Dayton Public Schools hopes to ‘increase safety’ with new athletic event policy

DAYTON — Dayton Public School students were the first to experience the district’s new safety plan for sporting events Thursday night.

The district hopes it will make things safer.

Now, all students from DPS and visiting districts must have their student ID to enter any event. Any other attendees who appear to be under the age of 21 must show ID to enter.

Additionally, all DPS middle and high school students can enter sporting events for free with their badge and QR code “as long as they are in good standing academically and behaviorally,” the district announced Thursday.

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If students don’t have their QR code, then they must pay $5 to enter. Their student ID will still be required.

The district will also require all non-DPS attendees to sit on the visitor for non-conference games.

At the Dunbar-Belmont game Thursday night, students dealt with the new changes for the first time.

Melvin Eslick’s grandson plays for Dunbar High School.

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“I don’t have no problem with that, to be honest with you. A lot of the kids they should, parents should be accompanied with them before they enter the game,” he said.

Asiah Hughes’ son plays for Dunbar, she said it’s unfortunate the rules have to be put in place, but thinks it’s a good idea overall.

“I think it’s a good idea. I think that we all as parents hope that we can send our kids out to a function and they know how to act. I think all of us as parents, you know, it’s kind of a pity that it has to end up like this. But I think it’s best,” Hughes said.

The district said parents and students should call 937-542-4070 or email jtolliver@daytonpublic.com if they have questions about the measures.

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