For more information, visit AACCA.org. If you have questions regarding a specific rule, contact us at 800-533-6583.

Summary of the 2016-17 AACCA School Rules Changes

Partner Stunts:

C1. Spotters are now only required to be in position for extended static stunts, in other words, when the top stops extended and the bases are bearing the top person’s weight. In “Show and Go” style stunts, the top is not balancing in the extended position. This rule change will allow the spotters in Show and Go stunts that 1/2 around to an extended stunt to be in the proper position for the ending extended stunt without requiring an additional spotter behind the initial Show and Go. *Note that this is an AACCA-only rule. At this time, the NFHS has not adopted this rule.

C12. The previous “low to high tick tock” release rule has been revised to allow other vertical releases from prep level. The rule still requires that the top person remain vertical and that the release is initiated from prep level, not from a load or from an extended stunt. The stunt may land in a load, prep level or extended. The difference is that the top may now start on one or both feet and may land on one or both feet. This rule change allows for better progression into the tick tock release. The top may twist during the release as before. This rule change clarifies that any twist during the release is limited to 1 1/4 twists. AACCA will interpret “vertical” as “most of the entire body is vertical”. Examples of allowed body positions are: standing, liberty, heel stretch, arabesque, “X” position (as in releasing from single base in hands and dropping to a vertical straddle position.) Positions which are not considered to be vertical include seated or “V” positions, even If the upper body is vertical.

C13-b. In transitions from a stunt to a split position, the previous rule requiring four bases has been changed to three bases.

C18. In dismounts to the performing surface that involve a skill, there must still be at least two people (bases or spotters) in position to assist the top person, but only one is required to assist the top. This rule allows the secondary catcher to assist by catching the top person’s waist, elbow, upper arm, the base’s hand, or not assist if not needed without getting a penalty.

Inversions:

D4 and 5 Braced Rolls: Braced rolls no longer require two bracers in double based preps. They are now viewed as any other pyramid, like braced inversions, and are subject to the general pyramid rules. Since they are a pyramid transition that is not released, they can be braced on one side, that brace doesn’t have to be hand/arm, the bracer is not required to be in any specific skill, and the bracer is not required to have a spotter. This rule change will allow teams with fewer members to perform pyramids such as braced flatback roll-ups and braced pancakes using as few as six members.

D5 Braced Flips: Two bracers are still required and must be double based preps with spotters. However, these bracers are no longer required to be on opposite sides of the top person being flipped. Both arms of the top person must still be connected to a bracer. This will allow other bracer positions, such as one bracer behind the top person and one bracer beside the top person.

D6-c: A static inversion, such as a handstand or shoulder inversion at prep level, may release to a stunt at prep level or below. This release requires a spotter. With this rule change, an inversion may now be released to a prep, load, cradle, or the ground. An inversion may not release to an extended position without being braced.

D6-f: During inversions that are transitioning to a non-inverted position, the upper body can be released by the bases prior to the top person becoming non-inverted. This rule change allows safe performance of these skills without being called on a technicality.

D6-g: Dismounts from inversions may make up to 1/4 twist. This 1/4 twist is also allowed in releases from inversions to stunts (D6-c) and will improve transition options during these skills.

Pyramids:

E3: All extended stunts may now brace each other, including Liberties. There is a requirement that the bracing is a hand/arm to hand/arm brace, which means that Paper Dolls may be performed, but only if each Liberty is connected to the other Liberty’s arm/wrist. The bracer cannot be holding the connected Liberty’s leg.

Tumbling and Jumps:

G5-b: A participant may hold poms during back tucks and aerials. *Note that this is an AACCA-only rule. At this time, the NFHS has not adopted this rule.