Thank you for your interest in obtaining a coaching authorization in the state of Iowa. As an approved training program, we are committed providing you the necessary training to obtain the Iowa coaching authorization and ensure that all applicants meet the necessary qualifications and requirements.

To become a coach in Iowa's public schools, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Complete a concussion training course that is approved by the Iowa Department of Education.
   1. Link to approved Concussion Course
3. Obtain a CPR training certificate from an approved provider.
   1. Link to review CPR training approved providers
4. Complete a 55-hour workshop course from an approved provider or college coursework that includes the following content:

• Structure and function of the human body
• Prevention and care of athletic injuries
• Human growth and development
• Theory, methods, and ethics of coaching

The workshop course can be completed through an approved provider or through college coursework. Approved providers include the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA), the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU), and colleges and universities that offer coaching authorization courses that are approved by the Iowa BOEE.

Once you have met these requirements, you must apply for a coaching authorization through the Iowa BOEE. The application process includes completing an application form, submitting transcripts and certificates of completion for the required coursework, and passing an exam that covers coaching techniques, sports psychology, safety, and first aid.

After you have been approved for a coaching authorization, you must maintain your authorization by completing ongoing professional development and training. This typically involves completing additional coaching courses and workshops.

We hope this information helps you understand the process of obtaining a coaching authorization in the state of Iowa. If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us for more information.

Why do you want to become a coach? What is your vision for impacting the lives of your athletes and building a winning team culture? Think about how you can use your unique gifts and talents to inspire and lead others towards success. Remember, being a coach isn't just about winning games, it's about making a positive difference in the lives of those you lead. So, what's your why?" Write your response in the student comments:

Concussion Introduction:

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur in high school sports and other physical activities. They are often caused by a blow or jolt to the head, but can also result from a fall or other type of impact that causes the brain to move back and forth inside the skull. Concussions can range from mild to severe and can have both short-term and long-term effects on a student's health and well-being.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury that occurs when the brain is jostled or shaken inside the skull. This can cause chemical changes in the brain and can damage brain cells. Concussions can affect a student's cognitive abilities, such as memory and concentration, as well as their physical abilities, such as balance and coordination.

What Happens to the Brain? How Common are Concussions?

When a concussion occurs, the brain may experience swelling, bleeding, or a disruption in its normal electrical activity. Concussions are a common occurrence in high school sports, with an estimated 3.8 million sports-related concussions occurring each year in the United States.

Signs & Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a concussion can vary from student to student, but may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, memory loss, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in mood or behavior. It is important for coaches, parents, and students to be aware of these symptoms and to take appropriate action if a concussion is suspected.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention? What Should I Do If a Concussion is Suspected?

If a student experiences any of the symptoms of a concussion, they should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. In some cases, a concussion can be a life-threatening injury and emergency medical attention should be sought immediately. If a concussion is suspected, the student should be removed from play and evaluated by a healthcare professional trained in concussion management.

What Can Happen if a Student Plays With a Concussion?

Playing with a concussion can be dangerous and can lead to serious health consequences, including prolonged recovery time, long-term cognitive impairment, and even death. In addition, students who continue to play with a concussion may be at risk for second impact syndrome, which occurs when the brain swells rapidly and catastrophically after a second concussion.

Returning to Activity

Returning to activity after a concussion should be done in a gradual and controlled manner under the guidance of a healthcare professional trained in concussion management. Students should not return to play until they are symptom-free and have received medical clearance to do so.

How Can I Help Keep Students Safe?

Coaches, parents, and students can take steps to help prevent concussions by following safety guidelines and using appropriate equipment. Coaches should also be trained in concussion management and have a plan in place for managing concussions if they occur. By working together, we can help keep students safe and reduce the risk of concussion in high school sports.

CPR Introduction:

As part of the requirements for obtaining the Iowa Coaching Authorization, coaches are required to hold a CPR training certificate from an approved provider. The American Heart Association, American Red Cross, American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI), National Safety Council (NSC), and Medic First Aid are all approved providers of CPR training for Iowa coaches.

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a life-saving technique used when a person's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. CPR involves chest compressions and rescue breaths, and is an essential skill for coaches to have in case of an emergency.

The approved CPR training certificate course covers a range of topics such as recognizing when CPR is necessary, how to perform chest compressions and rescue breaths, and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) device. CPR training courses are typically a combination of lecture, hands-on practice, and assessment.

Obtaining an approved CPR training certificate is an important step for coaches to take in order to ensure the safety of their student athletes and be prepared to act in the event of an emergency.

Here is the list of approved CPR Courses from the IBOEE

American Red Cross

American Heart Association

American Safety & Health Institute (AHSI)

National Safety Council

IDHS Mandatory Reporter Training Introduction:

As a coach in Iowa, it is important to be aware of the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) Mandatory Reporter Requirements. Under Iowa law, certain professionals, including coaches, are considered mandatory reporters of child abuse and neglect. This means that if a coach has reason to believe that a child is being abused or neglected, they are legally obligated to report their suspicions to the appropriate authorities.

The DHS Mandatory Reporter Requirements define child abuse and neglect as any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caregiver that results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation, or imminent risk of harm to a child. Examples of abuse or neglect may include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and abandonment.

Mandatory reporters are required to make a report to the Iowa Department of Human Services by phone or in writing as soon as possible, but no later than 24 hours after becoming aware of the suspected abuse or neglect. Failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect can result in legal consequences.

It is important for coaches to receive training on the DHS Mandatory Reporter Requirements in order to understand their legal obligations and how to make an appropriate report if necessary. Coaches should also be aware that they are protected from civil or criminal liability for making a good faith report of suspected child abuse or neglect.

Iowa Department of Health & Human Services

AEA Online Learning System