Oklahoma legislators are on the move to tighten the reins on school athletic programs, as Sen. George Burns, R-Pollard, spearheads the effort with the introduction of Senate Bill 365. It seems the state is looking to level up the oversight game by expanding the State Board of Education's authority, a shift that intends to up the ante on certification and disciplinary measures for head coaches.

With stakes high in the realm of school sports, the bill outlines an expanded rulebook on issuing and revoking certifications for head coaches, walking newly added tightropes of professionalism and leadership within these programs. Burns, in casually speaking about the impact of SB 365, explained to oksenate.gov, "This legislation will help to uphold the integrity of our sports programs and ensure that every student receives the guidance and mentorship they deserve."

The bill defines a "head coach" with clarity offered to the position, serving as the primary individual hired by a school district responsible for diving into the responsibility of overseeing and directing students in athletic activities.

As for the timeline, SB 365 is hot off the press and ready for legislative rumination. The community, with its stakeholders ranging from parents over their heads in concern to education advocates eager for change, now watches as the bill stands are available for consideration by the power players of Oklahoma's law-making machinery. It seems the next few moves will shape how the proverbial ball plays out on behalf of student-athletes in the state's district schools. Burns added, with an eye on the wider horizon, "SB 365 is a step toward ensuring that our school athletic programs are led by qualified professionals who are committed to the safety and development of our students."