I learned a long time ago that things run their course, things change, and as challenges are met and overcome, the conversation changes also. At times like that, it’s important to realize it’s time to move on, time to take a bow and walk off the stage, time to gear up for the next challenge.
My policy blog began in the early stages of dreaming about a new, state-wide policy in Texas regarding students returning to school while recovering from concussions, or other brain injuries. I discussed the need for students everywhere who were recovering from concussions to be given academic, social, and emotional accommodations upon their Return to School (RTS). I articulated that this need was as true in Texas, as it was in Maine, as it was in Alaska, as it was in Oregon. And toward the goal of instituting post-concussion RTS protocols in Texas, I helped start a conversation.
That conversation spread among people who were able to do something about it. That conversation spurred thoughts, discussions, analysis, awareness, and calls to action. After those calls to action, language was considered to make the guidance on the Texas RTS protocols clear and as easily implemented as possible.
Inspired leaders in Austin stood in the Capitol and advocated for students who were recovering from concussions, until, finally, all the intangible processes were revealed in powerful statutory language. After passing unanimously in the Texas Senate and House, the Governor signed it into law. Done. From the initial dream to the pages of the Texas statutes, students in Texas recovering from concussions are one step closer to a full recovery.
And so, this also marks the end of my policy blog journey. It feels great to be going out with such an incredible policy win for students in Texas, and I give the biggest shout outs to those people who made this happen. It has been a fun ride, but now, for my policy blog, it’s time to sign off.
Since this is my final policy blog post, I want to thank you for taking the time to read it and for considering my policy messages over the past year and a half. Most importantly, thanks for all that you did to make the new RTS policy a reality in Texas, even if it was just reading and considering the ideas I presented. Every little bit helps, and when it does, society becomes a better place.
With that being said, however, I’m not going away; I’m just shifting focus. I will continue to write about CBIRT’s incredible work in Texas and will likely transition into subject matter far removed from policy implementation, but equally, if not more, important. CBIRT is leading the way in helping students, and others, recovering from brain injuries. It is meaningful work for the greater good, and I plan on being a part of that journey for a long time to come. Stay tuned.
