InTucker Magazine

Elementary Athletics at DCSD

Is your young student ready to make their foray into the world of school sports? DeKalb County School District’s new Elementary Athletic Program allows fourth and fifth grade students’ participation in several sports, including fall track and field and soccer; winter competitive dance and basketball; and spring flag football. DCSD Elementary Athletics will teach your child the rules of the game, collaborative skills, healthy competition and responsibility.

A study by the University of Chicago shows that participation in school sports may be associated with higher academic achievement and positive self-esteem (Wretman, 2017). It serves as an additional avenue by which to promote child development. DCSD’s new opportunities for early sports engagement allow students to build their foundations for athletic success throughout their academic careers.

Children who wish to participate must maintain at least a “C” grade average and have a current physical on file. There are no try-outs for sports; all students who register during the registration period will be involved. Students are not limited to participation in a single sport, and track and field and soccer seasons do not overlap, so students may participate in both sports provided they were registered during the summer.

Team practices will take place after school two days a week. Coaches will select their team’s practice days, but practice will never fall on Fridays. All games will be held on Saturdays. All equipment will be provided by DCSD except for shoes, spikes and cleats, which are not required. Parents will be responsible for their child’s transportation to and from practices, but the county will provide transportation to and from schools for games.

Are you a parent interested in helping with the Elementary Athletic Program? Parent volunteers are welcome. You may reach out to your school’s athletic coordinator for required training and a background check.

The DeKalb County School District Elementary Athletic Program follows the safety guidelines set by the Georgia High School Association and the district.

Registration for elementary basketball is currently open and closes October 29: bit.ly/4gTp8pT

You can keep up with what’s happening in all DeKalb County School Elementary Athletics by following their social media pages at @DCSDEAthletics on X and @DCSDAthletics on Instagram. The DCSD Facebook page will also post important updates like registration deadlines and season schedules. For more information on the Elementary Athletic Program or to register your elementary student, visit dcsdea.org.